Torn between worlds

Aurora leaned against the cold stone wall of her cell, her arms aching from the heavy iron chains. The room was dimly lit, the only source of light coming from a small torch flickering in the corner.

Her mind raced with plans of escape, but each one seemed more futile than the last. The vampires' lair was a fortress, and she was completely alone.

A sharp click broke the silence as the door swung open. Two guards entered, followed by Zach.

"You're quiet," Zach said, his voice smooth as he stepped closer. "No threats? No sarcastic remarks?"

Aurora glared at him. "What's the point? You seem to enjoy playing the cat with its mouse."

Zach chuckled, his eyes glinting. "You give yourself too much credit. You're not a mouse. You're more like...a thorn. Small, but irritating."

"And you're like a parasite. Persistent, but easily dealt with if you know how," she shot back, her tone sharp.

For a moment, Zach was silent. Then, to her surprise, he laughed—a genuine, rich sound that seemed to lighten the oppressive atmosphere of the room. "You're certainly more amusing than most humans."

Aurora narrowed her eyes. "What do you want from me?"

Zach tilted his head, studying her. "That's the question, isn't it? Maybe I'm curious. Maybe I just want to see how long it takes for you to break."

"Good luck with that," Aurora said coldly.

Zach smirked but didn't reply. He turned and walked toward the door, pausing in the doorway. "Rest, hunter. You'll need your strength."

As the door closed behind him, Aurora slumped against the wall, her mind whirling with questions. What was he planning? And why did part of her feel like she was already in over her head?

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