135 Years Ago

Damus Canyon

Leadus Province

Thick unforgiving tension stressed the sectioned room of the tent beyond the point of discomfort, making it impossible to breathe in front of the council of Elders. Each one more intimidating than the last with their murderous gazes fixed right on me. This wasn't a real meeting. It was just another moment for these people to enforce their superiority over me. Every time I was summoned before them this was what happened; a stare off until I withered and faltered under their intensity. But not this time. I fought the urge to flinch or step back when one moved in my direction. They would get nothing out of me.

It was foolish to be so bold in front of such high ranked warriors. These were the longest living of the Opsona race, each one with harsh silver hair and age-faded eyes. A century was nothing to them, just another unit of which to measure the passage of time. The oldest souls in existence, perhaps even older than most lower level deities that the varied races of the worlds worshiped. It wasn't their age I feared or their skills as I forced eye contact, it was the knowledge that these men and women all strived for one thing—my death.

They murdered things like me for sport and took on stronger villains for pleasure to test their skills. I wouldn't stand a chance against one of them let alone fifteen. Then there was the matter of those outside of the tent, a whole encampment of my estranged brethren. I couldn't stop them if they felt tonight was the night to end my embarrassing existence, but I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of cowering either.

Each Elder was poised on the edge of caution as they stared at me, eying my every subtle movement, expression, a single flinch—anything that could grant them a reason to strike me down. I was used to it. Didn't matter where I went, which clan I tried to find a place in, even the group of tainted outcast Opsona looked down or away when I entered. Nothing like me had ever been created before.

"You are an abomination to this race and creation herself." The large Elder in the front growled flashing his disapproving gray eyes.

Clearly the leader of the group as the others inched back, passing glances between themselves. Glances that held questions and uncertainty—what do they have planned for me?

Puffing out his chest to rise his figure just slightly taller than mine, the leader glanced down in my direction flashing his superiority like some alpha male in the prime of mating season. I didn't know this man any more than I knew my estranged mother, but I hated and envied him all the same. Intricate markings adorned his face and hands in overlapping patterns that suggested a tribal heritage but were more flowing than angled. I wanted those markings. I wanted the honor and pride they represented, something to show I belonged among these people, but they would never allow that.

This man was of the Silade Discipline as evident by the bold black color of his tattoos, fifth degree indicated by the swirl pattern repeating upon the back of his left hand, extending down over the first and second knuckles. The black knots tattooed down the right side of his face said he was a more physical, brute force type of warrior, a heavy battle ax no doubt his weapon of choice. More of the same Opsona markings wrapped around his biceps telling of his magical abilities of which there were few. On the side of his neck was the tattoo I coveted the most. The Opsona crest drawn across his weathered skin, the black mark of pride weaving and bending to the contour of his flesh. I wanted that mark, but they would kill me if I ever dared to brand myself with that honor.

These people—this man—were not to be fooled with. No Silade was to be fooled with. Unlike the Dexnu Discipline, those with white tattoos, the Silade were merciless and inflexible. They took the Opsona tradition of pride and honor very seriously, everything in the world that was not blessed by the Virtuous ones was wrong. I was wrong and they would love to correct that.

"I've heard this all before," I replied in an insubordinate manner. After twenty-five years of cowering before these people I didn't care. My life was a torment, being in front of them only made it worse. I wanted it over with.

"Why did you summon me here?"

The shock from my disrespectful response washed over the crowd of Elders, the other four Silade in the room glared in my direction with murder in their eyes. The rest started to whisper glancing at me with their own disgusted and resentful looks. They hated me for what I was. A dark mark on the Opsona, a thing which was spawned from a moment of pure insanity on my mother's part. It didn't matter that I never asked to be brought into this world, or that my mother was still one of the most highly respected warriors in all the clans despite her treason. Unclean blood, a demon's blood mixed with mine. I was nothing more than a target to them.

Not even the tainted Opsona welcomed me, the ones who had become infected with darkness or gave themselves over to it willingly for some type of gain. It wasn't unusual for an Opsona to be captured in battle and then tainted by their captives, by mingling their blood with an Opsona an Underworld creature could make certain they would not be reborn. It was an effective method of permanent disposal.

Other tainted were chosen by the Elders to give themselves over to Underworld creatures to gain strength, power, or knowledge in order to fulfill the Opsona mission. They were all like me, damned for spiritual death once our lives had met their conclusion and still there was no place for me.

My father refused to acknowledge my existence. The bastard had turned me away as well because I had Opsona blood running through my veins and they were the enemy. I was a child of twisted fates that had no place to belong.

You're playing with fire Cret. I had to remind myself. I was holding firm in my stance even as the leader took a step forward, my eyes scanning the crowd for any movements that might signal I was in real danger. I was scared, and I would be foolish not to allow myself to feel the fear. These people could kill me with no regret, just breathing was enough reason to strike.

"I should kill you where you stand!" The venom dripped off every word that passed the leader's cracked lips.

"Then do it," I challenged back. A few of the Elders inching their hands toward concealed weapons. "What's stopping you?"

The Silade Elder looked at me disappearing into deep thought. He had to be entertaining the idea of my death, the pleasure my blood would bring spilt upon the rusted red earth floor of the canyon. There was too much satisfaction in his eyes for him to be thinking of anything less. My fingers twitched on edge, the sharpened point of tension that was continuing to build was urging me to draw my weapon.

Are you mad? The voice inside my head screamed. I was provoking the moment but I didn't care. I was sick of this game. Sick of this life and all its devils. Would death be that bad?

The leader let out a small huff of a laugh before speaking again, "I wouldn't want to dirty the ground with your mingled blood."

My father's rage boiled deep inside me, it was hot tempered and the draw to let it rage was tempting. I was sure with my demon blood I could take two or three out before they put me down. That would be a good death, but I didn't want to give them that satisfaction. The idea of death suddenly lost its appeal and I drew my rage back.

"This is a waste," I gave one last snip as I turned my back and headed for the entrance. Turning my back on all these killers was insane, but I had a feeling there was a reason I had lived to see twenty-five. A reason they didn't kill my mother the moment she was impregnated with such a filthy child.

"You have not been dismissed," the leader yelled after me. "We have things to discuss."

Drawing back the thick fabric flap that sectioned the tent I flicked my hand over my shoulder to dismiss his command. I was done with these people, with this life. Rustling footsteps followed behind me, but I was already in the main room of the tent heading for the last cloth door that would lead me out into the shadows of night. Once out there I could lose them. Shadows were my realm not theirs.

I darted through the entrance and hit something, a wall of some type that sent me stumbling back into the tent. The Elders following me stopped as a tall woman entered. She was slender with a stern motherly look upon her face. Knowledge filled pale green eyes. A sweet rosy smell fluttered into the room when she entered but there was nothing soft or sweet about her look. It made me feel like a child being scolded.

"Pardon me," I said trying to move around her but she turned to her right as I tried to pass, blocking my exit once again. "Move," I growled trying to her left only to have it blocked again.

"Show some respect mongrel," the old leader commanded from behind me, but I ignored him.

I needed to get out of this place. The anger of my demon had brought me to the edge of my feeble control. The last thing I needed was to rage around these people that so longed to see my death. I ducked to her right quickly and I was stopped again.

Through clenched teeth I ordered one last time, "Move!"

The woman's straight mouth inched up in the corners, a grin widening her lips as her gaze shifted behind me. A few expressions glossed over her eyes before she nodded to the others. Something happened in those moments, some type of non-verbal conversation I was unaware of. I found that to be rather aggravating.

I tried to make one last plea for an escape but the woman silenced me with her own command. "Come with me. We have much to talk about little one."

The urge to lash out bit at my senses but when our eyes met my demon backed down. It pulled away and cowered back to its place. The world of tension fell away and calm overcame me. No one had ever looked into my eyes like that, met my stare as directly as she did. There was no disgust in her eyes or judgment, and as she turned to lead me away I followed. For whatever reason, I followed her with a renewed interest.

Present

Westren Hills of Tentusa Valley

Vrasum Province

Tentusa burned below the rolling hills of sweet lemon grass. Even from the slopes on the western edge of the valley I could smell the alluring scent of pure terror. Mortal emotions wafting up from violent flames—fear, desperation, death. Tempting, tempting death. The bouquet of chaos sending chills of arousal through my chest and down to my curling toes. This was just a prelude to what was to come, tomorrow night it wouldn't just be the city in ruined flames, all of the valley would be destroyed. By week’s end the Vrasum Province would be nothing more than ashed corpses completely under my control. There was nothing that could stop me from taking what I wanted. Tentusa had fallen despite all the defenses that had gathered in the city—the gods feeble storm, Rhea, the mortal sensitive I took care of, and even my own sabotage couldn't stop this moment.

They were all minor stumbles along the path that had only one conclusion. Why did I even bother to prevent this? How could I not want this moment with all its perverse accolades? Even if the city’s demise was premature it was still a moment of pride that swelled in my chest.

That was my sin that burned below, something that would have paralyzed me with grief this morning but now filled me with accomplishment. The creature within that I constantly struggled against now had desires that I could align myself with. We both wanted the same thing, and it felt so powerful. I couldn't care less about Ryder's men washing through Tentusa like a violent pledge, nor how many lives would be lost because of what I did in those tunnels beneath the city.

Sliding my fingers over each other I groaned at the feeling of satin that slipped between them. Fresh blood—Vamdari blood wet my flesh with its darkly sweet aroma. Ryder's fear laced scent still clung to my body, bringing me to a high that needed to last.

"Are you enjoying this?" Cret asked with a type of sorrow in his throat. I didn't envy him that emotion, if I never felt anything but this pleasure again, that was fine. It was all I required.

I felt right for the first time in decades, lost in the twisted delight and depravity that had awakened within. Now with the reminder of his presence it was shattered, the ecstasy gone from the moment as I felt the heat of his body next to mine. He brought anger out in me that took the edge away from my high, flooding the rage right to the forefront of my mind. My creature was distracted by him, churning under my flesh like a caged, wounded animal wanting to attack. Not yet. I tried to soothe it, but we had every right to lash out.

I saw it there in his blood as it trickled down my throat, a memory I had lost, a memory of him and not a pleasant one. That single recovered moment was the key to all my suffering but pulled more attention to the recollection of his delicious blood, that rich honey taste of his still fresh on my lips. Running my tongue along the crack of my mouth I made sure I hadn't missed a single drop of his intoxicating blood. He tasted that good. A sinful sweetness I had never partaken before, it made me crave his death all the more, and the powerful knowledge it gave.

Cret's blood had freed me from that damn serum Vondorian made me drink, and I was thankful for that. The way he so openly gave himself over to me, but I wanted more. Not just of his darkly enticing blood but the secrets that were locked away inside his head. I gleaned so much from him in those swift moments as I drank, what could I learn if I took my time. Sipping from him in long, slow gulps, drawing out every last drop from his veins. The images had me panting with anticipation. I wanted his knowledge, his strength.

"You are enjoying this," he growled.

My fantasies of his death shattered, again he destroyed the moment and caused anger to replace it. His blood unlocked more than just my previous desires for his life-force, the second I took my first taste of him, memories unfolded before me—Cret's memories. Ones that included me. Suddenly I could place that familiar scent of honeyed-clove and those haunting emerald eyes. My scarred heart heated with a warning reminder of the hell I had been living, and it was all Cret's fault.

My raven beauty… I had heard that name before. It passed his lips just before he left me for dead all those years ago. He was the one that took my life from me and replaced it with this new one I had never asked for. Cret murdered me.

"Is that a problem?" I asked only to anger him. I wanted him on the same edge—rage coursing through his body like it was mine. "You know what I am Cret. I won't make excuses."

I glanced at him from the corner of my eye, neither of us were hiding anymore. My glamoured mortal appearance had faded long ago. I now stood beside him in all my raw beauty. A dark thing contrasted against the harsh glow of rain soaked clouds and lightning that filtered through the sky instead of striking downward from the heavens in bolts. Where the temperature had been unseasonably cold when we arrived, it now was warmer, thick with humidity that intensified the electricity flowing through the lingering storm. I could see him clench his hands into tight fists as he stared down at the burning city, the intensity of his green stare reflecting the flames below. The thick attire that hid him so well before was ripped and shredded, dirt and shallow cuts covered his body from our daring escape in the tunnels. I was sure I couldn't look much better, but still I felt dark and beautiful. Like an elegant creature on the hunt, preparing for that final pounce.

"Do you have no compassion?" he questioned with a plea to my humanity. "Those people are suffering—dying because you killed a Vamdari."

"You're welcome." I mocked, my eyes never leaving the entertainment below. "If I hadn't killed that Vamdari you wouldn’t be here, and besides they won't all die. When the sun rises I'm sure there will be plenty of survivors left to feast on in the temple."

The thought of hundreds of scared pathetic mortals cowering in the marble palace of the gods brought a twisted grin to my face. Their gods couldn’t protect them any longer. A distant rumble sounded as a flash of lightning filled the sky with harsh light. A protest to my thoughts perhaps? The divine could cry all they wanted, nothing could stop what was coming.

Cret's body stiffened, his fists shook. That was what I wanted, that was the edge I wanted him to be on. His usual causal demeanor was cracking…Good.

"Damn you Serenity, what are you doing? What plan do you have forming in that demoralized mind of yours?"

"What's wrong. Can't read me anymore?" I laughed at him.

Though it was brief, in my taste of him I gained so much knowledge. Learning quickly how to refuse him access to my thoughts. It left me blind to his intentions as well, but at least it made us even. I chuckled at my victory, losing myself in this newfound power, a new rush that had me feeling undefeatable. My creature became stronger, its rage growing more dominant. I could feel myself slipping—I wanted to slip.

"I thought you were different. That you changed." His voice held a tone of disappointment, a hint of heartache and my creature purred in response. "Where is the sorrow and compassion you showed this morning in the temple?"

I clenched a fist to focus, to hold back my need to strike at the reminder of how pathetic my behavior was. This conversation was lasting too long. I wanted him. I wanted his blood, that power it would give me, and also the sweet taste of closure I had been longing for.

