The Rings of Eden (Chapter 4)
Title: The Rings of Eden
Characters: Lorin Westerly, Christopher Westerly, Kara Morrigan and Alexander James (These characters have been created by me)
Rating: PG (for right now)
Disclaimer: This is my story. The idea was created by me. If you want to ever use the characters must ask permission first.
Summary: Lorin has had it tough the past three years since her brother's death. Not even her best friend Kara has been able to help her fully get over it. Lorin starts getting warnings in her dreams and ends up finding out a secret about her family's history. Who said vampires aren't real?
Candles lit the way through the numerous tunnels below the cemetery. It was like an entire different world. The dirt walls had eventually become stone. Paintings hung every few feet depicting different scenes, all by various artists. Lorin felt like they had been walking for hours. She could have never imagined that this place existed. As they walked, Christopher and Alexander told Kara and Lorin of how the council that helped govern the covens came to be. The Elders had been chosen by Aurelia and Aetelius. They had sired them, wanting help in building their kingdom of undead. Each Elder had been considered a wise man in their own time. And since Aurelia and Aetelius had respect for each of them, they were given a choice whether to be changed or not. Those who refused were killed to keep the secret safe. Seven had been changed, there were only three Elders left. Damien throughout the centuries had killed the others, so now the Elders were hidden below the city of New Castle where they had stayed for half a millennium. Hidden from all except for those who needed to know their location. Eventually, Christopher, Kara, Alexander and Lorin had reached an end to the winding paths. Two pillars stood on each side of a marble door with ornate carvings.
Kara stepped forward, her fingers tracing the etchings. “It’s beautiful.”
Christopher turned to his sister, cupping her face between his hands. “The Elders are beyond these doors. They’ve been expecting you and they’ve given Kara permission to be in there with you. Alexander and I will be here when you’re finished. You’ll be okay, Lorin.”
Taking a deep breath, Lorin nodded. She looked to Kara, who she knew was scared, but was trying to be strong for her friend. Coming to stand in front of the door, Lorin took one last look at Alexander and Christopher before pushing it open, stepping inside, with Kara right behind her.
The room they had entered wasn’t something she had expected. The beautiful stonework and detailed decorations were nowhere to be seen. To Lorin it was almost like a cave. Walls of dirt, with water leaking from the ceiling, but oddly there was a breeze causing the flames on the wicks of the candles to dance. Kara and Lorin stood in the middle of the room, realizing that they were surrounded. Seven marble chairs encircled them, yet only three were taken. The eyes of the Elders were on them. Each had hair of pure white, dressed in exquisite fabrics made of bright colors Words were written on the back of their seats, which Lorin came to realize were names.
“Lorin, Kara...we are honored by your presence.”
Both women turned to their left to the Elder vampire who had spoken. His white hair was long, but tied back in a braid. The shroud that was wrapped around his body was a deep red. “My name is Caelen.”
“Thank you. My brother has told me of my fate and Alexander has given me what information he could. I was told you would have more details, more answers to the questions that I have.”
One dressed in a royal blue stood, his white hair short, but his beard was long. “We will give you what you seek as well as guidance.” He then bowed. “I am Alaric.”
“And my name is Declan.” The one who had spoken this time was clad in a violet colored robe. “The human has been having visions,” he added. “You want to know why.”
Kara nodded as she replied. “Yes.”
“Of course, my dear.” Caelen smiled warmly. “You aren’t as normal as you think. The Morrigan line has been around for four centuries. Your family moved from Salem to escape persecution. For witches are as real as vampires and your family has magic running through their veins. With some its apparent they have powers from birth, others have the power suppressed. You have great power, child and it will be even greater so once you learn to control it. The power of premonition is a dangerous gift. If Damien finds out he will use you to his advantage. You must be careful.”
“I will,” Kara answered.
“You will study with me,” said Alaric. “I will help you understand the gift you were given.”
Nodding in response, Kara looked to Lorin, who seemed deep in thought, but before she could say anything, Declan spoke.
“You should not be afraid, your highness.”
“I’m trying not to be,” replied Lorin.
Alaric chuckled. “You’re failing miserably, princess.”
Closing her eyes, her grip on Kara’s hand tightened. “I just want answers. I already know about Aurelia and Aetelius, but what happened to them? What about my parents? Who exactly is Damien Sylis and why the hell does he want to kill my family? And what is so special about the Rings of Eden.”
