Orelie

*25*

*25*

I woke up on my own the next morning. It was well before sunrise, but something forced me awake. A nightmare. I held my arms close to me as I fought for air. I was drenched in sweat and my throat felt tight.

I gulped down a deep breath before turning and lighting my oil lamp. More sweat fell down my neck. I have to check my arm, but I'm scared.

Slowly, I looked down and a wave of relief fell over me. The brand and scar looked exactly the same. It wasn't real; nothing happened.

Though, I don't want to go back to sleep and experience that again. I changed clothes, slipped on my cloak and shoes, then headed out to walk around for a little while, grabbing the blanket Fenin had given me. I need to clear my head.

I walked with my head down and my arms wrapped around me for comfort. The nightmare flashed into my head, making me flinch.

Crae was half way shifted into his Demon form and was saying he needed my blood and that he craved it. I had tried to get away, but he held my branded arm tightly. Next thing I knew, he was sinking his teeth into me and sucking me dry.

Is that my fear, or will it actually happen? I shivered and gripped the blanket tighter. Whichever one it is, I don't want it.

"Kyrene?" I jumped at the voice. "What are you doing up so early, child? It's still an hour before sunrise."

"I'm sorry, Professor." I walked closer to Rodnik. "I had a nightmare and didn't want to fall back asleep."

He waved his hand for me to follow him, his other holding a small flame for light. "Walk with me, then. I'll keep you company until the dining room opens."

"Thank you," I stuck close to him, liking the company.

"Would you like to talk about the nightmare?" Rodnik asked after a while of silence.

I shook my head. "It's too scary."

"I've read that for some trained Orelie, a dream or nightmare can actually be a vision." He said as I hung my head. "We both already know you're exceptionally gifted."

I sighed. "Crae was halfway shifted into his Demon form and was demanding for my blood. He then proceeded to drain all of my blood from my body. Professor, I felt every bit of it. I felt the pain. All the other times I was asleep, but one night I actually went after him and he fed from me in the forest. I felt that pain again in my dream!"

"Calm down, it's alright," he said softly. "From what I'm understanding, it's just a simple nightmare conjured up from past trauma and what you had gone through. There's nothing to worry about."

"Are you sure?" My voice cracked from unshed tears.

"I'm positive that you have nothing to worry about," he assured me with a smile. "How about we get a glass of water, yeah? I know how to get in early." He winked and led us to the dining room.

At the doors, he knocked four times, pausing between the second and third knock. The door opened and we were let in.

"Good morning, Professor Rodnik. You're up early. Would you like some coffee?"

"No, thank you," he waved his hand at the offer. "Just two waters, please."

"Of course." The person walked off as Rodnik and I claimed a seat.

"So, why are you up so early?" I asked.

"It's my turn to make the rotations." He explained. "The other professors and I go around and make sure nothing is out of place, and to make sure the students are in bed. I usually take the timeframe between three and six in the morning."