"It's gone. I don't want to feel those things anymore. I shouldn't feel those things. While others like me are consumed by their blood-lust, I'm left trapped by my lingering mortality," I growled in response, fighting back from the edge of hysteria. "I'm devoured by these cursed emotions I shouldn't feel. I didn't change. There was no choice involved. I was changed. Left to rot in agony."

My chest was heaving up and down from my rant, the anger inside had built to a level I didn't believe possible and my mortality was slipping away. Fading into the background of my creature that wanted death while my mind filled with pointless questions I wanted answered.

"You did this to me." I growled like a feral beast. There was betrayal there deep within my rage. Cret must have felt it too because his stiffened stance relaxed when I turned my gaze toward him. He softened and guilt replaced his anger, it only made the moment worse.

My mind flashed to the interest and the clear attraction between us, those confusing moments spent in his room and the sorrow he felt seeing Vondorian's brand on me. It had to be an act. Some false game he was playing to get close to me again, that was what sent me racing toward the edge of control. The burning scar over my heart grew deeper and clenched into a tragic reality—he was using me.

I couldn't think on it anymore, the reasons too maddening and I slipped away to the will of my creature. Letting it take me into the depths of revenge that we both so needed, and then it would all be over. My life would return to that time before Cret struck me down in battle. No more internal conflict, no more questioning Master, no more… hell.

The last horror-filled century of my life would be gone, lost in a sea of power driven cravings like it had before. I would take Cret's life and silence the remnants of my mortal soul.

Guilty realization was the first thing that hit me. I couldn't comprehend what my actions had caused. How they continued to ripple outward affecting Serenity's world. That night I stabbed her my life iced over depriving me of any real existence. I remained in that state for so long until the extreme reaction to a world without her dulled into a set habit of living, if you could call it living. Now I was struck with the reality of what I had done to her, the hell I had awoken Serenity to.

I had been so hopeful when we first encountered each other in the city, hopeful that her memory of me had been lost. Clearly the gods didn't see it fit to grant me that small favor, when and how she remembered didn't matter. Now I had to face the sin I committed against my raven beauty and it was shattering me.

"You changed me," she growled. Hot violent venom dripped off every word enticing my demon to act.

The violence in her voice tugged at it, he loved violence. It was the only language my demon-self spoke and Serenity expressed it with an elegant fluidity. The idea of her expressive nature aroused erotic thoughts instead of the cautious awareness I needed in coming battle. I couldn't lose control now. I hadn't lost control of my demonic side since my younger years when my emotions ruled me more than logic and reason, but I could feel my iron grip slipping. She was drawing it out and my anger was aiding the process.

I wasn't angry at Serenity, not anymore. I felt too much anguish over her predicament, the thoughts of all those long years she lived feeling this way. Trapped by my actions in a hell no other could understand. I was a bastard. Not even her disregard for the living and the pleasure she sought in watching the people below suffer could stifle my misery.

If I was honest—I too derived some type of sick pleasure out of watching that city burn. A release from a small portion of my duty by the tragedy below—that was the demon in me. A nature I could not control or hide from. Those blood-stilling howls from down below was making it worse, this dark pull I was feeling from her…From us. I would lose myself if I wasn't careful.

Would that be so bad?

I ignored the voice in my mind that tempted me, focusing instead on my self-hatred to keep control. I had a second chance at something with Serenity, we were the same, torn between two worlds that would never take us in—a world we destroyed together. I couldn't let her or the mortal world suffer like this. I still had some sense of duty left. If only we had been on the same side of this battle, then maybe I wouldn't be standing here full of anger and heartbreak for what I had to do next. Fate is so cruel.

Turning to face her we locked gazes, a knowing settled in her scarlet eyes. We were evenly matched, I knew it. By the way Serenity's brows narrowed on me she knew it too. The only advantage I had in battle I couldn't use, not with my strength weakened by the fight to escape and the blood she took. No, there would be no slipping into shadows in my state, which left me with the direct approach. Skill against skill but my heart wanted none of it.

The thought of this battle had me bewildered and at the mercy of the demon growing in excitement with each tension filled second that passed. He wanted this, his needs were so simple. The complex range of human emotions had no effect on him. It was his desires itching in the back of my head, a little whisper of persuasion pushing me to make the first move. That would be foolish. With two skilled warriors like us the battle was either won or lost in the first attack, and I didn't want that burden. If I made the wrong move, if my attack failed and left me shaken then I would be the one left dead on this hill.

I could give her that.

If my death would bring Serenity peace maybe being defeated would be worth it, I had already failed Rhea. Lost the city she loved so much—what was left for me beyond this? A long life under the mercy of the Opsona and without Serenity…No.

My father's blood bubbled under my flesh, the demon didn't like that idea. My thoughts only threw it into a rage to break free of my grasp. I felt its foolish need to start this affair as my body changed under its own will. The adrenaline coursing through my veins in preparation for the battle ahead. Powerful and strong, my muscles bulked out and became more defined. Fangs grew from my upper and lower jaws, hungry to taste Serenity's flesh, either in blood thirsty battle or sexual conquest, it didn't matter. Just the thought of her sweet olive skin coated in salty perspiration trapped between my fangs had me growing erect at the most inappropriate moment yet.

All of me wanted her. My demon didn't care how, but I couldn't take her like this. She was full of resentment and hurt, the knowledge of who I was—what I had done had sent her into a state compromised by rage. By all rights Serenity was justified and blinded by her revenge driven desires, but I wouldn't take advantage of that. I wouldn't let my demon take advantage of this situation. If it had its way Serenity would be ours before the night was through. Ravaged by the primitive beast that didn't know how to communicate in a civil way. He would claim what he regarded as his despite any protests. No, I couldn't let that happen. I wasn't that much of a bastard.

Damn if she didn't look enticing. Those raven waves of tussled hair bending to the sweeping winds, scarlet eyes which deepened with savagery causing my dick to twitch. She wanted this battle, who was I to deny her needs?

"Are you really committed to this?" I asked to my demon's protest, offering Serenity a chance to end this before it began.

I watched her for a long moment, steady, thin drops of rain started to fall from the saturated clouds above, and it was then I noticed the shift in her scent carried along the growing winds. The once subtle fragrance of lavender that mingled with the more dominant sage now overpowered even the heavy scent of the coming storm. Her sweet nectar assaulted my senses with lustful distraction causing the demon within to groan with a strange need for obedience. I felt my knees tremble and weaken, an urge to bow before her—this goddess. To drop to my knees and beg for Serenity to make me a servant of her will overwhelmed my reason.

What is happening?

Flexing my wrists into circles and rolling my neck I tried to loosen the odd provoking sensation, as those full lush lips of hers twitched into the most devious smirk. By the gods I could devour that mouth.

That smirk told me everything. She was committed. No stopping now, "till death." Her words whispering over from a subtle gap in her mouth creating fantasies of pleasurably tortured moans drawn from her. Panted breaths escaping from between those soft kiss-swollen lips.

Get control Cret!

My mind's rational voice fell on deaf ears as the fantasies intensified of that mouth of hers devouring everything I would allow. Images of her kneeling before me, taking my size to the depths of her throat with each savage thrust.

Priorities! The voice screamed again giving me back a fraction of sense. I hoped it would be enough to fight against her draw.

Reality suspended for a moment, the storm silenced and hushed waiting on a baited breath. It was here. That brief moment before action. It lived within the fractioned beat of a heart, and remained until the battle's end. Pausing all the world in a single set point in time, pressuring each party to act.

Lavender drifted toward me again, stronger than before and I knew what was happening. That scent, it was her creature. The raging instinct Serenity gave herself over to in battle. I had noticed it when I studied her in the past. Normally the lavender was like a faint ghost that trailed the sage, but in battle—lost within the intensity of combat it grew in strength. Still it had never been this strong before, Serenity was no longer in control. A notion which left me guarded and heated.

Lightning flashed through the sky silhouetting her elegant figure, and then she was gone from sight. I lost her. Panic gripped me for a second before I could make out something rushing in my direction.

The once restrained excitement now flooded through me, rushing the world forward as she grew closer. Serenity dipped into a low stance just before reaching me and then launched upward to strike. A fist heading toward my chin, followed by a knee aimed at my gut. This was pathetic, a timid assault to feel me out. I grabbed her wrist with ease stopping her from making contact and blocked the knee with my other hand.

If she wanted to toy with me I would play along. In a second I had her turned in my arms, restrained and pulled back against my chest causing an involuntary groan to leave my mouth. That heated body of hers was just too much to keep my appetite suppressed. Yes, I want this.

Serenity jerked in my grasp in refusal, the lavender growing even more intense making my demon whimper. I need this.

Pain crept up from my foot where Serenity had dug her heel into bone, and I snarled in warning as it twisted into sick teasing pleasure. She could hurt me all she wanted, my tolerance was high and the demon loved it. So perfect.

Serenity jerked again in my iron grip, her desperation bringing me to life. This battle was just a game so far, a playful banter between two animals. My warrior reason fleeting under my demon's command. The traitor.

We had always worked so well together, in complete sync. My father's blood provided support when I needed it, gave me the strength that I needed, and in turn I let it run wild from time to time. Allowing its inhuman needs to be satisfied, and now it was taking over. Ungrateful bastard.

Pain ran through my hip this time, Serenity had managed to get one arm free in my distraction. Clawing at whatever she could reach, her attempts only brought me closer to the edge and I responded with a moan as the feeling dulled into a sick shiver of wanton seduction. Focus, my warrior mind screamed and I released her with a forceful shove, needing distance between us before I became unhinged.

Raindrops grew heavier, beating down and soaking our bodies. The cool droplets restrained the feverish heat in my veins from burning straight through. Sweet metallic notes mingled with the storm surge causing my chest to heave with labored breath from the pure primal desire clawing to get out. I couldn't keep this up for long, her allure was far too strong.

What is it about her? I tried for some type of answer, anything that would make sense out of this insanity by settling my gaze on the shadowy voided presence that encircled her. Typically I required light and actual formation of a shadow to read a person, but Serenity's shadow was always visible. That unique characteristic one I had only seen on her and Vondorian, but what I glimpsed gave me nothing but more questions.

Usually Serenity's shadowed self was smoky in color, dense and thick with ribbons of violet and subtle orange weaving through. Now the smoky color was so thick I could no longer see through to the landscape beyond and only violets twisted around, the ribbons of color turning into a strangling enclosure around the rest, leaving no orange visible and very little of the smoky base. What was happening inside of her right in this moment, I had never seen anything like it before.

Serenity rushed me again closing the distance I had put between us, this time she didn't strike with some halfhearted attempt to test me. The battle had really begun. Using her claws like a weapon she slashed at me in quick secessions, mad fury driven swipes raced between us in a dance of sensual violence. Some I blocked, others I let make contact with my flesh deriving pleasure from the little pricks of pain where cuts appeared. It drove my arousal to the breaking point. I countered a few attacks, my own claws dripping with her intensely rich blood making this moment all the worst for rational authority.

The gods' storm rumbled above in protest and lightning intensified the charge between us, unleashing a torrent of water that soaked the valley.

This is mine! The demon within me growled.

It had a voice. It never had a voice before, only grunts and groans with basic emotions or desires I could feel. It's speaking.

The thought frightened me enough that I lost focus, Serenity's claw sliced across my shoulder. The searing irritation quickly had my mind back on the battle. I trapped her against me in a flash of movement, her chest pressed against my front, arms pinned under mine at her sides. Serenity shifted and struggled against my restraint and I couldn't fight it any more. My lips slammed into hers.

I need you, the demon growled with its newfound voice.

Twisting my legs around hers I gave a push to throw Serenity off balance, sending her tumbling backward to the ground as I devoured her mouth. I followed the fall of her body, and pinned that small curvy frame of hers beneath mine as I forced my hunger upon her. The battle now forgotten.

Serenity's struggled refusal melted away, welcoming my tongue into her hot mouth and caused my heart to leap with excitement. She was accepting me. Triumph pushed my actions now easing my grip on her body I teased a fang over her lip before taking that mouth once more. A moan passing from my lips and against hers, I took what was mine.

She moaned in response to the second assault and kissed back with more force than I had, my chest rumbled in protest at her advances to overthrow my dominance. Gripping her shoulders I allowed my blade sharp nails to pierce lightly through her soft flesh in both warning and to scent the air with fresh blood.

I pushed deeper into the kiss nipping my fangs at her swollen lips when my vision went white. A deep burn radiated from my side and became the most intense physical agony I had ever felt. Breaking the kiss, my body spasmed from the sudden shock causing my claws to clap down on Serenity, breaking through flesh to bone as she cried out.

My body bucked up in reaction to the new sensation putting a little distance between our entangled bodies, the pain growing as I moved. A tugging feeling drew my attention down where Serenity had buried a clawed hand deep in my right side, it felt like she penetrated completely threw my body. Rejection tingled in the physical pain.

Bitch! The intense new voice of my demon roared inside my mind, the rest of me was too blinded by the numbing discomfort.

My eyes focused back on Serenity and the deep endless scarlet of her eyes started to dim, the scent of lavender weakened as the sage slipped back. Her lips trembled, her hardened gaze softened and blood pooled from the corner of her lips sending panic into my heart. Reality crashed back into the moment and I looked down between us again.

Without a thought—a pure instinctual reaction from my wounded pride, I had drawn that special amber dagger and thrust it into her heart. The baited breath of battle the had hung around us now released tightening my chest with disbelief. This couldn't be real. This wasn't happening again. I looked back to her face for some type of reassurance but there was nothing but struggle. The color draining from her skin leaving the blood that trickled from her lips so rich in contrast, it was really happening. This was real, not another nightmare.

I withdrew the weapon with haste. Her body jumped a little and a gasp of pain left her lips. I didn't care if it caused pain it had to be removed before any permanent damage could be done. I fell back on the grass and drew Serenity into my arms. There was no life without her. It had to be done, that duty drive rationale inside my head spoke up. I didn't listen.

Pushing my hand into Serenity's wound I tried to stop the bleeding, just until she started to regenerate then everything would be fine. Her body could recover from this, she had before.