“They hold Aurelia’s powers.” Kara was the one who answered, much to Lorin’s surprise. Noticing her best friend’s shocked expression, she looked at the Elders. “Christopher told me, but he didn’t go into much detail.”
Frustrated, Lorin sighed. “I’m glad everyone seems to be keeping me informed.” Kara gave her an apologetic look, but brought her attention back to the Elders when Caelen started speaking again.
“Lady Kara is correct. The rings you and Prince Christopher wear hold Aurelia’s powers. Every ounce of power that ever flowed through her body. When she and Aetelius decided they no longer wanted to rule over the covens, they passed the rings to their son Zane and their daughter Desdemona. Feeling she had no use for her powers now and wanting to protect her children at all costs, Aurelia secured her magic into the rings Aetelius had created for them. Unfortunately, no one knows exactly how to access the power. There’s never been a reason for it to be used before this. Damien is more powerful then ever. He’s causing unrest among the covens promising to share the power of the rings with all of them.”
“If Damien gains possession of the Rings of Eden,” Declan added, “The order we have spent centuries creating and preserving will be destroyed. He wants the humans to know we exist, to be our slaves. He doesn’t believe in maintaining a balance.”
“Hell on Earth,” whispered Kara.
Alaric nodded. “With Damien ruling as the Devil himself.”
================
Christopher tossed a few rocks down the hallway. It was so quiet the sound of the stones hitting the walkway echoed loudly. He and Alexander waited outside of the council room for the girls. Part of him wondered what was being said in there, but he knew most of it. He’d been given the speech, the stories when he’d changed. At least Lorin would understand it before she turned. Christopher noticed Alexander staring at the marble doors and he smirked.
“Is that concern I see on your face, Alexander?”
His gaze remained on the doors when he answered. “I was enjoying the silence.”
“You,” Christopher said, throwing a rock at his bodyguard, “have feelings for my sister.”
This time Alexander’s eyes met the prince’s. “Tread lightly Christopher.”
“You can’t hide it, although you’re trying awfully hard to. Lorin feels something for you, too. I can sense it when she looks at you.”
“Because you’re the only friend I’ve had in my seven hundred and thirty two years, I’m going to warn you. Leave it be.”
The seriousness in his expression startled Christopher. For the first time, he saw sadness in Alexander, who was trained to not become emotionally attached to anyone, to never feel pain. It was that moment that the prince realized the soldier was in love with the princess. Christopher thought it was very poetic and respecting Alexander’s wishes, he didn’t bring it up again.
“I’m in love with, Kara,” Christopher said suddenly.
“You’re awfully sentimental today, your highness. Shall I go find you a box of tissues?” Alexander mocked.
Christopher’s eyes turned silver. “It’s you who should tread lightly now.”
“You should tell her,” Alexander replied, but then said nothing more about it. He turned his gaze back to the marble door in front of him, his mind filling with thoughts of Princess Lorin.
=================
The Elders sat quietly, patiently waiting for the princess to say what was on her mind. She had stood there in silence for some time, taking in their words. Kara walked to the unoccupied stone chairs reading the names of the Elders who had passed, who Damien had killed.
“What happened to Aurelia and Aetelius?” Lorin questioned.
“Murdered,” Caelen answered. “Damien had been the one to do it. You see, Damien had become friends with Aetelius. This was after Zane and Desdemona had already been ruling for three hundred years. They were practically brothers, but Damien had fallen in love with Aurelia. When she refused his advances, he plotted his revenge. Damien convinced Aetelius to change him, not foreseeing the betrayal that was to come. The night after he had turned, Damien went into the room of Aurelia and Aetelius, murdering them. He had escaped before anyone knew what happened. Zane and Desdemona, of course had their soldiers search the lands for him, but it was as if he disappeared. Damien continued to hide until he had built his own force. Changing anyone he thought useful, trying to build his own empire. He eventually came back, but Zane and Desdemona had already had their children and had already been blessed with grandchildren. Knowing what was to happen, the Rings of Eden had been passed down to their grandchildren, Draven and Isis, who were then shipped off with a group of others to these lands. It was here in New Castle they settled and here we’ve stayed.”
“Eventually, Damien realized where we had gone and followed with those who call him royalty. He’s been killing your family for years and now its only you and Christopher. We never thought he would be able to accomplish it, but he did. Thankfully, the rings have always been passed before. And then Damien has to hunt again for them. It delays it for some time, but he still finds away,” Alaric continued.
