The Mixes

Chapter Three — The Rogue Vampire

Elyria burst into the empty street, chest heaving. The city lights blurred, her senses flickering between witch and vampire instinct. She leaned against a lamppost as the world tilted.

Footsteps approached.

She spun around, sparks forming in her palm—until she recognized him.

The rogue vampire from the alley.

He walked with quiet confidence, wiping blood from his knuckles.

“You’re welcome,” he said.

Elyria glared. “I didn’t ask for help.”

“You also didn’t die. You’re welcome anyway.”

She hated that he was right.

“Who were they?” she demanded.

“Trackers,” he answered. “They work for the Vampire Council. Or… used to. Hard to say these days.”

Her stomach dropped. “Why would they hunt me?”

He studied her eyes—really studied them. Like he knew exactly what she was.

“You’re a hybrid,” he said softly. “Half witch, half vampire. That alone is illegal.”

“I didn’t choose what I am.”

“Doesn’t matter. To some people your blood is power. To others, it’s a threat.”

Great. Just great.

Elyria crossed her arms. “Who are you?”

He hesitated before answering.

“Raven.”

Just that. One name.

“Elyria,” she said reluctantly.

“I know,” Raven replied. “They’ve been searching for you for years.”

Her heart skipped. “Why? Because of my sister?”

Raven’s expression sharpened. “Sister?”

So he didn’t know.

Elyria looked away, voice trembling. “Someone took her when we were babies. I only just remembered. I think she’s alive.”

Raven stepped closer. “If you’re right, then finding her won’t be simple. Someone hid you both for a reason.”

Elyria forced herself to meet his gaze. “Can you help me?”

Raven didn’t answer at first. He looked torn—like helping her would cost him something.

Finally, he nodded once.

“I can help. But you need to understand something first.”

Elyria frowned. “What?”

He leaned in, voice low and serious.

“There’s a prophecy about twins like you. And if your sister is alive… you’re not the only ones looking for her.”

The night suddenly felt colder.

The world suddenly felt bigger.

And Elyria realized her journey was just beginning.