The bright scarlet of her eyes evaporated into a muted pink and her head fell limp to the side, I could feel her heart as I pressed harder. The beats becoming slower, the space between each pump growing.

"No, no, no, no. Look at me Serenity, you can't give up," I pleaded with her, anguish riddled tears threatening at the back of my eyes.

Pushing her face to look at me I offered her my wrist, my blood would help her pull through this and she could have it all. Every ounce of it. Serenity could drain me into death, I didn't care. I couldn't live in a world without her—not again.

Serenity's head fell limp to the side again and the lush red of her lips iced to a purple. It was happening so fast this time. I forced my wrist toward her lips but they only trembled with a death chill. No, this can't happen.

Bringing my wrist to my fangs I bit down to draw blood, maybe she needed to smell it, the scent of fresh blood was like a drug to a vampire. She wouldn't be able to refuse this time.

Forcing my gashed wrist toward her I knew she would drink. My blood trickled down onto her lips and then she was gone from my arms. Something had pulled me back, ripped me away from her. Stunned I tumbled on the ground not completely aware of what was happening, my world was still dazed with worry.

Serenity… it was the only thought that crossed my mind when I regained myself. Scrambling to my feet I turned to meet Vondorian's glare. Serenity cuddled in his arms as he drew her close to his chest. Relief and jealousy took the place of my panic, he would take care of her. I hated the man but I knew he could save her since I couldn't.

Vondorian glanced my way for the briefest of moments before they both disappeared. Vanished into the stormy night like some type of nightmarish fairytale creature, leaving me to my suffering. What have I done?

Something warm heated my face, contrasting a chill at my side. A haze of confusion clung to me as I started to wake from the most restless sleep, disorientated awareness creeping in. I tried to move, even just shift a little but my body refused. My arms and legs were so heavy, like they were pinned or paralyzed. I decided against moving for the moment. If I was pinned no need to draw attention to my rousing consciousness, and if I was paralyzed I hoped it was only a temporary condition of my groggy state. Cracking my eyelids I tried to draw out some details of where I was, but it prompted pain to stab into my temples and I let them close.

Tracing my memories back to gain some understanding of my current situation, the last thing I remembered was laying in Vondorian's bed and the world spinning. He had dosed me with something. A sweet warm tea-like drink that had a sharp bite of mint or perhaps some other strong herb. I licked my lips to see if I could draw any remaining liquid in hopes it would restore some of my lost time. My tongue was greeted by dry cracked lips but none of that sweet drink Vondorian had served me.

Laying there I tried to draw on another thought, another clue with my dazed senses. After what felt like a long moment of mental struggle my thoughts started to fall into place, fragments of a battle played out in my head. Screams, fire, blood those were all familiar but I still couldn't recapture all of the events. My awareness became more keen the longer I lay there, the warming feeling on my face I was now sure was sunlight but the cold beside me I couldn't place. I battled against the mental exertion to elicit more from my surroundings, where I was would help to fill the gaps in my memory.

I was with Cret…That was all my mind needed to stir anger, and those last moments on top of the hill came flying back. He had stabbed me again, damn him.

What happened after that? Did he leave me to die? I couldn't remember.

Wherever he had left me I wasn't safe. Lying out in the open in the middle of the valley, or worse maybe I was a prisoner. Panic gripped at my chest and my body jumped awake with instinct, forcing my eyes open I rolled to my side and soreness stabbed through my chest stopping my efforts. I was too weak. My wounds weren't healing. Clenching my whole body I couldn't fight to keep my eyes open any longer, instead I just lay there, surrendering for the moment to my injuries. This was serious, but at least now I could understand my confusion with my returning senses.

I had lost control last night—I gave up control. What Cret battled with was nothing more than a wounded animal, how surprising he survived or were my skills really that comprised under my creature's influence?

Waking from my creature's hold was no different than waking from a long disorientating vampiric sleep, my memories so faint at first and without warning they would come crashing back. All the agony and torment I dealt to my victims would return in one swift flood to haunt me. I was relieved that wouldn't be the case this time. No, Cret was the clear victor of this battle, and I was the only victim of my insane rage.

I willed my eyes to open again taking in the blinding sun that burned my vision, I had to know where I was and the extent of my injuries. The sweet breeze of lake air passed over me followed by that now common scent of death, carried along by the burnt aroma of the city. It did little to tell me where I was. I could pick up on those scents anywhere within miles of Tentusa, and my vision did little to aid. All I could make out were blurred colors and hazy outlines before the pain in my head forced them closed again.

"Settle yourself and be still," the familiar voice of my master seized my heart into my throat and I stilled. "Your wounds are serious and far from healed."

Fear overtook the aching pain that held to my body as I lay there helpless with Master so very close, the revelation that I was alive was enough to make me flinch when I felt him move beside me. He was the chill I was feeling, and if I was alive it was because he had a more torturous punishment waiting for me. Vondorian should have killed me or at least let Cret finish what I had provoked, that was the punishment for killing one of our own and for my very blatant disobedience last night.

A throb beat in my temples as my senses fully woke to the moment that could very well be my last. The feeling of silk sheets did little to relax me while Vondorian's bitter vanilla scent covered my body. I must be in his chambers. Is this real or some sick nightmare?

His weight shifted beside me on the bed causing a tremble of fear under my skin. The urge to open my eyes drove me to act. To confirm I was back in the manor in Master's grasp yet again. Suddenly the moment just before battling Cret came back to me, the beauty and power. How untouchable I felt and the freedom that clung to me. I wanted that now and wished to never lose it again, but I knew that was a fleeting moment. A chance happening that would never recur as the chilled whisper of Master's knuckles brushed over the side of my face. I knew that touch better than anything.

There was no denying it—I was caged once more.

His touch trailed down my face and across my collar bone to the other side of my body, then down my left arm. It was so gentle and disturbing. Master was never gentle with me, at least not before the most unimaginable torment followed. I knew it was coming, the first blow that would be the gateway to more raw unnatural pain, and it caused me to flinch intensifying the ache of my wounds.

He hushed me and settled that cold hand of his on my chest. "Be still. You will only make this worse."

Make what worse? What do you have planned for me?

My mind raced with questions, seeking answers inside my thoughts to which Master did not give. I could handle the pain. These wounds were my own fault for rushing so foolishly into battle with such a formidable enemy, and now I was at a disadvantage. That dagger of Cret's nearly killed me, and even though I survived there would be lasting damage.

The first time I fell victim to him I woke much like this, my world completely distorted in struggling moments I couldn't recall. As I regained my strength I found my creature was no longer there to aid me. The thing which drove my whispering dark desires was no longer there. I was left to my own thoughts which happened to be far more mortal—a notion which I loathed. It made me weak and less than what I should have been, even after my creature returned, having only been stunned from Cret's weapon, the mortal side of me remained—stronger than before I was struck down.

This time would be no different. My creature was stunned. Wounded and slumbering deep within me. I couldn’t even feel it but I knew it would return, hungry for vengeance and strengthened with rage. It wouldn't be like last time, the faint hum of its appetite gradually seeping in. I would let it come back in a violent roar because I felt the same wounds it did. Our pride and honor were destroyed and we had to recover. I couldn't do that if Master took my life.

That was the fear that caused me to flinch under his disturbingly gentle touches. The fact that I was alive, for now, only meant he wanted me to suffer first. There would be more pain before he freed me, and I couldn't let that happen.

Deep dread overtook me as I forced my eyes open again, this time slower so they could adjust. Still the sun beat down making my vision blurred, but I could manage the discomfort more now. Details of Master's chambers started to come into focus. The balcony was open as it often was. Vondorian liked to stand out there in the twilight, surveying his new domain like some warlord, a great conqueror that owned all that was visible.

Rain clouds still hung heavy in the sky, filled with the first rays of dawn causing them to reflect a burnt orange hue, the backdrop to the blurry outline of my master. He was leaning over me the details of his face still obscure. I narrowed my gaze to focus on him. The angles of his features became more defined until I could make out the most terrifying image of his face. I was met with an affectionate smile like I had never seen, the same emotion reflected in his crimson eyes that sparkled in the early dawn.

Who is this man? It couldn't be my master. The man who had only expressed dominance and torture over me for the last few centuries.

The back of his hand brushed over my face again as I looked at him. "I'm relieved to see you are awake." The soft sweetness to his voice made me cringe.

I could always measure the extent of the brutality I would suffer based on the edge of his voice, or lack thereof. The softer his tone the deeper his rage and the more I would have to endure, but this level of gentleness I couldn't measure. It was off his normal scale and it made me shiver with a deep anxiety that was so foreign a feeling.

Thoughts of what I had left to do, of what I needed to do raced through my mind. I couldn’t be the victim of Master's rage now, I didn't have the time and if death was going to be my end then there were things I needed to finish. Cret crept back into my thoughts flushing the fright of punishment out of me, replacing it with the deep hatred I now reserved only for him.

"Just get it over with," I said out loud. "Give me all the punishment you wish, I know I deserve it, but I beg that you spare my life. I want to live only long enough to kill Cret."

I was blunt and forceful when I spoke despite the hoarse scratch in my throat and the affliction in my heart that held back my strength. I had never been like this with Master. Defiant, yes. Lashing out in anger—a few rare occasions, but this was different. I was cold and distant from the moment and focused. Master could do whatever he willed with me. I honestly didn't care. So long as I could get to Cret and repay him in kind for what he did to me, not just for last night but all those years ago. It was his fault I was so conflicted. These mortal emotions awoke because he stripped me of centuries of difficult training. My pride was beyond repair now. I needed to ease the ache of that injury more than anything.

To my surprise Master chuckled drawing a piece of my raven hair from my face, "I have no intention of harming you, my dear. I believe you have suffered enough for the time being, but there will be a punishment." The warm reassurance in his voice was unsettling, as was the hint of seduction in his last few words.

My head swam with confusion as I tried to figure out his mood, this strange behavior which set off alarms. I looked into his crimson eyes, flakes of gold danced with a mild heat I had never seen before. It was almost like admiration, some type of deep affection. I blinked to refocus my hazy vision sure what I saw in his gaze was an illusion, but when I looked back it was still there. Is he mocking me?

An uncomfortable knot formed in my gut and I suddenly itched for distance between us. I moved to sit up despite the weakness clinging to every limb of my body, Master's hand pushed on my chest and eased me back to the bed.

"Moving would not be wise. Rest for now. I have taken care of everything." He assured me with a sweet smile that edged on the corners of his mouth. I did not reflect the same comfort that his words implied.

"What do you mean?"

"This ordeal will soon be over, and things will be so much different." Those words were so cryptic I raised an eyebrow in question. Leaning forward Vondorian placed a gentle kiss upon my forehead adding, "the world is about to change."

Knots filled my stomach, something about that last statement. The change in his gaze and the finite tone in his voice didn't settle well. It put me on edge as he brushed his fingers through my hair. What nightmare have I fallen into?

"The army arrives this evening to finish the task. The valley will be our nation’s first real victory. I have dispatched Victoria to handle Cret an—"

"No," I growled in violent protest. "I want to kill him!"

Vondorian paused in his sweet motion of his fingers through my hair and I missed it. I was finding strange comfort in his alarming tenderness.

"She won't kill him. I need him alive…For now."

It should have put me at ease that Cret would live long enough for me to recover and finish him, but the idea of Victoria going after him didn't ease my thoughts. I wanted to be the one to handle Cret. I needed to do this. With Victoria on the task there was a good chance Cret could be the victor.

Since we had returned the young maiden to the manor, Victoria had been under Vondorian's influence, ensnared by his strange powers. Slowly she started to turn into something I had never seen, not a vampire or even a lowly ghoul of a servant but something else. She was just a vacant shell of a person, her bright blue eyes that I once envied were now dull and full of malice. I didn't understand how he was able to turn such an innocent into a monster. The angel was nothing more than a golden-haired weapon at the call of Master, all the basic battle skills of a vampire warrior hidden behind a mask of innocence. The child was no longer a lady bred for a royal. She was a masterpiece that had me in awe of Vondorian's abilities.

Still, Cret was skilled, he bested me, and Victoria was far from my level. She didn't have the instincts of a warrior. Cret could handle her. Then again if Cret were wounded, if Vondorian had battled him in his attempt to retrieve me then Victoria could certainly capture Cret. I couldn't let that happen.

My gaze locked onto Vondorian's. It was a sign of disrespect for someone of my standing to look so directly at a lord, but I needed to show him how serious and true my intentions were.

Pure conviction washed over my face as I spoke, "I want to do this, let me handle the boy."

Master's eyes hardened at my words. The soft gentle kindness leaving him for a second as he stared at me, his crimson gaze studying mine perhaps for some falter. I wasn't going to falter. Not this time. He softened again but uncertainty still stared back at me. Master didn't trust me, and he was right not to. I had given him nothing but disloyalty, but I needed this.

"I will not fail you again," I assured in an effort to persuade him.

"I don't trust you not to kill him," my master's words stung me deep with his lack of trust. "Your rage is far too strong."

"He will be intact when I bring him before you, Master. If you give your word I'll be the one to kill him after you have taken what you need." The venom in my voice scared even me as the words came so easily from my lips.

The rage from last night bubbled up from my gut, but the creature inside didn't respond. It couldn't after what Cret had done to me. Now I would have to rely on my own strength, the strength in my purest conviction. I was left on my own and that was fine.

Vondorian looked at me, studying my face for a long moment before he leaned down and whispered close to my ear, his breath oddly warming despite the chill. What was happening to my world? It was all shifting so fast…Stay focused on Cret.

"You haven't healed yet, and even then you lack the strength." The caring reflection in his words only enraged me.

I can handle that boy!

"I can manage, give me the chance or I will take it." The forceful words came out. I didn't understand myself just like I couldn't understand Vondorian's new demeanor.

He pulled away so I could see his face that lingered so close, his vanilla scent no longer holding its normal bitter bite, instead it was warm and inviting. This was a version of Master I could lose myself in… All of myself.

Vondorian let out a light chuckle shifting his body over mine, his large figure pushing mine into the bed in a gentle show of dominance. "You don't have what is needed for this, but you could," he whispered against my lips. He had my interest. "Become mine, give yourself to me and I will give myself to you. Then you will have all the strength, all the power you require for any task put before you. Serenity, you will become my equal. Everything inside of me will be yours to use at your will."

