 
Vampire Hire

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Curse of the White Werewolf

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By Rod Seeber

Smashwords Edition

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Published By

Rod Seeber on Smashwords

Copyright 2011 by Rod Seeber

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Table of Contents

Aurelia's Gift

Demon Scourge

Aurelia Feeds

Parson Arrives

Battle of Wits

Last Goodbye

Aurelia's Gift

In the cold dark European winter of 1351 alongside the severely depleted population of mortals, the world's vampire population would begin a slow recovery from the dreaded Black Death as it was to become known. Who could have possibly foreseen a human based plague would nearly see the demise of the continents apex predator, the Vampires. In the relentless quest for unrivalled dominance of the night world the tables have once more turned to witness all the ancient powerbases reshuffled. Insidious entities such as Demons and Werewolves are now set to become a far greater threat to all inhabitants of the nightworld. However, just as many times previously the staunch resilience of the Vampires will see a rebuilding of their undeniable thirst for a solitary and absolute dominance of the darkness and of course their human prey. Indeed over time, all fortuitously gained advantages achieved by their equally determined adversaries of the night will be reclaimed. Either in open combat or when least expected, under the cover of the darkness. If survival decrees that ancient traditions are to be abandoned. Then so be it, because from now on throughout old Germany and the remainder of Europe all the dirty deeds of the night will ultimately belong to...Vampire Hire!

'Please, please Valdrek come back down from the ceiling. You know it always takes longer with the gargoyles, we promise not to keep you waiting too much longer' Igor exclaimed. However it was all to no avail. Harboring an insatiable yearning for his next feast Valdrek was feeling rather impatient tonight! Swiftly he now departed via the open window back to his beloved Carmilla and the grand gothic castle vampire lair called home. He could no longer resist an unrelenting desire for a taste of fresh succulent blood and would soon feast. Always frustrated, Igor, the alchemist to the undead openly questioned 'Why are vampires always so impetuous when they frequent this fine establishment if we can't meet their needs instantly. We never experience such problems with the Werewolves or Zombies' Simple truth was Valdrek desired the sensation of a cold misty night's breeze in his face. He always laughed at the irony 'It makes me feel alive' although of course such consciousness could never be truly experienced again! Not that Valdrek minded, after all he has been a graduate of the undead for a number of centuries now!

From afar he has curiously watched on as the many generations of his home village have over a time gradually become decimated by the numerous plagues ravaging chaos on the mortals. Until now a defiant Valdrek has always reveled in the fact that not one of these human based viruses could ever remotely affect him. This was of course until the unsettling emergence of The Black Plague. The resulting deaths from within his tightly formed nest of the undead have now forewarned him to the fact vampires are also now susceptible to the ravages of such catastrophic afflictions. Somehow though Valdrek possessed an inner strength, well beyond the unrelenting grasp of the deadly sickness. With so much age to his name this indiscriminate ailment that was equally bestowed upon vampires and the living alike could not touch him. His endeavor was far too strong, far too ancient in its origins. His insatiable thirst for the nightworld was just too salacious to ever succumb to a deadly parasite of the flesh.

Remorsefully, they're many were times when a helpless Valdrek watched on as the infected members of his lair withered away to a hardly recognizable shell of their former glory. Undoubtedly destined to remain in the obscurity of the afterlife forevermore. In his weaker moments he occasionally contemplated a desire a to join them. It was the thought of being the last survivor of his kind that terrified him most! The suppressed last portion of his humanity remained strong enough to realize a solitary existence is an unfulfilled nightmare never to be escaped! His existence was an undeniable circumstance, resembling the unity of hungry wolves hunting in a pack. Far beyond mortal comprehension is the ever present yearning for a vampire to be amongst that of its own unique breed.

He silently envied the way the living blissfully accepted the suns burning rays onto their bodies without harm. For Valdrek this alone was enough to create a lust for revenge on all the mortals or soon to be dead as he preferred to phrase it. The beaming light of the glorious full moon above was an obvious warning tonight the wise should be especially conscious of the threat of werewolves. Valdrek was aware of at least two ill-fated vampires who recently have been taken by these tormented half human beasts during a full moon. It was even rumored that one of these ill-fated blood drinkers was actually flying at the time? Perhaps just a little too low on a full moon it seems!

Anxiously waiting for Valdrek's return an eager to please Carmilla fastidiously began her preparations for their next feast. A farmer's beautiful virgin daughter named Aurelia who foolishly after nights arrival had strayed beyond the safety of the farm house. Although Valdrek had departed the grand castle's lair many hours before her next offering was captured, Carmilla remained confident he would be able to identify the scent of fear in this innocent young virgin's woman's blood, even from a distance. A self confessed connoisseur of mortal blood Valdrek always remarked how he could distinctly taste unbridled fear in a distraught victim's anxiety filled blood. It was positively refreshing when compared to that of a willing victims taste! In the waiting Carmilla's mind there was no doubt he would faithfully follow the alluring scent of terror wafting through the night's air and soon return home. Hastily she now prepared the unconscious Aurelia by adorning her body with the remnants of their previous victims. It was a wonderful concoction of blood sweat and tears featuring a just a hint of decayed flesh for good luck. This liquid appetizer was soon enthusiastically sprayed all over her naked young body. No part left would be left unattended as next Carmilla proudly now strung up her hapless victim to a vertical position with both arms spread out wide. Ever so pleased with her detailed efforts, Carmilla felt certain her attention to detail would be rewarded! Valdrek would undoubtedly chose her to accompany him on the next journey to the town where they would veraciously feast upon the living right up until the minutes before daybreak.

The other subordinate vampires of the lair understood she was second only to Valdrek. Meaning if any grievous misfortune was to somehow fall upon him, without any challenges she would be the chosen one to steadfastly continue on this proud vampire lair's future. During her many hundreds of years age, Carmilla had proven to the other vampires time and time again she was also a very skilled and powerful entity of the underworld. She could undoubtedly be relied upon to bravely take charge in a time of crisis. With so much gathered knowledge within, Carmilla could take the time to make an offering to Valdrek complete perfection in its presentation. There were no willing challengers amongst the remaining subordinates possessing the power to overthrow her and feast upon the offering before their master had done his work first. The lower ranking members of the clan could normally venture out to quench their insatiable desire for a blood feast with the blessing of Valdrek and Carmilla. However tonight was a full moon and a survival curfew strictly stood in place. If this disease ridden clan was to continue its existence and once again flourish, all members would be required to adhere to the overall group strategies set in place.

In fact this is what made the unexpected offering of the tender sweet young virgin named Aurelia such a wonderful treat. Unforeseen, her foolish presence in the woods surely would have gone unnoticed if not for Carmilla's exquisite ability to discover any new wandering prey from great distances away. It had only been by sheer chance that as Carmilla circled the nearby surrounds of their gothic castle home checking for the presence of prowling werewolves one last time before the undeniable scent of a virgin woman briefly gained her attention. The strong aroma of human flesh from the forest beckoned all hunting instincts in such a manner she was overwhelmingly compelled to further investigate. Then be so fortunate to be able to offer such a favored gift to her beloved master, the righteous Valdrek. So very rarely does a hunter of the night discover such a precious offering as a sweet virgin for the taking! Observing the absolute perfection of this salubrious gift she could not help but consider if it is at all possible for a vampire to be blessed? If so, then surely this would be defined as a blessing.

Slow minutes had ticked over into hours as an impatient Carmilla decided that perhaps a gentle cut to the flesh of their perfect victim may be required to lure the elusive Valdrek back to the lair just that bit quicker. A proud Carmilla longed to embrace the full admiration of her work by her master and of course partake in the draining of the beautiful specimen fastidiously prepared with such fine detail. Alerted to the disoriented sounds of a mortal returning to consciousness Carmilla fastidiously surveyed the slowly waking Aurelia. It was then decided a blood red rose strategically placed within her inviting black hair would be the final touch required to achieve undeniable perfection! An attentive Carmilla anxiously observed her unexpected gift to Valdrek regain full consciousness as then an alerted to her perilous predicament Aurelia began screaming in unbridled terror. Much to the dark hearted Carmilla's obvious pleasure. Thoroughly enjoying the entertainment Carmilla slowly teased her victim all over with her long dagger like fingernails. So sharp they could easily slice through the unblemished soft skin of Aurelia. 'Why do you scream my pretty' Carmilla playfully inquired. 'Because you're not the one I seek' came the unexpected reply to a surprised vampiress who was thoroughly intrigued by such a brash response.

'Who is it you are truly seeking then you foolish girl ....perhaps God?' a bemused Carmilla questioned as she ran her middle finger over Aurelia's blushing check. Attempting to coerce some blood to just under the surface of the skin in preparation of the first cut. 'I seek the master of the house, only he can save us' exclaimed a frightened Aurelia. 'How do you know I am not the one you seek?' Carmilla questioned the trembling soon to be victim. 'I am aware you're unable able to feast upon because I can see the blood lust in your eyes and if it were at all possible you would have surely finished me off by now' noticeably offended by Aurelia's lack of respect (and correct assumption) Carmilla swiftly retaliated by forcefully digging a sharpened fingernail deeply into the hapless sacrifice's cheek. Succulent deep red blood was easily drawn, however as a daring Aurelia had suspected there was to be no further action taken by Carmilla who now laughingly spoke out loud. 'You dare question my absolute authority as you remain shackled to within an inch of your pathetic frail life. Such fool hearted bravery is indeed a rare commodity but also a very foolish assumption that perhaps only a immature childish mind could possibly ever conclude' Carmilla slowly examined Aurelia's slender young body for its entire length. Silently attempting to reinforce her superiority over a surprisingly defiant victim.

'What could the master of this castle possibly want to hear from his next sacrifice that would be important enough for you to take such a chance?' asked an increasingly inquisitive Carmilla. 'We know you need us, we are aware your ranks are also decimated by the scourge of a disease unwilling to distinguish the living from the undead' replied an arrogant sounding Aurelia as she shied away from Carmilla's threatening glares of disapproval. Again a defiant Aurelia spoke out 'If we leave the town who will you feast upon? Tell me who? Who will remain in this castle once we are departed from your evil reach?' Offended and somewhat annoyed that one of the living would dare have the audacity to challenge their very existence Carmilla angrily swung around to Aurelia's unprotected neck. Menacingly displaying her wide open set of canine styled teeth she as then whispered 'Don't ever question the authority of undead, we have been roaming the Earth since the dawn of existence and we shall remain in this world long after the mortals departure you petulant child' In a threatening demonstration of a soon to be unleashed terror Carmilla briskly swept Aurelia's hair away from her neck. She then prepared to plunge her fangs deeply into the jugular vein to put a halt to this rebellious conversation once and for all. Amazingly as a final act of self preservation Aurelia now loudly screamed 'I will die for your master but not one of his subordinates'

Horrified at the brash honesty of Aurelia's rebellious words Carmilla recoiled back into the air then menacingly hovered from side to side while falsely laughing out loud to divert the truth of Aurelia's scorching sentiments. For it was true, she was without argument a loyal subordinate to older master vampire tilted Valdrek. Each member of the lair had a specific role within this unholy community of the night world, just who was this young mortal to dare tell her the order of things. Suddenly came the sound of well spoken words 'Who is it wishes to die specifically only by my guided hands on this night?' As next the impeccably dressed and ever charismatic Valdrek revealed his presence to the now silent Carmilla and a noticeably relieved Aurelia. 'Who do we have here Camilla and how has this young virgin mortal been able to rival you so much and seemingly so easily? Carmilla please note I truly do cherish the restrained anger in your eyes' Remaining focused on Aurelia's beautiful face while gliding past a noticeably more subdued Carmilla, a closer to the shackled offering Valdrek proclaimed 'You are indeed a thoroughly interesting example of mortality! I can small the smell the fear in your blood, yet I can also sense you are a willing participant, how can this possibly be?' Thoroughly perplexed, Valdrek further inquired 'I need to know this before I drain the life from your beautiful young untarnished body'

Daring to glance directly into Valdrek's dead eyes Aurelia stated 'My fear is that my life will be lost before my cause can become known, yes I arrive here as a willing sacrifice' In obvious anger Carmilla now forcefully spoke over Aurelia 'That's a lie! You would not be here if I didn't apprehend you in the woods!' A laughing Aurelia turned her attention away from Valdrek then asked Carmilla a question 'Did you find me or did I find you? Examine the scalp under my hair and you will identify the rabbit's blood I used to lure you to me!' Astonished and amused by the sheer audacity this mortal had displayed in the face of certain death. Valdrek abruptly ordered Carmilla to leave the chamber so he could converse more with this intriguing human possessing a combination of overpowering scents and insolence leaving Valdrek absolutely fascinated and wishing to know more. Feeling betrayed by the sudden change of circumstances a retreating Carmilla spitefully cried out 'You are only intoxicated by the sacrificial elixir I especially prepared for you, she is nothing special kill her now!' Annoyed at Carmilla's undisciplined display of disrespect Valdrek harshly chastised her by ordering her not to return tonight. Upon being left alone with his amusing young captive Valdrek decided to scrutinize his intended sacrifice a little further.

Under Aurelia's careful observation Valdrek marched from left then to right in purposeful thought as finally he stopped to gaze into her uncertain eyes 'I can smell that you recently transformed into womanhood, what else can I discover about you I wonder? Tell me if you really did chose to be here, I must know why' Gratefully Aurelia understood this was perhaps the chance she had been patiently waiting for. She now began a careful explanation of why she purposely vacated the sanctuary of the farmhouse in full knowledge her movements would quickly be noticed by the darker elements of the night then pounced upon! 'I have come to hire you sir' Astonished by such a bewildering proposal Valdrek instantly proclaimed he had never heard of such a preposterous proposal. It was never imagined a mortal could possess the audacity to try manipulate one the undead 'How dare you so easily assume you could possibly trade in the currency I desire' At this point Aurelia confidently answered Valdrek's aggrieved words 'I know what it is that you lust for sir and yes I shall offer myself as the willing form of currency you require. My flesh, my blood and my soul are unequivocally allocated to you, now and forever more' Curiously interested, although a little unsure of the exact terms of this perplexing hire arrangement Valdrek further questioned 'If I take your life how could you possibly know I honor the terms of such an arrangement?'

Aurelia confidently replied 'I know deep down you're a creature of disciplined morals and that it is your unique circumstance commanding you to prey on the nearby townsfolk' Amused at the obvious attempt of flattery Valdrek inquired why a mortal would possess such a maligned faith in one of the undead? Unexpectedly, Aurelia's heartfelt response would suddenly rekindle a long buried memory that Valdrek was blissfully unaware anyone else, either living or dead held knowledge of. 'You are correct, normally it would be certified madness for any other mortal as you call us to converse with you of a painful memory from the past and then expect to survive the conversation. Valdrek I must inform you that many years ago it was my Grandmother you loved with all your heart and soul' Unsure whether to be angry or grateful for what he was about to hear Valdrek ordered Aurelia to disclose the identity of this mortal who once possibly held sway over him? 'My Grandmother was the original lady of this castle, you may recall her title was The Countess Beatrice and rather than to live a life without you regrettably she took her own life '

Displaying just a hint of remorse Valdrek cautiously replied 'At first I questioned your ability to disclose the truth, but yes, sadly I remember her well. However if you are aware of this you will also know that I annihilated every living member of her family in a merciless act of revenge for what they cruelly did to us! Our romance was truly something rare that possibly only occurs once every thousand years! Foolishly I did open heart to one of the living, although I should have known we were ultimately doomed to failure. To this day I still walk these empty chambers desperately trying not to recall the only one living person ever to mean more to me than perhaps my very own existence' Trying hard to suppress buried emotions Valdrek cautiously inquired 'Aurelia my dear, how could you possibly hold such knowledge of our sacred romance?' Aurelia now violently wrestled her shackled arms in silent protest to her vulnerable predicament. Unmoved Valdrek's attentions remained wholely focused on what her imminent answer would be? Sensing a subdued portion of humanity within him Aurelia chose only to gently whisper 'Look at the locket on my chest' With his curiosity sparked Valdrek swooped across the room even closer to Aurelia as next he lifted up the locket from between her exposed breasts. Her pure fresh breath instigated the memories of long lost romance. For two seconds he secretly reminisced while closing his eyes to Aurelia's gaze.

