** Ariel’s Mother’s Journal**

Ariel looking through her mother’s things when she had the time; she found a shoe box with a old tattered book. It was her mother’s journal that was centuries old. She also found letters and notes and old pictures. She smiled as she remembered the past. 

“Momma why did you keep so many secrets from me; some I understand and some I wish I just knew why.”

She started reading when her mother fell in love with her father and her father had written her notes. The two were definitely in love. Her mother revealed a lot about the life her parents lived while on the run. She kept teasing until she found a certain piece of her mother’s love affair with Vlad. She couldn’t believe it her mother had a son. She had a half brother named Damien Warrier; he was Vlad’s son. She looked at the year again and memories came back to the months she was on missions down in Mexico and Texas. As she read on she realized that while she was in Greece and all over Europe her mother had Damien. Oh how she was enraged why didn’t her mother tell her; angry tears of betrayal as she kept reading her book. 

❧

Her mother wrote Ariel a letter. She figured one day Ariel would find the journal:

Dear darlin Ariel,

If you are reading this then my premonition was right; and I am no longer with you. You were given a life that many could never understand; I cannot begin to say how sorry I am for all the lies and secrecy, but I have no regrets. I have made my peace when I saw what kind of woman you had become. You have learned about humanity and humility; that’s something that cannot be bought. 

If you had learned Irina Krüger had your father killed; you would have never married Friedrich. If you never fought in Europe; and witnessed for yourself, how creatures were not held accountable. Would you have gone into criminal justice; no. If you had lived in Transylvania from the get go; you would have never understood how human interactions worked. Many of the Elders are jaded by past history as well as your Uncle Vlad. Your drive for justice for all species is why many have respect for you; not even I had that. I am in no way excusing myself; you have every right to be angry. You probably think you being sent to Europe was planned. I have included my orders from those of the counsel; including those of your uncles. So as you preferred is evident of why you were sent. You’re going to Greece to train with the Amazons; that was my request. They were eager to meet you and I hope they trained you like you were their own. By now you would have found out who Creed really is; and now it’s another secret to be uncovered. Your brother’s name is Damien Warrier and he has handle the family’s business affairs for a long time. He doesn’t know he has a sister or knew about your lifestyle. You may wonder why you were lied to and was never told anything about him... all I can say is that it wasn’t about favoritism. I thought your gifts came from Vlad’s lineage but when I saw he was not like you at all then I realized your father’s side has the gift. Now the task at hand if you’re willing to take it. Lachlan and Rayburn are not true brothers. Lachlan’s family has books that need to be unlocked. My visions are you daughters are advancing in their gifts. They will have questions; and I know, that you  would want them to know their full legacy. Vlad wants an army and it’s up to you how far you will build his army. He doesn’t know about Damien; I leave that up to you to tell him, or wait. Your father’s family is a necessity. Even for your own good. Rayburn will know where you need to go to unlock your legacy. As you go through the past you’ll learn about why there were so many secrets. Those rings with my dragon order ring; wear them when you find your brother. He has a set to. There will be no mistaken identity because those rings are one of a kind. Your father’s rings were made for the family he had always wanted. One day you shall take your children to Greece. When you’re ready to go someone will be waiting for you. 

I love you my darling; even if you hate me for all these lies and secrets, understand cards were being played. 

❧

She read the letter and over and then searching through files and records; she found where her brother lived. She paced the room and made a phone call to set out to go to Chicago. She looked for Friedrich in his study. The children were doing their homework when she came into the room.

“Hello my lovelies, daddy and I need to talk, please.”

Their children ran out the room and went down to pester their uncle. She handed her mother’s letter to her husband; and then walked to the tall window.

“I need to go to Chicago for a few days then head to Florida.”

“I see from this you probably would want to go alone?”

“No, I want you to go with me to Chicago. I have papers to pick up; however, Florida I need you to be my backer.”

“So leave the kids here?”

“They haven’t seen their uncle Rayburn and his wife or their cousins in forever; I thought we could leave them there, for a week.”

“You never ask me to go on missions; why now my dear?”

“You spent a hundred and fifty years watching me without me catching on. I need someone to be there but not be seen. I trust you and not many others. With all these secrets and betrayal; you’re the one that I know that I can trust. I don’t know who else knows what and right now that’s unacceptable. I leave tonight and I’m asking you for help.”

He looked at his wife and knew she never asked for anything and for her to ask he would not let her down.

“Let me make a few phone calls and we will leave.”

“I will get the children’s suit cases ready. Have one of the servants get the kids ready. If my uncle ask where are we going; tell him I got some leads.”

❧

Vlad was on an important phone call when Friedrich informed him they were leaving for a week; they had some sources to follow. He put his call on hold, “Ariel asked you to be her back up?”

“Yes. Like the old days when she put herself as bait; I had the pleasure of being her sharp shooter.”

“She expects trouble?”

“She does not know exactly; I do know she is preparing in case. We have a cell phone in case we need back up. We are taking the kids to Rayburn; giving you and Elizabeth some time alone.”

Vlad eyes staring at Friedrich and reading him; he knew they were up to something.

“You know as a counsel and as an Elder she has to go by orders. Being my niece she still has to comply. If there is something going on; you have obligations.”

“Her mother had left something for her to find; books that she needs to acquire. She is just making sure that no one else is planning to take her by surprise. It’s a week of investigations and coming back home.”

Vlad still staring at him, “My dear niece, Mihaela Ariel Warrier-Krüger and you Friedrich Krüger enjoy your trip. I hope you both find out what Rachel had left for Ariel. I’ll be here waiting for a detailed, compte rendu.”

“We plan gathering intelligence and getting back as soon as possible. Mihaela doesn’t like to be away from our children too long.”

❧

Friedrich nodded and left the room and headed downstairs where his wife was already waiting for him. They stopped at the shop where Ariel did her research. She quickly dropped off her mother’s chest and boxes. She grabbed the rings and put them on. The flight to Scotland she kept her children occupied until she got to her uncle’s mansion. Once the kids were in their room. She went to the room that her mother would stay in. She looked around searching for any clues. She didn’t find anything not even in the closet. She almost got up until she saw the dresser. She moved the dresser; it wasn’t a secret passage but she felt around until she found some cards. The last part of her mother’s letter mentioned cards were being played. In the box was a key and she put the cards in her bag; Ariel closed the door and headed back down with the others. Her mother never played cards; however Ariel did. Her mother did say she would be leaving clues. She almost wished her mother would just tell her what needed to be said. Yet her mother was secretive but why? What made her mother so secretive even to her own daughter. After spending time with her uncle and her family; she and Friedrich went on their way. 

❧

Vlad drinking his wine waited for Rayburn to call and when he did, Vlad was waiting, “She went into her mother’s room; she never went in there especially after her mother died.”

“Friedrich was keeping something and she didn’t tell you anything?”

“No Vlad. She put her children to sleep and went into her mother’s room; she stayed in there for at least an hour. I never go in there because it was my brother’s room.”

“Friedrich mentioned books from Lachlan. She had her mother’s belongings sent here and the last few days she had been encumbered with everything from her mother’s home.”

“You think she has stumbled onto something from the past?”

“With Mihaela, she does not let on. Her mother’s secrets has resurfaced. We shall see what our niece is up to.”

Vlad annoyed so he called his agent in the States, “Florin Agoston, I got a mission for you; go to Maine. The old cabin check it out. See what you can find out and then see who is in Chicago; do not let Ariel or Friedrich know they are being watched.”

❧

On the plane Ariel was going through the cards and then looking at the key. She remembered these cards; she learned how to play poker and actually had gotten really good. She went over and over in her mind while going through the cards. She was missing something because she wondered why the cards were mentioned as she looked over and over, “Mom what are trying to tell me?”

Cards were being played was repeated over and over until she realized a card was missing. The Queen of Spades was missing. Her mother would never lose Ariel’s things; Ariel’s mother, Rachel kept everything. Ariel started thinking of the queen of spades; she represented judgement by the willingness to work and the degree of devotion in quest for wisdom. The Queen of Spades was seen as an disciplinarians. She looked for Catholic Churches and one caught her eye. They were taking a detour to 700 West Adams Street in Chicago. Once they arrived she was dressed in a business attire. She felt like she was going on a wild goose hunt or some treasure hunt until a priest came out.

“Mihaela Ariel Warrier?”

He did not know she was married but he knew her which she and Friedrich looked at each other. 

“You know me? How?”

“You don’t remember me but I do. My mother gave you a lamb in Scotland for saving us from that creature. You remember now?”

She looked at him and remembered a little boy, “How can that be? That was over a hundred years ago.”

❧

“My mother knew what you were because my father was a Lycan. He had left us there because new born vampires were attacking his pack. She was afraid I would reveal our secret. You saved us in more than one way; and because of you I realized not all monsters were evil. Your mother introduced me to Tony. You must be looking for this?”

He held the queen of spades card that belonged to her pack of cards. 

“Your mother told me that one day you would need my help.”

He led them to a room that was secluded and handed her a box.

“My mother thought I would join my father’s pack but I believed God sent you to us.”

“So you became a priest.”

“It is a peaceful life; no war only peace. My father wanted me to join his pack but I could not. Just because I can kill does not mean I should. I have lived here ever sense I left Scotland. You must know about your brother Damien? He stayed here until your mother was able to set things up for him. Here is where he stayed. You must have the key then?”

❧

She showed him the key, “What is this for?”

He smiled and went to the bookcase; sliding the door and they saw a vault, “Come and see.”

Friedrich stayed behind as Ariel looked in; her old weapons and pictures and everything that was in the old cabin.”

“Your mother went to great lengths to remove everything from the cabin. She had came here when you were overseas. When your brother was sixteen he was sent here for schooling. Here are the bonds and gold and everything your mother and you collected. She said you would have a safe house but it won’t be safe forever. She has some books for you to look through. She said you were working on something and here it’s safe. She is right. There are a few rogues outside that are not part of the war. They left their packs because they wanted to be away from war. Some of the nuns here are creatures too. You keep this key; protect it. The entrance here is through here.”

❧

He walked over pushed the on the angel. There is one outside at the fountain. No one knows about this room; it supposedly is a storage room, of sorts.”

“I’m guessing you have symbols somewhere for neutral grounds?”

“Aye that I have. We are Switzerland sort to speak. While you are here; no one dare crosses here. Why the rogues who want peace stay on the grounds.”

