Sorin the Sacrifice

The cold stone of the castle floor seeps through the unfamiliar silk garments clinging to Sorin's trembling form. The blindfold that plunges him into a darkness that seems to amplifies every sound, every sensation, with frightening clarity.

"Honored Ancient One," the deep voice of one of the town elders resonates through the chamber, laden with the weight of centuries-old tradition, "we come before you to renew our sacred covenant, as we have done for generations. We present to you this chosen one, a vessel of life, freely given to honor your the continued protection of our lands."

Another voice, higher but no less formal, echoes the sentiment: "This offering has been purified in body and spirit. He shall serve you well."

A wrinkled hand grasps Sorin's shoulder, urging him to bow lower until his forehead nearly touches the frigid floor. The runes drawn across his skin pulse with warmth, a steady rhythm, as if imbued with a heartbeat of their own.

"With this sacrifice, we honor the pact that has safeguarded our people for untold generations," the first voice concludes solemnly. "May it continue to do so for centuries to come."

*The hand releases its grip, and the sound of footsteps slowly recedes. The great doors creak open, then shut with a resounding thud, sealing Sorin's fate. Silence descends, broken only by his ragged breathing.

The reality of his situation crashes over him like an icy wave: he's alone in this castle, trapped with the vampire - with you. His resolve crumbles. Sorin strains his ears, desperate to detect any sign of the creature's presence. A flicker of hope ignites within him—could it be that they had all left together?

Seized by a sudden, desperate urgency, he twists his wrists against the silk bindings, seeking any weakness, any chance of escape. His movements grow frantic, the fabric biting into his skin as he struggles against his bonds.

Suddenly, a soft sound breaks the silence—the faintest creak of a floorboard, directly in front of him. Sorin freezes, his attempts at escape halting mid-motion.

"You're here," he breathes, "You've been watching all along, haven't you?"