Theodore was staying on the edge of town, so Felix drove us there. The ride was quiet, a familiar quiet with Felix after years of companionship. Upon arrival, I was surprised to find a small, ordinary house nestled in a typical neighborhood. Its inconspicuous location allowed Theo to move about town easily.

"Did you think we wouldn't find a good place to hide him? We don't want Warwick getting to him," Felix said as we exited the car. Theo greeted us at the door.

"Azalea, Felix, to what do I owe the pleasure?" he asked calmly.

"Hello, Theo. I wanted to discuss something with you. Would you mind if we came in?" I replied.

"Certainly," he said, leading us into a small living room.

"Felix, I hope you and Lacey are getting along well," Theo said, settling into a plush armchair. I sat on the couch while Felix stood beside me. He nodded, and I laughed.

"He's very excited about the puppy," I told Theo. I glanced at Felix and thought I saw a blush on his cheeks.

"I'm sure it's exhilarating," Theodore said. "So, what brings you all the way out here?"

I retrieved a watch box from my bag. "I was about to call when Lyssa arrived, so I apologize for any interruption," I began. "I recently acquired an item I believe to be enchanted. I wondered if you knew anything about it."

I opened the box, showing him the watch. He leaned forward as I extended it. He examined it for a moment.

"There's an inscription on the back and a note under the watch," I pointed out. He removed the watch, inspecting the back before reading the note.

"Hmmm," he murmured. I waited anxiously.

"So, any ideas?" I asked.

"I'm afraid not, though I've seen similar items," he said. "It was definitely enchanted. My guess is the incantation grants the user parity with their opponent."

"But what does that mean? How could it make you equal?" I asked.

"I can't say specifically. It likely depends on the intent behind the enchantment," he explained.

"How can I find out more?" I asked, hoping he'd suggest a witch, as Robert at the bank had.

"I suggest finding a witch. Finding the original enchanter may be impossible, but a skilled witch might decipher the magic. Do you know where it came from?"

"I received it from Mr. Greyback, the inn's former owner, in his will," I explained.

"Ah, then tracing its origins may be impossible. You should contact a witch," he said, handing me back the watch.

"I thought you might say that," I said. "You don't happen to know any?"

Theo laughed. "I've proven resourceful, but no, I don't know any witches. They're far rarer than werewolves and vampires."

I deflated. I had no other ideas. While curious about the watch, I desperately wanted to contact Warwick.

"Ahem," Felix cleared his throat. "Luna?"

"Yes?" I said, turning to him, considering my next steps.

"I may know a witch who could help," he said. I stared at my bodyguard in confusion.

"How?" I asked. Felix was usually concise, but this warranted an explanation. He'd been with Blood Eclipse and me for nearly a decade. When had he encountered a witch?

"My first mate was a witch," he explained. "I still have contact information for some of her colleagues."

My eyebrows shot up. "Really?" I asked. He nodded. "Do you think any would be willing to meet with me?"

"I can make a call," he said.

"Felix, I'd greatly appreciate that," I said. He indicated the box. I held it up, and he took it, photographing the watch and quickly typing on his phone.

He returned the watch, and I smiled gratefully. "Thank you, Felix."

"Well, Luna," Theo said, "I'm sorry I couldn't be of more help."

I stood. "That's alright, Theo. I had to explore all possibilities. I hope you're comfortable here."

"Yes," he said, smiling faintly. "It's a better place to spend my remaining days. I'd rather be here than running from those who know of my cooperation with you."

"Wait," I said. "What do you mean?"

Theo laughed. "You must have realized. My kin will perish when your mate kills my sire. Cut off the head, and the body dies."

"I didn't realize. Theodore, there must be a way I can help you!" Without his assistance, Damien could die, leaving us without a fully trained vampire army.

"I appreciate that, dear girl, but I've lived a full life. If I'm going, at least I helped stop some evil," he said. His smile didn't reach his eyes.

"Theodore…" I whispered.

"I am at peace with this decision, or I wouldn't have helped your mate. Please, don't fret over an old vampire," he said.

I swallowed and nodded. "Alright," I said.

"It's probably time for you to return to your pack. Thank you for visiting, and I hope you find a witch to help with the watch." Theo offered his hand. I shook it, then hugged him.

Felix and I left, returning to the packhouse. Silence filled the car, but now a heaviness hung in the air. I worried about Theo and the consequences of Warwick's demise. I sensed something troubled Felix, but couldn't guess what.