 
### Marcella

### Vampire Mage

By

### Elizabeth Loraine

Published by Elizabeth Loraine at Smashwords

Copyright 2010 Elizabeth Loraine

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each reader. If you're reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

### Foreword

The character of Marcella is introduced in the third book of my series Royal Blood Chronicles and she plays a pivotal part in that story. Sister of Cain and half sister to Damien she is now part of the larger group known as the Protectors. I received many requests to write more about Marcella and hope that this short story will intrigue you. I hope you enjoy this look as her life begins following her escape from Althar and after living for a year at Mormont.

Elizabeth Loraine

### CHAPTER ONE

I can't say that I was raised in the underworld. I really only existed. My brother Cain was my only protection for fourteen years until we escaped the underworld Kingdom of Althar and the veil of evil that surrounded and nearly consumed us.

It was because of Damien, our newly found half-brother, we escaped, survived and now blossomed in the upper world. The shroud of secrecy surrounding the vampire world here was nothing in comparison with what blanketed the dark, red, glowing world below in Althar. Now away from Althar's influence, I felt free for the first time. Free to choose my own way in this new world. I have skills in magic, something quite rare for a vampire and for the past year have been studying my craft and training with Allwain and Tao.

While magic can be taught, few are truly gifted. So I am proud to have been chosen to perfect my skills in the most magical place of this world; with the High Priestess of the witches, Niranjana. I am excited to be joining the next class at her compound.

### ~~~~

"Marcella, this will be your room."

"Thank you, Niranjana. I am so grateful for this opportunity. I won't let you down."

"I know you won't Marcella. We're glad to have you, and please call me Nira. Samantha will be back any time now. She'll be your roommate. I have a full class for the first time in many, many years. So many talented young people. Allwain was right; it's been far too long."

She smiled, and it lit up her soft green eyes. "If you need anything I'll be downstairs. We start classes in a few days. Until then, I just want you to relax and get to know the others."

"How many are in the new class, Nira?"

"With you, seven."

Just like that I was alone. The new room was spacious. I was still getting used to the world of light. The cocoon of the underworld had released me, but I hadn't totally released it. Even after a year, I was still looking over my shoulder, expecting evil beings to pounce from every shadow. Old habits die hard and even as I knew I was safe here, I still looked through the room, poking into drawers, behind doors and cabinets. After looking under the beds, I was satisfied there were no dangers here.

The room contained two single beds. Both were covered with white frilly, lace ruffled coverlets. Since one had a satchel next to it, and an open book resting on top, I sat down on the other.

I had next nothing to unpack. I wasn't bothered by my lack of possessions now, since in fact, I really had never owned anything before. The things in my cases had been provided to me by Katrina. Things had always been provided for me in Althar and to say my possessions were meager was to give them a status much higher than they deserved. Having no mother or father to watch out for me, meant that I was largely ignored. But being ignored all of my life had its benefits too. Left to my own devices, I studied magic out of a book that I'd acquired from a powerful wizard, practicing the spells in my room until I became adept. My aunt Luena had been trained in magic by a Dark Wizard and I followed her to each lesson, secreting myself to observe and take notes. She was proficient, but didn't have my natural talent for the craft. The penalty for spying on my aunt would have been severe, had I been caught. But had it been known that I was actually practicing magic, not even my aunt could have saved me. Girls in the underworld were usually not even taught to read and write, let alone given access to anything as important and secrete as magic. But since my aunt and my mother were of royal blood, from a powerful family, I was deemed worthy enough to be schooled and through exception, allowed some access to what books we had.

Freedom to learn was one of the most exciting things that happened when Cain and I were brought from the underworld to the world of light and to Mormont by Damien.

Mormont was one of the fanciful castles of one's dreams and within the safety of its walls there was a library so grand, that even in my wildest imaginings I could not have conjured. There were row upon rows of masterfully written prose in glorious gilded leather bindings. Teachings from every continent, and illustrated texts, oh the beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Even now thinking of it makes me swoon. The scent of it still lingers in my head.

The doorknob twisted causing me to look in that direction. In walked a gangly, young girl. Short wavy, red hair covered her head like a cap. Her round pale face, now set with a smile that curved her lips and crinkled the corners of her golden eyes, was pale and covered in freckles. There was sweetness to her scent.

"Oh, hello. Nira said I'd be getting a roommate. I'm Sammy, it's short for Samantha, but no one but Nira ever calls me that."

"Marcella, nice to meet you, Sammy."

She walked closer, she squinted her eyes as she appraised me. "I'd call you Marcy for short, but you don't look like a Marcy." She thought for a moment, tapping her finger on her chin. "How about Cella?"

"Cella...I like it."

She smiled. "Cella it is. I was just out gathering mushrooms. I could show you around if you like. It's just about lunchtime. We can meet the others afterwards."

"That sounds nice."

We walked through the magical house together.

"The colors change as we walk!" The effect was amazing. I smiled in delight.

"It reflects your aura. You're very positive aren't you? See the walls around us are pink. That's you. I'm yellow, inquisitive."

"You mean nosey, don't you?"

"Oh, very funny. Richey, this is Cella."

"I'm Richard. Samantha insists on giving everyone a shorter name."

"I like my shorter name. Nice to meet you, Richard."

Richard was tall and dressed simply in black pants and shirt. I was used to handsome men. Vampires all tended to be very good looking, but this warlock was really amazing. His sculpted features and copper eyes made me feel weak. His smile created the cutest deep dimples in his cheeks.

Sammy sighed. "Come on Cella. Happens every time," she said under her breath. "See you at lunch, Richey."

She shook her head, still mumbling as she pushed by Richard.

"I guess I better go." I watched her walk away

"We'll have plenty of time to get to know each other better. I'll save you a seat at lunch."

All I could do was smile and nod. As my face began to warm, I quickly followed Sammy, so he wouldn't see how much he had affected me.

"You'll get over it," Sammy said, once we were out of Richards's sight.

"What do you mean?"

"He has that affect on all the girls. He's my cousin by the way."

She must have noticed the questioning look on my face. "I know, we don't look anything alike. I'm the ugly duckling of our family. Everyone else looks like Richey."

"You are not ugly, and even if you were truly an ugly duckling, it just means your destiny is to be a beautiful swan."

She shook her head again. "Look at the walls, they're all pink now. We're going to be really good friends, aren't we?"

"Yes, I think you're right. Sammy, am I the only vampire here?"

"Well vampires usually aren't very magical beings. They have other talents. So yes, you are the only one. Three witches, two warlocks and one high elf, and you of course."

"So no wizards?"

"They have their own school."

### CHAPTER TWO

"I can't wait to show you the forest. It's my favorite place here."

We walked out the door and I turned to see the beautiful Tudor style cottage, with its thick thatch roof, begin to fade from sight. I cast a glance over to Sammy who just smiled.

"Don't worry it's still there, it's just blended into the background now. Let's go down to the lake."

"That sounds nice. I'm just happy to be outside in the fresh air with a blue sky overhead."

Sammy stopped and frowned. "What color sky did you have?"

"None; I grew up in Althar. It's the upper kingdom of the underworld."

Sammy's mouth dropped open. "That's amazing. Oh you have to tell me all about it."

"I will, just not now, all right?"

"I didn't mean to upset you. It's just that I've never met anyone that has been to the underworld before."

"Well, not many get out. Which way to the lake?"

Sammy started down the narrow path again. "It's not far now."

Out of the corner of my eye I saw movement behind the large trees just off the path.

"I think we're being followed," I whispered.

"Probably one of the Fae," Sammy said dismissively. "There are several different kinds that live here. They just watch. I have yet to be able to engage one in conversation. They always run off. Don't worry, nothing here is dangerous."

I turned and looked again. A young man was peeking around a tree. His large brown eyes met mine, and he smiled mischievously before he disappeared into the protective cover of the forest.

"Come on, Cella," Sammy pleaded.

The canopy of trees was welcoming and safe. It felt like the mother's arms I'd always longed for. As the path twisted through the forest, shafts of light painted the ferns below, a shimmering gold. I took in all the scents, and reveled in the sheer bliss of it. I'd been in the upper world for over a year now, and I was still amazed by the colors, textures and smells of this world.

Finally the lake came into view.

"Looks like others had the same idea. Luke, Morna, meet Cella, she's the newest arrival."

I felt my stomach tense. "Hello."

Morna looked up and in typical elf manner, he slowly inspected every detail of me. Luke, however, only glanced over, preferring to concentrate on his fishing.

"Why do you insist on doing that? Sammy asked him. "Nira conjures all the food that we need.".

"I like the peacefulness of it, the challenge." He sighed. "I never catch anything anyway. Nice to meet you, Cella."

"Yes, nice to meet you," Morna added. "I believe you're the last to arrive. A vampire? That is unexpected."

"That's right, and sent here by the Lord of the Wizards himself. So you'd better not underestimate her."

Morna seemed unimpressed. He reminded me of Tao, Allwain's trusted assistant and the same Lord of Wizards that Sammy just spoke of. Morna's hair was the same color as Tao's, very light blonde and drifted over his shoulders in the same way too. Luke, on the other hand, was stocky with short dark hair and a ruddy complexion.

"Seen any unicorn this morning?" he asked.

"No, but then I haven't been looking. We're going to the glen; see you at lunch later."

"It is nice to meet you both," I said, feeling totally inept.

"You've met almost everyone now." Sammy informed me as we took the trail away from the lake.

"There's really unicorn here?" I asked her, excited at the prospect of actually seeing one of the mythical animals.

"Supposedly, I haven't seen any yet. They're shy, and they have to really trust you in order to show themselves."

"I would love to see one. I never saw anything that wasn't evil in Althar. Once I was free, and living at Mormont, one of my favorite places was the stable there. I grew to love the horses. But Katrina had dogs, cats, and birds and all kinds of animals that I loved too."

"Katrina? Are you talking about the leader of the Five?"

I had to smile, Sammy looked so shocked.

"My brother is going to marry her."

"That's amazing, Cella. Wait until the others hear."

"No Sammy. I don't want anyone else to know. They will think, well, that I don't deserve to be here. That I'm just here because of them."

"Oh, all right. I would just love to meet any of the Protectors. But to actually meet Katrina, that would be great. Someday I want to help them fight evil, to help them protect the peaceful races."

I giggled, hearing this passion coming out of her small form was just so cute. "I'm sorry, I know just how you feel. It's why I want to study magic too. I've seen firsthand those they fight, and what Katrina and the others have given up to keep the rest of us safe."

"Your connection to them will be our secret then. But Cella, will you take me to meet them someday?"

"Of course, now where is this glen you were talking about?"

Sammy pointed straight ahead. "See the stream. If we follow that it will lead us right through it."

I closed my eyes for a second. I could hear the bubbling water as it moved across the rocks on its way to the lake.

"I love this place, Sammy."

"I know; me too."

We spent the rest of the morning exploring the glen, getting to know each other and just enjoying the our time.

Finally Sammy announced, "We should go back. Nira likes everyone to be on time for meals."

I never felt so relaxed. "All right," I was reluctant to leave. "But I want to come back here."

Sammy stood and reached out her hand. "Come on."

I smiled and let her pull me up.

"Nira said we aren't starting classes for a couple of days," Sammy said as we started back across the glen. "We'll have plenty of time to explore."

When we got back, the males in our group were already in the dining room. The buffet table held several dishes and bowls of food. I had my Crimson tablets, but I would use them in private. There was no way I was going to call more attention to the fact that I was the only vampire.

"See any unicorns?" Luke teased.

"No, but we did see a couple of very strange beings at the lake," Sammy joked, as we filled our bowls with hot soup and joined, Richard, Luke, and Morna at the table.

Richard pulled out a chair for me, so I sat next to him. My vampire hearing picked up Sammy's grousing under her breath about it.

"Thank you," I said shyly.

Then we heard chortling from the hallway. Two very beautiful young women entered the room.

"The witches are here," one declared, heralding their arrival and the other sniggered. "Oh, who's the newcomer?"

"Sabine, Georgia, this is Cella," Sammy gestured to me.

"It's really Marcella, but everyone is calling me Cella now, I guess. Nice to meet you both." I said nervously.

They both gave me the once over, neither hiding their disdain.

They put some food on their plates and plopped down across from Richard and me. Sammy sat on their left.

Sabine smiled seductively at Richard. "There's a full moon tonight. It will be beautiful down by the lake."

He smiled back. "You're right. How about we have a magical bonfire and enjoy it together? How about it everyone?" he invited.

I had watched Sabine's expression as Richard talked. The brightness soured as his invitation to the lake was extended to all.

"Sure; sounds fun, doesn't it Cella?" Sammy said, excitedly. Then she scooped another spoonful of soup, found it full of worms and let out a loud screech.

I jumped too and knocked my bowl, now also crawling with worms, onto the floor.

Sabine snickered. "I think I'll catch up on my reading. Come, Georgia."

As they left, I snapped my fingers, and watched as the spill reversed until it was back in the bowl. With one more flick of my forefinger Sabine's spell was broken and the worms disappeared.

I gave Sammy a wink, and she smiled. "You're great, Cella. That Sabine makes me so mad. She thinks just because her father is head of the Warlock Council she and her comrade Georgia, can do whatever they want. If they knew you were vampire royalty and so close to the Five..." Realizing what she had said, Sammy glanced over and saw me shake my head,

"Never mind," she covered. "Sorry, I was ranting. She just makes me so mad."

"She's met her match in you, Cella. It'll do her good to have someone who can match her spell by spell," Luke hooted.

"I just want to do what we're here to do. Learn and perfect the skills that Nira has so graciously offered to teach me. If you'll excuse me, I have some things to do."

I pushed away from the table and tried to keep myself from running out of the room. Why was I feeling this way? I hadn't done anything wrong.

Why did I come here anyway? I was just fine working with Allwain. I fit in at Mormont and was happy when I traveled to our compound in America.

"Feeling a little homesick and sorry for yourself?"

"Nira. Yes, I guess I am. I know it's a waste of time."

She smiled and stepped closer, gathering me into her arms. I couldn't help it, I even bit my lip, but the tears flowed anyway.

"Shh, I know it's overwhelming right now. Everything is so different for you in our world. But darling, you're a survivor. You're so much stronger than you give yourself credit for. Not many could have made it through what you did."

"I just feel so alone, empty."

"I'm sorry; it will get better, I promise. Why don't you come with me and we'll scrye your brother?"

"Thank you, Nira, I do miss him and Damien, but I need to do this without him. I think I'll just feel worse if I see him right now."

She squeezed me again. "I understand. You can always come to me, you know. I brought you here because you are truly gifted. More gifted than any student since Amparah came to me and she's a witch. It's been a very long time ago since someone with your potential has been here for training.."

I pushed away and wiped my face. "I think I'll take a walk."

Nira smiled. "Why don't you follow the stream across the glen through the woods? You'll find my favorite place there, a trickle of a waterfall into a small pond."

"Sounds like just what I need. And no more feeling sorry for myself, I promise."

I walked down to the lake on the path Sammy and I had taken before, keeping my eye out for any curious Fae. I actually felt disappointed that I saw nothing this time. Amparah had taken me to the Sequoia stands not long after we arrived in America, where a very special clan location was protected by Katrina. It was the home of a large colony of Fae and I found the race to be free and mischievous spirits.

I followed the stream, just like Nira suggested, and found her special spot. It was easy to see why she loved it so much.

I pulled up my skirt, quickly kicked off my simple sandals, and sat down on the rocks to dangled my feet into the water. I giggled as tiny fish nibbled at my toes

I heard rustling across the small pond. When I looked up, I inhaled in surprise. There on the grass, where it sloped gently down to the water's rim, was a unicorn. He stood there, his long white mane and tail fluttering in the slight breeze. He bobbed his head up and down as our gaze met.

"It's all right," I whispered, staying as still as I possibly could.

He bobbed his head again, and pawed the ground. He watched me closely, nostrils flaring for a few more minutes, before stepping cautiously to the edge of the pond, only taking his eyes off me as he lowered his head to drink.

The horn in the middle of his forehead was very short, suggesting he was very young animal. This unicorn was about the size of a pony or even that of a very large, long-haired goat. I noted he even sported a slight, billy-goat beard.

"You're beautiful," I cooed.

He stopped drinking and looked over, cocking his head to one side. Using my vampire-sharp sight I saw that he had clear blue eyes framed with lovely long white lashes. I smiled and I could swear he winked at me. Then he turned and briskly trotted away.

I sighed. "I hope I see you again soon."

"His name is Selky."

I jerked around. The Fae I had seen in the forest earlier was standing about ten feet behind me.

"You startled me." I pulled my feet out of the water and stood.

"Sorry, I haven't seen you here before."

"No, I just arrived this morning. I'm Marcella."

"I'm Kaer."

Kaer stepped closer, sniffing the air and looking inquisitively at me.

"I'm a vampire; you've probably never seen or smelled one before."

"Oh, I've seen vampires before, just not one like you."

"What's that suppose to mean?"

"Vampires are supposed to be beautiful, but you're different."

"Are you naturally insulting, or does it take some effort?"

I stood and started to put on my sandals, so that I could leave.

"I didn't mean it the way it sounded. I mean, you're special, that's all."

"I should get back."

"I could show you the others, unicorn I mean."

"Maybe some other time."

"Selky wouldn't have stayed if you weren't worthy of it. That's all I meant."

He sounded apologetic. I turned to say that I might have overreacted, but Kaer was gone. I walked back to the cottage, now not really feeling any better than before. But Kaer was right, I should feel good about the unicorn.

On the way back I'd had some time to think about what Nira said. Although both Allwain and Nira said I deserved to be here, I had definitely felt intimidated, but now I understood to be successful in my training, I had to feel worthy before anyone else would think so. I laughed out loud, realizing that it was the same thing I always told my brother Cain.

I was bound and determined to do something good with the wonderful opportunity Nira had given me. So why was I feeling like this now, when I'd been so excited to come?

"Cella, I was looking all over for you. Are you all right?"

"I will be, Sammy. I just needed some time alone."

"You can't let those two witches get to you; it's what they thrive on. Their families are magic royalty, holders of the crystals."

"I don't care. I'm not here for any other reason than to learn."

"If you don't care, then why did you run off?"

"I was embarrassed, that's true. Even intimidated, but remember this. Evil, the enemies of the Five, don't care who your families are."

"You're right. Cella, how'd you get so smart?"

"I'm not. I made a choice when I was very small; first to survive, and then not to let the evil that surrounded me define who I was going to be."

Sammy locked her gaze to mine. "You're wrong, Cella. You are smart."

We heard Sabine and Georgia talking when we arrived.

"Richard is still as gorgeous as I remember, don't you think?"

Georgia hesitated. "Yes, he is, Sabine, but this isn't Geneva. This certainly isn't about you or Richard."

"Georgia, we may be here to learn, but that doesn't mean that we can't have some fun too. Richard and I are perfect for each other. Doesn't the fact that we were both chosen for this exclusive opportunity prove that?"

"In case you haven't noticed, there are others here too."

"I wouldn't think of leaving you behind, Georgia. I told my father you just had to come with me."

"Wait, Sabine, are you saying I wouldn't have been invited if it wasn't for you?"

"Of course not, Georgia, but having good connections never hurt, did it?"

Georgia watched Sabine walk away. She shook her head and walked back into the dining room. "Connections," she groused under her breath.

Sammy and I were right behind her.

"Still hungry?"

"Our lunch was interrupted, Georgia. We'll just be a minute, don't worry."

"Oh I wasn't worried. I don't think about either of you at all."

She took her things and stomped past us. I chose a piece of chocolate cake and plopped down at the table.

"Good choice," Sammy said, picking an identical piece and sitting down across from me.

I smiled as we scooped up the first bite together.

### CHAPTER THREE

"What do you want to do this afternoon?" Sammy asked. "I brought some great books if you just want to hibernate in our room."

"You know what, that sounds pretty good. We'll take some more snacks and stay in."

"More snacks? You may be able to burn all of this off, but I'm not that blessed."

"You're so thin, it would do you some good to gain a little weight," I teased.

"True, if it's in the right places."

We giggled, and finished our cake.

"I'm stuffed. I think you're right, we don't need more snacks. I'll just get some water."

"I've never been around vampires, aren't you supposed to kill to eat?"

"We don't need to do that anymore."

"Oh, good."

I mixed some Crimson and drank it in private. Being the only vampire in the house made me a little self-conscious and I hated drawing too much attention to my race.

Sammy was propped up on the bed, reading.

"We don't have to read about magic, I have something special." She reached under her bed and brought out several books. "Here, these were written by humans. Their about fantasy creatures and beings like us."

She handed me one. "Grimm's Fairy Tales. This should be interesting." We read for over an hour and then Sammy slammed her book closed.

"These are scary; are we that scary to people? Wicked witches, terrible stepmothers that turn into wicked witches, witches that lure children to them with promises of sweets in order to eat them? It's enough to scare children half to death!"

"You're right, but I saw worse growing up. Maybe I missed my calling. I should be writing Fairy Tales about Althar."

"All right, give it a try? Tell me a story about the underworld. I'd love to hear all about it."

"Well, I really don't want to talk about the scary things, but how about one on the subject of Cathos and his brother Ceron? Let's call this: The Tale of the Handsome Demon Kings."

Sammy's eyes were wide with wonder. "Handsome and Demon isn't something I'm used to hearing in the same sentence. That sounds fantastic, go ahead."

"Let me start by saying that Demon doesn't mean evil. It means of the darkness, of fire. At least in Althar it does. Their kingdom, though full of evil of every kind, is peaceful, for the most part. My brother, Cain, saved King Cathos from the Dark Queen, who had deceived him, had taken his essence from him. She kept it in a container by her bed, as a constant reminder of her victory over him."

"Wait you know them, you've actually met them?"

"Oh yes," I said. "They are considered dear friends of our family now. Cathos and Ceron are dark, yes, but reasonable and just. These men, bothers, are some of the most powerful beings in the underworld. Ceron's palace has everything you could ever need. If you are an invited guest, you never want for anything. All you have to do is ask, and it will be magically provided."