He took the gold chain and put the key on the chain. “I’m honored bound to you; you saved my mother, and your mother protected me.”

“My brother, what is he like?”

“You mean is he like you or your mother or like his father, Vlad? He is like his own self. A business driven to make deals. He knows his mother died and that he has only the church here as family. He comes here every six months. His business is here but he lives in Florida. He should be in his office now or you can meet him here?”

“Can you arrange it for him to meet here?”

He smiled, “Yes I can.”

❧

Friedrich went up to the pews and kept his face covered. The nuns looked out as their eyes glowed. He had his ear piece turned on listening in as his wife was down there waiting for Damien. He sensed another vampire; he didn’t turn around as the man walked past him. He headed down the basement and then he turned.

Damien got a phone call at his office from the priest; luckily he was heading to the blood bank his mother founded. He was not too far from the church and walked in. He passed a gentleman but he had to turn; the man was another vampire. They were on neutral grounds so he knew no one here could fight or kill. He kept moving towards the basement; the priest said a package was sent from his mother. He missed, he didn’t know how she died. Her assets were signed to another relative. She had him set for life plus his own funds; so he wondered what this package was when he opened the door. There in front of him was a woman; she looked liked his mother except her eyes.

“Hello brother. It’s good to finally meet you.”

❧

“I do not have a sister. I am an only...”

She held up her rings, “Your rings belonged to my father, Lachlan. You were born in Maine a hundred and fifty-six years ago. Our mother rings I wear; they are one of a kind.”

She grabbed his hands and the rings glowed, “As I said we are siblings.”

“Who is our...”

“Our mother’s father is Vlad Dracul II; her grandfather our great grandfather is Creed. But you are not like me. Let me guess you were never allowed in this room here?”

“Mother said it wasn’t hers to open or mine.”

Ariel opened the door and there were pictures and she handed him a picture of their mother and Ariel as a child.

“Momma wanted you to have somewhat of a normal life. I understand her reasoning; I did not like the lies but I have children of my own. My little girls are like me but my son is like his daddy.”

“The vampire upstairs is your mate; isn’t he?”

“Yes. Here is my card. If after today you want to know more about us; you’ll reach out.”

“You know who my father is, do you not?”

“Yes, I do. As I said when you’re ready to know; I’ll be heading to Florida. If you want to go with me; I’ll meet you in Florida.”

She was closing the door and about the leave when he reached for her hand, “I’ll go. Why are you going to Florida?”

“I got business in Florida. You can come with us or meet me there.”

“Let me make a few phone calls.”

❧

“You don’t understand. The moment you want to come with  me; your life will change. So take a few days brother.”

“Sister after momma died; I thought I was alone. Mom hid away so much from me; I want to know who I am.”

“Let’s go. No phone calls till we are out of here; it’s for my family and my own safety. You can make your phone call once we leave Florida.”

They left Chicago; she removed a few things from the church, but like the priest said she had a new sanctuary. Florida did not take too long as she got the package she requested; she also had two prisoners that would be sent to her uncle Vlad’s castle. She knew her uncle sent spies to check in; luckily she had already had the old cabin cleaned up by an old friend. She knew her uncle had grown suspicious of everyone especially of his wife. Ariel had no intentions of betraying her uncle; she knew she had an interest of building up her uncle’s army. She had two agents to go her brother’s office and guard his home.

“Here brother, my agents are taken care of your affairs and guarding your home. I don’t trust your connections especially your cell phone. This laptop is safe and you can run your business through here; just never betray me, as you can already sense I am not just any vampire. I am taking you to see your father, who is my uncle. We are direct descendants of Vlad II; Vlad III also known as Vlad the Impaler and Vlad Țepeș. History knows Vlad Dracula or Vlad Drăculea. So what you’re about to learn, will be a new chapter in life. So before we leave I’m giving you an opportunity to walk away or stay.”

❧

“No. Mother never gave me an opportunity to know anything; I understand she wanted me to lead a peaceful life; for too long I had so many questions and no answers. Every night since the last five years; I have had dreams of a dragon ring and I’ve seen a warrior. She always came in my dreams fighting monsters. I thought she was coming for me. And it was true she came for me; but not to kill me, but to give me her hand. You are her and now I want to know what was hidden from me.”

She nodded as everyone got into their seats. She contacted Rayburn to let them know she was going back to Transylvania. She would message them when everything was settled. She knew adults needed to discuss what was going on and children needed to be away, a bit longer.

❧

Florin Agoston checked the entire cabin and everything cleared up. His people had lost Ariel and Friedrich so nothing only word was they had left Florida and everything went silent.

“Vlad, Ariel went ghost.”

“Did you find anything out?”

“She has the cabin cleaned; she has her reason. We are finding out where she went but right now she doesn’t want to be found. Personally, I don’t believe it’s against you. Her mother had so many secrets; maybe she wanted to find out the truths before discussing them with anyone. Honestly we all lied to her from the beginning.”

“She has just contacted me seems she has a surprise for me; get here and bring others with you. I don’t want to believe she is plotting against me, either.”

He got a message from Rayburn stating the kids would stay with him because Ariel needed to speak with you about something from the past. She did not go into details because it had no concerns of him. 

Ariel, Friedrich and Damien were escorted into the castle. Vlad dressed in his ancient robes had a few of his warriors behind him. Ariel had dressed in her Order of Dragons armor as she knelt before her uncle; she did this to show her loyalty so that his guard was down.

“Uncle I am not here to dethrone you; I still swear my allegiance to you.”

She stood back up and her eyes glowed white as her uncle eyes’s were glowing green. 

“Why all the secretive actions and going ghost niece.”

“I had to take protective measures before coming back here; is it not my position to protect our family’s security. I think we should speak without many ears.”

Vlad led them to the counsel chamber. Friedrich and the other vampire waited outside along with the other guards.

“Uncle you should’ve told me about you and my mother’s affair.”

“It only happened once; when I thought she wasn’t going to come back I ended up marrying Elizabeth. Yes I still had and have feelings for her; but she never came back.”

“She had another child; while I was fighting in Europe she gave birth to a son. Your son. I didn’t want to say anything because I didn’t want Elizabeth knowing this until you absorbed the news first.”

“This child is my son?”

“Yes, Damien Warrier but she never taught him to fight; he had gone through schooling and learned business.”

“This child is the man outside?”

“Yes. I am sworn to protect him. So if you send him away; I still have to protect him.”

“Bring my son in here, Ariel.”

She opened the door and both Friedrich and Damien came in. 

“You and Friedrich can go.”

“I can’t uncle. There are things to be discussed.”

He glared at her but she stood her grounds. 

“My job that I am sworn to uphold has me staying here to not just protect him but also protect you, as well. He is my brother and there are things I need to know and things I know that you or he doesn’t know. Friedrich stays as well.”

“Are you defying me?”

“Uncle you know my oath.”

Damien looked at them, “I want her to stay. She and I have been lied to since birth. I think it’s only fair she stays, please.”

“Very well, but after this we shall talk alone.”

Ariel looked at her uncle and nodded. She had the journal hidden, so no one else would find out her mother’s secrets. They talked and she listened. She excused herself and left. Friedrich left as well. Ariel left to her room as she changed into different garbs. 

“Darling can you go get our children please.”

“I will what about you my darling?”

“I want to be left alone.”

He left her to get their children when she left to go to the training grounds. She fought with her swords until she took a knee. Her brother’s true identity was now explained. She felt jealous that hers was still unresolved. She felt jealous because her brother had a father and she did not. She took her sword and struck the stone structure in half; everything she was had yet to be revealed. Vlad saw his niece breaking down. He saw the hurt that he knew he was wrong to think she would ever betray him.

“Why is she the way she is?”

“Her legacy is to always kill and defend. Seeing that you do not have her abilities means she has find out more about the past. Your mother kept you two away because she knew that Ariel path was not yours. What could kill us will not kill Ariel.”

“Mom has more secrets doesn’t she?”

“Yes but all of your secrets are revealed; Ariel’s hasn’t even begun. You found your father; and she lost hers before she was born. Don’t pity her or you’ll be the statue.”

“Are you afraid of her?”

“No. She will never betray her bloodline; even though she has been lied to by all of us including her husband. We all have had our share in those lies.”

“Why the dreams of the dragon ring?”

“This is our family’s emblem. You will get one once you have proven you can be trusted.”

“I understand that. What do you need me to do?”

“You took business schooling means you’re good at numbers. We will start you out small and gain your trust. Prove your worth and we will go from there.”

“Fair enough... what do I call you?”

“Vlad for now until I talk to your stepmother. Did you bring anything with you?”

“No. Ariel didn’t trust me to go to my home.”

“That is my niece; we will get you set up.”

“Viktor show Damien where he will stay.”

Vlad watched his son leave the room as Vlad left to go outside. Ariel left the area he needed to make things right with her but he knew she needed to be alone. Her motorcycle was gone and hopefully she wouldn’t be gone too long. Ariel had left to go read more about her father’s family from the package she had picked up. She needed to get to the bottom of things before she went to talk with Rayburn. The hunt for her father’s history was on. The books she needed to find had many secrets much like her mother. She was tired of the lies and secrets. She would hunt down every source till she found the truth, even if she had to chase down ghost.

Chapter 4

Not A Dream

Emily waking up expecting everything to be just a dream; but no, there was Kirk, and she was now on a plane.

“This isn’t a nightmare is it?”

“No. It’s real. Are you hungry?”

“Yes.”

He ordered for her and for himself food. She was still in shock; everything she ever read would say she was nuts. Vampires and werewolves and next they’ll tell her big foot is real too.

Ariel chuckled, “Actually big foot is real, he was the chief of police but was voted in as Mayor. His name is Frank Wheeler; just don’t call him big foot. He prefers the title Sasquatch.”

Emily freaked out because in front of her was a vampire and she hadn’t realized they could read her mind.

Ariel smiled, “yes some of us can read minds; yours is still processing everything. I am Mihaela Ariel Warrier-Krüger, but you may call me Ariel. My husband Friedrich Krüger; and this is my uncle Vlad Drăculea III. We know who you are Emily Buchanan; your mother’s family has history, which is why you’re here. Has anyone in your family ever told you about Oracles?”

“I know in my family we have gifts but most people have some sort of gift.”

Vlad looked at her, “That is true; but for you it’s rare.”

❧

Great they think I’m a witch or something from their old country. They made a mistake because I’m just a poor girl who lived near a country dirt road. Hell, even my boots are only worth $35.

