Alora was playing chess alone, her focus on the board, when suddenly a hand reached over and moved the knight, capturing one of her white pawns. She looked up, startled, and her eyes widened in disbelief.
"Elliot!" she gasped, jumping out of her seat and throwing her arms around her younger brother.
Elliot returned the embrace but paused, sensing something off. Her warmth was gone, and there was no trace of the familiar human scent. His eyes narrowed in realization as he gently pushed her back to look at her. "You're not human anymore."
Alora smiled softly. "No, I'm not. It's a long story... I've become a vampire, like you." Her gaze shifted over him, noticing his build. "But look at you! You've grown so strong... I can sense it."
Elliot nodded. "I've been working hard."
"Have you been home yet?" Alora asked. "Last I heard, Magnus mentioned you might not be able to stay there at night. Odin said he'd take you to his place."