I had heard this offer before and I wanted it even more now than all those years ago when I was young and reckless with decisions. The way his voice was so assuring, the strange affection in his eyes, it seduced me into needing what he had to offer. I would give him my body and soul, even what little free will I retained, and in return I could have all of him. The price seemed more than fair.

Cold immortal kissed lips brushed against mine, a whispered breath passed from his mouth into me as he spoke. "Become my mate and you will want for nothing."

I melted into that idea like I never had before. Memories of the last time he spoke those words to me couldn't touch on the delicate and seducing nature of this moment. There was need but not like the rough violence in the heat of spontaneous passion when he first made the offer.

On that night, so long ago, after spending centuries in his service being the loyal subject I was in my vampiric youth, he finally showed me an interest that so many of his followers longed for. Something I dreamed of, that I coveted since the moment he sired me into this immortal life. I did anything and everything to ensure I caught his eye, but still I would only get passing glances like all the others. As I rose through the ranks I told myself the success was due to master's special feelings toward me. That night just confirmed it as he took me in the shadows of his room, devouring my mouth like it was his last physical meal. He asked me then to become his mate, to bond with him until death pulled us apart, a mutual joining that would make me an equal.

My chest fluttered with satisfaction, I had reached my goal and gone beyond. I only ever wanted him to notice me, but now he would be mine. Vondorian would never look upon another female again.

I wanted to say yes back then, the acceptance right there on the tip of my tongue but he hushed me. Put a cold finger to my lips before devouring them one last time, and then he commanded me to prove my worth to him and take that last outpost. Once Izusan had fallen I was to return to him and become his. I never returned. At least not as the same person he made that offer to. Things changed that night and I hated the man whom had changed them… I hated Cret.

"No," I said at a whisper even when I wanted to scream yes.

I felt a rumble of a growl start deep in his chest and his warm expression fade a little, that was the Master I knew. "Serenity." My name came out of his mouth like a warning, but I shook my head.

"I have to do this on my own." I explained. "I have to prove I can do this…I need to do this."

It was the truth. I would say yes to Vondorian. I would give myself over to him in every way and allow him to claim me just as I would claim him. First, I had to make myself worthy again. Reclaim what Cret had taken from me, and prove I could turn back from this hellish existence and be the proud feared vampire I once was. Then, maybe, the dread that gripped me every time I was about to give in to my desires would leave. I could surrender myself without panic that Vondorian's strength would only make my defiant mortal voice louder.

"Why should I allow you this?" He asked with a devious smirk. "I could take you now, I don't need your approval. I could take you and do what I wish because that is my right as a lord, and you are just my subject. It is my duty by law."

His truth shook me. It was his right to do what he willed with me, the fact he expressed a need for my approval and compliance was special only to him. The other lords and even those below them had taken their share of slaves, forcing them into service with death being the only way out.

He could do just that to me. Claim what he felt was already his without giving me the ability to complete the mating ritual, and in that moment I would become his sex slave… Some trophy to be carried under his arm completely invaded by him. Whatever small fraction of myself I had left would be stripped away. Panic tightened in my chest and washed over into a defiant determination.

"And it's my duty to report your strange behaviors to Overlord Mathus. I think he would be very interested to know everything I have witnessed," I challenged.

Vondorian studied me for another long moment, his warming affection returning as his eyes traced over my face and then down, across my bare neck to the bandages wrapped around my chest. His gaze trained on the swell of my breasts as I took in labored breaths causing the bandages to strain. My aching body was at his mercy beneath his looming figure. He could do whatever he wished to me. I didn’t have the strength to stop him. A smirk cracked at the edge of his lips and I braced for what he would do, readying myself for him to take me without granting my request. Drawing in a waiting breath I braced for the violent sting of his fangs, but instead Vondorian chuckled.

"So difficult," he mocked bringing his wrist to his lips and biting it open. Rich blood scented the air and I was suddenly so very hungry. "Drink and heal yourself, then you can go after the boy."

He lowered his wrist to me and I turned away, I wanted to do this completely on my own. A drop of his blood dripped on the corner of my mouth and I fought the urge to lick it even as it followed the curved slit of my lips.

Just one taste, I could do that. A small taste to ease the craving. Fangs slid from my gums and dripped with anticipation for that rich thick power Master was offering me, my body trembling like an addict for one last taste.

It's just a reaction. It will pass, I lied to myself.

My body craved blood because it was weak and starved for power, but I craved it because it brought peace. In those moments of taking the rich crimson life of another my heart beat like no other moment in my long existence. I was free and confined by the single act of drinking from another, and drinking from Vondorian—it was the closet thing to heaven I could ever hope for. A dark sinful domain that could only be reached through the most cursed of acts. A place for those who sacrificed their immortal souls for just one more fix. His own special depraved heaven where I was his damned angel.

Even as my body rebelled against me and my lips parted I pulled my head farther away from him. It was foolish, with Vondorian's offering I could heal my wounds in a matter of hours instead of weeks but I had to prove I could do this unaided.

"While I enjoy your spirit and determination I have let you fight me enough for one day. This is my battle to win, not yours Serenity." He laughed.

I looked back to see his lips twisting in the most deviously enticing grin as he brought his wrist to his lips, before I could question him Vondorian's mouth was on mine. Trapping me in a heated kiss. His tongue fighting its way between my lips until I could refuse no more and they opened, my mouth filling with the sweet taste of blood as his tongue plunged forward to explore me. There was no stopping now, all it took was one taste and I submitted to him. Submitted to my addiction.

My fangs found his tongue and pierced through sending a rush of metallic vanilla down my throat, a moan fleeting from his lips at the pleasured pain. I drank from him with a fevered need, the strength returning to my body in such a rush I gripped his shoulders, my nails breaking flesh as I drew him down to me. Mine, my mind growled taking from him in long gulps not able to get enough.

Soon Serenity…So very soon, his dark voice whispered among my thirsty thoughts but I didn't welcome the invasion as I had in the past. It wasn't comforting or soothing to my needs. I found myself wandering to thoughts of Cret and wishing for the briefest of moments that I could hear his haunting voice instead of Vondorian's.

Every part of me ached as an unrelenting reminder from the battle I had walked away from. The shallow scratches on my arms and face stung each time the chilled morning wind swept across the valley and against my body, causing me to cringe with the refreshed sting. The tense response of my muscles to shield from the feeling sent a burn up my side. The hole there was worse and more painful than any of the other wounds I had suffered. A steady drip of blood still fell from the gash as I continued on my way, but none of these physical reminders of last night could touch on the agony I felt over those moments of instinctual reaction.

I knew the battle between Serenity and I was coming. It was unavoidable, though I had hoped to delay it and the choice I would be forced to make. There were two options laid before me, kill Serenity or let her go. Let her vanish away and ignore the fact she was still living. I could do neither.

My sense of duty refused to leave me in peace. When I was close to Serenity it urged me to kill her, but I couldn't let her go either. The thought of her existing in this world made me want to be close to her, and there was where the dilemma resided. Her living apart from me was too painful a thought, and her death was even worse.

The memory of Serenity's gaze fading away, all the spark draining in such quick secession of time, had found me back in that dulled state of survival, while the fear of my own demise by the clans nagged me to find her and finish it.

The conflict I had felt in the past, the troubles I had faced with my own need for belonging couldn't touch on the turmoil I now faced. My mind screamed at me to follow duty above all else, urged along by my desire for acceptance. A place that I would belong in this world, while every fiber of my being was drawn to Serenity. The deep primal instinct to protect her so deeply enrooted I couldn't understand where it had come from. It was so unnatural.

This ordeal was too much, I was reaching a limit that was beyond me and I found myself turning to the teachings Rhea had ingrained inside my warrior mind. If there was one lesson I took from her and held in the tightest grip it was her warning to keep myself in line. To turn my back on that darker nature of my father's, and do as I was told. It was what had kept me alive this long, that seemed like the most impossible task. That darker part of me wanted something that my duty wouldn't allow, and it was growing stronger with each ticking second.

Sparing Serenity couldn't make me that much of a monster? Saving a life couldn't be such an evil thing that I should be punished, besides the world was far more interesting with Serenity in it. She was a creature I needed, and maybe the world did too for balance. That argument meant nothing now. I snuffed Serenity out.

No, she was still breathing. I reminded myself as I limped up the last hill to reach a resting point, then it would be onto my destination.

Traveling up the western side of the valley where the hills were a little steeper, I was heading toward Rhea's secret study. A place dug deep into one of the large mounds that crafted the ridge of the valley, well hidden by the natural foliage, it was the perfect place to watch the city and keep secrets. It was just beyond the ruins that lay over the next incline that flattened into a plateau stretching for about a mile or more.

This place was long forgotten. No one traveled this far west of the city. The memories here were too painful, a well-preserved reminder of the cruelties of the world they lived in. Many thought it cursed from all the bloodshed these lush green fields had seen, prompting one of the previous kings of the Vrasum Province to reconstruct the main road. Weaving the path around the ruins to the south before it turned northwest toward the capital, it added a day's travel to the journey but no one seemed to mind avoiding what lay within these hills.

Just ahead was the place where Serenity was born, or rather crafted. The child she was reborn into—the thing that now plagued this plane was no longer the person that lived in the village just beyond these overgrown slopes. So much tragedy in such a beautiful place, it made the soul weep.

The fresh growth of spring bloomed all around, complementing the tall wisps of blue fox and lemon grass, a serene moment that couldn't penetrate my numbing guilt. I needed to find a way to move past this. I couldn't be stalled or hindered by these feelings, not when I knew Serenity would return to finish our battle. Guilt or not, it was going to happen.

Damn you Cret get a hold of yourself.

What was I doing? I was in the right to strike when I had the chance. I shouldn't feel like this. Serenity was a tidal force of pure darkness. A heartless creature that delighted in the destruction of life, watching her smirk as Tentusa was ravaged confirmed that. She was enjoying it in the way her vampire kin did. I had no choice but to kill her. She might still be alive, I reminded myself.

And if she is…Then what? I questioned back without mercy, there was no time to lick my internal wounds.

I could feel it coming, the doom about to wash over the valley and though the city had been destroyed, a part of me felt it wasn't over. Even with my instincts so distracted by conflict, I knew I could trust this feeling. It was in the air. Thickening as the morning crept by, tensions were building I just didn't know to what. What more could the vampires want? They had destroyed everything.

"I failed Rhea. I'm sorry." I spoke out into the early morning struggling up the last few inches of the incline, clenching my hand over the still bleeding wound in my side.

My natural swift regeneration was not working as it should, maybe that was my punishment for what I had done. Murdering, my demon brethren could forgive that, but selling my muddled soul for some small glimmer of acceptance from people that had exiled me and killed others that shared my traits. Now that was unforgivable. All the Opsona training, this pestering call to duty, what was the point?

They will kill you and her if you don't kill her first, my thoughts warned and I didn't care.

The thought of death seemed welcomed now. Living in the nightmare of a world without Serenity just wasn't worth it, but I had a duty to Rhea if not the Opsona. This conflict was maddening. If I thought any more on the subject I was sure I would slip into some kind of insanity.

My perspective was distorted and crushed under the dull feeling of a life without Serenity. I need rest, I told my worried mind coming to the small plateau at the top.

The flat area continued for a few miles and then rolled back up into another series of grass-covered mounds. Among the tall lengthy blades of un-maintained vegetation, remains of aged stone structures stood out. Nature slowly taking back what man had built; this was the place were it all started.

I stared out into the vast opening taking in the haunting beauty, it was a moment in history paused and held right in this spot. Though time had aged it, the feeling of tragedy still loomed, and sorrow rolled off the blades of grass that bent under the subtle breeze. This was where the Fisargo Clan of the Opsona lived and died, so many lost and the reason still not clear.

Stories say they were targeted because they held the Opsona's greatest kept secret, others spoke of revenge or assassins. The only truth that could be taken away from their fall was that none of us were untouchable. The Opsona could fall and that instilled a fear in all the rest of the clans making them more deadly and cautious.

A flash of gold caught my eye as I offered my respects to this place, just catching the morning sun before it disappeared. Then it flashed again as the wind bent the grass. It was the first time I had seen the sun able to peek through the storm clouds that still clung to the valley, the light dancing off long strands of gold that flew up from the overgrowth. I couldn't make out what it was, but I was sure it was coming closer.

I held the timid caution back in my mind as I trained my eyes on the dancing strands, it could just be a messenger sent by the clans. Though I doubted the Opsona would venture here, even to deliver an important message. Then I felt it, or more of saw it. That dark shadowed entity that announced Vondorian's presence and I readied myself drawing my amber dagger and backing into a defensive stance, a burn running up my side reminding me of my limitations.

There could be only one reason Vondorian would come for me like this…He couldn't save her.

I wanted to give up right in that moment as my mind jumped to the conclusion of Serenity's death. There was no point in fighting if I no longer had a reason to live, and I slid my dagger back into place, my stance easing back. Was this really what I had concluded? Would I really take death over losing Serenity again?

A calm type of clarity saturated the deepest part of me. I had come to a decision. The maddening conflict I had been battling with now seemed so trivial. I knew what I wanted. With the decision made for me I wanted to follow Serenity even in death.

I was ready to face my fate as a figure emerged from the overgrowth, silhouetted at first by the dark shadow surrounding them but the closer they came the more I could see. Relief was what I should have felt when I saw who was approaching but instead I was met with defeat.

"Lady Victoria?" The disbelief left my lips at a whisper when I took sight of what was once an innocent young girl.

The small frailly tender daughter of Lord Davros was clothed in harsh black attire, a dark and striking contrast to her unnaturally pale complexion. She looked as if the color had been pulled from her body, all vibrancy gone. Dressed very much like one of Vondorian's minions. Those signature blue eyes of hers that reflected the comfort of sun-warmed waters now held a harsh icy vacancy. This wasn't the Victoria I knew, there was not a single glimmer of what was once the grace of pure innocence.