"Anything?"

"Well, I'm sure there are some limitations, but I've never been denied."

Sammy sank deep into her pillow and sighed. "I would love to see it someday. I can't believe what a great roommate I have. You know Kings, and the Five. Tell me about your brother, the one that is going to marry Katrina."

"He's our half-brother; his name is Damien. He's from Austria. His father was High Regent for over a hundred years. Now Katrina's father is High Regent. He's great, too. Of course I never knew about Damien and he didn't know about Cain and me, for all those years. Now that we have each other, I know we'll never be apart again."

"You sure have had an amazing life. I bet you can't wait for the next adventure."

I snickered. "Coming here is the next adventure, Sammy. I just want to be prepared to help in any way I can. Without Damien and Katrina, we would still be in Althar. There is no way I could ever repay them. But I am going to help in any way that I can."

"So am I."

"Tell me about your family, Sammy."

Her expression soured. "They're boring. We live in a very small village in northern England. My parents have an antique shop. Richard's parents have a farm outside the same village. I have three other siblings; they are all a lot older than I am, married and have moved away. Because Richard and I are the same age, we spent a lot of time together when we were little. Now that we're older, we don't have much in common, except for magic. And he's been away at school."

"There were so many times that I wished for your kind of family. Aren't they proud you were invited to Nira's?"

"I guess. They are so busy trying to mask who they are, I don't think it matters."

"Your skill must matter to someone, you were recommended."

"That would be my teacher, well, our teacher; Richard's and mine. He taught both of us at home in the early years."

We heard someone in the hall, and then a knock on the door.

"We're going down to the lake for the bonfire. You coming?"

"Yes, we're coming, Richard."

"I'll be along. I want to change." I called

"So, change. I'm not letting you just sneak in unnoticed."

"How did you know?"

"After what happened at lunch, are you kidding?"

Sammy closed her eyes and a light covered her from top to bottom, when it faded, she was refreshed and had a stylish new outfit on.

Feeling better, I followed with the same spell, picturing what Katrina might wear to a gathering, and then giving it my personal touch.

"Nice," Sammy said approvingly.

"Thanks, let's go."

To our surprise, Richard was waiting patiently downstairs.

"I guess Sabine is still primping," Sammy mumbled.

"You both look lovely. Shall we?" he said gesturing to the door and offering an elbow to each of us.

I smiled shyly and laced my arm in his. My stomach fluttered, something I'd never experienced in my fifteen years.

I looked up at Richard, who just smiled and lead us down the hall.

The door opened and we walked down to the lake together.

"Everyone else is already down there. Faeries and Pixies are invited too."

"That should be very interesting," Sammy added.

"I love Faeries and Pixies. They're fun."

"I guess we are about to find out." Richard teased.

"They're magical beings, just like we are. They deserve respect," I said, and pulled my arm away.

Everyone was gathered around the large bonfire and I could hear music. As I got closer I could see instruments; a mandolin, drum and fiddle, playing themselves a fine jig. Faeries and pixies were dancing and clapping. Even Georgia and Sabine were smiling and laughing.

Luke was dancing with an adorable Faerie maiden while Morna stood apart, watching the festivities with typical Elf reserve.

The surface of the lake was blanketed by a thin fog as the sun began to set. It was as if the sun was being doused by the lake, causing steam to rise from its cool surface.

"Let's dance," I heard Richard say.

As I turned to reply I saw him offer his hand to his cousin Sammy and her face beam with delight.

They danced the jig with glee, and I couldn't help but laugh and clap along. I observed the crowd and noticed Kaer watching me. He nodded in my direction and a smile slowly curved his lips.

I smiled back and noticed Nira behind a table handing out sweets and pouring punch.

I walked over. "Is there anything that I can do?"

"Have some fun, Marcella. Go, have some fun," she insisted shooing me away.

I was hoping to pour punch instead. I don't dance, and I would have to say was inexperienced at 'fun'.

I noticed Sabine glance over and then whisper something to Georgia, who then glanced at me and turned back to Sabine to continue their conversation.

I took a deep breath and strolled in Kaer's direction.

He watched me approach and then stepped out to meet me. I could feel the quickening of my heartbeat and my mouth felt dry.

"I hope you will forgive me."

"There's nothing to forgive, Kaer. Listen, why don't we start over. Call me, Cella," I said, and held out my hand.

He looked at me inquisitively for a moment and smiled. Then he took my hand lightly in his and raised it to his lips.

"Call me, whenever you need me. I promise to always be there for you."

I thought that it was such a strange thing to say to someone he hardly knew.

"Dance with me."

"Oh, I don't..."

Before I could finish he scooped me into his arms and moved us around the fire with the others. I felt like I was floating, and when I looked down, I realized that that's exactly what I was doing. I just relaxed and enjoyed every minute of it.

Soon the music stopped and we floated down to the ground.

"That was fun," Sammy exclaimed as she joined us.

I pulled away from Kaer. "Yes it was."

Richard and Luke approached us now, bearing cups of punch. Sabine and Georgia, not to be left out, walked over too.

Richard handed me a cup of punch and looked at Kaer.

"Kaer, this is my roommate Sammy, her cousin, Richard, Luke, Sabine and Georgia."

"Good to meet you," Kaer said. "If you'll excuse me, I see my mother is speaking with Niranjana."

He walked away and my gaze followed him. His mother was a female copy of Kaer, brown curly hair that perfectly framed her face. Some Fae had cat irises, but not these. Their large soulful green eyes were full of spirit.

Kaer's mother was petite and shapely, in a calf-length, silky, light teal dress and matching teal slippers. I strained my vampire hearing to try to see what they were talking about.

Kaer's mother seemed agitated.

"I wonder what's going on," Sabine said, breaking my concentration.

"Shhh, I'm trying to hear what they're saying."

Before I could concentrate again, Kaer's mother disappeared. Then all of the faeries reduced to their tiny flying forms and did the same. Kaer turned to me, his face the picture of concern and he too, disappeared from sight.

The knee-high pixies were next to go.

"Nira, what's going on?"

Nira waved her hand causing the instruments to disappear.

"The Faeries have detected evil. This land is protected by me. That means I have to find out what the evil is, and how it has gotten through the protections."

"Did they say where?" Richard asked.

"Several areas spread along our perimeter. It's as if they're looking for a weak spot in the protections. I have to get back and see what I can do. Don't worry, but maybe you should stay close to the cottage for now."

Nira disappeared and the seven of us were suddenly alone.

Luke sat on a log next to the fire. "I don't feel like going back right now."

"Nira didn't say we had to," Morna said, as he too took a seat.

All the rest of us walked over and sat down.

"Who do you think it might be?" Georgia asked.

I looked around and no one seemed to have any answers.

"There are many in the underworld that draw power from others in order to support their magic," I said.

"Are you talking about Dark Elves?" Morna wondered.

"Yes, along with the wizards and vampires who aid them."

"Like you would know anything," Sabine scoffed, her voice dripped with sarcasm.

"She knows more than any of us. Especially you, Sabine."

Sabine's face flashed anger as she stared at Sammy. She wasn't used to being rebuked.

"So tell us all how you know of such things. Perhaps you're a scholar?"

Now I was feeling anger. As much as I knew I didn't need to defend myself, I wasn't about to let her or anyone else belittle me.

"I know, because I grew up in Althar," I pointed around the room. "Of all of you here, I'm the only one that has been really close to that level of evil. In fact I've seen things that would make a vulture wretch. I learned my magic from a dark wizard, not some teacher your parents hired for the purpose."

This was technically not true, because I had hidden, watched my aunts' lessons and then practiced on my own. Still, that was not something they needed to know.

"A dark wizard, next you'll be telling us you personally know demons as well."

"She does, the Demon Kings, Ceron and Cathos."

Sabine and Georgia snickered. "Demon Kings. Well," Sabine sneered, "you could tell us anything. How could we know?"

I bristled, working to a full rage. "I have no need to lie. And I don't care if you believe me or not. You're the one who was asking for an explanation. I only offered one."

"I agree that it could be Dark Elves," Morna added, ignoring Sabine. "My dark cousins have an insatiable need for power, and they glean it from any source they can find. A place like this would be very tempting indeed."

"Marcella, you mentioned that others help them. How do they do that?"

"Mostly it's by capturing and transporting beings, usually humans, into the underworld. They profit from them in several ways, depending on the victim."

Sammy cringed. "That doesn't sound good at all."

"It's not. To supply a steady stream of victims they use bounty hunters, trolls, vampires, and sometimes witches and wizards. A captured magical being would be very profitable to them."

"I don't want to talk about it. Nira will take care of everything."

"Why are you here, Sabine?" Luke asked now provoked to ask her the question that had been bothering all us.

"What do you mean? I'm here to complete my studies, because I'm a very gifted witch."

"You're here because your father insisted," Sammy challenged.

Sabine was fuming; she stood up.

"Are you coming, Georgia?"

"Not right now. See you later."

Sabine's eyes widened in shock, and then narrowed in anger. "Fine."

She whipped around and stomped off.

We all looked at Georgia.

"She'll get over it. I'd like to hear more about the underworld. That is, if you don't mind talking about it, Cella."

"I..."

"Maybe we should talk about something else. Cella is trying to forget Althar."

"It's all right. What do you want to know, Georgia?"

"These Demon Kings, do they rule the entire underworld?"

"No, only the upper kingdom of Althar. There are many layers of the underworld; the deeper the kingdom, the more evil the inhabitant and the greater the danger. The danger does not dissuade those seeking the underworld's untold riches. Many of the treasure seekers are captured and used by the dark forces as a renewal source for their power."

"Greed," Richard acknowledged.

"I've heard tales of a peaceful, beautiful, inner part of the earth that rivals this world. Do you know anything about that?" Luke asked.

"I've heard the stories too," Sammy added.

"I believe them to be true, but I don't have personal experience to tell you about."

"We should probably go back," Georgia said.

Sammy looked disappointed. "But the moon is just coming up. It's going to be a beautiful night. Come on, just a little longer?"

"Why not?" Richard said, and produced a tray of punch.

We each took a cup, and the mood shifted.

"Well Richard, tell us what you want to do with your skills once you finish your studies with Nira."

"I don't think we'll ever be finished learning."

He glanced in my direction and smiled.

"I couldn't agree more. We should always be learning. But I'm curious too, Richard. What do you want to accomplish with your magical skills?"

"I'd like to teach, maybe have my own school for talented youngsters."

"How about you, Luke?" I asked.

Luke hesitated, and we watched as he studied the fire for a moment. "I want to eliminate all those that sully the name of good witches and warlocks everywhere with their dark ceremonies and rituals."

Sammy's eyes widened. "You want to be a hunter?"

"Not in the sense you mean," he cautioned. "Hunters have killed many of my ancestors. Those hunters, mostly humans, couldn't tell bad magic from good, and chased a peaceful race into hiding."

"Unfortunately having to live in hiding is true for all our races," Morna added. "It's why the sanctuaries were formed. Of course, the Elvin Kingdoms have always been hidden."

"That's right, and vampires have always been hunted, I understand that. The undead, made vampire is completely different from our peaceful race, yet there is no difference in the hatred both receive." I sighed.

"We want to help Katrina and the Protectors," Sammy beamed.

Georgia laughed. "You? Help the Protectors?"

I could see how hurt Sammy was by her reaction. "Yes," I interjected, "in any way we can. I've already helped. Now I am going to work as hard as I can to perfect my skills, so that I can do even more."

"Good for you," Richard said.

"You haven't answered the question, Georgia. What are you going to do?"

"I don't know yet. I never thought further than having a family and keeping the magic part of my life a secret."

"I think you're wasting Nira's time then; both you and Sabine. This is just about being able to say you were trained by her, isn't it?" Luke scolded.

Georgia frowned and looked down at her hands. "I guess I was just tagging along with Sabine. But you're right; this is too good an opportunity for me to waste. I'll find out what I'm supposed to be doing with it, and from now on I'm going to take it more seriously."

"Good. That just leaves you Morna," Richard said.

"Elves are naturally gifted in magic. What is it that you wish to do?" I asked.

"The magic must be passed on. My race is dwindling. I fear that soon there won't be anyone to pass the magic on to."

### CHAPTER FOUR

"We should go now. It's getting late," Georgia said.

"I am kind of tired," Sammy admitted.

We all got up. Luke waved the fire out and we started back to the cottage. Once we got close enough, the blended, amazingly camouflaged cottage appeared, and the door magically opened.

"Good night everyone, see you tomorrow," I said, as we each shuffled off to our rooms.

Once we were changed and settled in our beds, Sammy turned to me. "Are you going to tell me about the Fae you were dancing with?"

"His name is Kaer; his mother was telling Nira about the evil on the borders."

"Then he is the Prince of this land! Remember, Nira said that the Queen had warned her."

"If you say so, I only met him today. That's all I know."

"He seemed to be very interested in you. Not surprising; since everyone seems interested in you."

"What are you talking about?"

"Well, Richard sure is going out of his way to be nice to you."

"He's nice to all of us. And Richard is not everyone. Now can we go to sleep?"

"I guess. Boy, Sabine sure was mad when she left. With any luck she'll go home. I bet Georgia is getting the silent treatment right now."

"Lucky her."

Sammy snickered. "Good night, Cella."

"Good night, Sammy."

It wasn't long before Sammy was both sleeping soundly and snoring loudly. There was no way I was going to get to sleep now. Then I heard something hit the window. I got up, tip-toed over and peeked outside.

Kaer was there outside, floating at my window..

"Come outside," he whispered. "I'll take you to see the gathering."

I glanced over to Sammy; she hadn't stirred.

"All right, give me a second."

I closed my eyes and in an instant I was changed. Kaer reached in for me and together we floated free of my room.

He pulled me close. "Come, the gathering has begun," he whispered.

"What's the gathering?"

He smiled. "You'll see."

Kaer wrapped his arm around my waist and we shot off speeding effortlessly through the forest, around trees silhouetted by the full moon and up into the night sky. It was breathtakingly beautiful.

As we approached a clearing in the forest, I recognized it as the glen with the small waterfall and as Kaer touched us lightly to the ground, faeries of all kinds were fluttering in anticipation.

Soon it became clear what everyone was waiting for. Unicorns appeared from every area of the forest and were gathering in the center of the glen. Their white coats shimmered in the moonlight as they walked. They seemed to be forming a circle around one of them. Twelve unicorns in all, flank to flank, facing out in a tight, protective circle.

"The chosen female for this year is going to give birth tonight. She will not have another. Selky, the male you met this morning was born ten years ago tonight," Kaer whispered. His sweet breath on my face made me tingle. It felt good to be pulled close to him and I felt privileged to have been invited to witness this event.

It was over an hour before we saw any further movement in the group. They began tossing their heads and low whinnies could be heard. Then, with no visible signal, they marched forward and turned towards the middle, stamping their feet, seemingly in nervous excitement.

Kaer moved us slightly closer and overhead, so that we could take a quick peek. The mother was up, and nuzzling the fluff of white at her feet. Using my enhanced vision, I could see just the tiniest of nubs on its forehead.

The twelve others continued stomping and tossing their heads as the foal tried to stand for the first time. After several tries, success! We watched as the newest member of the enchanted herd nursed for the very first time.

A tear slipped down my cheek as I witnessed the amazing sight.

We lingered a moment longer, before Kaer carried me to the small pool where we'd first met and gently set me down.

"Thank you for including me."

"You're welcome." Kaer wiped a tear away from my cheek with his thumb and smiled. "It moved you."

I nodded. "Yes, very much. They're so special."

I felt a little uncomfortable, so I walked over to the pool and sat down on the rocks, just as I had done earlier.

"I'm sorry your celebration tonight was cut short. Mother is very worried."

"I don't blame her. I've seen the kind of evil that stalks this land."

"Don't worry, we are safe here. I'd never let anything happen to you, Marcella."

I glanced up at Kaer. "You don't even know me, Kaer. Besides, I wouldn't let anything happen to you either."

He smiled and sat down next to me. "You say I don't know you, yet I felt you. And even before I saw you, I knew you."

He didn't look at me; he was just looking up at the moon.

Just as I was about to speak, he stood and held out his hand to help me up.

"Something has happened. We have to go back."

He scooped me up again and in no time at all we were back at the cottage. The students had gathered in our room.

Sammy stood with her hands on her hips. Richard sat on the floor by her bed. "Where were you? After what's happened, I was scared when I woke up and you were gone."

"I was at the gathering, with Kaer. What do you mean? What's happened?"

"Nira told you Cella was all right, Sammy. Don't be over dramatic," Richard said and then went on to answer my question. "It's Sabine; she never came back and Nira thinks she was taken by a hunter from the underworld."

"Where is Nira now?"

"Calling for help, I think."

"She's going to send us home, I just know it," Sammy whined.

"If they wait for help to come before starting the search, they will never find her."

"You know the underworld, Marcella. Can you lead us in a search for Sabine? We'll go with you and help you try to get her back."

"What? No, it's too dangerous. I wish my brother Cain was available, but he and Damien are already doing something important. I'm sure Nira is already talking to Ceron or Cathos."

"I heard her earlier say that she was unable to contact them. And Nira can't go herself. It's too dangerous for her in the underworld."

"See Cella, you're Sabine's only hope," Georgia pleaded.

I had to make a decision quickly, but the thought of going back to the underworld for any reason frighten me.

"Do we have any idea where she was when she was taken? Maybe she just went home," Richard asked.

"No one has seen, or heard from her since she left the group a few hours ago."

I turned and started back down to the lake. I hadn't seen anything earlier, but then I hadn't been looking either. Everyone was following along behind me.

"Range out with your senses to find anything that might help us find out who did this. It will make all the difference if we find out what kind of being it was."

Kaer frowned as he thought. "I'll be right back and I'll bring a friend. Everyone has to leave but Marcella, or my friend won't come."

"But all of us want to help."

"You have to trust me," Kaer admonished, "my friend will find the spot."

"We'll all look until you get back," Richard decided.

Kaer scowled. "You are all visitors in my kingdom, remember that."

He disappeared and I continued down the path. I didn't smell anything strange. That eliminated trolls.

"Sabine was angry; she was probably was too preoccupied to know she was in danger. Oh, I should have gone with her." Georgia sniffed. "I feel terrible now,"

"Georgia, if you had been with her, we would be searching for you too." I cried in frustration. "I don't see, or sense anything. The rest of you might as well go back. Hopefully Kaer's friend will find something."

"There he is. Don't do anything without telling us, Cella,. We don't want to make this worse by losing you too," Richard warned.

"We don't have much time. I'll see you all later."

As my new friends receded into the darkness, I could see Kaer watching them very closely. He didn't come closer until he was sure they were inside the cottage.

As Kaer came toward me, trotting behind him was Selky, the young male unicorn I had seen earlier.

"Selky, you remember Marcella, don't you? I need you to find the scent. We have no time to waste."

Selky tossed his head as he walked to me.

"It's all right," Kaer assured, "you can touch him."

I stroked his face. It was so soft. His hair felt even finer than my own. "Thanks for helping, Selky."

He tossed his head once more and then started the task at hand. Kaer and I watched as he veered from the path and began to paw at the base of a large willow.

"This is a bad sign," Kaer said, as he knelt down and inspected the area. He picked something up and handed it to me.

"Sabine's earring. What does this mean Kaer?"

"It means one of our own has betrayed us. Fae use the trees to move about unseen. Special large trees, such as this willow, lead to other worlds."

"You mean they use the trees like we use the portals?"

Kaer nodded. "Not exactly, but the trees represent our way to and from this world. Only a Fae of this forest would know the specific magic needed to access this gate."

"Why would they do that?"

He shrugged. Kaer was clearly shaken by this revelation, but I had no time to dwell on it.

"So, are you saying that a Fae took Sabine, or did a Fae let someone in that took her?"

"Does it matter? They're gone."

"I need access to this gate to find her."

"You can't do this alone."

"Listen, you can tell the others where I've gone and how I went through the tree."

"I'll go with you."

"I don't think that's a good idea. If something happens..."

Suddenly Selky's head shot up, his nostrils flared and he bolted away.

I instinctively reached for my sword, and then I remembered that we weren't allowed to bring weapons into Nira's realm.

"Richard, you startled us." I sighed in relief.

"You found something? I felt you were going to try to do this on your own and I can't let you."

I handed Richard the earring.

"They're using the willow trees."

"Use the magic, Kaer. We have to hurry.

### CHAPTER FIVE

Kaer disappeared momentarily and an opening in the tree appeared. I used my vampire vision and Richard followed behind me as we stepped closer. But before I could enter the opening, Kaer appeared next to me.

"Each tree leads to a specific place. It will be a difficult thing to find your way back to this spot."

"I know my way around Althar."

"Willow, let them follow those that came before," Kaer respectfully asked the tree.

I covered my outfit with a brown hooded robe, Richard did the same. Magically created steps formed inside the large tree. I took a deep breath, and started down.

Kaer reached out and stopped me, squeezing my hand.

"Be safe. Come back to me."

I didn't know what to say to that, so I just nodded. He reluctantly pulled back. Richard gave him a nod and we started our journey into the underworld.

The stairway was suffocatingly close as we spiraled ever downward. Using magic, Richard held a glow close to him, but even with vampire sight, I couldn't see very far ahead of us.

After several hours of continuous decent, the orange glow of the underworld began seeping up the stairs to meet us. My stomach turned as the stench of Althar hit my sensitive nostrils. The smell transported me back to my childhood, where rats had become my first playmates, and Cain my only salvation.

My fingers pulled into tight firsts, my nails dug into my palms. This was not a fate I would wish on anyone. Most of those living in this realm gave in to its lure. Cain had always told me that the goodness of my heart had kept us both from succumbing to the evil here.

Though I grew up in Althar, I'd never thought of it as Home. I'd never had a real home until Damien changed that for me.

As the stairway ended, we came into a forest of roots. This had to be in the western part of Althar.

"This is Dark Lord Drakar's territory."

