Authors note: This is a shorter part. But expect a larger reveal in part IX.
In the weeks after the massacre of Easton Burrough, Alden often found himself tucked in a corner of the Manors library, night after night lost in mountains of books. Like everything in the Manor, the library was expansive. A three-story tall room with bookshelves that lined the walls from floor to vaulted glass ceiling. Ladders far too tall for the children to climb were sprinkled around the perimeter and an attendant, named Edith, sat at the front entrance guarding the library from any noise or disturbance, and the ladders from the unpredictable children.
The weight of eternity was only starting to set it. Weeks without the break of sleep between days left Alden restless. Desperate to fill his quiet nights with something other than his thoughts, he delved into the endless selection of writing found in the Manors library. Initially, he was searching for an escape, reading fictional novels that stole him away from his own reality. But in time, his curiosity about his new world overcame him. He found himself scanning the rows of books in search of information about vampyr. What exactly were they? How did they come to be? What were they capable of? Though his mind wandered into the realm of generalities, his thoughts always led back at Lady Anastasia.
In search of answers, Alden began watching the attendants at the Manor. Observing them in moments where they thought no one was watching. Curious if they too shared that ichorous magic Lady Anastasia wielded. Though he never found his answer, he found several more questions. Why was Lady Anastasia the only one who could command him? He was certain Ophelia would command him if given the opportunity. Despite their now, several encounters, Ophelia seemed entirely disinterested in him. Like she merely tolerated his presence. He was certain she would command him to keep to his room, if only to free herself of his company. Her attitude towards him stood in stark contrast to how warmly she treated Lady Anastasia. Ophelia was devoutly loyal, behaving like a guard dog she was never found far from Lady Anastasia’s side. But even Ophelia seemed to lack any signs of magic.
Late one evening, after putting Emily to bed Alden began digging through the library’s collection in search of answers. After pulling out a stack of books almost as tall as him, Alden made himself comfortable on one of the chaise loungers in the corner of the library and began his research. Combing through historical books from around the world for hours. In search of anything that even remotely resembled Lady Anastasia’s magic.
“Has the lowly laborer decided to become an academic?” Lady Anastasia’s voice cut through his focus.
Shutting The History of The Blackwater Canyon like he’d been caught reading a diary, Alden said, “Now that my time isn’t finite, reading seems a good use of it. Reading is no longer a luxury as I am no longer a laborer.”
Lady Anastasia side eyed his mountain of books then took a seat in a chair across from his, “Are you, looking for something in particular?”
Alden shrugged, “I’m simply curious about the world, as mine has always been quite small.”
Her eyes narrowed on him, “The world you say… am I now your world?”
Alden stiffened, “I do not understand your meaning.”
Lady Anastasia leaned back in her chair, hair cascading over the arm and draping the floor she said, “Mister Cain-“
“Alden is fine,” he cut in.
She arched a brow, “Alden, your lurking has not gone unnoticed. I’ve had several of my attendants report an uneasiness at your constant…observations of them.”
Alden’s cheeks grew warm, “I-I meant no harm,” he stuttered.
Lady Anastasia laughed, “Do not fear Alden, none of them considered you a threat.”
Alden sat back in his chaise wanting to be offended by her words, but was instead reassured by them.
“I suppose that is, not a bad thing…” he trailed off as if asking himself how he felt about her statement.
“If you are only interested in researching information about the world, I suppose there is no use in me taking you to a different library within my Manor,” Lady Anastasia glanced up at the vaulted glass ceiling, moonlight highlighting the smooth texture of her skin.
“Another library?” Alden asked.
“Indeed, filled with a world of literature that is…not appropriate for the children.”
“Where might I find this library?” He could not hide the eagerness in his tone.
Lady Anastasia glanced at him with a smirk, “This library is likely of no interest to you. I fear it doesn’t have,” she scanned the titles of books sitting in a pile beside Alden, “Many historical novels within it. Seems you enjoy the literal realities of the world.” Then she stood from her chair as if prepared to depart.
