Chapter 33: "Scent? Feed who? I do not understand," Emeriel confessed, his mind struggling to understand her words. "You shouldn't be here, Em. Please, go away." "And what are you doing here?" Emeriel countered, casting an apprehensive glance toward the imposing metal gates. "Come on, let's leave this place," he urged, taking hold of Aekeira's hand. "No!" Aekeira jerked her hand away. "I need to be here. But you, Emeriel, you shouldn't be. Leave." "What? No! You don't need to be here. No sane person should be here!" Emeriel seized her hand once more, this time tightening his grip. "Come on, Keira, please, let's go!" "I can't, okay!?" Aekeira's voice cracked, tears falling and smearing her makeup. She looked completely exhausted, as though burdened by the weight of the world. The sight pierced Emeriel's heart like a dagger. His sister no longer tried to withdraw her hand, simply too weary to fight. "I can't leave, Em," she whispered tearfully. "If I do, it will be you who goes behind those closed doors." Emeriel recoiled at the thought. But he quickly recovered. "Fine, I'll go to the forbidden chambers." "No, you can't!" Aekeira stated vehemently, her eyes wide. "Not you, Em. Never you, do you hear me? I will do it." Emeriel didn't want to enter that chamber, barricaded with metal rods, to face the most terrifying beast that lurked inside. The mere thought frightened him to his core. But he would do anything to protect Aekeira. Seeing her so defeated, he couldn't bear to witness her suffering. gαℓησν????????s․çоm, where stories thrive "Please, Keira, let me go. I want to protect you," Emeriel pleaded, tears welling in his eyes. His lower lip quivered with emotion. Aekeira shook her head, and this time, she drew Emeriel into her embrace. He clung to her, burying his face against her neck as tears streamed down his face. "For once in our lives, let me protect you, Keira," Emeriel pleaded. Aekeira stepped back, cupping his cheeks. She offered a watery smile. "I am the elder one here. It is my duty to protect you." Emeriel wanted desperately to continue arguing, but determination returned to Aekeira's eyes. His sister would never back down. "Okay," Emeriel nodded at last, conceding. Aekeira nodded as well, her smile growing wider. "Very well. That's my brave sister," she said, planting a kiss on Emeriel's forehead. "Now, please leave before Madam Livia returns. She stepped away briefly to use the chamber pot in the closest restroom." "Allow me to escort you to the door," Emeriel insisted. Aekeira appeared on the verge of protest, but Emeriel gently took her hand and guided her forward. Eventually, Aekeira gave in, letting him lead the way. Although Aekeira tried to appear composed, her hand trembled in Emeriel's grasp, and her shoulders were tense. She's terrified. New tears welled in Emeriel's eyes, but he quickly blinked them away. If Aekeira had to bear this horrific torment once again, the least he could do was be strong for her. They stopped at the metal gates. Emeriel turned to Aekeira. "I will remain here waiting for you, dear sister." A low rumble emanated from behind the door. Discover our latest featured short drama reel. Watch now and enjoy the story!