"You've been here before?" Richard asked, as we walked. His face was pinched, his sense of smell offended by the stench of the sulfur in the air, and lack of fresh airflow.

"Unfortunately, yes, I have. A bounty hunter coming here with a prize like Sabine would go directly to his compound."

"Is it like this everywhere?"

"If you're talking about the roots; no. If you're talking about the smell and the light; yes. But you get used to the smell. The underworld is as diverse as upper earth. There are wide, open spaces, underground rivers, caverns, and mountain ranges. And only the very lower levels are hot."

"So, do you have any idea how we will get Sabine away from a Dark Lord?"

"None. Because if she is turned over to the Dark Lord I fear that she is lost forever. Instead, I'm hoping we can catch the bounty hunter before he gets to Drakar's compound and has a chance to complete the transaction and turn her over. And I think I know how we can pick up some time."

As we left the root forest, I chose the path that veered to the right.

"How do you know he didn't go this way too?"

"Because no one in their right mind would go this way; especially with a precious cargo."

"That's sounds ominous. Are you going to tell me why?"

"Because it's where the serpent nesting grounds are."

"Why would you want to take that path? How is it going to save us time?"

"Because I know something others don't."

"What's that?"

"That the serpents only nest once every three years, and they were nesting just after I escaped. Cain found that out the hard way."

Richard shook his head as he stepped beside me. "I can't believe that you spent most of your life here and you survived."

"That's all I did - survive. It did scar me. But I never take anything for granted now. Like fresh air, blue sky, family."

"Friends?"

We both smiled and then we heard hissing and saw movement just ahead.

"I thought they weren't nesting."

"That doesn't mean there aren't serpents here. Just stay close."

We had reached a point in the tunnel were it widened into an open space. Through the red glow we saw openings in the cave walls and a craggy outcropping ahead, which the path curved around.

I started to hum. I had befriended a serpent charmer who happened to have been enslaved by my aunt. He used to capture young serpents and make his money entertaining travelers with them. When they got too large he would sell them off or just let them go. The stories he told and techniques he used fascinated me.

I loudly continued to hum a tune that I'd learned from the charmer and shortly four serpents rose up like cobras and begun to sway back and forth, their tongues tasting the air around them, the small wings on their backs fluttering slightly.

They turned and watched us as we passed, but didn't come closer. I could feel Richard's apprehension as we continued along. Suddenly one of the serpents snapped his jaws and dropped his head, flicking his tongue only inches from Richard's face.

I moved with vampire speed between the large beast and Richard, swaying and humming until the serpent calmed, matching my movements with his own.

I pushed Richard back with one hand. The golden male raised his head and watched again as we put some distance between us. Finally the trail began to rise and with relief we exited the nesting grounds; but not alone.

"He's following us," Richard whispered. "I think he's enamored of you."

"Wonderful. Just ignore him. Maybe he'll get bored."

Richard turned and looked back again. "He's kind of cute."

I chuckled. "Maybe it's you he's enamored of."

"Maybe. Now what?"

"We shaved off at least three hours going this way, but we'll keep going until we reach the entrance to the next canyon. We'll find somewhere to hide and wait there.

The golden serpent followed us the entire way, but when we stopped, he disappeared into the canyon.

"Too bad, I'm going to miss him."

We found a place, while successfully hiding us from those on the trail, would allow us to see anyone coming this way.

I took out a Crimson tablet and let it dissolve on my tongue.

"I forgot you were a vampire."

I shrugged. "We are who we are. There's no hiding from it. Besides, I love being a vampire."

"You like the hunt?"

"I've never hunted." I looked over at Richard now. He had the most beautiful copper colored eyes. The long lashes combined with the gentle curve of his eyebrows framed them perfectly. He seemed to be studying me too. "It isn't about that for most of us. I love the way I feel; strong, fast. I see better, hear better, scent easier."

"It's wonderful how you've embraced who you are. I get so tired of hiding who I am, what I am. All the magical races should be revered, honored; not feared and hunted."

"I wish it was that way too. For me, being able to be in the upper world is enough. Someone's coming," I cautioned.

"My father will pay you." We heard Sabine say. "He'll pay you more than anyone down here ever could."

Surprisingly, she wasn't pleading with him, but making a statement.

"I'm going to sell you to Drakar, along with information on how to enter the Fae kingdom. I will be well paid. Then I will contact your father."

"I was wrong to trust Drakar."

Sabine attacked her captor with a burst of power. He struck her face hard with the back of his hand, knocking her to the ground.

Her captor strode to the now prone Sabine and as he reached down, Richard sprang to her defense, casting bolts of power at him.

I whipped around to his other side, ripping his legs out from under him with a another burst of energy. He hit the ground with a loud thud.

"What are you two doing here?" Sabine asked breathlessly.

"We came to save you. But now we're not sure you want saving."

"Of course I did, do," she stammered.

I saw Sabine's eyes widen and before I could react, her captor had a knife to my throat.

"Don't move or your friend will pay with her life. All of you will come with me. Now!" he demanded.

We heard a loud screech; the man behind me yelled and then was gone. I spun around to see him dangling from the golden serpent's jaws. The serpent shook him twice before flying off with his lifeless prize.

"Let's get out of here. Do you know a safe way to get back, Sabine?" Richard asked.

"How would I know something like that?"

"We heard you talking, Sabine. And unless your chains are invisible you are not bound like a captive."

"You don't know anything. No one would believe you anyway."

"I don't care about your little drama, whatever it was. But you risked everyone's safety."

"Like I just said; I don't know what you're talking about. Can we get out of here now? Perhaps the Dark Lord will grant us passage."

"Cathos can you hear me?"

"Marcella, why are you in Althar?"

"I came to rescue a schoolmate. Can you send me back to Niranjana's?"

"No, but I can send you back to Mormont. From there you can do as you wish."

"Thank you, Cathos. Tell Cain and Damien I'm all right and that I love them both."

"I will. I see three of you. Gather close."

"What's the matter with her?"

"I was just speaking with a friend." I grasped each of their hands tightly, and Cathos transferred us to my favorite place on earth; Mormont Castle.

Elite Guard escorted us from the portal room.

"You'll have to see Allwain before you can go any further. I need to speak to Katrina," I informed Richard and Sabine.

The Guard took them one way, and I set about locating Katrina. I knew there would be two places where she was likely to be; either the stables or the training ground.

Katrina looked up as I approached. Her extreme scenting ability picked me up long before she could see me.

"Marcella, what's wrong? Why aren't you at Nira's?"

"Something happened. One of my schoolmates was taken to Althar. I took a warlock with me and we got her back. Cathos couldn't send us back to Nira's, so I had him send us here. The Guard took my friends to Allwain, they're in the lab with him now."

"Well, I'm glad you're all right. What are you going to do now?"

"I'd like to stay until tomorrow and then go back."

Katrina came over and gave me a hug. "Why do I get the feeling you're not telling me everything?"

"I don't know everything, Katrina." I smiled at my joke.

"Well, call me if you need me. I'm going to be going back to America soon. You're always welcome here or there."

"I do love both places. Thank you, Katrina."

"I love them too. Now, why don't we go and see Allwain. I'd like to meet your friends."

We laced our arms around each other's waists and walked across the compound to where Allwain had his laboratory.

As we reached the lab, the door swung opened on its own and we heard "Katrina's here" from Allwain's large Myna bird, and we walked inside.

"Good morning, Allwain. How are the new arrivals?"

"Ah, Katrina, Marcella. They seem just fine. I've given them the protection serum and contacted their parents."

"My father will be here soon," Sabine informed us.

"Sabine, Richard, this is Katrina, Leader of the Five."

"It's an honor to meet you," Richard said formally.

"Yes, nice to meet you," Sabine added.

"Welcome to my home. You will have access to the castle, but you must stay inside its walls for now. Tomorrow you will be going back to Niranjana's. Marcella will show you to the guest quarters, where you will find a change of clothing and I'll see at dinner."

I gave Katrina a quick hug and then she left.

"She's amazing," Richard said.

"Come on, I'll show you around."

"Can we get something to eat too?"

"Of course. I'm sure Klaus has something ready; he always does," Allwain said. "Vampires have voracious appetites. It's because their bodies are in a constant state of renewal. Every cell of their bodies is replaced several times a week; it's the source of their extreme longevity."

"Can we skip the vampire teachings? I'm really hungry and tired."

"Sabine, really." Richard turned to us "I apologize for her rudeness."

"No need. You need only be responsible for yourself."

I led them out and the short distance to the kitchens.

"You really are an ungrateful witch, you know that Sabine?" Richard hissed.

"No one asked you to come after me."

"You're right; you and the underworld are a perfect match."

I smirked; Richard was right. Right now, I would have rather brought the golden serpent back instead of Sabine.

"Klaus, can we still get some breakfast?"

"Marcella! It's so good to see you."

The robust, bearded bear of a man came over and gave me a big hug.

"Good to see you too. These are my schoolmates, Richard and Sabine. We're..."

"Starving?" he chortled. "Well have a seat. Katrina and the others were up early as usual, but everyone else just finished."

Sabine started to say something, but Richard interjected.

"Thank you so much. Anything you have would be wonderful. Both Sabine and I appreciate it very much that Mormont has been so welcoming."

He pulled Sabine towards the table and I followed and sat down.

"Don't you dare complain about anything," I heard him whisper menacingly.

"Or what, Richard? Are you going to spank me?"

"Actually, that's just what you need. You're a spoiled brat."

"Like I really care what you think."

"How about what I think, Sabine?"

"Father!"

"Come with me, we're going home."

"No, I want to go back to Nira's and finish my studies."

"Not this time. They, obviously, are not able to protect you."

"We got her back safe and sound, Sir," Richard interjected.

"Yes, you did, and for that I thank you, Richard."

"It really was thanks to Marcella. Without her, we never would have found your daughter in time. The bounty hunter would have delivered her to the Dark Lord Drakar."

"Then I am in your debt, young lady. I thank you. Now, let's go, Sabine."

"Father, please at least sit down and have breakfast."

Klaus brought us plates and utensils and then presented us with bowls and platters of food, a pitcher of cider and plate of freshly baked strudel.

Sabine's father reluctantly joined us. "Your mother is very upset. After you are home for a few days, we'll discuss whether or not you'll be going back. I'll need assurances from Niranjana that this won't happen again. Now, will one of you tell me what happened?"

"Yes Sabine, why don't you tell your father exactly what happened?" Richard dared.

Sabine shot him an angry look. "I was just walking back to the cottage when someone came up behind me. I must have fainted, because I don't remember much more until these two appeared, used magic and some kind of a beast to free me."

"That's it? Nothing more? You'd never seen this bounty hunter before?"

"Of course not."

I could tell Sabine was lying, but I had nothing to gain by contradicting her. I was happy just to indulge in some of Klaus' strudel.

"We'll talk more about this when we get home."

After breakfast, Sabine and her father did indeed go home, leaving Richard and I on our own. I showed him around and then we went to the training ground, so that he could watch the Five as they went through another training session.

I watched his face as Katrina and the rest of the Five went from training speed to full vampire speed for the rest of the workout. He was mesmerized by what he saw. He glanced over to me and smiled.

After they finished, we walked over so I could introduce him.

"May I introduce Richard, a schoolmate of mine at Nira's. Richard this is El, Rosa, Letta, Kate and you already met Katrina."

"Nice to meet you, Richard," Letta said, speaking for the group.

"I hear you had quite an adventure."

"Yes, Marcella really saved the day."

"Where's your other friend?" Katrina wondered.

"Her father arrived and he's taken her home already."

Katrina smiled. "Good. What are you two up to this afternoon?"

"I was thinking if Allwain or Tao had time, we could have some lessons here."

"I'm sure he'll make time for you. Well, if you'll excuse us, we need to get cleaned up."

We watched them walk away, chatting and laughing with each other like they always did.

"Gorgeous, aren't they?" I was proud of them.

"Yes they are. It runs in your family I guess."

I felt my cheeks heat. "Maybe we should get cleaned up too. It has been a long night."

"I wasn't tired until you said that."

"Come on, the guest wing is this way."

"I love this place. Not only because it's beautiful. But it just feels so good, you know?"

"Yes, I know. Here we are. I'm sure you'll find everything you need inside. If not, I'll be just down the hall."

I washed up and took a nice long nap.

Now as I splashed my face with water and then dissolved a Crimson tablet under my tongue, I felt refreshed.

I walked outside and over to the stone balcony that overlooked the courtyard of the guest wing.

"Your friend is still sleeping."

I jerked around to see Kaer standing a few feet away.

"I didn't mean to frighten you. Nira gave me permission, since you are her student, to come to check on you. I was worried when you didn't return."

"I'm fine, you just startled me."

"You are coming back, aren't you?"

"Yes, I just wanted to rest here for a day."

"I've never been away from my kingdom before. This is so different than living in the forest."

"It suits you though; a castle, I mean."

"I want to go up there," Kaer said, pointing to the tallest turret.

"One of my favorite spots as well. Let's go."

"Did you find out who opened the willow tree?"

Kaer frowned. "No one would admit to it. We have changed the magic so that only Mother or I can open the tree gates, but now we've made it dangerous for anyone that needs them in an emergency. Hopefully once we've been successful finding the Fae that revealed their magic, with some added protections, we'll be able to allow them be used once again, by all Fae."

"Nira could help. She could make a truth potion."

Kaer shook his head. "Outsiders, no matter how well-meaning, are not allowed to interfere. It's one of the many conditions laid out in order for us to live together."

"But she wouldn't have to give it herself. In fact we could make you one here. You could give it to them in the water without anyone knowing. It's your choice as Prince."

"Let me think about it."

"It's a long way up," I said, as we reached the base of the tower.

Kaer smiled. "Not for me."

He stepped closer, grasping me around the waist with his right arm. We floated effortlessly around the stone spiral staircase until we reached the top.

Then looking deeply into my eyes, gently setting me down, he reluctantly stepped away. We moved to the edge and looked out onto the magnificent countryside.

"It so clear today, you can see miles of Von Dracek land in every direction."

"I don't have words."

Silently we stood together and took in the beauty before us.

"Did the willow take you where you thought it would?" he asked.

"Yes, to the Western lands of Althar. It was hard for me to be back there again, after living here for so many months."

He turned towards me. "But you did it anyway. You didn't have to, but you did, and you achieved your goal. If the stories of Katrina are true, you are a lot like her."

"That's the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. If I could be even a little like her, or any of the Five, I would be very proud."

"Then be proud."

Kaer smiled and took my hand. We looked out into the landscape again, watching an eagle snatch a fish from the lake below.

"Can you stay for dinner? With her Father in America, Katrina will be hosting."

"Thank you, I would love to join you."

"Richard must be awake by now, he'll be wondering about me."

"Let him."

### CHAPTER SIX

"We really have to go. I told Richard we would ask Allwain to give us a lesson."

"If you insist."

Kaer scooped me up again, and we floated down.

"That's a great way to travel, Kaer, thank you."

We walked through the garden on the way back to the guest wing and came across Richard in the courtyard.

"There you are. Kaer, what are you doing here?"

"I came to make sure you were both all right and to see when you were coming back to Niranjana's."

"Well, thanks to Marcella, we're all fine. Sabine is safe and at home with her family. I don't know if she'll be coming back to Nira's or not."

"I have to say, that although I am very glad that she is safe, I hope she stays home."

Richard and I both snickered. "We do too."

"Shall we go and see if Allwain has some time for us?"

When we arrived at Allwain's laboratory, we found Tao working alone.

"Marcella, Allwain said you were here. How may I serve you?"

"Tao, this is Richard and Kaer. We were hoping to have a lesson. Perhaps you have time to work with us?"

"Allwain was called away, but he left instructions for me to develop an advanced invisibility potion. Would you like to help me?"

We all excitedly nodded. "Of course. What do you want us to do?"

Tao handed us a list. "Gather these from the back room and then we will begin."

We took the list and searched the shelves and boxes for all of the items Tao had requested.

"We found everything."

"Good. Now we can begin. Potion making is an exacting science, requiring strict adherence to set quantities."

"That's what Klaus told me about baking."

We weighed, measured and when we were ready, blended the ingredients carefully to the mixture one by one, and then watched as Tao created a magical heat source to cook our concoction.

"Now we wait. Once it dries, someone will have to test it. The first formulation was effective but didn't last long enough. This one will render the taker invisible for as long needed. An antidote will be necessary in order to become visible again. We will make that next."

So we began again; finding ingredients, mixing and cooking.

"Good work, all of you. It will take several hours for the compound to dry. If you want to test it, come back later."

"Sounds fun. Thank you, Tao."

"I don't know why you would go to Nira when you had the Lord of the Wizards and Tao to teach you," Richard wondered, as we walked to the library.

"It's a different kind of magic. I want to learn both. Allwain has been teaching me for almost a year, but he is very busy creating protections and otherwise helping the Five that he didn't have much time for me lately. So when Nira said she would take me on as a student it seemed perfect."

We entered the library and I smiled at Kaer and Richard's reaction. Their mouths dropped open as they surveyed the beautiful, hand-painted fresco on the ceiling of the magnificent room. I closed my eyes letting the rich sensual scents of the leather invade my nostrils.

"This is...just amazing," Richard said after a few minutes.

"Isn't it? I just love it. Of course everyone that comes here thinks the same thing. Most of the contents will be moved to America soon, but for now it's my favorite place here at Mormont."

"It's beautiful, but seeing the landscape from the turret is still my favorite."

Kaer looked at me and smiled. I smiled back. Richard didn't seem to notice, or he was just ignoring the comment.

I sat down at one of the tables, so the others joined me.

"Being royal has its advantages, doesn't it?" Richard marveled.

"Yes, but being granted titles and the lands that go with them took many battles. Baron Von Dracek has titles granted to him from many countries, by Kings and several Popes. He's protected these lands for many generations."

My statement didn't seem to surprise Kaer, Richard however looked very shocked.

"Popes? The Catholic church and vampires?"

"You sound like a human."

"Sorry, that was insensitive."

"Maybe you should spend as much time learning about the history of the peaceful races as you do on your magic."

Richard scowled. "You're probably right."

"Katrina said they would join us for dinner. They like to eat early, because they usually work out again before they go to bed. So we should probably go."

"Looking forward to it, lead the way." Richard rubbed his hands together.

Kaer looked a little apprehensive, so I lightly held his elbow.

"You'll like them Kaer. I wish my brothers were here too."

My touch seemed to relax him, and by the time we entered the dining room, we were laughing about the serpent we'd met in Althar. Kaer seemed to think it was very funny.

"Actually, it was kind of scary at the time," I insisted, but then started to giggle. "He was quite attached to Richard."

"The bounty hunter wasn't amused. I almost feel bad now. I mean, he did get killed."

"Served him right," Kaer said. "He invaded our world."

Everyone was already in the dining room, milling around with their drinks. I introduced my friends to everyone and then we had a very lovely dinner.

Once everyone was finished with dessert, Katrina pulled me aside.

"Your friends seem very nice."

"They are, Katrina."

"Both of them seem to like you very much. Do you have a preference?"

I tried to look shocked by her statement, but she smiled, and I blushed.

"No, I have studies. I can't be interested in boys."

"We're always interested, whether we have time or not."

"Well, I am going to be sixteen next week."

"That's true. So, you're going back to Nira's tomorrow? Maybe we will come to Nira's to help you celebrate your birthday."

"Oh would you, Katrina? That would be so wonderful."

"Of course, Marcella. I wouldn't miss it. I wish Damien and Cain were able to come, but they have something they need to do."

"I know, they told me. I miss them."

"Marcella, I don't want you being so impulsive. You could have gotten in a lot of trouble in Althar."

"Isn't that what Damien is always telling you, not to be so impulsive?"

Katrina chuckled. "Yes, and I hardly ever listen. Just be careful. You haven't finished your training yet, after all."

I gave her a hug, I was so grateful to have her in my life.

"We're going hunting after we work out. I'll see you tomorrow before you go back."

"All right."

"You did a great job today. I'm proud of you, we all are."

"The minute I met you, I wanted to be just like you."

"I'm flattered you'd like to pattern yourself after me, but Marcella, you're better off being the best you that you can be. That's always been enough and it always will be enough."

After she left, Kaer joined me out on the balcony.

"I have to go back. I'll see you tomorrow."

I was shocked by his abruptness. "Has something happened?"

"There have been more breaches in the protections."

"You can speak with your mother using you mind, can't you?"

Kaer nodded. "All Fae can connect if they wish."

"I can do that too. It runs in my family."

"Are you saying we may be able to speak to each other that way?"

"I guess so. It'll be nice."

We laughed, it would be nice.

"What's so funny?" Richard asked as he joined us.

"Nothing, Kaer has to go home now. I was just saying goodbye. There have been more breaches in the protections."

"I'm sorry to hear that."

"See you tomorrow, Kaer."

Richard and I walked him to the library, where the portal was, and after he left, we walked over to Allwain's laboratory.

"Tao?"

Tao came out of the back room. "I'm sorry, the potions still aren't ready."

"That's all right. Tao, since Allwain isn't here, I need to ask you something."

"Of course, what is it?"

"Kaer went home; there have been more breaches in the protections. Can you come with us and help strengthen what they have?"

"I'd have to be asked by Queen Nur or by Nira herself."

I was crestfallen; every time I tried to help, a rule, custom or something else blocked the way. Tao, seeing my distress, commented, "You really shouldn't worry. Niranjana will be able to handle any challenge that arises. In all her years there, she has faced much worse circumstances, I assure you."

"I'm sure you're right, it's just that I have such a bad feeling about all of this. I swear there was some kind of relationship between Sabine and that bounty hunter. Now I can't shake the feeling that something terrible is about to happen."

"I'll come if I'm needed. Maybe you shouldn't go back right now."

"No, I want to go. I need to," I insisted, looking to Richard for support.

"In fact I think we should go tonight instead of waiting until morning," he added.

"If you think that's what you need to do, why don't you go into the storeroom and see if there is anything there that you might need. Allwain always says 'be prepared for anything'."

"Great idea, thank you, Tao."