“We know you’re not a witch or a monster.”

She looked at them and saw something in Ariel, “are you pregnant?”

Ariel smiled, “Yes, I’m due any day.”

“Like tomorrow you mean. Again I just have a gift. It’s nothing so special.”

Ariel looked at Kirk, “You said she can draw animals to her, yes?”

“Yes and she can see the dire wolf within me.”

“Look Emily we are not here to hurt you. Help us and I promise you, we will provide you and your family safety. We need you to accept the truth. As hard as this truth is; know that knowing the truth is better than running from it. I did and honestly it did more damage then good.”

“You never said if I can return to my life.”

Ariel smiled but she showed Emily sadness too, “You never had a normal life but now you’re stepping into an opportunity to be useful and like me, finding out who you are... it’s scary but everything works itself out. And yes you’ll see your family but everything you know will be different from this day forth.”

“As long as I can see my family from time to time; I’m okay. I just didn’t think a small gift like this is needed.”

Ariel day down in front of her, “Your gift isn’t small. I’m over three hundred years old; I never used my gift to it’s full potential because I was afraid of it. When it came time to surrender to my gift; and then, it saved my life. It’s natural to be afraid but never let fear control you; before the end of this journey, you’ll understand what I’m getting at.”

“The counsel is meeting us Ariel. Apparently we have unfinished business. They want to know what happened last year.”

❧

She nodded, “It was only a matter of time before they would want to know.”

Emily looked at Ariel, “is it about the gargoyle in you because it’s dormant now.”

They looked at her with surprise looked; yes Emily could see the souls of people but monsters didn’t really have souls. She saw each of them; saw their history, like veil had been lifted. 

“There was a veil in that town wasn’t there? Why I didn’t know the truth. The lottery, my want to move to Maine and etc. It was all a set up wasn’t it except meeting Kirk.”

Vlad handed her a picture, “That’s one piece already found; we need the others.”

Emily looking at the picture and letting the images come to life, “The Wolf Bane is with Igor. The others are scattered; a couple of them are in Chicago, someone calls them the mafia. They had someone to steal it from the museum. Looks like others want to take your place Vlad. With all these pieces they can kill the elders with them. Even the children of Ariel must die.”

He had gotten his confirmation that his agents had found out. Even Igor and Alexander were in trouble because they too are ancient monsters. The younger generation want to take over; which would be detrimental. 

❧

Finally reaching their destination and driving through the old country; Emily was getting annoyed. She wasn’t mad or upset but something was bugging her and she kept her mouth shut and blocked her mind from being read. When they arrived at the castle she was getting sick; she started throwing up. So much pain and suffering and death. She saw so much that Kirk grabbed a blanket and covered her; shielding her.

“I got her; it’s okay.” Kirk carrying her while going up the steps to go inside. Servants greeting them in and going back to work when three children came downstairs. Valentina ran to her mother and then to her dad; Freddy grabbed his mother’s legs and looked at Kirk. Odette looking at woman in the blanket. The little girl raised her hand up to calm the lady down, “It’s okay Ms. Emily, you’re seeing things that had to happen and things that have happened. Our uncle and our parents keep us safe. It will be okay.” The little girl telepathically told the lady the simplicity of the energy she felt.

❧

Emily calming down a lot was able to step down on the floor. Odette hugged her parents and three kids hugged their great uncle. Two kids ran off playing but Odette reached for Emily’s hand. They connected which helped Emily stay calm. 

Vlad talking to the servants for the counsel members would be here soon enough; one of the servants guided Kirk and Emily to their room. One room had two beds and it’s own bathroom. She needed a shower and she heard the servant saying dinner would be ready in an hour. She took a quick shower and came in the room in a towel. Kirk looked at her but quickly went into the bathroom. She got out red slacks and matching sweater. She slipped into her white boots and was ready when Kirk came out. He had a towel wrapped around his waist and she saw his chest and abs. He had a few scars but he reminded her of Vikings with his long wet hair and yeah she had to look away. Even though she spent a few days with him; she had learned so much that confusion was still wrapped around her mind. She was upset because everything was a lie. Was Kirk lying too; in her mind images were racing with conversations going a mile a minute. Being here in this castle she got so many pictures and so much emotions. She held her head. He handed her a Tylenol and water. He wasn’t wearing a towel but his chest was still bare. 

“Emily, are you okay?”

“Just a pounding headache and apparently a tool for a crypto war; and then there is us. How do I know we are legit and not a facade?”

“I meant everything I said; I’ll spend the rest of my life to prove how I feel about you.”

He kissed her and held her till she let go. She felt warmth on her chest and pulling the crystal to see that it was glowing.

“That’s unusual; but everything right now shouldn’t surprise me, either.”

“I’m sure there will be more for the both of us.”

❧

“You said you would talk more with me; I’m assuming after we eat and are alone.”

“I was approached by a higher  rank about you; I was sworn to keep the mission a secret. There are rumors of rebels trying to kill off ancient crypto; to change the set up and old ways. Example werewolves and vampires are never to mate; to mix the bloodlines. But it’s about power nothing honorable. I am a pure blood; like here in this castle are ancient creatures, pure bloods. Except Vlad’s wife; she was changed. You as an Oracle will be a great use to help us find out what the rebels are doing and where they are getting assistance. The armor they are looking for has it’s own power source. Whoever wears it controls the werewolves’ alliance; which means our king would be killed by all the packs. It had belonged to Igor’s family but a member of his pack betrayed him. The pieces were scattered and it broke treaties. My pack and a few others still remain loyal to Igor; however many went their separate ways. That’s why rogues are coming out of the woodwork. If the wrong person gets the armor; the rogues won’t be hunted down. This war needs to be stopped; because laws and structures that were set, have kept us alive for so long.”

“Can crypto’s marry humans?”

“Some can; however few require their mates to be changed. Not so much for as a necessity, but if offsprings are involved; then the childbirth could kill the human. Plus human life expectancy is limited; once we find our mates, we tend to change them. But there has to be consent. No one can be changed against their will; another reason to stop those rebels. In the past humans were changed and things were chaotic. Rebels are trying to change humans without fully changing them. They are building an army that was believed to have stopped but wasn’t.”

“That’s a lot to swallow all at once.”

“Indeed; let’s go before they send a search party.”

She lightened up as she took his arm and walked with him downstairs. The room was huge and extravagant. She saw the long table with high chairs and a fire place in the room; it was magnificent. Ariel sat next to her daughters; at the end of the table, was her husband next to his son. Vlad at the other end next to his wife. She locked eyes with Emily and Emily shudder. She blocked the images as Kirk pulled her chair back and he took a seat next to her. 

“Are you better, my dear?”

She blushed, “I’m sorry about that; I got caught off guard with all the emotions all at once.”

❧

Wine was poured for everyone except the children. They had grape juice with blood mixed in. 

Vlad’s wife looked at her husband with jealousy but smiled at Emily. 

“Where are you from, Ms. Emily.”

“I’m from Tennessee. I’m an army brat.”

“Your accent isn’t entirely from the south is it?”

“Um no, my mother is from Costa Rica and my father is from the States.”

She looked down thinking of her family and hoping they are faring well. Her nephew was due soon and she hoped to be there for his birth. Everyone was talking in an unknown language for a moment or two; which gave her a reprieve from all the stares. Emily looking up saw a woman walk behind Ariel; she looked at everyone to see if they saw her and no one paid attention. The woman went walking starring at her and signal her to follow. 

“Excuse me for a moment.”

She followed the woman to a picture; she was very beautiful. Her eyes and getting lost into a memory. She heard metal moving when an armor set came alive and she barely ducked when the spear struck the wall. She came back into the hall running as the armor followed her. Kirk tackled the armor when black smoke came out following Emily. Emily didn’t know where she was going but followed her senses; up ahead was a chapel and dove inside the room. She grabbed the cross and repeated the Latin she was taught. The black mist left her. She just fell to her knees and just started praying and crying. 

❧

She realized no one could protect her from these phantom spirits, that were after her. 

“Just leave me alone, please.”

Kirk crept towards her slowly, “I’m not leaving you here alone.”

Odette left everyone and went to her mother’s room and ran back to Emily.

“Here, it’s my mommy’s she bought this because I told her I wanted it. It’s a silver cross; I didn’t know why till now. Here, please take it.”

Emily trying to calm down took the silver necklace. The cross was pure silver. 

“Thank you....”

“I found this book in my uncle’s library. He is a collector of sorts. I think this book will give you some insights.”

Her smile was warm for a young vampire. The little girl whispered, “My mommy was attacked by a wolf spirit the night my siblings and I were born. I still see it sometimes too.”

“I’ve seen a lot of things too growing up. Somethings that I wished I never seen.”

“Lets go back because your food is getting very cold.” The little girl reached for Emily’s hand and was close to her. Once everything settled back down; Odette ran back into the kitchen, and grabbed some salt. She made a ring on the floor around Emily.

“Mommy can we take Emily shopping tomorrow?”

“Yes darling.”

The little girl moved her plate and goblet to be next to Emily. 

Vlad smiling at his niece, “Darlin explain the salt.”

“Uncle Vlad, it suppose to keep bad spirits away. Iron does the same thing and silver. Mommy’s demon wolf is here; it’s why he is attacking Emily. The crystal Emily is wearing also needs to be explained to her; it holds it’s own power.”

Chapter 5

Demon Wolf

Everyone looked at Odette, especially her mother.

“Darling, mommy killed that spirit.”

“No mommy, you broke the bond not the spirit. It’s looking for a new host. Because Emily is a pure soul plus her gifts; that makes her even more a target.”

Friedrich looking at his wife then Vlad, “We need to get proof; I believe my daughter but the counsel will want proof.”

Kirk just looked silently at the little girl; who was now eating her meal. He looked at Emily and wondered what kind of mother she would be. Then his thoughts went back to fighting ghosts; he had fought many things in the last fifty years but never a phantom. Once Emily was done she got her plate and goblet together but a servant came to collect everyone’s dishes. She blushed forgetting where she was and stayed seated. Everyone went into the parlor room waiting for the counsel to come. Ariel went upstairs with her babies as a nanny for the children followed. Emily sat near the fire place her hand in front of the flames. The flames danced before her as she motioned her hand to make a fire globe.

She hadn’t done that since childhood but tonight she needed something to keep her mind at peace. “Is there anything you can’t do?”

“I can’t fly.” She laughed at Kirk. 

