ENZUK POV

Hello brittany86 : I don't know where you thought we were in the story. Where did you think the story was? I am not rewriting any chapters, I am just editing and publishing the newest ones. Let me know if I can clarify something for you. Thanks.

Hello other readers! Thanks for reading. Enjoy Enzuk's POV.

I gently guided Isabella back to her cell, feeling relief that I had returned her safely. In that garden, a peculiar sensation had stirred within me. It was an unsettling feeling, one that I couldn't quite put my finger on. There was an eerie presence, like a predator concealing itself in the darkness, refusing to reveal its true nature. Normally, my curiosity would have driven me to explore further, to uncover the secrets hidden within those shadows. However, with Isabella by my side, my priorities shifted entirely. Above all else, her safety became my utmost concern.

Still, the unknown presence concerned me. The garden I took Isabella too was a secluded spot, a refuge where I often sought solace and solitude. Rarely did anyone venture up here. It had become my personal haven for contemplation and introspection. Yet, despite its seclusion, an unfamiliar presence lingered in the air, invading my sanctuary. It was as if an invisible observer watching my every move. Maybe even Isabella.

Perhaps it was merely my imagination playing tricks on me, conjuring up phantoms where none existed. But the nagging feeling persisted, urging me to remain cautious and alert.

My journey back with Isabella had been filled with urgency, my footsteps echoing through the corridors as we raced through tunnels I knew well. In the midst of our haste, Isabella's usually smoothed down hair had become slightly disheveled.

Suppressing a chuckle, I couldn't help but find amusement in her appearance. Her flushed cheeks, a result of both exertion and the adrenaline that had coursed through our veins, added a touch of innocence to her otherwise disheveled state. And her torn dress, a casualty of our embrace, gave the illusion that she had just emerged from the throes of passion.

Isabella's gaze lingered on me, her eyes filled with curiosity and unspoken questions, as I bid her farewell. I could sense her desire to understand the motives behind my actions, but I found myself unwilling to delve into the complexities of keeping her hidden among my people. However, to my surprise, a smile graced her lips, revealing a glimmer of gratitude.

Her unexpected smile brought a sense of relief, as it indicated that she might not press for an explanation. Our eyes locked, silently acknowledging the unspoken agreement to let the matter rest for now.

"I am thankful for you taking me outside today," she spoke, her voice filled with genuine appreciation.

A wave of gratitude washed over me, grateful that she understood my reticence. "You are welcome. I'm glad you enjoyed it. I'm sure Melxa will have you back to your normal routine soon enough," I replied. She didn't look too thrilled about that, but her eyes showed acceptance of her situation.

"I'm sure," she mumbled under her breath.

Leaving her in her confined space, I made my exit without uttering another word. The weight of unspoken secrets hung heavy in the air, but for now, it seemed that Isabella's gratitude and understanding would bridge the gap between us.

"Not sure if that was a smart choice," Melxa's voice said from behind me. His voice was filled with doubt, as he meticulously observed something minuscule through the lens of his microscope. His brow furrowed in concentration, reflecting the weight of his concern.

"She looked pale and sickly," I interjected, my words laced with a touch of defiance. I felt compelled to defend my actions. "She needed the sun," I added, hoping Melxa would understand. "I had to do something."

Melxa's response was swift and resolute, his tone tinged with a hint of apprehension. "She needs to stay hidden," he countered, his conviction unwavering. "Better to be pale due to lack of sun, rather than the clutches of death," he concluded, his words carrying the weight of experience and a deep understanding of the dangers that lurked beyond the shadows. It's dangerous to take her out. You know Vorro has been down here."

I nodded. "Yes. I am aware."

"Yeah well, his presence has become increasingly concerning. And frequent." Melxa expressed with a hint of disgust. "He recently paid an unexpected visit to my laboratory. He claimed to have noticed your fascination with labs and inquired about any new projects I might be working on. I had to swiftly activate a scent cloak to conceal Isabella. I didn't know if he has her scent or not, but his intentions seemed focused on finding something during his visit. The situation is growing increasingly perilous, Enzuk."