“So, my parents. It was him?” Lorin looked each Elder in the eye, they all nodded in response. “All this because Aurelia wouldn’t love him?”
“I don’t think it was ever love. Being a close confidant of Aetelius, he knew the power she once possessed,” Declan replied. “When he found out what they were, he wanted it. Power. Control. Damien has always been evil. He’s not capable of love. He figured if he could make Aurelia love him, he could convince her to take back the rings from her children and give them to him.”
“Wow,” Kara muttered. “Just wow.”
Lorin’s head was pounding. She brought her fingers to her temples, rubbing slowly. “This...all of this is beyond incredible. But,” she said meeting the stares of the Elders, “I will do what I have to do to keep the Rings of Eden safe. To keep Aurelia’s power safe.”
The three Elders bowed before the princess. Declan then walked towards the corner of the room, grabbing an antique chest. He stood before Lorin and opened the lid. Inside was a book that had to have been as old as the Elders’ themselves. Alaric took the book from the chest, handing it to Lorin as Caelen rested a hand gently on the princess’ shoulder. “Take this book with you and look at it with your brother. We shall see you again soon.”
================
Alexander sat on the rooftop of Lorin's apartment, his eyes watching the darkness. He could sense the impending sunrise and wished it would come quickly. Lorin would be safer in the daylight. There was a time when protecting the blood line was a duty, but now it was something more. He was in love with the princess and he'd come to think of the prince as a brother. In all his years, Alexander had been able to remain emotionless and unattached. Even what memories he had retained from his mortal life reflected how impassive he once was. To be completely honest, Alexander had been an arrogant, self centered bastard. There were times when he still was, but after living so long with duty, blood and death he'd changed. Loyalty he had learned quickly, albeit difficult as Alexander had never thought of anyone besides himself, but he cared about the covens. He cared if Damien had the power of Aurelia in his possession. He cared about Christopher and he was deeply in love with Lorin although he would never cross that line. No matter how tragically romantic it was. The solider and princess fall in love. It seemed like something out of Lorin's fairy tales.
As he listened to the night, Alexander heard the roof top door open behind him. He didn't need to turn around to know who it was. He could feel her. She stirred emotions in him that he'd never felt in his mortal life or this one. Of course he'd had women, it was in his nature after all, but Alexander had never loved. He'd never let anyone in. As she sat beside him, the smell of lilies filled the air.
"You should be resting."
Lorin pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around herself protectively. "Can't sleep, but that's been normal for me as of late."
"The dreams...I was trying to warn you. Christopher wanted to warn you," Alexander replied, but he didn't turn to look at her.
Looking at the demon beside her, Lorin took a few moments to take him in. She hadn't gotten a chance to really see him until now. His complexion was pale, but that was too be expected. His hair was wild yet it suited him. A slight Irish accent could be heard when he spoke and she wanted nothing more than to hear her name from his lips. A sudden breeze blew, Lorin shivered as it touched her skin and when she glanced back at Alexander she found that he was meeting her gaze.
"You didn't warn me just because Christopher told you to, did you?" Lorin asked, but it was more of a statement than a question.
His expression was unreadable and he didn't reply. What happened next caught her completely by surprise. Alexander moved quickly, cupping her face tightly in between his hands and captured her lips fiercely with his own. Without hesitation, Lorin wrapped her arms around Alexander's neck returning his kiss with just as much passion. The intensity of it caused the princess to whimper softly as their mouths mated wildly. Her fingers gripped his shirt tightly, trying to pull him closer. Their bodies were practically tangled together, but she just couldn't get enough.
Alexander groaned in frustration, tearing his mouth away from Lorin's. "We can't do this. I can't do this."
Cold. Lorin felt so cold at the loss of his touch. She felt empty. "Why not?" she whispered.
"Because you're already enough of a distraction. I won't be able to protect you if this goes any further."
"Alexander..." Lorin began, reaching out for him, but he stood avoiding the contact.
"I'm going to feed. Stay inside until dawn," Alexander said curtly.
Not knowing what to do or say, Lorin just nodded but the hurt was evident in those emerald eyes. Alexander could see it and it pained him to know that he was the cause of it, but it needed to be done. He waited for Lorin to climb back inside the apartment and when she did, Alexander jumped from the roof onto the streets of New Castle, to hunt.