Vlad watching the fire being made into a globe, “A small gift you say.”

“I can do a few things but to me it’s a curse and not a gift.”

His hands turned to flames and he shot a fireball at her; Emily held up her hands and spread the flames and shot it into the fire place. Everyone jumped back as flames danced around Emily. She had went into a trance. The flames around her did not burn her or anything else. In flames exposed a bird that many would call a phoenix. The power within lifted her up until it faded away.

❧

Ariel coming down the stairs to join everyone; she noticed everything was silent. She grabbed her dagger only to see Emily wrapped in flames. She too witnessed the phoenix and saw the flaming bird fading away. Her body crashed onto the floor. Everyone trying to grasp what they just witnessed and Kirk touched Emily skin, “She is ice cold.”

They took her to the infirmary and Kirk watched over her. He didn’t sleep, just stayed with her.

Vlad paced upstairs trying to figure out what he just witnessed with his eyes.

“What the hell was that?”

“I don’t know but this isn’t just a simple Oracle either. She took your flames and from her a phoenix emerges.”

“So maybe she takes the power of elements and uses them. This is more than what I thought. I just know that she isn’t telling us everything or she doesn’t even know herself.”

“You think she doesn’t really know herself; sounds familiar my niece.”

She looked at her uncle with a grin, “There was a time I was afraid of what was inside; when we fear it keeps us from accepting ourselves.”

“I agree; but you my dear; still don’t accept yourself fully either.”

“It’s true. I am at war with myself; I don’t know my limits....”

“These vampire gifts; everyone of us has some sort of gift, if we deny our abilities we become weak and then we become victims. We are at war Ariel; one day you’re going have to let go of that fear.”

“It’s one thing to create fire and blow things up uncle; it’s another when you morph into a creature where you attack everything and it takes your children to calm you down. I could’ve killed my children but....”. She took a long sigh and looked at her; she herself trying to understand it all. 

“My dear, just tell me.”

“Uncle I believe Odette and Emily are a major piece to this puzzle.”

“The counsel will want to know more; right now we don’t have a clue.”

❧

Ariel went to the boxing ring and was punching and trying to forget the beast she had inside her. Friedrich found her and decided to spar with her, “Just remember go easy on me my love.”

“Once you step in this ring; I can’t promise you anything.”

She and her husband spar; she was grateful he knew when she needed to vent he was there. He would always be there to be a rock when she felt herself sinking.

“Ariel your uncle thinks you cage your beast; I think he is right.”

He blocked her punch and he punched back getting her in a lock. She went limp and got out of the lock and crescent kicked him pushing him back. They went into a yin yang stance and this time he moved quickly as she tried to block. She fell to the floor and got back up as her inner beast growled. She stopped and wanted to run but Friedrich held her down, “Stop running my love. You need to stop preventing yourself from learning who you are; I love you but stop running.”

“I’m afraid I’m going to hurt those I love.”

“Then learn to tame the beast within you.”

He pulled her into the chamber, “Ariel let your beast out. Stop fighting yourself and face your fear.”

“No. Let me out Friedrich.”

“No.”

Ariel pacing back and forth and getting angry. She remembered the day she found out her mother was murdered; when she was nearly killed, everything that changed her.

Igor came out because Friedrich had called him.

“She is resisting her inner beast.”

He nodded, “Ariel you got to talk to her; focus your energy because if you don’t focus on yours how can you help Emily or one day, Odette.”

❧

Ariel thinking of her children and stopping herself from pacing. She focused on her thoughts and summoning her beast.

“Hello Ariel. I was wondering when we would talk.”

“I don’t want to hurt my loved ones.”

“Then we need to compromise then. How about allowing me out once and in while and learn that there is a balance.”

“How about that night; I almost hurt my loved ones.”

“Because I was awaken that night. The more you talk to me the more I learn boundaries.”

“I’m gonna let you out; but my family you will protect.”

She felt the change as her wings spread out her hands became claws her body changed into what resembled a gargoyle. 

Friedrich, Igor and Vlad watched her in her beastly form.

Igor clapped as he too transformed into a Lycan. 

“Let her out.”

Her beast came out and took the ceiling; roaring at them.

Friedrich looked at her and her eyes went from black to green; she was letting him know she was there. 

Vlad impressed, “Igor my friend, take my niece out for a stroll on the property.”

Igor opened the window and signal to Ariel to fly. Both took off she flew onto the ground on all fours she ran; she felt like a tank. In her vampire form she was swift but as a gargoyle she wasn’t as fast.

❧

“It’s not about speed always; it’s using our strength to push through. Yes we are strong in flight but it’s like a sprint move.”

Ariel finally accepted who she was and yet there was something more that she herself couldn’t put her finger on. 

Igor waited for Ariel to come down and letting her gain her composure, “Once you shift back; us Lycans are nude. I don’t know how it is with your beast. You can call on your beast strength without shifting. But now you know her and she knows you.”

“Why are you helping me or my family?”

“Lycans and werewolves are having a power struggle not to mention the rogues; I need your help one day to get my people under control. There is a girl that is like you in our race. She doesn’t know it but she is a key for me to regain my full power. Like Vlad has you; I need her to know she is my weapon but my balance.”

“Is she your mate?”

“No. My mother had three pups. I am the eldest, the king after my father was killed. My sister she lives in Spain; her children have sworn to uphold the old ways. My youngest brother he is in Alaska; after his wife died, he allowed his new Luna to take over. His daughter has a unique gift that only five before has ever possessed. She is a Primordial Lycan. My father was one; myself and then Sergio; we are Primordial. My brother and sister are not. No other of the children are except my niece.”

❧

“Whose the fifth?”

“That’s the one we think is behind the rogues uprising. First thing first cleaning up the mess with the black mist mess; and then help me and my people.”

“Igor you have my allegiance; just call on me and mine.”

“Let’s head back before your husband worries.”

Ariel going back into her chamber as she shifted back. Her clothes tattered but at least she wasn’t naked. Friedrich held her as the shift had taken it’s toll on her. He lifted her up and taking her to their room. He had given her packets of blood to get strength back up; he kissed her, “I am sorry I put you in the spot my love. I see you sad at times and I know you think of that night. Our kids knew what they doing; Odette was stubborn like you to get to you.”

“You never told me how you all found me.”

“Odette kept calling you and she was persistent. It was like you two linked and she said she felt her momma. She kept saying mommy over and over. We followed her directions. I didn’t know our children had hidden themselves. Freddy is able to cloak himself and everything he touches. Valentina hasn’t learned her gift yet.”

“I guess we did create an army.”

“Our baby that’s inside of you, a little boy. What shall we call him?”

“Lachlan for my dad.”

“Get some rest...”

She felt a pain, “I think Lachlan is making his appearance.”

❧

Ariel tired from giving birth to her son would stop by to see Emily; once she rested. Friedrich at first felt guilty thinking he caused his wife to go into labor. But Ariel gave him his son in his arms; she smiled at him, “He was meant to be born at this time.”

She finally went to sleep as their children got to meet their baby brother.

Once Ariel rested she finally went to where Kirk was to check in on Emily. Who was still out. She looked at Kirk, “you know they want to have her change to be a vampire; you understand why, right?”

“Yes but that would keep her and I apart.”

“Her powers are too great for her and if she doesn’t turn then her powers could kill her.... I know you two are in love. You two do have an ally with me; let me work some deals out.”

She gave Kirk a break so he could go eat and soon Emily was waking up. Ariel talked with compassion to Emily about the significance of her abilities.

“My little Odette never talks to anyone; she has told me that she prefers to read. I use to read her a story about mages. They were used in wars to bend the wills of the enemies. The wizard in King Arthur, Merlin I think is the wizard’s name. Magic back in the day was practiced by only a few who that had the ability. Vampires have some abilities some stronger then others. My uncle here has many enemies and as you guess we are in a war. Younger generation vampires and other creatures are trying to destroy the old ways. Yes we call you an Oracle but you’re more important then just that. 

“You want me as a battle mage?”

“It’s not just us but our courts are no longer just vampires anymore; werewolves that were once our enemies are now our allies. You have heard of Van Helsing before, yes?”

❧

She nodded, “yes the man who hunts down monsters.”

Friedrich grinned, “He was a story but in real life the real man was a preacher. His son was cursed and he went after my wife; to breed a new species. We destroyed most of the drug dealers but not all of them. New monsters are trying to take over our ranks.”

“Like the young man I saw in my home; he had killed his family then hung himself.”

“Why we had most of the humans to move out of the town. We believe the mafia vampires have sold us out.”

“That’s why you’re looking for the 9 pieces. To put fear back into your enemies as Vlad the Impaler had done centuries ago.”

She looked at Vlad, “I did a report on you back when I was in middle school... I was then labeled a freak. My report was on cryptozoology.”

He gave her a harsh look but Ariel and Friedrich chuckled trying not to burst into laughter.

“Sorry no disrespect.”

He still glared at her but Kirk had to look away.

“I did read about another female vampire she might be worth searching for if she is alive. I think her name was Countess Elizabeth Bathory; she was known for torturing and murdering 650 peasant girls at her Transylvanian castle.”

Vlad smiled, “Csetje Castle, it has since been burned down long ago. She would be 124 years younger than I. Ariel I think you should start looking into this... our young friend here has brought something up. We shall visit that castle tomorrow. Maybe find a new piece of the puzzle.”

❧

“I’m on it. Come Ariel; I believe you can assist me as well. Kirk was about to get up but Vlad held up his hand.

“We need to talk.”

Kirk didn’t like that tone but he knew Vlad well enough that he also respected the man.

“Do not get too attached to her. I know your thoughts and you must know we plan on turning her.”

“Why?”

“To save her life; May I remind you that there is one code we all live by still; no blending of the breeds.”

“So I am supposed to guard her till you change her and then off I go...”

“No. Igor will meet you tonight after everything is done; Igor will have you join his ranks.”

Kirk didn’t like this after he got her scent and marked his territory. He had fallen in love. He got up and went outside to get some fresh air. 

❧

“You like Kirk don’t you?”

“I do; at first I thought he was after me because of money and then I learned he didn’t want money. In a short amount of time; I do feel something for him. I never dated before but it seems like I’ve known him before...”

They looked through books and searching for some insights but while she was looking she thought about Kirk. She did feel something for him and she could see growing old, only she would be the one growing old.

Ariel smiled, “You don’t have to grow old if you wanted him to be yours. He is ready to Mark you if you wanted him or you could be a vampire; but vampires aren’t supposed to mate with werewolves.”