"Dagger," she commanded in an empty voice, and what was left of my wounded heart broke for her. Whomever this was standing before me, it wasn't Victoria.

What has he done to you? I focused on the presence around her. The deep darkness of Vondorian's influence.

Normally Victoria's shadow was like every mortal's, bright and lively. Layers upon layers of color all mixed and mingled and slightly translucent in nature trapped within the black borders of their cast shadows. Depending on their current thoughts or emotions one color would present brighter than another, and there was always a more prominent hue, which spoke of the person's core nature. For Victoria it was the brightest of blue-green, a mix that flashed and pulsed like a heart beat inside her shadow.

Now all her colors had dulled and become muted. Overpowered by Vondorian's toxicity that rose all around her like some invading entity, the blue-greens were dirtied and weaving in and out of his blackness. Struggling to shimmer for the briefest of seconds before being pulled under, there must have been a portion of her that was still alive. Even though it was small.

She held out her hand this time and I inched back, on guard. "Dagger."

"No."

"Dagger," she repeated just as flat as before un-phased by my refusal. She was like some type of machine, a pet trained with only a single response.

Damn you, Vondorian.

I shook my head at her demand as she reached for the sword at her side. What was I willing to do? Victoria was a lady, a gentle naïve child. Battling her seemed heartless and cruel, and I couldn’t save her. There was no dispelling Vondorian, he was too integrated into her being. There was only one option left.

My heart felt like lead in my chest. Tentusa, Rhea, Serenity and now Victoria. Was I to lose everything I cared about in a matter of days? Or was this the curse I had to carry for living?

"I'm going to help you, Victoria." I said and the blue-green in her shadow flashed brighter for a moment fighting against the darkness, before warming over with a soothing greener tone—the color of relief.

I didn't know if she understood fully what I meant by my words. There was only one way to help her. Only one way I could free her from this lowly state of being, and I found myself asking Rhea for her forgiveness. I lost her city and now I was going to take the closest thing to a child she ever had.

Victoria drew back one of her legs and moved into a ready stance of attack. I dropped my head in heartache. The sound of feet racing across the grassy distance between us stilled my breath. This had to end. All of it had to come to an end.

Reaching deep within I called on my father's blood, the demon inside me and all the power of the Crepus Vali Rebros. The void between realms opened under my command, just a small crack that let the energy trapped there drift into my body. It flowed through my veins like blood and filled me with an energy that gathered in my right hand. I wouldn't use that cursed dagger for this, that seemed too cowardly and that damn thing had caused enough suffering.

I lowered my head and closed my eyes, no longer able to look at Victoria rushing toward me. She was fast. Faster than humans should be and still the time it took her to close the distance seemed to drag on for an eternity. I just waited there, the darkness of the void itching at my fingertips, gathering at my will and ready to leap into action.

A battle cry rang out as Victoria prepared to strike. I knew she wouldn't go for the kill. Vondorian needed me alive after all, and that was what put Victoria at a disadvantage. That solemn calm took over me again and I stepped back to avoid her attack, the rushed air of a failed strike brushed by my chest.

"I'm sorry," the words whispered low from my lips as I jumped forward into action.

The energy gathered in my hand bending to my will and formed a physical weapon. In one swift movement I rushed past Victoria not giving her a chance to counter or guard against my attack, the voided weapon which formed in my hands cut through her small body with no resistance. The breath of the world held for a second as I drew my weapon into view. It was a thing of pure dark beauty. A double halberd with long curved blades on either end that slightly resembled a scythe. Crafted out of metal that belonged to no world, twisted shimmers of blues, greens, and just a hint of red mixed in the black of the blades. The hilt connecting each end dark like shadows. A thing of deadly elegance. My black wings. Each time I used it I felt a freedom like no other. None of the world I struggled to make a claim in mattered and my demonic powers were at their peak. That was why I named my weapon something so freeing, and now it was stained with innocent mortal blood.

An odd cold chill blew through the wind and the sweet smells of spring vanished. Victoria's final few gasps broke my twisted delight of the moment and my weapon dissipated into shadows. Returning to the place I had drawn it from.

A thud came from behind me and I knew it was done but I couldn't look. Regretful shame stuck in my chest and pushed on my heart. I failed you Rhea…I betrayed you.

The doors of the temple whipped open in an intimidating display of power, my power. I entered the overcrowded temple without any of the sickness I had felt before, no gut wrenching protest from the divine. They couldn't touch me now. Stagnant air rushed from the open doors filled with the scent of rotting wounds and spoiled flesh, mixing with the sweet aroma of death and wet ash that filtered in from the ruins of the city. Two worlds were clashing in this holy place, one of feeble hope clinging onto what remained of life, and the other of ruination. The harsh reality that would soon befall these people, but first I had business to attend.

I stormed in like a clap of thunder. This temple was all that was left. The only building in the aftermath of the Vamdari's tantrum from last night. Ryder's men had burned everything else and herded the people into the temple much like animals, that was just what they were. Animals being rounded up for the slaughter. When the army landed this evening, we would feast, toast our success and bless the coming battles. It was a tradition. A ritual of sorts and these people were our sacrifices.

The mass of people that once overflowed into the halls stretching out from the community chamber now extended farther. There were hundreds packed within these walls, each one giving off the most delectable scent of terror as I marched through the tightly packed numbers. People started to shift and stand, watching me with horror stricken eyes, my unmasked appearance no doubt a startling revelation for them. There was no reason to hide myself any longer, their fates were sealed. I flaunted my darker features and blood colored eyes feeling the beauty and power I did last night. That pervious feeling of dark seduction, the elegance of some brutal creature beaming off me despite the lack of my creature. This feeling I would keep.

The holy protest of the gods protection didn’t stop me like before. It couldn't. Not with Vondorian's blood racing through my veins, I was more powerful than I had ever been before. The small tastes I was allowed from him were nothing compared to what I was feeling now. Strong wasn't the right word. I felt godly. He had never offered me so much, but I would take it again just to feel this untouchable.

In our hungry kissing and physical exploration of each other's impassioned bodies, he offered me more than I could ever imagine, and I gorged myself on him. My dark lord. I was left free to do as I willed. Vondorian finally trusted me as he did in the past, his dark voice inside my head was gone, in fact all of them were gone.

Walking into this place should have flooded me with mental chatter, the mortal emotions that clung to the atmosphere should have been taking over, but again none of it could touch me. The feeling, so liberating, sharp tingling awareness pricked at my skin making me feel more alive than I had ever been as I rode the high of Vondorian's power. He was all I needed. I knew that now.

It was the idea of Vondorian waiting for me and the prospect of finishing what we had started that lifted my stomach in excitement. Time and events couldn't pass fast enough for me to return to him. My lips were still warm and swollen from his kisses, my body covered in his vanilla scent. By morning I would be in his bed, becoming his and he becoming mine. Then at night fall we would march together with the army toward the capital. Vondorian was right—the world was going to change.

First I had the matter of the high priest to deal with, the bastard who had so willfully tested my patience before. Then there was the matter of the villagers, the ones Cret forced me into sparing. They didn't fear me like they should have, and now I would make sure they cowered before me. Which was what they did seeing the ease I displayed in navigating the room, the rawest depraved version of me on show for them. The other priests didn’t even step forward to stop me. What could they do? Even the holy beauty of this place was falling at my feet.

The once polished marble was drained of color and vibrancy. This place no longer held the awe I felt as a child. It was just another holy place I was to decimate, just another in a long line of temples and churches I would burn and reduce to ash. The last moments of this holy temple had already begun, it was clear in the dulled beauty of this place. The vivid murals of the gods and goddesses were now pale with chipped paint. The altars were dimly lit and the items placed before the statue of the goddess were tattered and worn. How easy purity was to sway and destroy, it made me chuckle…pathetic.

Stopping in front of the altar where the giant statue of the Peace Goddess sat, I looked up at her. Judgment creased her stone face and I felt a challenge, one I would gladly take on and win. I would show her people they were not safe, not even in this holy place. Nothing could stop me until my hands were wet with Cret's blood, and even then I wouldn't stop. I would see this mortal world overrun with nightmares from the exiled realms. Show those gods how easily everything could fall into complete chaos. I had to show them.

Soon this valley would be a crater where no living thing would dare enter. The darkness would pour through the cracks of the devastation. I would reign upon these grounds, that moment was fated. She couldn't stop it any more than I could.

"I told you," the enraged voice of the high priest yelled at me. "You are not welcom—"

My hand grasped his throat as he came closer cutting off his words. Hearing his voice and demands was an annoyance. Welcomed or not I went where I pleased.

Lifting the fat man off the ground with such ease caused a gasp to rush over the crowd. People jumped to their feet, the other priests inched forward to aid and then paused with uncertainty. Their actions left me with an edgy need to slaughter them all and this annoying priest, but he would live—for a few more moments. I had plans for him…Painful plans.

He struggled in my grasp, clawing at my hand that clasped around his throat as I walked him back to a door. It was then that other priests finally forced themselves into action and rushed in our direction. I put my other hand up to stop them. "Follow us and I will kill him without hesitation."

My tone was steady, cold, and calm. It was perfect, my old self returning so fast. I was back to the vampire I was before Cret cut me down in battle. No more inner conflict, no more struggle against morals and emotions I never wished to have. I pushed the high priest through the door and toward a spiral staircase leading down, suspending him over the edge of the steps. Intoxicating fear reflected in his eyes sharpening my high. I held him there for a long moment dangling over the descending darkness of the spiral steps. Once I could draw no more enjoyment from the moment I released him, letting his pudgy figure tumble down into the pitch black nothing as I followed behind at my leisure. An array of groans and painful grunts echoed up from the darkness, followed by a harsh release of air as he hit the bottom. I could do whatever I wanted to this man down here, no one would hear his screams.

I reached the bottom just as the priest was struggling to his feet.

"How dare y—" My hand was at his throat before he could say more. His voice was so damn annoying.

"Don't speak, it only makes me want to kill you faster and I want to enjoy this." I instructed releasing his throat so he could get his breath, he would need it for the screaming.

Watching as the priest heaved in and out for every small amount of air that passed through his strangled sore throat was pleasing. The scent of death so heavy in the air pushed me to a place of reckless depravity, I wanted to see this man's blood here among the stale dimness. It would be so black and fluid, running along damp slick stones that hadn't seen the light of day in centuries. Spices and powerful perfumes assaulted me as I inhaled deeper, mixed with decaying corpses. The catacombs.

I had no idea what this place was when I first forced the priest down the steps, but now it was all too fitting I should choose this place. Here among the most honored dead, the most sacred place in the entire valley, I would desecrate it with the blood of a holy man. Lay my claim to it and watch every pure and sacred aspect wash away under my intimidation. Yes, this was perfect.

A warm glowing light to the left flickered against my vision, drawing my attention from the doomed priest. I glanced in the direction and then back to my victim, ignoring it until something drew me back for a second glance. This time my eyes lingered on the curious room for longer than a passing second. The soft timid glow of candlelight breaking through the darkness intrigued me. So small a light defeating such a looming force, how?

I took a step forward toward the room when the priest grabbed at my arm. "Stay away from her!" he demanded.

Throwing him to the ground, I ignored the protest and continued toward the odd light. Just outside where my vision was still obstructed by the wall, a familiar scent hit me. Every limb of my body froze and I stopped breathing.

That rose aroma had haunted me for days, the phantom memory of a life I took. A tremble started in my hands, and I clenched them into fists before pushing on. This was ridiculous—she was just another victim. Another life I took without reason or care. That was how I lived…That was how I wanted to live.

Certain I could handle whatever my imagination told me was just around the threshold, I walked in strong willed but unprepared. The mortal feelings of guilt flooded over me and my newfound cruelty and power-fueled brutality vanished.

Rhea lay there on a stone bed surrounded by melted candles that were dwindling away to dripping ribbons of wax. Soft light flickered off the outline of her body basking her in an otherworldly glow, capturing me in awe. She was dead, her body as cold as the stone she lay on, but there seemed to be a judging life-force in her. Those pale green eyes flashed in my mind and the emotions took over.

The guilt, shame, conflict—they weren't gone. They didn't fade and leave me to my former self. I still felt every bit of the emotions even through Vondorian's power that beat in my chest.

Rhea's last plea replayed it my mind like it had before. There was no stopping it now as I stared at her corpse.

'You have a choice.'

I had killed thousands of people throughout my life. I had heard people beg before, saying wild and random things in their last moments. Why did she and her words matter so much?

"Leave he—" The priest growled grabbing my arm again, the weak contact of his hand against my skin was enough to snap me from my guilt-riddled haze.

Slamming the man into the wall, I pressed my arm across his throat, my unmasked scarlet gaze focused on him. "I'm going to give you an option," I said forming a series of events inside my head. "Save yourself and this pathetic mortal world, or die with the people in the temple above us. The choice is yours, but know that there are others I can go to. I don't have to spare your life."

An array of emotions washed over his face until I finished speaking and he belted out his answer without thought. "Y-y-yes…Yes, I'll do whatever you say."

My inner cruelty fluttered with approval at how quickly he swayed. Humans were no different from savage animals. It was all about the individual. Evil resided in their hearts just as it did mine. The difference was I enjoyed it.

Sinking down into the weathered wooden chair, I stared down at my hands coated in rich black dirt and dried blood. The fresh scent of earth still clung to them breaking through the musty air of Rhea's secret study. I cut Victoria down. Helped her in the only way I could and then buried the body near the ruins. It seemed the best I could do at the moment. She should have been buried with her father under the temple but that was an impossible task given Tentusa's current state. Later when all this was over I would return and give her the burial she deserved, but for now she was at peace in the ruins where so many other souls slept.

I wondered how the world had changed on me. Everything I knew and was taught shifted beneath my feet, leaving me suspended over a chasm of a new, terrifying world. Not even here, among Rhea's most cherished belongings did I feel comforted. Tucked away in her secret room where it still felt like she was living somewhere out there. This was home to her for generations and now it was just a painful reminder as I looked at all her most important works stacked on shelves carved out of dirt walls. This was the place I learned everything I knew, a teacher and student studying in these modest chambers. Coming here always made me feel at home, but not this time. Despite the warmth seeping from the earthy walls, I was cold. Chilled by the harsh realities just outside.

