For Centuries - Season 1 [Completed]

Episode 32

"Duplex", Small Black

The plants in Aidan's courtyard tried to survive in the cold winter breeze but there was a warm light coming from the glass wall of his house. As I could not see anyone, I pushed the door gently, saying "Hello".

Aidan appeared in the hallway and smiled. "Good morning, my love." He took me in his arms and kissed me on the neck. I would have lingered on but we did not have much time.

"I came to see you and see how James is, but I cannot stay very long as you know," I said.

"The curse, it is not over?"

"Not yet."

He frowned. "What happened?"

"Do not worry about me. I will be fine. How is James?"

"He's ok. He's sleeping right now. The next couple of days will be complicated, but he's in a safe place here. He cannot hurt anyone. Please, tell me what happened with the Council."

"They called for old ways, a specific article of the code. They think that I am a danger to the community because I am now acquainted with vampires. So they want me to fight against the current leader of the Council."

"What? To fight?"

"Yes. The Council is a chivalry order, and for them, a ritual duel would state what to do."

He crossed his arms. "I don't understand. Why would they take the risk of a duel?"

"I know it seems preposterous, but I am one of the oldest and I was close to the immortal who created the Order and the Council. They are far too respectful of codes of honor and hierarchies to simply kill me."

"I am coming with you then."

"Absolutely not. Do not intervene. We cannot have an open war between vampires and immortals. It would be completely irresponsible."

"What am I supposed to do? Wait here while you risk your life?"

"Exactly. I am sorry. There is nothing you can do."

"That is unacceptable."

I took his hand. "Please. I am begging you. Respect my wishes. And have faith in me. I can win."

"I know you can. But I do not trust them."

"They will follow the rules."

He stayed quiet for a second and sighed. "I love you."

"I love you too."

I kissed him on the lips and walked away.

When I came home, I took off my coat and went straight to my swords collection. Each of them had a specific story behind it, but I  particularly loved an ancient katana, which had been made for me by an incredible artist of a man many centuries ago. It was light and elegant. It was my favorite. But I had not used it, except for training, in a very long time. I wanted to take it in my hand to contemplate the perspective of the duel, but when I reached the sword display, I gasped in shock: Amaury's sword had disappeared.