“But because the two have made a pact wouldn’t that law be tossed out?”

“I don’t get into politics; I am weapon, a soldier. If I ever got into politics, it would be because I had no choice. Just be clear, love isn’t just a feeling but a choice. Whatever you choose make sure you’re willing to die for it.”

After a few hours of researching they found somethings to go by and to look into. The counsel was here and Ariel cringed. Ever since that night they had been asking her to join but her uncle and her husband knew her stance.

Kirk met Igor briefly before joining the counsel. Kirk was ordered to stand by as he watched Emily. She looked at him with longing eyes then she headed to bed. He was asked to join the counsel and gave a witness account of what he had seen. Then he stood by waiting for the meeting to be over. Igor smiled as he saw the young alpha. 

“Come and walk me to my limo.”

“Yes Sir.”

“Vlad says you want to join my ranks; I’ve read your request; so once you pass your trials, I don’t see a problem. Alphas are hard to come by.”

“It would be an honor.”

Igor looked at Kirk and then seeing Emily and knowing the laws between werewolves and vampires; even would be vampires. Igor can remember a time he had loved a vampire; because they met on the sly, eventually a vampire who was jealous had reported her. He lost his love, his Tatiana. He wanted to marry her but before she was able to run away; she had been drained as the sun rose she was turned to ashes. His dreams of love died along with her. Yes, he finally did marry but only because his kingdom needed a queen.

Kirk looking at Igor, “I’ve marked Emily; but not officially. I love her.”

Igor stopped and motion for him to follow, “Vlad and the counsel has agreed for her to be a vampire. No werewolf can harness her power. If you two mate it would be a war. I cannot allow a war to happen over love. If you love her then let it go; or you will fight alone. Ariel is a weapon; I’ve seen her fight. You cannot win.”

“What if she chooses me?”

“Pray she doesn’t.”

“She has already... Ariel already said we have an ally in her. I rather die then give up Emily.”

“If you can find a way to avoid war to be with Emily; you’ll have mine and others of our kind support. But if you don’t; you’re on your own, and will be considered a rogue.”

❧

Kirk went into the room and was annoyed and tired. He went to his bed but felt eyes on him. Emily was awake and looking at him, “Can you sleep with me, please.”

Every part of him wanted to say no and put distance between them; but her eyes looked into his soul. He walked over and sat down beside her, “They want you to be turned; I...”

She put her finger on his mouth, “Just stay with me.”

He laid down as she curled up against him. He held her through the night and while she slept her hand found his hair. He moved her hand close to his face. He noted how soft she felt against him; her scent was even stronger. She opened her eyes and looked into his eyes. She had found her love. He kissed her forgetting the warning as she responded to his kiss. His hands rubbed her body and found her breast. 

“I can’t. I promised myself to wait till marriage.”

He kissed her neck, “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be... I know all about the plan of turning me. I have much to think about.”

“I understand.”

“I know you started to mark me and I understand you can’t finished it unless I give you permission.”

“That is true.”

“You figure out how we can be together and I’ll let you mark me.”

“We will find a way. And when you’re ready to be marked; I’ll do it.”

❧

The next day, Ariel and Emily went to the store. They bought everything needed to ward off spirits and phantoms. Ariel took Emily to the old store she had bought a while back. 

“We are safe here. Now talk. You want to be changed but I know you’re in love with Kirk. Is this real or do you have second thoughts?”

“No. I told him last night if he can find a way for me to be changed but still be with him; I would let him mark me.”

“I have a bargaining chip. If at any point during this you get second thoughts or see where you two will not last; you need to tell me now.”

“You said love was a choice not a feeling; that if I choose to accept Kirk I would be willing to die for my decision. Me being turned is me dying to help save a world; in my world Kirk is a part of it.”

“You do understand why you must be turned, right?”

“An awakening of my blood; to be more affective with my gift. Being human I’m limited on the control.”

“Friedrich is talking with Kirk; if Kirk proves to my husband that he wants you for real; that he is willing to die for you.... we have a plan. Know this though, you will swear on your life and in the next, that you will serve us in our fight. Do you swear it?”

“Yes, I swear.”

“Yes you will be able to see your family; including your nephew being born. Remember this Romania is forever your home. And by the way, I had my baby last night. A little boy named is...”

“Lachlan Oleg Krüger. Named after your father.”

“Yes. Now let’s do some digging; tonight you’ll be changed.”

Emily doing her best to focus but still she wondered why Ariel would put herself on the line for complete strangers.

Ariel smiled, “you ever heard of Rachel Beckett?”

“Yes the statue of the lady from town.”

“She was my mother. She is Vlad III half sister. She and my father Lachlan were to marry others; instead they fell in love. My husband’s sister Irina. She was betrothed you my father. Because he married my mother she went after my mother; who was pregnant with me. My father was killed and before Friedrich and I were married my mother was murdered. Love I thought was a petty thing; I myself ran away from it for so long. Friedrich saw me at first when I was five. He was always around and never close enough. He didn’t think he could love because I was wondering soul. After I lost my mother, I left him and left everything. He and I had marked each other we were a mated pair. When I left I was even more lost. He found me and brought me back to life. Love killed my parents but love had set them free. Love is a binding promise that death cannot destroy; you and Kirk found each other, it’s worth fighting for. This whole war going on; if love wasn’t worth something, then what is the worth of fighting this war? Everyone in this fight has someone they are fighting for; these rebels want to destroy when we have the opportunity to rebuild. So remember love always finds a way to right the wrong in this world.”

Chapter 6

Next Phase

Elizabeth pacing back and forth away from the tower; away from everyone. Soon her secret would be out. How was she to know that he, Helwing’s son was going to do what he did. The deal was that he would scare off Ariel not try to make babies with her. If Vlad ever found out no telling what he would do. He had loved her and she betrayed him; only because she was afraid he would get hurt. The ghost summoning didn’t work or the black dogs. 

Valentina and Freddy was nearby as they listened in on their aunt’s thoughts. She looked at her brother and they climbed down the wall back down to the gardens. 

“What do we do?”

“Not here brother. Let’s go.”

They shape-shifted into wolf cubs and ran inside. Their uncle was teaching Odette to play chess. She looked at her siblings and they yelped at her. Their uncle smiled as they were learning their powers.

“Why the rush my darlings.”

They yelped and touched them to change them back. 

“Speak.”

Their uncle was many hundred years old and to them he was handsome. They loved their uncle very much and couldn’t hurt him. 

“Uncle we... we don’t want to hurt anyone....”

He listened to their thoughts and heard what was going on with Elizabeth. 

“Repeat nothing to anybody. I will take care of this. Go watch over your new brother, Lachlan. Odette, no cheating my dear.”

Odette looked at her uncle, “check mate.”

He looked at her move and grinned, “Reset the pieces; telling your mother you cheated.”

She grinned, “uncle I won fair and square; but yeah I’ll reset the pieces.”

She watched him leave and then glared at her siblings, “Idiots!”

“What?”

“We need to find momma because...”

“Find momma for what?”

Ariel and Emily came back from their research, “Well?”

She saw their thoughts and groaned. 

“Go check on your little brother. Freddy get these books and show Emily my study. Mommy has to take care of something.”

❧

He couldn’t believe his bride would do such a thing. He must find out from her the truth. In his chamber he found Elizabeth; she was crying, “I can’t keep this secret anymore. I betrayed you especially Ariel. And I am pregnant; with your child. If I wasn’t pregnant I would’ve drank all of this silver. But I am a coward.”

Elizabeth in tears as she threw the goblet of silver against the wall. He stood there as his eyes glowed green as she stood before him.

“What did you do?”

“I didn’t know Georg Andreas Helwing’s offspring was gunning for Ariel. The guy appeared to be a normal everyday human. When you all were in Africa; we always talked about flowers and then one day I wasn’t myself. I found out later he was drugging my tea; and I had divulged information. I didn’t know he was cursed or could change into the black mist.”

“You mean the attack on Ariel ‘s pregnancy was planned out?”

“Yes but that was not my doing. None of it was; I was drugged. I did not know his dad had taught him to be a botanist.”

Ariel absorbing everything and now knowing what really happened; she believed Elizabeth meant no harm, she was just a pawn.

“Uncle, don’t be too harsh on her; I too kept her secret. She is your wife and I know you love her. I have a request and I want to be heard.”

Ariel looking at her beloved uncle and a wife who she didn’t want to see burned alive.

“What is your bargain?”

“Uncle I have served you and I never asked for something as great as I am doing today. You know Emily has sworn her life to serve us; and she is given up her life to help our cause. She loves Kirk and Kirk loves her. The law be broken tonight; that they are allowed to marry. You’ll have an army of werewolves who will sign a new treaty. There will be a new fear in all the hearts; your allies will be greater than ever. A weapon that absorb your enemies powers; a battle mage who is an Oracle; and an Elder who stands by you. Just break the law tonight so that Kirk and Emily can be together. I’ll even step into my place as counsel. No strings attached and Elizabeth won’t be held accountable. The greatest army ever created under your thumb; if your enemies feared you now, think how much more they’ll fear you after tonight.”

 Vlad looked at his niece, “My dear, you have impressed me greatly. Elizabeth because of your treachery, you will spend a lifetime making this right. I will accept your request dear niece. Now leave me with my wife.”

❧

He watched Ariel and made sure no one could hear him speak to his wife. He looked at her; for he would always love her. He had lost trust in her and once it’s lost it was hard to regain. Could he have a place for her in his hold; sadness crept in his heart but steel shrouded his love for her, concealing it from her now.

“My darling Elizabeth, I do love you but I cannot trust you. You put me in a sordid place. My enemies I would impale but I cannot you. After our child is born you will leave here; and never return.”

“Please...”

He held up his hand. He walked away from her. 

Elizabeth broke down in tears for this was far worse then death. She knew  she had to win back his favor; prove she just made a mistake but how?

That night he slept alone; he had her things moved to another room; away from him.

Odette knew her uncle still loved Elizabeth. She remembered her uncle loved chess; they played everyday. Like her uncle she needed to help Elizabeth to find her way back. She ran to her aunt and knelt by her, “Aunt Lizzie, I want to help you win back Vlad’s dark heart.”

“It’s no good... I betrayed him.”

“Aunt Lizzie, look.”

She held up a book and watched her aunt cry. 

“Do not tell anyone that I have gone. I’ll be back before my child is born.”

