Alex sighed. He knew Nyaira. Enough to know that she always targeted the weaker link to get what she wanted. Vampires, when unable to convince people, would threaten the people they cared about to get what they wanted.
He had to go after Victoria, but he knew it would be difficult with his chest in this state. He cursed himself under his breath. His chest was healing, but not fast enough.
"Illyad!" He called out. "I know you can hear me!"
A figure emerged from, seemingly nowhere.

"What is it?" Illyad asked rather shortly. Evidently Alex had disturbed him from something important.

"Victoria. The girl. She's in danger. Nyaira, an old acquaintance of mine, is pursuing her. I can't go after her in this condition. I need your help." He admitted, though reluctant to do so.

"You want me to protect the girl?" Illyad asked.

"Please." Alex begged.

"And what do you offer me in return?"

"Anything." Alex told him. "Whatever you want. It's yours if I can give it to you."

"You know what I want, vampire. I am a warlock, and your essence is particularly rare. A remorseful vampire is a rare find indeed."

"Fine. You can have it." Alex told him, knowing it meant further injury, but not caring at this point. "But not until she is safe."

"And I have your word?"

"I promise you." Alex told him. "As soon as Victoria is safe from harm, you can take it."

"Okay then. I shall return for you." And at that, Illyad disappeared like a mirage.

Alex began moving toward the mouth of the alley, wincing as he did so. He knew he needed time to heal, but he wasn't sure Illyad would be able to protect Victoria for long, and he needed to make sure she was safe. He would heal on the way to finding her.