“Wait-“ Alden reached out, almost grabbing her hand but stopping himself. “I-I am interested in…other topics.”
She stared down at him in wait.
He sighed, “Your games are rather obvious Lady Ana-“
“Ana is fine,” she cut in this time.
“Ana,” he said with a pause. The name felt improper.
She returned to her seat across from him, “Though I prefer you address me formally in front of the children.”
He nodded, “Tell me what you seek Ana. Why did you seek me out tonight? Why tease this…secret library if you did not intend to show it to me.”
“Delighted to see we are speaking directly now instead of evading honest answers to simple questions,” she retorted eyes flickering with amusement.
Alden smirked, “You are a fascinating creature, Ana.”
“Creature?” She spoke with feigned offense.
He shook his head, “Indeed, for I know not what to call you. You say we are vampyr however you…” he trailed off, “You are far more than I.”
“I am also far older than you,” she offered.
“How much older?” he asked, returning a curious gaze.
“Asking a Lady her age is rather inconsiderate, wouldn’t you say?” She accused.
Alden chuckled, “Indeed, though I fear there isn’t a thing I could say that would sway your confidence.”
She rolled her eyes, “I am over five hundred years old now.” She crossed her legs as if punctuating her statement. Her silky black gown elegantly draping her curves as she settled into her chair.
“Five hundred years,” Alden muttered, putting his hand to his chin in contemplation, “Is there…some kind of change that occurs with age for vampyr? Do we grow more powerful?”
She sighed, “Is power all you seek?”
He shook his head, “No, not at all. I’m merely curious about this new existence of mine. You’ve told me I’ve much to learn, though I haven’t a clue where to start. Nor have I been provided any clear direction.”
She gave him a pointed look then said, “You will not find what you seek in this library. It was cultivated with the children’s development in mind, and our world is not one they belong in.” She gazed up at the towering wall of books, “Though, I sense there is more to this curiosity of yours than you let on. If I’m to allow you access to my library, I must ensure the knowledge within is used appropriately. For I will not risk the safety of my Manor for some reckless man on a mission to gain power.” Her tone grew sharper as she spoke, “So I ask again, what knowledge do you seek, and why?”
She was dangling this library over him like a carrot on a stick. He had no doubt she knew the answer to her own question before even seeking him out. She was merely testing his integrity.
“I want to learn more about your magic and…” he sighed, “I want to know how to kill a vampyr.”
He watched for a reaction, but she simply nodded.
“Magic is a curious thing. Not all possess the capability of harnessing it,” she answered casually.
He furrowed his brow at her.
She laughed, “What is it Alden? Surprised I’m not more concerned about your interest in killing yourself?”
He sat back in his chaise, shocked, “What do you-“
“I already know you’ve considered it. After realizing that you would continue on, even after Emilys eventual demise,” her eyes flickered with understanding.
He lowered his head, “You must think me a coward.”
“Not at all. Eternity sounds enticing until you come to realize how lonely it can become.”
A silence fell between them. Ana gazed up at the sky above. It was as if the moon was admiring her, rather than she it.
“There are few who understand what it is to live as long as I,” she said somberly.
“Have you-“ he stopped himself.
“I have,” she replied, understanding his meaning. “It is an unfortunately difficult task to kill a vampyr. As such, it is near impossible for one to kill themselves. A rather cruel fate indeed,” sorrow shrouded Ana’s eyes as she gazed upon the moon once more, like it was a dear friend.
“Apologies, I do not mean to pry,” Alden stammered.
“Do not lie Alden. You have taken an interest in me, have you not? You’ve only just admitted to spending hours in this library researching information that would tell you more about me. And yet you never thought to simply ask,” she turned back to him, her words a challenge, and her grin an invitation to play.
Thanks for reading.
-K.M.
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