She would wait till everyone was at the counsel meeting; and then she would leave.

❧

At the counsel meeting both the Elder vampires were there and Ancient werewolves attended. Everyone dressed in their best as Emily stood before them. Vlad stood up and nodded at Friedrich, “I am demanding the law of a werewolf and vampire marriage that is forbidden be broken.”

Ian and the other six vampires elders raised up and made an uproar; Ariel stepped forth. 

“Uncle I will accept my place on counsel; who dares to challenge me?”

The six that stood up were silenced. The werewolves smiled, “We accept your proposition.” Friedrich looking at his wife, “I accept... your place as counsel.” 

The others sat back down. 

“I stand by my uncle’s decision on the marriage of vampires and werewolves; we fight together and bled together.”

Igor and Alexander along with two other werewolf alphas agreed. Kirk stepped forth by Emily, Friedrich cut his wrist and pour his blood into the goblet. Ian and the other Elder vampires followed suit. Vlad was the last to fill the cup.

Emily took the goblet and drank the blood. She became faint and fell to her knees.

“What’s happening to her?”

Kirk ran to her side.

“She is dying. Bite her now if you tend to make her your bride.” Ariel told him in a compassionate tone.

He shifted and looking once more at them; especially at Ariel. He bit her as she took her last breath as a human.

“Take her to the chambers; she will wake up with a hunger she cannot control. There she must stay for three days. Or else she will go feral.”

❧

Ariel looking at her watch knowing she had a meeting with Madame Kezia.

“I request a break for a couple of hours. I got more information to collect that is needed for the counsel. They agreed to give Ariel a few hours before recalling the task at hand. She checked on her children and told them to play and practice. She got on her motorcycle and headed to the old house; Madame Kezia agreed to meet her there. She had many questions to ask especially about the phoenix and what does an Oracle have that power. The only one who could sort this whole thing was the Gypsy Queen; there was way too many secrets and she knew these secrets were coming to the surface. The old woman knew more then what she led on. She saw the woman’s hood covering her face. She wondered why she kept her face covered. The older woman waited to be inside as she pulled back her hood. She was blind but her white eyes could look in the depths that others couldn’t even scratch.

“You are right I do know more; but right now there are other pressing matters. You want to know the meaning behind the phoenix. Emily is just another Oracle. She is of my people. Many believe we are Egyptians but that is not entirely true. Some of the oldest ones are from India. Our people separated and some headed to Egypt and when the first of our kind was given the power of the phoenix it wasn’t everyone of us; just one every thousand year or so we thought. The phoenix was worshipped but is not immortal. The phoenix is so strong that the person who possesses the gift doesn’t live long after the first bird emerges. Which is why she had to be turned. Her powers are not ready to be used just yet. I will come to her when it’s time. Right now she needs to learn her Oracle powers first. Once she learns the one the other will emerge. Like you when the moment you are fully awaken you have learned the one side and now when the other part comes you will know what to do. Your inner battle will stop because now you are surrendering yourself to who you really are.... also Valentina will learn soon enough; she has your strength. Don’t worry she only has the gargoyle and nothing else.”

❧

Valentina jealous of her siblings learning their gifts but she had yet to learn. She was annoyed that she had yet to learn and she looked at the punching bag and started clobbering the bag. She hit it so hard the bag went flying.

“You got your mother’s strength.”

She wasn’t aware of her eyes glowing purple. Her father holding her, “Ssshhh my little girl. Calm down.”

“Am I gonna change into a beast too?”

“I don’t know but I know you’re going to need to control your temper.”

“I just got so mad that my siblings are finding out who they are and I just lost it.”

“I know darling; I remember when I was young, I got so mad that I lost control.”

He showed her powers from his hand. 

“Now that you know you have strength; now you learn to use it but control it.”

He taught her how to fight and she got to spend time with her daddy. 

“Daddy why does momma tend go off on her own; you both still love each other, I know you both do.”

He sat down with her, “Mommy doesn’t leave to hurt any of us. She has a hard job that requires her to work and plus her place as the Dragon order keeps her accountable not just here but with the vampire’s army.”

“Why aren’t you...”

“Fate has a plan for us all. I am a knight but now as an Elder I have to pick and choose the battles I fight both on and off the field. Your mother doesn’t have a choice. When you’re older and you stand with your mother, you’ll see why she does what she does. Your momma and I are forever; one day you’ll find a mate. The bond is strong that nothing breaks it not even death.”

One of the agents signal him for the counsel has convened again. 

❧

“Are there any updates on the new monsters!”, Alexander asked.

“We have been investigating older sites, that are now remnants of the past.  We need to find out who made the drug and who else was behind the drugs. We suspect the mafia vampires killed their leader and took over operations. That being said we will begin work on finding the lost pieces of armor.”

Ian looked at Ariel, “What does one have to do with other?”

Friedrich looking at his father, “If the enemies find the armor they could use it against us. It’s pure silver. The only one who could possibly survive the assault would be Ariel; anyone of us could be killed if in the wrong hands. We know for a fact the mafia had two pieces that we can confirm.”

More politics went on and on as Ariel wanted to beat her head on the table; but true to her word, her uncle had the counsel and military force that restored him to his fullest. They went over military funds and crimes that was now up to Ariel to balance. She wasn’t hanging up her armor but now she was what she hated, a pencil pusher. 

❧

Three days had passed going on five nights, Kirk had stayed at her side. Between the blood they gave to help quench her thirst to raw meat for them both to feast on. By the sixth day she craved more than just blood as she watched Kirk sleep. Her eyes glowed light yellow as she crept up on him. She kissed him and bit his lower lip softly with her fangs. Her kiss had waken his animal urges inside as he pulled her onto him. He felt her hands on his skin and soon it was her nails. But he caught her hands before they went further, “We, I cannot let you go against your wishes that I promised to wait for our wedding night.”

“You haven’t proposed to me?”

“Let’s get cleaned up; we smell of blood and rotten meat.”

Emily and Kirk heading back up when he spotted an indoor pool. He smiled and transformed into his wolf. She turned to see him dive into the water. Her vampire strength and speed caught up and dove in. Now that she was a vampiress she didn’t have to come up for air. They embraced once she surfaced; for now she saw the real him. The wolf he was but she wasn’t afraid of his strength for they were in love. He held her close though he missed her heart beat but her eyes were so much more intent. She no longer needed to be a virgin for now her blood was tainted. He loved her that he would wait even though he wanted to take her as his as her wet shirt revealed her breast. He wanted to make love in the water but instead he held her until he was back in human form. He grabbed a towel wrapped it around himself; he handed her a towel to wrap around herself. Going back to their room, to change into decent clothing.

❧

“Welcome back Ms. Emily and her werewolf Kirk.”

Friedrich smiled as he went over some reports.

“Your highness, wondering what is our next move. Ariel coming down with her children as she saw Emily and Kirk.

“Alpha Kirk, Your king, Igor is waiting for you in the meeting room. Emily accompany me for we got much to discuss about that crystal of yours.”

Kirk gave Emily a quick kiss and headed to meet with Igor. Igor dressed in armor and with him were six others.

“I asked you if you’re wanting to join my ranks; is this still true?”

“Yes... I still do but now what of my bride to be with Emily?”

“She stays here; for now. We found another piece of the armor. We leave tonight for it; his highness Friedrich and a few others are joining us. It’s a quick operation; your test to join our ranks.”

“I’ll suit up.”

“Hold on, you’ll need this.”

Kirk looked at the armor that had once been his father’s suit of arms. Solid black with his family’s crest. Tonight they left with speed. They were going into Russia. Emily could hear Kirk saying he would be back. Ariel gripped Emily’s shoulder, “they won’t be gone too long. Come we have other pieces to find.”

“How many are left to be found?”

“We have two, Igor has one that he is bringing; tonight they are retrieving one more. The mafia vamps have two; we need to find the last three.”

“You need to find two; there is one locally.”

“What piece is here that is needed.”

Emily took off her crystal that glowed different colors. She placed it in the chest piece. 

“The two left undiscovered are located around Black Sea in Bulgaria. Cape Emine, during the Middle Ages, there was a fortress called Emona on Cape Emine. 

❧

Ariel suiting up in her Dragon Order Armor and taking three other’s. Emily would go but only to pin point the armor pieces. She put on the gear she was given from Kirk. She would not fight. Ariel handed her two guns that she had designed, “Kirk said you had a good eye; hopefully you won’t need them.”

She put her guns in the holsters and was given extra rounds. Within three hours they were near their location. They leaped out of the helicopter into the water below. All four arrived on shore as they saw the area Emily had seen. She touched the ground and saw where they should go. Up ahead eyes were watching them as they sensed intruders. Emily saw the creatures that guarded the armor as did the others. Her hands reached for her side arms as Ariel motioned everyone to spread out. They quickly advanced moving where the armor pieces were; and soon black dogs came out. They came bolting out and went after Emily. The bullets were made of iron and each one hitting their marks. Ariel moves through the shadows using her speed to cut through the enemies within. Emily taking the chance went after the pieces. She found the tomb that within was held the armor. Emily grabbed the gauntlets and the shield; then put them in the cases. She ran as Ariel covered her; they left before more creatures came out of the woodwork. On their way back to the castle. 

❧

Kirk crouched down as Igor and Friedrich along with two alphas went inside the warlords home. Humans but well informed of who the guests were. They spoke in a language that Kirk wasn’t too familiar with. He waited for his signal once he saw it; he moved quickly. Information was that the armor was secured. Kirk was to break through and retrieve it. He moved with the shadows; though he was big for a werewolf, he was quick. The warlord was all but done; money he had but what he wanted was to be turned.

Igor knew turning the man would be irresponsible and would be a waste of power. The Warlord held up the piece of armor they had sent Kirk after. Upstairs they heard gun shots and roaring; the Warlord smiled but it was shortly lived. Kirk threw the men who were guarding the case down from the stairs. Kirk leaped down and was in werewolf form. Igor was now smiling when Friedrich took the armor piece. They left and behind them the mansion exploded; for no one messed with the werewolf king. 

❧

Elizabeth knew a scientist from her past who owed her a favor. She was going to call on that favor. She  had stolen the poison that was used to make the drug that turned humans into monsters without changing them. Also because her people were killed by silver; find an antidote for silver. Her friend worked on the sly; he didn’t like working for government or major companies. She scoped the area out before going to him. He was at least 60 years old but from his smell he was dying. She was gonna make him an offer he couldn’t resist.