Characters: Lorin Westerly, Christopher Westerly, Kara Morrigan and Alexander James (These characters have been created by me)
Rating: PG (for right now)
Disclaimer: This is my story. The idea was created by me. If you want to ever use the characters must ask permission first.
Summary: Lorin has had it tough the past three years since her brother's death. Not even her best friend Kara has been able to help her fully get over it. Lorin starts getting warnings in her dreams and ends up finding out a secret about her family's history. Who said vampires aren't real?
Candles lit the way through the numerous tunnels below the cemetery. It was like an entire different world. The dirt walls had eventually become stone. Paintings hung every few feet depicting different scenes, all by various artists. Lorin felt like they had been walking for hours. She could have never imagined that this place existed. As they walked, Christopher and Alexander told Kara and Lorin of how the council that helped govern the covens came to be. The Elders had been chosen by Aurelia and Aetelius. They had sired them, wanting help in building their kingdom of undead. Each Elder had been considered a wise man in their own time. And since Aurelia and Aetelius had respect for each of them, they were given a choice whether to be changed or not. Those who refused were killed to keep the secret safe. Seven had been changed, there were only three Elders left. Damien throughout the centuries had killed the others, so now the Elders were hidden below the city of New Castle where they had stayed for half a millennium. Hidden from all except for those who needed to know their location. Eventually, Christopher, Kara, Alexander and Lorin had reached an end to the winding paths. Two pillars stood on each side of a marble door with ornate carvings.
Kara stepped forward, her fingers tracing the etchings. “It’s beautiful.”
Christopher turned to his sister, cupping her face between his hands. “The Elders are beyond these doors. They’ve been expecting you and they’ve given Kara permission to be in there with you. Alexander and I will be here when you’re finished. You’ll be okay, Lorin.”
Taking a deep breath, Lorin nodded. She looked to Kara, who she knew was scared, but was trying to be strong for her friend. Coming to stand in front of the door, Lorin took one last look at Alexander and Christopher before pushing it open, stepping inside, with Kara right behind her.
The room they had entered wasn’t something she had expected. The beautiful stonework and detailed decorations were nowhere to be seen. To Lorin it was almost like a cave. Walls of dirt, with water leaking from the ceiling, but oddly there was a breeze causing the flames on the wicks of the candles to dance. Kara and Lorin stood in the middle of the room, realizing that they were surrounded. Seven marble chairs encircled them, yet only three were taken. The eyes of the Elders were on them. Each had hair of pure white, dressed in exquisite fabrics made of bright colors Words were written on the back of their seats, which Lorin came to realize were names.
“Lorin, Kara...we are honored by your presence.”
Both women turned to their left to the Elder vampire who had spoken. His white hair was long, but tied back in a braid. The shroud that was wrapped around his body was a deep red. “My name is Caelen.”
“Thank you. My brother has told me of my fate and Alexander has given me what information he could. I was told you would have more details, more answers to the questions that I have.”
One dressed in a royal blue stood, his white hair short, but his beard was long. “We will give you what you seek as well as guidance.” He then bowed. “I am Alaric.”
“And my name is Declan.” The one who had spoken this time was clad in a violet colored robe. “The human has been having visions,” he added. “You want to know why.”
Kara nodded as she replied. “Yes.”
“Of course, my dear.” Caelen smiled warmly. “You aren’t as normal as you think. The Morrigan line has been around for four centuries. Your family moved from Salem to escape persecution. For witches are as real as vampires and your family has magic running through their veins. With some its apparent they have powers from birth, others have the power suppressed. You have great power, child and it will be even greater so once you learn to control it. The power of premonition is a dangerous gift. If Damien finds out he will use you to his advantage. You must be careful.”
“I will,” Kara answered.
“You will study with me,” said Alaric. “I will help you understand the gift you were given.”
Nodding in response, Kara looked to Lorin, who seemed deep in thought, but before she could say anything, Declan spoke.
“You should not be afraid, your highness.”
“I’m trying not to be,” replied Lorin.
Alaric chuckled. “You’re failing miserably, princess.”
Closing her eyes, her grip on Kara’s hand tightened. “I just want answers. I already know about Aurelia and Aetelius, but what happened to them? What about my parents? Who exactly is Damien Sylis and why the hell does he want to kill my family? And what is so special about the Rings of Eden.”
