I roll off the waterbed, my movements careful not to disturb Mia's peaceful slumber. The water ripples beneath me, a gentle reminder of the comfort and normalcy of this childhood haven. It's been a week since Arlo and Vivienne dropped me off at Mia's, a week since I escaped Alistair's clutches, a week since my life was irrevocably shattered.

My phone screen illuminates the darkened room, casting an eerie glow on my face. I check Arlo's location, my heart skipping a beat when I see it pinned to the house Vivienne took us to with the dancers and performers.

A mix of emotions floods me. Concern for his well-being wars with the lingering sting of his rejection. The last time they called, they refused to divulge their location, wanting to protect me from Alistair's wrath. And I, in turn, kept my whereabouts a secret, fearing for my parents' safety.

I hesitate, my fingers hovering over the screen. Should I reach out to him? The silence of the room amplifies my indecision. The weight of my newfound existence, the secrets and the dangers, presses down on me.

With a sigh, I set my phone aside, the glow fading into darkness. Staring at the phone, a wave of determination washes over me. I can't stay in this limbo of uncertainty any longer. I need to hear his voice, to know he's okay. With a trembling hand, I dial Arlo's number.

The line rings twice before a breathless voice answers. "Hello?"

It's Vivienne, her voice strained and winded. "Vivienne? Are you guys okay?" I ask, my heart pounding in my chest.

A soft chuckle echoes through the phone, and I can practically hear her smile. "Oh, yeah, we're fine, honey," she assures me. "Arlo's right here under me. I'll hand him the phone."

A series of muffled moans fills the silence, followed by Arlo's deep voice, husky and tinged with a playful warmth. "Hello, Evie."

The image of them entwined flashes through my mind, a mix of jealousy and longing stirring within me.

"Are you two fucking?" I blurt out, my voice laced with a bitterness I can't quite conceal.

Arlo's response is a low moan, his breath hitching in his chest. "Not anymore," he finally manages, his voice husky and laced with amusement.

"What the fuck!" I exclaim, my voice rising in anger. "Here I am, worried sick about you, hiding out with Mia at my parents' house, trying to keep everyone safe, and you're just having the time of your life with Vivienne?"

My words tumble out in a rush, fueled by a mix of hurt and betrayal.

Arlo's chuckle fades, replaced by a concerned tone. "Wait, Evie, how do you know where we are?"

I realize my slip-up, my anger momentarily forgotten. "The tracking app," I mutter, my cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "You’re still on my family's group, AGH!" I shout, ending the phone call abruptly. I toss the phone onto the bed, my chest heaving with a mix of anger and shame.

Mia, now fully awake, watches me with wide eyes. The silence in the room is thick with tension, the remnants of my outburst hanging heavy in the air.

I pace the room, my anxiety growing with each passing second. "I have to go over there, Mia," I declare, my voice firm. "I need to see what's going on."

Mia's eyes widen with concern. "Evie, it could be a trap," she cautions, her voice laced with worry. "What if Alistair is there, waiting for you?"

The thought sends a shiver down my spine. Alistair's cruel laughter, his menacing threats, echo in my mind. But I can't just sit here, paralyzed by fear. I need to know if Arlo is safe, if he's truly moved on, or if there's still a chance for us.

"I have to know, Mia," I say, my voice softening. "I can't just... ignore this."

I meet her gaze, pleading for understanding. "Please. I need to do this."

As we cautiously step out of my parents' house, the cool night air brushes against my skin, a stark contrast to the turmoil brewing within me. We make our way towards Mia's car, our footsteps echoing in the quiet suburban street. Just as we're about to reach the car, a figure emerges from a parked vehicle across the road.

The man's polite demeanor catches me off guard. He approaches us with a gentle smile, his yellow aura radiating a warmth that contradicts my initial fear.

"Ladies," he begins, his voice smooth and reassuring, "I was wondering if you had seen my friend Arlo?"

Arlo, a friend to a knight? My mind races, trying to reconcile this new information with the image of the demon-slaying warrior I know.

"No, I haven't seen him," I reply, my voice guarded. "In fact, we were on our way to... well, let's just say we're not on the best of terms right now."

A flicker of understanding crosses the knight's face, and instead of turning away, he steps closer. "Then you must be Evie," he states, his tone more assertive now. "Arlo mentioned you."