“Hello Stephen, how are you doing old friend?”

“Elizabeth! How are you?”

“I am good... how long did they give you?”

“How did you know; nobody knows. But then again all my love ones are gone. I got three months or less; and I still have work to be done. Honestly I’m not ready. I thought I was but I really haven’t done much in my life.”

“What if I told you I could help you and all I need from you is to trust me.”

“What do you mean?”

“I can make you immortal; but the price is this: I need you to break this down. You up for the challenge.”

“Oh hell, I don’t got anything to lose. What do you got for me?”

❧

She handed him one of the tubes keeping what she had as a back up. 

“Listen I’ll be back in four days; hopefully, you’ll have something for me.”

“Do you still have my baggage here?”

He pointed to the back room and she headed that way. In her baggage was passports and money and clothing and bunch of other things. She had told Vlad she was working as an archeologist; however she hadn’t fully lied. She was on a dig but not for a museum. She would go to different countries and get artifacts and bring them back to the highest bidder. The sword she was bringing back was for an unknown man; little did she know that the past would comeback. He no longer wanted the sword but Ariel. Elizabeth had connections but had went silent for a while. She was trying to live a better life but she didn’t know Emily would be the one to open old wounds. Her mission was to get the evidence behind the drugs; who would give the Georg Andreas Helwing II the means to start, another plague. She remembered the stories that Vlad and other vampires told of peasants; who without a shadow of doubt, believed that the dead who rose from their tombs as vampires  had spread the disease. 

❧

She knew the plague that struck the Baltic Sea and East-Central Europe, bubonic plague epidemic of 1708 through 1712. The bubonic plague epidemic which kicked off mass hysteria because back then, lore was more believable then science.

She knew from research that superstitions were believed and spread quicker than the plague itself. Especially amongst common folk; but Georg Andreas Helwing II father Helwing tried to contain the disease with scientific methods; only furthering the stories of monsters, such as:vampire hysteria. She went back a little further to the Black Death of 1346 through 1353; this hit Eurasia and parts of Africa, killing over 80,000,000 people. 

She knew that someone wanted to punish monsters for causing plagues; even though it was bad hygiene and superstitious that done many in. People back then killed cats because they were considered witches’ familiars. Because cats were being killed, rat populations increased. Which rats carried fleas; basically a chain reaction. Elizabeth finally grabbed what she needed and left. Chicago was a two hour drive from where she was; she was already running late. She knew whoever was behind this wanted to make the monster world pay for a crime they didn’t commit. 

Chapter 7

Awakening

Ariel put every piece of the armor together only the two missing pieces were left. Emily looking tired was ordered by Ariel to rest; for there was more to come.

Emily in less than two weeks had became a vampire, been marked as werewolf mate; went on her first mission, and now was given a moment to breathe. Kirk was in their room resting his eyes; he had passed his test and now was waiting for another order. Emily came in the room and laid down beside him. He had only been back a week as Igor and Vlad was waiting on their next move. She felt his warmth of his flesh and wondered what it would be like to be loved physically by him. He wrapped her up in giant arms as she felt like ice. He missed her warmth but he had loved her no less.

“Too late now to think how my family will take this.”

“They’ll love you even if they won’t understand at first. We will find a way to tell them when the time comes.”

“You think this is over yet?”

“I don’t know just yet. I do have something for you though.”

“What is that my love?”

He moved away from her and got on his knee and opened up a jewelry box.

“Emily my own vampire queen; I’m asking you to be mine forever.”

She hugged him tightly and kissed him, “yes... I will be your wife.”

“When we get the opportunity I will find someone to marry us. Let’s rest and later we will go find you a dress till then.”

They slept for a couple of hours and headed into town. She had found a beautiful gown that fitted her perfectly. She looked at her engagement ring and it was his family’s crescent. She went and looked for a ring for him and found one that would be perfect for him. They headed back to the castle and had everything packed up for when they would leave again. She kissed him and he was kissing her mark he had given her; she licked his neck and had a sudden urge.

She didn’t think twice as her fangs found a sweet spot to bite down on. Through his blood she had seen his life’s story. She released him once she knew he was too was marked. All she knew she wanted him but instead she remembered her promise. Emily met up with Ariel and they headed to the Castle of Csejte, in Slovakia. Kirk and Friedrich were to go with them as Vlad was heading to Ecsed, Hungary. He remembered stories of her body going missing. He knew her death was in November 1614. 

Ariel had done some searching till she found some historical facts; which according to some sources due to an outcry over the Countess’ murderous acts her body was removed. Her burial was supposedly in her family’s cemetery in Ecsed. However after an investigation was done; the location of her body had yet to be found. So Vlad and his men were going to do some investigation of their own. He knew a bookman, who came from a long line of scholars. 

❧

They waited till after midnight to go do some research of the grounds. Emily seeing the ghost of the women who tortured and killed showed her their memories. She learned that it came to an end when Lutheran minister was an informer for the authorities.

“A Lutheran minister?”

Ariel looked at Emily, “Are you sure that is what they said?”

“Yes.. they gave me an image of the minister and it matches the picture of the man.”

“How can that be; Helwing was born in December 14, 1666 and then he died January 3, 1748; he was 82 years old. Countess Elizabeth Bathory was born 1560 and then she died 1604. That’s sixty-two years before he was born.”

“We are missing something; hopefully Vlad has some more info then we do...”

They headed back to Romania and would wait there for Vlad; they were gonna have to dig deep in the search for Bathory’s body.

❧

The bookman was a short man, a midget that lived in his parent’s library. His parents were already dead; and he ran the building. He mainly stayed in the basement to do research. His wife was also a midget but she, like him loved books. Their two children were Book conservators; the youngest one was going to college to be a historian. 

“Jacob it’s good to see you again.”

He looked up and saw Ariel’s uncle, Vlad Dracula.

“Voivode of Wallachia, surprising to see you and not your niece. What brings you here?”

Jacob bowed out of respect plus he rather enjoy Ariel’s intellectual conversations. 

“What can you tell me about Bathory, the Blood countess?”

“Historically or conspiracy?”

“Both.”

The little man jumped down and called his daughter, Olga.

“Daughter once you are done here, keep you mouth shut. Meet Voivode...”

“Oh my gosh, that’s Vlad Dracula! I did a study on your war tactics. Your pictures don’t do you justice.”

Vlad grinned as Jacob was trying to apologize for his daughter’s fan girl outburst.

Vlad waived it off as Jacob and Olga were gathering documents and books. 

“Here is all we have historically however my daughter here has been collecting conspiracies since birth.” Vlad snapped his fingers to his men and allowed them to carry everything to the limo.

“For you service and the confidentiality agreement.”

❧

Ariel’s eye scanned all the books and documents and knew it was going to be a very long night. Emily grabbing markers and pads of paper and groaned. 

“I thought after high school, I wouldn’t have to be doing research.”

“Well, it could be worse.”

Ariel grinned and Emily pretended to drag her feet and groan as a mummy. Laughter came out of the room as the men had their own mission. 

“Elizabeth left! When?”

“Three days ago. We thought she was in her chambers because she had it locked. We went in there and nothing only this note.”

He read the letter and his eyes glared. 

“There is more, the Chicago vampires were attacked by some red head vampiress.”

“A new vampire or drugged human?”

“You may wanna see for yourself , sire.”

He followed the agent to the security room that was set up on the backside of the castle. Images were brought up and enhanced; the security played the video for Vlad, he saw his wife. 

“What did she take?”

“Apparently the case had the pieces of armor in it.”

One of his men came into the security room with a case. All the pieces were there that had been taken. He knew then she was trying to earn back her place at his side. He had never taken back a lover once they betrayed; and he killed those who had betrayed him, he still loved her beyond measures.

❧

She was back at her friend’s warehouse. Stephen was smiling; she knew he broken the code. Behind her was a man who she brought back to find out information. Going down to the basement she bound the man with silver and made sure he couldn’t escape. 

“You have information and you’re gonna talk; or we are using you as a test subject.”

He glared at her but she stabbed him with a iron spike. 

“Don’t get any ideas lovely; if you move after I push this button, silver will spread throughout your body; it will be a slow painful death. If you try activating it; to prevent from answering questions, I’ll bring you back as a ghoul. Then you can’t refuse answering my questions. Also, I have learned a lot from Vlad; do not think I will hesitate. Do we understand each other?”

❧

She pressed the button and went to work. Her friend handed her the serum, to find out what it did to monsters. 

“It causes sickness to our kind; doesn’t it.”

She stabbed the man again from his ribs up. He still glared at her then without thinking twice started to filet him. She took her time until he finally agreed to talk.

“The drug has two different side effects; in humans it gives them inhuman strengths but in us, it gives us diseases.”

“Why? Who made this and the purpose?”

“The line of Georg Andreas Helwing wanted to avenge the deaths lost during the Black Plague and those who died was because of us.”

“Why help his line?”

“The counsel consists of ancient vampires and werewolves plus pure bloods. We are neither; our voices are not heard. With the counsel terminated; would be freedom for those of us who were made; like you. Think about it with a plague that could wipe out every true blood monster; we who are made can start all over.”

“How?”

“The heart of Bathory; she was the key to unlocking this virus. We were trying to find all the pieces of armor because with that we could rule.”

“What about the Oracle?”

❧

He started laughing, “You think Emily is the only one? There are twelve; it takes 12 to unleash the hell that is waiting. We already have the eight; Emily is the key to unlocking Bathory’s ghoul. They already have begun awakening her. Helwing’s son wanted Ariel to give him a child but when she crushed his wolf spirit; it began plan B.”

“When does this begin?”

He grinned as she put gloves on tore open another wound and then poured holy water.

“When does this begin?”

He howled in pain, “The blood moon once they begin the incantation they just need it to be a full moon; when the blood moon shines down on the oracles then the plague will be set free.”

“What can stop this?”

“A member of Elizabeth Bathory’s line... only she can eat the heart of the blood queen.”

She threw him into a silver cage and had the recording uploading onto Vlad’s security team. She messaged Ariel to have her check the video.

“Stephen can you make an antidote for silver?”

“Yes. And I can break down this drug too.”

“Old friend, if you don’t want to be turned; know I appreciate your help, but if you do let me know now.”

❧

Ariel half asleep getting a text message. She ran to the security room and started to listen to the video, “Go get my uncle and Friedrich now! Double the security around Emily. No one comes on this property without a pass. Now, hurry!”

