The Snow Always Melts

8/14/2019 The Snow Always Melts

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The Snow Always Melts.

I guess I should start at the beginning. That way youll understand a whole lot better. Ok, letssee. What should I start with? I guess I should start with the past. It all started one fierce

Romanian winter. The war had been raging on for several days and casualties were heavy onboth sides. And Im not talking about a human war. The wars humans have fought are onlyschoolyard brawls compared to what we can do. Im talking about the supernatural. A warbetween what humans regard as mythslegends.folklore, told only to frighten children intobehaving. But believe me when I tell you, that these creatures of myth, most of them, are real.My tale tells of a war between two species equal in power, status and brute strength.Werewolves. Vampires. So, anyway.

It was 1214 and the noise was thunderous, though it hardly carried over the howling wind andviolent thunder. The turbulent black storm clouds grew more foreboding, growling and roaring,mirroring exactly the scene below. In the depths of the Carpathian Mountains the snow wascrimson, red rivers creating a melted path through the initially white ice carpet, pure and deep.Sweat and blood saturated the frozen ground as claws gouged deep wounds in the opposition

and enemy fangs tore fur and flesh. Howls and war screams sang through the night.

Under the cover of trees and a vicious blizzard, they fought, proud warriors, beasts. Thedeciduous trees, covered heavily in diamond pure snow, watched in still amazement as thepredators tore into each other. A stag wandered unnoticed, so caught up in their hatred werethe combatants that they ignored the ideal prey and focused all their hunting senses on eachother. Blue, feral eyes clashed with the inhuman red of its adversary, before it was gripped ina steel lock at the scruff of its neck and flung across the clearing. The giant wolf lay panting,dripping its life blood on an already stained floor of white. Its menacing growl was so deepthat the ground vibrated, cracked. All fighters stopped mid-punch, mid-bite, mid-kill. Allmovement ceased. The tall, elegant vampires, suits stained with their own and their enemysblood, stepped back as the air around the wolves shimmered and warped. Limbs lengthened,snouts receded, and fur disappeared to reveal pale, smooth skin. They stood upright, or

mostly; as much as their wounds would allow. Their clothes were tattered, loose fitting pantsand tops, feet bare and dirty. Werewolves.

Age old hatred, dating back hundreds of years before, an ancient grudge, a battle forsuperiority. All this bloodshed over one stupid, but apparently beautiful, gypsy girl who wastoo promiscuous for her own good. With her affairs she set in motion events which couldeventually wipe out two species, that werent very many in number to begin with. It was onlyone thing that stopped them destroying each other. The wounded wolfs growl was a warning.Humans were nearing and both species had vowed to never involve humans in their war.They fled. But now, almost 800 years later and that conflict is still ongoing, only now its moresubtle, more controlled, more organised. More deadly. And thats where I come in. Where anintense love takes its life, amidst darkness and hatred. Where it becomes the only light andpossible salvation of two ancient species.

Town Square, 09:45

Caissian

It was winter and the air was freezing. I barely felt it though as I sat outside the caf andwatched with sharp eyes as people hurried on across the icy roads, treading carefully lestthey trip and humiliate themselves. All huddled in their fleece lined parkas, they were, andthose silly hats with the fleece flap things which go over your ears and make you lookdeformed.

I sipped at my cooling caramel macchiato, studying the intricate designs on my mug. Thesleek black iPhone in front of me sang out Linkin Parks Numb and vibrated heavily on thetable top, sending foam sloshing over the top of my cup. Its rock melody informed me that I


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had an incoming call of canine proportions and I couldnt help but laugh when the screenflashed up an image of a golden wolfs head grinning, tongue lolling. Caller ID is truly ablessing; that way you can screen calls and only answer ones you actually want to. Mythoughts were random, mind elsewhere in an almost dreamlike state. I threw the correctchange onto the table, hearing each individual clink as the coins hit the metal top. The songdrifted away as the caller hung up. Constantine, my cousin, the constant bane of my

existence and essentially the only man I truly trusted. But I didnt want to deal with him.

Clothed in only a pair of black jeans and a black t-shirt that read I Bite When Provoked, Iunderstood the strange looks people sent my way as I passed them. I literally ran towards thewoods, too eager to escape, to be free. No-one saw me shift. I leapt into the air and relishedthe feel of my muscles contorting, lengthening. Thick mahogany fur burst from every pore asmy snout and ears were extended and reshaped. Then I was Wolf and my senses were evenmore acute. Every insect which buzzed I could pinpoint its exact location. Every leaf which fellI could catch before it was even airborne. And I could smell prey from miles away. I was theultimate hunting machine. And I was hungry.

Callum

I watched the young she-wolf head for the woods and sighed at her audacity. Stupid pup. Iwas on duty. As one of the head guards I was responsible for maintaining the illusion ofnormality. I was the spokesperson for my master. The person people were more familiar with,the one they associated with and spoke to. But I was so bored. My second in command Coryhad dutifully gone to fetch some hot beverages, so I was alone and on the lookout foranything to perk up my day. What I was truly after though, was a rumble, a fight, somethingwhich involved close contact. Cory returned with my coffee and a fresh bagel, which he thenpromptly wolfed down. Pun intended. I glanced briefly at him, curling my upper lip in disgust;he had crumbs and raisins on his chin. And then as my eyes swung left I saw, rounding thecorner, THEM. In pristine Armani suits, their hair professionally styled, shiny new loaferspractically floating them towards the caf, were the Vempiras. Rich, but then again so werewe, always dressed in the latest fashions, always immaculate. Did they never roll around inthe mud? My thoughts turned to more violent notions, twisting and moulding until they were

perfect and filled with the most destruction I could fit into such a small amount of time.

I was dancing in anticipation of a fight, but of course they would have to start it. We couldntbe placed with all the blame and punishment. Too many times had we been caught, no, thistime they had to initiate it. I whistled, a high pitched note that I knew would set their senses offon a riot, or maybe just give them a really bad headache. In a synchronised movement theyturned, their dark eyes flashing with hatred when they saw me. I leaned, the portrait ofinnocence, on the corner, feeling the abrasive texture of the bricks through my t-shirt andusing the slight pain to centre myself. I feigned a deep interest in my cuticles as I bent myhead to my hand, felt Cory stiffen beside me, his body tense, and his wolf fighting forfreedom. I glared at him out of the corner of my eye, and barely moving, I revealed themischief I had planned. I watched as he read the tactics from the light in my eyes, watched ascomprehension dawned on him and he settled into his role.Slowly, he forced his body into a

more nonchalant pose.

The two vamps stalked steadily towards us, their movements determined and exact. Noslipping on the ice for them, they barely even touched the floor, so light were theirmovements. My body trembled with anticipation of a fight. They stopped, two feet from us,and their eyes assessed our clothes with disdain. Personally, I didnt care what they thought,my clothes were fine; whats wrong with black jeans, a long black leather duster and bikerboots? Jeez, they need to lighten up! My green hair whipped around my face, long andshaggy, blurring my vision for a second.

They hadnt moved, hadnt even blinked. Finally, the fanged fiend on the right spoke, his voicevelvet smooth and deadly, Were you whistling at us, Wolf? I grinned, flashing canines, andshook my head. With a look of contempt, they turned as one and began to move in theopposite direction. Still smirking, I released another painfully pitched whistle, and watchedwith glee as they cringed and covered their ears.


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They turned, I remember their names now, and the calm, beautiful faade they normally worewas gone, broken, as their monsters were unleashed. Morja, the one who had spoken before,growled and leapt forward; his brother, Mikjov, followed suit. I soared towards Morja, pushingoff from the ground with my feet and becoming airborne for a time. I landed heavily againsthim, heard his grunt of pain as my shoulder bruised his chest. I laughed and threw myselfwholeheartedly into the battle.

Cory

I am not really a fighter, I mean Ill fight when I have to but otherwise..I dont really like it.Callum, he loves it, lives for it and when I saw the cruel calculation in his eyes I knew I wouldhave to act like him, pretend to get into a fighting state of mind, ready myself for a needlessbrawl. So I pretended to relax, to prepare, and as I watched him launch into the air straight atthe vampire, Morja I think, I knew there was no way I couldnt fight. I had to. Mikjov stared atme, his eyes as dark as mine were light. I could see red flames flickering in their depths andsteeled myself for the oncoming pain. He rushed me, hoping I would back down, but I took the

full force of his body as it crashed into me. We clashed, my body half-shifting, gifting me withrazor claws and pointed teeth. Mikjov too, had let some of his own bestiality seep into thebattle, for he now sported elongated canines and nails, so sharp they could cut throughdiamond. I dodged his practiced blows and delivered a slashing strike to his jugular, not trulyintending to kill, just a warning that I wasnt as meek as I may seem.