His words hang in the air, heavy with unspoken implications. The questions swirl in my mind, even more urgently now. What did Arlo say about me? Why is this knight seeking him out? And what does this mean for me?

The man extends a hand, his grip firm and reassuring. "Let me introduce myself," he says, his voice carrying a quiet authority. "I am Ezra, a knight at the Sanctuary of Seraphina." He stands tall, his broad shoulders and piercing blue eyes conveying a sense of unwavering strength and purpose.

The mention of the Sanctuary catches my attention. "Wait," I say, my curiosity piqued, "your church is named after the previous lord of the Vampires?"

Ezra nods, a hint of sadness flickering across his face. "Indeed," he confirms. "She was a remarkable woman, a beacon of hope in a world shrouded in darkness."

He pauses, his gaze meeting mine with a knowing intensity. "Come by sometime, and we can talk more," he offers. "But for now, I can see you're torn by jealousy."

His words strike a chord, and I can't deny the pang of hurt that still lingers. "Yeah," I admit, my voice barely above a whisper. "Arlo's out there, fucking around, and..."

Ezra raises a hand, silencing me gently. "Search around, Evie," he instructs, his voice calm and steady. "Tell me what you can see."

As my anger subsides, I reach out with my aura, scanning the surroundings. A flicker of orange catches my attention, a demonic presence lurking nearby.

"What? Why?" I think to myself, my confusion growing.

Ezra nods, his expression grim. "They're likely pulling at your emotions, trying to lure you into a trap," he explains. "Amplifying the negative thoughts you already harbor."

Mia nudges my shoulder, a silent "I told you so" hanging in the air.

"But we have our protective amulets," I protest, clutching the woven necklace. "He can't send me negative thoughts."

Ezra's gaze softens. "No, he can't create new thoughts in your mind," he clarifies, "but the seeds of doubt and jealousy are already there. He's merely amplifying the negativity you've placed in your own soul."

His words hit me like a punch to the gut. He's right. The demon is preying on my own insecurities, twisting my love for Arlo into a weapon against me.

Ezra's words pierce through the haze of my anger, leaving a raw ache in their wake. He's right. The demon isn't creating these feelings; it's merely exploiting the vulnerabilities I've allowed to fester.

A wave of shame washes over me, mingling with the lingering hurt and betrayal. I lower my gaze, unable to meet Ezra's knowing eyes.

Sensing my distress, he speaks again, his voice gentle but firm. "Evie," he begins, "I must share something with you. We at the Sanctuary have long suspected Alistair's collusion with the demonic forces. Your encounter tonight only confirms our fears."

Ezra's expression turns thoughtful. "If you wish," he offers, "I can explain more at the Sanctuary. It wouldn't be wise to discuss such matters openly here."

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Mia and I exchange a quick glance. The Sanctuary, a place steeped in both history and mystery, holds a certain allure. It's a chance to learn more about this hidden world, to gain a deeper understanding of the forces we're up against.

"We'll follow you," I say, my voice firm. "Lead the way, Ezra."

As we settle into Mia's car, a wave of nervous anticipation washes over me. "So, Evie," Mia begins, her voice laced with curiosity, "what do you think?"

I sigh, leaning back against the headrest. "I honestly don't know," I admit, my thoughts swirling with confusion. "Arlo never mentioned working with the Knights. But I definitely can believe that Alistair is working with the demons."

A cold fear grips my heart. "If they're at my parents' house," I continue, my voice trembling slightly, "I fear they've already captured Vivienne and Arlo."

The thought is unbearable. Arlo, my protector, my confidante, in the clutches of Alistair? The image sends a shiver down my spine.

Mia reaches over and squeezes my hand, her touch a silent reassurance. "We'll find them, Evie," she says, her voice firm. "We won't let Alistair win."

Her words offer a glimmer of hope, a reminder that I'm not alone in this fight. Together, we'll face whatever darkness lies ahead.

The car slows to a stop in front of an unassuming building nestled amongst a row of quaint shops and cafes. It's smaller than I expected, its brick facade worn with time, and a simple steeple reaching towards the starlit sky. The only indication of its purpose is a modest sign hanging above the entrance, illuminated by a soft, welcoming light.