Vlad and Friedrich came rushing in and without waiting on them to ask she played the video. 

Vlad watched his wife torturing some vampire for answers. At the end she came on the video as a recording, “my friend Stephen wants to be turned. Right now he is working on a new weapon for us. The vampire that was tortured is in a holding cell, someone needs to retrieve everything here. Vlad, darling, I made a deal with Helwing’s offspring to push Ariel away. I didn’t see the bigger picture because I was afraid for you. I was wrong; but I’m making it right, now. I didn’t know he was going to attack her or her children; he turned on me, and I was a fool. I am not just Elizabeth Thacker; it was a fake name. I was a treasure hunter; I was hired to retrieve the sword and bring it back to the States. I was hired by the same vampire, as you saw here being tortured; I am going to find a member of the Bathory line. Either with or without you; I meant what I said; I was betrayed and was stupid. I made a mistake; if you have any love for me still, forgive me. If not, once our child is born I will not be found. Just love our child and protect him or her.”

❧

Ariel looked at her uncle, “I’m going to find her uncle. She made a mistake and I know she didn’t mean for what had happened. You guys can stay here but I’m going.”

Ariel suiting up and got her gear together; Vlad was waiting on her, “you’re not going by yourself to retrieve my wife.”

“Uncle you are one, stubborn hard ass but I love you. Please, find it in your heart to forgive Elizabeth.”

“Forgiveness is weakness my dear...”

“Forgiveness is also freedom my uncle. We both had been attacked by our enemies; you most of all, so I know forgiveness is hard when you want revenge. It was hard to forgive Irina; but I did. Helwing’s offspring tricked Elizabeth and she is going above and beyond to seek your forgiveness. Any other woman would have accepted your decision; but she refuses and because she wants your trust back; she is willing to fight for a chance to prove herself to you. That takes balls.”

“Ariel you’re starting to get on my nerves; you read too much.”

“Aye, but face it, you love me too much to hate me, uncle.”

Chapter 8

Into The Fire

Friedrich ordered Slayers to protect Emily at Ariel’s uncle Rayburn’s castle. Kirk and a few other werewolves were covering the grounds. After Friedrich set up a few monitors and made sure everything was good to go; his men and he headed to the States. They  we’re going to retrieve the man named Stephen and the vampire prisoner. 

Stephen packing everything up and making sure he had Elizabeth’s boxed ready to go. Right when she said they would arrive; they were armed and at the door. Stephen opened the door and handed the man in charge Elizabeth’s calling card. Within an hour everything and everyone was gone. The entire building was cleaned, cleared, and secured. 

❧

After Friedrich left, Kirk and Emily left on his motorcycle; to the nearest priest that would marry them. The priest was a Shapeshifter and he was at first skeptical of the new law; but after Emily touched his hand, she gave him the vision of the agreement made by the Elders. Earlier he had a ring resized that was his mother’s ring of the pack’s emblem. A crescent moon with the North Star as a guide. She too had gotten him a ring; a cross emblem. They exchanged their vows and kissed a soft passionate kiss. He carried her out of the church and they rode on his motorcycle back to the castle. He carried her up to their room. 

“Ariel, if you want to wait; I understand, I don’t want to hurt you.”

She smiled at him and headed into the shower to freshen up. She put on her light pink gown she picked out. She was nervous but she stepped out with a smile. She saw his canines grow some and he grabbed her and started kissing her mark. 

❧

She felt the heat of his body against her cold flesh. He reached under gown exploring her body from her breast down. Kirk ripped her gown off with his teeth. She saw his eyes glow amber color. He caressed her breast lovingly then erotically moved his mouth from one nipple to the other. Flicking and licking with his tongue pinning her wrist above her head. With his other hand he moved his finger tips down to her waist and then down to her nether region and using his fingers to make them enflamed lips. His animal cravings were taking over as he moved his lips further south. She felt his tongue all over her lady parts. She  quivered from all the ecstasy and she was trying to stay quiet. Sweet juices was released after he was finishing but he was far from being done. His shaft was hard and he couldn’t hold out any longer. He slid himself in at first she cried in pain but then he had put his hand over her mouth to keep her muffled. Tonight he was taking it slowly with her; making every moment last until he couldn’t hold back. She dug her nails into his flesh and without thinking twice her fangs came out and bit between his neck and shoulder. She didn’t let go and he went a little harder and then faster. She released her fangs from his flesh. Her face hidden in his chest until he let go. He kissed her neck and lips as she fell asleep. 

❧

He held her close to his chest covering himself and her up in a thick blanket. He lifted her left hand up and kissed her hand and her ring up; she was now his Luna. In his fifty years he had not been married or as close to anyone. He had a few flings but nothing like he had with her. He rubbed her belly how soft she felt against his skin. In a few months they would have their first pups. With some mates they had one to three pups; but not one werewolf had a vampire bride, so he didn’t know until it was time for her to give birth. He kissed her once more before he too went to sleep. 

Outside the castle walls red eyes were lurking scoping out their target. They were waiting on the signal to attack; however they were only to bring the Oracle and Ariel’s children alive. One of her children was an enchantress. 

❧

Alexander was drinking coffee when suits came into town. They went directly to the coffee shop and spoke to no one. The owner of the shop got a really bad feeling and hit the button. He saw what they were when their eyes turned black. The suv outside was set off as two more suits walked out. Alexander and his son Tony watched from the screen as the town was under attack. Shots were fired as many monsters were gunned down; from children and their parents to older folks who came here to retire. Slayers were activated and came in with guns a blazing. The silver they were using was proving to ineffective. The creature’s were proving to be more aggressive. The power they drew pushed the Slayers back against the walls. Alexander and Tony rushed out firing their weapons that was designed by Ariel. Which seemed to be showing some effects. A black car showed up with Ariel and Vlad. Ariel using her powers to block as Vlad shot fire from his guns. The diamonds proved to be able to hold the vampire’s power. 

She looked at the Slayers, “Get as many as you can to the base and get them the hell out of here!”

❧

She grabbed her swords and ran towards the suits; her swords were dipped in poison that’s what Elizabeth suggested. She moved quickly slaying them where they stand. 

“Take the bodies and clean up this town; we’re evacuating this town.” Vlad barking out orders. Alexander sending an alert to all monsters what had happened. 

She looked at the town that her and her mother created; to be a haven for those who wanted peace. Now it was quarantined and cleared. 

“Uncle I think we are gonna have many more deaths.”

“Work the scene as you were when you were a detective.”

She nodded and started looking at everything; her eyes went to the coffee shop. Creatures were still in there; trapped. 

“Those are iron bars; not silver. These aren’t regular ghouls. They went after monsters...”

“Can we bring them back alive?”

“We will need iron.”

Her mother’s old house was not too far; she found her mother’s weapons room. She didn’t take everything; so there should still be some stuff left behind. With some luck she found liquid iron and tranquilizer that can be filled with iron. She came back and nodded. She went inside and shot all four of the suits. The inside of the coffee shop was cleaned and secured. 

❧

They headed for the base command where interrogation would begin. Friedrich was already there making sure everyone was taken care of, “How many dead?”

“We got fifty dead, twelve in critical condition, and a few minor injuries. What prompted the attack?”

Vlad having the suites ghouls taken downstairs to the basement; “An alert went off; Ariel intercepted the transmission of a signal. We came here. The town was about to get slaughtered.”

Ariel coming back from checking the bodies of the ghouls and set down some microchips, “They we’re programmed to come here and attack. Whoever sent them; had created these ghouls for a specific purpose: programmed to seek and destroy; this town was a test run.”

❧

Downstairs the creature’s were attacking the iron bars and were screeching as they were being burned. They were at the far end when they started shaking and having tremors; they fell to their knees and exploded. Their entrails were spread out and exposed. The dark shadow left for the ghouls were not yet ready. He growled knowing that his plans again were destroyed against Ariel. Last time she crushed his link and now he was a lost soul. The blood moon will happen and there would be no mistakes; through the walls he went, no traces of him being there whatsoever.

Vlad going downstairs saw the mess and swearing as he went back upstairs.

“Did anyone go to the basement?

“No one should be going downstairs except you, uncle.”

Ariel went to search the. Videos of the last hour and watching the creatures blowing up on screen. She typed in the surveillance and catching a smoke. She typed enhancing the image to realize what her daughter was talking about; she said Ariel had crushed the link but not the creature, itself.

This is where Emily was needed as she was in Scotland waiting on everyone to comeback. Elizabeth still hadn’t gotten a hold of anybody yet; the alert went out, any crypto communities were to keep eyes out for men in suits. 

Ariel went back out looking at the scene trying to find any evidence; she went through footage from the coffee shop. Next stop was the police station find out if the meat suits were anyone locally. The whole town was a ghost town. She thought about if the black mist could inhabit humans; could creatures be used as meat suits, it was a possibility she couldn’t ignore. 

❧

She collected enough evidence to be brought back to Scotland. The crypto community was relocated to another undisclosed area till the black mist was dealt with. Dr Stephen was at the base camp reviewing everything that was collected and then he searched the bodies that had been exploded. No wonder Elizabeth trusted the old man; he was going through everything in great detail. He took the microchips and went through all of the information he could dig up. 

“I don’t think or believe these were ghouls at all. If these chips were not inside these men; they would’ve attacking anybody at random. These are zombies; designed to attack specifically crypto creatures. 

“Ariel can you come down to the morgue; we got a situation, like  right now!”

She ran to the morgue and saw that the dead creatures were clawing at the door. Her worse fears were coming alive; right in front of her. She opened the hatch and threw in grenades. 

“Get everyone who was injured even minor injuries and put them in the jail; hurry!”

Within an hour everyone who was hurt from earlier was put in behind bars. Stephen extracting blood from each and comparing the samples from those who were officially dead.

“They are infected. This disease gives the living possibly 8 to 12 hours till they change. However the dead it apparently it takes up to four hours.”

“Can there be a cure?”

“It’s going to take a few days and I cannot guaranteed that it would even work; maybe if I can do a preventative treatments, but regardless I don’t know how long it will take.”

“My wife said you wanted to be changed; is this true?” Vlad starring at the man.

“I have no one to go home to; I am utterly alone. This work is all I have; so yes.”

Without hesitation Vlad bit Stephen draining the older man; then Vlad cut open his wrist and poured his blood into Stephen’s mouth. 

“Put him in one of the holding cells... when he awakens start giving him blood packets.”