The War of Two Queens

Casteel, still consumed by hunger, violently lashes out when he awakens. Malik and Kieran struggle to restrain him while Poppy uses her powers to heal him. The healing calms him, but Casteel refuses to feed from her, fearing he might hurt her in the process. Poppy cuts herself anyway and forces him to feed on her blood.

His hunger and bloodlust subside as he feeds, and the healing continues. However, the intensity of the moment shifts from desperation to desire, and the two of them have sex. At the climax, Casteel says they will never be separated again.

As Poppy helps Casteel bathe, he listens to her recount what happened during his absence, including Isbeth’s revelations. He grapples with the guilt of not being there for her and being helpless during his captivity. Poppy reassures him, telling him he doesn’t always have to be strong around her. Casteel admits that he isn’t fully healed emotionally but knows he will be with her. The conversation takes a lighthearted, teasing turn as they talk about their future together, including the possibility of having children.

However, beneath their affectionate banter, he struggles with the knowledge that he has to tell Poppy about her sister, Millicent, and the warning that she will die in his arms.