"I know."

"Does he have her scent? Does he possess some knowledge about her?"

I let out a weary sigh, contemplating the possibility that he might still carry a faint trace of her scent. After all, he had viciously attacked her on Earth and was relentlessly determined to claim her as his prey. "There is a chance," I admitted, "that he may have retained some remnants of her scent from Earth. He tried to attack her. However, I made it abundantly clear to him that she was my kill and he backed off."

"Well, he's not backing down now. He's always sniffing about. Pun intended. It really is only a matter of time until she is discovered, Enzuk. We can't keep her hidden forever. This needs to be brought up with Aro. I want to protect her, truly, I do. But what if I am unable to conceal her one day? Vorro will kill her. And what's worse is that he will have just cause on his side. If you want to protect the human, you need a more foolproof plan. You need a legal order in place that allows her to live."

Of course, I knew he was right. I nodded in agreement.

Melxa sighed. "No matter how diligently we try to keep her hidden, the truth will inevitably come to light. It's better to bring it to light. If you appear to be hiding something, your case will be weaker. You can't let Vorro expose us; he has been advocating for your position for a long time. Something like this would do it. Treason against the Realm? What better way to bring you down, than to have you accused of treason?" I couldn't help but growl in response.

"Yes, I understand. You're right. I need to confront Aro."

"Sooner rather than later."

"I-"

Before I could continue expressing my thoughts, a voice unexpectedly interrupted us from the doorway. "Excuse me commander," the voice said. I turned to face the guard standing there, realizing that he was one of Aro's trusted men.

Curiosity piqued, I adjusted my posture and asked, "What is it?"

The guard's expression was filled with concern as he relayed the message. "Aro wishes to have a conversation with you," he said, his voice tinged with worry. "He didn't disclose the reason, but he emphasized that he requires your presence immediately."

Melxa and I shared a knowing glance, making sure not to show any emotion. However, deep within me, a feeling of unease started to creep in. Melxa offered me a forced smile and gave a single nod, as if signaling that this was my golden opportunity to confront Aro and reveal Isabella's existence on our planet. The weight of this moment hung heavy in the air, as I prepared myself to take a leap of faith and potentially alter the course of Isabella's world. And mine.

I looked at the guard with determination. "Thank you. I will report to him."

The guard nodded before taking his leave.

"Do you think…" Melxa started.

"It's Vorro. He's behind this. He knows something. And whatever he knows, he has already told Aro." I said with venom in my mouth. "I can't be sure, but I think he saw me with her."

"What?" Melxa said in a strained voice. "When? Where? Just now?"

"I think so," I replied confidently, lifting my head. "Like you said. This was bound to happen sooner or later. The only way to outsmart Vorro is to stay one step ahead of him." I flashed a smile. "How has Isabella been performing on her tests? Is your data ready to present?"

"Well, yes," Melxa responded hesitantly. "But I wasn't quite prepared to showcase her progress yet. She's still in the process of making improvements. I mean I can try. Just give me a little more time."

I let out a disappointed sigh, hoping that Melxa would have some valuable information I could use. "Time is not on our side anymore, Melxa. But don't worry. This is my fault, and I know that. And if anyone has to pay the price, it will be me. I promise, that if your name ever comes up, I will claim that I forced you to follow my orders. I will say that I abused my position to make you keep her alive. I will take full responsibility. Trust me, you will be able to continue your studies on humans without any compromise to your work. Whatever happens to me, happens." Placing my hand on his shoulder, I expressed my gratitude. "Thank you for everything you've done. You truly are a good friend."

"Enzuk," Melxa started.

"I have to leave. It is my duty to take care of this." As I made my way toward the door, a moment of hesitation overcame me. "No matter what fate awaits me, I implore you to do everything in your power to help her. Don't try to save me, Melxa. Save her."

"I promise," Melxa responded. I smiled at him one last time. I knew Melxa would keep his word. We were both nothing if not men of our word.