He bowed slightly. The formality of elves was so endearing.

Richard followed me into the back room and we looked through the inventory list that Tao meticulously kept. He cataloged everything by name and use, along with where it was kept.

"Get me one of the leather bags, so we can start filling it."

I found the truth serum, and the scrolls containing protection incantations, both for persons, and property.

"Anything catching your eye?" Richard asked.

"I haven't gotten very far yet. This is an unbelievable list. Allwain insists on having anything he could possibly need. Unfortunately, he's needed many of them. Now he is teaching others to do what he does for us."

"It's true then, there will be clans of peaceful vampires in America?"

"Yes, and all peaceful races will be welcome as well. Several sites have already been chosen by the Five."

"I'd love to go. Are you going?"

"I've already been there. It's beautiful and I'd be happy to make my home there, but I need to be wherever my family is."

"Tell me something, Marcella." He continued, "How long have you known Kaer?"

"We just met, why?"

"Really, because he seems to be very protective of you, for someone you just met."

I smiled. "I know, I thought the same thing."

Richard looked up from the list. "I mean it's not like anything could ever come of it; Kaer being a Fae prince and all."

"What do you mean? Not that I would even consider it."

"He has to marry another Fae, continue his bloodline, you know."

"Oh, of course. Like I said, we just met. He'll be a good friend though, I can feel that."

"Not that I am against a match between magical races. But any match will have its challenges."

"I don't even know why we are talking about such things. Is there anything else listed that you think we might need?"

We worked in silence for a few minutes before I brought up the subject that had been on my mind.

"That bounty hunter could have been one of many. The kingdom of Tazerae is full of magical beings and creatures. Taking a unicorn would be disastrous."

"Didn't you say something about there being a gathering?"

"Yes...a new unicorn was born. Do you think that's what they are were really after? The newborn unicorn stallion? I think you need to talk to Sabine."

"Me? Why me?"

"Richard, you can't be serious. I only saw you and Sabine together a few times, and even I could tell how much she wanted you to be interested in her."

He sighed. "What exactly do you want me to find out?"

"The real story. Did she already know that bounty hunter, like we suspect, and what did she have to tell Drakar?"

Richard held up a small vial. "I have a secret weapon. I'll leave right away and be back at Nira's as soon as I can."

We gathered our things and walked out together.

"Did you find everything that you need?"

"I think so. Thank you, Tao. Here's a list of what we've taken."

When we got to the portal room, Richard seemed nervous.

"Just be your usual charming self; she'll be happy to fall into your arms."

"I was hoping that's how you would feel."

"Richard, I..."

"You don't have to say anything. I'll see you soon."

The portal flashed as it took him to Sabine's, and I returned to Nira's. The cottage was dark and as I made my way up to my room, I noticed that instead of my usual pink aura, the color around me was orange. Maybe it was because I was so confused about what was going on.

"Sammy, wake up."

Sammy jerked awake, and sat up, rubbing her eyes. "Cella, oh thank goodness."

She threw off her covers and rushed over, wrapping her arms around me and squeezing.

"I was so scared you wouldn't come back. Nira told us that you were all right, and to stay inside; we haven't seen her since. What's going on?"

I pushed away. "I don't know for sure. We found Sabine and brought her back to Mormont. Her father came and took her home. I have to go out. If I'm right, Sabine's captor wasn't alone."

"You can't go out by yourself."

"I'll be fine."

"No Cella, Nira said to stay inside."

"She told you to stay inside, I wasn't here. I have to find Kaer."

The door opened and Luke, Morna, and Georgia came in. "We overheard, and we are all going this time. All of us know enough to be able to help."

"That's right. Where's Richard anyway?"

"He went to see Sabine to make sure that she's all right."

I could see that the conversation was now making Georgia uncomfortable.

"Georgia if you know something, you need to tell us what it is. We don't have any time to waste."

Georgia looked down, and scuffed her slipper against the floor. "She said she had found a way out. She felt trapped by her life, but she didn't want to leave the wealth and luxury of it without some help."

"So she made a bargain with a Dark Lord?"

"I don't know what she did, she never told me. That's when I decided to start to distance myself from her. Niranjana is our High Priestess. I would never do anything to shame her, or put her in danger."

"You should have said something to Nira then."

"But I didn't know anything."

Sammy snapped her fingers and her outfit instantly changed. "We don't have time to argue with each other. If we're going to go, then let's go."

I knew the protections would prevent me from trying to contact Kaer from inside the cottage, so I waited until we were outside.

"Kaer?"

"Marcella! They're trying to take unicorns!"

"They want the baby, Kaer, I'm sure of it. We're coming to help."

"The Fae are trying to protect the unicorns, we have to hurry."

When we got to the glen, there were wounded Fae everywhere we looked. Nira, in the midst of a fight with a Dark Wizard, was hurling bolts of power against him and the four dark warriors that towered over the glen. The Fae, with their arrows were desperately trying to defend their land. They were being decimated by the powerful warriors, who were covered with armor and knocking them from the sky with shields and swords.

"Aim for their heads, use every power that you have. These warriors are conjured, you can't kill them, but you can blind them," I ordered.

I went to help Nira; knowing if we could defeat the Dark Wizard, the rest of warriors attacking us would cease to exist. The Wizard was covered head to toe in black robes and a headdress. Only the glow of his red eyes was visible. I threw a spear of power.

The spear bounced off, but he turned and shot energy bolts in my direction, giving Nira time to create a blow of power strong enough to knock him back. He flew across the glen and hit a large tree with enough force to crack it in half. The top tumbled to the ground, landing in front of him, pinning him momentarily to the tree.

With their wizard disabled, the conjured warriors stopped in mid step allowing my friends enough time to line up their attack. Luke and Morna used the time wisely, blinding each of them just as Sammy and Georgia wound energy ropes around their ankles and one by one, pulled them to the ground.

All I could do was join my power to Nira's, and hope it was enough. The wizard growled and started to push back our efforts.

Searing pain radiated up my arm and the next thing I knew I was flat on my back on the floor of the glen. I pushed myself up to see the continuing battle. I jumped to my feet, and stood with the others between the blinded warriors, who were now striking out and grasping at the air, in desperation.

"Everyone, use our power as one. It's our only hope." We took a deep breath and concentrated as hard as we could as one. "Now!"

We threw everything we had at the wizard. Our combined power pierced his protections and he screeched in pain, dropped his offense, giving Nira an opening to raise a final blow. She struck him with a raging fireball and he was enveloped in the conflagration. He began to scream and continued to scream and writhe in pain until he finally disintegrated with an explosion so strong the sudden release of energy knocked all of us down.

I don't know how long I was unconscious, but when I woke the glen was deathly quiet. I crawled to the side of each of my friends. I was relieved to see they were alive and beginning to stir.

I searched the landscape and noticed that Nira was tending to the Fae Queen.

"Katrina! Something has happened, we need El!" I called.

"We'll be right there, hold on!"

"Kaer?"

With no reply I flashed around the glen to see where he might be. The unicorns, including Selky, were in a circle facing out. I could feel their fear and tried to calm them.

"It's going to be all right, help is coming. I won't let them take him. I promise."

Selky stomped forward and neighed, pawing the ground.

"What is it, boy?"

I knelt down and inspected the ground. A white object caught my eye. I swept away the dirt around it and picked it up.

"A dragon tooth."

"Marcella, what happened?"

"Katrina." I rushed into her arms and began to sob.

"It was a wizard, he was so strong, and look," I said, handing her the dragon tooth.

"Where did you find this?"

"Right here, by the unicorns."

"This is what the dark elves and wizards use to manifest warriors."

"We had four here. When Nira destroyed the wizard, the warriors were destroyed too."

"But when he was destroyed, the dragon teeth he used should have been destroyed with them. These haven't been used yet. I better help El. Why don't you check the wounded and make them as comfortable as possible."

I searched for Kaer gain but couldn't locate him. I made my way to the injured and did what I could to ease their pain, and was relieved to find that El would be able to heal them all. Selky began to follow me as I walked towards the forest.

"Selky, can you find Kaer?"

Selky tossed his head and sniffed the air. He looked towards the forest and trotted that way.

I followed him through the thick forest, to a fern covered grotto where the dew covered foliage was now bathed in the first beams of daylight. Selky stopped and I heard rustling, grunts and groans.

I swept towards the sound and came upon a fight between two Fae. From forest to mid air, they chased each other, tackling, wrestling, dealing blows with their bare fists and with magic.

I wouldn't interfere, not unless I thought Kaer was in grave danger. I cringed every time they struck each other. Watching helplessly as they pushed each other through the trees, and up into the sky above me.

Finally Kaer's opponent broke from the fight and shot straight up into the air and I thought he would disappear, but Kaer shot after him and grabbed his leg. I saw the strain on Kaer's face as he used all his strength to slam his opponent to the ground.

I heard the crack his skull made as he landed among the rocks and watched as blood began to cover the ground. The salty, metallic scent hit my nostrils effecting me like nothing I'd ever experienced before. My fangs lengthened and saliva filled my mouth. The bloodlust coursing through my body now, was wild and like a painful torture.

I began to slowly step backwards. It was then that Kaer noticed me. I couldn't let him see me lusting for blood, I just couldn't. I turned away and quickly reached into my pocket, and pulled out the pouch I always kept close. I pulled the drawstrings open, patted two Crimson tablets onto my palm, and tossed them into my mouth.

As they dissolved, the bloodlust receded, and I calmed myself.

When I turned Kaer was kneeling next to the limp body of his adversary.

"He's dead."

"I'm sorry."

"I'm not. He was a traitor."

"I'm not sorry for him; I'm sorry that you had to do that."

### CHAPTER SEVEN

"Let's go back to the glen. Your mother needs you now." I urged.

To my surprise, Kaer wanted to walk. He laced his fingers through mine as we made our way the short distance.

It was a somber scene in the glen. Selky came to our side, escorting us to where Nira cradled the Queen.

Nira's looked up, her eyes telling the sad truth.

"Come close, my son," the Queen whispered, reaching weakly out for Kaer. He knelt next to her, and pulled her into his arms.

"You will take my place now. You will continue our legacy, of peace and strength, generosity of spirit, a love for our people, and all people of peace. Do not embrace your anger; let it go with the wind. I love you, Kaer. I go to join your father now. Be strong, my son, and remember who you are; let that always guide you."

Their gaze locked, Kaer leaned over, kissed his mother's cheek, and held her close until her last breath. Tears freely flowed down my face as witness the scene and I recalled the passing of my own mother. Though I had not been there, but hearing of it shocked me to the core. She was not a loving mother, by any means, but I had felt such pain at the loss, I could not imagine what Kaer must be feeling now.

Katrina stepped closer and put her arm around my waist, pulling me to her.

This was the evil that Katrina and the others had pledged to protect us from. It angered me now that the human race that hated and feared us so much, was ignorant to the danger around them kept at bay because of the Protectors. While other races suffered their losses with dignity, but praised their benefactors, the humans were oblivious to the sacrifices made on their behalf.

I felt like an intruder and began to back away to give them the privacy that they deserved.

"If you don't need me for anything, I need some time alone," I whispered to Katrina.

"I understand. I'm always here if you need to talk."

I nodded and backed away. I noticed Sammy and the others were watching from a distance, but the thought of talking about this with them made my stomach tense. With my gift of speed, I found myself at the small pool at the base of the waterfall. I sat down next to the water, wrapped my arms around my knees, pulled them to my chest and sobbed.

I must have been making so much noise that I didn't hear anything else. I felt a gentle nudge on my arm and looked up to see Selky standing next to me.

I reached out my hand slowly, to make sure it was all right to touch him. When he didn't move, I stroked the side of his beautiful face.

"Thank you, Selky."

He stepped closer and then lay down next to me. He let me stroke him; it seemed to comfort both of us.

After several minutes I noticed someone coming up the path.

"Marcella?"

"Richard, over here."

Selky got up and trotted away as he approached.

"I guess he doesn't think much of me."

"They're shy. Did you just get here?"

"Yes. I gave Sabine the truth serum without her knowing and asked her about everything. She was horrified that she couldn't stop herself from telling me the truth."

"And what is the truth?"

"Mind if I sit?"

"Not at all."

He sat down facing me. "It's terrible what happened tonight. I'm so relieved to see that you're all right."

"Tell me if it's going to get worse or better."

Richard sighed. "Sabine got a Fae to help her by saying they would be together in a better world. Of course she was going to betray him as well."

"Kaer killed him tonight."

Richard looked shocked. I wasn't sure if it was the iciness of my statement, or the fact the Kaer had taken a life.

"What it comes down to, is that Sabine was seduced by the Dark Lord and his promises of extreme wealth and power, if she did as he asked."

"I've heard that story, over and over. Usually it's humans that are duped by the promise. Sabine should have known better."

"She's young and spoiled."

"You're making excuses for her now?" I abruptly stood and looked down at him. "I just watched Kaer comfort his mother as she died. Being young and spoiled isn't an excuse for what she did. So many others were hurt and if she had succeeded, I shudder to think of the consequences. Tell me about the dragon teeth."

Richard stood surprised that I knew about them. He started to pace. "I'm not the enemy here. You were the one that asked me to question Sabine, and I did. Right before she disappeared again."

I shook my head. "Wait, what?"

"She's gone. She said she was going to be sick and left the room. She never came back. The Dark Lord must have come for her." He looked down at his feet, visibly upset. "Her parents are devastated."

"Finish telling me what she told you about the dragon teeth. I found one in the glen."

He put his hands on his hips. "I asked her what she had done to endanger the kingdom, she told me that beings would appear and capture the prize. She smiled and added that 'nothing could stop it'."

"She's been turned, we can't help her now."

"You would give up on her that easily?"

"She chose her path; believe me I've seen it many times before. Come on, we need to tell Nira and Katrina."

"I should have been here to help."

"You did help. You're the only reason we know as much as we do."

Nothing was said on the way back to the glen. The Queen's body had been taken away by Kaer and any Fae that were able to join the sad procession.

"Katrina, Nira. Richard questioned Sabine and I think there must be many dragon teeth still hidden here."

"That's not good news, but now that we know, I can make a spell and find them."

"Selky seemed to sense them too. Nira do you think the unicorn foal is what they want, or is it something else?"

"He is the most magical being of any world and will be until another is born. A male unicorn is only born every ten years. I've been here for a very long time and we've never had anything like this happen before."

"Drakar must be very desperate."

"Drakar, how is he involved?" Nira asked.

"That's where Sabine was going. She said he promised her wealth and power. She was very unhappy at home. Just after I questioned her, she disappeared. She's turned, Nira."

"That's such a shame; she really is talented. Now we may be fighting her one day. The mourning period for Queen Nur will be three days. You've actually had your first test and passed with flying colors, all of you. Without you, all may have been lost. And thanks to the Five, the Fae will survive and thrive again. Katrina, I'm going to need Allwain or Tao. I could do this myself, but it would take too long."

"Of course, I'll make sure they come right away."

She sighed, and shook her head. "I waited too long to ask. My pride will be the death of me one day."

Letta walked over and joined us. "El is really tired."

"I think a visit to Cathos is in order. He will be able to refresh and re-energize her and he should have some advice about the dragon teeth, and Drakar."

"Great idea, Katrina," Nira agreed.

Once they had gone, Allwain arrived to help with the protections. The rest of us were exhausted, and together headed back to the cottage.

We ate and then dragged ourselves up to bed.

Sammy and I washed up, changed into nightgowns and snuggled into our down covers.

"Marcella?"

"I thought you were going to call me Cella."

"It seems disrespectful somehow. Remember how you said that you wanted to be just like Katrina?"

"Yes," I said sleepily, my eyes closed.

"Well, you already are."

I opened my eyes, which welled with tears, and smiled. "Thank you, Samantha."

The End

Continue your reading enjoyment with the First Chapters of the First Book in the Royal Blood Chronicles Series - Katrina – The Beginning.

**Books by Elizabeth Loraine** :

**Royal Blood Chronicles Series**

 Katrina - the Beginning

 The Protectors

 The Dark Prince

 Cain – the Quest

 Bloodline

 Legacy

Redemption (June 2012)

**Royal Chronicles Short Stories**

 Quinn – a Watchers Story

 Marcella – Vampire Mage

**Phantom Lives Series**

 Collier

 Power

**Other Books**

 Lillian – A Vampire Tale

### Katrina

### The Beginning

### A Royal Blood Chronicle

### Book One

### By

### Elizabeth Loraine
This is a work of fiction. All the characters, organizations, and events portrayed in this novel are either products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously.

Royal Blood Chronicles Book One copyright © 2010 by Elizabeth Loraine all rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author.

ISBN 1453778187

First Edition August 2010

### We are named in every ancient culture.

### You speak of us in every written language.

### We have walked beside your ancestors,

### just as we walk beside you.

### What you don't know protects you.

### Those you fear will save you.

### CHAPTER ONE

****

**I sat very still, staring straight ahead. Sitting for a portrait for the Sanctuary's grand library was a great honor. My name is Katrina Von Dracek, and I can't believe how long it's been—almost one hundred thirty years. This is the chronicle of my journey, from the beginning.**

****

From this vantage point atop the castle's west wall, I could see the entire valley. The breeze was cool, but no longer held any threat of winter.

What would the rest of my life be like, I wondered. All young girls, I supposed, wanted love, but I also wanted adventure, to travel the world, to make a difference in some way. It would be a long life, I knew, for vampires live a very long time.

I appraised my surroundings. The night was breathtaking. With my vampire gifts, I detected a stag in the woods nearby and even though there was no moon tonight, my enhanced vision made the darkness as clear as the day.

From my history lessons, I learned the earliest known members of our race could not tolerate the sun in the beginning, or control their lust for blood. But just as all creatures have evolved through the centuries to survive, so had we, although some of the clans prefer, as they call it, to stay true to their heritage. Vampires are mostly born now, not made. Blood lust has been tamed by the hunting of animals and through the use of Crimson. Crimson is liquid strength for vampires, and is made from small amounts blood donated by our human watchers. It is mixed with an ancient elixir that vastly multiplies it by volume, and enables it to stay fresh indefinitely.

As I turned to leave, I saw a shadow, too fast to be human, streak across the field toward the front gate. Alarm trickled through me. I had been up on the wall for hours, and I had neither seen, nor heard anyone leave the castle.

"I have to find Quinn," I whispered into the darkness.

Quinn, my Watcher and my friend, was one of the seven Voss brothers who attended my family. Watchers are the personal human guard of the vampires; men who have dedicated their lives to the well-being of their vampire families; none more loyal than the Voss.

I rushed to the stairway leading to the entrance courtyard, but stopped just as Quinn emerged from the doorway at the bottom.

"What's happened?"

"A courier has just arrived. The whole council has been called to meet in Salzburg, and each family has been directed to include their best young royal representatives in their party,. You will be joining your father. Come with me now, we have begun making preparations to leave, since the journey is long and the Council is to meet in just fourteen days."

That was Quinn, always seeing to the needs of our family. He and I had grown up together, becoming so close, my father had actually sought to warn me. "Katrina, Quinn is your Watcher and must remain as such."

Bristling, I'd told him in no uncertain terms, "Quinn was also my friend, my best friend", but later I found myself wondering if it was still the truth. Had I started to feel something more? No, I reassured myself; Quinn was my friend, and of course I cared for him, yes, maybe even loved him, but as a friend, or a member of my family. Right? I guessed I would need to sort this out, but it would have to wait, for tomorrow we were leaving on a journey that would take us north and east; a journey that could hold danger. I grew excited at the prospect. The unknown is always both the most frightening, and the most exciting part of any new adventure.

My head swam as I realized the full impact of the Council's directive. Our retinue would be large enough, but all the clan's would be adding their royal families' most worthy young members, and the numbers going to Council this time would be in the hundreds. All would be traveling with their entourage made up of Watchers, servants, and caravan wagons filled with provisions. There would also be wagons carrying the bales and boxes of gifts for the other clans and their leaders, especially those chosen for the High Regent.

"Katrina, you look weak." Quinn broke my reverie. "When was the last time you fed? Did you drink anything today at all?"

Quinn was right; I hadn't had Crimson or been out to hunt all day, preferring to concentrate on the development of my gifts and military skills. I thought back now, I hadn't fed since the day before or maybe longer. I realized with a start, I was very near dormancy and could have gone into that state in my sleep. Dormancy, a kind of hibernation if you will, is a slowed metabolic state which saves us when we have to hide, heal, or survive when food either was not available or was tainted. This dormancy can last hours, days, weeks, or even years. Now that Quinn had brought it up; I did feel weak, too weak to hunt. Why hadn't I paid more attention? Suddenly my vision started to fade; and I was forced to leaned against the wall to steady myself from the overwhelming feeling of dizziness.

When I awoke, Quinn was wrapping a cloth around his wrist.

"You must be more responsible." he chided me. "I can't be in charge of your feedings too!"

He was angry, so angry his face was red, and though I had never bitten a human in my life, the bulging vein on his neck was making me feel something I had never felt before - blood lust. It didn't help Quinn was so handsome, and as he kept ranting about how I was ignoring my training, my studies, and everything else, I couldn't help admiring the ruggedness of his jaw and the way his dark brown hair flopped onto his face; his beautiful face.

"Katrina, Katrina! Are you even listening to me at all?"

Snapping out of my reverie felt almost painful; I would have liked to remain there just a little longer.

"Katrina?" his inflection changed as he walked toward me.

The impulse to throw my arms around his neck and kiss him passionately was so overwhelming, it took all my strength to contain myself.

"What is wrong with you Katrina? We have no time for this."

I spun away to gather myself, and then tears filled my eyes. I am not someone easily moved to tears, I had to wonder, what _was_ wrong with me? I felt a jolt when Quinn placed his warm hands on my shoulders and turned me to him. When he saw the tears, he froze for a moment. Then his face softened and I saw something new there, but then he hardened again, "You must be more careful."

He strode away, leaving me feeling abandoned and hollow.

I walked to my room in a daze, suddenly drained.