'Yes it is the very same locket I gave her on the night I proclaimed my undying love for her. You must tell me how you could possibly be in possession of this trinket, how?' Valdrek demanded as painfully he relived the lost hours searching for it on and near her lifeless body situated at the bottom of the cliff, where she had chosen to end her sorrowed life. Aware of his heartbreak Aurelia considered the buried emotions Valdrek tried so hard to suppress. Carefully she proceeded to inform him of how on the fateful night of her Grandmothers death she was secretly taken to the town and hidden away from his predicted wrath. Valdrek tried to recall all his enraged actions on that evening so long ago. Only to finally concede to this day some parts still remained a blur of contempt. Sensing an unusual hold over the disenchanted vampire, Aurelia believed this was now the most opportune time to request the terms of the hire arrangement. Aurelia went on to now explain her adopted family secretly raising her up to this point, were suffering the unrelenting wrath of a vengeful Werewolf as never before experienced! This unusual albino werewolf had undoubtedly migrated from the high up Nordic countryside in relentless search of what so unwaveringly burdened its soul. Valdrek's very many years of existence added up to a comprehensive knowledge of one of the vampire's main rivals known as 'Werewolf's' Yet even he had never been alerted to the presence of such an unusual adversary.

Intrigued, he questioned Aurelia about the circumstances as to why such a mythical creature had come to curse her adopted family? It was soon revealed this repressed anomaly of nature was for many decades imprisoned by the superstitious Icelandic villagers of the Hekla Volcano territory. They believed while the creature remained under merciless constraints and was subjected to regular torture sessions the volatile volcano mountain would remain subdued. Years previously when Aurelia's adopted father ventured out to the far off mountain range on a mining expedition he discovered the unnerving situation of the chained up tormented human form of the werewolf. The caged man with no future hope had solemnly pleaded with him to end his misery. Suffering under duress the weeping creature pleaded and repeatedly begged for the explorer to quickly end his miserable life. However the promise of certain riches situated in a nearby mountain range was to see Aurelia's father succumb to the bribery of the villagers. The plethora of cruel sufferings maintained by the hands of his captors continued on for what turned out to be another **twelve years** until finally an eruption would see the Werewolf's shackles weaken enough for a successful escape. Once free, the aggrieved creature quickly set upon the revenge killing of all the merciless villagers.

The rare albino creature born of the full moon then swore a solemn oath to the mountain. It would not rest until eradicating all family lines ever to walk the Earth of the heartless man who so easily turned his back on him while lost in the promise of riches. Visibly distraught Aurelia went on to further explain her adopted family's unsettling dilemma of whether to stay and bravely fight or to flee in search of the new worlds over the other side of the globe. The exceedingly unusual curse of the white werewolf absolutely fascinated Valdrek who quietly held an admiration for this sacred solitary creature, proudly defying any conventional form of existence when compared to all the other predictable ghouls of the darkness. A wary Valdrek carefully inquired about the terms of any agreed upon hire arrangement requiring his services for either protection against or the killing of such a rare creature of the night. The simple truth was had it not been for Beatrice's locket hanging around Aurelia's neck she would have been deceased an hour ago. Just as Carmilla so blatantly desired. However the deceptive scent of lost memories combined with rekindled emotions of a love long lost was to see Valdrek thoughts unusually clouded.

Conflicted emotions torn apart, here Valdrek stood, strangely refusing an all too easy feast and for what? To foolishly reignite painful memories promptly buried decades ago! Then there was the unprecedented conundrum of whether to eliminate a true freak of nature? Valdrek found himself forced to question whether he should kill an unjustly burdened freak scorned by not only the living but also those of the darkened nightworld. Besides how and where was it officially decreed a vampire was destined to be not only the killer of all the living, but also the hired executioner of a truly unique entity which in any other circumstances would be greatly admired for an extremely unconventional existence. Realizing Valdrek was fast becoming lost in deep thought Aurelia loudly screamed 'I am the payment, my soul, my life and my pure blood. This is how the story is destined to end. You must accept the terms and take my life now. My heart beckons me, surely that's why Beatrice allowed me to live. Understand, my life is valuable enough that you will accept the terms and end this curse that has besieged the depleted remnants of an unmorally forsaken family! I do this for them and for the unbridled love they bestowed upon me. I too do this in the knowledge that once the werewolf extinguishes my family's blood lines it will then wreck havoc on another hapless community, then another until finally you are ultimately left with no real choice other than to eliminate this abomination of nature as eventually your very own source of food retreats to beyond lands too far for you to feed on!'

'I want you to promise to accept the terms so I can die in the knowledge the love and sacrifice of my new family will see me reunited with them in a glorious afterlife! Promise me now, you must promise me now, in fact I dare you to look at the locket and refuse me!' Angered by the heart rendering ultimatum inflicted upon him Valdrek flew into a verbal tirade aimed at the forces behind such a cruel destiny. Looking to the suddenly thundering heavens above Valdrek cursed all the ironies born of the days from yesteryear and how they could inexplicably return to vengefully haunt even the undead! It was a deplorable no win situation for him as now after more than a thousand years this was to be only the second time he was to feel anything considered to be similar to that of a mortals thoughts and needs. 'Take me now, take me now I beg you' a desperate Aurelia hollered as Valdrek suddenly migrated to within an inch of her warm breath. Looking deeply into her tearful eyes he gently flicked Aurelia's beautiful jet black hair away from her slender young neck in preparation for his fangs to finally plunge deeply into the bartered blood supply. Then for the first time ever a remorseful Valdrek sunk the sharpened tools of his profession into the soft flesh of his waiting prey. Aurelia noticeably grimaced in pain then sighed in delight. Whether it was out of relief or pleasure? Valdrek remained uncertain as inexplicably he once more found himself lost in the inspired memory of the only mortal he ever loved, her Grandmother Beatrice.

Demon Scourge

Surprisingly what happened next would see the apparently foregone conclusion of Aurelia's selfless sacrifice never to make it to full fruition. Unexpectedly a visibly distressed Carmilla hurriedly burst into the chamber declaring the castles grounds had been breached by rampaging green demons! Immediately alert to the dangerous threat the feeding Valdrek withdrew his blood red fangs from the nearly unconscious, Aurelia. Who was soon left frustratingly crying out for the keys to her shackles. Acknowledging her justified plight a retreating to the impending fight Valdrek, obliged by throwing the keys to her restraints. More than jealous, Carmilla also withdrew her presence. But not before taking note Valdrek had unsuccessfully fulfilled the hire agreement of Aurelia's termination. Once free of the restraining shackles a disorientated Aurelia tried to run for escape, only to find her severely weakened body unwilling to cooperate as next she fell to the floor unconscious.

Together Valdrek and Carmilla swiftly flew up the castle's main stairwell then out to freedom via the open top guard's observatory tower. Upon safely exiting the lair's confines and free of the immediate danger they briskly formulated their retaliation plan. 'Carmilla we need to gain the advantage from behind, upon reaching them you must forcefully dig your fingers into their eye sockets while simultaneously biting into the neck. Then after you have startled the demon fiend you must instantly wrench the neck sideways to break it' Then without fear or hesitation the female vampire warrior that is Carmilla faithfully proclaimed 'Lead the way Master' Flying back down to reclaim the overthrown castle resentfully both vampires despondently observed the burning fallen bodies of their comrade's Frederick and Waldemer. In the main courtyard came the unsettlingly sight of the freshly decapitated body of the much loved Wilhelmina awkwardly slumped in the doorway. Moments later they now observed the trailing shadows of their rampaging adversaries entering further down into the castles hallways. 'Master we are only five remaining we must act quickly!'

A worried Valdrek feared their already decimated nest would soon be cast off to 'the land of never was' as strategically he advised Carmilla it was imperative she must break off in another chosen direction so together they could mount a formidable attack from more than one angle. 'I will sweep through the ground floor while you enter from above. Remember your first attacking move must be to blind them' Unsure of the marauding green demons numbers Valdrek would have to rely on clandestine movements to achieve success! Totally focused while inspired by bloodthirsty revenge on behalf of his fallen flock, speedily Valdrek flew into the castles main entrance seeking out his combatants. His search was assisted by a highly sensitive intuition indicating he must delve down deep into the castle's cellar. There could be no doubting some of these despicable green demons would instinctively migrate down to the darkness of the cellar. Cautiously descending down the damp murky spiral stairwell Valdrek soon encountered the distinctly putrid scent of a demon recently passing through. Most probably in search of coffins to raid! Desiring revenge without mercy, silently Valdrek landed to his feet upon reaching the old stone arched doorway entering the cellar.

Distorted heavy breathing of a nearby demon instantly warned him to the immediate certain danger. Next he cautiously entered the spacious dark cellar room consisting of numerous stone pillars strategically placed to support the mammoth stone structure above. Echoed trickling sounds of water could be heard running down the farthest of the walls with a flickering torchlight gently swaying close by. The demon's next movement caused a disturbance of the torchlight. Aware, Valdrek now began to stalk the unwelcome intruder. Assisted by an experienced hunter's stealth, from pillar to pillar Valdrek silently maneuvered directly to where his trusted instincts took him. As a seasoned demon hunter he would soon be in the perfect position to launch a fatally violent attack. Again, flickering torchlight indicated nearby movement as patiently Valdrek clung close to the stone pillar chosen to start the offensive. Sensing the moment to attack was near Valdrek slowly hovered up into the air from where he stood, moments later his unsuspecting prey passed by. Then with a flash of movement so fast his staggered image remained only just visible he lunged forwards onto the green skinned demon's back. Unleashing a mounting rage at the deplorable attack on his home, without mercy Valdrek savagely ripped out the surprised creature's lizard like eyes with his razor sharp fingernails.

Supremely confident of total victory Valdrek determinedly sunk his sharpened fangs into the unprotected neck of his blinded adversary. Proceeding on with the installment of his planned attack Valdrek ferociously then tore away at the exposed main artery. Even though to a vampire, demons blood is reminiscent to the taste of acid! Intending to spitefully finish off the atrociously scented creature Valdrek violently inserted his thumbs deeply into the ears then wrenched its oversized head sideways. A deadly maneuver accompanied by a symphony of breaking vertebrae confirming this intruder was well and truly dead. Aware time was of the essence without haste Valdrek swiftly flew back up the dark winding stone stairwell to continue the fight. Thoroughly defeated, his foe fell to the cellar floor to soon dissolve within its own acidic bodily fluids. Reaching the top of the spiral stairwell Valdrek briskly flew out of the stairwell only to unexpectedly impact another member of these green demon attackers. Stunned by the powerful impact, both participants of this unforeseen occurrence were instantly knocked to the ground and momentarily dazed. This unpredicted development was to the more agile Valdrek's advantage as faster he recovered full ability of all his senses. He was also now aware the surprised demon had unwillingly dropped a blood soaked stake obviously used in the demise of Frederick and the others.

Infuriated at this provocative sight Valdrek flew up to the ceiling then just as quickly pushed himself back downwards at such a pace the hapless demon never knew what hit him! Knocked flat to its back the once again dazed demon remained barely conscious. Once more the attacking Valdrek swooped, however this time he was in the possession of the already bloodied wooden weapon. His sweeping attack would see him ruthlessly thrust the stake sideways into the hapless demons forehead with such force it travelled all the way through the skull. Valdrek abruptly finished off his angered charge by using the stake as a handle to wind off the shattered remnants of the wounded demons head! In a manner similar to its predecessor the defeated creature instantly began to dissolve into a shuddering puddle of its own bubbling putrid smelling bodily fluids. Alerted to the horrified screams of a distressed Carmilla, Valdrek quickly flew up the grand stairway to the first level. Echoing shrieks of bone chilling screams continued on as Valdrek ever so carefully approached one of the master bedrooms. Here he would discover two large green demons aggressively restraining a struggling Carmilla down on a grand four poster lace curtain bed. There could be no doubting their intentions. With backs to him, they were foolishly unaware of his presence. Such an amateur's act of ignorance convinced Valdrek this would be their ultimate downfall!

Observing their self centered flaw of tactics. Valdrek could not help but think to himself how similar to the human's lust that of the demon is when following pleasurable desires. His advantage would be to strike the first powerful blow, but he must be swift and decisive to achieve the maximum chaotic result. Valdrek believed if he could distract the unwanted intruders momentarily the courageous warrior that is Carmilla she would soon bravely return to the fight. Without delay, the decision was made to slice deeply into back legs of the closest offender to render his movements to a minimum. Again Valdrek the attacker would skillfully use his razor sharp fingernails to achieve a penetrating cut so severe it would violently rip apart the unsuspecting tendons and hamstrings. Next move would be to fly to the wall then bounce off at such a pace that before the second demon could possibly contemplate a reaction it would be abruptly knocked to the ground. Allowing Carmilla to rise up and insert herself into the physical engagement once more. Ready for action Valdrek lunged forwards to perfectly execute his task with such vigor he was also able to bite a section of cheek from the unsuspecting second demon he now tackled. Agonized the first demon instantly released its tightened grip on Carmilla as acknowledgement of the precision cuts Valdrek had mercilessly inflicted upon him.

Gratefully the second of the demons was now also no longer a direct threat to Carmilla after being hit with such thrust it clumsily tumbled off the bed to awkwardly land upside down. Valdrek the attacker continued on with his relentless foray to save Carmilla. Now with both demons forced onto the back foot the vengeful vampires combined their rage with no sense of mercy as they gouged, bit and cut their way to overcome the startled green demons. Overwhelmed, the two demons suffered greatly at the combined attack of two revenge driven vampires, hell bent on ending their wretched opponent's despicable existence. Continuous thrashings at the neck of the second demon would see him soon succumb to Valdrek's rage as Carmilla now dug her razor sharp fingernails into her chosen opponents face. Soon there would be enough loosened flesh for an incensed Carmilla to rip the face completely off the first demon! Four of the marauding demon intruders were now history. With an unknown total remaining there was no time for letting up in the quest to rid the ancient castle of these new invasive inhabitants. Unsure of the terms of the next battle a worried Valdrek also pondered the whereabouts of the other remaining resident vampires? Ragner, Adolpha and Enrica.

Recovered from her exhausting ordeal Carmilla hastily followed her glorious master higher up to the castles defensive guard towers where it was believed the final confrontation would occur. The dimly lit winding stone stairwell spiraled up to the highest parts of the castle where the answers to Valdrek's vexing questions would almost certainly be answered. Upon reaching the top of the lookout tower with Carmilla close behind he cautiously approached a stone arched doorway. He soon witnessed the arrival of the missing Ragner who was noticeably injured and distraught. A cautiously unsettled Valdrek suddenly realized the unnerving presence of a green festering welted hand around his barely conscious comrade's neck. Unsure whether to proceed and render assistance to his fallen comrade Valdrek intently watched on as next came the emotionally disturbing sight of a large wooden stake protruding out of the weary Ragner's chest! With all of his resolve now diminished Ragner's blood soaked body slowly slumped to ground. Subsequently erupting into a ball of flames inspired by the fires of hell. Confirming to the helplessly looking on Valdrek and Carmilla they had again lost another valued member of ever diminishing vampire's lair!

With only four remaining from the already previously disease weakened nest. This was indeed a perilously desperate situation seeking immediate resolution without any further casualties to the vampire's depleted ranks. Valdrek sternly ordered Carmilla to retreat back down the stairs for an assault under the cover of the night sky. Showing the upmost faith in her skills it was proclaimed she was to strike when it felt most appropriate. Unperturbed, Valdrek had fought demons with the feisty Carmilla in the past and knew she could hold her own against one adversary in a one on one skirmish. However this was now escalating into a bloodied war of attrition! Flying through the flames of a defeated Ragner, Valdrek burst out on the high guard's platform. Only to discover, again a number of exposed green demons attempting to unleash their hideous desires onto the two remaining female vampires, Adolpha and Enrica. The distraught recipients of this uninvited lust were currently **FOUR** overpowered by two demons with each now viciously ripping away at the last of all remaining clothing. Fuelled by unrepentant retribution Valdrek silently cursed these intruders, seemingly unwilling to retreat back to the gates of hell from where they had so hastily arrived. He could only hope Carmilla would be quick to rejoin this savage fight of survival for the lair.

Conceptualizing all that lay in front of him it now dawned on a solemn Valdrek the true underlying purpose of the unexpected attack of the lair. Cleverly, these scheming demons had adopted a diabolical strategy of either eliminating the vampires by close combat or by mischievously cross breeding. The demons were confident that self preservation would undoubtedly see some of the raped vampires maintaining a silent vigil of the result of their forced situation. Undoubtedly these silent victims would surely plan to kill the crossbred offspring immediately after birth. However to alleviate this maligned scenario the ever crafty demons would also seek to return and then abduct any impregnated individuals. Of course there was no ultimate guarantee's any the births would actually take? However to finally eliminate their dire enemy the vampires it was strategically worth attempting to manipulate all future outcomes! For Adolpha and Enrica with every unnerving second of the rampaging demons forcing themselves upon them came the dangerous and horrifying thought of unacceptable crossbreeding. Sadly if Valdrek ever became aware of such a disturbing occurrence he would be forced to ruthlessly execute any impregnated vampiress. Thus denying the offending demon spawn any chance of a beginning to life. Be it distorted or pure to either species no such maligned births could ever be condoned as "normal"

There could be no consideration given to taking a risk when it came to this transcending scenario! Death would be instantaneous for any recipient of cross contaminations, with no exceptions! It was imperative Vampire blood must always remain pure for guaranteed survival of the species. The true significance of this perilous situation now began to conflict Valdrek's lamented emotions as the realization of the possibility of having to kill one of his own sadly dawned on him. He now prepared to take flight and combat the demons that disturbingly may have already by this stage succeeded in their objective. For the green skinned demons all outcomes added up to a win win situation, because if they could not breed the vampires out of existence the resulting sacrificial elimination of the forcefully impregnated vampires would fortuitously mean there was one less of their kind to inhabit the night! Unbeknownst to Valdrek, on this god forsaken evening demon intruders all over Europe had begun an unprecedented major offensive. The end result being demon rape attacks taking place all throughout the lairs of the continent. Valdrek prepared to lunge to the closest demon on top of Enrica. His spirits were now suddenly lifted as he noticed an approaching Carmilla appear from the other end of the platform.