I could hear the shouts of startled humans, heard the cries of mothers as they called to theirchildren. An unfamiliar scent teased my nose, I hesitated, a moment before Lord Vempirasnephew stepped into the middle of the fray. He began shouting for us to stop, to ceasefighting, but we were all too caught up in the bloodlust. We were predators after all. Isidestepped, narrowly missing a dangerous swipe to my lower abdomen.

Then he was there, Malchus, alleged peacemaker of the Vempiras. Id heard that he hated

fighting just as much as I did. He broke us apart, tossing us both to opposite sides of theSquare, where we lay stunned for a while. I watched as he did the same to Callum and Morja,watched him pitch them both into the air. I got up from the ground, made harder by the thicklayer of ice, and brushed off my clothes. The others, too, had regained their feet, and wereslowly circling towards each other. I took up my place by Callum and as a pack we stalkedpurposefully onwards. If I was going to fight, I was damn well going to do it right.

Malchus

There was no stopping them. Id done what I had to to break them apart, but as soon as theywere able, they were at it again. Always clawing, always biting. I didnt understand thementality of it at all. It was stupid. I needed help. The crowd around the combatants washuge, as if the whole town had come to see, and among the humans, on one side of the ring,were vampires, my species, watching with glowing eyes as their brothers in arms fought. Onthe other side, the werewolves, cheering on their fighters with howls of joy. Others joined in,both species ripping at each other; I couldnt stop this many alone.

Then I saw him, hoping he might have some influence over his side of the mob. Constantine,great warrior and nephew to the leader of the werewolves, Lord Elseervw.He was grinning wildly as he approached, and I beckoned to him, shouting over the noise.

Help me! Its getting too far out of hand!He laughed a short, dark laugh which filled me with dread.Why would I help you? Were doin rather well, dont ya think? Were beatin the crap outta

you vamps. His eyes were bright as he contemplated the possible destruction. I stared indisbelief as he moved to join in and sped to intercept him.Please, Im trying to make peace. The fighting has to stop before someone gets seriously

hurt! I was desperate now, my voice catching.


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He laughed, loud, like a bark and in his green eyes I saw just how feral he truly was, and myfears were confirmed when he purred, Your beast partially unleashed and ya stand heretalkin of peace? Dont! I hate the very word, just as I hate all you Vempiras.Your family suck.Theyre so weak, kittens could hurt them. We were all created for battle, so lets fight! and Iwatched in a numb stupor as he charged in.

A gun shot rang out and everyone froze. So silent were the crowd that you could still here theechoes of the shot long after it stopped. I stared wide eyed at the large leather clad figure whobarged into the crowd. Long matted blonde hair fell down a bulky, broad back and bushyeyebrows slanted down over steel eyes. Hans Velsting, basically the only form of policingeither species had. His voice rolled like thunder as he spoke.Three times now you bloody monsters ave disturbed this town.Ya know, guys, there are

humans present. Don go doin all your weird shit in fronta them.

Just then, Lord and Lady Elseervw stalked round the corner of one of the shops. Igroaned. This could only get worse. Hans had already spotted them and the crowd partedwith frightened whispers as they walked over. Never had I seen werewolves with suchaggressive auras, I mean everything about them screamed Predator or Danger. Humansinstinctively moved out of the way. Again, with his loudspeaker-like voice, Hans reprimanded

them.What ave I told yall bout warrin in the streets? If this happens again, the penalty to all

participants will be death. And no matter what you guys are, I doubt even you can come backfrom the dead, ya hear me? He snorted at his little joke and placed the safety back on hisBeretta, stored it in its holster.

As he was walking away my Uncle Malachi and her ladyship, my Aunt Melodi, appeared,elegantly dressed, and Hans beckoned them over with one finger. Heads held high theywalked, all vampires following them, fight forgotten in lieu of more important people. Thewerewolves had all gathered around their alphas, Lord and Lady Elseervw, and werestood at attention.Yo, Claus, Cailen, come on over here and well talk about this issue some more in private.

Hans waited impatiently for the werewolves to disperse and the Elseervws to approach. I

followed at a distance then made my way back to the mansion, eager to be away from all thetension.

Later That Day. Elseervw Mansion , 13:12

Corthan

I was jus a lowly servant to my Masters. Ever one was higher than me, could comman me.But there are good points too. Like the fact tha no-one ever really notices ya, I ave all thecastle gossip, I m the ears an eyes of this castle. I can get into places an hear things Imreally not suppose to an no-one knows. The Lord an Lady of the castle, you know, LordClaus Elseervw an his wife Lady Cailen Elseervw? Anyway, theyd jus returned frommeetin with that orrible bear of a man, Hans Velsting an the Lady had gone off to fence withher cousin, I cant remember the name for the life of me, but I was summoned an I comerunnin and Claus jus tells me to stan there an only old the drinks tray for im. So there I amoldin this ere drinks tray an in trots a right old ponce in my opinion, well hes young actually,but he acts old, an its the Count Farek, a good upstandin werewolf you migh say, but still, Idon like im.

Where was I? Oh, yeah. So I was standin there, a livin drinks tray and they gets talkin aboutClaus only daughter, the young Miss Caissian, its pronounced THAY-SHUN by the way, shegets in a right mood if you dont say it right. An anyway, they start to talk about the youngCaissians age an how shes not quite seventeen yet an not old enough to get married.Married? I was shocked an I nearly dropped this ere drinks tray, right onto the marble floors.Count Farek was wantin to marry the little miss an good old Claus was tryin to persuade the


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pushy Count to wait until she was older. Well, little miss turns seventeen in ten days and theywas arrangin the marriage for a week after her birthday.

I didn feel bad for bein present at this particular conversation an really oped the Masterreconsidered marryin his daughter off to the weak little boy the Count really was. I reallywanted to be there when Claus told her who she had to get married to. Miss Caissian dont

like bein told what to do an shes more man than Count Farek is, actually shes probablytougher than is entire army! Well she aint gonna like the news anyhow. They sorta driftedaway down the halls then, makin arrangements, an I was jus left standin there holdin drinkstray. I set it down on a mahogany table an wandered off to continue wi me chores.

Canda

My mistress was truly dreading the conversation. I had returned from the courtyard afterwatching her fence with, and ultimately beat the crap out of, her cousin, Celiah. She wassweaty and slightly aching from the challenging workout, but I could tell that she revelled inthe fact that because of her strict practice regime, she was one of the best swords people inthe whole world, seconded in the family only by her headstrong daughter, Caissian. She loved

the girl, she truly did, but it ate away at her that she is so much better than my mistress inevery area of fighting she studied. I waited whilst she changed quickly into cleaner and lesssweaty clothes and marched purposefully down the hall to her daughters room.

I had notified my Lady Cailen of Caissians return an hour ago and she had been on her wayto check on her daughter when her husband had caught her and steered her into a corner.Whatever youre thinking now, stop it, it wasnt like that. He whispered in her ear the eventshe had subtly set into motion and though his motives annoyed both her and me, I had toagree that it was the perfect solution. Caissian was nearly seventeen and was not yet courtedby any decent male. We feared for her future, it is a well known fact that wolves need a mateof some sort to ground them and a lone wolf was more likely to attack than one who headed afamily. It had happened before. He had left it up to Cailen to dip her foot in the shark-infestedwaters that posed as her daughters view of marriage. She was gonna get eaten alive and I

hated him for putting her in that situation.

