After my conversation with Elijah, I attended my remaining classes, preoccupied with his warning. Could it be true? Was I being hunted? Why? Elijah's vagueness only fueled my anxiety. Could I trust him? As a vampire, he was notorious for cunning.
Fortunately, I bumped into Lilith after my last class, and we found a quiet spot to discuss Elijah's claims. I shared my concerns, and Lilith's expression mirrored my unease.
"Should we trust him?" she asked, worry etched on her face. "He's a vampire, Rose. They're masters of deception."
I nodded in agreement. "You're right."
Lilith suggested, "Talk to Aunt Kathy about this. She might know what to do."
Aunt Kathy, my guardian and the woman who raised me, was a wise and knowledgeable white witch. I was told that the queen of white witches had found me and brought me to her. Aunt Kathy had raised me as her own since that day. I decided to seek her counsel.
I made my way to Aunt Kathy's office, located in the heart of Drewville College, where she worked as a professor. Her office, which I had visited only a few times before, impressed me with its academic atmosphere. Bookshelves lined with texts, personal books, and teaching materials surrounded a large desk cluttered with papers, books, and a laptop. Her academic certificates and degrees adorned the walls, alongside beautiful artworks reflecting her impeccable taste.
Upon entering, I found Aunt Kathy engrossed in her work, scribbling notes and typing on her laptop. Her black hair was neatly tied in a bun.
"I assume you have something to say," she said without looking up, her focus still on her work.
Aunt Kathy valued uninterrupted worktime, but I knew I had to share my concerns.
"I've been having this recurring dream," I began nervously, knowing she might scold me for not sharing it sooner.
Aunt Kathy's gaze shifted from her laptop to me. "What recurring dream?"
I took a deep breath and recounted the dream, including Elijah's warning and proposal.
Aunt Kathy listened attentively, her expression unreadable.
Aunt Kathy's expression remained neutral as I recounted the dream, her eyes locked onto mine. When I finished, she leaned back in her chair, steepling her fingers.
"Tell me more about Elijah," she said, her voice measured. "What makes you think he's trustworthy?"
I hesitated, recalling Elijah's enigmatic smile. "I'm not sure. He seems to know more than he's letting on, but he's vague about the details."
Aunt Kathy's eyes narrowed. "Vampires are notorious for their cunning. We must be cautious."
"I know," I agreed. "Lilith said the same thing."
Aunt Kathy nodded. "Lilith's instincts are sharp. We'll investigate Elijah's claims, but in the meantime, I want you to be vigilant. If someone is hunting you, we need to take precautions."
I felt a shiver run down my spine. "What kind of precautions?"
Aunt Kathy's expression turned serious. "I'll teach you some protection spells, and we'll increase the warding around your dorm. But first, I need to consult with the queen."
"The queen of white witches?" I asked, surprised.
Aunt Kathy nodded. "Yes. She may have insight into this situation. Now, let's focus on deciphering your dream. What do you think the 'YOU HAVE GONE ROGUE' message means?"
I shook my head. "I have no idea. That's what's been bothering me."
Aunt Kathy leaned forward, her eyes sparkling with determination. "We'll figure it out, together."