The door to my room had never felt this heavy, I thought as I pulled it open. Once inside, I was pleased to see the bed turned down and a meal of sweet bread, butter, and a glass of wine on the table. Thank goodness for Sarah. Sarah my handmaiden and confidant, had been with me since I was a child. Our relationship was special and I could always count on Sarah's calm good nature, wry humor, and wise council.

I quickly ate the food, choosing to savor the wine. Then, too exhausted to put on the dressing gown left out for me, I lay down on the bed; the last thing I remember was picturing the look in Quinn's eyes and wondering what it meant. Though fleeting, it had been there, hadn't it? With that thought, I slept.

### ~~~~

Entering the courtyard of the Watcher compound, I found three of my brothers, Thomas, Simon, and Avery, seated around the roaring fire. The smell of venison and red cedar firewood made my mouth water and I realized I hadn't eaten since yesterday. I needed to take my own advice and have a meal.

The food brought back to mind what had just happened with Katrina. The thoughts made my heart race and shortly my it pounded so loud, I felt certain everyone in my compound could hear it. I saw something different in the way she looked at me and I was sure it wasn't just because I had yelled at her. Was the fact I'd cut myself and let her feed directly from my wrist, the reason that she saw me differently? After all, I had never had to hand-feed her before. But since she hadn't awakened until afterwards, she didn't know I had given her blood from my arm, or that she had actively engaged in a direct feeding.

I knew of course, it was strictly forbidden for a Watcher to give blood directly, but when she fainted she was clearly in danger of dormancy, so I acted. My only thought at the time, was getting fresh blood into her as quickly as possible. As my knife opened the vein on my wrist, the scent made her nostrils flare and the same instinct that kept vampires alive for centuries kicked in. She grabbed my arm and began to feed. The movement was so swift and powerful I wasn't sure I could have stopped her even if I'd wanted to.

The feeling I had while she was feeding could only be described as pure euphoria, and only the sound of my brother coming up the stairs made me break the bond. I quickly carried her to a side room to recover. "Break the bond." Why had I thought of it that way? Was that it? Had that short feeding changed everything between us?

I calmed as I began my meal. I needed to fortify myself since my brothers and I would be giving and storing blood for our charges for the trip.

Although Baron Von Dracek would surely hunt along our journey, in the event there was no game available in the high country, the added availability of Crimson would definitely be needed. Nothing gives strength to a vampire like the human blood in Crimson.

As I sat by the fire, my oldest brother, Gunter, approached.

"We missed you at training today," Gunter told me gruffly. "Don't let it become a habit. None of us can be the weak link."

I was the youngest of seven brothers, something the other six never let me forget.

It was exciting to think I would now have a chance to prove myself on this journey. As Katrina's Watcher, I was bound to protect her no matter what might happen, even to the point of giving my life for hers, something our family had done for generations.

"Quinn," Gunter started to pace, "Only four of us will accompany the Baron and Katrina on this trip, and I've decided you are too young and untried in battle to be one of the four."

I jumped to my feet, pulled my sword, with anger I didn't know I possessed, looked Gunter straight in the eye and through clenched teeth I yelled, "I dare any of you to try to keep me from my duty. Nothing is going to stop me from going on this trip, including you, Gunter. If you have any doubts, let us settle them here, and now."

Gunter gave Thomas a surprised look, and slowly rose from the seat he had just taken by the fire. Looking around at the others, he shrugged, "All right, little brother, let's see what you've learned."

As I backed into the open part of the courtyard, Gunter drew his sword and we prepared to fight. The fire reflected off our blades and made them seem to jump in our hands, as we circled first right and then left. Gunter lunged, his sword held high. When moments before I felt tired and weak, I was now invigorated by both my anger, and the thought my brothers would try to leave me behind.

I countered Gunter's move, our swords sparking once, twice. Out of the corner of my eye, I could see servants and my other brothers gathering. Guards were now yelling encouragement from above.

"That's it, lad, don't let Gunter push you about!"

Gunter was strong, but I was fast and that easily made up for his extra years of training. I had always been a quick study and even before I was allowed to train with my brothers, I had mirrored the movements made during their mock battles, over and over again. Although Gunter had trained all of us, his eyes showed surprise at my proficiency; and at something in me he hadn't seen before- pure rage. The rage brought an adrenalin surge that made me stronger, quicker, and more alert. We fought across the compound. Then Gunter made a mistake, and I seized my chance. As he lunged, I easily jumped aside. As he whirled by me, I whacked him on the back of the head with the hilt of my sword.

Gunter grunted, turned, and charged. I ducked his blow. Too late Gunter realized his mistake; his momentum had brought him closer than he wanted. With the new-found power of my anger, I hit him hard in the gut with my fist. Gunter bent over in with a gasp of pain and shock, and as I backed away, the now crowded courtyard erupted in cheers and laughter.

"I guess your little brother showed you a thing or two, Gunter," a guard shouted from above.

Gunter raised his head, his hands still on his knees, and yelled, "Don't you all have work to do? Be gone, morning comes quickly!"

Still breathing hard, I remained in attack stance, ready to continue if I must. The adrenalin still rushing though me would enable me to take on all of my brothers, one-by-one if I needed to. I would not be denied. The coming journey was my destiny, now more than ever.

Gunter slowly stood and put his sword back in its scabbard.

"Well, little brother, you've learned well and I have obviously misjudged your skill. You have just earned the right to join us. So it will be the two of us, plus Thomas and Simon on this journey. Be ready, we leave before dawn.

### ~~~~

I rose with a start, not even sure what day it was. My head throbbed, and just as I was about to ring for Sarah, she rushed into the room, a full breakfast tray in her hands.

She dragged me out of bed, peeled me out of my rumpled dress, and helped me wash, all the while bemoaning the state of my beautiful hair. While I ate, Sarah told me about a fight the night before between Quinn and Gunter. She didn't know what started the confrontation, only that had Quinn won, and everyone had survived intact.

By the time I had finished my huge breakfast, plus a large goblet of very fresh Crimson, Sarah had finished braiding my hair back away from my face.

I rose and dressed myself in a simple, functionally tasteful traveling outfit of the softest lambskin leggings, riding boots, and a beautifully embroidered emerald green over-tunic. Sarah then pushed me in front the mirror, a gift from my father on my seventeenth birthday. Had it been so long since I looked at myself? I hardly recognized the girl in the mirror. The tall young woman looking back at me looked surprised too!

I had to admit, as Sarah often told me, I was pretty. My golden brown hair shone in the candlelight, and my green eyes, full of wonder at my appearance, complemented my outfit perfectly. I felt strong and ready for whatever would come.

The Vampire as a species has undergone centuries of evolution and a progression of that development is our ability to slow down the process of aging. Beginning in our seventeenth year, our metabolism slows and we begin to age very gradually. For the next hundred or so years my body would undergo only subtle changes, changes that would leave me looking more mature, but essentially the same; unless of course I didn't feed. I would have to apologize to Quinn about yesterday. I also wanted to ask him about the fight. Maybe it would be better to let him bring it up, I decided.

It was May in Germany, and although mornings were still cool, the wind was sweet with hints of jasmine in the soft mountain breeze. The birds were already awake, singing and going about their business. The beginnings of sunrise made the eastern sky glow with soft bands of pink and orange.

I closed my eyes and drew a deep breath. In my mind I could still hear my father's voice asking, "What do you 'see _'_ daughter?" When I was small, I didn't understand what he meant, but soon the purpose of this action became clear. I was gifted with an extraordinary sense of smell, one even stronger and more refined than the normal vampire acute version of that sense. With my gift, I could 'see' almost everything—humans, vampires, and animals alike—and was able to discern their numbers.

Later, I was able to identify individuals, using each being's unique scent (not always pleasant) as a marker. I was able to differentiate between horses, dogs, sheep, goats, and the like. When outside the grounds, I could add my acute hearing to my sensing, and tell not only the kinds of animals or people, but also how far away and in what direction they were. If I was patient and practiced, Father said it would become a very useful gift indeed. I quickly learned, once I found and identified a scent, I was able to somehow store and retrieve it for reference later. I have never forgotten one.

"Katrina," my father called as he walked towards me. Tall and regal, he looked handsome in his all-black attire, which included a hat and a cape. His slightly graying hair fell to his shoulders.

"Yes Father?" I replied, as I hastened to meet him.

"Are you ready? Did you have gifts packed for everyone?"

Although it was customary to give gifts of friendship to his Lordship the High Regent, and his wife the Lady Margarite, I had also ordered Sarah to pack extra trinkets and sundries in case we needed them along the way.

"Yes Father, everything is in order."

It must have taken all night for the servants to complete all the preparations, I thought.

"Then let us be on our way. The journey is long and we know not what awaits us. Why his Lordship demands such secrecy I don't know, but I'm anxious to arrive early and have some time to seek counsel with others before everyone else arrives."

"Yes, Father." I felt as if I was rushing behind him like a young pup, in order to keep up with his long stride.

Then I spotted Quinn and my heart started to race. He was standing by the horses, my beautiful bay mare and his dark grey gelding, their manes fluttering in the early morning breeze. He was talking to Thomas and hadn't noticed me yet.

Why was I reacting to him this way? He'd been my Watcher for a year now, and after all, we had grown up together. He was just my Quinn. My Quinn? Where had that come from? He'd always been just Quinn. I was drawing closer now and just as I stepped within a few feet of him, Thomas stopped talking and looked over. Quinn then turned and our eyes held for a moment before he looked away.

"My Lady," they both said at the same time, and made a slight bow of their heads. My Lady? Not, good morning, Katrina, or why are you late? This was all too strange and I was determined to get to the bottom of it soon, but just as I was about to remark on their new attitude, the castle guard yelled out.

"Caravan approaching!"

Count Philepe Bistodeau, his son Gerhardt, and their entourage cantered through the west gate.

"Oh, good, Fredrik. I was afraid you would already be gone," Philepe slowly circled his mount to a walk .

"We were just about to depart, Philepe," Father extended his hand in greeting.

"Excellent, we can travel together. There's safety in numbers, and we can talk along the way."

Then Philepe turned his gaze to me.

"Ah, is this Katrina? How beautiful you have become. You remember my son Gerhardt don't you?"

I did. A pompous, spoiled, self-absorbed peacock, as I recalled; but I greeted him, "Yes, of course. How are you, Gerhardt?"

"I'm getting better all the time. I look forward to a long journey together."

I managed _not_ to show my distaste as I thought of being regaled by his self-aggrandizing tales of daring-do for days on end. If I heard him talk about how great he was one more time, I would be nauseous.

Quinn brought over my horse, Nulla, and helped me mount. After I was safely in place he gazed up at me and whispered, "Don't worry Kat; I'll always be here to save you."

Then he winked at me, went over to his horse and mounted.

I smiled and turned Nulla toward the east gate, positioning us so Quinn was on one side and Simon on the other. Gerhardt then had no option but to ride with someone else.

I turned to Quinn to say thanks, but he was looking straight ahead, a wry smile on his face. I know I would have laughed out loud had I been privy to his thoughts.

Much later, I was relieved when finally Gerhardt rode by us and joined our fathers. I had endured hours of his trying to engage me in conversation. His surrender was a small victory, but a very satisfying one.

For the next three days there was no privacy and no chance to speak with Quinn alone. We would arrive in Salzburg the day after tomorrow, about which I felt both excited and fearful. Having the young royal vampires together at one time and place had never happened before. Up to now, we had only briefly met with the other European clans to discuss rogue vampire killings or other clan business. I'd never seen most of the other clans. Of course Father had visited all of them, responding whenever help was needed, and knew those members who had been sent to Council. Along the way I had heard my father speaking to Philepe about how 'on edge' all the clans have been. The council is keeping the peace for now, but rivals are arguing among themselves over a new territory across the sea in the New World.

Where will all this lead? Was it true they intended to send us off to that New World they talked about? The Viking vampires had been going there for hundreds of years and had sent an expedition as recently as two years ago. I hoped there would be an opportunity to hear the tales of their exploits. These were not things that normally interested me, but the thought of young vampires from several of our clans being offered the opportunity of starting a new one in this New World, was exciting. I knew I wanted to go. Now all I had to do was convince my father.

Finally, after almost two weeks on the road, we were in sight of Salzburg. The view was stunning. I had no idea a place could be so grand, so beautiful. We rode through the city to the Regent's palace, located not too far outside the city gates. We had no time to linger now, but passing the shops, seeing the lovely outfits adorning the women and the couples having lunch, made me wish I had time to stroll the streets and explore all the wonders that abounded there.

"Daydreaming again?"

Quinn's voice jerked me back to reality.

"Yes, and I wish...." Then I realized these were the first words we'd spoken for days, and I wondered where Thomas and Simon were.

He said, as if reading my mind, "Thomas and Simon are consulting with Gunter about how best to guard you and his Lordship while in the Palace. What were you about to say?"

I paused. "Nothing."

My heart sank. I hadn't been alone with him for days, and now that I did have a chance, I couldn't think of anything to say. What a fool I was!

Quinn turned to me, and the look on his face showed, he couldn't think of anything either.

Finally I spoke. "I was thinking about the reason, we were traveling, the Council's coming announcement about the Americas. You'd be coming with me, right? That is, if they really are sending us to start a New World clan, I mean."

"Nothing is sure, Katrina. What we've all been hearing is just speculation. The High Regent may have called the Council together to tell us something completely different. He may even forbid anyone to go to this 'New World' as you put it. But I will say this- wherever you are, is where I'll be, until I am no longer."

Then he looked ahead, to see Thomas was returning.

Wherever you are, is where I'll be, he did love me. I was sure of it now.

### CHAPTER TWO

The roadway turned, and as we entered a dark forest I suddenly felt the weight of impending doom surrounding us.

"Listen," I told myself. "Use all your senses." I closed my eyes and took a deep breath. I could feel Quinn and Thomas tense as they realized what I was doing. They slowly drew their swords, and as they did, so did Gunter, Simon, and Father. I could 'see' many horses and many humans.

Then Father's voice boomed. "Ride!"

As we forced our horses into a gallop, my senses told me the men in the woods to the right of us, outnumbered us by ten.

"How far? How far were our attackers from us?" I asked myself. A mile maybe less, I detected.

"How far is the Palace?" I yelled.

"Two miles!" Father shouted back.

"We'll never make it;' they're only a mile away,"

Thank goodness we had left the wagons in the city with the servants, who would follow us later.

Then I realized no common robber would risk attacking such a large party. Despite all the care and secrecy with which we had undertaken this journey, someone must have alerted our assailants to our presence. We must have spies amongst us; for only one kind of human would have the audacity to attack us —the Volator—those whose sole purpose in life was to hunt and kill vampires. That they had picked this time to attack, was no accident, I thought.

I could see the Palace now, less than a mile away. We might _just_ make it.

Then out of the darkness of the woods, I detected the distinct whistle of an arrow in flight.

"Duck!" I screamed.

We instinctively bent down low as we urged our horses ahead. Another arrow came from the right, and a horse squealed and fell, the guard flying off his mount into the ditch.

Suddenly Father, Philepe, and Gerhardt pulled their horses up, jumped off, and ran into the forest.

"Get Katrina into the palace, now!" yelled Gunter. We galloped by as he dismounted to follow Father.

Suddenly Nulla tripped. Only because of my strength and quick reaction, was I able to cling to the saddle and avoid being thrown. I clung perilously, hanging off the side of the saddle, as Nulla continued thundering down the road.

"Open the gate!" Quinn yelled. He reached out to help me back into the saddle almost unseating himself.

I had trained my whole life to be able to protect myself, and the time had come to do it. I pulled my body up and back into the saddle, just as the gate opened and we galloped through. Guards, swords drawn, pushed past us, ready to aid Father. My heart was pounding as people rushed towards us.

"Are you all right, my Lady?" someone asked.

"Yes. Quinn, Thomas, are you all right?"

"Yes, we're fine. We're going back to help," Quinn panted.

"No!" Thomas insisted. "Katrina is your charge right now. You stay here; she must be safe."

I dismounted and noticed blood dripping down Nulla's leg, an arrow jutting from her shoulder.

"Oh, no!" I cried, "Nulla!"

Hearing my cry, Quinn ran over to see what was wrong.

"She'll be fine, Katrina," he assured me as he looked at the wound. The wound is not deep. Stable boy. Here Now! Take my Lady's beloved mare to the stable and see to her. Take great care and report back to me."

The stable boy nodded, and poor Nulla limped away with him.

As if he had read my mind Quinn assured, "She'll be fine. Your father will be fine. It's the cowards in the woods you should worry about. Your father and Philepe will show them no mercy. The only problem we'll have is to endure the stories of bravery Gerhardt will tell."

I rolled my eyes and we both had a laugh. It was short lived however, because just then we heard the gate swing open and Father's party gallop through, the dust from all the hoofs making it impossible for me to see for a moment, then I heard my father shout. "Katrina! Where is my daughter?"

"I'm here Father."

He was alive. And just as we had predicted, out of the dust Gerhardt appeared. "Did you miss me?"

Philepe, Gunter, and Simon were also unhurt but we'd lost four guards, two from our garrison, and two from the palace detail.

"What of the Volator, Father?"

Father had a shocked look on his face. "You knew?"

"Who else would it be?"

"Five got away, but twenty-five or so were not so lucky. Unfortunately I don't think their leader was amongst them. But I assure you he's not far, and we'll find him. No one is safe until we root out the traitor who has revealed us. Now you get cleaned up and rest, because we must report to the High Regent."

The thought of a traitor living among us sent shivers up my spine.

A lovely girl named Gretchen showed me to my quarters. Several young ladies would be sharing this large common area surrounded by bedrooms. Tall leaded glass windows on each side of the fireplace filled the room with light and gave the gold, overstuffed chairs and sofa a soft glow. A round table with six chairs sat in the corner. From the high, dark-beamed ceiling hung two iron candle chandeliers. My bedroom was the second door to the left, and in it was a large bed with wooden posts, lush green velvet bedding, and an eiderdown so thick they might not be able to find me in the morning.

I heard the door to the common room open, my curiosity revived me enough to rise to meet the new arrival. She was stunning. Glossy, ebony hair drifted over her shoulders nearly to her waist. Her large eyes were brown and her skin was the color of warm sand.

"Hello, I'm Katrina Von Dracek."

"How nice for you," she said in a bored voice without looking in my direction.

"I can see this is going to a long week," I thought to myself.

"I'm Rosalinda DiPalicio."

"How nice for you too," I turned to walk away.

"All right, that was rude, forgive me. It's was just quite an adventure to get here. I'm exhausted, I'm starving, and I smell like a horse."

The tension broken, we laughed. I knew just how she felt.

"Let's start again. I'm Rosalinda DiPalicio, but you may call me Rosa."

"I am pleased to meet you, Rosa. I'm Katrina Von Dracek, and you may call me Kat."

"There were some delicious morsels standing guard outside. I don't suppose we're allowed to feed on anything or anyone we want to?" Rosa grinned and licked her full lips.

"No, I don't think so."

Again, the door opened and Gretchen came in carrying a large case. She was followed by a girl of medium height. Her blonde hair was pulled back away from a lovely heart-shaped face, which featured a smile that seemed to light her from within.

"Hello. I'm Eleanor Flanery. We just arrived from England."

"I'm Rosalinda DiPalicio, and this is Katrina Von Dracek. You may call us Rosa and Kat."

"I'm glad to meet you, Rosa, Kat. Please call me El."

"And call me Letta, short for Arletta," said the girl stepping out from behind Eleanor.

Arletta Valdesio had traveled from Spain. She had olive skin and dark brown hair pulled back and up in ringlets secured with a beautiful jeweled comb. Instead of the brown I was expecting, coneflower blue eyes met mine as we were introduced.

Gretchen showed the newcomers to their rooms.

"Thank you, Gretchen. Has a bath been prepared?" Letta asked while stripping off her gloves.

"Yes, we could all use a bath," Rosa suggested, sniffing.

"I'll see to it at once," Gretchen answered, "and then I'll bring you some luncheon."

"Oh, glorious," El cried. "I'm starving,"

"I am, too," I realized then, I was hungry also.

Eleanor flopped down on one of the chairs.

"At least I survived the crossing. I really hate sailing. How were your journeys?"

"We were attacked in the forest, about two miles from the front gate," I informed them.

"Really? How frightening!" Eleanor's face showed her concern. "Was anyone in your party hurt?"

"We lost two guards, as did the palace, and, Nulla, my beautiful mare took an arrow in the shoulder, but she's going to be fine. Our forces defended and pursued them; Father thought only four or five of our attackers escaped."

"Who, was it? Why would anyone do such a thing?" asked El.

"There are many who dislike our kind and despise our way of life," Rosa retorted sharply, "They seek to end our existence and take our lands, but they're fools."

"It is true, men often seek to kill that which he does not understand, and it seems, as a species, man is always fighting someone," I added.

"Makes my trip seem pretty boring." Letta's eyes widened. "Although, I did get to stop in Paris to buy some new dresses. I'll show them to you as soon as my things arrive."

I wished I could be more excited about getting some new clothing. But most of the beautiful dresses Father had ordered made for me were still unworn, since we rarely had guests, and there was no reason for formal dressing. Personally, I preferred the simple, comfortable sheaths and leggings more suited to my training, to the constricting dress of a gentlewoman.

"Ah, Gretchen, thank goodness," Rosa sighed in delight.

We all followed Gretchen across the room, eyeing the tray of treats she had brought us for lunch, as she it on the table. She had also brought a pitcher full of Crimson to strengthen and refresh us and news the baths would be ready for us by the time we had finished eating. We practically inhaled the food and the Crimson. Then, dressing gowns in tow, we ambled off to our baths and looked forward to resting before dinner. I had hoped to see Quinn waiting outside the door, but he was nowhere to be seen. I'd have to seek him out later.

"If you're looking for your Watchers, they are gathered down the hall, deciding watch shifts and duties amongst them," Gretchen informed me.

"Thank you Gretchen." I smiled.