So now I cautiously poked my head around the doorjamb and peered into the vast abyss ofher room, Cailen followed close behind. A wrought iron four-poster bed sat in the middle ofthe room, draped in dark hues of velvet and silk. The black walls were decorated with herartwork, wolf eyes painted in bright colours straight onto the wall. The computer screen wason and we went towards the light, our only salvation in this never-ending darkness.Its a project. We turned, startled, to find Caissian leaning against the far wall, we hadntsensed her, hadnt heard her. She gestured to the screen again and I looked at its contents. Apage of world myths and legends based on werewolves, all the names we went by, what wecould do, all in one place.You have to get rid of this. This is dangerous to us. Her mother spoke calmly, but I could tell

that Caissian knew she was panicked. She slowly shook her head; the dyed purple hair

flowed thick and long to her hips, swaying, curling around her body.No-one truly believes this, Mom. Trust me. The things people post on this site, saying they

are werewolf hunters, theyre not. They know nothing. Dont worry, were safe. Her voice wassmooth and calming. We relaxed and she clicked off the monitor, switched on a small lampand turned to face us. She waited, expectant of something.

I heard Cailen sigh once and then launch into the speech she had practiced for this verymoment.How do you feel about marriage? Wait, dont answer that I know already. You made

eunuchs out of the other three wolves we set up for you, but not this time. You will be marriedexactly one week after your seventeenth birthday, to the Count Farek. He is noble and richand very handsome. He will make a good husband and a fine father. The girl started toprotest but Mistress shushed her and Caissians hair stood up on end, like her hackles rising,lip curled to reveal pointed canines, electricity charging the air. You will do this, Caissian!There will be no arguments..nothing!! And we just walked out, slamming the door behind


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us in a bid to release the tension which had been building inside of us during that awfulconversation. You may be laughing now but trust me, no matter what you say, if she doesntlike something and you insist, she can scare the life outta you. So, yes, to us it was an awfulconversation. Cailen went for a bath then, in the hope of relieving some of the tension in her,now stiff, muscles. I hate her daughter sometimes.

Vempiras Mansion, 14:00

Maychork

Master was planning a ball. Yule was comin up an he wanted to hold a Yule ball at theCountry House. I was run ragged wi the preparations. The Halls had to be decorated an thefood prepared an I had eight hours to do all of this, helped by about ten others. We werestrong, obviously, an fast but I really doubted our ability to complete this. It was an insanetask but dutifully we went about our work, each assigned to a certain job. I had to deliverinvitations round the town to all the folks, even them Elseervws. Humans, too, wereinvited, jus to make the party more interesting.

I posted the flyers underneath the small, wooden doors an as I came to the end of the batch,headed towards the Elseervws mansion. That place gave me the creeps, but I obedientlytrudged onwards. As I walked, I studied the intricate design of the poster an laughed at itscontent. This ball was gonna be a blast, what, with the fancy dress (of course every vampirewould come as a stereotypical vampire an the werewolves wouldnt bother to dress up in acostume; the humans would come in tacky costumes borrowed from the only fancy dressstore in town, or would make their own) an the extremely loud heavy metal music? Perfect.

I loved a good ball. I hated the preparation. Truly I did. On reachin the large, loomingmansion (it looked like that castle, you know, the one that belongs to Dracula in Van-Helsing?I love that movie) an tentatively slipped the flyer under the giant metal gate. It creaked in thewind an I jumped back, startled. I heard maniacal laughter, floating, curlin around my throat

in a mocking fist an I jus raced away from that hell house. No way was I bein eaten by themcrazy wolves.

Elseervws Mansion, 15:05

Caiman

The stupid vampire ran. I mean he just ran. We laughed and he upped and ran all the wayhome. Like the pig in that story, with the other pigs? Huff and Puff, or something like that.Anyhow, I retrieved the elaborately designed leaflet and passed it over to the Big Boss. ThatsConstantine, for all you people who are a little bit dumb. It advertised the annual Yule Ball;

Yey for fancy dress. I was being extremely sarcastic. I hated Balls, would have to go, but still,not my favourite thing. Constantine was very animated for once, pacing the corridors inexcitement, hardly concealing the mayhem he had planned. The flyer informed us that theparty started at nine oclock tonight and that was six hours away. I watched as he shoutedorders to the servants, asking for clothes of the most gothic nature. They hurried off to do hisbidding, chattering furiously amongst themselves.

Caissian came bounding up the marble stairs, stopped mid-stride when she saw her cousinand twisted, intent on bounding right back down. Too slow. He caught her as she turned andswung her around in a relatively cheerful dance. She laughed in shock at his uncharacteristicactions, the sound harmonious and melancholy. Finally, Constantine swirled them to a stop,all flourish and finesse. He spoke in a rush of words, so quick I barely caught them.Theres a ball at the Country House. Were all goin, he gestured to the wolves lounging on

the balcony, And ya have to come with us. Your Father has given his holy permission an youneed to get out more, meet people. I suppose Cailen has talked to you about Farek, but Im


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sure theyd let you marry someone of your own choosin. Providin they were Wolf and of ahigh class. He raised his eyebrows and waggled them as she pondered his words. I couldsee the thoughts flash across her face, saw her uncertainty and doubt. For some reason,Caissian was scared of the very prospect of meeting others, but eventually she nodded.Constantine grinned, handed her the flyer and encouraged, Go get dressed then. Findsomethin to wear. I dont care what. If his words seemed somewhat authoritative, they were.

But it was natural for a male and Caissian only tolerated it most times because she loved him.She turned with a playful pout, but walked down the stairs in a pensive, serious mood, herpurple braid bouncing at her hips with each step.

I switched my attention back to Constantine, only then becoming aware that he was talking tothe others. I listened as he set about giving them orders for tonight. Caissian was to be kept insight at all times. She was only allowed to leave with a wolf. Any flirting with her was to bestopped immediately unless it was a wolf. The rest of the orders were similar. I tuned out afterthe first ten and stared out across the gardens. I watched Cyna wander through the maze oftrees, play her fingers in the water fountain and skip through the arches. She was beautiful.All legs and tiny waist, fey-like with large golden eyes and silver blonde hair which skimmedher shoulder blades. And she was off limits. As Caissians best friend, the girl was almost asimportant as the Lady herself. Her confidant and servant, her bodyguard and spy. I left with

the others in a sullen silence to get ready for the party.

Sivamet Country House, 20:55

Mikhail

The music was pounding. My heart thudded in time to the heavy beats, my pulse thumped inmy head. The party hadnt started yet and I was getting restless. Manik was twitching at myside, already thinking up ways to humiliate the Elseervws. I was daydreaming about mylove. Roseana. I watched her from a distance, never got too close, never spoke to her. Justdreamed about the sweet perfection of her.Stop daydreaming about her, my man. Dance, be happy. Maniks voice was soft in my ear.I cant dance. My soul is too hurt, too heavy.Cut out the poetry, man. Youre a lover, so borrow Cupids wings and soar with them.Loves too heavy a burden, I cant fly. My words sounded pathetic even to me and Istruggled to think of something more masculine to say next.Loves too tender to be a burden What are we talking about?! He sounded extremelydisgruntled, so I answered his first statement.Is love tender? Its too rough, too rude, too boisterous and it pricks like a thorn. Again Ifrowned at the words coming from my mouth, wondering at their source.Look, if loves rough with you, be rough with love. My mother taught me that. You never getanywhere unless youre on an even keel with love. If it pricks you, then by the gods, prick itback.I scowled at my friend, marvelling at the words coming out of his mouth. We were possessed Iwas sure of it. Never in our entire lives would we spout the stuff we just had. Glancingsideways at each other out of narrowed eyes, we surreptitiously moved away from oneanother. Manik walked further, danced into the middle of the floor, gyrating his hips to thepounding music, rambling about nonsense. Something about Queen Mab and fairies. Myfriend really was quite insane at times.

The human guests arrived in groups, no-one entered alone, the vampires, in pairs, linking orholding hands. The Wolves arrived last. Most of them entered individually. The mated pairsstuck together like glue and openly displayed their affection for one another. I turned away toallow some semblance of privacy, not that they were bothered. Others had joined Manik onthe dance floor, the humans only slightly uncomfortable with the unnatural dancers aroundthem. The Wolves were all dressed in Gothic/ Victorian styles, billowing shirts and corset

dresses in a multitude of colours. They danced only with their own, swaying and twirling ingraceful moves. I stood by the bar, my glass empty and watched in wry amusement. Partieswerent my thing. Too many people all squished together in one room, too many smells,


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different touches and sounds. I spotted Malchus across the floor, elegantly attired in a ratherDracula inspired ensemble. Flowing white shirt, open at the throat, black breeches and kneehigh boots and a velvet red cape. He looked more sophisticated than his 24 years couldpossibly allow. I motioned him over with my hand, waited for him to reach my side beforehanding him a shot of absinthe. We both stood for a while, watching Manik cavort on thedance floor. The air stirred to my left, a fragrance which teased all of my senses, sweet and

flowery, like Parma Violets. I sneezed involuntarily at the sweet scent, my nose tingling, for amoment completely killing my sense of smell. I searched frantically for the source, hating itentirely, no matter who it was. My gaze fell on a petite redhead, clad in a very flimsy MorticiaAddams costume. Roseana. I snarled as she turned, regarded me with a look of deepcontempt and linked her bone thin arm through a strangers. He smiled indulgently and in thatmoment I fell so hard out of love that I swear I dropped straight through the earth. Twice.Childishly, I spun on my heel and stormed off to sulk in a corner.