Once their multi pronged attack was initiated, together they would disperse the remaining last four green attackers then providing Enrica and Adolpha were able to assist it would finally be an even fight of four against four to a certain death! Ready for the fight Valdrek possessed extreme faith in the female vampires of his lair. Time after time they had previously demonstrated a dogged ability to overcome all obstacles to triumph in life or death struggles against quite often physically superior adversaries. Arriving closer to the area of attack Valdrek identified the screams of Enrica and Adolpha. However these were not weakened shallow screams of terror but in fact unsuppressed rage! Elevated sounds of her sisters under siege spurred on the fighting spirit within Carmilla by taking her high to air as she sought to increase the velocity of her first strike. Confident of her deadly aim Carmilla increased her speed so much so that when she vigorously impacted the four demons with such force. One hapless green intruder was instantly thrown over the guard's wall to a certain death below. Quickly back to his feet another of these green foes was destined to experience Carmilla's unrelenting vengeance! Meanwhile Valdrek would combat two more of these evil green beings!

In a determined demonstration of unresolved anguish over fallen comrades Carmilla swiftly repositioned herself on the platform walkway. She would permanently quash all the mischievous intentions of this repulsive individual intending to corrupt her breed's bloodlines. Without fear or hesitation the full rage of sweeping fists of fury from Carmilla soon began to take their toll as now a recuperated Adolpha also joined in. Then, side by side they would inflict a series of vicious wounds so traumatic that the defeated green demon spent its last dying moments pleading for mercy that was destined never to be! Looking to the other battle-taking place the victorious Vampiresses observed the skilled demon slayer Valdrek had already eliminated one of the intruders and was currently involved in a fight to the death with the last living green skinned demons. This was a particularly spiteful confrontation involving numerous physical exchanges of arms, legs and teeth. All aimed at gaining the advantage! Valdrek was well aware his surprisingly strong opponent would have been the nominated leader of the demon pack. To permanently rid him of the premises would take a considerable effort on his part. Once again they collided with both combatants aggressively displaying an arsenal of physical attributes in an attempt to unnerve each other.

The vibrantly bright red lizard eyes of the green skinned demon highlighted the vigor in which this personal battle of wits was being played out. Inspired by deadly resentment the two sworn enemies violently clashed with Valdrek seeking to bite deeply into the neck of the demon to initiate the death process. Staunchly defiant the green demon was equally determined to eliminate his skillful opponent by any and all means necessarily as it hurriedly searched for a wooden stake to gain the advantage. Aware of the demons deadly motives Valdrek surmised he could never allow the upper hand to be granted. He was desperate to remove the stake from the equation. Upon sighting the required device of death the demon dived on the weapon. However Valdrek was just as quick and kicked the demon's head with such force the acquired weapon was hastily dropped. Finally achieving the tactical advantage Valdrek grabbed the startled demons head. Meanwhile as the final battle raged on nearby, Carmilla and Adolpha carefully examined the castles grounds in search of other uninvited intruders. With no more invaders sighted the final battle of nightworld pride was currently taking place with no winner recognizable at this stage.

Frustratingly the smiling demon had somehow maneuvered out of Valdrek's concentrated lethal grip. Slightly flustered by the resourceful intensity of the demons resolve. There was no doubt in Valdrek's mind his demon opponent had survived numerous life or death conflicts with all types of creatures of the night. As the many battle scars on its body would attest to. This unrelenting warrior's stalemate needed to be broken! Valdrek soon decided he would need to take to the air then swoop down hard if he was to eventually win this deadly battle of wills. Observing Valdrek's eyes wander up to the night sky the wise to the fight demon averted Valdrek's planned actions by grabbing his black silk cape to halt any advantage. Instantly the demons proactive maneuver worked as a resentfully grounded Valdrek swung back around to try free himself of the demons grip. The indecisive momentum of this reflex maneuver was to see Valdrek abruptly flung against the platform's wall. Noticing the slightly off balance Valdrek could be pushed over the wall the aggressive demon continued to forcefully thrust the aggrieved vampire against the wall. Then, unexpectedly Valdrek valiantly relinquished his stance to allow himself to be taken over the edge. His plan was simple, grasp the demon and take him over with him. In an instant both combatants were airborne and rapidly plunging downwards to a waiting small cast iron garden picket fence.

Valdrek repeatedly tried to free himself of the demon's ever tightening grip on his cape. He desperately he needed to catch the sanctuary of the wind before they both soon impacted the fence. Amused at the failure of Valdrek's frivolous actions the spiteful demon leader began loud spine chilling laughter, apparently now accepting his demise. Time was fast running out as the insidious demon declared 'Today we both die vampire but our kind will rule the night forever while your kind ultimately fade away into the darkness of history, never to be spoken of again. We will win vampire, we will win!' In shocked belief that she was actually witnessing her masters demise Carmilla's heart dropped. Instinctively she flew to assist her falling leader. Albeit as she swiftly took flight in hope of his rescue she suddenly realized this heartfelt action was destined be too late save her master. It would be solely up to adrenaline fuelled Valdrek to free himself if he was to live past this night! Fortuitously the small sporadic gusts of wind sweeping into the flickering vampires cape delayed their fall to waiting spheres on top of the cast iron fence below.

Wildly thrashing fangs continuously missed their target as Valdrek tried one more valiant attempt at freedom. Violently swinging his head from side to side to strike the ever laughing demons face he could feel the demon begin to slowly lose its deadly grip on the black cape. Next Valdrek searching fangs managed to latch onto the close by demons nose! As his fangs inserted deeply into the demon's flesh Valdrek began savagely shaking his head until the traumatized bleeding nose completely separated from the demon's face. The immense pain involved was finally enough of a distraction for an increasingly worried Valdrek to shake himself free of his falling would be killer's fatal grip. Gratefully, rising gusts of wind slowly began to lift Valdrek upwards as finally he was completely free of the falling demon's unsettling display of laughter in the face of death. One second later Valdrek achieved enough uplift to begin a glorious rise upwards into the night as below the green demon violently struck the rusty cast iron fence. Impaling him from his head to his feet. Seconds later the broken body of the final demon began to breakdown within its own bodily fluids and would soon become a forgotten memory. His dark heart beating overtime Valdrek gratefully joined up with the close by Carmilla to return to the guard's platform where upon landing they curiously observed a trembling Enrica and Adolpha.

It soon became apparent the demons attempted impregnation raid had achieved some success going by the terrified incoherent ramblings of the violated lady vampire, Enrica. Muffled regrets sent shivers down the spines of all involved as they now came the realization of yet another unavoidable death. Recognizing the significance of the certain demise of her comrade by hers master's hands. Carmilla started to scream in vain at the impending loss of an old trusted friend who had so bravely survived the recent trauma of the Black Death, only to succumb to this cruel twist of fate. There was no denying the rape attack had been successful and that regrettably Valdrek as master of the lair would be forced to hastily end her existence! A distraught Adolpha quickly joined in a chorus of despair aimed at forcing the master Valdrek to reconsider any predetermined actions. Although, deep down they all knew there could to be no other acceptable alternative if the legacy of the pure blooded vampire was to forever continue. Then in one last act of decency and out of respect for his long time comrade, Valdrek announced he was to survey the grounds for any remaining demon intruders. Silently, this was the signal for last sentiments and goodbyes for all concerned.

Convinced that all the marauding green skinned demons had been fully eradicated from the castle grounds. Quietly he swooped down to collect one of the blood stained wooden stakes used in their vicious attack. Moments later he arrived back onto the guard towers platform where the despondent voices of Carmilla and Adolpha positioned themselves at the feet of their master. They then began to plead for mercy on behalf of the hapless Enrica who had been inserted into the nest of vampires some two hundred years ago now. Shattered at the thought of the looming execution solely by his hands Valdrek's dark heart sunk with the knowledge there could be no possible other way. Had this happened back when the nest was 32 strong maybe they could have tried to save her. However with the current population dangerously low. Regretfully there would be no spare hands to guard her or to feed her if she was to be locked away until the arrival of the maligned birth of a crossbred creature from hell. It was just not feasible to allow such a threat to the purity of the vampire's ancient bloodlines to embark on. Pure uncorrupted continuation of their species very existence mercilessly commanded instant death, even at such a sorrowful occasion. There could be no avoiding the arduous task at hand for the saddened Valdrek as now he avoided eye contact with Enrica.

With tears of regret flowing from her troubled eyes Enrica glanced up to the slowly approaching Valdrek, now opening his arms to confidently reassure her there was righteous love abound at the time of her death. Trembling in acceptance of her malevolent fate Enrica graciously rose to her feet. At this moment her undeniable beauty was not lost on Valdrek, who had for many days admired her from afar before stealing her from a travelling band of gypsy's, so many decades ago. Valdrek felt the same about all the females of his lair. They were each handpicked for not only their beauty but also for whom they previously were when they existed as mortals. From the very beginning Valdrek promised himself he would only allow strong individuals to share his uniquely unconventional dark world. This factor alone made the impending task so much harder as silently the two old friends embraced for the last time ever. Enrica held Valdrek tightly while gently whispering a heartfelt last request to remain on the platform until the morning sun rose above. Every part of Valdrek's breaking heart desired to allow her this one last simple request, but in the ultimate irony of a vampire's fate he knew that human nature would not allow her to stoically remain idle. Just waiting for a horrific demise consisting of excruciating pain and agony as the sun's rays tore her soft flesh apart and flames erupted from within.

There could be no doubting in this sacrificial situation the desire for self preservation would see her flee to either save herself or to try and save the tainted growing bastard child spawned within. Such an unprecedented joining of the two inhabitants of the nightworld via a pregnancy had never been contemplated before so there were no records of how long a gestational period would encompass? Deeming the moment called for one last act of kindness for his old friend Valdrek stated to her he could not allow such a slow grievous departure from this world as unbeknownst to her he then fastened his grip on the stake hidden at his back. Then came the whispered the words 'We will love you forever' as suddenly he trust the stake deeply into her chest. Upon completion of this forced act of regret came an unsettling shriek of terror simultaneously accompanied by an explosion of multi colored flames instantly erupting from the impaled night entity's now lifeless body as Valdrek stepped back to farewell an old friend goodbye. Moments later Enrica the grand vampiress inhabited the mortal and dark world no more. The mounting despair was obvious as Valdrek stood there motionless in the knowledge the sun was soon to be rising. Yet here he found himself unwilling to move to back to the guaranteed sanctuary of the lair's darkness. As regret migrated to all parts of his mind only the sudden thought of Aurelia's unknown fate abruptly snapped him out of a relentless despair!

Refocused, Valdrek hastily retreated back to the safety of the darkened hallways within the grand gothic castle. Away from the danger of a scheduled rising sun swiftly he maneuvered his way to the grand master bedroom where a blood drained to within an inch of her life Aurelia was last observed. Having entered the splendid grandeur of the contemporary designed classic master bedroom, Valdrek observed the unrepentant rage of an emotionally spent Carmilla. Completely lost to her grief, she stood threateningly above the weakened unconscious body of Aurelia. Looking to recklessly strike out at flesh and blood Carmilla relished this easy opportunity to vent out all her anguish at losing a dear friend. 'Stop, stop now, I forbid this!' instantly her exalted master Valdrek declared. As angrily he flew towards a noticeably disoriented Carmilla in the process of raising up a weighty brass fire stoker to reign down on the innocent woman at her feet. Seeking accepted justification of her rash actions Carmilla declared 'It's her fault' Landing next to her Valdrek soon questioned 'Did she command these demons work?' Carmilla retorted 'Had she not offered herself we would have been prepared for this! The blame solely lies on her, it is her fault we are now only three remaining'

Valdrek ordered an aggrieved Carmilla to instantly cease any attack 'She is now destined to be one of us, if this girl can only survive beyond the next period of sunlight? Aurelia, she is strong willed and we need her. My heart tells me she will be an advantage in the rebuilding of our nest" Gently Valdrek now took away the ready to strike fire stoker from Carmilla's confused trembling hands. 'It is imperative we now retreat to the cellar! The sun will soon rise over the horizon, come Carmilla, come now! Remember in your grief, we need her' With no other viable choice a disenchanted Carmilla finally ended her threatening stance to join Valdrek in brisk flight down to the reliable sanctuary of the cellar where they could safely rest. The evening's horrific events had now finalized with the end result being only a meager existence lingering for all remaining inhabitants within these walls. Tomorrow if Aurelia survives she will drink Valdrek's blood as confirmation of her arrival as one of the undead, a vampire! Exhausted, Valdrek could only greet the night's dream world wondering the eventual outcome of this strange twist of fate for the farmer's daughter that so readily offered her own life. For the sake of her adopted bloodlines.

The tainted incision of the vampire fangs will culminate in different outcomes for the afflicted, depending upon the recipient's religious resolve. This will come as a reflection of their internal fortitude to demonstrate a desire for an ongoing existence, be it mortal or a creature born of the nightworld. Most victims of a vampire's tenacious bite will all too soon discover an outcome beyond insufferable as slowly they decline from the living into an impoverished carcass of a human contempt. More often than not the loss of life giving blood alone is enough to ensure one's demise. Only the strongest will of an infected human can ultimately decide to execute a challenge to their very own mortality's destiny! Such an onslaught of pure evil lurking would within its self command certain death for most. The perilous situation for the human existence will only now retaliate if the suffering individual actually possesses a darkened soul, already seeking to explore the night world of the afterlife through the vessel of the undead.

In God's eyes the fallen from grace contorted body of Aurelia continues to unconsciously fight for any resemblance of an earth bound existence until Valdrek returns. Then upon her desecraters' return the required donation of Valdrek's cursed by prophet God's blood will then send her mind into a macabre void of no return. At this point Aurelia's tormented body will violently twist and turn in a barely conscious increasingly ever evolving terror! Her very being will dangerously lament on the edge of obscurity forever more! Acceptance his blood or not she will experience a swaying fate either for life or for death. For it will be only the chillingly cold winter's air constantly rising up from the depths of the castle's cellar lair that will allow for her mind to clearly reminisce of her original pure intentions. This will be a reassuring sensation enabling Aurelia to precariously remain a contender in the contest for a recognizable presence of life, in any form of flesh and blood. Only a very few unique mortals can ever survive a vampires bite to continue on the successful transformation into one of the nightworld. Against the eyes of God Aurelia may just be one of those precious few to ever transcend to the other side .....purposely.

The following day would see the last remnants of Aurelia's dwindling family mount a fruitless search for her amongst the tightly planted century old pine trees of the dense lush forest. Perplexed at the very thought, they could not fathom how anyone could purposely immerse themselves into the unforgiving darkness of the night forest? Then expect to survive the experience as a whole, either mentally or physically? Numerous cries of her name would eventually be forced to succumb to the harsh reality that no one lives to talk about a night spent in the forest, especially during a full moon! Never could have they once suspected the angelic purity of her true motives. A sacrifice solely based on love and admiration for the family values of a simple village life. As the sun began its slow decline into the horizon the last surviving cousin of Aurelia's clan looked at the sky wondering if the white werewolf had once again taken another member of their family? As well as her father, so far a total of nine cousins, a step brother, three uncles and two aunts were now missing! All were presumed dead at the hands of the ever vengeful white werewolf. Disturbingly the only recent confirmed sighting of the skillful night predator was to tragically see **Aurelia's step father violently ripped to shreds** in a horrific display of expert killing! What was perhaps just as worrying is that it happened only one town away. The beast was indeed coming for the last of them! The revealing story of her late father's secret concerns were only now just discovered amongst his remaining possessions that included a dairy of his northbound journey some eight years ago now.