After the layers of grime were removed—which took a lot of scrubbing I might add—I put on my dressing gown and a robe Gretchen brought in, ran a comb through my hair, and slowly walked back toward my room. There, leaning against the wall, was the silhouette of someone I knew well.

"Quinn!" I called, so happy to see him.

He looked up and smiled. Without even thinking, I ran over, threw my arms around him, and drew him into a close embrace.

"Oh, Quinn, I missed you."

Quinn stiffened, I'm sure my hug was quite a shock. He had never seen me react to his short absence quite like this before. He grasped my shoulders and pushed me away slightly.

"I should stay away more often," he laughed. "I do have duties, you know." He feigned a serious look, and then he smiled.

"Is not my well being one of those duties?" I asked peevishly as I folded my arms and turned my back to him.

"Of course it is."

He pulled me back towards him, his arms now crossing around my waist.

"My most important duty," he whispered in my ear.

His warm breath on my neck made my knees weaken. My pulse raced; more than anything else in the world I wanted him to kiss me.

"Well, well. What have we here?" we heard from behind us.

Quinn pushed me away so quickly I almost fell. When I turned around I saw a man I'd never seen before.

"Lady Katrina Von Dracek, this is Joseph. He is Watcher for Lady DiPalicio and will be taking the first watch this evening. I will, however, be accompanying you to dinner, and if you wish beforehand, to the stables to see Nulla."

"Thank you Quinn. I would like that and I am pleased to meet you, Joseph."

"The pleasure is all mine" he returned.

I hurried past as fast as I could. Without looking at Joseph, who opened the door, I went in and straight to my room. As I rushed through the door, I was happily surprised to see Sarah laying out my clothes.

"Oh, Sarah, thank goodness."

She looked up. "Well at least you're clean. But we'll have to do something with this hair," she had walked over, as was now lifting wet strands and shaking her head in disgust.

"I brought those oils your father gave you last summer. You remember he brought them back from the Far East?"

"I do remember," I replied. "He had to join with Philepe and Demitrie to go to the aid of Gomon, whose clan was in a bitter fight with a wild enemy."

Vampires that are made, rather than born like us, when first created are known as fledglings. They can be unstable, even more so if they were unstable in their human form, or once made they had been left to fend for themselves without the benefit of guidance and training. This is why the making of new vampires is mostly forbidden, except in rare circumstances. As it happened, when our group arrived to help the Gomon, they were able to seek out and kill the made wild creatures by beheading, the only way to ensure the creatures stayed dead, and then the fledglings' remains were burned just for good measure.

"Well," I thought, "that's an unsettling subject to take a nap with."

"Sarah, finish my hair and get out a simple sheath for me. I won't be able to rest now. I want to go to see Nulla. Quinn said he would take me."

"What else did he say he'd do for you?"Sarah teased.

"Sarah, please. You know it's forbidden."

"Yes, _I_ remember, Katrina. But do you? I know your feelings for him; after all, we talked for hours on the way, if you recall. And I can see the look on your face and the flush of your cheeks, so don't act so innocent with me."

"Very well, but it's our secret—it has to be. All right, let's get me dressed, and then go ask that Joseph fellow to find Quinn, so he can escort me to the stables."

When Quinn arrived, I guessed the other girls were resting, because there was no sound in the common room.

"Thanks for coming a little sooner than we planned."

"Not at all, my Lady. It's my duty to be at your beck and call," he said without expression.

I rolled my eyes. He was obviously making an effort to be more professional in front of Joseph, who gave us a look and a smile, but said nothing.

"Shouldn't you be resting?" Quinn asked. "We've had quite a trip."

"I wasn't tired," I said, as we walked down the stairway and then across a small garden courtyard.

"Sarah brought up the situation Father faced with the fledglings in the Far East last summer, and I knew I wasn't about to sleep after that. And I really do want to check on Nulla. Are you sure she's going to be all right?"

"They carefully extracted the arrow, then cleaned and bandaged the wound, and she seems comfortable. I even brought her carrots from the kitchen. She'll be fine."

"How about Father and the others?"

"They've been in Council since we arrived. Everyone is a little shaken because of the attack this morning. I don't really understand the attackers' motives either; there have been no killings other than the ones they bring on themselves. Maybe that's what they are trying to do."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean, how can they get rid of you—that is to say, us, all the clans—if they can't blame current unrest and murder across the continent on vampires? Without the violence and killings, no one would believe you're a threat, and then they'd have no right to hunt you."

"Well they don't have any right period. We _are_ peaceful. We take care of our own problems as they arise amongst ourselves, as we have for a hundred years. Why do you think these Volator hate us so much—especially the leader, whoever he is?"

"I don't know, but I wager your father does. Have you ever asked him?"

"When subjects like that come up he always says 'it's Council business' and tells me 'not to worry' about it. He let me know this was one of the subjects not suitable for discussion. It's just like when I bring up my mother."

"Here we are the palace stables. After you, my Lady."

"Oh, for heaven's sake, I've been Kat for all the years you've been training to be my Watcher, and now all of a sudden it's 'my Lady'?"

"It's the proper way to address you, especially around here."

I turned to face him then.

"What if I were to punch you right in the gut?" I threatened. As I started to make a fist, he threw his hands up in surrender and backed away a couple of steps.

"Very well, Kat, but only when we're alone, all right?"

"All right, but that doesn't seem to be very often anymore," I complained as we continued on.

"Nulla, oh Nulla, there you are." I rushed to her stall.

She nuzzled my hand as I reached out and then put my head against her cheek.

"Oh, Nulla, you scared me half to death."

I patted her neck, and she bobbed her head up and down and shifted her weight, trying to get closer to me. She was such a good friend and I loved her dearly.

"See, she's fine."

"We had quite a scare today, and if anything ever happened to her, or you...or any of your brothers, I'd be heartbroken."

"Listen, Kat, this is what we train for, and we're very, very good at it, all right?"

"I know it's just that..."

I paused and looked up into his eyes.

" . . . .I care very much about...all of you."

He moved closer to me and took my chin in his hand; his fingers were warm against my cool vampire skin. As I lifted my hand to brush away the hair that always seemed to be in his eyes, he leaned forward, his lips parting. I could smell the sweetness of his breath and...

"Excuse me, my Lady."

Damn it! Why does someone always have to appear when I'm about to have the thing I want most, a kiss from Quinn?

"Yes?" I responded, with the most annoyed voice I could muster.

"I'm sorry to disturb you, my Lady, but they have asked all of you to come to the great hall for introductions, and Sarah said I'd find you here. I'm to tell you that you must come to your room to change."

"Tell her I'm coming right along." When he hesitated I pointed to the stable's door, "Well, go ahead. I'll be right there."

Quinn turned to leave.

"No you don't." I pulled him to me.

 I was certainly not leaving that stable without my kiss. I put my arms around his neck, rose up on my tiptoes, and kissed him with all the pent-up passion that was in me. Surprised at first, he relaxed into the kiss and with matching passion, wrapped his arms around me and lifted me off the ground. The world disappeared in that moment, and nothing mattered but Quinn and this kiss. When we reluctantly parted, a sigh left my lips. I slowly opened my eyes, half expecting to be waking from a dream, but he was gazing back at me. It _had_ happened. We both knew what we felt without having to say the words, _I love you._

We hurried back across the courtyards and gardens hand in hand. He left me at the entrance of the hallway, as he too had to change and receive his orders.

"Katrina Von Dracek, where have you been?" Sarah demanded in a very annoyed voice.

"You know perfectly well where I've been, or you wouldn't have known where to send someone to find me." I responded in the same tone of voice.

"You know what I mean. What took you so long to get back here? The other girls have already been escorted down to the great hall."

"Sarah, calm down. Next to the others, I will simply disappear anyway. They make me look like plain white bread next to pastry."

"That's not true, Katrina," she challenged, as we hurried to get my sheath off and the new dress on. It was my favorite red silk, with puffy sleeves to the elbow, which then were fitted to the wrist, and with beautiful silk-covered buttons adorning the sleeves. The same buttons appeared again on the corset front, which pushed my breasts up and out and made my waist look even smaller.

"Good thing we did your hair earlier," Sarah grumbled.

She pinched my cheeks and whisked me to the door. I smiled and then stopped dead when I saw Quinn. He had changed into formal attire and looked soooo handsome that I felt my heart skip a beat.

"No time to gawk at each other now. Go, go," Sarah pushed me out the door.

"You look stunning Kat."

"Thank you. You clean up nicely yourself," I smiled as looked up at him.

We laughed. Here we were, just two people in love, walking into the unknown; but we knew we were going there together.

Father was waiting for me at the door to the reception room.

"Finally," he greeted me impatiently. "We are one of the last to be introduced. Almost all the others have arrived and have already taken their places."

When we got to the top of the stairs, I looked back for Quinn. He smiled and at once I felt better.

"Baron Fredrik Von Dracek and Lady Katrina," the liveried herald announced in somber tones.

My Father made a head bow and I a slight curtsey and we started down the stairs. _Don't trip, don't trip, smile, don't trip,_ I thought.

I surveyed the room, hoping to find a friendly face and located Eleanor, Rosa, and Letta with their fathers. All three looked stunningly beautiful.

Eleanor was in a dark blue gown, the color of a night sky. Rosalinda in teal, her black hair braided around her head and down her back; and Letta wore red satin, trimmed with black lace around the collar and down the front and at the edges of her sleeves, her hair still the way I saw it earlier. Of course with their beauty, all three could have worn sacks and would have made them the new fashion. But having them all smile at me helped me feel at ease.

Philepe and Gerhardt gave a head bow of acknowledgement as we passed. My face burned as I noticed Gerhardt's gaze didn't leave my chest. It is my best asset, but it would have been polite for him to remember I had a face. As we took our place, I thought Father had been right; we should have been here sooner. Being one of the last to be announced was a big disadvantage, because now I didn't know who anyone else was. Except for the three I'd already met and Philepe and Gerhardt, everyone else in the room was a complete stranger. I'd have to meet up with the girls later in the evening, so they could help me put names to faces.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let me now introduce the High Regent, Count Petrovich Daminov, his wife, the Countess Margarite, and his son, Damien, and daughter, Luena."

All eyes turned to the top of the stairs. The Count was quite old, and his pure white hair made his skin look even paler, but he was regal and handsome and in no way frail looking. From one of the oldest known clans, Count Daminov has been ruler of the vampires for over one hundred years, since the clan wars ended and the Council began. Both feared and respected, he's ruled the clans with an iron fist and swift justice. Some say it's time for a change, but fear if his son Damien came into power, the alliance between clans would break and the ground would again turn red with the blood of both vampires and humans. His wife, the Lady Margarite was his second wife, and it was gossiped his first wife had disappeared under mysterious circumstances, but this was before my time and I knew none of the details.

Margarite looked lovely in a silk gown, which seemed as if it had been spun from pure gold. It was cinched in at the waist, with a full skirt billowing to the staircase. The largest ruby I'd ever seen adorned her neck, and on her ears were earrings to match—rubies circled with diamonds. Her hair was piled beautifully atop her head and sparkled with a diamond and ruby tiara.

The Count and Countess were halfway down the stairs, when I looked past them at Damien and Luena, now taking their turn on the stairway. As they descended, they looked from side to side, acknowledging the crowd. I had heard Luena adored her brother and would like nothing more than to see him rule next, whatever the cost. Some even said the Count should watch his back, as betrayal could come from within his own family.

I watched as they came closer and despite Damien's flawless handsome features, a combination of his shoulder-length brown hair, long sideburns, square jaw line, and piercing dark eyes, there was something else; a nagging feeling I struggled to grasp. I smiled to myself; he was so good looking, from behind me in the hall, I heard the sounds of women swooning. But, again there was that irritating feeling of something I couldn't quite put my finger on. Just then the Count and Countess reached the bottom of the stairs and greeted my father, who then preformed my formal introduction.

"May I present my daughter, The Lady Katrina Von Dracek." I curtsied slowly, dropping low over my foot.

"She's lovely, Fredrik. So much like her mother."

Was I? I had no memory of her, so I couldn't know, but still it made me feel...proud. I wished Father would talk about her. Introductions compete, the Count and Countess moved on to meet the many others waiting to greet them. Damien and Luena were now at the bottom of the stairway. I hadn't even looked at Luena until now. Like everyone else in her family, she was breathtaking. Her dark brown eyes were set in porcelain skin; her low-cut emerald-green silk gown shimmered in the candlelight of the hall. Large emeralds, their color perfectly matched to her gown, adorned her neck and ears. They made a stunning pair, the brother and sister royal.

As I looked from Luena back to Damien, I was shocked to see he was openly appraising me. Those eyes...could he read my mind? I gasped, for just as I formed the thought, he smiled at me, as if to confirm it!

"Baron Von Dracek! So nice to see you again," Damien, offered his hand.

"Damien, Luena this is my daughter, Katrina."

I curtsied and extended my hand to Damien in greeting. He took hold of it and while still holding my eyes, bent and gave the back of my hand a kiss. I felt, what I could only describe as pure energy coming from his lips onto my hand, up my arm and into my heart! I could feel my face heating as he stood there smiling at me.

"Delighted to meet you, Katrina."

"Come, Damien, we have others to meet," Luena took his arm to guide him away.

"Yes of course, sister," he said with a hint of sarcasm. "Please save a dance for me, Katrina."

Then once more he acknowledged my father.

"Your Lordship." He turned and gave a slight bow, which my father returned, and then brother and sister were gone.

At least he looked at my face, I thought. I had never met them before but again I had a strange feeling about him, but what? As for Luena, there was nothing good about the feeling she gave me.

Next we made a circuit around the room, casually greeting everyone, and I hoped I would somehow be able to remember who was who. Some families would be easier to commit to memory than others of course. Such as the tall and elegantly regal Tantees from Africa, with their caramel colored skin, high cheek bones, their beautiful bodies draped with the most colorful fabrics. Chander, who was my age, was a prince. His father MoMar was king of his clan, and he and my father knew each other well. The delegates, also quite memorable was the clan from the Far East, the Gomon. They had beautiful Asian eyes, black short hair, and wore clothing of hand-embroidered silks of red and gold, depicting scenes from their homeland. Hun Lee, Lord Gomon's son, spoke seven languages and by all accounts was the most brilliant mind in attendance.

The tall, handsome Vikings also were easy to pick out, with their broad shoulders, long blonde hair, chiseled rugged features. Sven Arenkiel and his son, Axel, both wore full beards and although their hair was blonde their beards appeared to be shaded with red. Their piercing blue eyes were in constant motion and they seemed to be always on guard, and ready to fight at a moment's notice. I smiled as I imagined their smoldering, quiet passion awaiting a lucky girl.

Of course the girls' fathers we would see often: Duke Ricardo Valdesio, Arletta's father; Edward Flanery, Eleanor's father; and Michael DiPalicio, Rosalinda's father. Everyone seemed exceedingly pleasant, but still an element of caution and apprehension filled the room. I imagined that outside, on the commons and on the walls, there was also a lot of tension. Since news of the attack had spread, everyone's Watchers were on edge. Tonight we eat and enjoy each other's company. Who knows what tomorrow will bring.

Later, Rosa, El, and I sat together discussing fashion and those in attendance this evening. Other than the Council members, it was indeed hard to keep the other royal family members matched.

"I think we should all wear name tags with family crests and have a coordinating list," grumbled Rosa.

She was particularly attracted to Axel, as were many of the young ladies in attendance. Much to the disappointment of the half-dozen or so girls that surrounded him, he didn't dance.

"How are you ladies this fine evening?" asked Gerhardt. "I can't stay long, as that would deny too many others of my  company."

"You're forgiven, Gerhardt," I was able to maintain a completely serious face. "We understand, don't we girls?"

As he left to continue 'sharing' himself with those unfortunate women who hadn't yet been graced by his presence, we broke out in gales of laughter.

Rosa was asked to dance several times, as was Eleanor. I danced with Demitrie Devorak and an adorable Russian named Nicoli, but was content to watch people and chat with the girls. Finally I stood, ready to make my exit. I visually searched the ballroom for Father. I hoped for a moment alone with Quinn, before I rested for tomorrow's regimen.

"If you're looking for me, look no further."

"Damien, you startled me."

"I'm sorry, but I haven't had a chance to speak with you this evening. Would you care to dance?"

"No, I've danced all I can dance, I'm afraid. I was hoping to find Father and say goodnight."

"But the night is young, and it would please me if you could stay and talk, at least for a little longer."

He was even more mesmerizing than earlier, but something was still bothering me about him. Maybe I could figure it out if I stayed and spoke with him for a while.

"All right, you win. But just for a little while. I have training in the morning and as you know, the Council meeting later. What can you tell me, Damien? What's going on?"

"I am sworn to secrecy, my Lady, and I don't know very much myself. I would rather talk about you."

He brushed my cheek with the back of his hand, which sent tingles from my face down my spine. His dark brown eyes had a sparkle in them, which told me he knew and expected that very reaction. I stepped away.

"Damien, I really am tired – Oh, Father, there you are."

Damien looked deflated. I didn't think many girls refused his charms.

"Father, I'm very tired. May we go?"

"Of, course Katrina. Damien, goodnight."

"Lord Von Dracek, Katrina," Damien bowed slightly.

With those acknowledgements, we started to make our way from the hall.

"Quinn is waiting to escort you back," my father advised. "There is still something I must do. I will see you in the morning."

He gave me a kiss on the forehead and turned to walk away.

"Father?"

"Yes, Katrina?"

"Do I really look like Mother?"

"Yes, yes you do, just as beautiful."

Then he turned and walked away. His words made me happy and sad at the same time. As I left the hall, the cool night air gave me a shiver. Quinn stepped out of the shadows and placed a cape around my shoulders.

"Sarah thought you'd get chilled."

"She was right, as usual. She always knows what I need before I do."

I looked up at him, then and we both smiled. I was sure he couldn't tell I was blushing in the dim light of a half moon. I was thinking back to the last time we were together. That kiss was amazing, and although I had nothing with which to compare it, as it was my first kiss, I could not believe anything could match it. However, I was willing to try.

We walked slowly back. I really wanted some more time alone with him. Did he feel the same way, I wondered?

"Maybe we should check on Nulla again," Quinn proposed.

"Yes, I think you're right. I want to make sure they changed the dressing and used a fresh poultice."

He _did_ feel the same way, I was sure of it now. We quickened our step, we didn't dare take too much time; Gunter would figure it out, and that was the last thing we needed.

"You look so beautiful."

I had to look down. My face was feeling flushed again. My pulse was racing.

"Thank you, again."

Why couldn't I think of something to say?

When we arrived at the stable, Nulla's head was drooping, her eyes closed. Then her nostrils flared as she picked up our scent with her sensitive nose. A low whinny escaped from her throat and she tossed her head as though scolding us for taking so long to get close.

Quinn laughed. "She's never seen you in a ball gown before."

"Her dressing looks good, and I can smell the fresh poultice. Are you all right, girl?"

She placed her muzzle into my hands, the soft velvet caressing my palms. Quinn produced a carrot, which she eagerly took from his outstretched palm, and I scratched her neck, then gave her a pat.

"We should probably get back." A shiver went through me just then, so I pulled my cape closer around me. Quinn came behind me and rubbed my arms up and down to gently warm me. This gave me a shiver of a different kind, one that went from my stomach to my toes, a tingle I'd felt before, when we kissed.

He wrapped his arms around me, then from behind, the same way he had outside my room earlier that day, he kissed my neck just below my ear. I heard a moan and then I realized—it was me! Gently, he turned me to face him. We looked at each other for what seemed like forever, but was only seconds.

He began to lean down as I rose up to meet him. He pulled me closer, his arms now around my back. I slid my arms under his and up his back towards his shoulders. At that moment I knew this was right, and no one was going to be able to tell me this was wrong. No one, not even Father. When we broke from the kiss and the one that followed, I knew I would never forget this night. As we left the stable to walk back, we were startled by someone coming out of the shadows. Damien.

"Well, well. Aren't you two cozy?"

Quinn pulled me behind him placing himself between Damien and me.

"No need to be defensive; I mean you no harm."

Horrified, we both understood immediately what this conversation with Damien really meant. We had let our guard down, allowed Damien to approach us unaware, which is exactly why relationships between Watchers and their charges were forbidden.

"What brings you to the stables, Damien?" I asked.

"Oh, I was just out for a stroll, trying to relax after such an exciting evening." He looked past Quinn to address me. "I guess you found your second wind. Before you left the hall you were feigning exhaustion."

"My horse Nulla was hurt in the attack earlier, and I wanted to check on her, not that it's any of your business. Now if you'll excuse us, we'll be going."

"Of course, don't let me keep you. I'll see you tomorrow. But please be careful on your way back. You never know what lurks in the shadows."

As I passed Damien, I was overcome by the same sense of something escaping me, but what?

Quinn and I were silent all the way back, because now we both knew what needed to be done. I would not give him up. I also knew I would not let him give me up. He walked me up the stairs and as we turned to enter the main hall, we knew the time had come. The Watcher who had this shift would be in front of my door, so this would be our last chance to be alone.

"I love you, Katrina."

"I love you, too," I whispered softly.

He held me and I wished I could hold him forever, but I released him. Then he told me what I already knew.

"I can no longer function as your Watcher. I'll speak with Gunter in the morning. Either Simon or Thomas will take my place as your Watcher."

I nodded. Knowing it was right didn't make it any easier. We continued around the corner until we knew the other Watcher had seen us. Then Quinn just turned and walked away.

This couldn't be the end. It had to be the beginning.

"Goodnight, Joseph," I said as I got closer.

"My Lady," he opened the door for me.

### CHAPTER THREE

Once inside, I noticed the table had been prepared with fruit and pastries and a pitcher I assumed contained Crimson. I knew I should be hungry; since I hadn't eaten before we went into the Hall to be introduced.

Maybe in a minute I would try to eat something, but now I just wanted to warm myself by the fire. The part of me that needed the warmth, wished I would hurry to get a little older, for I knew the older I got the less I would feel heat or cold. The aging process also takes away our need to sleep, except when necessary for healing, and we no longer need to eat regular meals to sustain us. Filling my head with these thoughts was keeping me from breaking into tears. We would find a way to see each other, I promised myself.