21:10

Caissian

We Elseervws always enter in a flourish. This flourish was a double door entrance, flungopen by yours truly and we stalked in. We never walk. We stalk or strut. I stepped back brieflyto allow my parents to lead, followed behind them, flanked by Constantine and Caiman. Therest of the pack entered as they wanted to. As I glanced around, I noticed others of ourspecies already there, under Elseervw dominance but not part of the family. Allmovement stopped at our arrival. Every breath held, whether in reverence or trepidation. Asthe family spread out, it was as though a switch had been flicked on afterwards. The dancersslowly started to move again. I slunk off towards the bar, eager to be away from the writhingmasses. Cyna, who had been glued to my side since we arrived, subtly slipped into theshadows. I smiled gently as she left me to my thoughts. My parents had arranged mymarriage. I was almost seventeen, too young to be married, surely? I didnt like the CountFarek one little bit, arrogant and narcissistic he was everything I hated in a man. Plus he wasblond. I dont like blonds.

The air was heavy and oppressive, and I gasped for air. Snow was falling gently outside,perfect and white. I stumbled, light headed towards the patio doors. They opened silently andI gulped down large quantities of fresh air as I stepped out into the courtyard, snow crunchingbeneath my feet, freezing them. I hated crowds. I found them stifling and tended to havesevere panic attacks or violent outbursts. None of my family knew. Cyna covered for me. Aftera few more moments of freedom, I turned to go back in. The gently sweeping purple lights inthe ballroom made it mysterious and spooky and as I stepped through the doors, theysoothed my frazzled nerves. My velvet Victorian-style dress rustled as I walked and I lookedup from watching my feet to seeHim. He was totally hot. And I mean surface-of-the-sunhot. He was standing on the outer edge of the dance floor, opposite the patio doors, watchingthe pulsating bodies as if searching for someone. He has a girlfriend, I thought glumly as hiseyes once again scanned the dancers.

I swished my long dress nervously, rolling the purple velvet beneath my fingers, transferringweight from one foot to the other in an entirely uncharacteristic manner of uncertainty. I wasnever this nervous. This man was making me tense, edgy and he hadnt even looked at meyet. I shook my head in an attempt to banish the unfamiliar feelings and as my hair billowedout around me, his head snapped in my direction. In his midnight eyes I saw an intenseemotion, so vicious in its longing forsomething, I turned to run, to hide from it. Never beforehad I been the recipient of such barely leashed heat. I strutted towards the bar, feigningconfidence and sat there on a stool.

People came and went as I sat, hands tightly clasping my latest refill of absinthe. I had let thelast four chauvinistic, woman-grabbing males buy my drinks but the one sat next to me in thatinstant was extremely malodorous, and human, and so drunk I dont even think he knew hisown name. His Freddie Kruger outfit was hanging off him and he slyly slipped his left handonto my right knee. I inhaled deeply and let it out slow in a calming breath, determined not to


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cause a scene and praying to all the gods that had ever existed that he would remove hishand. He didnt. It slipped higher and I snarled, revealing canines which had lengthened in myanger. He fell back off his stool in terror, eyes wide as he took in my teeth, and backed swiftlyaway from me, trying to scream but his vocal cords had tightened and he was unable to makea sound. I laughed at his fear, the taste of it bitter and pungent on my tongue. Hedisappeared. I stared out across the floor, not seeing anything.

Mikhail

My mind was screaming at me to follow her as she ran and I did, walking slowly after her,analysing her every move. I stared at her, entranced. She was so beautiful, so in tune with thenight, a jewel amidst the darkness. She outshone all others. Had I ever loved before then?For I had not seen true beauty before her. I moved towards her, bewitched. Slowly. Gently.She had stopped moving and for a moment I lost sight of her. How long had she been out ofmy sight? Obviously a long time as I glimpsed her in the mirror behind the bar. She alreadyhad a shot a green absinthe in her hand, sat sideways on a stool, and laughing politely with ahuman male. I growled. She turned her head slightly in my direction, a small frown on herbeguiling face; I hid behind a marble column, watching her reflection in the mirror. She turned

away. I grabbed a passing waiter and pointed her out to him through the sweeping lights.Who is she? Over there, by the bar.I dont know, Sir. Sorry. He moved away again, tray in hand. I stood motionless near thecolumn and just..watched.

Caiman

Constantine bolted. One moment he was there, the next, gone. I rushed after him through thecrowds, found him with his uncle, yelling furiously. A member of the Vempiras family wasmoving towards Caissian. Constantine had seen the man ask a waiter about her, heard himtalk so reverently. Claus brushed off his concerns, too drunk to truly care, and whenConstantine moved as if to fight, Claus punched him. In the jaw. He moved away from hisuncle, hand going to his bruised mouth.Fine. Ill get him later then. But mark my words, uncle; he will pay for his offence.Constantine turned on his heel and strode away, into another area of the huge CountryHouse, to lick his wounds I presumed. Curious now, I watched the man closely as he sat justout of sight of Caissian, he watched her in the mirror as she dismissed her many suitors. Helaughed as she terrified one particularly stubborn suitor, some drunk in a Freddie Kruger outfitbut Id seen the burning fury in his eyes when the guy had placed his eager hand on theladys leg.

A tentative hand touched my shoulder, gentle and a sweet scent filled my nose. I turned,distracted, from the strange man to see the person behind that touch. Cyna. Lovely andmysterious as ever, her golden eyes peering up at me through thick ebony lashes, her petitebody encased in a golden dress which billowed out in silvery waves of material from the waist.The corset was a slightly darker gold than her eyes and the blend of colours in the dressbrought out highlights in her hair. She looked ethereal, like an angel. And the angel had herhand held out to me. I stared at it bewildered, a frown creasing my forehead. Still frowning, Igently took it and brought her satin skin to my lips. She giggled when I released her, andshook her head, perfect smile on her face. I cocked my head to the side, bemused.Dance with me. A command, not a question, spoken in a soft, lilting voice that made myknees tremble. Reverently, I gathered her into my arms and spun her onto the dance floor,forgetting the stranger subtly stalking Caissian.


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Caissian

Now I was just plain bored. The music, originally Linkin Park, had changed to Debussy. Notthat I minded Debussy, its just I needed something hardcore to take my mind off of things.The beautiful melody was seeping into me, making my soul ache at such purity, the notes like

crystal and each seemed to shimmer in the air before me. People were dancing, holdingpartners close in an embrace and it seemed everyone was on the floor. I frowned. Everyonewas on the dance floor, those sat on the outskirts, those at the bar, everyone had partneredup and were now dancing to the slow, endless music that floated from the large speakers. Iwas alone. Even the bartender had left, the waiting staff were gone. I could see my parentsswaying together, caught sight of Cyna dancing with Caiman, a radiant smile on her face andopen adoration on his. It made me happy, to know that she had finally worked up the courageto ask him out. Shed loved him for years.

I reached over the bar, groping blindly for the bottle of absinthe. I know, I know, Ive had a lot,but what can I say? Its my favourite drink. I was about to refill my glass with the clear greenliquid, when a sudden movement to my left startled me and I flinched away. It was Him. Stooddirectly next me, he was so much bigger up close, so tall, so broad. His hair was a deep

midnight black, with blue highlights, like a ravens wing, thick and silky, flowing down over hisshoulders to the middle of his back. His nose was perfectly straight, royal and strong. His blueeyes were electric, the colour of lapis lazuli with a thin black ring around the iris and darkpurple flecks surrounding the pupil. His unusual eyes were framed by thick black lashes thateven the best mascara could not duplicate and right now those eyes were staring down at mewith a strange emotion flickering in their depths.