Provocatively awoken by the inviting smell of the cold damp night air Valdrek quickly rose to look over his last two remaining subordinates. Although it was extremely rare he contemplated their existence as mere subordinates. To Valdrek they were much more, they were long time trusted associates of the nightworld. He could never belittle their relentless faith in him by a simple demeaning label of order. Valdrek tried as hard as a vampire possibly could to be sensitive to his assistants needs. He understood these were once highly admired women that even royalty would have been proud of to include on the formal family crest and portraits. If a vampire can be blessed, he indeed felt blessed to instill them into his darkened heart as trusted companions. In this highly dangerous time for this once powerful allegiance of blood thirsty predators. Silently Valdrek rejoiced in their exquisite contrasting definitions of splendor. Adolpha was a voluptuous blonde beauty with pale while skin that seemingly flowed upwards to connect into her whitened blonde locks of hair with such ease you could easily swear her hair was living skin or that her skin was living hair. Such was the way they it so convincingly entwined with each other! Her womanly full figured shape gave no hint she had been departed from the living for at least two hundred years! Of course, more than once she had used her inviting appearance to her advantage when in search of a victim.

Carmilla was the exact opposite, a smallish feisty raven haired beauty who even though long time dead, somehow managed to retain inviting lustful big red lips to complement her slender toned figure! Her appearance deceptively camouflaged her true existence as one of the entities of the night desiring to relieve any unsuspecting suitor of their life giving blood. Carmilla had long learned that when alluring skin is revealed to even the staunchest of gentlemen. They will investigate and try to fulfill any and all lustful thoughts of romance. Carmilla even cheekily sometimes allowed herself some continued foreplay before the final bite was undertaken. After all, she was no longer a virgin when the transformation occurred. Peculiarly some mortal based needs continue to be a requirement, even for the non-living. She still considered her greatest conquest to be the devout church minister who willingly blasphemed his taken oaths once lured into her moist trap of pleasure. The accomplished predator that is Carmilla still laughs out loud when recalling the forestalled expression he displayed upon learning of his newly determined fate! Heck she even left a little blood in him to watch his tortured soul squirm in agony as God quietly stripped him of all rights to a heavenly afterlife. The stealth of such a proficient vampiress can never be ignored by the living, never!

Aurelia Feeds

Valdrek's comforted thoughts of close security hastily reverted back to the upstairs bedroom where the fate remained unknown of their possible convert, Aurelia. Inspired by the daunting process of the rebuilding his now close to defeated vampire lair Valdrek took to flight in search of an answer! He had to know, did she survive the ordeal? Will her weakened body be ready to accept Valdrek's tainted blood to fulfill the migration over to one of the undead and just as importantly, one of his lair? Subconsciously he also desired one more answer, would the grand daughter of his only mortal love survive to possibly reignite long lost feelings within him? Could fate possibly return love in a most unexpected delivery? Arriving at the entrance to the master bedroom Valdrek was soon alerted to the sobbing sound of a soul lost in despair. Yes she survived the night! With the arrival of a new night's dark laden sky, finally there was hope abound. Worryingly though the transcending equilibrium of Aurelia's distorted bodily fluids had converged on Aurelia's adrenalin glands to provide final recognizable heartbeats of a living soul under God's eyes. Valdrek needed to act quickly to instill his blood into her lost body perched on an abyss of uncertainty. Quickly Valdrek held his punctured wrist vein tightly to Aurelia's dry quivering lips! Attempting to convert her last heartbeat to that of undead!

Revitalized by the plethora of transforming properties contained within Valdrek's ancient vampire blood her dry searching tongue eagerly began licking now dark moistened lips. Soon it would become all too apparent that she craved more of this elixir of the undead. The timing of Valdrek's endeavor was immaculate and the acceptance of Aurelia's body to the darken world of a night predator comprehensive. Throughout the nearby forest all creatures of the nightworld joyful welcomed another vampire. Aurelia's last remnants of human living color quickly dissipated as simultaneously the veins in her body darkened. Noticeably her pupils retracted to a smaller black more distinctive dilation. Unsure of what to expect next Aurelia suddenly clenched her mouth in agony as her two outer incisor teeth being forcibly pushed out from her gums by an excruciatingly sharp set of canine inspired fangs. The overwhelming shock of the experience forced Aurelia to vomit up the last of any mortal food consumed. Looking up to the watching on Valdrek she wiped the mess away from her mouth only to taste a trickle of blood coming from her wounded gums. Swiftly Valdrek grabbed her by the arm, stating to never drink her own blood. Feeling disorientated Aurelia attempted to rise up from the floor, she was noticeably awkward in her movements, but determined! Valdrek instantly sensed he was in the presence of one of the greats.

He astutely now commented 'Some are born to live in the night, it's just a first they fail to recognize it' Tightly clenching her two fists Aurelia enthusiastically studied the newly formed weapons in her possession. Already it seemed, she possessed an understanding of the formidable power contained within a reborn dark heart. It momentarily scared her somewhat to think of how readily she had accepted it, no make that embraced it! Perhaps Valdrek assumption was correct? Some are born to the nightworld long before they arrive! Acknowledging the effects of the changeover to the empire of the vampire Valdrek requested for Aurelia to be seated. He then shared with her the story of the world she was now destined to inhabit for as long as time its self allows. An attentive Aurelia could already see the accumulation of history flowing throw Valdrek's thirteen hundred year old memory. He then began to reveal the beginnings of not only his world, but what is her world now. He took a deep breath and sat next to her while gently holding her hand.

"My forefathers were the followers of ancient world pagan beliefs in a complicated land. When the threat of a powerful new god arose they were all too easily coerced by the Romans to diligently guard the dying body of the prophet Jesus Christ who was nailed to the crucifix. As payment they were offered the solemn promise they could continue to partake in their old world rituals without retribution. The guardians rejoiced in the obliteration of the figurehead of this new audacious religion that had so brashly even foolishly promised to love all. As certain death drew closer they joyfully danced underneath his crucifix while partaking in the drinking of his falling blood. The breaking dawn's sunlight erupted over the horizon as the last of his living blood fell to a waiting pagan's accepting mouth. This was just as the moment of death occurred. With that came the manifestation of the defeated vengeful figurehead's wrath"

Aurelia interjected 'Is that why holy water is able to hurt us?' Valdrek edged closer then explained 'The prophet named Jesus Christ had one more act of vengeance to bestow upon the celebrating pagans below. For not long after his death a torrential rain fell on all who danced under the cross. When the deluge concluded the drained waters from the fallen prophet's body turned to acid. Forcing the pagans to abandon their celebrations as now they fled screaming in agony. Only some of the fleeing pagans reached the sanctuary of the rivers cooling water. The one's who did make it were horrifically scarred similar to the cave lepers that society had so easily turned its back on. The holy water is a reminder for the offspring of the cursed pagans to never forget the wrath of a defeated god. I rarely saw my hideously scarred parents who were both at the cross that day.

'I am a direct descendent of the original bloodline damned by the dying prophet. At this time I was within the womb. As the only vampire ever to be born it was always decreed that I also would eventually transcend into the existence of the undead. On the morning of my twenty first birthday the change abruptly came. When I awoke my parents were gone, I felt strangely disoriented and unable to venture near the sunlight. It was at this moment I knew the curse of the fallen prophet would never again allow me to feel the sun's warmth on my body. Next I fell to the ground in convulsions as the change finalized itself within me. After a time I then fell into unconsciousness, only awake again upon the arrival of night time's darkness. I rose to my feet then dicovered my parents farewell note explaining the ramifications associated with curse of the cross and what I had to do to survive. Feed on the living as a reminder of the fallen prophet and his powerful revenge against the pagan's actions. Despite his wrath I have always believed we will outlive the blessed in the same way we have continued on after the roman Empire fell'

Fascinated by the turbulent beginnings of her new family's origins Aurelia inquisitively asked how many of their kind inhabited the Earth? Valdrek proudly explained that each and every night the empire of the vampires continues to grow! However this was possibly a false truth, considering the recent disturbance of the Black Plague. Seeking not to overwhelm his new apprentice Valdrek chose to ignore the demon threat for the moment. Beside there was no doubting Aurelia would soon achieve a thorough knowledge of all their sworn enemies! Aurelia's redeveloping mind of newly instigated thoughts inadvertently succumbed to the question of her first feed? Who would be her first kill, how long could she survive without feeding? Will only the blood of a living human soul quench her thirst? Valdrek went on to explain her newly resurrected body was destined to remain of a state of changing configurations for six hours. At which time if the final element is not forthcoming she would die and ultimately remain static in an endless world of purgatory. 'Come Aurelia we must bring about the final element!' Aurelia felt a certain strength and confidence in the focused tone of her new masters voice. Once on her feet Aurelia soon found herself deeply breathing in the night air. Strangely she had never contemplated such a refreshing sensation as one of the living. The biting crisp air seemed to only enhance to her newly acquired strength of mind and body.

Valdrek instructed Aurelia to wait in the castle's courtyard while he discussed with Adolpha and Carmilla their movements for the night. After a short while it was agreed they would feed at a village beyond their normal hunting grounds. It was imperative that the weakened Aurelia must be given the first kill of the night! Valdrek was taking no chances on this first night of the rebuilding of the lair. The new addition must survive, no matter what! The waiting Aurelia admiringly watched on as the two figures of Adolpha and Carmilla so easily took the stormy night. They looked so graceful as if they were a beautiful bird's wing feather, willingly to flow with the chosen directions of the wind. Upon Valdrek's return Aurelia inquired if she was suitably attired? Valdrek laughed out loud stating 'Aurelia my dear I have enjoyed some of my best feast's without the company of clothing! Don't worry your feast will have no time to critique your dress sense. Now let us go and fulfill your waiting destiny!' With a hand reached out for her to hold onto Valdrek smiled then reassuringly whispered 'Come now' Aurelia's darkened heart now raced as suddenly she felt the ground from underneath disappearing from touch, she was actually airborne!

The sensation of flight was exhilarating as suddenly hidden wind thermal winds rushed towards her face! Soon without even knowing it Valdrek had released his strong grip of her arm and for the first time Aurelia was flying solo. Looking to all around she suddenly noticed Valdrek was some twenty or so feet behind as unexpectedly a gust of wind threw her backwards to Valdrek's waiting arms. Overjoyed at this new sensation Aurelia laughed out loud while adjusting her noticeably awkward flight style. Valdrek observed the absolute pleasure in her eyes then requested 'Try again?' Mischievously he once more released his grip upon her. Except this time Aurelia stayed true to her chosen flight path! Valdrek offered some helpful information 'Aurelia you must concentrate on where you are going to, once you have been there before you only have to close your eyes and you return there again' Aurelia replied 'It's wonderful, soon I will try to remember a landmark' Valdrek laughed out loud then stated 'Hang on you must first go there as a fully fledged vampire for it to work. Don't rush you have all of eternity to visit which ever landmark your tainted little black heart desires!'

Within minutes, much to her amazement the lights of the village were sighted as next Valdrek requested complete silence. 'We must remain stealth Aurelia, the village knows of the strange disappearances. Many are blamed on the werewolves and demons, I choose to let them believe they are the main culprits behind these bleak occurrences' Aurelia nodded in unspoken acknowledgement of Valdrek's vast experience regarding how vampires must hunt for their prey. She understood they needed to retain an equilibrium carefully designed to mask their influencing involvement of the numbers taken. Landing on the village outskirts Aurelia grasped Valdrek's arm then whispered 'These are the people I grew up with, does it have to be here?' Valdrek contemplated Aurelia's justified concerns then arrived at a suitable solution. 'Of course the graveyard' ... 'The graveyard?' replied a confused Aurelia 'I thought we cannot drink from the dead?' Valdrek fiendishly grinned 'We do not seek the dead, we seek the ones who steal the dead. Perhaps your valid concerns will achieve a distorted justice for the fallen who are stolen from their place of rest in the afterlife!'

Together they now migrated to the location harboring numerous graves and headstones 'What of the all the crosses? Will that not keep us at bay?'...'I see you have an inquisitive mind my kitten, you must know it is only a cross similar in dimensions to that of the fallen prophet final moments that can repel us from entry. This why all the churches of God openly display such a grand crosses at the very peak of their roof. It is their way to make all evil intentions heed the will of God! We must respect, it is their sanctuary' Aurelia commented 'I never did like enjoy the sermons anyway' Valdrek laughingly replied 'Very amusing my dear, very amusing indeed' Without notice Aurelia went flying backwards, sensing an adventurous spirit Valdrek once more reminded her 'You must concentrate Aurelia until you have been there once before' Catching up to return next to her masters side Aurelia displayed a cheeky grin as if to declare all was within her control! Soon they could observe the many various shaped silhouettes of all the graves headstones placed upon the hill in the distance. Even a withered old cast iron fence was visible in this light. Landing close by Valdrek once more requested a cautious silent approach. Carefully the two predators of the night maneuvered to the boundary of the place where the dead peacefully slept. Sure enough they were soon alerted to the grave robbers voices, then movement from within these hollowed sacred grounds.

Valdrek gently whispered into Aurelia's ear 'It is their destiny Aurelia, they are condemned by not only the nightworld but also that of the living! God will no longer graciously except them into his house' Silently she nodded in acceptance of what must be done to achieve her own exalted position amongst the undead. To become a viable predator she must be willing to take a life for her very own survival, kill tonight or perish is such a simple ultimatum. 'There, they are two' Valdrek announced as next much to his astonishment Aurelia replied 'Perfect! A feast for each of us!' It was now apparent that Aurelia's freshly awakened desires could no longer be suppressed! Briskly she now hovered ahead of Valdrek towards the two unsuspecting grave robbers. Upon her arrival she would unleash the horrible ramifications of all their evil doings. An insatiable thirst for the succulent taste of blood had been aroused within her and Aurelia was more than willing to obliterate any obstacles that lay in its path! Stalking her prey Aurelia was only now moments away from the complete transformation into a full blooded vampire. A strangely chosen path that fate had somehow managed to twist upon her. In proud admiration Valdrek could not easily recall such a salacious enthusiasm from a non confirmed warrior of the night as quickly he joined her side to launch their attack.

Targets agreed upon they silently glided over blood sodden ground. Here they were, only a moment away from the exposed necks carrying the red fluid needed to confirm Aurelia's tenacious grip on the darkness. Then without hesitation she launched herself at the larger of the two men who by now had swung around to acknowledge their impending fate! Alas though, it was to be all too late as viciously Aurelia savaged at the neck of her chosen prey. The overwhelming shock of their unexpected demise saw both grave robbers soon fall to the ground in disoriented disbelief at the outcome of their devious deeds. They were both about to join to the very commodity they were dealing in, the dead. Warm dark rich red blood spurted onto Aurelia's face as she delighted in the success of her endeavor. This first taste of a mortal's blood was to be a ruthless attack on not only the victims senses but also her own! And to think, her awakening had only just begun as her drained victim slumped back into the grave he was about to rob. Curiously, his pale body broke then through the top of the coffin, as if this had always been his purpose. Valdrek was not so quick to eliminate his chosen prey. Proudly he displayed the remaining grave robber's gushing blood as a gift to his confirmed apprentice who gratefully pounced upon the chance to feed once more. Valdrek laughed 'Slow down my eager young dear, we have all of mankind to feast upon, but only until the end of eternity.

Now in search for the presence of any other living souls Aurelia displayed a wicked pleasure of her recently completed task as next she pleaded 'More, I must have more' Valdrek decided it was again time to further educate his over zealous pupil 'Remember we must always take refuge in the shadows of the night and remain stealth in our resolve. You have confirmed yourself as one of us and now we must return to the lair. Soon enough you can resume to quench your bloodlust, but for now our work for this evening has been accomplished, perhaps too well?' Valdrek tried to recall witnessing such unbridled acceptance and enthusiasm of the path to the dark side. However he was unable to easily recollect any similarly obscene actions of such an untrained apprentice as witnessed on this evening. An extremely proud Valdrek was quickly convinced he had unleashed a formidable killer of the night onto this world! The return journey was noticeably silent as a bemused Valdrek attempted to come to grips with this new weapon fate had unknowingly set free. Valdrek was lost for any other suitable explanation of these events? He could only now consider her lust to be a mighty weapon he was grateful to know was faithfully allocated to his side. Was it at all possible he had unwittingly discovered a vampire perhaps considered to be that of his equal? Of this he was not sure, only time its self would reveal the true answer to this perplexing question he continuously now pondered.