I sighed and went into my room where I loosened the corseting at my waist, and shrugged the dress off my shoulders. Its sheer weight dragged it off my body and it fell to the floor. I stepped out of the rumpled gown now filling the space in front of the bed, and removed the equally constrictive undergarment. I slipped on the simple nightgown laid out for me, and crawled in between the two layers of down. In the cradle of softness, I drifted off to sleep.

The dream began with my taking in a breath just before our party was attacked. I could 'see' men on both sides of us, but there was something else, much farther away. I could almost place it...almost. Then it hit me. Now wide awake, I sat straight up in bed.

Damien! It was Damien in the woods that afternoon! Damien was the traitor! It was _his_ scent that was what I couldn't place! I had to tell Quinn; after tomorrow he would no longer be my Watcher, but tonight he was, and I needed him. We had to get to Father, now! By the look of the light, it was nearly four in the morning. I asked myself, "Why would Damien want to have us killed?"

Quickly, I dressed in my training outfit, leggings, boots, white long-sleeved shirt, and a leather vest. I tied my hair back with a strip of leather and strapped on my weapons.

In the common room, the fire was low but still crackled and the candles had melted almost completely down. I rushed to the door, expecting to see Joseph, but found the hallway empty, the flickering hall lamp cast shadows on the walls and floor.

Something was terribly wrong. With four Royal Vampire girls inside, at least one Watcher should always be at the door, and now the hall was empty.

"Joseph?" I called. No answer. Should I go back inside, close the door, and wake the others? "That's ridiculous. I'm a vampire; I'm fast and strong, and I can take care of myself," I told myself. I had Joseph's scent; he was around the corner. Why didn't he answer me? Rosalinda was going to hear about this if I found he was sleeping.

When I rounded the corner I could see him slumped on the ground. As I approached him, I sensed someone, too quick to be a human, come at me from behind, but I was quicker. As the attacker grabbed for me, I ducked and ran for the stairs, drawing my blade as I moved.

"Quinn!" I yelled as I ran. "Gunter, help!"

As I got to the stairs, a vampire I didn't recognize was blocking my way. He hissed and rushed toward me. I drove my sword into his side, his legs crumpled, and he fell on his knees to the floor. I heard footsteps from behind. I kicked the fallen body off my sword with my right boot and whirled to deal a fatal blow across the neck of the assailant. His head fell to the floor. I turned to see the wounded would-be assassin rise from the landing, his sword injury healing quickly. I swung and dispatched his head as well. Gunter pounded up the stairs toward me, Quinn was right behind.

"Katrina, are you all right?" asked Gunter, looking around wildly.

"Yes, I'm fine."

I was panting and still in a defensive crouch, but I _was_ fine, better than fine! I had done exactly what I'd been trained to do, I had defended myself and those around me. And I'd done it very well.

"Joseph is dead, around the corner from our rooms. Gunter you'd better see if the other girls are safe. Quinn, I must see Father, right now."

We headed toward the other side of the palace, where the Council had their accommodations. I was relieved to see Thomas and Simon in the hallway.

"Have you had any trouble here tonight?" I asked.

"No, not here. What's going on?"

"The Watcher guarding Katrina's room was killed and she was attacked," Quinn relied.

"By whom?" Simon asked.

"No time to go into it now. I must see Father."

Thomas opened the door; Father was staring out the window.

"Father, I must speak with you."

"Katrina, what's happened?"

He embraced me, and at once I felt safe.

"I was attacked Father, outside my room."

"Where was the Watcher?" he asked as he looked angrily at Quinn.

"Dead. Father, I was attacked by fledglings."

"Fledglings? Who would be creating fledglings? But why? Quinn did you get a look at them?"

"Yes, but only after Katrina had already killed them."

Father looked shocked.

"It is why you have the Watchers train me, isn't it Father? I don't think my attackers wanted to kill me. I think they were trying to kidnap me. Something else, Father, I had dressed and was preparing to come and see you. As I left my room I found Joseph, the Watcher on duty, was not outside my door, so I went looking and found him slumped in the side hallway. That's when I was attacked by two vampire fledglings. But Father, the reason I had to see you was I remembered something from the first attack outside the gates. I remembered the scent of someone in the woods with the Volator. A vampire. I couldn't place because I had never 'seen' this scent before, not until we arrived here."

I looked into my father's eyes.

"Who is it Katrina? Who's the traitor?"

"Damien. It's Damien Daminov Father!"

He stepped back away from me and gave me a stern look.

"You're absolutely sure, Katrina?"

"Yes! You've trained me well, Father. Everything and every being has its own unique scent, and once I have the scent I never forget it and can use it later when seeking a match. And how would Damien know what my gift is? He mistakenly thought he was too far away from us for his presence to be detected. Once the frenzy started, he thought he would be safe, but I had sensed something was wrong much earlier and took a very deep breath."

"That's right," added Quinn. "She started to use her gift about two miles outside the palace. I remember thinking it could only mean trouble and drew my sword."

"What should we do Father? The son of the High Regent has betrayed us. But why would he try to have us killed and then try to have me kidnapped?"

"Without more proof, we will only expose the fact we know what he is and what he's done. We'll need more, and what of the fledglings? If we can prove he is making new vampires against all the laws of the Council, we'll have more than enough evidence to convict him."

"But why would he take such a chance, knowing if he is convicted of this, it would mean his death? He must have powerful allies to do something this bold. He'll be very cunning; we have to find a way to learn his plans, either through someone involved or by getting someone into his circle. We must find a way to get close to him," reasoned Quinn.

"What of his Watcher? Anything going on concerning Damien, his Watcher must know." asked Father. "Gunter must know Damien's Watcher."

I turned to Father, "The Council meets today. There has to be a connection between the attack on the road, this one tonight and the Council meeting."

"Thomas and Simon will come with me to the High Regent. We must not delay the Council. I'll see to it the meeting happens as soon as possible. Quinn, you and Katrina ask Gunter about Damien's Watcher and set up a schedule to follow both. They must not find out what we know of their involvement, so be very careful to whom you speak, and beware of palace spies. Remember, Damien is very dangerous and has nothing to lose."

Once we were alone, Quinn took my hand and led me to another room.

"I think I might know the reason Damien wants your father dead. I've heard rumors this Council meeting's real purpose was to choose a new leader. Today the High Regent will be stepping down. That's why all the families have been assembled—to vote. Your father is the most likely to be elected to take his place, and I think Damien knows he can only become Regent if your father is no longer a candidate. Don't you see, Kat? First he tried to kill us on the road, and when that failed, he tried to kidnap you. I think by using you as hostage Damien thinks your father could be made to step aside. He could trade you life for the regency."

"Oh, my God! He saw us in the stable; Damien knows about us, too."

"The important thing now, is to talk to Gunter as soon as possible. And somehow we have to make Damien believe we're no longer involved, so he won't be able to use our feelings against us."

"You're right. Quinn, I have an idea. Maybe _I_ can get close to Damien. He seemed to be very interested in me, if only to get to my father."

"No, Katrina it's too dangerous."

"Quinn, listen to me, as soon as the Council meets it will be too late for his original plan to work. He will have a backup plan, we have to find out what that plan is. If he made those two fledglings I killed, there may be more of them somewhere. If he can't gain power through the vote, maybe he plans to take power with an army of fledglings. We are going to spread the rumor we have parted. What if I can convince him I am vulnerable to his charms, because of our recent breakup? He may think he could court his way into power."

"Who knew you could be so devious? We will, of course, explain all this to Thomas, Simon or whoever is to be your new Watcher, and I will insist an extra Watcher be assigned—me—to secretly watch his every move."

"Yes, of course. We can say you've been reassigned because of our 'closeness'. Why don't you send for Avery, Gregor, and Cedrik? We're going to need more Watchers and we know we'll be able to rely and fully trust your brothers."

"Let's go find Gunter. He was checking on the other girls," Quinn took my hand.

We hurried back to my quarters, where we found Gunter speaking to a large group of Watchers.

Sarah was sobbing into her handkerchief. Her face brightened when she saw us approaching and she rushed toward me crying with relief.

"Thank goodness you're all right. Something terrible has happened!"

"I know. Joseph is dead,"

"Not just that, Katrina. It's the girls; Rosalinda, Eleanor and Arletta; they're gone."

"Gone?" I looked at Gunter, "tell me what's happened?"

"We found a side gate unlocked, and we think fledglings surprised the girls in their sleep. Once they had the girls, they took them out that gate. With their speed, and obviously some inside help, no one saw a thing. Had you been in your room, they would have had you too, but the fledgling lookouts had the bad luck to run into you and didn't fare as well."

"Sarah, I'm all right, and we'll get the girls back. Find me something to wear to the Council meeting. Gunter, Quinn, send a vampire courier for your brothers. We have need of them. Come Sarah, I need to change, and I'm feeling a little weak, so I'll need to eat. From now on, make sure all the food and drink come only from our stores; trust no one but our people."

My mind was spinning. What did Damien want with the other girls? Was this just a ploy to cover the fact his real target was me? When I didn't come right back to my room, instead going to the stable with Quinn, it must have messed up his plan, so he came looking for me. When he saw us together, it was just a bonus to be used later, since he didn't dare expose himself and try to capture me there. Our only advantage at this point, is I wasn't taken, and we knew Damien was involved the in the girls' disappearance.

Sarah brought the food in. The poor thing was still shaking.

"I didn't hear anything and I was just at the end of the hall. I woke when I heard you yell for Quinn. I looked out, and all I could see was a blur of swords. Then it was over."

"I told you I could take care of myself. The other girls were surprised in their sleep, but they've had training and will not be easy captives to hold. We will find them, and whoever is responsible will pay a heavy price, I assure you."

I wolfed down the fruit, cheese, and meats Sarah brought me and drank the Crimson in the small pewter pitcher. The Crimson quenched my thirst, and strengthened me, but adrenalin surged through my body and I longed to hunt, although I knew there was no time.

"Let's get you cleaned up, Katrina. I don't know if you realize it, but you're splattered with fledgling blood. I filled the bath, get in and I'll come in to wash your hair."

"Quickly, then," I urged. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror on the way by; I looked like a warrior. It made me stand up tall and proud.

"I think you've met your match, Damien," I thought.

After I was clean and clad in the simple dress Sarah laid out for me, set out for the Council room.

Once there, I found the room packed, and I could feel tension in the air. Council members were speaking to one another of the events of the day before. Guards were posted outside, all around the perimeter, while the Watchers were posted inside, along the back of the Council room.

The Council members arrived, solemnly entering wearing robes of dark grey. They were followed by the High Regent, dressed in royal purple. Once all were settled in their places, the High Regent announced without preamble, "We shall come to order at once, as we have pressing business to discuss. It has come to my attention three of my Council members' daughters were abducted this morning, and the daughter of Baron Von Dracek was attacked. A Watcher was killed, as were two fledgling vampires." The Council room was filled with angry murmurs as the gathering absorbed the enormity of what they were being told. "We know no reason for these acts and are pursuing every avenue to insure the safety of our citizens and bring to swift justice whoever is responsible. As you know, the making of new vampires, fledglings, except under very special circumstances and by express permission of this Council, is prohibited and punishable by death. If whoever responsible for these egregious crimes, thinks he can intimidate this council, he is mistaken.

"Now for the reason you have been summoned here." He paused and then continued. "I, as High Regent of all the clans, have served you now these one hundred years; and I hope you think I served you well. But, it is now time for new leadership", he held his hand up against the outcry from the chamber, "and as soon as we vote here today, I will step down as High Regent and we will install your newly elected leader. I nominate Baron Von Dracek as my replacement."

"I second that nomination," shouted Philepe.

Then Count Marcus Devorak of Romania shouted, "I nominate Damien Daminov."

"I second that nomination," cried out his son, Demitrie.

"Are there other nominations?" He paused. "If we have no other nominations we will now vote."

One by one the crowd filed up and cast their votes silently, even somberly, until everyone had voted.

"The Council will now tally the votes. We will recess and meet back here in two hours," The High Regent rose and made his way from the chamber,

The room emptied, most people went to the dining hall or back to their rooms. I, however, needed to talk to Gunter. I knew he would be watching my father's back, so I asked Thomas to go with me to relieve him, while we talked. I needed an update on everything. Quinn had told Thomas and Simon the details of everything that had happened up until the Council meeting and had a courier sent home so Avery, Gregor, and Cedrik would be arriving soon.

"Any news on the whereabouts of the girls?" I asked Gunter.

"Vampire trackers have been sent out, but have not returned yet. If you are up to it Katrina, I would like you to use your gift to try to find them."

"Of course. I'll do so as soon as the results of this election are in. We should also be watching Luena; she has as much at stake as Damien."

"That shouldn't be too hard, since they are almost inseparable anyway."

"Katrina, Quinn informed me about his involvement with you. These things happen when you're young and together as much as you two have been; but as you found out, he can't protect you and you won't be able to protect yourself if you are distracted. Assigning a new watcher for you is for the best."

"I know, and that's why we told you. When we realized Damien was able to sneak up on us, it startled both of us. But Gunter, that doesn't mean we'll be apart forever. As for the present, what do you think of my plan to get close to Damien?"

"It's very dangerous, but you're right, I've seen how he looks at you. Using his lust may be our only way to find out what he's up to and find the girls. If he lets his guard down we just might be able to stop him before he starts a war."

"Luena might be a problem. If looks could kill I would have been dead at the ball. Her possessiveness of Damien is a little —no, a lot—creepy."

"I've placed Thomas as your Watcher, he along with Simon, will be guarding you day and night. We will make it known Quinn has been reassigned and his other brothers will be arriving soon. He'll get a regular Von Dracek guard uniform and be keeping an eye on Damien, Luena, and their Watchers. The girls' fathers have each provided extra Watchers to help him."

"If we're lucky, Damien will try to comfort me. Father is sure to win the election, and I'll be ever so sympathetic about his losing." I put on a simpering look and my voice dripped with cloying sweetness.

As I headed back around the front of the Council room, Damien stormed out through the side door. He seemed full of anger.

"Damien, what's wrong?"

"Congratulations are in order, my Lady. Your father will be the new High Regent."

"Oh, I'm so sorry, Damien. I know you would have been a wonderful leader."

His face softened upon hearing these words.

"I had no idea you regarded me so highly, my Lady."

"Katrina. Please call me Katrina."

"What of your Watcher? The feelings you have for him are not safe for you, you know."

"He's been reassigned; alas our closeness was not to be. He remains my friend, for we grew up together, but we cannot be more than friends. It's for the best; such closeness is forbidden for a reason."

Insincere, yes, but necessary, I thought.

I tilted my head, smiled, and gave Damien a sweet look. "If it were not so dangerous, I would love to take a ride with you, to cheer you up."

This prospect made him stand up tall and give me a puzzled look.

"Maybe I can arrange something later. I'm sure now you'll want to see your father's appointment as our new leader."

"Damien, I wish you would be my escort. It would be comforting to me and a nice show of support for my father's election. The gesture would demonstrate that you bear no hard feelings."

"Of course, Katrina. Shall we?" He offered his arm and led us into the Council room, our entrance inciting murmurs from the crowd now reassembled.

I was so proud of my father; he would be a great leader. As he was receiving his new adornment and seal, I whispered to Damien. "This will give us more time to get to know each other, because my father and I will have to stay longer so that he can complete all his new duties."

I didn't look at him but he squeezed my hand. "Indeed," he replied.

The ceremony installing my father as High Regent was followed by a dinner in the great hall. The celebration was subdued because abductions of three of the Council members' daughters, especially when the trackers returned, and reported they had lost the abductor's trail along the river to the west.

Father thanked Damien for his graciousness and excused himself to attend the matters at hand. "All this violence makes everyone so uneasy, no one will relax, least of all me, until the girls are found safely," and then he left us.

"Let us take a walk in the gardens," Damien suggested. "It will do us good to rest our minds from the troubles of the day."

"I'd love to," I answered with a smile. "Thank you Damien for escorting me to the installation ceremony, even though you were disappointed about the election."

"It was my pleasure, Katrina. Your company helped to lighten my mood. Indeed your friendship fills me with thoughts of a new future; one, I hope, will include a lot more of you. I . . "

"There you are, Damien," Luena broke in, possessively taking Damien's arm.

"Hello, Luena. How nice to see you again," I greeted her.

"May I speak with you please, Damien?" she said without even acknowledging me.

"Will you please excuse me, Katrina?"

"Of course."

The brother and sister walked away, either unaware of or forgetting my highly developed sense of hearing.

"Younger brother, have you lost your mind? Why are you wasting time with her? If we are to take power, we need to act soon, before the Council disbands. The families will be heading home soon and they will be vulnerable."

"An alliance with Lady Von Dracek could be very advantageous, Luena. There may be more than one way into power."

He turned to me and smiled. Over his shoulder I saw Luena's face darken, and her eyes narrow.

I smiled back at them both and then looked away like a shy schoolgirl. "Let them think I have succumbed to his charms," I thought. "He's so pompous, but also very handsome."

His shoulder-length brown hair was combed back and tied behind his neck, and those dark eyes—yes very handsome. I found despite my misgivings, I was strangely drawn to him. Then I asked myself, "How far are you willing to go to trap him?"

And, Luena, she was not going to be so easy to win over.

"I'm sorry for the interruption," Damien rejoined me.

"Shall we continue our walk, or must you leave with your sister?"

"I wouldn't think of leaving you."

I could see a guard in the background, and I was sure it must be Quinn, which meant Thomas was nearby also. Damien's Watcher was somewhere, I supposed, so it wasn't as if we were really alone. We sat in the garden for over an hour speaking of our childhoods, our training, and why he and sister were so close.

"I was so young when my mother disappeared, Luena became like a mother to me. No one ever talks about my mother or Luena's for that matter. At least Father's current wife is agreeable and she makes him very happy. Now that he won't be burdened with ruling, they can be together more and travel."

"Why did you want to rule, Damien?"

"I've had enough politics for one day," he responded. "I'd rather talk more about you."

He seemed at ease with me and me with him. I had my guard up, but he seemed quite different from the dark and angry man I'd seen earlier.

After several hours of relaxed and interesting conversation, I rose, "Well, I'd better be getting back. I promised Father I'd stay with him until we find the girls. Will you walk me there?"

"It would be my pleasure."

He rose and he took my hands in his. I turned to look up into his eyes.

"We could just run off together, we're faster than our keepers," he winked.

We laughed, but I couldn't help thinking he was at least partly serious. Then he surprised me. He bent down and whispered in my ear, "You could save me, Katrina."

When he straightened up I heard myself say, "If I can, I will."

"Did I just say that out loud?" I thought to myself? "It was my voice, but did I mean it?"

He put my arm into his and we walked on.

"Goodnight, Damien, and thank you again," I gave him my hand as we arrived.

He bowed and kissed my hand.

"Goodnight, Katrina."

I watched him walk away for a moment. "How strange," I thought. "He's either really good or not at all who I thought he was."

Thomas was at my side in an instant.

"I'll change," I told him. "Check the perimeter, and I'll meet you at the back terrace."

I rushed to get my dress off and don my hunting attire. If someone should see us, we could say I was going to hunt when, in fact, we would be looking for the girls. On the terrace, Simon had joined Thomas, Quinn and the guard.

"The trackers lost the trail at the river, so we'll start there." The men nodded in agreement with me

We started out on foot, since leaving the compound on horseback would draw to much attention. When we reached the river, I stopped in order to search with all my senses, starting with scent. I closed my eyes. Women, especially young women, have distinctive scents; their hormones cause the release of distinctive pheromones. I took in a deep breath; the breeze was freshening from the south. I could detect deer, fox, many small animals, and something else.

"A fledgling," pointing in the direction of that scent. "At least one, and he's traveling fast. Let's go."

I could travel much faster on my own, but I needed the Watchers; so I decided unless the fledgling was about to escape, we would stay together. When we got close enough, we spread out, making sure we didn't alert the vampire fledgling. Checking the sounds and smells again, I could detect more of them than just the one we were following. We were getting close.

"We should keep going, but slowly. There are more of them up ahead," I told Thomas as he came up behind me.

About fifty yards further on, we saw the remnants of an old fortress with a tall crumbling wall. On its top we detected two sentries. Our subject quickly made his way along the wall and disappeared around its side.

"It looks like we found the fledgling hiding place, but can you sense the girls?" Thomas asked me.

I tried again to pick up their scent but found nothing.

"I see fledglings and...humans, four or five men, but not the girls."

"Let's follow our friend around the wall." Simon looking to the group, motioned for us to join him.

As we cautiously rounded corner, we saw there were no buildings behind the wall; but instead there was in the hillside at the back of the fortress's crumbled perimeter with a large cave-like opening. Since the fledgling we tracked was nowhere to be seen, it was obvious the opening led to what was either their quarters, or at least a meeting place.

We observed for an hour or so, but during that time no one either entered or came out.

"We must get inside," I insisted.

"No, it's too dangerous. We were told to scout, nothing more," Thomas strongly reminded us.

"But we have to know what we're up against. Don't worry. I'm fast, and they won't see me. Remember, fledglings don't have gifts. I can sense them from further way and I can see in the dark better than they can."

I could see from Thomas's ridged demeanor, my pleading was getting nowhere.

"Kat, if they are alerted, we won't get a second chance. We must report back to your father."

"All right, Thomas, let's go back."

We arrived just as Father was finally returning from his meetings with the Council.

"Katrina, did you see any sign of the girls?"

"No Father, but we found where the fledglings are holed up. Across the river, south about three miles, there's an old fortress wall hiding an opening to some sort of cave. I sensed at least fifteen fledglings and five humans - male."

"Thomas, get Gunter. He should hear this, too."

After retelling our information to Gunter, we had to devise a plan.

Father paced as he laid out the plan. "These are new vampires; so they are still vulnerable to the sun. Since they were made, not born, their senses aren't as good as ours, but they will be very strong. Since Watchers aren't meant to fight vampires, we should use the elite vampire guard."