“They hold Aurelia’s powers.” Kara was the one who answered, much to Lorin’s surprise. Noticing her best friend’s shocked expression, she looked at the Elders. “Christopher told me, but he didn’t go into much detail.”
Frustrated, Lorin sighed. “I’m glad everyone seems to be keeping me informed.” Kara gave her an apologetic look, but brought her attention back to the Elders when Caelen started speaking again.
“Lady Kara is correct. The rings you and Prince Christopher wear hold Aurelia’s powers. Every ounce of power that ever flowed through her body. When she and Aetelius decided they no longer wanted to rule over the covens, they passed the rings to their son Zane and their daughter Desdemona. Feeling she had no use for her powers now and wanting to protect her children at all costs, Aurelia secured her magic into the rings Aetelius had created for them. Unfortunately, no one knows exactly how to access the power. There’s never been a reason for it to be used before this. Damien is more powerful then ever. He’s causing unrest among the covens promising to share the power of the rings with all of them.”
“If Damien gains possession of the Rings of Eden,” Declan added, “The order we have spent centuries creating and preserving will be destroyed. He wants the humans to know we exist, to be our slaves. He doesn’t believe in maintaining a balance.”
“Hell on Earth,” whispered Kara.
Alaric nodded. “With Damien ruling as the Devil himself.”
================
Christopher tossed a few rocks down the hallway. It was so quiet the sound of the stones hitting the walkway echoed loudly. He and Alexander waited outside of the council room for the girls. Part of him wondered what was being said in there, but he knew most of it. He’d been given the speech, the stories when he’d changed. At least Lorin would understand it before she turned. Christopher noticed Alexander staring at the marble doors and he smirked.
“Is that concern I see on your face, Alexander?”
His gaze remained on the doors when he answered. “I was enjoying the silence.”
“You,” Christopher said, throwing a rock at his bodyguard, “have feelings for my sister.”
This time Alexander’s eyes met the prince’s. “Tread lightly Christopher.”
“You can’t hide it, although you’re trying awfully hard to. Lorin feels something for you, too. I can sense it when she looks at you.”
“Because you’re the only friend I’ve had in my seven hundred and thirty two years, I’m going to warn you. Leave it be.”
The seriousness in his expression startled Christopher. For the first time, he saw sadness in Alexander, who was trained to not become emotionally attached to anyone, to never feel pain. It was that moment that the prince realized the soldier was in love with the princess. Christopher thought it was very poetic and respecting Alexander’s wishes, he didn’t bring it up again.
“I’m in love with, Kara,” Christopher said suddenly.
“You’re awfully sentimental today, your highness. Shall I go find you a box of tissues?” Alexander mocked.
Christopher’s eyes turned silver. “It’s you who should tread lightly now.”
“You should tell her,” Alexander replied, but then said nothing more about it. He turned his gaze back to the marble door in front of him, his mind filling with thoughts of Princess Lorin.
=================
The Elders sat quietly, patiently waiting for the princess to say what was on her mind. She had stood there in silence for some time, taking in their words. Kara walked to the unoccupied stone chairs reading the names of the Elders who had passed, who Damien had killed.
“What happened to Aurelia and Aetelius?” Lorin questioned.
“Murdered,” Caelen answered. “Damien had been the one to do it. You see, Damien had become friends with Aetelius. This was after Zane and Desdemona had already been ruling for three hundred years. They were practically brothers, but Damien had fallen in love with Aurelia. When she refused his advances, he plotted his revenge. Damien convinced Aetelius to change him, not foreseeing the betrayal that was to come. The night after he had turned, Damien went into the room of Aurelia and Aetelius, murdering them. He had escaped before anyone knew what happened. Zane and Desdemona, of course had their soldiers search the lands for him, but it was as if he disappeared. Damien continued to hide until he had built his own force. Changing anyone he thought useful, trying to build his own empire. He eventually came back, but Zane and Desdemona had already had their children and had already been blessed with grandchildren. Knowing what was to happen, the Rings of Eden had been passed down to their grandchildren, Draven and Isis, who were then shipped off with a group of others to these lands. It was here in New Castle they settled and here we’ve stayed.”
“Eventually, Damien realized where we had gone and followed with those who call him royalty. He’s been killing your family for years and now its only you and Christopher. We never thought he would be able to accomplish it, but he did. Thankfully, the rings have always been passed before. And then Damien has to hunt again for them. It delays it for some time, but he still finds away,” Alaric continued.