I sighed. Aro's unexpected request for my presence immediately was concerning. As I walked through the grand hallways, my mind raced with questions. I paused outside the grand hall before pushing open the doors with confidence. Displaying weakness was never option.

Entering Aro's opulent chamber, I found him seated on his ornate throne, his piercing eyes suddenly fixed on me. The atmosphere was tense, and I could sense the weight of his power and authority in the room. Taking another deep breath, I approached him with determination.

"Commander Enzuk," Aro greeted me, his voice laced with a hint of intrigue.

"Aro," I said bowing my head in respect.

"Do you know why I have summoned you?"

My insides cringed at the question. Still, I kept calm as I straightened my body. "It's a pleasure, Lord Aro. But I can't fathom why."

He smirked. "I have been informed of some…peculiar news. Perhaps they are just rumors. You know how much I hate rumors. Pesky things that defile the truth and cause dissension. So, instead of listening to hearsay, I figured I would ask you myself. Do you still not know of what I speak?"

"I must admit, Lord Aro, that I am unaware of the specific news or rumors you are referring to," I replied cautiously, trying to gauge his intentions.

"Hmm," he said as he studied me. Aro was known for his cunning and manipulative nature, always ten steps ahead of everyone else. He lifted his head, addressing me directly. "Commander Enzuk, you have proven yourself to be one of my most reliable and skilled warriors. Your strength is unmatched, second only to my own. I have always had complete faith in you and believed that you possess the necessary qualities to lead with great success."

I expressed my gratitude, responding respectfully, "Thank you, Sir."

Curiosity tinged his words as he questioned me further, "Do you believe that I have misplaced my trust in you?"

Confidently, I replied, "No, Sir."

Satisfied with my answer, he leaned in closer, his voice filled with intensity. "That's good to hear. Now, imagine if I were to inquire about any prohibited activities occurring without my knowledge. What would your response be?"

"I would say that there is nothing illegal happening, Sir. I assure you that I have always upheld the law and followed your orders to the best of my abilities."

Aro's lips curled into a sly smile, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of amusement and curiosity. "Indeed, Commander. I couldn't agree more. Any rumors about you sheltering a human must be just that. Rumors." My heart raced as I again tried to decipher his intentions. Regardless, I knew I had to remain composed and assertive.

"I. I preserved one human alive after the raid on Earth."

He tipped his head to the side, his eyes narrowing. "Not just any human, though, right? One that was already judged by the realm to die?"

I slowly nodded once.

"And yet, you preserved her. Were your orders not clear?"

"Yes, they were clear."

He sat up abruptly, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. "Then why, pray tell, does that human still draw breath? And why was I not made aware of this? You have deliberately concealed this from me?"

Vorro's voice emerged from the darkness, filled with a mixture of resentment and revelation. "Because he harbors genuine emotions for her," he explained. "I witnessed their intimate interactions firsthand, and his intentions were far from indifferent."

"He was acting under my orders," my eyes widened as Melxa's voice reached my ears. I swiftly turned to him wondering what he was doing as he walked toward us. No. I would not let him throw himself on the sword. Not for me. I shook my head at Melxa.

Aro's eyes drifted to Melxa. "Melxa. What an unfortunate surprise. But explain. What do you mean?" He said in a low tone. "Enzuk is a captain, not someone you can order around. And besides that, what makes you think you have jurisdiction to disobey the Realm.? You forget your place."

"I discovered her, barely alive. Enzuk completed his mission. He had stabbed her, and she would have perished if I hadn't saved her. When Enzuk learned that I had rescued her, I claimed that I had been ordered to study her. I lied. That made him back off. In the name of my experiments, I asked him to interact with her since she knew him from Earth. I believed observing their interactions would aid my research. Enzuk agreed. "

Vorro looked between Melxa and me as he awaited Aro's harsh response. Aro's gaze also shifted between Melxa and me, his expression a mix of confusion and disbelief. I could tell that he, too, was struggling to comprehend the extent of Melxa's sacrifice and the truthfulness of his words. The room fell silent, the tension thickening with each passing second.