Parson Arrives

For some light relief, Valdrek challenged Aurelia to find her way home without the assistance of vision. To his amazement she spun around like a twisting top then pointed to the correct direction homeward 'Will that do?' she confidently inquired 'Very impressive' responded Valdrek while reaffirming previous thoughts of how some are born into the darkness before they know it. He truly believed Aurelia was the perfect example of his hypothesis. As they approached the grand castle Valdrek curiously noticed the idle body of a man lying motionless at the enormous cast iron gate leading into the castle grounds. He could only assume it to be of a mortal because a vampire or possibly a demon would surely find entry elsewhere into the castle. Swiftly he ordered an inquisitive Aurelia to enter the castle via the waiting courtyard below. To discover the possible intruder's identity was his task alone and he would accept no interference at this point. Cautiously Valdrek landed only to become unexpectedly alerted to the faint scent of a weakened vampire? Indeed this man was one of their own, and apparently close to death! Concerned for a comrade of the nightworld Valdrek was prompt to render assistance as he questioned the identity of this previously unknown vampire of the lands? Each vampire possesses a special heightening of one the senses and for Valdrek to fail to recognize this unknown traveller of the night meant his existence was precariously on the edge.

Valdrek soon surmised the only rejuvenating substance to alleviate this much travelled vampire's symptoms could only be the blood of an innocent youth. With the others out feeding Aurelia was hastily summoned to the entrance to assist this ailing vampire's recovery. Not long after Valdrek's hasty departure an especially inquisitive Aurelia and the subject of her attention managed to achieve entry beyond the cast iron gates. Examining the semi conscious visitor to the castle's grounds, Aurelia pondered how his undisclosed journey had somehow led him to the grounds of this vampire lair? A curious nature would soon see her question the weakened immortal laying in her arms 'How did you ever find us?' The foreign traveller gazed up to Aurelia stating in a distinctly French accent 'You have not long been a part of or world, have you?' Unsettled emotions at the newly arrived traveller's accurate analogy of her situation provoked her next question. Which was to seek out how he could hold knowledge of such a thing? Slightly recovered the French visitor simply disclosed 'We all have a special gift allocated to one of our senses. After the demon attack I just kept travelling North East until I could hear another vampire's voice. It was only when I reached the lands of Germany I could be certain to hear another comrade of the nightworld. Grimacing with pain accompanied by dehydration the new arrival slumped over once more, dangerously close to death.

Aurelia looked to the turbulent night sky above, anxiously hoping to observe a returning Valdrek. She was well aware of the perilous predicament this new arrival was enduring. For it was literally only hours ago she also teetered on the brink on the abyss. The one reassuring factor was that Valdrek would undoubtedly return with the resolution to the problem at hand. The burning question was would he return in time? As Aurelia steadfastly gazed skywards she now pondered what her special attribute was to be? Should she had known by now? Should it be apparent immediately upon the transformation? Upon taking a slow deep breath she soon realized there was the remainder of eternity for the answer to this puzzling question to unveil its self. Simple truth was Aurelia had not even been a vampire for one full night. How could she be expected to demonstrate a thorough knowledge of all things born of the immortal's world! She now relaxed a little in the knowledge that her new master Valdrek would soon return to the lair and as usual take command of the situation at hand. Also there was also the expected return of Carmilla and Adolpha to factor in as well. Surely, between all of them they would save this withered and distraught survivor of what appears to have been another coordinated demon attack! Aurelia considered how ironic it was. Here she stood with all her newly delegated dark powers, yet she was unable to do a thing to resuscitate perhaps one of the last of their kind.

Suddenly in a flash of glory Valdrek reappeared. In his possession was a boy eight years of age, valiantly struggling in denial of his newly chosen fate. At this point the inhumanity of their breed dawned upon Aurelia as unable to watch she turned away while the screaming child succumb to deadly bite to the main vein in his neck. The life of one was now lost for the life of another now saved. So why did Aurelia find it so unsettling? It was only in a later moment of solitude the answer would eventually come to her. The child was innocent, where as the grave robbers were hideous individuals praying on the misfortune of the dead. Unquestionably they deserved to die! It was at this moment Aurelia made a silent pact to herself, which was to live this new life with as much honor wherever possible. As the wise Valdrek as previously demonstrated stealth and respect for the ones hunted would always retain an honorable sense of order. It made sense once thoroughly contemplated, always respect your prey and maintain the equilibrium. Witnessing the recovering French traveller's first attempts to take to his feet. Within Aurelia's thoughts came a perplexing assumption. Perhaps it was true that a certain honor could be achieved, if the inspiration was executed with integrity!

In a short time the body of the deceased child was disposed of and a despondent Aurelia found herself more at ease with the unprecedented situation of witnessing his death. After all she was so new to this and although perhaps a natural, there were still situations needing to be experienced to truly judge all the darkened parameters that from time to time would occur. Gratefully now the return of Carmilla and Adolpha would divert Aurelia's somber thoughts elsewhere as she respectfully listened in on their evenings pillage of living blood supplies. Carmilla was giggling so much that Aurelia could not help but wonder if perhaps a village drunk was on her menu? Although intensely interested in the night's events Aurelia knew better than to invasively question Carmilla about any of her conquests, especially at this stage of the game. Besides the new arrival was the center of attention as they all gathered around to bear witness his recent story of woe. Aurelia watched on as Valdrek exhibited total respect for an obviously very powerful time withered vampire that was somehow able to withstand a demon attack and live on the speak of the tale. His name was Parson, which ironically meant 'Minister of the clergy' in his native tongue. He went on to share his story of survival at the hands of a band of marauding green demons undoubtedly intent on cross contamination of the species. Parson spoke of how he and his strongest off sider Alain were to engage in battle with the rampaging demons upon a return of night feasting.

Arriving home, they grimly discovered the green skinned intruders had successfully forced their will onto all of the females of the clan who were corralled into the one master chamber. One by one they were each pack raped until nearly losing consciousness at the brutal undertaking by the demons. Once Parson and his off sider realized the dire situation at hand, they quickly killed the solitary demon guarding the master room. They then barricaded the door and doused it with any alcoholic spirits available to be used as a fire source. Reluctantly, amongst the ongoing screams they now lit the barricade. Condemning all within the chamber to certain death, demons and violated vampires alike! A heartbreaking act undertaken at the survival of the species! Parson was well aware all the females were now no longer of pure blood and would have to be eliminated regardless if he and Alain had managed to defeat the ruthless demon intruders. Their fate was sealed the moment they allowed themselves to be contained in the one room with these festering evil creatures of the night. This vivid recollection of events would soon overcome Parson, now stopping to take in a deep breath and recompose himself as best he could. He went on to further comment, it was the only time in eight hundred years he could actually recall shedding a tear in remorse. Even vampires occasionally suffer nightmares Aurelia had just discovered!

Silently Valdrek listened on while secretly admiring the remaining females of his lair. He felt a certain justification in his choices and believed his vampires may have retaliated with more endeavor? Not that he would ever dare share these openly bias views with Parson. There was nothing to be gained by reigniting a recently extinguished fire in his heart. Soon Carmilla questioned 'What of Alain?' Again Parson sighed, as if as a warning to all this was not happy result either. 'We stood guard outside the burning room accompanied by cries of terror from both demons and vampires alike, all burning the same. Never have I considered the blood curdling pain of either species like I did that night. To incinerate your own kind is not an easy chore on one's mind! Then as we realized our horrific work had come to a conclusion. One last undetected demon charged out from the library to plunge a wooden stake directly into Alain's back. Immediately the flames of hell erupted from his tortured soul. In a frenzy of fury I tore the demons head off before he could mount an assault on me. I never knew the suppressed rage within me had such determination until it was unleashed' The clan listened on, unsure of how to relinquish the blatant suffering of this emotionally void vampire who now sought their comradeship. Remaining curious of the hidden attributes each vampire possesses Aurelia finally broke the silence 'You could hear us?'

Parson looked to all throughout the room wondering what their special attributes may be? He then stated 'This is the third night I have travelled in search of our kind. Once there was a time when I could hear vampires wherever I ventured, but ever since the arrival of the dark plague the voices have diminished. I truly fear the demons have strategically out maneuvered our kind this time' Valdrek contributed 'While there is still breath in this body I shall never allow the demons of the night to defeat us!' Carmilla and Adolpha jumped in 'Here, here' Parson gratefully found strength in their words and prevailing attitude to their ongoing presence in the nightworld. He was close to death only an hour ago but now lived in temporary sanctuary in the knowledge there was kinship from his own kind. Soon he would rest, sadly on offer in the cellar there were too many vacated coffins for him to choose from. It then struck him this clan was also perilously close to being decimated but defiantly had somehow managed to hold on. Perhaps they really were the only surviving examples of their kind? Aurelia was also placed into an uncomfortable situation as she too was burdened with the choice of inhabiting a recently vacated coffin. Upon her selection she accepted if her dreams would most likely absorb the history of the former resident, a lost warrior of the night.

Slumber for a vampire is a dark deep experience, even at the best of times. So many years relived in the world of dreams can attest to an erratic collection of fairytales not for the faint hearted! The dreams of a vampire would no doubt immerse the living into a mental torment never to be recovered from. Aurelia's first sleep coincided with the last of her transition into the nightworld. The next evening she would posses her special attribute of the senses, even if remaining unaware of it. Some vampires never capitalize on the powers bestowed upon them. Just as in real life, some are not deeply self aware or able to enhance their abilities. Some simply do not seek to manipulate circumstance to gain the advantage. To fail to achieve is to fail to exploit! A skillful predator will use all resources around them to gain benefit if their current predicament requires it. All creatures of the nightworld must learn to expand on their inbuilt skills and knowledge! There was no doubting that some of the countryside's lair's invaded by the curse of the Black Plague were the dens of iniquity. Where the inhabitants possessed little indemnity of decency, even for a vampire! These collections of nightworld souls inhabited abodes designed only for the dark pleasures of existence.

Here, there were no rules or morals to abide by. Just a never ending desire for intoxicating lust supplied by the closest of their kind in possession of the same ideals. There was no doubting this element of sloth was an indelible part of their fortitude. The same could possibly be said of their choice of victims when feeding. Some of these maligned vampires had actually chose to feed on the weakened victims of the Black Plague in the knowledge a quick return to their debortuary was assured. Rather than hunt the strong and healthy, it was easier to take tainted blood! This was an incorrigible existence only maintained by fool hardy individuals unknowingly influencing the survival of their very own species! Valdrek always rested soundly in his coffin, his dreams went uninterrupted by such blasphemes. He rested well in the knowledge he had always chosen wisely. If ever a subordinate displayed the audacity to bring such creatures of disrepute to the lair he would simply kill them both in an example of how this prestigious community would always remain. Valdrek was well aware that even in death, an element of style and grace must always be maintained! The arrival of Parson and Aurelia confirmed his rational was sound and that even in the nightworld there were opportunities to embrace yourself in quality associations built upon foundations of trust and reliability.

The following days after Parson's arrival would open up a whole new world for not only Aurelia, but also the other members of the lair. His stories of grandeur while feeding upon opulent royal French blood would captivate all who attentively listened. His flippant attitude towards his hapless victims engulfed the room in laughter as proudly he shared many amusing tales of stalking only the most atrocious individuals of upper class society. Especially the ones who excelled in a myriad of atrocities inflicted upon the less fortunate lower classes. Simply put Parson believed he had contributed most admirably to the demise of these fascist pigs. Although of course some revolutions are better off left to the living population of such circumstances, but certainly a fun endeavor nether less. In moments of solitude Aurelia contemplated her old life and was grateful to think her adopted family traded only in love and affection for each other and the nearby population of the town's folk. Carmilla and Adolpha would quite often plead with Parson to divulge the latest fashions! They insisted he disclose all new trends he had become aware of when in the presence of the glorious French females of the lair. For the first time in a number of years the castle walls echoed hope and encouragement for the future. These solid foundations were going to build a stronger lair than the previously Valdrek gratefully believed. Even the recent passing of the full moon had given Aurelia hope as from a distance she observed the remainder of her old family to all be intact, perhaps the white werewolf was gone?

Parson had come to love the simplicity of a vampire lair adjacent to a large town and even grew to understand this precious commodity must be nurtured and respected if expected to continue to flourish. Sometimes unnecessary feedings were put off until the following evening or perhaps slightly longer journey would be undertaken to another village further on. It was to be on one such journey that the darkness of the night was once more exposed as a dangerous destination for all that travel in its shadows. Valdrek and Parson had already enjoyed spectacular night's hunting as fortuitously they stumbled across a lone gypsy wagon full of merry revelers. They were all so lost in their own ceremony that not even one of them recognized the threat that was Valdrek and Parson as they descended down upon them. One fool hardy drunken gypsy even had the misguided gall to question if they were in fact angels sent by God to bless them? The moments that followed such misplaced comments, quickly confirmed to all the entity descended upon them was in fact anything but a gift from God! Seven souls were lost in an instant and what made this an especially sweet treat was that no one would even bother to investigate the loss of foreign gypsy travellers! Feasts of this kind are rarely found so easily, so when they come your way you must enjoy every last drop of blood. Valdrek was particularly pleased to taste the fear in every victim. Some nights just go better than others he told himself while wiping the last of the spilt blood from his chin.

Tom foolery was abound during their victorious return to the lair. Loop the loops and other such daring stunts seemed in order for the two comrades rejoicing in a revitalizing night's work. Watching on as Parson dived down to fly under an extremely low bridge Valdrek rolled his eyes upwards in amusement of the antics of this daring new member of the clan. The bold stunt seemed a little risqué considering the bridge led solely to the church just over the hill. Valdrek laughed to think how many devout followers would never sleep again had they known what had momentarily lurked underneath their road to salvation. With the maneuver successfully completed Parson now purposely stayed down low to the ground to demonstrate his well crafted flying abilities. Next part of the performance would see him he travel the length of an entire wine grape orchard in just one single aisle. Quite a feat considering how tightly each aisle was positioned next to each to other! At the end of the aisle a tree line designed to act as wind break was present and would force Parson to sharply rise upwards. It was at this very moment while momentarily lost from Valdrek's sight that a sudden blur of a large white flash erupted from within the row of windbreakers. This unexpected white blur immediately impacted the low flying Parson who spun around as a result of the force of the collision.

Surprisingly the seemingly natural instinct of righting himself upwards was somehow strangely hindered as he struggled to regain any form of momentum? Much to his horror, the next second Parson became aware he was no longer a single passenger on this journey as the teeth of a white werewolf began to penetrate his neck! The pain was immense and the shock even more so. Worse still, the bite from the beast had sealed Parson's fate forever more! Upon releasing its grip on the punctured neck of Parson the white werewolf fell back to the ground then tumbled off. Up above an out of control Parson pushed his hand tightly onto the fatal wound that was now starting to leak the flames of hell! One second later the gaping hole in Parson's neck would explode into a fiery ball of flames! Confirming the wound was indeed lethal and as a result Parson's existence was no more! Moments later the last remnants of his burning body exploded upon impact with the ground below. The intriguing entity that was the French vampire Parson, was suddenly gone. Close by a mortified Valdrek tried to comprehend the circumstances just witnessed? From high up a distressed Valdrek sought explanation to this unforeseen occurrence. Suddenly, as if on cue the clouded night sky opened up to reveal what is known as a blue moon, an undeniably rare occurrence. The appearance of this extra full moon was not unheard of but it was not common enough to be noted on a calendar. Surely only a suppositious crop farmer would footnote such an unusual event to perhaps plant crops under?

Unrelenting shock and disbelief accompanied a lone Valdrek for the remainder of his journey on that night. Upon entering the grand sitting room Valdrek was met by a puzzled assortment of glances. All wondering why the solitary figure of their master had returned without the other who had accompanied him? 'Aurelia, we must kill the cursed white beast!' were the only words spoken as Valdrek descended down to the cellar to contemplate the nights unpredicted events. Aurelia looked at a bewildered Carmilla and Adolpha then confirmed 'The white werewolf has taken Parson from us' Instantaneously came the cries of 'Nooo!' from a disbelieving Carmilla and Adolpha trying desperately to comprehend how such an despicable occurrence could have taken place. Aurelia slowly walked to the window where after waiting a short time the blue moon exposed its self. Only the words 'Of course' could she mutter as now her thoughts reverted back to the memories of fallen family members from her previous life. Faint hopes that the werewolf had relinquished its curse soon diminished into the night air! The beast of her nightmares had returned and now begun to target not only the members of Aurelia's family but also her combined associates in a relentless agenda of revenge.

The only one gratifying circumstance of the premature demise of Parson was that now Valdrek had caught the white beast's scent and would forever more commit its unique odor to memory. In their next encounter he would be aware of the presence of the creature born of the full moon and now marked for death! No amount of pampering by the willing females of his lair would camouflage the mounting feelings of emptiness currently experienced by the master Valdrek. The brief interlude with the foreign Parson was not easily erased from his thoughts as Valdrek found himself suddenly missing the integrity of another wise Master's words. The various conversations shared were an inspiration to a better future in Valdrek's eyes. The loss of such a fine spoken partner would also be a contributing factor when his revenge was executed! Valdrek would soon demand any remaining information of the beast from a more than willing to assist Aurelia. They now shared the unique bond of a friend or loved one recently fallen at the wrath of this maligned creature, hell bent on revenge! No longer did the previously conflicted feelings of the rare creature's apprehension beckon Valdrek's conscious. Valdrek was now seeking a bloody revenge and he would use all his lifelong acquired skills to execute it.