I blinked and looked away from that piercing gaze, looking instead at the rest of his body. Hewas wearing a pristine white shirt, with a low cut neck and frilled sleeves, his broad, muscularchest was emphasised by the white, the tawny skin, visible due to the extremely low neck,(which was revealing more of his chest than it covered) was smooth and unblemished. I hadto wrench my gaze from the perfection of him and, trying really hard not to gawk at the poorguy, continued my perusal. His legs were tightly encased in black breeches, similar to those

worn by others in the crowd, but his black leather boots were not in keeping with the periodclothing. They were heavy leather, with thick silver buckles in the shape of bats and metal onthe outside of the sole. Goth boots, not unlike a pair I had at home. I glanced up into his facewith a sort of astonishment. He smiled at my expression and tilted my head up with a gentlefinger, staring deep into my eyes. I almost fainted.

Mikhail

I was there, next to her, touching her smooth skin with its delicate peaches-and-creamcomplexion and just basking in the light of her exquisite beauty. She stood, so much shorterthan me, and after avoiding my eyes, let her gaze wander over me. I could feel the heat of itas it scanned every inch of me, she stubbornly refused to meet my eyes, until I tenderlygrasped her chin and brought her gaze to mine. She realised her attempts were futile and juststood there staring up at me. Her eyes were the most vivid colour, an extraordinary blend ofgrey and purple, the pupil set strange in the iris, not central but more towards the top of it. Herlong, dark amethyst hair fell in silken curls around her body, long enough that it swept herhips and created a sort of cloak over her bare shoulders.

I love balls, I thought, noting the dress she wore. Victorian styled, gothic and beautiful in boldpurple hues, with a plunging neckline edged with black lace. The corset itself was black velvetwith satin panels and purple embroidery, folds of heavy velvet cascaded at the hips, joining tothe corset in a purple waterfall. She was a vision. A fallen angel, for the dress was surelymeant to tempt even the holiest man. Her eyes sparked as I continued to stare and the wordsthat came from her perfect mouth made me laugh aloud.Are you just gonna stand there and stare at me all night? Cause if you are, could youpossibly do it from a distance? I like my space. She smiled sarcastically up at me. Yes, a


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fallen angel indeed. I glanced around as I suddenly realised that there was no-one anywherenear us. Everyone had congregated on the floor and we were the only ones on the outskirts. Iinclined my head towards the patio doors and touched her elbow. She swept past me out intothe snow jewelled gardens. Nobody noticed us leave. Not a soul.

Caissian

I wondered slightly at his motives as he motioned towards the gardens. I brushed past himand was through the doors seconds before him. I glanced behind once, to check for spies, butI neednt have worried. Everyone was too caught up in the music, even the humans. Hewanted to talk to me; I could see his internal struggle as he searched for the right words.Finally, he spoke. Surely you are a saint, or an angel, and oh, how I have sinned, beingalone with you. What he did next shocked me.Quoting Shakespeare himself, he whispered, If I profane with my unworthiest hand, this holyshrine, the gentle fine is this: My lips, two blushing pilgrims, ready stand to smooth that rough

touch with a tender kiss. The deep timbre of his voice accompanied his words with a sinceredepth and I couldnt help but reply to his poetry.Good pilgrim, you do wrong your hand too much which mannerly devotion shows in this; forsaints have hands that pilgrims hands do touch, and palm to palm is holy palmers kiss. Hiseyes dropped to my lips as I spoke and I bit my lip, lowering my eyes shyly, smiling softly.Snow drifted around us. I didnt expect him to reply.Have not saints lips and holy palmers too? I looked up swiftly, startled by the next line ofthat famous play. I smiled in answer, growing ever shyer beneath his inquisitive gaze. He wasgenuinely eager for my response.Ay, pilgrim, lips that they must use in prayer. I did my best to look solemn, though a smallsmile was twitching at the corner of my mouth.O, then, dear saint, let lips do what hands do, they pray, grant thou, lest faith turn to despair.

I amazed myself at how fervently I wanted to truly act out this scene. All of it.Saints do not move, though grant for prayers sake.Then move not, while my prayers effect I take. Thus from my lips, by yours, my sin ispurged. My heart stuttered in my chest as he closed the gap between us, and his cool,marble lips pressed very softly against mine, I couldnt breathe. His hands framed my face ashe deepened the kiss and my hands, of their own accord, crept up to his shoulders, the backof his neck, to tangle in his hair. My lips parted against his as my breath came in a wild gasp.He drew back, eyes wild and feral and we both paused to catch our breath. I smiled, slowlyand his face mirrored my own. I realised it was my line in this little game we played.Then have my lips the sin that they have took.He feigned shocked outrage at my words, reaching for me as he said, Sin from my lips? O

trespass sweetly urged! Give me my sin again. I went willingly forwards into his arms. Hisfingers traced slowly down my spine, his breath coming more quickly against my skin. Myhands were limp on his chest, and I felt light headed. He tilted his head slowly and touchedhis cool lips to mine for the second time, very carefully, parting them slightly. The kissdeepened, but the sound of soft footsteps had us pulling back from each other.You kiss by the book, I breathed. He grinned broadly at me, tenderness evident in everyaspect of his face. We both turned to regard the intruder, and I was surprised to see Cynagliding towards us. She smiled politely at the man beside me (by the gods I didnt even knowhis name!!!) before addressing me.Your mother wants a word with you; I think were leaving soon. She smiled at me, and Inodded to her once, inclined my head to him, and vanished into the now moving crowd.


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CynaI watched my best friend disappear into the hall, and turned to watch the devastatinglyhandsome man beside me. I studied him. He was young, older than us though, maybe twentyfour, twenty five. I frowned. True, Farek was almost thirty, but he was even more immature

than a teenager. This man seemed too old for his age. He was deep in thought as he staredat the place Caissian had last been. Then he spoke, startling me out of my reverie.Who is her mother? Like caramel, his deep voice was, rolling the rs with the Romanianaccent. I was bewildered at his obvious question. Was he mentally challenged? I answeredout of courtesy anyway. Her mother is the Lady of the Woods and a wise and virtuous leader.Caissian is my best friend. We grew up together. And I have to say; whoever finally marriesher will want for nothing. I gave my mistress the most recognised title and our history onlybecause the man seemed infatuated with my dear friend. A light dawned in the electric blue ofhis eyes.Is she an Elseervw then? Awww, crap. My life is my foes debt. I glanced up at him insurprise when he spoke, mostly because I had only ever known Caissian to quoteShakespeare before, but then I quickly hurried back the way Id come. Caiman was waiting forme near the doors. With one last puzzled look over my shoulder at the guy, I went to join my

pack.

Caissian

I turned in circles as I waited for Cyna to reappear. My mother had, indeed, wished to informme that we were leaving. I looked at the ornate locket watch which hung around my neck; itwas 2:00 in the morning. Then she was there, Cyna. I wrapped my arms around her in awarm embrace before I spotted HIM leaving through the front doors. Pulling Cyna close, Iwhispered in her ear, Who is he, by the door, the one who, like me, wouldnt dance?I dont know. Her reply was equally as soft.Well, go ask him then. I pushed her forward and after giving me a feigned haughty look over

her shoulder, she dutifully went over to him. He looked surprised at her approach and Iwatched as he spoke in a rush of words. I craned my neck, rising up on tiptoes to see themboth better. He looked up in my direction and I yelped as I was caught. I fancied I heard hissoft chuckle as he looked down at my feet and saw they were bare. I hate wearing high heelsand my mother hadnt allowed me to wear my boots. But despite my humiliation, I was soonlost in the warmth of his laughter.

The pack began to disperse, some running into the woods, others heading towards cars, therest walking. I glanced around for my friend, worried about leaving her. I watched asShakespeare (what else was I supposed to call him?) gently nudged her in my direction,tilted his head towards the leaving wolves. Her eyes widened and after more rushed words,she hurtled after me. Cyna thumped into me as she struggled to stop her forward momentum,gasping for breath after her mad dash and trying to form coherent words. I waited impatiently

for her to speak, eyes wide and excited, but still she couldnt breathe. I turned to leave herand, laughing, she gripped me in a hug, wrapping her arms around my waist and whispered inmy ear, His names Mikhail Vempiras. His father arranged the party. Hes twenty four andisnt married. She winked at the last part. I growled playfully. But then I sobered up.Two problems. One: Hes too old for me. Two: Hes a Vempiras. My parents would kill him onsight. Itll never work. I sighed heavily and, leaning my head on Cynas shoulder, walked overto the limo and settled in. The ride home was the longest Id ever known.


