Lately, a transformation had struck everything about her. Her dreams were no longer mere dreams; some became messages, while others transported her to alternate dimensions or offered glimpses into the past, particularly in unfamiliar situations.
This latest dream or revelation linked to her deceased mother might hold a message, or perhaps not. Regardless, Lauren felt compelled to delve deeper, hoping to uncover something meaningful.
Rising from bed, she cast her eyes upon the wall clock, noting that it was only 5:30 AM. She resolved to freshen up before engaging in a workout session within the opulent gymnasium nestled within her aunt's mansion.
---
"Is it that time of the lunar cycle?" Serafina inquired as she made her way towards an immense door made of steel, sealed shut from the outside.
"Yes," Venessa confirmed.
"For how long has he been confined there?" Serafina asked once more.
"Ever since we returned from the president's party, and he will remain there until midnight. Thankfully, this door is capable of restraining him," Damon replied.
"So, he endures this torment and suffering every other month?" Serafina directed her question to Derek, who had been silent for some time.
"Regrettably, yes. Every final Saturday in a two-month interval, he isolates himself in this manner to prevent any harm to others," Derek explained.
"You possess whitching abilities, surely you can find a way to assist him," Serafina turned to Venessa.
"I do not believe there is anyone who can aid him, at least not to my knowledge. It is his burden for being a half vampire," Venessa responded with a sense of understanding.
"That is unfortunate," Serafina murmured to herself.
While the three of them continued their conversation, they suddenly heard a resounding thud against the steel door.
'Bam'
'Bam'
'Bam'
'Bam'
"Are you certain that the door can withstand his strength?" Serafina asked once more, as Damon nodded in confirmation.
"Very well then, I shall make my departure now," Serafina declared, and she left.
Meanwhile at the Benneth mansion.
The Benneth siblings observed Lauren as she quietly consumed her breakfast, sensing that something may be amiss.
"Lauren, are you alright? Is something troubling you?" Veronica Benneth inquired, setting aside her utensils and diverting her attention to her somber niece.
Lauren looked up and gazed at her for a minute before returning her focus to her food.
"Today marks the anniversary of my mother's passing, did you know that?" She questioned, causing an immediate hush to descend upon the room.
"I am aware," Veronica Benneth responded solemnly.
"Then why didn't you attend my mom's funeral? I understand that she may have been seen as the outcast of the family for leaving, but you were her sister," Lauren asked, anguish evident in her voice.
Veronica Benneth felt a pang of sympathy for her niece, comprehending the depth of her emotions.
"I was present at her funeral, though unseen by others," she said, placing her hand gently atop Lauren's. "I never deserted you. Every milestone you achieved in your career, I was there. I can show you, if you'd like," she continued, looking intently at Lauren, who appeared surprised by this revelation.
With a flick of her hand, an album materialized on the table, causing Lauren to startle momentarily, still adjusting to the magical aspects of their family.
"Open it," Veronica Benneth instructed calmly.
Lauren stared at the album for a few seconds before softly flipping open the back cover.
Lauren was taken aback upon seeing photographs of herself: one from her high school graduation, another from her Yale University matriculation, pictures from her college graduation, and in each of these pictures, Veronica Benneth was seated amongst the crowd.
Lauren turned to look at her aunt, rendered speechless. She had so much she wanted to convey but struggled to find the words.
"Did you believe her death was caused by the accident reported?" Lauren inquired.
Her question caught Veronica Benneth off guard, her face tensing as she wondered why Lauren held a different belief.
"Well, the police claimed it was an animal attack, specifically a wolf," her aunt replied.
"Do you think it was a werewolf?" Lauren questioned further.
"No, werewolves do not attack humans. It goes against the accord," Veronica Benneth clarified.
"But what I witnessed was a man, not an animal," Lauren internalized her thoughts.
"Do you suspect that there may have been a cover-up regarding our mother's death?" Veronica Benneth inquired.
Lauren pondered the notion, contemplating whether or not to disclose the dream she had, ultimately deciding against it.
"I have a theory, but I need to confirm it first," Lauren cryptically stated.
"Alright, finish your breakfast," Veronica Benneth said, rising from the table and departing the dining area.