"Is this true?" Aro looked at me. Most of it was. I started to nod but Aro continued. "Even if what Melxa says is true, why didn't you speak with me first? Why did take orders from him? Who is he to defy my orders?" Damn Melxa. Why did he have to take the blame the way he did? I couldn't admit he just lied to Aro, that would be an instant death for him. I had to go along with his story.

"Melxa's words are true. But you are right. I should have checked the order. To be honest, I believed the orders because I felt that Melxa's work could be beneficial."

"In what way," he said as he rubbed his brow between two fingers.

"Sir. Lord Aro, this is ridiculous. Can you not see, they have clearly been working together. Both of them are-" Aro held up his hand, and Vorro went silent. I could see the anger and disappointment in Aro's eyes as he awaited my response. Gathering my thoughts, I carefully chose my words.

"Lord Aro, Melxa's work seemed promising in terms of its potential benefits. He had presented his ideas and findings to me, and they appeared to align with our goals. I believed that by following his orders, we could achieve our objectives more efficiently. It's no secret that he believes that humans could be tamed and thus integrated into society. Some have already been integrated, as you know. It has always been our goal to facilitate peace with all races. That is the Omna way. War was needed with humans because humans never wanted peace. But this human, although being capable of causing much destruction has shown submission and not acted on the qualities within her."

Aro's brow furrowed deeper as he listened, clearly not satisfied with my explanation. Vorro, unable to contain his frustration, interjected again.

"Lord Aro, it is evident that they have been collaborating behind your back. Their actions speak louder than words. They both have been..."

Aro swiftly raised his hand, silencing Vorro once more. His gaze remained fixed on me, demanding a more detailed explanation.

"Go on" Aro repeated, his voice dripping with disdain and suspicion. It was clear that he wanted to understand the extent of my involvement with Melxa and the potential consequences of our collaboration.

Taking a deep breath, I met Aro's gaze, determined to convey the truth.

"Lord Aro, I must admit that there were discussions and exchanges of ideas between Melxa and me. However, I never intended to undermine your authority or betray your trust. I believed that by exploring Melxa's work, we could potentially uncover new possibilities and advancements for our cause. But I realize now that I should have consulted with you first, and I deeply regret not doing so."

As I finished speaking, a heavy silence filled the room. Aro's eyes continued to bore into mine, searching for any signs of deception. I could only hope that my sincerity and remorse would be enough to salvage the trust that had been damaged.

"Lord Aro. If I may speak," Melxa started.

"No. You may not. I have had enough of your theories on humans. Do not seek to spout your ideas here. You're a fool if you think I will let you speak here. You disobeyed the orders of the Realm. You lied to my top warrior. And now you wish to justify your actions, in the name of science. Treason is what you committed. Treason is deserving of death."

I swallowed hard. "I supported his work. I still do. Please. Rather than treason, may we call it a risk with good intensions? He has made tremendous advancements with her. If you could only see what he has done. There is clear evidence that while some humans possess the ability to be destructive, they can choose peace. Isabella is proof of that."

He tipped his head to the side. "Isabella?" he repeated. "You know her name."

Shit. "Well. I know her name from Earth. I communicated often with her."

"No, you formed a bond with her," Vorro interjected, his tone dripping with disdain. "And if my words are false, then bring the human out. Give her the death she deserved. Slit her throat here. Let her blood flow for all the Omna we have lost to the humans. And let Melxa continue his studies with the humans he already has. Pease, Lord Aro. Let me finish the mission. You won't mind me finishing what you were supposed to do, would you Enzuk?"

I felt my jaw tense at Vorro's cruel suggestion, my fists clenching in anger. The thought of harm coming to Isabella was unbearable. Would I kill Vorro? Absolutely. He would have to kill me before he got to Isabella. This was a performance, but all bets were off if he tried to put his hands on her. I would crush him.