A steady slow drip of blood from my side the only sound in the room as it formed a shallow puddle beneath me. The gentle taunting howl of wind swept by outside of the small slit of a window along the back wall. From here you could see down into the valley and onto the city. I didn't want to look. There was nothing left down there to gaze at, just wreckage.

I needed to get up and clean my wound, the other smaller cuts on my body had already healed, but this hole in my side was stubborn. It needed to be dressed and then I needed a meal to regain some of my strength, but I wanted to do none of it.

Leaning back in the chair I let my body stretch out and my gaze travel toward the ceiling, a rush of defeated air left my lips. I couldn't think on any of it anymore, my physical and emotional limits had been spent and now there was nothing. Not a single thing that could ground me. I found myself back at the place I was in my younger years—a wanderer with no direction and a shame that followed everywhere.

The musty smell of old worn books and scrolls surrounding me with their knowledge, years of dictations scribbled down. Words of wisdom littering the aged wooden table in front of me, and all I could do was drift off into blank thought. Let the confusion of mind and emotions take me over, and hope that I emerged with some form of direction.

"You should care for yourself better," Serenity's voice startled me to my feet. "And clean that wound before you get an infection."

I stood there in shock looking at her, the woman who had rejected me and still she took up every second of the thoughts racing in my mind. The demon within awoke with a warning hiss as I took in her appearance, not a single scratch on her. It was like last night had never happened. Serenity's body was in perfect condition. Arms folded across her chest and leaning against the far wall, she looked completely at ease and that pissed me off.

"How did you find me?" It was the first question that came to mind, was I really being that careless that I was so easily followed?

"I knew you would be coming here."

"How?"

"No one else knows about this place, and your scent was well covered. So does it really matter how I knew?"

It mattered because no one got the drop on me. It was one of the few traits the Opsona actually praised me for, or at least acknowledged. The thing that shocked me more was that she was the one that snuck up on me, I was far too attune to Serenity for her to be capable of that, or at least I thought.

The fact she bested me at something, even if only for a moment in time brought my demon out of his wallowing hole and sent his need to challenge to the forefront of my mind. Her demeanor did little to aid the situation. My demon and I were both still wounded by her rejection last night, and seeing Serenity there in such a causal manner added to the sting of our wounded ego.

"You look surprisingly well." I noted to her perfect condition drawing the conversation in a new direction to distract myself.

"One of the many advantages of being a vampire."

"Ahh yes. Drink a little blood and everything in your world turns out fine." I growled at her more then I meant to, jealousy hiding in my words.

We were both different, unique in our creation, but I was more limited than her. Blood was a cure all for just about any affliction that could harm a vampire. Time was my only cure. I could stave off infections that would kill a normal mortal, survive wounds that not even Opsona's could, but still I was restricted by an element I could not control. Time. Serenity had no such restrictions.

Her cold stoic look faltered a little at my comment as she took a step toward the table. I flinched back in response completely on guard, waiting for her to attack while I was still weak.

"Settle yourself before you make your injuries worse," she warned, reaching for one of the chairs at the table and pulling it out before sitting. "I don't delight in drinking blood, it's the cowards way out. I would have rather healed on my own strength."

Her words left me a little confused. I knew she devoured blood with the same need and lust that others of her kind did. It was a drug vampires needed and craved every second their immortal hearts beat.

Over the years and many evolutions of the vampire race they had learned to control their cravings. The blood-lust not nearly as ravenous as it was talked about in ancient times, but it was still an insatiable need they had frail control over. Along with their vanity it was the only exploitable fault of the race. Despite her natural instinct to crave blood Serenity seemed disgusted by it, ashamed. That was interesting.

"Besides you have no call to judge me. You're no more mortal than I am." Her tone grew dark and victorious as she leaned back in the chair.

Serenity's gaze locked with mine, a caution in her eyes but not rage or hunger like last night. None of that creature I witnessed before was there. This was all Serenity. The sage of her scent was strong today to the point I could smell no lavender only an odd sweetness she never gave off before now. Even her scarlet eyes lacked the cruel beauty that was common for her. She was altered somehow.

Serenity closed her eyes and inhaled for a long moment then exhaled licking her tongue along those lush lips of hers. The rejection from last night rushed away in a sudden wave of arousal.

Damn her.

"Yes, there is something that mingles with your blood, and I'm not talking about that rich Opsona heritage of yours. It's something much darker." A twisted smirk appeared on her face and I took a step back, turning my head away.

I focused my attention elsewhere not wanting the conversation to continue. Talking about my father or what darkness he gave me was not something I wanted to discuss, especially not with her. I knew what the other creatures in the Underworld thought of my father's family, how they treated them. Not that I cared for the emotional suffering of the man, but it would only make a joke out of me. The Rebrosnus Faction of the Crepus Vali, we were nothing but a smear on the heel of every Underworld being. Legend painted my father's family as misfits among the nightmares of the other realms. I wouldn't give her the satisfaction of knowing that.

"Why are you here? Come to finish me?"

"No, sadly enough." She sounded far too disappointed about not killing me than I would have liked. "Master Vondorian wants you alive."

"So you've come to collect me then."

"No."

"Stop playing games. I tire of them," I growled which triggered a laugh, she was toying with me.

"I thought you liked playing games Cret," she mocked. "Suddenly not so playful once someone else has the upper hand."

I looked back to her with aggravation creasing my brow. I had always had the advantage over her, that was what my patience and stalking rewarded me with but now the tables were turned. The smug smile on her face burned through me as she tapped a finger to her head. A flaunting show reminding me I could no longer read her thoughts and I wished like hell I could. Maybe then I wouldn't be so on edge if I knew her intentions.

"Been studying I see," I mused, trying to regain the ground I lost, fighting to keep my calm exterior. It wasn't easy. My demon had a need to dominate, becoming more persistent the longer I gazed at that smug expression plastered across her face.

"I'm a fast study, and your blood taught me so much."

That last part startled me. I knew last night before we battled there was something different about her. A new clarity had taken root in her eyes, a revelation that hadn't been present before. Serenity had gained something down in those tunnels and from what she was telling me it was my blood that unlocked these new abilities. That couldn't be possible.

Memories, thoughts, information passed through blood was so rare, an impossibility outside of a few races and vampires were not among them. It was normal for vampires to pick up traits from their sires only because their bonds were so intense. There had even been rare reports of the strong emotions from victims felt by their vampire attackers. The idea that Serenity was able to learn a whole ability just by drinking my blood was disturbing and brilliant. Was this what made her so special? Or was the vampire race just evolving yet again?

"That's not all I learned Cret," she said with a wide smile that filled me with dread. "The second your blood touched my lips it all became so clear. Memories, your memories, filled in the gaps. I suddenly had a full picture of the night you murdered me."

Her last words were dark, the urge to lash at me heating her gaze. I felt relief in that. Serenity still wanted me dead and I didn't blame her, but if that was all she learned from my memories, I was thankful. My secrets were safe and intact. Serenity's need to see my blood stain the floor, I could handle. Her knowing me, really knowing me. No, I wouldn't risk it.

"Is that why you are here?" I asked sitting down in the chair I had sprung from when she first appeared. "You want to kill me, take revenge? It won't change anything."

She gave a light laugh and glanced away. "You're pathetic right now. I only want to fight you at your best, anything less would be a waste of my time."

I wasn't sure about her motives though her argument did put me at ease. I knew every word of what she said to be true, that was the Serenity I knew better than myself at times. Honorable to a fault, so long as that creature of hers remained at bay.

If she wasn't here to kill me or bring me to her waiting master, then why had she come?

Watching with a cautious eye I tried to draw any information I could from her as she stood. Tracking each step as she made her way to the little bucket near the window used to catch rainwater.

What do you have planned Serenity…What is it you want?

I asked over and over trying to get a fix or at the least an idea of what her intentions were. She had become so hard to read. Every point of her behavior was erratic leaving me staggering for answers.

Turning to a table on her right Serenity shifted so her body blocked my view. I grew a little nervous hearing the sounds of items moving and shifting. I wanted to jump up and race over to her, but before I could she turned back my way, hands full with a small bowl and a rag along with some bandages.

Strolling with that causal air back toward the table, she laid the items down and drew a chair closer to me. I tensed a little not sure just what she was planning on doing with all these items, but it couldn’t be what it looked like.

"Off with your shirt," Serenity demanded. I found myself reading a lot more arousing details into her command than I was sure she intended.

"Excuse me?"

"Take off your shirt so I can clean your wound. It's clear you have no intention of doing it."

Cret expressed a timid hesitation to my request that wasn't warranted, dressing another's wounds after battle was normal. Then again we were on opposing sides despite the assurance I wasn't here to kill him—at least not at this moment. Waiting with a great deal of impatience I hardened the look in my eyes to make my intent clear. I needed him ready for battle, not wounded and pathetic like he was.

Growing tired of the game I reached for my sword at my side and tossed it on the floor behind him, followed by the dagger in the small of my back. It was my way of showing I was no threat even though we both knew I was just as deadly without weapons. The caution eased from his face and Cret finally started to reach for the edge of his tattered shirt, a crack of a cocky smirk flashed at the corner of his lips, and a hint of naughty suggestion shimmered in his intense eyes.

He wasn't being cautious of me, his shyness was for another reason and I tried to appear annoyed by that, but I felt my body react to his little show. Deviously seductive thoughts no doubt flashing through that mind of his, I wanted to know just what he was thinking but that would only open me up to him. I couldn't give him that edge, so I fought the urge to invade his mind and harden the unamused expression on my face.

I wasn’t here to play his games or to be seduced by his witty, casually intriguing, and enticing personality. I had plans for him. Ones that were far more satisfying than just simply taking his life in a fit of swift revenge.

Typically, it was Vondorian who came up with elaborate schemes, planning every detail in the mission we had been given. His every moment spent on the painstaking task of seeing to his end goals. To me it had always seemed pointless. A waste of precious time when we had the force of the Vamdari behind us, there was nothing our numbers could not overcome, but now as I formed my own cunning web of lies and deceit I understood the allure.

Creatively twisted plots and deeds crafted to perfection in the form of both revenge and closure that would end in a crescendo of corpses, the thought of which had me smirking with anticipation for that final moment. The conclusion to all of this was only a fraction of the thrill edging my body to a new undiscovered high. Enjoyment derived even from these simple moments like back in the temple with that priest, the way he bent so easily to my will and knowing that I was far superior in that one instant to predict the needs and desires of another. It left me filled with a new sense of pride as I watched my puppets dance to my whim.

Cret would certainly take more persuading than that fat old priest, it was that challenge that had me completely seduced in the moment. The idea of luring Cret into this sense of security and exploiting his clear attraction to me was just the build I needed. If he could use me then I would return the favor before crushing his spirit.

I watched as Cret struggled out of his shirt, his head disappearing into the fabric as he pulled it from his body that flinched in pain with each tug to free himself. I should have helped but it pleased me far too much to watch him suffer. My own scar from last night still tingled to remind me of just how dangerous an enemy he was, a fact which aroused my sexually unkempt needs.

Freeing himself from the item he released a groan relaxing back into the chair and I took in the full sight of his body for the first time. The mystery of what those oversized clothes had been hiding now partly revealed, making me interested in what the rest of him looked like.

Fever-inducing honey flesh wrapped around lean defined muscles, a number of scars littered his battle worn body. I found myself thrilled by the overwhelming number of them. Each mangled portion of flesh a flawed mark on rough skin, and thoughts of each scar and the close to death experiences they told filled my mind. I wanted to know the story behind every one. Everything, right down to the small narrow slashed scar wrapping around from his left side. It looked brutal and angry, much darker in color than the rest. Yes, this wound has a very interesting story attached to it.

An itch to trace each one with my fingers tickled in the back of my thoughts as I continued to study him. He was nothing like Vondorian. There was no dark elegance to Cret, or pure raw power that rippled under his flesh. Nothing soft or smooth about his skin and yet I found him to be perfect. Perfectly flawed to the point I was having trouble controlling my fantasies.

Drawn to the red tattoos like scratching lines on the left of his face I could finally trace them down along his neck as they wrapped around his shoulder and disappeared onto his back. I wanted to know the mysterious meaning behind them, what exactly they were and if it had to do with that dark taste in his blood. My eyes jumped to his right on his peck where the Opsona symbol was carved into his flesh, not inked like all the other Opsona but cut deep. The scar looked old and weathered, but the discoloration of another scar that slashed through the symbol looked newer. What exactly was he to the clans? He lacked all the other classic defining marks of the Opsona and yet he was an Opsona. I tasted that, I was sure of it. Opsona blood was far too unique in flavor to mistake it for anything else.

The interest of his history faded as my eyes wandered over every detailed curve of his body. Studying each contour of his chest working down to his abs before settling on the V created by his lower muscles. I felt my breath grow heavy and my mouth run dry as I reached the waist of his pants. Too bad I didn't wound his leg.

He's a murderer, I tried to remind myself but it didn't help.

I still wanted to reach out and trace his marred flesh, to feel his reaction to my touch and run my fingers along every line my eyes had just made across his body.

"You keep looking at me like that and I won't be responsible for my actions," Cret purred and I glanced up to catch the look of lust in his eyes. The emerald green somehow more tempting and fierce than it had been before. I could feel my cheeks warm in embarrassment, a feeling I was not familiar with. I looked away in shame.

"I was looking at the wound," I countered in a feeble attempt to redirect both our attentions.

Turning to the bowl of water I had set on the table, I dipped a cloth in and rang the extra water before looking back at Cret, avoiding eye contact I focused on the wound and forced myself to not look anywhere else. His flesh was ripped and torn so violently I almost felt guilty for what I had done to him, but that lingering thought of his betrayal still burned in my chest. I could live with the pain I had caused him because it could never match the hell he put me through.

There was still blood coming from the torn skin, but the hole wasn't as deep as I had remembered it being, even with my distorted memories of last night, I was sure I had pierced clean through his body. Cret was a wonder to have survived, what was that other half of him that it could stave off death like that?

