As for the castle and The Midnight Origin vampire clan, they remained hidden away from the rest of the world, their secrets and existence known only to a select few. And while they may have been isolated, they were content in their solitude, free from the fear of persecution, and able to live their lives as they saw fit.

Niles studied Lila curiously, noticing the familiarity in her features that reminded him of his clan. He invited her inside, offering her a seat and a warm smile. Lila seemed somewhat reserved, yet there was a hint of curiosity in her eyes.

As they conversed, Niles learned that Lila’s clan had been searching for a peaceful alliance with Killian and his clan. Their visit aimed to establish diplomatic ties and foster a sense of unity among the vampire community. Lila shared stories of her clan’s traditions, their values, and the challenges they faced in a world that often feared and misunderstood their kind.

Intrigued by Lila’s perspective, Niles shared his own experiences and the transformation he had undergone since his brother left the clan. As their conversation deepened, Niles realized that Lila, too, felt trapped by the expectations and constraints of her clan. She longed for a life of her own, one where she could freely express herself and explore the world beyond the boundaries set by tradition.

Niles saw a reflection of his journey in Lila’s words and a sense of kinship formed between them. They discovered a shared desire for change, a yearning to challenge the norms and find their paths.

At that moment, Niles decided. He proposed the idea of Lila leaving her clan and then leaving together to join Seain, and Desdemona in their pursuit of a new life—a life where they could redefine what it meant to be vampires, breaking free from the chains of old beliefs and embracing their own identities.

After Lila accepted Niles’ proposal, she departed from his chambers. As night fell, a group of Killian’s guards forcefully entered Niles’ room and seized him, escorting him straight to Killian. “Niles,” Killian addressed him. “Lila has told us that you intend to abandon our clan, much like your brother did. But why? Is there no woman or someone in your life for whom you’d be willing to risk everything?”

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Niles stood tall, his eyes meeting Killian’s intense gaze. “It’s not just about having someone, Killian,” he replied firmly. “It’s about finding my path, living a life that resonates with who I truly am. I’ve seen the world beyond these castle walls, and there is so much more to experience, to learn, and to love.”

Killian scoffed, a mix of anger and disappointment clear in his expression. “You speak of foolish dreams and naive desires,” he retorted. “Our clan’s heritage, our traditions, they define us. You think abandoning all that will bring you happiness?”

Niles took a step forward, his voice unwavering. “Happiness cannot be confined within the walls of tradition,” he stated. “There is a entire world out there, Killian, waiting to be explored. I refuse to let fear and stagnation hold me back any longer.”

Killian’s features hardened, his grip tightening on his scepter. “If you leave, Niles, you will be banished,” he declared, his voice laced with authority. “You will no longer be welcomed as a member of this clan. Consider the consequences of your actions.”

Niles looked at Killian and saw his father by his side with the look of anger on his face, the weight of his decision heavy on his shoulders. He had always hoped for his father’s understanding and support, but now it seemed impossible to attain. With resolve in his eyes, Niles stood tall. “I understand the consequences, Killian,” he replied calmly. “But I cannot deny who I am and the life I long for. I will leave the clan, and if one day you can accept me for who I’ve become, I will be waiting.”

Killian’s expression softened momentarily, a flicker of regret crossing his face. But it quickly vanished, replaced by a hardened resolve. “So be it,” he uttered, his voice cold and final. “You are no longer a part of this clan, Niles. Leave and never return.”

With those words, Niles turned away from Killian and the castle that had been his home for so long. He knew his decision would not be without its hardships, but deep down, he felt a sense of liberation and purpose.

The guards seized hold of Niles, swiftly lifting him and propelling him towards the window. They forcefully hurled him from the second floor, and he crashed onto the ground below. Unharmed, he regained his footing and resolutely turned his back on the castle, walking away.

With a heavy heart, Niles walked away from the castle, leaving behind the only life he had known. The rejection from his father and Killian stung deeply, but his determination to reunite with his brother, Seain, outweighed the pain.