"Lord Aro. Let me do this. I guarantee he will seek to defend her. As he does now," Vorro taunted, his voice laced with arrogance. He was right. But I bit my tongue. Now was not the time to lose control of my emotions. A stark difference between Vorro and I.

"That is my work!" Melxa exclaimed, his voice trembling with anger. He too felt a surge of protectiveness toward Isabella. And I knew from experience he never liked his dedication to his research challenged.

"Illegal work!" Vorro shouted, his voice echoing through the hall. "The human should be put to death, and Enzuk stripped of his title-"

"Enough." Lord Aro's voice boomed, cutting through the tension in the room. He rose from his throne, his gaze piercing as he looked directly at Vorro. "You do not pass orders in my hall. I promote and demote, not you. And while I appreciate you bringing these actions to my attention, do not think I am unaware of your underlying intentions. Do you think I am blind and do not see what your motives are?"

The room fell into a heavy silence, the weight of Lord Aro's words hanging in the air. It was clear that his authority and insight surpassed Vorro's manipulative tactics. The power dynamics within the room shifted, leaving Vorro exposed and vulnerable as he quieted down. Aro's eyes darted to me and then Melxa. "Leave us. I wish to speak with Enzuk. Alone."

Aro's voice commanded, cutting through the silence like a sharp blade. His tone left no room for argument or hesitation. Melxa and Vorro exchanged glaring glances before they filed out of the grand hall, their footsteps echoing against the marble floor as they filed out of the grand hall. The heavy wooden doors closed behind them, sealing off the outside world and leaving Aro and I alone. Aro's presence loomed over me, his piercing gaze locked onto mine. It was as if he could see through the layers of my facade, peering into the depths of my soul.

As the silence stretched on, I couldn't help but feel apprehension. Still, I concealed my emotions and waited for him to speak.

"I am unaware of the precise events that have occurred here or the reason behind your desire to protect this human. In the past, you have never shown any support for Melxa's endeavors, nor have you concealed your contempt for humans. What prompts you now to spare this particular human?"

"It's purely academic. Curiosity. I have always believed that Melxa's work was a futile pursuit. My interactions with humans have consistently been marked by violence. However, during my time on Earth, I encountered the human scientist. And she incessantly spoke of peace, despite possessing the capability to inflict death. Peace was her utmost priority. When I heard Melxa mention his orders to study her, I surprisingly found myself supporting his endeavors this time. Because I personally witnessed her unwavering desire for peace. It's definitely worth investigating, don't you think?"

Aro smiled, his eyes narrowing with a glimmer of admiration. "You have always been a formidable adversary, Commander. I respect your unwavering commitment to the truth. And line of reasoning. But, you are aware that the Realm has already made its decision. Melxa is a fool, who allows the sentiment for humans to cloud his judgment. And emotions. I don't mind his tampering with humans. In fact, his work has been helpful in creating well trained submissive humans in our society. However, I do not support his work with this human."

"Why not? His work has already proved fruitful. I'd be lying if I didn't say that I am at least curious if she can be redeemed. It could start a whole new perspective. Humans can be tamed, and qualities bred out of them if given the right incentive and environment."

Aro's contemplative expression deepened as he pondered my words, his hand resting on his chin. He seemed genuinely intrigued by the possibility I had presented.

"It's at least worth exploring," I added.

Drawing in a slow, deliberate breath, Aro fixed his intense gaze upon me, his eyes piercing into my very soul. "You claim that Melxa has achieved remarkable advancements," he stated, his tone demanding confirmation. "I would like to witness these advancements firsthand before I make any decisions. I sincerely hope that when you say 'great advancements,' you truly mean it."

His words carried a weight of caution, as if warning me not to exaggerate or deceive. Aro's determination to scrutinize Melxa's work was evident, his desire to ascertain its true value unwavering. "I will observe this human," he declared, his voice firm and resolute. "But let it be clear, if I find his work to be worthless, I will not hesitate to end the human's life right then and there. Do you understand the gravity of my words?"