My mind wandered away from my plans and became lost in my curiosity. I wanted to know this man. He was so new and interesting. An enticing mystery that I needed to solve. I glanced up at Cret through my lashes and caught a cocky grin on his face. He was playing with me again. Pushing the cold wet cloth to the wound I made sure my point was made with a rough gesture, he flinched and groaned as I caused him pain, making me smile in the small victory.

I trained my attention on clearing the blood away more gently than my first pass. It was so hard to resist the urge to touch him. My fingers causally sliding against his flesh as I wiped his skin clean. Each subtle brush of contact made him shiver and caused my body to warm at his reaction. The room was suddenly so very thick with sexual tension. A temptation hung in the air that prickled against my carnal need for satisfaction and I could hear Cret's breathing becoming just a little more labored as I continued.

Each beat of my heart increased in the slow seconds that passed by. It was all I could do to not touch him properly like I so wanted. The thought of Vondorian waiting for me in his bed was gone now. It was just me and Cret in this small room hidden away from the world.

As I cleaned the last of the blood from the wound I peeked up at him to find his gaze on me. Those intense emerald eyes heated peeking through the spiked ghost white tips of his hair, his look so expressive I felt my cheeks flush and my breath catch in my throat.

"I don't understand you," he said finally breaking the lustily heated silence between us. "You are so harsh and violent, and yet your touch is so delicate."

Cret's hand gently took my wrist as his other pulled away the cloth I was holding, directing my hand to his chest. His skin flinched a little under my touch but his warmth was inviting. I melted into the feeling and calm overtook me. My devious intentions for this meeting lost in a single moment, and I no longer felt the need to avenge my wounded vampiric pride.

No, I can't.

Pulling my hand from him I stood up and turned away. I needed distance. "You can bandage yourself." I added making my way toward the window. I needed the fresh air from the valley to clear the fog from my head.

A sigh came from Cret. I knew he was left just as disappointed as I was. "Would it mean anything if I apologized for last night, and the other time?"

"I wouldn't believe you if you did," I replied. "We are enemies Cret. I hold no illusions we could be anything more and you shouldn't either."

The lies poured from my lips as I tried to make my voice sound cold and cruel. It would mean everything if he apologized and I couldn’t hear that, those words would be like an approval to further explore this attraction. I couldn't do that, not now that I had so definitively chosen my path.

A sliver of heartache settled on my chest when I remembered last night, that freedom and strength Cret had given me. The untouchable feeling—though as dark as it was, there was no fear of what my actions could cause me, who was watching me and judging my intentions at every turn. Vondorian's collar was no longer around my neck, I could do what I willed, and even though Master was leaving me unsupervised for the moment I knew I wasn't truly free.

"Very well," the disappointment in his voice stung but I needed to make it clear, there would be no relationship between us. "So what do you want?"

"I want to know why Vondorian needs you alive."

It wasn't the real reason I came here, but I was the curious type and it was a good mask for my true intentions. I needed to give Cret a reason to trust me, something that would draw him into my plot.

"If it's keeping me alive I see no reason to tell you." He toyed with me. I knew he was by the way he let the words glide out of his mouth with that arrogance of his.

"Vondorian is keeping you alive," I growled to warn him but it was only half hearted. I still couldn't get the image of his bare chest out of my thoughts. "How long my will to follow his orders lasts remains to be seen."

The sound of the chair's legs scraping against the stone floor caught my attention but before I could turn to see what Cret was doing I felt his warmth behind me. I swallowed past the knot in my throat from the close contact and remained with my back to him, that soft teasing breath of his at my ear when he whispered, "I couldn't help but notice you didn't call him lord or master." A tone of satisfaction in his voice.

I hadn't noticed my lack of disrespect when speaking of Master. I rarely used his name and even then it was always accompanied by his title. How could I be so disrespectful, was it because I knew he was no longer watching me? That I was free of his hold only briefly since I had weakened him after drinking so much of his blood?

"You're reading too much into nothing," I played it off as causally as I could but my body was on edge. My nipples hardened under Cret's warmth behind me, and the little distance between us. His delightful breath brushed against my neck.

Cret's hands came to rest on my waist and I shivered as he continued to question my motives. "I don't believe you. You wouldn't be here if you weren't questioning your master's orders." He teased me, the distance between our bodies gone as he moved closer pulling me against him.

I didn't like him questioning my loyalty, maybe because what he said was so very true. It was more than I was prepared to face as his hands snaked forward around my body, a warming heat rushing to my core. Even after everything that happened between us, I wanted Cret, or maybe that was just because I left Vondorian like I did. Left his bed before I could fully satisfy myself.

These are just lingering sexual frustrations, not any kind of attraction, I lied to myself.

Forcing false annoyance to take over my desires I grabbed his wrists from my body and twisted to cause pain, "I told you to keep your han—"

My words stumbled from my mouth as he jerked me around to face him, my hold on his wrist altered as he captured mine. Restraining both my wrists with one hand between us he pulled them down and forward to drive my body toward him. By the god's he was deceptively strong, that was so attractive.

"Enough games," he growled low in his throat. "Why have you really come to me?"

"I want Vondorian dead." The words rushed out of my mouth before I could really think them through.

It was a quick reaction to get Cret on my side, if we shared a common goal. Something that I could rally him behind then everything could move forward just as I planned.

Cret laughed in reply before leaning closer to me, "I don't believe you."

"It's true whether you believe it or not." I tried to sound sure of myself. "I know he is trying to make a move on Overlord Mathus, and Lord Mathus takes priority over Lord Vondorian."

It wasn't a complete lie. In the vampire ranks we all knew Overlord Mathus' life was to be protected above all others, but a Vamdari's objective was skewed. Our loyalties ran deep to Vondorian, and while under his command we would lay down our life for Mathus. If the vampire realm ever became divided every Vamdari would stand at my master's side. There was no questioning that. I just hoped Cret didn't know any better.

He didn't release me but I saw the harden skepticism in his eyes ease. "He wants my dagger."

"That damn thing," I growled as the scar on my chest burned in reminder. "What could he possibly want it for?"

"Because it can kill anything, and if he truly is making a move to take over the Vampire Nation the dagger will ensure it."

I let an unconvinced laugh leave my lips. "Your silly toy couldn't even kill me. The thing is unless."

"And yet you have fallen by it twice."

Brooding silence fell between us over the truth we both spoke. That dagger had failed to kill me twice now, but Cret was just as surprised by it as I was. Twice now I had stared down death and each time it had only made me stronger. There had to be a damned angel at my side. Something that was protecting me, but that was just a suspicion and I had more important things to think on. Such as why Cret's life was so important to attainting this weapon.

"Why does he need you alive?"

"The dagger's cursed. It must be handed over willingly or—"

"Or its magical properties won't work." I finished for him, but Cret shook his head at my interruption.

"No the dagger will still kill, but at a price." Cret paused for a moment, hesitating to tell me more before he continued. "If the dagger is not passed on willingly it will take the life of both the victim and wielder. Vondorian requires me to live so I can hand him the dagger without him risking his life to use it."

It seemed reasonable but something about the situation didn't seem right. Master's need to have that dagger passed down by Cret's hand wasn't like him. Yes, a curse had been placed on it, but the Vondorian I knew would not allow that to stop him if his goal was to overturn Lord Mathus. I could see Master getting another to take the dagger forcefully from Cret, and then assassinate Mathus without telling them of the dagger's consequences, that would be far easier then torturing Cret in order to force his hand. Why was Master going through the trouble?

It didn't matter. None of this story was real, Lord Vondorian had shown no signs of betraying the overlord. This was all just a tale of fiction to get Cret to do what I wanted, but then why did Master need the dagger?

"And you have no intention of doing that," I stated more than asked and the determination that creased his brow told me I was right.

I knew men like Cret, warriors, not just Opsona warriors, did not give in to their captors. We could put him through hell and still he would take that dagger to his grave. There had to be more to this than just this silly weapon, the nagging discomfort in the back of my mind was sure of it.

That is none of your concern, I reminded myself.

I came here to bring Cret willingly into my plot. It would be far easier to do that than battle him, even wounded he held an advantage over me and I knew that. No, it would be safer for all if I lured him in with false promises, besides what I had planned for him would bring me more satisfaction than if I struck him down right here.

I wanted to feel delight in my twisted plot but now with Cret so close and my body so heated I wasn't proud at all. Sickness churned in my gut and I almost wished I could take it all back now, but things had been placed into motion it was time to move forward.

"I need your help Cret." I played the desperate maiden as best I could. Remembering just how troubled he was seeing Vondorian's brand on me.

"How do I know this isn't some type of elaborate trap?"

He was good, but I was better. "You are the last person I wanted to come to. You know how to wield the dagger. I can get you close to Vondorian if you promise me you can kill him."

The tone of my voice was filled with confidence and seriousness to the point I believed my goal was to actually kill my master. Conviction poured from me as I stared Cret down trying to force the look into my eyes. I needed his willing trust especially since he still had me trapped in his iron grip.

"And let you kill me the second I have done what you asked." Cret growled, "I'm not that gullible Serenity."

"I call a truce. I'll lead you to him, you kill Vondorian, and we go our own ways. After I have reported back to Overlord Mathus I will come to finish this matter between us. Of that I promise."

He seemed to be in deep thought considering my offer. It was all I had to give him. If he didn't fall for this then I would have to drag him back to the manor, I would prefer not to do that. It would make this evening far more difficult than it needed to be. After a long moment of studying my face he pulled me forward by my captured wrists, my face only inches from his as his heated gaze pinned me.

"Is that all you have to offer?" his words were so suggestive I found it hard to breathe with that stare fixed on me.

I swallowed past the heat rising in my body and tried to control my altered breath as my heart started to beat in rapid succession. It was getting harder to remember myself and the set decision I had made this morning. It was even harder for me to remember this man was dangerous without feeling aroused by that fact.

Cret brought his free hand to the side of my face and caressed my cheek, running this thumb over my lips. I couldn't help tracing my tongue along the path he just made. He exhaled at my actions and I knew just what I had to offer Cret to get what I wanted.

"You want more?" I toyed with him pouting my lips a little to entice him. Men were so easily persuaded when it came to sex.

"I think you need to sweeten this deal if you want me to risk so much."

I let a slight whispered moan pass my lips as he glided his fingers over them again. His eyes danced with lust and need and I knew I had him, just a little nudge and the deal would be done.

"You can have me," I whispered in a subtle moan. Shifting my body against his to grab Cret's attention.

Satisfaction flashed in his eyes before he jerked my wrists again to draw me forward more, his free hand coming to grab my face as he locked gazes with me. "Don't tease me, Serenity."

"It's a serious offer. You can have me until sundown." I repeated my offer leaning into him. "You can do with me whatever you wish, Cret. I'm all yours."

He groaned at my advances and before I could urge anymore his lips slammed into mine. Hungry violence devoured my mouth as he released my wrists and grabbed my waist, my body flushing with a deep arousal like I had never felt before. I was more impatient for this than Vondorian to take me and I found myself tugging Cret closer. Driving my hands into his hair I kissed back nipping at his lips with my fangs that I couldn't keep to myself, my left leg moving on its own hooking around his waist. The feeling of his erection against my body had me dripping with anticipation. I could spare a little fun.

A roar exploded from Cret before he ripped from our heated kiss, drawing my hands from his hair, pinning them on either side of my head against the wall. His breath ragged and heavy as he hung his head in front of me. His surprising reaction left me feeling heated and disappointed. His grip tightened for a moment on my wrists before he spoke.

"Damn you, Serenity," he panted and I was confused. "You would give yourself to me just to be a loyal little subject. How can you forgive them for slaughtering your family, and making you like this but you can't look past me trying to stop you from becoming just another blood hungry vampire? I really wish you would."

His words seemed so pained and I felt that same tug of disappointment from my actions. I didn't know what to say in reply because I had never thought over my past. I hadn't thought about my family in so long and at first as the child I used to be I was angry. My soul had burned for revenge but somewhere along the way, I had lost that part of me. Those desires to avenge my family, my people. They were the desires of a child I had long since said my farewells to, or at least I thought I had.

"Not like this," he said. "I don't want you like this. You're doing this to get what you want out of me. I won't trade favors for sex. Not with you."

I felt my heart still. I didn't know what to do or how to respond. This was my world. Doing whatever it took, and the men and some women I had offered myself too had always taken it. I didn't understand his declaration. I almost felt insulted by his refusal. I went to protest and degrade him but then he looked up. An expression in his eyes I could not place, a strange look with a crack of a smile on the corner of his lips and I was wordless yet again.

"You get me close and I'll kill Vondorian for you, but I won't take advantage of what we have between us. It will happen naturally I'm sure of that."

He released my wrists and turned from me running his fingers through his hair, I could do nothing more than stare at him in amazement. Cret was passing on something he clearly wanted and would never have again despite his confidence over the matter. Such a fool.

She was gone, Serenity fled so quickly after my foolish refusal to consummate our arrangement, only remaining long enough to give me details for this evening. I was to meet her just before midnight in the temple. It was the only structure left in the city besides the manor on the eastern side. A simple dulled beacon of what once stood there. That temple had existed for centuries and even now it would continue to survive while everything else fell around it, of that I was sure.

From there she would smuggle me into the manor. I was told there would be only human brainwashed puppets guarding Vondorian. The rest would be waiting farther east along the lake for the ships of Vamdari to arrive. Serenity assured me the army would not arrive until just before dawn, and they were to march tomorrow evening at sundown. That gave us time. Once I killed Vondorian their leadership would fall to Serenity, who swore to report directly back to the nation. They would take no more cities for now.

She gave me hope that I might still be able to save a portion of the valley and myself. The city might have been ruined but the people could still be saved, I was grateful to Serenity for allowing me this. I had a chance to redeem myself even though I had let her slip through my fingers. Something my demon may never forgive.

He was brooding and grumbling deep within me. I was just as upset by my actions. Serenity was giving herself over to me, damn me for not taking the opportunity. It could have been my last chance to have her…but I couldn't. I knew what she was doing, exploiting me to get what she wanted. While my demonic nature had no problems with that, I couldn't bring myself to use her in such away. I had done so much to Serenity in the past, this was my amends.

