[ He can't stop the reflexive surge of irritation- he hates being pitied, like that will do anything for his misfortune. But Adelis stamps it down, swallows it, because despite how he acts, he knows the intentions are...better than that.

The fact he doesn't pull his hand away says enough. ]

We decided to leave the next day. To drink a Kindred's blood is to be bound to them, depending on the amount, and I would sooner run then be left to follow his will. It hadn't been much, so I was still myself.

[ Then he goes quiet for a moment, and his free, blackened hand raises to the side of his neck. ]

But like I said. You can't escape someone who can enter your dreams, and even harder still to resist someone who your mind compels you to listen to, who is far, far stronger than you. [ His eyes flicker, visceral hatred in their depths. This is one weakness he would not forgive himself for. ] I woke up...this. I did not take it well.