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Elseervw Mansion, 02:30

Mikhail

Id ditched Manik and Malchus on the way home, my black Ninja quickly losing their inferiorbikes, leaving them in my dust. They wouldnt trail me, track me, theyd leave me alone. Ihoped. I stared up at the medieval castle; saw the snow-tipped turrets reaching up into thenight. Lights flickered from the double glazed windows, designed to look authentic and inkeeping with the rest of the castle. Theyd only been added in the last fifty years, before thatthe original windows had been in place but then the occupants apparently started complainingabout the draft. I shook my head as I studied the large, wrought iron gates in front of me andmeasured the height of the wall enclosing the entire estate. Taking ten steps back, I ranforward and leapt straight over the wall, with inches to spare. I landed silently on the otherside, not even the owls gave my presence away. My ears picked up the snuffling of a largeanimal to my right and I hunkered down lower behind the ancient oak. A russet wolf passed

by, briefly raising its head, and I released a breath I hadnt realised I was holding. Of coursethey would have guards in Wolf form, I thought with an angry shake of my head. I cursed myown stupidity and was more careful as I came from behind the tree.

I cast out all my senses. Heard three werewolves patrolling the right of the castle, smelledthree patrolling the left and accidentally touched one patrolling the front. He didnt howl; canthowl when hes unconscious. That made seven and I was betting there were more guardingthe front and back. I pondered my little dilemma. I had to see her. Had to hear her voiceagain. Caissian. Her name whispered from my lips, a gentle prayer to the night, asking forguidance. I breathed deep the air, scenting other werewolves, searching only for one. There!A faint trace but more potent than anything Id ever smelled before. I latched onto that scentvehemently, following it around the castle and into the grounds. I relied on the shadows toconceal me, hid behind shrubs and large trees until I reached the rear of the castle. Thegardens were vast, elaborately full of flowers, even in the depths of winter.

Snow was heavy on the ground and many times during the course of the journey I had had tostop to cover my tracks. I glanced up as a shadow flickered across one of the upstairswindows, a curvy feminine silhouette I would recognise anywhere. The snow burnt my skinwhere it landed on my upturned face, too cold to freeze. I watched as the light wasextinguished, and sighed. Well, that was my chance gone. I turned in circles, arms spreadwide as I childishly swirled in the snow. Such a beautiful night, I couldnt help but gaze inwonder at the purity of it all. I dropped my arms when some of the shrubs behind me rustled; Iscented the air, discovered that it was only a rabbit. My breath huffed out in a swirl of white,and I was just about to leave when, out of the corner of my eye, I spotted a fleeing figure, acape of black flying out behind it. The figures pale bare feet were visible beneath the cape asthey ran, my heart stuttered in excitement and I followed without a thought, loping silentlyafter.

Caissian

I couldnt stand it anymore. The confines of my room were killing me, slowly squeezing the lifeout of me. Cyna had gone to bed as soon as we had got home, but I couldnt settle, tanglingmyself in the bed sheets in an attempt to get comfortable. It didnt work. I got up and dressedin a thick velvet dress, blood red and long sleeved. I didnt want to wear pants; too restrictive.I pulled on a cape to cover my shoulders and keep the chill off my neck and chest. I glancedat my boots sat at the door but decided against them, extinguished my light and stepped into

the hallway, barefoot. It was empty except for one of the guards, Caleb. I looked at himsheepishly, and put a finger to my lips. He smiled and shook his head at my behaviour, butpressed his own finger to his lips and nodded. I beamed at him, hugged him as I silently


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skipped down the hall. Few servants pottered about in the main hall when I got downstairs butthey only smiled indulgently as I past; no one raised the alarm; it was a frequent sight. Imoved into the gardens, slipping silently out the back door.

The snow was thick on the ground, gardens covered in a layer of snow. As I stepped out ontothe thick, icy, white carpet, my bare feet sank into it, right the way up to my calf. It was cold,

but my naturally regulated body heat prevented me from feeling the true extent of the subzero temperatures. After pulling my feet free from the icy grasp, I stood bathing in the etherealglow emitted by the moon, illuminating the gardens and making the snow shimmer likecrystals. Snowflakes landed on my lashes, covered my upturned face in a frosty coating, somuch so that I felt like a cupcake. All I needed was a cherry on top of my head. I caughtglimpses of myself in the windows I past, rouged cheeks, cold-swollen lips, wide grey eyesand wild curls of purple silken hair. I looked insane. Pulling the cape more tightly around myshoulders, I scented the air, located all of the guards, and swiftly ran, ever so lightly, acrossthe frozen ground, barely skimming the surface and no longer burying myself in the snow. AsI ran, I smelled an extremely familiar scent, one unlike any other that I could not be mistaken.It was the smell of moonlight and shadow, midnight and starlight. So uniquely him, I felt myheart ache. Mikhail. My eyes scanned the surrounding area as I flew past trees and lakes, nosight o him, nothing but darkness. I sighed. He wouldnt come here. It was suicide. Tears filled

my eyes, overflowing to freeze on my cheeks. I ran.

Mikhail

I paused, once, as I followed her..Tears, I could actually smell her tears. I growled in anger.I would personally kill anyone who ever hurt her and caught myself before I turned to hunt thebastard down. I pivoted on one foot, unsure whether to just kill anyone who had ever said abad word against her or continue my pursuit of her. I went with the latter, lengthening mystrides, shrouding myself in darkness. She was nought but a red dot in the distance now, sofast had she moved. I put on a burst of speed, but still I was far behind her. Eventually, Ireached a small copse of trees, large towering ancients, Redwoods and Ash, Sycamore andBirch. I stood in the middle of the clearing, searching through the darkness for some trace of

her. It was as if she had simply upped and flown away. Raising my eyes to the sky, I scannedthe canopy, finally locating a wooden structure built into the fork of the highest tree. I steppedtowards it, and as I neared, the sound of soft sobbing reached my sensitive ears, breaking myheart with every anguished sound that was wrenched from her throat. For I didnt doubt who itwas up there, nestled in that tree. I trailed my fingers along the trunk. Bingo!! The rope ladderwas camouflaged against the bark and I grasped it, tugged to make sure it would hold myweight and carefully started my ascent.

The weeping became louder as I neared the tree house, my hands climbed faster of their ownaccord and my feet located the rungs of the ladder with more accuracy than before. Mymovements were urgent, my only thoughts about easing her pain. As I reached the top andsprung silently up onto the adjoining branch, she spoke. Soft, beautiful, melodic voice withonly a hint of a Romanian accent. Even though I had heard it before, it still amazed me and

rocked me to my very core. Her words were whispered, almost embarrassed when shemurmured them. It started to rain, torrentially, and that created a curtain between us. I couldstill see her huddled on the floor, knees drawn up to her chest, chin resting on them. Shelooked like a bright angel, glorious in the night and more beautiful than the moon, who, as Ilooked up for a second, seemed to pale with envy.

I listened at the entrance unseen and eager. Her first words shocked me, never would I haveimagined that I was the one to bring tears to her bizarre eyes.Mikhail..oh jeez, Mikhail, where are you? Cant you just leave your family, and never be aVempiras again? And if you cant, well, just love me and I wont ever be an Elseervwagain. I stood there wondering whether I should interrupt or keep on eavesdropping. Before Icould react, she continued.Its only your last name which proves a great problem, youre still yourself if youre not aVempiras. Oh if you were only related to someone else, if only your surname was different. If


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you werent called Mikhail, you would still be Mikhail, in personality and looks anyway, just notby name. Get rid of your stupid name and come be with me.I took my cue at that and stepped into the doorway. I knew she couldnt see my face; the lightwas behind me. I stood staring at her, waiting for her next words.