* Sanctuary of Seraphina

* "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." - Matthew 11:28

A wave of unexpected calm washes over me as I read the inscription. Despite its humble exterior, the Sanctuary exudes a sense of peace and serenity, a stark contrast to the chaotic world I've recently been thrust into.

Mia squeezes my hand, her eyes mirroring my own surprise. "It's... quaint," she whispers, her voice hushed with reverence.

I nod in agreement, my heart strangely drawn to this unassuming place. It feels like a haven, a sanctuary in the truest sense of the word.

Ezra, his yellow aura glowing softly in the twilight, stands patiently by the entrance, a welcoming smile on his face. As we step out of the car and approach him, a wave of peace washes over me, a stark contrast to the anxiety that has been my constant companion these past few days. But beneath the calm, a flicker of trepidation remains. Do I, a creature of the night, truly belong in this place of sanctuary?

The air inside the church is heavy with the scent of incense and candle wax, a comforting aroma that evokes a sense of tranquility. The dimly lit interior, adorned with stained glass windows and simple wooden pews, whispers of solace and refuge. Despite my apprehension, a part of me can't help but feel drawn to this haven of peace.

"Come in," Ezra says, his voice a gentle invitation. "All are welcome here. Don't be scared."

His words, though meant to be reassuring, only heighten my apprehension. The idea that a vampire like me would be welcomed in a church feels almost too good to be true. Still, I cross the threshold, Mia close at my side.

The lobby is surprisingly bustling for this late hour. A few humans sit scattered on the comfortable couches, some deep in conversation, others lost in prayer. I notice a couple of knights, their yellow auras blending seamlessly with the warm glow of the room. And then, my eyes widen in surprise. Tucked away in a quiet corner, two other vampires sit engaged in hushed conversation.

Ezra notices my reaction. "The Sanctuary is always open to weary souls of all kinds," he explains, a gentle smile on his face. "We have pastors like myself available at all hours for anyone seeking guidance or solace. And if you'd like to stay, we offer a midnight service."

I glance at Mia, a silent question in my eyes. She nods, a hint of curiosity flickering across her features. I turn back to Ezra, a sense of cautious optimism blooming in my chest.

"We'd love to stay for the service," I reply, my voice steadier than I expected. Perhaps this sanctuary is exactly what we need.

Ezra leads us through a side entrance, away from the main gathering area. We enter a cozy room, bathed in warm lamplight and furnished with plush armchairs. A sense of privacy and intimacy settles over us.

"I'm sure you both have many questions," Ezra begins, his voice gentle. "Here, we're safe to discuss anything you wish."

Mia, her curiosity piqued, jumps right in. "My first question is about the name. Why is a sanctuary named after a vampire?"

Ezra smiles, a hint of sadness touching his eyes. "The name is a beacon, a way to guide vampires, like Evie, to our doors. Seraphina was unlike the other two vampire lords. She believed in coexistence, in allowing vampires to explore their own beliefs. Some, like Arlo, even believe they possess souls—or as you call them, auras—that can be saved."

He pauses, his gaze filled with a quiet conviction. "Our mission from God is to save souls and bring His children home," he continues, his voice resonating with a deep faith. "As it is written, 'For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.'" (Luke 19:10)

I feel a warmth spread through me, a sense of hope I haven't experienced in days. Could it be true? Could there be a path to salvation, even for a creature of the night like me?

Ezra's words hang heavy in the air, a mixture of hope and disbelief swirling within me. A vampire, welcomed in a church? A path to salvation for creatures of the night? It seems impossible, yet Ezra's conviction is undeniable.

Mia, her eyes wide with wonder, leans forward. "So you believe that even vampires can be saved?" she asks, her voice barely a whisper.

Ezra nods, his gaze unwavering. "Yes," he confirms, "we believe that anyone with a soul, regardless of their nature, can find redemption through faith."

His words ignite a flicker of hope within me, a fragile flame in the darkness that threatens to consume me. But doubts still linger.

"But... how?" I ask, my voice hesitant. "How can a creature like me, who feeds on blood, who exists in the shadows, find a place in God's light?"

Ezra smiles gently. "The path to salvation is not always easy," he acknowledges. "But it is open to all who seek it with a sincere heart. And remember, Evie, you are not alone. We are here to help you, to guide you on your journey."