Battle of Wits

Searching questions of how to entice such a creature into a trap and then eradicate it would soon the focus of much heated discussion. As now the angered residents of the lair were forced to also consider themselves a target. Upon thorough consideration of the many theories put forth Valdrek considered the best bait would present its self as scents from Aurelia's mortal family. Aurelia was then advised in no uncertain terms 'Either steal their clothes for bait or we will' For Aurelia, now came the inescapable dilemma of whether to reveal her newly transformed identity to her old family or remain in the shadows? Her family had received their fair allotment of despair over the previous months and to then know they had lost a family member to the dark side may just be the penultimate event to relinquish them of all remaining sanity? Especially if also warned the white werewolf has returned to hunt them down, one by one! In her wisdom Aurelia concluded it was best to simply steal the required items of clothing without any form of explanation. The vampires would now meticulously work together on the logistics of their common goal, kill the white werewolf!

The brutal attack on Parson witnessed by Valdrek confirmed they were up against a powerful foe. It was strategically decided that Carmilla and Adolpha would stay together as a team and that Aurelia, other than playing the bait would take no further part. It was far too risky to involve her beyond this Valdrek decreed. It was soon agreed that all the stolen articles of clothing would be tactically placed into an old traveller's wagon currently situated in the vacant stables. Valdrek would steal two fresh horses to draw the wagon and add authenticity to the trap. The concept was simple, lure the beast out into the open then all strike as one formidable force, well beyond the creature's defensive abilities. Which by this time would safely see Aurelia returned home to the lair. Valdrek also decided it would be prudent to arm Carmilla and Adolpha with enhanced razor sharp foot long silver daggers. It was now clear that another visit to Igor the alchemist was in order! Although the inherent danger with a visit to Igor's was, you never knew who may be lurking in the night time's shadows nearby? However, Valdrek considered it to be a viable risk if it ultimately achieved the upper hand? Besides, who knows what concoction Igor may have stashed away for such an occasion? The journey would be undertaken as soon as possible!

Aware of the impending journey to Igor's, Aurelia pleaded to accompany Valdrek, in the hope of improving her flying skills. Happy for some conversation Valdrek agreed to her companionship. With a rough plan now formulated the entire lair went out feeding to keep their collective strength at a premium. It was now Carmilla and Adolpha who were to witness first hand the insatiable appetite for bloodlust Aurelia possessed. Both were soon in awe at the slaughter machine that was Aurelia when focused on mortal destruction. Not that they would dare suggest it to the Master. But together these experienced blood hunters believed, even at this early stage Aurelia displayed a competency eligible enough for her to join in on the hunt for the white beast. However as both had learned the hard way in the past, there was to be no changing the master's steadfast mind once made up! Aurelia was currently a volatile weapon reconciled to be waiting. Excitedly the following evening Aurelia and Valdrek took off to greet the Alchemist of the nightworld, Igor. The peculiar entity known as Igor had first delved into the world of the darkness some fifty years ago now, after a band of gypsy's had ram shackled his family's village in search of sacrifices to appease the local demons. However, when the sacrifice of Igor was rejected by the hungry demon. It was declared Igor possessed powers far beyond that of the average living mortal! Simple truth was his father had forced the entire family to regularly drink an elixir of wolfs bane, garlic and other assorted herbs to keep evil at bay.

Surviving his ordeal and following the consequent release by the regretful gypsy's Igor decided to continue on a journey of discovery to the dark arts. Curiously his appearance has not aged in the past forty years according to Valdrek. Who first met him after a nasty bite from a gargoyle saw him seeking medical remedies of the 'unusual kind' For Igor, fermented pigs blood and other assorted ingredients were regularly used as the most common form of payment. Even the recent loss of Parson was to contribute to the payment as unbeknownst by the others his ashes were secretly collected by Valdrek for such dire occasions as this. Even the collected tears of the wrung out hanker chiefs in use when hearing of parson's demise would be considered suitable, especially those of the virgin Aurelia! Upon their arrival and some slow circling of Igor's residence for a number of times the cautious pair entered his erratic abode. An odd structure chock full of contradicting smells placed alongside assorted canisters, jugs and jars. All crammed full of the most repulsive ingredients that even a demon would find to his disliking. For one of the living a visit to such an establishment would most probably lead them to the nearest bridge where once a rope was tethered around the neck they would jump off to hurriedly end their nightmare! Igor's bizarre inventory was all guaranteed to be well beyond the realms of considered decency in the world of 1351.

Valdrek conveyed the dangerous dilemma at hand, seeking not only assistance from the world alchemy but also any extra verbal advice that may come his way? It was true, even a notably experienced vampire such as Valdrek was not privy to all the secrets contained within the darkness. At first Igor spoke of the wasted existence this unique creature had evolved into, but agreed once it had gone rouge its fate had been sealed! After payment was gratefully accept he produced a blended remedy of wolfs bane plant mixed into a solution of mercury liquid finished off with original werewolf's blood, stored away for just such an unusual occasion. Igor proudly now revealed, such a unique liquid's presence had never been previously disclosed to any other visitor. Igor liked to think he was a true master of his craft and that each concoction was an originally formulated potion for each exceptional situation. After all, this was not a tavern style convenience service! The ingredient of the werewolf's blood was designed to return the creature back to human form. Although cleverly, Igor knew not to guarantee any such results in case of angry return visitors! He could only do his best for each individual circumstance and learn from experience if the customer lived to convey the success of the method. In the world of trial and error strange things can sometimes eventuate. Armed with the knowledge to dip the silver daggers into the uniquely formulated potion Valdrek and a fascinated Aurelia then departed the premises.

Their eventual return was greeted with much enthusiasm by a rather nosey Carmilla and Adolpha, as eagerly they inquired about the ingredients of the powerful potion. Proudly Valdrek invited all to observe him immerse the silver daggers into the exquisitely odd concoction designed to swing the odds back in their favor. The loud crackling rising wafts of steam upon the insertion of each dagger only confirmed the potion was indeed a powerful weapon, now in their possession. Igor believed if just one of the daggers could penetrate the thick hide of the beast it would swiftly return to human form and as a result would become far more manageable. However as Igor had always stated, no matter how dire the situation, it never comes guaranteed of easy solution! The quiet time spent waiting for the next full moon of the almanac silently witnessed Aurelia skillfully remove unwashed clothing articles from the people still vividly living within her torn heart. At the farmhouse Aurelia's stealth movements combined regret, sorrow and a once of hope. Aurelia's conflicted emotions would see fight hard not to disclose the recent transformation endured. Yet when she heard joyful laughter of children at play inside the family cottage such an act of destruction remained void within her.

Some memories are far better off to remain as designated tools of inspiration she eventually surmised. Some of the idle time spent waiting for the onslaught of the beast was to see Aurelia begin to seek out the senses in possession of the others? Carmilla explained her enhanced sense was taste and that during every feeding session at some point there was an experienced taste of good or evil emitted from her victims. It sometimes added to the moment, especially if the victim was distinctly evil or of pure innocence? If evil was in fact discovered within them, it was almost like she was performing a public service Carmilla proudly declared. Adolpha had the benefit of added sight and was quite often able to identify prey from many miles away and of course identify any danger as well. There was no doubting Adolpha would be the main lookout in this vital mission to destroy the killer white beast. Aurelia had previously guessed Valdrek's well develop sense of smell was his special attribute. Meaning if Adolpha did not see the creature then surely Valdrek would smell his scent when the time came. It was patiently explained to Aurelia her enhanced sense will most likely arrive when least expected and that to fully immerse her self within the moment when it does arrive!

The lair maintained their regular feeding routine to keep not only their strength up, but also their senses. As the anticipated evening of slaying the beast approached, apprehension was in the air! Noticeably unsettled they all steadily paced the castle's vast corridors, deeply lost in their own thoughts. Valdrek regularly reminded all of who they were in the nightworld and that to have survived the Black Plague had demonstrated to all they were indeed truly warriors of the night! He confidently stated, this will be just another night for these well experienced predators! These timely verses of inspiration were gratefully acknowledged by all of his hunters. The grand sitting room of the castle lair displayed many finely detailed portraits from all previous and current members of their community. Valdrek loved to paint away the idle hours. As further inspiration he commanded every member of his team to study not only their own image but also that of the recently fallen parson. Inspired by his natural killing instincts, Valdrek was determined not to let any minds wander at such a crucial stage of the plan. This constant strategy planning contributed to an ever-alert frame of mind remaining intact. Aurelia happily spent some time grooming the recently acquired horses. It was some fun to reminisce about this chore back on the farm. She then openly laughed out loud to herself while contemplating the highly unusual sight of Valdrek slowing flying down the road with the stolen horses in tow. Surely such a macabre sight would have been enough to send any mortal witness directly to the crazy house!

Careful and considered planning would see a lush grazing paddock over a hill just beyond Aurelia's family's farm as the chosen destination to commence the fight. It was perfectly positioned with the woods offering coverage on both sides for the ready to strike vampires! As a large part of the alluring bait Aurelia's mind was at ease, in the knowledge her clan would be close by when the white were wolf decided to first strike. Finally the last hours before the full moon loomed and the atmosphere within the castle could only be described as cautious silence. It seemed somehow they each knew all would not return on this night, but yet were forced to valiantly confront the dilemma, regardless. Such was the dire reality of the situation thrust upon them. Valdrek continued the bravado speeches to keep spirits at a maximum. Finally, the last hour arrived. It was time to move out and begin the hunt! Horses were hitched up to the old covered gypsy wagon containing the many stolen articles of Aurelia's family scents. Aurelia felt especially lucky she was able to obtain these clothing pieces before any hand washing diminished the distinctive family odors designed to entice the beast. Some small logs were also at the ready to start a fire. Giving the impression the wagon was there for the night, the perfect ruse Valdrek complemented himself! Adolpha and Carmilla flew ahead to take position in case the eager beast was already stalking them. Valdrek was well aware that after the skillful attack on Parson, he should hold the upmost caution and respect for this strong adversary.

In the distance the local forest wolves began a choir of calls. As if to acknowledge the impending battle of wits, there was no guessing whose side they were on. The old wagon now loudly rattled along the makeshift path. Every creaking sound emanating up from the wooden wheels contributed another layer of paranoia. Shuddering noises of machinery bouncing heavily over the ground worried Valdrek as he considered just how much the sound resonated throughout the woods. He was also worried that the nearby farmhouse of Aurelia's kinfolk may become alerted to the happenings on this night, although there could be no retreating at this point. Destiny had laid out her cards and it was still anyone's guess who would eventually end up as the winner? Intently, the anxious female vampires watched the rattling wagon gradually pull up to a halt and then be hitched to a log smashed into the ground. A flickering fire was quickly ignited and the scene was set, a member of Aurelia's family out camping for the night. Soon her presence would join all family scents permeating up into the cold bright night's air. All onlookers felt confident such an inviting trap would prove irresistible for the vengeful beast. Suddenly Valdrek shot up into the night sky as a signal to all the trap was complete.

With her heart beating overtime Aurelia sat idle at the wagon. From afar Valdrek silently offered further words of encouragement as he returned to cover of the dark woods. The burning question on all onlooker minds was, could Aurelia hold out long enough to win this game of chance? The perfect scenario would be for the beast to investigate the rear of the wagon before confronting her at the campfire or on the reins man's seat. Rummaging through the old discarded goods in the wagon Aurelia surprised all by discovering and then gently playing a barely working accordion. The uneven squeaky sounds of the air travelling through the instrument's flutes only added to the concern of all as suddenly numerous wolfs began to accompany these eerie sounds of the forest night. Shadows danced haphazardly about the small campfire and were occasionally joined by the unexpected cracking sounds of burning wood. This only contributed even more paranoia to all that were witnessing the live bait named Aurelia, seemingly exposed and helpless? Time slowly marched on into the second hour as anxious eyes tried to maintain steadfast concentration. Eventually it was noted a dark silhouette had emerged from the tree line. There could be no doubting the size and grace of a prowling werewolf maneuvering closer to investigate to irresistible odors of its prey.

Encouraged, the moment had finally arrived for the beast to begin the slow stalk of its intended target. Meanwhile Aurelia gently continued her rhythmic bellowing of the accordion in the knowledge the time of her fate was drawing closer and closer. From afar, Valdrek could only hope she possessed the reflexes to avoid being trapped once the werewolf pounced! Although, having previously witnessed the rapid movements of her first attack on the grave robbers. He held a quiet confidence in her athletic abilities to avoid the advance of the white beast. Carmilla and Adolpha all too easily understood the undeniable threat that was the stalking beast. Frustratingly they were reconciled to wait until either the hunter or prey made their move! Valdrek remained certain he could smell their many conflicting spurts of enthusiasm and adrenalin, it only added to the suspense of the moment. Soon. Perhaps out of boredom? Aurelia rose to her feet pretending to look to the rest of her family in the back of the wagon. She loudly wished all a good night's sleep while then stating she would remain awake for a bit longer. Her intentions were to entice the creature to the back of the wagon in the expectation of cornering its prey. Aurelia was banking on the fact the opportunity to kill off more than one family member would be a lure too grand to ignore! Short seconds later her confirmed faith in revenge was justified. Unable to resist, the approaching creature specifically aimed its charge towards the open rear section of the wagon.

Although as yet unsighted by Aurelia the maneuvering beast was already in her thoughts. Perhaps it was only just now she had discovered the secret of her enhanced sense? At this point all Aurelia knew was that she could feel the presence of the beast moving in closer and closer. It was undoubtedly only a matter of moments until it would pounce onto the wagon. Overwhelming feelings of helplessness accompanied all onlookers who were forced to alleviate all natural instincts to warn Aurelia of the looming danger. In anticipation of the building climax Adolpha found herself temporarily forced to look away. Such was the building drama and constricting emotions of the moment. Poised for action Carmilla bravely stuck to her delegated task and was prepared to strike the moment the beast attacked. All daggers were firmly grasped in readiness for the imminent battle of wills. Then it began, accompanied by a crescendo of howling forest wolves. Staggered tuffs of turf flew into the air with each stride of the beast. Faster and faster the crestfallen mythical animal honed in on the waiting wagon, until confident enough that one single majestic leap would secure entry! At the front of the wagon in the reins man's seat Aurelia was instantly alerted to the snarling sounds only a short distance away from her position!

Craving revenge on behalf of the recently departed Parson Valdrek was by now in the air as simultaneously Carmilla and Adolpha also thrust themselves into the danger zone. Breathing deeply, their anxiety was not exaggerated as suppressed desires to scream out their deadly intentions were surprisingly adhered to. It was imperative they all arrived in silence to conclude the chosen fate of the marked for death beast. Meanwhile the puzzled white werewolf thrashed out at everything within sight in the wagons shaking rear. It soon became obvious the lack of victims would see the beast migrating to the confirmed presence of Aurelia. There was now a few precious moments remaining before she was within the attacker's grasp. Swiftly positioned to outside the wagon the three retribution focused vampires prepared to enter the wagon's rear to unleash their wrath of revenge! The time had for heroics was upon all as they began to execute their combined vendetta. The determined vampires entered within milliseconds of the creatures expected thrust forwards to the driver's section of the wagon. However the angered beast was too fast as suddenly it burst through the wooden back panel adjacent to the driver's seat. Shards of broken wood exploded outwards in a symphony of sound, action and noise that was to instinctively see Aurelia rise into the night sky above. Safely out of reach from numerous sharpened canine teeth intending to bring about her demise!

The entering trio of vampires could only witness the exiting rear end of the bounding creature beyond the startled horses that had managed to break free of the wagons hitching's. Pandemonium was abound as a flurry of movement would see failed results by all the involved entities. Only Aurelia had managed to actually succeed at anything! Which was to survive the attack and live to talk of it. Aware of the deadly subterfuge the escaping werewolf continued to rapidly stride away from the attack zone. Strangely at this time the chorus of background wolf howls suddenly withdrew to silence. It was as if collectively they also sensed the danger of the situation, then wisely chose to remain hidden in the shadows. Valdrek swiftly exited the tight confines of the driverless wagon charging into the night. Carmilla and Adolpha, equally determined to involve themselves in the creatures last moments, quickly followed him! The battle of beast and vampire now began a transformation into a race of life and death. Led by the escaping werewolf well aware of the current intentions of his pursuers! Strategically the fleeing beast quickly maneuvered in and out of the densely treed forest. This strategy made it extremely difficult for the trailing trio only, seconds behind him. Aurelia adhered to her master's strict orders and although concerned for the safety of her comrades cautiously traveled towards the castle's safe walls.