Caissian

I poured out my heart in my own personal sanctuary, the little wooden house set up high inthe oldest tree. I ranted and raved basically, talking as if Mikhail were right in front of me andgenerally just venting all of my anger out into the darkness. So wrapped up in my emotions, Ididnt realise that I was no longer alone. I had no idea when this person had arrived, didntknow what he was, what he was here for and in that moment I was afraid. Until he spoke.Ill take you at your word. Call me love and Ill no longer be called Mikhail. That huskyvoice, oh I knew it as though it were my own. But I had to be sure.What sort of gentleman are you, if you listen in on my private thoughts? I needed an answer,just so I could hear that voice again.If I have no name, I cant tell you who I am. My name, dear saint, I hate it. Because it is yourenemy. And if I had it written on a piece of paper, I would tear the word.

I havent even heard a thousand words spoken by that voice, and yet I know the sound. Youare Mikhail, and a Vempiras, arent you?

There was no hesitation.I am neither, love, if you hate either of them, the words rolled so lovingly off his tongue.Concern clouded my tone as I whispered, How did you come here, and why? The walls areextremely high and hard to climb, and a place of death considering who you are, if any of myfamily find you here.I merely soared over, carried by love. Your relatives cant hurt me. He stepped forward, allsinewy muscle, his shirt plastered to his skin by the rain. He looked like an avenging angel,come to save me.If they see you, theyll kill you. I was worried, very worried, to find him only to lose him again.I couldnt deal with that.

I dont care. As long as Im with you, Ill risk it. Always. His voice held a note of pureconfidence, love (for me?) softened his tone and his eyes glowed like sapphires in the gloom.The shadows moved as he walked closer. I lowered my knees from my chest, sat cross-legged and pulled the velvet dress and cape around me. I settled into the cushion Id left onthe floor and motioned to one opposite me. I knew I only had a few more minutes before Cynacame for me, but I couldnt quite muster the energy to worry about it. I was too relaxed in hispresence, usually I hated guys, but I couldnt get enough of him.

He actually startled me when he spoke again and I had to focus to understand what he wasgoing on about.Seriously, dont worry about me. The darkness will hide me, it always does. Anyway, Idrather die because of their hate, than through lack of your love. He flopped gracefully, (canyou flop gracefully?), onto the cushion Id indicated earlier and simply stared at me. I spoke

softly and chose my words carefully.You know Im hiding, dont you? He nodded slowly. I like the night, its calm and soothingand so quiet. I know you heard what I said before, too. And if it wasnt so dark, youd see meblushing for sure. But.If I asked you whether you loved me, I know that you would answersincerely that you did. And I would trust you in that, wholly. But if you swear on it, I cant trustthat you truly mean it. I paused for a breath, gauging his reactions, studying the handsomestructure of his face. I rushed on before he could say anything.If you love me, Mikhail, tell me so, faithfully. And if you think I am easy, Ill push you off thisvery high tree and beat you till you cry. He chuckled when I said that, but wisely let mecontinue. If I stopped, I didnt think Id be able to finish. Really, I like you too much, and if mybehaviour has seemed a little distant, its because of that. I will prove to be truer than anyonewho has ever had anyone to love. But since you overheard me, well..now Im aware of justhow passionately I love you. So youll have to bear with me if it seems as though Im

professing only a light love, which unfortunately, the darkness revealed. I huffed out anaggravated breath as I finally ran out of things to say.


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I realised that I was leaning towards him, and he had mirrored my movements exactly, ourfaces only inches away.I swear by the silver moon, so radiant - I cut him off after the first few words.Dont swear by the moon, she is inconsistent, changing with every month.Then what would you have me swear by? He was genuinely curious.

Swear by nothing..or swear by yourself..Maybe we should wait; you dont have toswear your love to me yet. Its too sudden, too rash, too unadvised. I barely know you. Mywords seemed somehow bland; there was no conviction behind them, no real meaning. Ilooked at him intently, watching his eyes for any reaction.Are you gonna leave me so unsatisfied? His words were teasing and amusement wasevident in his voice. I scowled through the darkness, knowing he could see me quite clearly.What satisfaction can I possibly give you tonight? Yes, I know I probably shouldnt haveasked that, given the circumstances, it just sort of came out wrong.His smile was devilish but he only said, The knowledge that you love me too is all I need,your vow to love me.

I frowned, confused.Ive already given it, before you asked.

Will you withdraw it? His beautiful voice was strained with emotion.No! Of course not! I will give it to you again. But you have to know, my bounty is asboundless as the sea, my love as deep, and the more I give to you, the more I have. Itsinfinite. I know I stole Shakespeares words, but he is so fantastic and it was the only way Icould truly express how I felt. I wasnt able to put it into words myself.This is a dream, he murmured, eyes bluer than ever, sparking.My head whipped to the side. Leaves crunching had drawn my immediate attention, and Ileapt up as if Id been caught doing something wrong. I padded to the doorway and scentedthe air. It had stopped raining and the smell of damp vegetation almost overrode the otherscents. Cyna. It was definitely Cyna. She often came for me when I ran off during the night.Dawn was just beginning to break and the soft reds and purples rose up out of the inkydarkness.Its Cyna. She makes sure Im ok. I turned to him, eyes wide as I contemplated my next

words. If your intentions are, and I dont mean to be old fashioned, honourable, and yourpurpose marriage, then get word to me tomorrow, give me a time and place and Ill be there.Ill give you all of myself and Ill follow you anywhere. The last words were all but breathed,the intensity of my love making me breathless.Caissian!!!! Cynas voice carried clear through the night, soft as her shout was, and I lookedin the direction it was coming from. I sighed before turning back to Mikhail.I better go. I could hear the pain in my voice, cleared my throat to perhaps next time soundstronger. A thousand times goodnight, Mikhail. I soared from the tree house and landed in acrouch at the bottom. One last look; I walked away.

Mikhail

I watched her leap from the branch; saw her crouched low on the floor. Watched as she liftedher head to look at me before walking away. Then the sweetest sound ever filled my ears.Pssst...PssstMikhail. I peered out from the dwelling. Her eyes shone up at me.What is it, love? My response was as calm as I could I make it, though my body wasshivering, ecstatic.What time should I meet you tomorrow?Nine. In the morning. Im free then.Ok, then. Nine, tomorrow. She exhaled staccato breaths. I smiled as she nervously fidgetedon the ground, wanting to say more. Ive forgotten why I called you back.Let me stand here until you remember then. She giggled at that, a carefree sound.But Ill forget again, with you standing there, remembering how I love your company.Then Ill still stay, so you forget, and remember no home but this one.Its almost morning, I really should go. Yet still she hesitated.

Her eyes seemed to spark as the voice called out her name again. She whipped her head tothe side and her temper flared. As soon as it came it was gone, like a wave breaking on the


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shore; gathering speed, racing, growing in power before gently breaking against the shoreand disappearing back to whence it came.A sad resignation filled those beautiful eyes, still staring up at me. I knew her next wordsbefore she said them; they were my own.Good night! Good night! Parting is such sweet sorrow, that I shall say good night till it bemorrow.

I laughed at the quote, noting just how fitting it really was. She smiled in return and lookedonce again to the rising sun. Unable to stand the distance between us much longer, I leaptfrom the wooden hut and hit the ground running, reaching her and sweeping her up into myarms. I stared deep into her eyes before kissing her softly on the lips, tenderly. Releasing herwas the hardest thing I ever did but I forced my muscles into submission, and reluctantly theycomplied, setting her bare feet back onto the snow. I felt empty without the warmth of her inmy arms. I nudged her gently in the direction she needed, pushing her lower back to get hermoving.You better go now; I dont think I could ever let you go if you stayed much longer. The wordstore at my throat as I spoke them, breaking my heart. She smiled sympathetically,understanding and walked away without a backward glance. I lost sight of her as the shadowsof the trees embraced her. I headed in the opposite direction, to the end of the estate andscaling the wall, began the long trek to the cave with a lightened heart.

Next day, Elseervw Mansion, 08:01

Cyna

After the other nights rather amazing ball, and after finding out my best friend was in love witha vampire, I have to say that I was rather surprised when I didnt wake up with a headache. Iactually have no idea what woke me up because Id had a long lie in planned and hadnt evenconsidered waking before twelve. Maybe it was the playful howls of the cubs as they frolickedin the snow, or the unwelcome sun which came crashing through the window. Or maybe itwas the sound of Velvet Revolvers Slither blaring from the next room.

