Kajin is seen resting on a bed. He slowly starts to open his eyes.

"Ugh... Where am I?" he says in a low tone.

Looking around, he finds himself in a large, warm room. A big window offers a view of distant mountains.

"Dryia Mountains? Ugh... Why did it have to be her, of all people?" Kajin mutters as realization strikes.

The door creaks open, and a woman steps in.

"So, it was you..." Kajin says, his voice filled with irritation as he recognizes the woman.

She gives him a sly smile and walks toward him, her heels clicking with every step. Her tight black dress sways gently as she moves, her long, straight black hair shining in the light. Her red eyes, filled with happiness and playfulness, lock onto Kajin.

As she gets closer, she begins to speak, her voice tinged with teasing laughter. "You little brat," she giggles. "You don’t have to push yourself to the brink of death if you wanted to see me that badly."

This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there.

She laughs softly, every word dripping with amusement. The vampire woman slowly reaches out her pale hand and caresses Kajin's head.

"You’ve always been such a hothead, you know that? Why don’t you rest? You’ve done so much already, and—"

Before she can finish, Kajin grabs her hand.

"I don’t need your kind words, Anastasia. I’ve told you countless times not to interfere with me. Stay out of my matters," Kajin snaps, his tone sharp and laced with anger.

Anastasia smiles, her red lips curving into an expression of genuine happiness.

"You haven’t changed in the slightest... Brother," she says softly.

She sits down on the bed beside Kajin, leaning in close. "But I can’t help it. A big sister always cares for her little brother. So, even if you push me away, I’ll always be there for you."

She squeezes his cheeks playfully. "Aww... You’re so adorable. Even more adorable when you’re angry."

Kajin’s temper flares, his voice low and threatening. "Get your hands away from my face..."

Anastasia laughs, releasing his cheeks. Standing up, she walks toward the large window, gazing out at the mountains beyond.

"The Dryia Mountains," she says softly. "They’re my greatest defense, here in my... lonely castle." Her voice is warm, but an undercurrent of sadness lingers.

"For fifty years, I’ve lived here in isolation... away from everything I loved. All I ever wanted was justice and truth." She steps closer to the wall, her hand trailing over its cold surface.

"In this castle, the only thing I’ve enjoyed is its calmness and atmosphere."

Turning back toward Kajin, Anastasia’s red eyes meet his.

"But I suppose my story here doesn’t compare to yours... does it, Kajin?"