Now I may never get the chance to explore what we could have been. I had spoken so honestly with her. I held no truth back that stopping her was for the good of this world. There was no denying it, Serenity was the pure essence of darkness in this mortal world, just her walking among them would attract others such as herself if not darker, more violent creatures. Even if she altered her motives and turned her back on the Vampire Nation's conquest, evil would find her like it often did me. Could the mortal world really survive having two creatures like us on this plane?

I had thought of risking it as I breathed in her sage scent, I couldn't be certain which I liked better. This new found stronger aroma of sage or that darkly enticing lavender from last night. My thoughts drifted to her perfect body trapped against mine, the way her eyes traced over my bare chest with impatient hunger, and the arousal flushed over me once again. I was a damn fool for not taking her body and making it mine.

At the moment I was cursing my new found chivalry as I scanned one of the dirt walls in the study. I couldn't think on this anymore it would only madden me further and I needed to focus for the night ahead. There was so much that I needed to do before I took Vondorian's life.

Serenity had promised little to no resistance from him, confessing that her perfectly healed condition was due to the amount of blood she drank from the vampire lord. Leaving Vondorian much like a corpse at the current moment. I doubted even he could recover so quickly from such a state, and for once since agreeing to kill the man, I felt confident I could.

I had jumped so blindly at her request because it was Serenity asking, I was being such a fool. I knew in my condition I couldn't battle her let alone that lord, still I rushed at her request. Even now my intentions weren't completely honorable, while the idea of saving what remained of the people put my shame to rest my motives were far more selfish. I wanted Vondorian dead because he had what I considered mine…Serenity.

What would take place after Vondorian was gone had yet to really enter my mind. I knew Serenity would vanish for a time, but what would I tell the clans? They were gathering in the capital. I should have never made them aware of this situation. It only complicated things. I would have to find away to explain this all to them, would they even believe me?

The last few days of my life had been so extreme even for this era of magic and mystery; this all was some kind of dark fairytale with minimal evidences to the truth. I found it hard to believe at times, and the clan leaders were still very cautious of me. It was surprising they were taking such extreme action with only my word that there was a threat before doing their own investigation. Perhaps they had information I didn't, or maybe they had heard rumors of a possible vampiric attack.

Then there was the topic of Serenity. Should I inform them of her survival? It would do nothing but lead to my own death, and Serenity would be coming for me after this whole thing was over. She would be busy. There would really be no reason to bother the clans with this information.

I could hear Rhea's disapproval inside my head as I looked for that book of hers among the piles of others. Scanning each shelf for the worn brown leather I had yet to come across.

It had to be here.

Maybe I could find some guidance inside its pages, some wisdom she left behind to help me in this matter. I knew what Rhea would do if she were in my position. Duty came first—innocence was to be protected no matter the personal consequences. Ours was a race made for sacrifice and Rhea was always willing to do just that.

I should take her lead and follow but it didn't feel right. It was my pestering gut that was keeping me from doing the safe thing, launching a protest every time I was reminded of my duty—my contract with the Opsona. What it really came down to was which was more important to me—my life and acceptance or exile and death with Serenity.

With everything in perspective, Rhea's wisdom seemed meaningless and I was drawn back to our first meeting. Me fleeing the company of Elders that wanted me dead, and the woman, Rhea, who refused to let me by. I didn't know it then but Rhea had already become my teacher. She showed me in that moment at Damus Canyon that I could control what and who I was if I willed it. Over the years that followed I learned to trust in my own strength, but not anymore.

It didn't matter how strong my will had become. It wouldn't work this time. Serenity had shaken every part of me right down to my Opsona rational.

I ruffled my hair pushing the thoughts from my mind. I needed to focus on one thing at a time. I needed to be ready for tonight, after that I could think on these insane matters all I wanted. For now I would take things as they came and figure the rest out later.

Reaching my hand to the back of my neck I tried to rub out the tension, my gaze falling to the lower shelves. There tucked away in the far corner pushed farther back on the shelf among books twice as large, I spotted it. Rhea's legacy. Its worn leather binding nearly impossible to distinguish from the shelf it rested on, such a simple item and yet it contained more than any of these other books.

Finally. I thought with much relief. If I could do nothing else right I had to at least keep this safe.

Retrieving the book I brushed the collection of dust from it, gently gliding my fingers over the familiar leather binding that had become faded and cracked from years of use. Though it appeared small, no bigger then a journal a traveler might keep in his/her pocket, I noticed it had grown in size since I had last seen it. More wear on the spine, pages ruffled and tucked inside, Rhea must have been working on something before she hid it away.

Falling back into a chair I let the moment fall over me. Opening to a random page, I traced my fingers over the rough paper and scribbled ink. Right away I was comforted, my racing mind settled and I knew Rhea was there with me. Just like all the other times I was in her presence I felt for the first time since arriving that everything was going to end the way it needed to.

This book was my answer to everything—the guidance I so needed. What if you don't like the answer?

The thought sent a fear through me and I slammed the book shut not ready to dive into its pages just yet.

A gentle whisper of a breeze brushed pass me, a hint of salt water among the fresh lake air. It was stronger here, the scent of the sea, and it became stronger the farther east one traveled. I stood there among the cliffs waiting for the right moment. This long engagement was reaching its conclusion, coming to the definite end that it was fated for. I had spent my time trying to alter destiny since we first arrived in Tentusa but there was no changing fate, and I could accept that now staring out over the Lamus Channel. This was our point of entry.

The Tentusa Valley, birthplace of the twin goddesses as it was often called when I was younger, was an interesting place. A strange perplexing piece of low lying land nestled against the Rouron lake at its north, the water flowing in from the Lamus Channel all the way from the Driapus Sea. One of four great bodies of water in the mortal planes. On the west side of the valley steep rolling hills of lemon grass perfect for animal herders, to the south gentle slopes creating a number of farming villages, and finally the borders reaching far off to the east where the grassy hills formed into the jagged unforgiving cliffs I had found myself on.

I knew this place. I had watched it change from century to century. The hills became more rounded, the cliffs more ridged, and the lake expanded farther north than before, but there was one thing that always remained true. This place was special and that was why it would be first to fall in our renewed campaign of conquest. The Vampire Nation would rise from this spot and splinter outward infecting every corner of this plane, and once there was no more hope left I would march the army to the gates of heaven. That was my purpose, the only purpose I had left in this life.

It was hard to keep that goal in the forefront of my mind when the past wandered in, the sweet memories of my childhood kept creeping back. I had felt the pull of my home the second we entered the valley, but with Cret's question about my past I found my recollection of those times far more vivid than I cared to confess.

A distant distorted memory of standing on these very cliffs as a child made its way to the surface. Taking a deep breath I drew in the smell of the far off ocean and closed my eyes remembering that moment and the child I once was.

Large fluffy white sails reflected the late afternoon sun as they traveled down the channel. Warriors clad in tight garments of blues and blacks stood off in the distance near watchtowers, a large symbol painted on their chest plates and sewn into their clothing. It was a symbol of honor and pride, the mark of the Opsona. Any enemy seeing that looping p knew the horrors that waited for them. Vigilant keepers of sacred lands and secrets, they stood watch here at the water entrance to the valley, protection for the people that traveled the long distance to worship at the marble temple of the valley.

That day I was at my father's side to greet the travelers who came for the big feast, a celebration in honor of the Peace Goddess that protected this province. It was a grand week long festival with dancing, music, and foods from all over the world. So many different people had gathered to pay tribute to the goddess, others came to perform rituals during this most holy time. Those warm summer days were brilliant and then four days later my village was destroyed.

I opened my eyes to the darkening night. There would be no more happy memories here, by morning there would be nothing left but a crying land tainted with blood. I could see the armies ships approaching, their large white sails dancing against the growing winds, their color of purity a lie. Inside those ships were things—nightmares that knew nothing of mercy only the depraved joys of torture and death.

A low growl of thunder rumbled in the distance. Tonight would be the last time this storm came and tried to cleanse this land. There would be no washing away what I was about unleash.

My father would be so disappointed, but he was dead and that was another lifetime. A life that Cret was pulling into my present to distract me. I couldn't let that happen. I had made my choice and it was Vondorian. Him and I were fated, I saw that now as the head ship passed below. There would be no stepping back from this edge, not anymore.

Drawing in one last breath of that sweet salt air I stepped off the cliff. The world rushed upward around me, the sense of falling overtaking any of my worried doubts. Air whistled against my ears and raven strands followed behind, a raw powerful energy rose in my gut as I descended upon the ships. Those second thoughts that had been stewing in my mind were left behind as I sailed downward away from my past and into the burdenless future.

Hard wood stopped my descent and forced my body down onto one knee, I had landed on the lead ship ready to drive my fate. Paused calm held for a moment as I gave my choices one last lingering consideration before the world came crashing back forcing me into my new beginning.

Sounds of interested parties started to fill the deck as Vamdari made their way toward me, weapons at the ready. It seemed word had gotten out about the Vamdari life I had taken and these men were ready to have their revenge. There was no fear in my veins despite the current situation I had just landed in. Instead I was filled with the thrilling edge of battle. Insanity spurring my actions to fight instead of flee as more Vamdari crowded the deck of the ship.

I rested there bent on one knee, head down, waiting for the right moment. Whispers of questions spread through the growing crowd bringing a smirk to my face. They knew it was me. Thoughts ranging from confusion to anger over the Vamdari I killed filled their heads.

No weakness, I reminded myself as my mortal emotion of guilt threatened to take me over.

“You no longer have a place here,” an annoying female voice announced from out of the crowd. “Leave before I give the order to kill.”

Ryder. Her scent pushed the falter of my mortal far back to a place I couldn't find. Thrill of challenge pulsed in my veins and Vondorian's blood filled me with the brutality I needed. Lifting my head I focused my scarlet hungry gaze on Ryder, her small figure easy to pick out among the others that towered over us both.

She took a step back when my eyes fixed on her, and all the whispers hushed, replaced by an edgy tension as I stood. Raven strands of my hair tracked with the wind sweeping across my vision for a second, but my stare never wavered. The faint smell of Cret's honeyed-clove scent still hung on my body, filling me with an urge to kill that twitched in my fingertips as I looked at Ryder. The fear hidden in her expression made the need to draw blood even stronger.

Her and I had battled before, many times. She had seen those moments when I lost control and raged like an animal, and yet this was the first time Ryder had looked upon me with fear. It was addicting. Her reaction making my heart beats more rapid and thunderous in my chest. I was suddenly very glad I didn't kill her last night, delighted that one of her men jumped in front of my blow. If he wasn't already dead I would thank him for saving Ryder and giving me this moment.

"Stand down, Ryder. I'm the general of this army. That hasn't changed," I commanded.

"You killed one of your own, you no longer have a rank!" she yelled back. Her statement getting a few weak cheers from the crowd.

I dragged my gaze across the masses and silence replaced the defiant cheers, these men were still under my control. They might never respect me like they did Ryder but they feared me, and that would do. They regarded me as their leader because they feared what I or Master may do to them, but it didn't leave me untouchable. I still had to pay for taking a Vamdari's life or a rebellion would not be far off.

Taking a step forward I drew my sword, a sharp inhale rushed over the crowd before I tossed it aside disarming myself. Suspense hung heavy over the deck as I drew my dagger and struck it down into the wood. There was nothing threatening about me now but my nature. Even disarmed it appeared I put these men at discomfort because they continued to inch back trying to put distance between me and them.

"It was your man I killed Ryder, take your blood." I offered with a grin allowing one of my fangs to peek over my lower lip.

"It's your life the law demands."

"And yet it's only my blood you shall get," I corrected her. "Take your strike or fall in line."

Puffing out her chest she hesitantly approached, stopping a foot away to add. "You killed a Vamdari. You must pay with your life."

A roar exploded from the crowd as she rushed me, a dagger at the ready. Ryder always had a swift lengthy grace to her movements but tonight I could see the quiver in her hand as she approached, swiping for my neck she went for the sure strike. Loss of blood so quickly through any major artery rendered a vampire stunned, giving enough time to complete the kill. How pathetic of her. I took a simple step back to avoid and then stilled Ryder's wrist. The cheers and expressions of excitement from the others halted.

I didn't give her the chance to make another move, I twisted Ryder's wrist down to my midsection and held her hand there with the blade's tip pressing against my corset. Worry creased her gaze as Ryder tried to jerk from my grasp, my free hand gripped her hair and stilled her rebellion.

“Your man went against orders. Disloyalty will not be tolerated.” It was a lie but no one would question me, not with Master Vondorian's support.

This was to be a reminder to not only Ryder but to the all the onlookers. I would not have rebels in my ranks. This was my army and no one else was going to lead it.

Squeezing her wrist I thrust her hand and weapon forward until it pierced my gut. The sharp blade breaking flesh and dripping my blood onto the deck of the ship. The crowd was hushed once again as I forced the weapon to its hilt into my unflinching body, pain coursed through me adding a nice bite that pushed to the edge of battle ready ecstasy.

"You have my blood, my debt is paid. Now fall in line." I growled, tossing Ryder back so she fell on the deck as I turned and addressed the others. "Death is the consequence for disloyalty. Any of my orders not followed will be regarded as treason against Lord Vondorian and our nation. I will not hesitate to kill each and every traitor that crosses my path."

Plum gazes jumped between me and the fallen Ryder. The pain that licked at my stomach did nothing but encourage more violence as I waited to see who would run to Ryder's aid. The first to disobey would be slaughtered. I was ready to kill but no one came. Their gazes drifted away from the commotion and I knew things had returned to normal. I was in charge and they wouldn't question it anymore.

“Lower the sails and prepare to make landfall. Anchor the ships two miles down from the city.” I gave my orders and the ship jumped to life.

Gazing down at Ryder I met her steely stare that iced over her fear. We didn't have to say a word between us to know the other was speaking a threat. This ordeal was far from over, but one day maybe soon, I would kill her. That would be the only thing to end this rivalry.

The look between us broke and Ryder jumped to her feet grabbing the first person that walked pass, "bring the general her armor." The mockery unmistakable in her tone.

Yes, very soon I would kill her.