If not for the skilled flight technique of the close following vampires the werewolf would surely have returned to the anonymity of the night, destined to continue his bloodlust revenge. The awkward pursuit crisscrossed its way through the tight winding forest. Occasionally the driverless wagon would dangerously appear in the direct path of either the escapee or the pursuers. More than once, just as Valdrek was about apprehend his chosen target, again the wagon's presence assisted the escaping white werewolf. Frustratingly, a once of luck seemed to consistently help this formidable creature avoid capture from all three vampires! How long would this thwarted situation last? The beast's followers silently questioned. Then, once again they confidently moved in for the kill. Only to have a series of low hanging branches obstruct their next frivolous attempt to contain their desired prey. Certain of eventual success, they could only keep the pressure up until the furry white fugitive maneuvered out to more open ground. Minutes later and finally closer, all pursuers felt sure their perseverance would be soon rewarded.

Amazingly though the fleeing creature somehow now increased its speed up again as behind the tiring pursuers diligently stuck to their task at hand. All too quickly the open ground ahead retreated back to closed in forest. Seconds later came the appearance of three distinctive paths for the frontrunner to choose from. Strategically the creature zigzagged until at the final moment it veered off to the right side path. Valdrek wondered if perhaps direction had possibly been predetermined? But for what exact reason was anyone's guess? Moments later the leading out in front werewolf appeared to dramatically tire! At last fatigue was finally a contributing factor and the end of the chase was in sight for the closing in followers. Valdrek reassuringly felt his confidence surge again as he approached to within fifty feet of the beast. Then suddenly a sound reminiscent to that of an echoed cracking whip momentarily captured all three pursuers attention. Then much to their astonishment a trailing line of bright sparking fire quickly ran behind the werewolf as once again it increased speed. Perplexed, Valdrek took a moment to glance over to Carmilla and Adolpha in silent gesture questioning the strange events currently taking place. This fleeting action would see him fall just a little further behind the fleeing werewolf plus the unusual trail of fire sparkling away as if influenced by additives such as oil and gunpowder.

Next moment without any warning the silhouette of a giant cross appeared ahead of the trailing trio who would now witness an explosion of flames erupting from the trailing fire line behind the werewolf. Unbelievably the crafty creature had somehow led them all towards a clever trap that was fiendishly unleashing its self in front of their very eyes. Fuelled flames instantly reached skywards to unveil a thirty foot burning cross powerful enough to instantly force all to abandon chase! Valdrek reacted by shooting vertically upwards for at least five hundred feet! Self preservation was to see him withdraw completely from the situation without time for concerned thoughts of the other two close by pursuers. Carmilla also acted instinctively as she violently swerved to right where unbeknownst to her a suspended barrel of holy water had begun to release all contents. Within seconds the acid effect of the dripping holy water burned deeply and without mercy to its grounded target! Adolpha had also followed her first instincts, which was to veer off sharply to the left and would ultimately end up in well constructed cage like trap. The impact of the collision left her dazed and comprehensively confused. The weakened females would now fully succumb to the overbearing cross shaped fire raging above both their cowering bodies!

Horribly disfigured a smoldering Carmilla struggled to maintain consciousness while attempting to endure the burning spot fires now breaking out all over her deeply pitted skin. Agonized screams of unbridled terror loudly echoed throughout the nearby forest. The smell of her decaying flesh spitefully wafted up into the night air over to an out of sight Adolpha who could only imagine the terrifying situation of her close comrade's torrid predicament. Each and every scream unnervingly travelled for the entire length of Aldolpha's trapped body. She could only wonder what her fate would be? Hundreds of feet up in the night air a recovering Valdrek found himself short of breath and disorientated. His immediate thoughts hastily reverted his attention back to ground level. However he would find himself unable to observe anything near the giant burning cross purposely positioned near his two incapacitated companions. His immediate dilemma was where had the werewolf disappeared to and what if anything could be done for the overwhelmed vampiress's, trapped both physically and mentally by the menacing cross! This pursuit had fully turned around on the trio who disturbingly now only had one active member of the chase remaining. In an unusual state of confusion, possibly the first time in a hundred years or more Valdrek was forced to consider leaving the grounded pair to continue the fight.

Regretfully Valdrek had no other real choice other than to retreat to safe distance where he could recompose himself in a manor suitable for the tenacious challenge of the moment. Reconciled thoughts rapidly flowed through his mind. Then suddenly, it occurred to him the planned purpose of the trap was not to be the death of the trio but rather the distraction achieved by the success of its actions. Valdrek felt sure the crafty werewolf had always fully intended to hunt down Aurelia as its first priority. Unbelievably this creature had cleverly laid a bait designed to contain them all and cleverly distract their dark hearts! Leaving the beast unburdened to continue on with its enduring quest to completely annihilate Aurelia's family bloodlines. With no viable choice left a mystified Valdrek decided to swiftly return to the castle lair to change Aurelia's impending destiny. In flight back the castle grounds Valdrek suddenly caught the scent of the attacking night predator. He was correct, this evening had always been about one thing only, the demise of Aurelia! How could such an diabolical development engulf them all in such easy fashion? This turnaround was unprecedented! And to think after such a turbulent recent past, he now faced the loss of all his sisters of the lair. The situation was indeed dire, he would have to try to use this predicament as a launch pad for inner strength.

Having returned to the castle a restless Aurelia held no idea of the approaching threat to her very existence! She was marked for death in an extraordinary determined attackers mind. Worryingly, so far this creature had comprehensively achieved every goal set for its self. Surprisingly Valdrek found himself a little flustered. The predicament of being one of the hunted was a new experience as it occurred to him just how busy the creature had been whilst in human form. Normally such careful preparation and perfect execution of a plan would be thoroughly applauded. Even by Valdrek, but when it all added up to the loss of his entire lair he could only fight back as best as possible! The daunting question was is there still time to save Aurelia? Then get back and save to the other two? Never before could Valdrek recall such a perilous situation thrust upon himself and the other normally untouchable night residents of the lair. Disturbingly, the battle for survival had perhaps only just begun and the odds had now swung significantly in the white werewolf's favor! In the castle Aurelia found herself frantically pacing the stairs and passageways of nearly every available space, such was her level of anxiety. All recent feelings of a powerful reborn existence had suddenly diminished, even before any knowledge of the recent outcome of the chase. How could she ever know the danger now honing in on her very being. If the beast continued the successful strategy of the hunt, Aurelia may not even have the chance to acknowledge its presence before being attacked. Surely only master of the lair, Valdrek sustained the required endeavor to save her.

Listless movements only confirmed her worried sub consciousness 'What if it all somehow went horribly wrong? Resulting in her ultimately being the last of their kind.... her new kind?' This really was a bizarre twist! Aurelia had never once desired or even contemplated a solitary existence as a mortal outcast, condemned to roam to the night by herself forever more!? Disturbingly her blood thirsty avenger had now reached the prized target of the castle lair! A castle vacant of all usual residents, except the desired target of its deadly rage. For the beast, the situation could not have been better. A powerful leap would witness easy entry gained via an open low lying window. Simultaneously Aurelia stopped pacing, sensing a possible breach of security? A short time later she concluded her mind was merely playing tricks on her after no immediate threat was detected. This was an eerie night and it was no surprise for the mind of even an immortal to become wayward in all assumptions. Aurelia was fast learning even vampires sometimes get scared of things that go bump in the night!

With access gained the white furred predator set about systematically searching the grounds of the castle. Including the high up guard's platform, to each and every one of the master bedrooms and sitting rooms. Even the old unused servant's quarters were thoroughly investigated in the mission to find the unknowing Aurelia. Amazingly they passed close by each other a number of times while they both moved throughout the castle passageways. Undoubtedly it was only a matter of time before sooner or later a chance meeting would occur. At which point all hell would break loose! Outside the castle grounds Valdrek concentrated all flying abilities forwards, in the charge to save Aurelia. Meanwhile, back at the burning crucifix the two distraught vampiresses remained in a state of containment, both physically and mentally unable to maneuver beyond the reach of the flaming cross. Overcome by pain the smoldering Carmilla repeatedly tried to move past her puddle of festering flesh, attempting to reach the caged Adolpha. However the flaming constraints of God would not allow for any such movements. While the fire continued to burn there would be no escape! All they could was to exchange calls of solidarity to each other.

Full of growing frustration Aurelia once more reached the bottom of the grand stairwell of the castle. This time she allowed herself a moment's recovery as she sat on the steps, the feeling of the cold stone rising up through her body was a welcome relief from the flurry of thoughts currently going through her mind. It was a two second reprieve from the present circumstances taking place beyond her knowledge and sight. After a couple of welcomed moments of averted attention Aurelia noticed a strangely timed dripping sensation. It made absolutely no sense as there was no rain tonight? Why could she then hear this occasionally dripping water? Intrigued, Aurelia began to study all her surroundings, then much to her horror she sighted the white werewolf gazing down upon her from the open space of the floor above. Suddenly the two foes meet eyes and it was only now Aurelia realized the dripping sound was in fact the drool of the beast's threateningly large mouth salivating in anticipation of the her death. Without time to formulate an escape plan Aurelia swiftly rose to her feet as simultaneously the white beast leaped over the handrail of the floor above. Two opposite movements were now in place! One born of self preservation and one born of total annihilation. There could be no telling of which would ultimately be the successful. While rising up to her feet to avoid the impending attack Aurelia concluded the nearest doorway her best escape route. Within the space of less than a second she was retreating into the stairwell of the cellar!

Meanwhile the beast landed awkwardly attempting to swipe her fleeing feet from underneath her. However the speed of the vampire was equal to the task and her exit secured. Although now, unwittingly she had delved deeply into the darkest depths of the old castle's structure. Hurriedly she navigated her flight down the spiral stone stairwell as behind the trailing sounds of the white werewolf regularly impacting the walls could be heard. The beast was close but not quick enough to mount an attack while on the uncertainty of the descending steps. This allowed Aurelia precious seconds to advance further beyond her vengeful hunters reach. Although all too soon she would arrive at the large expanse of the cellar basement, with no further exits to escape from. Aurelia was fully immersed in her very own battle of survival and it was with a creature openly displaying all the acquired rage of its sworn oath to kill her family's bloodlines. Upon reaching the bottom of the spiral stairwell Aurelia felt slight relief her leading position had secured her enough time to seek out a location hidden from her assailant. A split second decision would have to be made then strictly adhered to. Crashing sounds of the arriving werewolf echoed throughout the basement. Then, after so much commotion, there was an unsettling eerie silence abound as the stalking beast chose to quietly claim its prize.

Heavy breathing accompanied every movement of the vengeful beast. The only other audible sound of the cellar was the ever present trickling water consistently running down the far back wall. Frequently the beast's snout raised up high, attempting to identify its chosen prey. However Aurelia's scent was well camouflaged by the other numerous inhabitants of the lair, both living and dead. After all, this had been the recent sleeping quarters for over thirty vampires at one stage. The remnants of their patronage remained strong, even faint smells of long dead humans lingered on as a reminder of just how many mortals were taken by this well fed collection of vampires. It was unlikely the white werewolf would be able to detect her presence by scent alone. Aware of the futility of currently employed methods the four legged hunter now began a systematic search of all coffins. A simple method of nudging the top open until the coffin's interior could be visually examined for Aurelia's presence. Short minutes drew longer as time and time again the search method undertaken achieved no result. Then, suddenly the beast aggressively pounced! Confident of the kill, the predator ripped the wooden final resting place into a pile of broken timber and cloth underlay only to come up empty. There was no doubting this was Aurelia's chosen coffin, however to beast's annoyance, it remained empty at this moment.

Occasional movements from startled bats only added to the drama as incensed, the creature continued its pledged vendetta to extract the very life out of Aurelia. Upon completion of its unsuccessful search of all coffins the aggrieved creature began an examination of all the cellar's cracks and shadows for his intended prey. It would only be a matter a time now before Aurelia's hiding place would be discovered! As more startled bats repositioned themselves to the ceiling the prowling werewolf was alerted to a coinciding flash of movement. Flushed out from her dark sanctuary, she would be vulnerable to the deadly intentions of her attacker! Rapid flashes of light erupted to nearly every corner of the large basement as Aurelia desperately continued her mission to avoid detection. However it was too late as now the beast began to observe where each flash of light eventually settled. The attentive creature believed Aurelia remained hidden from view behind one of the many stone pillars supporting the structure above. Implementing a new strategy, the zigzagging predator rapidly swept across all confines of the large room. This new tactic soon achieved success as a surprised and exposed Aurelia was forcefully deflected into the back wall. Seeking to maintain the momentum of the attack the creature instantly lunged forwards to her position.

With only half a second to spare Aurelia somehow managed to defy to the creatures ambitions. As next it solidly impacted the wet stone wall, then slid off slightly disoriented to land a short distance away. Quick to refocus, the infuriated creature examined all nearby supporting pillars in the knowledge its desired prey would undoubtedly be positioned behind one. In an attempt to flush out Aurelia the crafty werewolf ran at the back wall then rebounded back at a different angle. Allowing for a snap view of a freshly sighted Aurelia, hastily making her way to another pillar. Without a moment to spare the tenacious creature suddenly impacted the chosen pillar of Aurelia's hiding place. The column was hit so hard that a mortified Aurelia screamed out in terror as suddenly stone sections above began to crumble away to the ground below. Having achieving success with this tactic, this aggressive action was quickly repeated. As over a short period of time a number of support pillars began to crumble away. Leaving the trapped Aurelia with less and less options at every occurrence. Time was fast running out for Aurelia who again instinctively maneuvered to the rear of the massive dark cellar. Frustratingly, her arrival would see another mass migration of disrupted bats. This again alerted a vengeance driven hunter to where she held position. At great pace the white werewolf skillfully intercepted her next fleeing movements. With the end result being both Aurelia and the werewolf forcefully impacting an increasingly weakened wet wall.

Noticeable sounds of expanding cracks and the creaking echoes of freshly displaced bricks and mortar crept throughout the old sub ground level room. First to recover from the harsh impact was Aurelia as next she looked, only up to see her adversary preparing to pounce upon her! Without delay the creature lunged forwards knocking Aurelia flat to her back! Desperate arms held out firmly to ward off the snarling salivating fangs of the werewolf. While swinging her head from side to avoid the dripping saliva of the overpowering beast Aurelia soon found herself reluctantly immersed into the memories of her attacker! Under the worst of circumstances, Aurelia was only just now discovering her hidden extra sense, touch memory. Incredibly, through contact with the beast she suddenly relived all the distorted anger and experiences of a much maligned life. Alongside the white werewolf, Aurelia experienced a plethora of horrific prejudice and misguided beliefs! Against her will, Aurelia curiously found herself strangely sympathetic to her angered attacker's plight. Disturbingly, Aurelia now witnessed the many unjustified torture sessions and discriminations upon the caged white beast. Sadly came the next installment, vivid visions of her adopted father and his actions taken to set about all this rage. Then, for just one fleeting moment she held her head perfectly still, only to see the creature looking deeply into her eyes. However there would be no reprieve as again snapping teeth lunged forwards at Aurelia's defensively moving face.

Although defiant in her resistance, Aurelia could feel all resolve start to weaken as the constant pressure from the creature above began to sap all of her strength reserves. Surely it was only a matter of time before she would exhaust the last remaining elements of resistance. While Aurelia's staunch defense gradually weakened her attacker somehow seemed to find extra strength, confident in the knowledge of certain victory. In acceptance of her looming fate Aurelia allowed herself last thoughts of her life and family. Every second from this point forwards was borrowed time as weakened arms began to slowly succumb to the constant pressure above. Suddenly a mysterious strange flicker of light caught her attention. To grateful disbelief it was a charging Valdrek! Moving so quickly that by the time she confirmed her thoughts, he was crunching the werewolf into the nearby wall. The instant release of pressure from above instantly allowed Aurelia to return to an upright position. Where she would now view the brutal confrontation of Valdrek and a winded werewolf. Visibly gasping for a much needed lungful of air. A series of repeated strikes to the head of the snapping beast would see an overwhelmed creature begin to lose consciousness. Sensing the opportunity to extinguish this menacing threat once and for all Aurelia summoned up enough strength to heave a large stone brick onto the werewolf's exposed ribcage.

