Patient B-2

Chapter Thirty-One: Wrath

Though my trust in Idalia is far from absolute- perhaps not even reaching a mere ten percent- I do acknowledge her cunning nature. I trust in her relentless determination to ensure her own safety above all else. After all, she has evaded capture for an impressive span of time, a feat that commands a certain level of respect. But even more so, she's determined to find her brother.

Therefore, I am willing to place some degree of trust in her as we approach the next auction. Not because I believe she wouldn't hesitate to leave me behind, as her actions have made that abundantly clear, but because I am confident in her resolve to find Avalyn and her brother. It's a risk for her to attend so soon after the previous auction, and by accompanying her, I am also taking a risk. However, our shared goal of reuniting with our loved ones outweighs the inherent dangers of our alliance.

Upon entering the seemingly worn-down warehouse, one is greeted by a spacious lobby-like room that immediately opens up. Initially, we assumed that one could only proceed forward, following the hallway down to where it entered into the even larger auditorium. But what we failed to notice was the presence of a singular elevator tucked away in the far right corner of the lobby.

This hidden elevator serves as the sole access point to the balcony, with no other entryways available beside it. Additionally, there are no visible entryways leading to the back of the stage, further emphasizing the limited options for ingress and egress within the space.

With the new information provided by Idalia's source, it's revealed that upon entering the elevator, one has the option to either ascend or descend to different levels. The two upper levels lead to the balconies in the auditorium, while the lower level descends to a basement area. Although Idalia's source was unable to gain complete access to the basement, a note left behind suggests the possibility of accessing the back of the stage through this level. However, it's important to note that this remains a theory, with no confirmation of its validity.

The revelation that Idalia's source was caught in the crossfire of her escape casts a shadow of uncertainty over our ability to gather further intelligence. With suspicions that he may have met his demise, finding a new source becomes an untenable option in our current circumstances. We remain in the dark about the current state of affairs since our departure, unable to gauge whether WWA is fully aware of our presence.

Despite the looming threat, Idalia holds a belief- albeit one she's reluctant to elaborate on- that the headman will keep the rest of the organization in the dark about our specific intentions. While they may be cognizant of the potential risks posed by vampires in the vicinity, they may not be aware of our concerted efforts to dismantle their operations or locate our missing companions.

As I ponder the possible connections between Idalia and the headman of WWA, various scenarios swirl through my mind. Given Idalia's two-hundred-year lifespan, it's conceivable that their relationship stretches back generations. He could be a distant relative, perhaps a great-great-great-great-grandfather, with ties that run deep through their shared lineage. Alternatively, there's the possibility of a more intimate connection- a past romance or even a former lover, though the thought feels peculiar and unsettling.

But, hell, what do I know? The woman is both peculiar and unsettling. It wouldn't surprise me if she kept it in the family.

Whatever the nature of their relationship may be, Idalia remains steadfast in her determination to keep it concealed, and I find myself lacking the energy or inclination to pry further. Some secrets are best left buried, and delving into the intricacies of her past with the headman is a task I'm not prepared to undertake. For now, our focus must remain on the task at hand- finding Avalyn.

As we painstakingly map out our strategy, one truth becomes glaringly apparent: slipping into the auction unnoticed is absolutely crucial. Yet, amidst our meticulous planning, it's evident that none of us can seem to reach a consensus on the best course of action.

We gather around the table, Sophie's absence noticeable after she stepped out moments ago, her reasons escaping my attention as my own thoughts consume me. Perhaps she sought a respite from the mounting frustration, a sentiment shared by us all. But I can't afford such a luxury. Avalyn occupies every corner of my mind, her absence a constant ache I refuse to ignore. If she's enduring pain, then so shall I.

Despite our close proximity, silence descends upon us like a heavy shroud. The weight of helplessness presses down, each passing moment stretching into an agonizing eternity as we grapple with our collective frustration.

A relentless ache grips my chest, a fervent longing to envelop Avalyn in my arms, shielding her from whatever unspeakable horrors she may be facing. The mere thought of her suffering stokes a fierce fire within me, kindling a resolve to forge ahead despite the daunting obstacles that loom before us.

While emerging from the auction with nothing more than a layout of a building was undeniably disheartening, I refuse to succumb to total despair. Avalyn's safety and well-being remain my unyielding focus, and I'll spare no effort to secure her return. I'll pour every ounce of my being into bringing her back, and then some. We all will.

The sudden slam of the front door jolts me from my reverie, and I join Cierien and Idalia in turning our heads toward the source of the disturbance. There, standing in the doorway, is Sophie, her hands clutching her abdomen where a trickle of blood seeps through her fingers.

//

writing wrath so seriously is hard. I didn't like this chapter but it felt necessary.

anyway ill give yall the next today too :)