Erevus was just returning from one of his other villages after overseeing their progress of securing their borders, when he saw Stefen pacing in front of the castle doors. His hands ran through his hair clenching the sides, then ran over it again.
Erevus grew weary and slowed his approach.
“What is it, Stefen?”
Stefen spun towards him. His face was ashen, if that was even possible for vampires. His eyes were wide. He opened his mouth, but no words came out.
“Speak,” Erevus demanded. He already knew it was bad news, so Stefen might as well get on with it.
“I didn’t know anyone was in there. No one saw her go in.” He started speaking faster and faster. “No one even saw her or heard her until it was too late. We never thought to look, she was so quiet and no one saw her go in. I trie