“So, my parents. It was him?” Lorin looked each Elder in the eye, they all nodded in response. “All this because Aurelia wouldn’t love him?”
“I don’t think it was ever love. Being a close confidant of Aetelius, he knew the power she once possessed,” Declan replied. “When he found out what they were, he wanted it. Power. Control. Damien has always been evil. He’s not capable of love. He figured if he could make Aurelia love him, he could convince her to take back the rings from her children and give them to him.”
“Wow,” Kara muttered. “Just wow.”
Lorin’s head was pounding. She brought her fingers to her temples, rubbing slowly. “This...all of this is beyond incredible. But,” she said meeting the stares of the Elders, “I will do what I have to do to keep the Rings of Eden safe. To keep Aurelia’s power safe.”
The three Elders bowed before the princess. Declan then walked towards the corner of the room, grabbing an antique chest. He stood before Lorin and opened the lid. Inside was a book that had to have been as old as the Elders’ themselves. Alaric took the book from the chest, handing it to Lorin as Caelen rested a hand gently on the princess’ shoulder. “Take this book with you and look at it with your brother. We shall see you again soon.”
================
Alexander sat on the rooftop of Lorin's apartment, his eyes watching the darkness. He could sense the impending sunrise and wished it would come quickly. Lorin would be safer in the daylight. There was a time when protecting the blood line was a duty, but now it was something more. He was in love with the princess and he'd come to think of the prince as a brother. In all his years, Alexander had been able to remain emotionless and unattached. Even what memories he had retained from his mortal life reflected how impassive he once was. To be completely honest, Alexander had been an arrogant, self centered bastard. There were times when he still was, but after living so long with duty, blood and death he'd changed. Loyalty he had learned quickly, albeit difficult as Alexander had never thought of anyone besides himself, but he cared about the covens. He cared if Damien had the power of Aurelia in his possession. He cared about Christopher and he was deeply in love with Lorin although he would never cross that line. No matter how tragically romantic it was. The solider and princess fall in love. It seemed like something out of Lorin's fairy tales.
As he listened to the night, Alexander heard the roof top door open behind him. He didn't need to turn around to know who it was. He could feel her. She stirred emotions in him that he'd never felt in his mortal life or this one. Of course he'd had women, it was in his nature after all, but Alexander had never loved. He'd never let anyone in. As she sat beside him, the smell of lilies filled the air.
"You should be resting."
Lorin pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around herself protectively. "Can't sleep, but that's been normal for me as of late."
"The dreams...I was trying to warn you. Christopher wanted to warn you," Alexander replied, but he didn't turn to look at her.
Looking at the demon beside her, Lorin took a few moments to take him in. She hadn't gotten a chance to really see him until now. His complexion was pale, but that was too be expected. His hair was wild yet it suited him. A slight Irish accent could be heard when he spoke and she wanted nothing more than to hear her name from his lips. A sudden breeze blew, Lorin shivered as it touched her skin and when she glanced back at Alexander she found that he was meeting her gaze.
"You didn't warn me just because Christopher told you to, did you?" Lorin asked, but it was more of a statement than a question.
His expression was unreadable and he didn't reply. What happened next caught her completely by surprise. Alexander moved quickly, cupping her face tightly in between his hands and captured her lips fiercely with his own. Without hesitation, Lorin wrapped her arms around Alexander's neck returning his kiss with just as much passion. The intensity of it caused the princess to whimper softly as their mouths mated wildly. Her fingers gripped his shirt tightly, trying to pull him closer. Their bodies were practically tangled together, but she just couldn't get enough.
Alexander groaned in frustration, tearing his mouth away from Lorin's. "We can't do this. I can't do this."
Cold. Lorin felt so cold at the loss of his touch. She felt empty. "Why not?" she whispered.
"Because you're already enough of a distraction. I won't be able to protect you if this goes any further."
"Alexander..." Lorin began, reaching out for him, but he stood avoiding the contact.
"I'm going to feed. Stay inside until dawn," Alexander said curtly.
Not knowing what to do or say, Lorin just nodded but the hurt was evident in those emerald eyes. Alexander could see it and it pained him to know that he was the cause of it, but it needed to be done. He waited for Lorin to climb back inside the apartment and when she did, Alexander jumped from the roof onto the streets of New Castle, to hunt.