Gunter sputtered, "Our family has trained vampires for generations and we are used to their speed. I refuse to let any of you go without us."

"Then we should strike at first light," Father said accepting Gunter's reasoning.

"I'll give orders for another tracking party to go out before dawn," Gunter cautioned, "We can't take a chance of alerting Damien or any of his partners in this. The Romanians have shown their allegiance to him, so we must also beware of them and any of their party."

"Thomas, go and alert Philepe and Gerhardt. Simon, you go and speak with the Vikings. Katrina, I want you to stay here."

"But Father—"

"You'll need to distract Damien, he must not get suspicious. Quinn will watch Luena."

"I'll send word I wish to spend the morning with him. Sarah, take this note over to Damien's apartment and please wait for a reply."

"It's not fair," I wanted to scream. I was trained to fight too, and hadn't I just proven myself?

While Gunter and Father continued talking strategy, I decided I needed some time to myself. I opened the doors and stepped out onto the balcony. The moon was almost full, which made the night almost as light as day. This was not the adventure I had envisioned before we arrived. How did everything get so complicated?

"Katrina." I heard Quinn call softly from below. I peeked over the railing to see him in his guard's uniform. We both looked all around to make sure no one was watching.

"Meet me downstairs. I want to talk to you."

"I'll be right down," I whispered back. To the others I said, "I'm going to get something to eat. May I get either of you anything?"

"No, thank you," I heard.

I walked quickly down the stairs. When I saw him, I still felt that jump in my pulse.

"Please come in, and I'll fetch you something to eat." I said for the benefit of eavesdroppers.

"Thank you, my Lady. You're very kind."

Once he was inside, I gave him a big hug and a kiss.

"I missed you." I whispered softly before disengaging myself from the hug.

"And I missed you. Thomas told me what you found in the woods. I watched Damien all evening, he didn't leave his quarters and he just received, what I assume was a note from you, since Sarah brought it. She's on her way back, but she wanted to get supplies from our stores, so I brought the answer back with me." Quinn handed me the note.

"You should have seen the look on his face. He seemed pleased with himself I must say, and he did not hesitate to write this reply. What does it say?"

I opened the note and read it aloud, "I'll meet you at our spot in the garden at sunrise. I'll bring breakfast, and you bring your beautiful smile."

I sighed, "Should I swoon now or wait until tomorrow?" We both laughed.

"Oh, I forgot to tell you, Luena went out just after she talked to Damien in the garden. When did you leave the compound?"

"Not long after that."

"She went to a spot at the rear wall of the palace, far away from everything else, and entered what appeared to be a small storage building. She didn't come out for over two hours, and then she went straight to her room and must have gone to bed, as the candles were put out right after she returned."

"That's strange, don't you think? We got back about a half an hour before that and we didn't see anyone else outside the palace walls."

"I went around the entire perimeter of the palace and didn't see anyone, nor was there any sign of an outside exit from that storage area or the wall."

"Hmmm. What is that witch up to? So, everyone is in bed now, you're sure?"

"Yes, Damien, Luena, and the Romanians. Their Watchers are at their doors, except Luena's; no one seems to know where he's been for a while now. We have our people in place too."

"Shall we go and see what we can find in that shed?"

"Shouldn't we tell the others?"

"You know they won't let us go if we do. Besides it might be nothing, right? Did Luena have to unlock it?"

"Yes."

"Very well, I'll get the master keys Father was given this afternoon, after his installation. There are only three different sizes, one for main living areas, one for weapons storage, and one for supplies. One of these will work, I'm sure of it. I'll be right back.

I was only gone a few minutes and was back holding up the key ring.

Let's go."

Staying in the shadows of the buildings we worked our way around the back wall.

"This really is out of the way," I said. "It must be used as weapons storage depot for the guards up on the wall."

Just then we heard one of those very guards coming along the wall above us.

"Everything all right up there?" called out Quinn, as I hid in the shadows.

"All's well, no sign of trouble," answered the guard.

"Good, I'll inform the High Regent," replied Quinn. He then whispered to me, "He's gone. Let's try the middle key."

I slid the key in the lock; it fit, so I turned it to the right. _Click_. I smiled and looked at Quinn. We were in.

"Ouch." I heard Quinn mutter as he hit his head. There were no windows, but I could see there were matches in a cup next to a small candle. I lit the candle and filled the space with a soft yellow glow.

"Sorry, I forgot you can't see in the dark. What would Luena be doing in this small room for over two hours? You're sure no one else went in or out?"

"Well, I followed her here and after she left, I waited to make sure no one else came out later. No one did."

"And no Watcher was with her?'

"As I said before, no one seems to know the whereabouts of her usual Watcher, and I saw no other Watcher with her tonight. Usually Damien's loathsome Watcher, Ivan, is with them. What do your senses tell you, Kat?"

I closed my eyes.

"I can pick up Luena's scent most heavily in that corner, not much else."

We walked to the corner. Bundles of arrows were stacked on a pallet.

"There's nothing here," Quinn surveyed the area.

"There has to be. Help me move this. Oh, my God!"

The pallet was on some kind of a rail and when I pushed on it, it moved aside easily, revealing a very narrow descending stairway. A passage only wide enough for one person at a time was a brilliant defensive measure. A few expert archers at the bottom could effectively pick off a whole attack force as they were forced to descend the steep stairway single file.

"Katrina, no! We don't know what's down there, at least use your gift to 'see' first."

I took a breath in.

"The girls, I see the girls! I can't detect anything or anyone else except the lingering scent of Luena. Come on!"

I went first because I could see and hear better and because I was faster. The stairway emptied into a small room with three archways, all dark. The coolness of the damp underground chamber shivered through me and the close, musty air assailed my nostrils.

"This way," I pointed to the closest archway. The scent was so strong now, I knew they weren't far.

"Eleanor? Rosalinda? Arletta? Can you hear me?"

I heard muffled noises. As we moved down corridor a little further, it opened into a small room, and there on the floor bound, gagged, with their heads covered with black hoods, were the three missing girls. In a flash I knelt down, untied each one, and then made sure they were all unhurt.

"We're angry more than anything else," Rosa rose unsteadily, moving her wrists and flexing her hands to get blood flowing again.

"I expect you are, but there's no time for speeches now," I urged. "We need to get you out of here and back to my father's apartment without being seen."

"But why your father, Katrina? I want _my_ father."

"Just trust me Eleanor; this is how it must be. Let's get you up and out of here. Quietly. Remember your training, and be aware."

The girls were filthy and still in their nightgowns, but they were strong enough. We left the small room and went quickly back along the corridor.

Then a scent I knew all too well hit me straight in the face. Fledglings! Where had they come from? I looked behind us but saw nothing. No one.

Where was Quinn?

My heart skipped a beat, had they taken him? Were they holding him upstairs?

I saw feet coming down the stairs in front of us. I backed the girls into the shadows and put my finger to my lips, signaling for silence. We waited.

To my great relief, it was Quinn.

"Hurry," he whispered, "It's clear." He then turned and went back up the narrow stairs.

I pulled Eleanor forward.

"Run," I told her, then lined up Rosalinda, and finally Arletta.

They flashed up the stairs, each meeting Quinn at the top. I could now hear the fledglings getting closer, coming through the central archway. It took all my vampire speed to make it the final few steps up and out the narrow opening in the floor of the shed. Quinn pulled me up and out of the way and together we shoved the pallet back over the opening.

"Here, use this, Quinn," I tossed him a spear so he could block the rail and keep the fledglings from getting to us.

"I had better use one more. Good, that's it." He turned to the girls, "Now let's get out of here. I know everyone is shaken, but we must not be noticed. Kat will take you. Use your speed so you won't be seen. I'll lock up and meet you at the apartment. Don't worry; I'll bring your fathers with me. Now go!"

The girls and I raced along the palace wall. No human would see us, but vampires might. I kept looking side to side, checking for danger. So far, so good.

"We're almost there. Stay close."

We made it to the verandah and I looked in to make sure it was clear. It was.

"Thomas?" I called up the stairs.

"Katrina is that you?" I heard Gunter say as he rushed down the stairs. "Your father is frantic. Thomas and Simon are out looking for you."

Then I stepped aside. His jaw dropped and he gasped, "What the—"

"Let's get the girls some blankets. I'll explain later."

Then I took the girls past Gunter and towards the stairway.

"Any word?" I heard Thomas say.

When he and Simon came into view, Gunter nodded in my direction. The girls huddled together behind me.

"Where were they?" Simon asked, shocked.

"Get some blankets from storage," Gunter ordered.

Thomas returned a few moments later and handed me three woolen blankets. I wrapped them around the girls and gave them each a hug.

"You're safe now. Let's go upstairs."

I could hear Father pacing as Gunter opened the door.

"We found her," Gunter announced, and when I gave him a scolding look, he added, "Well, she actually...she came back on her own and she brought a few friends with her."

As we entered the room, Father's anger turned to shock.

"The girls, where...who...?"

"All in good time, Father, for now we must get someone to guard Luena to make sure she doesn't escape."

He gave me a questioning look, but sent guards immediately. Moments later, Quinn arrived with all three fathers in tow. The girls, who had been sitting quietly until then, ran into their father's arms and burst into tears. I then explained what Quinn had seen and all that had transpired in the corridors below the shed.

"I'm not sure we can wait until morning," I added. "The fledglings know the girls have been rescued. I didn't detect them when we first opened the passageway, so that means there must be another way in to those tunnels from some distance away."

"Now we know why the trail was lost by the river. That must have been a decoy group. They were here all along," muttered Gunter.

The girls were more settled now, and their fathers couldn't stop thanking us.

"We only saw fledglings, but we did hear a woman's voice once in a while," Rosa said.

"They kept us hooded and bound. We were fed very little, but had some fresh blood, human blood," Arletta remembered.

"I scented humans in their compound earlier."

"What should we do, Fredrik?" asked Michael, Rosalinda's father.

"Well, now that your daughters have been returned safely to you, I expect you to join us in exterminating this fledgling scourge."

"Of course," all three replied.

"If they know their leader has been exposed, they may disperse into smaller groups and be a greater problem throughout the continent and beyond. Katrina's right, we can't wait until morning. We have to act now. Wake everyone, Thomas, and have them come to the Council room. Simon, make sure to bypass any of the Watchers for the Daminovs before you alert any of our Watchers not on duty now. Quinn, tell the sergeant of arms to prepare our weapons as quickly as possible. Now go, everyone, and be ready within the hour."

I could tell by the look on Rosalinda's face she wanted to fight too.

"I know just how you feel," I told her. "We all want to go. Let's get you cleaned up, or otherwise they'll smell you coming. Sarah, oh good, will you...."

"No need, Katrina, the baths have been prepared, food and drink are on the way, and I've sent for clean outfits. Their Watchers have been notified, except Rosalinda's new watcher."

"What do you mean?" Rosalinda asked. "New Watcher? Where's Joseph?"

I had forgotten she didn't know.

"I'm so sorry, Rosa. The night the fledglings.... They overwhelmed him...I'm so sorry."

"I'm sorry too, miss, but at least it will be a comfort to you to know Katrina took care of two of those that did this," Sarah patted Rosa's arm.

"You did?" Rosa said through her sobs.

"Yes, my training served me well, as it will all of you if need be. Now take your baths and eat. You'll need your strength. Thank you Sarah."

"Of course, Katrina."

Then she guided them into the dressing rooms.

### CHAPTER FOUR

Thomas returned a moment later. I had almost forgotten he was my Watcher now. How strange it felt to be attended by someone other than Quinn.

"All the Watchers are here—two inside, three of us outside."

"Thank you, Thomas. They can watch the girls, but I want to be at the Council rooms."

"Your father left orders for me to keep you here!"

I gave him a withering look that stopped him in his tracks. "Shall I go alone, or will my Watcher be going with me?"

On our way to the Council chambers, I noticed there were now several guards posted around Luena's quarters, including specially trained palace guard—vampire guards—whom I recognized as ones we had brought with us. Father was already talking strategy with Philepe. Gunter and Quinn were huddled with them, pointing at maps and discussing final details.

"I need to speak with you, Father."

"Thomas, what did I tell you?"

"She's your daughter, sir. She was determined to come with or without me."

I saw Quinn hide a smile as if acknowledging he knew just what Thomas was going through.

"All right, you're here now, what is it?"

"What of Damien, Father? He hasn't been implicated in this, and we have no proof he's involved. All we know is he was out there in the forest when we were attacked, nothing more."

"Why are you defending him now? You're the one who called him a traitor in the first place. He's being guarded; we have no time to deal with him or his sister now. Either make yourself useful or go back to your room."

Why was I defending him? Was I really that gullible? If Luena was knee-deep in this, why wouldn't he be? They were so close...or were they? I had to admit I was confused by him, the way he was the other night. Father was right, of course; there was no time to worry about him now. This might be all over before breakfast, if we could still surprise them.

As parties arrived at the Council room, they were told of the recent developments and given their assignments, then sent to be armory to draw weapons, as needed and were told to gather at the gate. Everyone was organized and on task as the gravity of the situation sunk in. We were split up into two different assignments. Most were going to the encampment in the forest, with a smaller group, including Thomas, Quinn, and myself, going through the shed entrance, our orders were to clear out the rooms and corridors as we went. Vampires first in of course, we'd check with all our senses, divide up as needed, and with luck meet Father's party at the river.

Father's forces raced out the west gate. Ours ran together to the back wall and to the weapons shed. Quinn unlocked the door and we charged in. The spears had held, the sliding pallet closing off the entrance to the underground tunnels was still in place. Quinn and Thomas dislodged them and pushed the pallet aside with a thud. I fully expected fledglings to pour out; we neither saw nor sensed a thing.

"This is a bad sign," I said under my breath.

Philepe and Gerhardt headed down the stairs, and I went next.

"The girls were in a room off the corridor on the right, but the fledglings came from the center archway," I pointed straight ahead.

With our swords at the ready, we started forward. Quinn and Thomas were behind me with torches.

"Ricardo, you and Momar go into the last corridor," directed Philepe.

We moved cautiously but quickly forward, checking the many side rooms. Suddenly the corridor opened up into a huge circular room with arched doorways all the way around it. We heard the sounds of boots coming from a corridor on our left and braced for a fight. We were relieved when Ricardo came through the opening.

"Anything?" he asked.

"Not yet," replied Philepe

"Now what?" Gerhardt asked.

Before we could answer, I cried out, "They're coming!" They poured out of each of the corridors across from us, yelling and hissing, weapons drawn. Ricardo and Momar took positions left, we stayed right.

"Don't let them get behind us!" yelled Philepe.

We started mowing them down right and left. The fledglings were not well trained, but they were strong, and there were so many of them, there appeared to be no end to their numbers. They were as fast as we were, but our superior training would hopefully allow us to make quick work of them. We heard someone yelling orders to them from out of the darkness, but even with my vampire vision, I couldn't quite make him out. The Watchers had come into the room with torches. Once skirmish had begun, the torches were abandoned, tossed about on the floor. Now they were making the room glow and casting shadows of the fight on the walls of the room. We met the fledglings head on and after a few minutes of intense fighting, their numbers dwindled and they finally stopped coming through the archways. Two of the crazed attackers charged me from the front, and one came at me from my left. I leapt, executing a high, double footed kick, hitting the larger one square in the chest. Then as he fell to the ground, I used him as a springboard, turned in midair, and with a twist reached out, and sliced the second across the throat. I had seconds to land and duck before piercing a third through the heart. As I turned to finish off the fledging that had been the recipient of my kick, I found he had risen, but before he could flex his sword arm, Quinn lopped off his head.

"I was coming to save you. And once again I see you could save yourself," he panted, drenched with sweat.

"Sorry to spoil your fun. Let's get the rest, and maybe I'll even save one for you."

"You're on."

Our swords clanged as we engaged two more fledglings, and then shortly two more went down.

"Go back, go back," the leader yelled over his shoulder as he ran through the archway directly across from the one we had come through. The last of the fledglings retreated into whatever corridor was closest to them.

"We can't let them get away!" yelled Philepe.

We directed two Watchers stay and dispatch the dead by beheading, while the rest of us charged on. From what we could tell, only six remained alive, including the one who seemed to be the leader.

"We'll have to split up," I shouted as I ran.

Ricardo and Momar went left, Philepe and Gerhardt went straight, and I went right.

"We have to catch them before they get to the river!" I yelled to Quinn and Thomas.

I took a deep breath and sensed the two on our side were still ahead.

"They're close."

I sensed how close just in time to duck as one jumped out of an opening on my right. Quinn quickly swung his sword and split the fledgling's head open. As he fell, Thomas divided his crushed skull from his shoulders.

"One more!" I yelled.

I could smell water now. The river wasn't far, and as expected, the corridor opened onto the bank of the river. I could see brush moving on the other side of the rushing water.

Without thinking I leapt across the water in one stride and ran after the fledgling through the brush. I slowed, trying to sense where he had gone. It was then I realized I was alone, having forgotten Quinn and Thomas would be forced to find their own way across the river. My enemy was close; I could smell him. Then from above, he dropped right on me. He knocked me down and my sword flew out of my hand. We wrestled on the ground; the fledgling's eyes wild with the look of a rabid dog whose intent was to tear out my throat. Now the impossibly strong fingers found my throat and began to squeeze. I thrashed and fought, but the fledgling continue to squeeze. My vision narrowed, and I began to see bright flashes. Just as I was about to lose hope, I saw two hands grab the fledgling's head and twist. The crack of vertebrae breaking exploded in the night. The fingers released as the fledgling fell away. I closed my eyes and I took several gasping breaths. I opened them expecting to see Philepe or Gerhardt; I was shocked at the face I saw where the fledgling had been.

"Damien..." I croaked. "What are you doing here?"

"Saving you, what else? You didn't think you could have all this fun without me, did you?"

"Well, thank you," I said, as he kicked the body off of my legs and helped me up.

"I have to speak to you. I can't stay here. Everyone will think I'm part of this plot, but I swear to you, I wanted no part of it. It's my sister's doing. Luena is a truly evil being."

I opened my mouth to protest, he put his face close to mine, "We don't have much time, so please hear me out. That day when your party was attacked, I tried to get there to stop it, but I was too late. I did, however, kill the few Volator that got away from your father and Philepe, and their leader; you're safe from them." He stopped, listening, "They're coming, I must go. Katrina, I'll find you in the New World. Please believe I'd never harm you or your father."

Then he put his hands on my shoulders.

"You believe me don't you?"

I looked into his eyes and I knew I did.

"Yes," I whispered. "Yes I do."

He pulled me close and kissed me, and then he was gone. For a moment I thought I had dreamed it all, but the body at my feet was real enough. I dispatched his head just as Quinn and Thomas trotted up.

"You're late again," I gloated.

"I guess so," Quinn grinned. "I'm getting used to it."

We laughed and headed back to the river to meet up with the others. We stopped at the edge and used the cool water to clean up, washing off the sweat and blood from the cuts and gashes that, because we were vampires, would heal in a day. The Watchers were not so lucky of course; their injuries would take days, even weeks to heal.

Today the ten of us had killed forty, and Philepe told us the leader should have looked familiar because it turned out he was Luena's Watcher, Edgar. That explained why no one ever saw him anymore.

We heard the sound of horses and soon the rest of our group galloped up to us.

Philepe yelled, "Fredrik what took you so long?"

We all laughed. My father explained the cave system was a maze of interconnected tunnels, and during the fight we had killed twenty-five. After they dispatched the fallen fledglings, they'd gone from room to room to make sure the cave was completely cleared out. During this exercise, they came across three captives, men who had been abducted from villages far in the north. Strange disappearances had been rumored in that area for years. The captives had been held to provide fresh blood for the fledglings and the three rescued had been part of a much larger group that ebbed and waned as captives died and were replaced. The men were then told not to fear us, because all the fledglings had been killed and we would insure they would be safely escorted back to their villages.

I knew I must tell Father what Damien had told me about the Volator. But I was suddenly too exhausted for the effort.

"Let's head back," Father ordered. "Our work is done here."

We all agreed. Then Father reached out his arm and pulled me up behind him on his horse. .

"Well done, daughter. Well done."

I wrapped my arms around his waist and squeezed him to me as tightly as I could. A huge smile spread across my face as tears welled in my eyes. He was proud of me, and that meant everything.

### About the Author

 Elizabeth Loraine

I always knew I was supposed to write a book someday but as my family grew; my artistic bent was fulfilled through interior design, painting and garden design work. Now, as my son and daughter left home and I left commercial design and painting, I found I had more time on my hands for ignored creative desires.

I have been a lifelong fantasy fiction fan and for years devoured books that depicted vast worlds, populated by heroic characters. But a particular focus of my reading enjoyment for many, many years has been vampires and vampire lore. My passion for the subject, you could say, has spanned the 'Bellas; from portrayals of them by Bella Lugosi to books about them featuring Bella Swan.

Although I found their world exciting, filled with romance and adventure, somehow at **'The End'** , I always wanted to know more. Vampires, after all, we know are long lived; where had they come from; where had they been; what had they done; what had then seen? I longed to know their timeline and history.

From that curiosity and those questions, my creative side picked up a pen, a notebook and out came The Royal Blood Chronicles. These books feature young, strong, self-reliant, intelligent, interesting woman as lead characters. No wimpy women victims allowed here.

Continue following Katrina. Enjoy her vampire past and look forward to the exploits in her future.

Elizabeth Loraine
For updates, excerpts and more about the author check out: Elizabeth Loraine on facebook or

www.royalbloodchronicles.com and

<http://www.elizabethloraine.com/>

**Books by Elizabeth Loraine** :

**Royal Blood Chronicles Series**

 Katrina - the Beginning

 The Protectors

 The Dark Prince

 Cain – the Quest

 Bloodline

 Legacy

Redemption

**Royal Chronicles Short Stories**

 Quinn – a Watchers Story

 Marcella – Vampire Mage

**Phantom Lives Series**

 Collier

 Power

**Other Books**

 Lillian – A Vampire Tale