High pitched shrieking sounds reminiscent of a fatally wounded hound dog immediately invaded all confines of the basement cellar. Confident with the damage done, Aurelia felt instant relief at the sound of her savage attacker's certain demise! Meanwhile Valdrek maintained his raged attack of clenched fists to the cowering creatures head. It was an easy task for the aggrieved Valdrek to find spiteful inspiration. As vividly he recalled the agonizing sounds his captured disfigured comrades back at the burning cross. Grimacing in pain the werewolf twisted and contorted with every strike from the two vampires rejoicing in the turnaround of events. Finally it appeared an ounce of justice had come their way. Valdrek could feel the shattered bones underneath each of his ferocious punches being pulverized. Having relieved the dying creature's life long torment only moments beforehand. Aurelia found herself experiencing slight remorse at their hate driven response to the flailing would be attacker. Aware the regret in her eyes, Valdrek swiftly reminded her of their two comrades horribly suffering under the burning cross. Aurelia now reconciled misguided thoughts into another burst of aggression onto the beast. With the beast showing no indication of consciousness the pair finally relented. The experience was so vicious and so unexpected, even the well trained hunter of the night that is Valdrek felt a little unsettled. Breathing deeply he was quick to offer a reassuring to a relieved Aurelia.

However there was one last nagging last detail niggled away at Aurelia's concerned mind. For some reason the defeated creature had not yet reverted back to the human form? The beast was dead, wasn't it? Then to their utter disbelief the blood stained werewolf resurrected its self then bellowed out a disturbingly defiant howl to signify the fight was not over! Perhaps the real confrontation had actually only just begun? In reaction to this, the vampires now dived off in the knowledge their attack must be mounted on two separate fronts to achieve their objective. Again the beast viciously lunged at Aurelia, only to see her duck and weave herself away from its destructive path. Meanwhile Valdrek had lined up the charging werewolf for another hard impact into a nearby support pillar. Success! The beast struck the stone column extremely hard and was momentarily short of breath. Aurelia took the chance to send her highly raised elbow into the panting head of the beast. This was an effective maneuver resulting in the cowering down of the white beast. Not content to see all the glory go to Aurelia Valdrek quickly pounced feet forwards, sending the bewildered white werewolf into the next support pillar. Again there was an almighty crunch as flesh bone impacted stone.

The combination of a two pronged fighting force worked well as time and time again they each delivered a series of devastating blows to the weakening creature's head and torso. Panicked Gasps for oxygen indicated the tide had finally turned in the relentless vampires favor! The time for final victory was near as Valdrek stood over the wincing canine predator. Next up he grabbed a lifeless leg to initiate a rapid swinging motion, guaranteed to send the werewolf into any desired target at great velocity. Valdrek decided the dark cellar's back wall to be the perfect destination. He released his firm grip to watch the spinning body of the struggling beast strike the wall. The white werewolf struck with such force that a steady stream of water instantly began gushing out from behind the wall's stone bricks. An echoed sound of death was prominent as the creature's body flattened out for its entire length then fell limp to the wet floor. Within another second, Aurelia delivered an extremely malicious kick to the head of the defeated attacker. Valdrek now spoke, declaring this epic battle of wits was truly over and that the bloodied body of the beast had lost not only the will to fight but also to live! He was confident a change back to human form was only moments away. Cautiously they watched on, while slowly retreating back towards the stairwell. It was time to return to the trapped Carmilla and Adolpha.

Meanwhile above them the continued sounds of the castle's decay had set in. Creaking shuffling earthbound movements resulting from the collateral damage of the confrontation would now see the stability of the entire structure comprised! In disbelief, suddenly Aurelia pointed at the crawling body of the supposedly dead and defeated werewolf. Surely there was no fight left in the creature after the dogged pounding the two vampires had just delivered upon it? Unabated, the determination of the beast was undeniable. However such a showing was now only pride Valdrek reassured himself as the crawling body became engulfed by a steadily increasing flow of water. 'This must end now' Aurelia cried out as she went to charge forwards! Instinctively though, Valdrek grabbed her arms! Then to their utter astonishment the beast rose up to resume the attack. Although, just as it did so a large section of the ceiling collapsed downwards to trap it under a ton of rubble! Fuelled by rage their contained adversary violently swung its head from side to side, attempting to free its self. Surprisingly enough this method of escape appeared to be working as worryingly one of his front legs appeared out from under rubble. Aurelia screamed in shock 'It can't be!' Then just as it appeared the beast would completely free itself another large section of ceiling dropped down.

This next section impacted the ground with such force that a number of other ceiling sections began to haphazardly drop from all parts of the large room. The castle above was now in the unstoppable process of total collapse! Their natural instinct was to quickly fly up the stairwell out to freedom but until the beast could be confirmed dead neither vampire was willing to exit the crumbling room of decay. Edging back to the structurally stronger stairwell section Aurelia and Valdrek watched on as time and time again more debris pounded down upon the trapped aggressor. Then finally, the largest part of debris witnessed so far fell upon the creature to completely flatten out the exposed head and fronts legs. The flow on effect of this collapsing ceiling would no doubt end at their stationary position. Seeking closure, they watched the last remnants of the white werewolf's body become submerged under a massive amount of constantly falling rubble. The time to exit was only seconds away and as yet there was no confirmation of victory? Apprehension would soon force them both to take just one more retreating step into the stairwell as now all adjoining sections of stone from that part of the structure also began to crumble. Valdrek insisted to a now panicked Aurelia to hold firm until the task's completion could be confirmed.

The pile of rubble where the creature lay amazingly began to bulge upwards, indicating a life form did indeed remain underneath! Then just the creature's head emerged from the falling earth above it was revealed the beast was now reverting back to human form and confirmed death! As they stood anxiously waiting to escape, finally they witnessed a large rock land directly upon the trapped human's head. The impact was fatal as exploding sections of bone and flesh splattered out to all directions! At last! Confirmation of death to one of the toughest adversary's Valdrek had ever come across. A relieved Valdrek couldn't help but to think of how vengeance is such powerful inspiration. However the quest for vampire survival was far from completed. Without delay they swiftly flew up the stairwell and through the falling pieces of castle all around them. Moments later they both valiantly burst through the cloud of grey and brown smoky dust erupting out from beneath them. They had miraculously survived the fight and the escape! It was now time to save Carmilla and Adolpha.

Last Goodbye

Anxiously flying back to the others, without spoken word they each exhibited undeniable pride in the achievement just accomplished. Gratefully Aurelia could now finally rest assured her adopted family lines remained intact and ready to continue their linage. Perhaps one day Aurelia would reveal herself to them and attempt an explanation of what she had endured to save them, perhaps? But that was in the future, the present held the conundrum of the burning cross and the two-grounded Vampiresses trapped by the magnetic powers of God. To pry evil away from its grasp was not going to be an easy task for the two triumphant werewolf hunters. Approaching the cross from up high Valdrek and Aurelia heard the thunderous sounds of a nearby storm. With this storm would come much needed rain to extinguish the flames flickering up from the holy wooden cross. Then, just as soon as pondered, suddenly a great downpour engulfed the two grateful rescuers beginning their descent to the ground. Torrential rain continued on as the pair of vampires aspired to relinquish the captives of the white werewolf's last diabolical deeds. Although experiencing intense feelings of weakness, both Aurelia and Valdrek began the arduous search for the worryingly quiet members of the lair. Apprehension soon combined with high anxiety as desperately their calls filled the night's stormy air!

If their two wounded comrades did in fact remain on this hallowed ground then they would find a way to free them a resilient Aurelia told her self. After all they had just defeated the white werewolf. Surely this next task would be of little consequence to these all conquering werewolf hunters! Anxious calls continued to seek out lost comrades until finally an ounce of hope came via the barely audible reply of a caged Adolpha 'Over here, I am over here' her broken voice announced. Valdrek and Aurelia soon arrived to witness the trapped Adolpha, securely contained within a iron re-enforced cage like jail! At first glance it appeared disturbingly impenetrable 'Don't worry, somehow we will find a way to break you out of this' a quietly concerned Valdrek reassured the gazing on Adolpha as next she questioned Carmilla's fate? 'What do you know of her current whereabouts?' Standing in silence Aurelia tried to look confident as then a south pointing Adolpha stated 'I last heard her screams over there'. Instantly Aurelia took off to find the grounded Carmilla. The following seconds would lay witness to one of the most horrific sights Aurelia had ever encountered, either as mortal or as one of the undead! Despairingly, she would now identify the disfigured shell of a once strong proud vampiress that was Carmilla.

The exposed bone and putrid smelling dripping flesh of Carmilla's raised up arm forced a noticeably mortified Aurelia to gaze away in terror! Desperately she wondered how she could ever possibly help this severely depleted example of a once revered nightworld warrior. Basically, there was very little of her body remaining intact to even hold! Moments later an equally shocked Valdrek arrived to offer his assistance to a centuries old friend. Somehow Carmilla managed to display an unforgettable dignity as she desperately pleaded with the two shocked onlookers to return to the task of Adolpha's escape. Accepting Carmilla's fate, Valdrek ordered Aurelia back to render any possible aid to the worryingly contained Adolpha. Upon arriving back the wood and iron plated cage Aurelia questioned the whereabouts of the foot long daggers? It was hoped to somehow use them as escape tool. However Adolpha then frustratingly announced the unimagined authority of the large burning cross forced them both to instantly drop their weapons in despair. The current whereabouts of these weapons would be anyone's guess? To make matters even worse, time was fast running out as came the realization the sun's morning ritual of rising of the horizon was now only minutes away!

Upon the realization that all their many and varied attempts to breach Adolpha's constraints were manifestly futile. Valdrek now considered this was all part of the defeated white werewolf's grand master plan! A simple strategy designed to prey on the closeness of the lair. The scheming werewolf had contemplated in the event of such a situation the steadfastly loyal residents of the lair would continue all efforts to assist their comrades escape any trap until the absolute last second. Thus also offering the distinct possibility they too would become exposed the rising sun's deadly power! Vexingly so far, the demised creature's strategic planning had been unnervingly correct in all of its assumptions. Here they were with only minutes until their impending death, desperately trying to fashion out an escape for the remaining sisters of the lair. Acknowledging the precise planning of the beast Valdrek decided to carry what was left of Carmilla to be with Adolpha for their last moments! Tears of despair quickly flowed upon Adolpha's sighting of the maimed vampiress, Carmilla. Withering in pain and shock the brave Carmilla insisted for Adolpha to stop these heartfelt emotions and to concentrate on her escape. In a last ditch effort to find the daggers Valdrek took to the air as ominously he noted just close the sun was to rising up to kill them all!

Valdrek truly loved all his loyal ladies of the lair with his blackened heart and soul but necessary self-preservation would force him to make the emotionally devastating choice of forced retreat. After all, it was highly possible he and Aurelia were now the last of their kind? Plus there was also the conundrum of where to retreat to? Recalling the castle was no longer an option. Back on the ground Valdrek mournfully looked at his two old friends then declared it was time for him and Aurelia to depart. In bitter acceptance of her chosen fate a tormented Carmilla spitefully cried out 'Aurelia none of this would have happened had you not come to our glorious castle home!' Adolpha instantly chose solidarity as without haste she now joined in the verbal tirade 'Aurelia we will meet again in hell you heathen child, trust my tidings, in hell!' Lost for words at the embittered contempt on display Valdrek chose only to state 'I will love you both forever, but our kind must go on to survive this ordeal, goodbye my loves' Distraught, Aurelia offered to stay with those condemned to death as proof of her sincerity! With no intention of living in eternity alone, Valdrek was selfish enough to deny such an undertaking as suddenly he grasped Aurelia's arm and thrust her up to sky next to him. As they exited upwards came one last cry of 'Dam you both to hell ....Dam you!' Valdrek chose not to look back, sadly all hope was gone.

The terrifying implications of what a rising sun would do their bodies could be seen in the panicked Aurelia's eyes. She now questioned an equally worried Valdrek where they could possibly take sanctuary? Lost for a plausible solution it occurred to Valdrek that even from the grave the werewolf may have just spitefully defeated them all. Then, suddenly in a burst of inspiration Aurelia pointed to her family's farm barn. It was without doubt their only remaining hope as swiftly a grateful Valdrek changed course to the perceived safety of the rickety old barn. Without questioning the validity of Aurelia's fortuitous suggestion Valdrek hastily led the way into the peek roofed structure and then flew to the darkest section of the high ceiling. Gripping firmly, he held Aurelia's hand in the hope the rising sun could not penetrate the old thatched roof. Realizing they were possible only precious moments more of this existence? Aurelia thanked Valdrek for his efforts and explained she could die satisfied in the knowledge her adopted family were truly safe. Valdrek proudly replied 'If this is my ending, I will go to hell in the knowledge I existed with as much dignity as one of the creature's of the night can possibly obtain. I have always believed, even in the after life there was an opportunity for honor! To know I did not let you down is a thought I will take with me into the next world'

Seconds later the bright suns destructive rays burst through all the open cracks of the structure. Perilously just missing Aurelia by inches! Then after a deep breath they suddenly both concluded they had survived the harrowing ordeal that was the white werewolf! Disturbingly though, they could now hear spine chilling screams of agony from exposed and decaying vampire flesh in the close distance. Aurelia curiously wondered if only immortals would hear the death of their comrades of the night? This was a question she wisely chose to leave unanswered as now she observed the torment on Valdrek's face. It was as if a part of him had also just died, perhaps in a way it just had? Some things are better left unanswered Aurelia consoled her self. They now both closed their eyes to begin an uncomfortable sleep while hanging upside down at the high peek of the barns thatched ceiling. It was far from perfect, but it was at least a chance at survival. The remainder of the day seemed to quietly pass them by as both experienced unsettling recollections of the previous evenings events. Subconsciously Aurelia relived the many calls of her name by all recently involved in her life. Somehow she would even recall the sounds of the werewolf's previously unheard human voice! Perhaps maliciously calling to her from the dead? It made for a very uneasy sleep! So much so that she soon awoke, only to realize the sound of her name was currently being called in the world of the living?

Shaking her head to gather confused thoughts Aurelia came to realization her last living cousin Gerhard. Had discovered their presence in the barn and to make things worse Valdrek was now awoken by the repeated calls of her name. This was indeed an unfortunate occurrence because Gerhard had unknowingly just sealed his fate by waking the ancient vampire named Valdrek. Remorsefully Aurelia understood Valdrek could not allow for their time in the barn to be discovered. Watching on in horror, Aurelia despondently now witnessed Valdrek slowly release his grip from the ceiling to free fall down to the straw covered ground below. Instantly she followed him as vainly she pleaded for her nephew's life! However deep down she was fully aware it was all ultimately all to avail as Valdrek decreed the nephew's untimely arrival a threat to the tenuous continuation of the vampire breed. Aware of Aurelia's heartfelt pleas for mercy Valdrek swooped upon the fleeing child about to exit the barns large doors. Both child and vampire soon hit the ground as then the following second Aurelia joined the tussle, unsure of exactly what she was trying to achieve? The killing or own kind or saving her new kind? It was an earnest dilemma with no easy answers. Valdrek understood the remaining humanity within her had reacted as expected and that he could not begrudge her loving motives.

However the child was indeed a threat as now he started to scream out terrified shrieks of panic. Leaving Valdrek no choice other than to cover his mouth! He would then graciously offer Aurelia the ultimatum of the child's death by his fangs or hers? Tears rolled down a melancholy face as the present situation dictated an immediate answer to possibly one of the hardest questions she had ever faced. Lost amongst indecision and so many clouded thoughts of a once happy existence, Aurelia's memories were sharply torn apart into a number of directions. Silently glaring back to a remorseful Valdrek she lunged forwards, then viciously inserted her sharp elongated fangs into the crying child's neck. Soon his lifeless body fell to the ground as on her knees a distraught Aurelia fell to her knees and wept at the cruel turn of events leading up to this moment. Watching on Valdrek understood the pain experienced in the same way Aurelia understood there had been no other viable option. Rising to her feet she dragged the boy's pale blood drained body to behind a nearby pile of hay. Valdrek looked her straight in the eyes then proclaimed his sorrow. Aurelia remained steadfastly silent as she nodded an understanding of Valdrek's genuine sincerity. Sadly, the instant Gerhard had discovered them both his fate had been determined for the worst. There was just no other way, Aurelia reconciled to herself as together they gratefully now noticed the sun was about to set.

Looking to the pile of straw and hay where the deceased boy's body lay, Aurelia and Valdrek surmised the recent situation was nothing more than sheer bad luck. Had the boy arrived only moments later they could have escaped out to the waiting world without any harm to her last living cousin. Aurelia was learning that even the world of the powerful night creature known as the 'Vampire' had associated mortal drawbacks. Ironically this had been one of them. Slowly walking to the door Aurelia was alerted to the calls for Gerhard to come in for his dinner, without haste Valdrek grabbed her arm and took to the night sky. As they retreated the calls loudly echoed through air behind them. Moments later the screams of a family in despair filled the night! Sadly, it was at this moment Aurelia knew she could never return home. Valdrek then squeezed her hand to reassure her there always going to be someone close by on this strange new journey for both of them.

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My other titles are in my profile

Rod Seeber