His words resonate with me, offering a lifeline in the midst of my confusion. I glance at Mia, her hand reaching out to clasp mine. Her touch is warm and reassuring, a reminder that I have an ally in this unfamiliar world.

"We'll help you too, Ezra," Mia declares, her voice filled with a newfound determination. "We want to fight Alistair, to protect the innocent from his evil."

Ezra's expression softens, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes. "Thank you," he says, his voice sincere. "Your willingness to stand against the darkness is truly inspiring."

He pauses, his gaze sweeping over us both. "But this fight is dangerous," he warns. "Alistair is powerful, and his demonic allies are cunning and ruthless. You must be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead."

I nod, my resolve hardening. "We are," I say, my voice steady. "We've already begun to prepare."

I glance at Mia, a silent understanding passing between us. We've faced unimaginable horrors, discovered hidden strengths, and forged an unbreakable bond. Together, we'll confront the darkness, armed with faith, courage, and the unwavering support of those who believe in us.

The question hangs in the air, a mix of curiosity and a hint of suspicion in Evie's voice. Ezra pauses, considering his response carefully.

"I've known Arlo for about three years," he finally admits, his gaze steady. "I first encountered him when I began watching over you."

Evie's eyebrows shoot up in surprise. "He was the one who told you about me?"

Ezra nods, a hint of sadness touching his eyes. "Yes. He sensed the darkness gathering around you, the impending danger. He sought our help, hoping we could protect you and your family."

"Why would I, and my family, need protection?" I ask, my voice tinged with confusion. I glance down at the protective amulet around my neck, a tangible reminder of the unseen dangers lurking in the shadows.

Ezra's gaze follows mine, then settles back on my face. "Arlo felt that it was strange the way Alistair took an interest in you," he explains, his tone measured. "And when he noticed demons also watching over your parents, his concern grew."

A chill runs down my spine. The pieces of the puzzle are starting to fall into place, revealing a disturbing picture. Alistair's obsession with me, the demonic presence surrounding my family – it all points to a sinister plot, one I'm only just beginning to understand.

"Do you know why?" I press, my voice urgent. "Why am I so important to them?"

Ezra's expression turns somber. "Unfortunately, I do not," he admits, his voice laced with regret. "The angels have not revealed that information to me or those of this sanctuary."

A wave of frustration washes over me. So many questions, so few answers. I'm a pawn in a game I don't understand, a target for forces beyond my comprehension.

A wave of memories floods my mind, the horror of that night still vivid in my memory. "The night Arlo... turned me," I clarify, my voice trembling slightly. "He said a knight was after me, trying to kill me."

Ezra's brow furrows. "I don't believe a knight would have killed you," he says, his tone thoughtful. "Perhaps they intended to control you, which to Arlo might seem like the same thing." He pauses, his gaze piercing mine. "Or it may simply be the way vampires perceive death—not as a passage to another realm, but as an end to existence. But a knight will not murder a human."

His words offer a new perspective, a glimmer of understanding amidst the confusion. "Most knights," he continues, "don't see vampires as human or as beings capable of salvation. We are unique in that way here at the Sanctuary. If a knight was following you, it wasn't from this church. There are many other churches in the city."

He mentions one in particular. "The main church is the Cathedral of Eternal Light."

Mia and I exchange glances. We both know the Cathedral, its towering spires and omnipresent billboards a familiar sight throughout the city. They even have their own TV channel, broadcasting sermons and religious programming 24/7.

A sense of unease settles over me. If the knights from the Cathedral were after me, it could explain Arlo's drastic actions. But it also raises a troubling question: why would they target me? What makes me so different, so threatening?

The mystery deepens, and the stakes feel higher than ever.

Ezra's expression turns thoughtful. "They may know more at the Cathedral," he suggests, his voice cautious. "I could inquire, but it would be unwise for you two to go there asking questions."

He pauses, his gaze lingering on me. "For one obvious reason," he adds, a hint of sympathy in his eyes. "A vampire would not be welcomed there."

A pang of sadness pierces my heart. Even in this world of supernatural beings, prejudice and fear still reign supreme.

"It's almost midnight," Ezra continues, his voice gentle. "Do you still wish to join the sermon?"

I glance at Mia, seeking her opinion. She nods, her curiosity outweighing any apprehension she might feel.

"Yes," I say, my voice firm. "We'll stay."