-The Land of ETERNALS-

-Part 11-

Alaric's POV

I was sitting in Eric's living room, trying to wrap my head around the mysterious deaths of the two boys. It seemed unlikely that a wild animal would be responsible, especially in the middle of the city. How could such a creature find its way here?

As I pondered over these thoughts, Eric approached me with a mischievous grin on his face. "Hey, Alaric, why don't you stay with us for a few days?....everyone's back from Tokyo. It'll be a blast!" he exclaimed, I was surprised because he wasn't fond of the idea of me going with them to Tokyo at first.

Fiorella and Alora joined in. Alora tugged at Eric's sleeve and pleaded, "Please, Eric! Take us to the Land of Eternals! It'll be amazing!"

I couldn't help but chuckle at Alora's request. Suddenly, her face lit up with realization. "Wait a minute, Alaric," she said, a puzzled expression on her face. "You're laughing as if you know about the Land of Eternals. But you didn't even know about it before!"

I took a deep breath and decided it was time to reveal a part of myself to them. "Well, my dear friends," I began, a hint of mystery in my voice, "there are certain things about me that you don't know. You see, I'm a vampire, just like Eric."

Their eyes widened in astonishment, and Fiorella gasped. "A vampire? No way! How is that possible?"

Eric grinned mischievously, "And you know what's even more fascinating? Alaric here is not just any vampire. He's the son of the Ruler of the Land of Eternals."

Alora's eyes widened even further, her astonishment growing. "No way! You come from a royal lineage? That's extraordinary!"

"You think so?"

She nodded and couldn't help but chuckle, the sound escaping her lips like a melodic chime. God, Alora was so beautiful. Her laughter was infectious, filling the air with a warmth that mirrored the soft glow of the setting sun. I loved her so much and I wanted her to know that. Honestly, I wanted to shower her with so much love and care that she feels overwhelmed by it.

Alora's POV

We all stood side by side, my heart pounding with excitement as we teleported to the Land of Eternals. The air crackled with energy, and a sense of wonder filled the atmosphere. I glanced at Alaric. Though he was mysterious and sometimes cold and mean...I think I was starting to fall for him. It was more than a crush now. I was staring at him lost in my own thoughts and yes, the unexpected happened. He caught me staring at him. He smiled at me and my heart skipped a beat. He then moved forward looking at the tall trees. Though he had been here before since he's a vampire too. He enjoyed every single view as if it was his first time.

Eric, ever the charismatic guide, led us on a grand tour of the mystical realm. I and Fiorella were like two giddy children, our eyes wide with awe as we took in the breathtaking sights. The vibrant landscapes unfolded before us, revealing lush meadows, sparkling lakes, and towering ancient trees.

"This place is incredible!" I exclaimed, my voice filled with genuine wonder. "I can't believe it's real!"

Fiorella's eyes shimmered with delight as she nodded in agreement. "It's like stepping into a dream, Eric. I never imagined anything could be so magical."

Eric beamed with pride, his voice carrying a hint of mischief. "Oh, you haven't seen anything yet! Wait until you see the dorms."

As we approached the dormitories, Eric explained the significance of the Zenith Festival. "These dorms are reserved for participants during the festival," he said. "Teams of four are formed, and they undergo various tasks that boost their strength and unlock hidden powers. It's an exhilarating experience!"

Fiorella's face lit up with anticipation. "So, it's like a game, right? A game that makes us stronger?"

Eric chuckled, his eyes twinkling. "You could say that, Ella. It's a thrilling adventure that challenges you and helps you unearth your true potential." I realized how he had started calling Fiorella by her nickname, Ella, too. And she didn't mind it.

"It all feels like a game, not gonna lie." I remarked playfully, a smile tugging at the corners of my lips.

We explored further, venturing into hidden nooks and crannies, discovering hidden waterfalls and secret groves. 

My heart fluttered as I stole glances at Alaric, a mixture of curiosity and affection brewing within me. There was something about him, something familiar and yet undiscovered. 

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden hue across the land, Alaric excused himself, his gaze lingering on me for a moment. "I have something I need to attend to," he said, his voice laced with a touch of regret and frustration. "I'll catch up with you later." He said as his eyes met mine.

I watched him depart, a hint of longing in my eyes. There was an unspoken connection between us, a bond that transcended time and distance. I couldn't shake the feeling that our destinies were intertwined in ways I couldn't yet comprehend. I still didn't forget about what he had said about his past. 

Eric, ever the attentive friend, sensed my emotions. He placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Don't worry, Alora," he reassured me. "We'll have an incredible time here."

I nodded as we all explored the land further and got amazed by its beauty.

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-With every beat of my heart, I whisper your name, for you are the melody that resonates within my very being-

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