The air grew heavy with the weight of Aro's ultimatum, his unwavering commitment to discerning the worthiness of Melxa's achievements. It was clear that he would not tolerate any deception or disappointment.

"Yes. That sounds fair."

With a smug expression playing on his lips, he confidently declared, "I find no allure in what you think is fair; my sole pursuit is the unadulterated truth. Considering our longstanding relationship, I am open to exploring what you have to offer. But, I hold no sympathy for that human; my sole focus lies in witnessing Melxa's exceptional work."

"Understood."

Aro averted his gaze from me, battling with a mix of disappointment and anger. "You understand that Vorro is vying for your position. And I can't fault him for that. I appreciate his eagerness to prove himself, but he lacks control over his emotions. As for leadership, well, in my opinion, he still acts like a young boy. He still has much to learn. There's a reason why I keep you in your current position. You are devoted to the Realm, and you fearlessly achieve success in missions where others fail."

Aro slowly approached me, his flowing silver cape trailing behind him. He stopped in front of me, wearing a pitying expression. "Don't force me to replace you with one that is inexperienced. One who still has much to learn in the way of leadership. The shame would be on you."

"Yes, Lord Aro," I responded, my voice filled with anticipation. "I truly hope that you perceive the same brilliance in Melxa's work as I do."

He scoffed dismissively, his doubt evident. "We shall see," he retorted coldly. "You may go now."

"Thank you, Sir," I acknowledged gratefully, turning to make my exit. Relief washed over me, knowing that the truth was finally revealed. The burden of hiding Isabella's existence was lifted, but a new battle emerged - protecting her from Aro's wrath. I desperately hoped that Melxa had conducted extensive research and had something substantial to present.

"Enzuk," Aro's voice reverberated through the air, catching me off guard. I halted; my hand frozen on the doorknob. "You are not to see that human again. You will not go near her, until I have made a decision about her fate. You will not join me in my inspection of the human, either." His words struck me with a forceful grip, causing my grip on the handle to tighten. Stay away from Isabella? The thought was unbearable. I had already been secretly meeting her, but now my actions would be scrutinized not just by Vorro, but by Aro, who was far from foolish.

Turning to face Aro, I could sense his anticipation for my protest. I clasped my hands behind my back and nodded once. "Yes, Sir."

"Good," he smiled. "And I expect my orders to be followed this time."

"Absolutely," I replied, suppressing my seething anger before it could be detected. His words meant that I would have to keep my distance from Isabella until he had seen her. But what if he decided to kill her once he did? No, I couldn't allow that to happen. Why my body had decided to claim her as my mate, I would never know. Perhaps it was an illness that wouldn't fade, or maybe she had managed to get under my skin. Whatever the reason, I knew I couldn't stand idly by and let her be killed without a fight. Even if it meant going against Aro, which seemed ludicrous. Yet, that was my unwavering resolve. I didn't mind Aro seeing Isabella, and I could even maintain my distance for a while. However, there was no way I would let him take her life. He would have to kill me first.

I only hoped that Melxa had some promising results to present.

A mischievous grin slowly crept across his face, revealing a hint of malevolence as his eyes locked onto mine. It was as if he relished in the anticipation of his words causing a greater impact on me. However, I was well trained. I had the ability to conceal my true emotions with perfection. My immediate compliance, devoid of any visible reaction, must have caught him off guard, leaving him momentarily perplexed.

Nonchalantly, he waved his hand dismissively, as if to brush off the significance of our encounter. With a calm demeanor, I opened the door and exited. As I softly closed the door, the sound echoed in my ears, a mere facade masking the intense fury that threatened to consume me. Inside a seething anger simmered within me. I hated being denied access to Isabella. But, it was for her own good. I had to think about her wellbeing, not mine.

Still, the insatiable rage pulsating through my veins demanded an outlet, a release from the turmoil inside. I yearned for the thrill of the hunt, the satisfaction of a kill, anything that could momentarily subdue the fiery storm brewing within me. It was time to go hunting.

There you have it. Thoughts?