I didnt really know, too disoriented. The light blinded me before I was able to stumble over tothe window and shut the blackout curtain. Twice I tried to return to the peaceful reprieve sleepprovided, but was unsuccessful. Frustrated, I dressed in jeans and a black peasant blouseand stepped out into the corridor. Ill go and see if Caissians awake, I thought as I wandereddown the hall a short way to the next room. I knocked, no answer. I called her namenothing. I could still hear the music, quite loud and persistent. It was back at the beginning,playing over. I turned the doorknob and stepped inside. My eyes gradually adjusted to theartificial gloom and I was able to make out the shape of Caissian, curled up in her covers,asleep. The music was louder now and I hunted stealthily around her room for the source.Aha! I picked up the iPhone and looked at its flashing screen, the music sounding from thesmall device. I rolled my eyes as I read the message. Caissian really was insane if she hadVelvet Revolver as her message tone, especially because it was linked to a certain vampiresnumber. She was really serious about the guy if shed exchanged numbers with him. I rereadthe message:

Heya, love.As ordered by your lovely self, I am telling you the preparations for today.Meet me at Snails cave at 10: 00 and there, love, well be united eternally.

Missing you terribly,Keep my heart safe until we meet again.

Mikhail xxxxxx

PS. You dont have to wear white, my fallen angel.

I almost gagged at the syrupy sweet words, worrying about his true intentions. I moved furtherfrom Caissians sleeping form and called the number on the message. It rang only oncebefore a sleepy, husky male voice answered.


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Caissian? Is something wrong? He sounded genuinely worried.Sorry Mikhail, its not Caissian. Its Cyna. We met at the ball.Oh, yeah, I remember. How are you? So polite he was.Im fine, thanks. I just read your little message here and I swear, if youre not completely sureabout marrying her and all you really want is a girl on your arm, I will rip you to shreds startingfrom the bottom and then feed you to my family. Are we clear? There was absolutely no

hesitation with his reply.I am incapable of hurting her. Today at Snails cave, she will be married and Iswear that foreternity I will do everything I can to make her the happiest wolf alive. There was suchsincerity in his voice, that, as he spoke, tears welled in my eyes and a sob lodged in mythroat. I said goodbye and quickly hung up.

Caissian never stirred throughout the whole conversation and I placed the phone back on herdresser. I padded over to the bed and sat down on the edge, just watching. The digital clockflashed purple numbers at me. 08:20.That meant she had an hour and a half to get ready. Igently shook her shoulder, stroking silken strands of hair away from her face, angelic inrepose. She stirred, eyelids fluttering open, the colour of her irises stolen from a turbulentstorm. Her nose wrinkled and her hands rose to brush sleep from her face. She smiled at meuntil she saw the time. A confused frown creased her brow.

Is something wrong, Cyna? She questioned softly.You got a text, the clueless girl shrugged her shoulders and I had to add, from Mikhail, toget any response from her. Her eyes widened and her lips parted in a small o. She wassuddenly animated, leaping forward, reaching for the phone. But I was quicker and across theroom in a heartbeat, keeping the phone teasingly out of reach.

She pouted at me from her place on the floor.Give me the phone, Cyna. You have to give me the phone. I shook my head.Give it to me, or at least tell me what it says. Does it say anything about a wedding?Are you allowed out today? No curfews? I asked, my excitement mounting in accordancewith hers. She shook her head in answer to my question. I smiled as I spoke my next words.Then you must be at Snails cave for 10:00, and there, my little friend, will you be married.Gods, I never thought Id say those words to you. We both laughed and I handed her the

phone so she could read the message herself. Her eyes filled with tears as she read and,once finished, looked at me enquiringly.Does he mean it? Cyna, is he for real?As it says in his message, youre gonna get married. He told me so himself and he loves youmore than anything. I could not have wished for a better husband for you.She squealed happily and grabbed me into a hug. I couldnt help but get caught up in herhappiness, and we both fell back on the bed giggling.

After a while though, she got up and started to rummage around in her closet, looking for adress, I supposed. She pulled out dress after dress, holding them up for my inspection andtossing them onto different piles. She finally settled on a velvet and lace corset dress of adeep scarlet, interlaced with thin panels of cerulean silk. I did her hair as she applieddramatically beautiful makeup in the mirror. She looked so stunning. When I glanced at the

clock again, it was 09:33 and, after she steadfastly refused to wear shoes, I pushed herbarefoot out of her room. I watched from the window as she crossed the grounds and wentout through the gate, which opened automatically and allowed her to gallop right on through.No one would find it the least bit strange that she was riding bareback into the village. Shehad never bothered to learn how to properly tack up a horse and ever since she first startedriding, always simply mounted the horse as it was and controlled it with her heels and voice.People thought she was crazy; the horse she always rode had a rather violent reputation; ifanyone other than Caissian tried to ride him, he would buck and rear, spin and roll like one ofthose western broncos you see in films. With Caissian, he was gentle as a lamb. As I watchedthem ride out together, I sighed, wondering whether what I was allowing her to do, was thecorrect thing. Hopefully that made sense. I turned away, and let fate take control.

Caissian


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I cant even begin to explain what I felt. A myriad of emotions, though unfortunately there wasenough room left for doubt to creep in and the stallion faltered as my mind was distracted bythe intruder. Cyna had dutifully helped me dress, but I had noted the constant furrowing of herbrow and recognised it as a sign of her worry. She didnt know whether what I was doing wasright. I understood. Really, I did. But nothing could have stopped me, not the apocalypsewhich the blind man on the corner with his board kept on predicting was imminent, not Mrs

Craas escaping goats, nothing. I galloped through the towering gates and right on throughthe village, past the small convent on the outskirts and started my ascent into the mountains. Iused an old pig trail to navigate my way through the heavily forested area, though the trailitself was still too overgrown to be of regular use. I pushed my horse on through theshrubbery, watching for signs of stalkers. Nada. Nothing. Zilch. I was alone. The groundbetween the trees had only a light covering of snow, the heavy canopy preventing the delicatesnowflakes from landing. Mist curled its non-corporeal tendrils around my ankles andcaressed my horses flanks, whispering and sighing. It was stunning. Flowers were all gonebut the evergreens sparkled and glistened in the sunlight. A winter hare darted into a bush,crossing the path in front of me and momentarily spooking my horse. He reared, eyes rolling,forelegs flailing. I soothed, my voice pitched low, nudged him gently with my heels until hecalmed enough to proceed. I had fifteen minutes and the cave was still a way off. I urged thehorse into a canter and guided him through the trees.

I was slightly out of breath when I arrived at the opening in the mountain side. Carved into therock, I assumed it had been done by nature, was a great cavern. The opening was only largeenough to fit a grown man through and it madly deceived anyone who wasnt familiar with it; ithid a grand sized cave full of pools and stalagmites, stalactites and crystals. I parked my rideoutside, told him firmly to stay, and prayed he was as obedient as the dogs. I squeezedthrough the gap easily, stepping from the icy forest into a warm dwelling. A beaten couch satin the middle of the main part of the cave, the floor quite smooth and flat. Tunnels branchedfrom the central area into smaller caverns and finally led deep into the core of the mountain.No-one but me and the inhabitant knew what was there. No-one was waiting to greet me andI was somewhat disappointed but instinctively wandered through the smallest tunnel, either Idget lost or meet my future husband. I hoped for the latter and, crossing my fingers, advanceddown the passageway.

Snail

I knew the moment Caissian stepped through my doorway, heard her heartbeat quicken inexcitement. Shed find the right place, eventually. I glanced at the vampire waiting so patientlyat my side. So this was the one who had finally tamed our wild little wolf. He was a veryamiable gentleman, all etiquette and cordiality. The Vempiras name bled from his every pore,yet I sensed a ferocity that could equal Caissian, a deep wildness, more beast than anythingelse. They were well matched. He stood next to me, dressed in a black Armani suit, his shirt apristine white and his black loafers polished to a shine. He was also devastatingly handsome

(from an entirely non-gay point of view), well muscled, long, black hair and piercing blue eyes.He treated me as an equal, was friendly and didnt look upon me with revulsion or hostility. Ihadnt laughed that much since Caissian had last visited. Yes, I approved greatly of herchoice. I knew the moment he sensed her, he tensed and his heart raced, his breathing spedup to the point where I thought he was hyperventilating, then he seemed to regain control buthis body strained towards the entryway. I heard her footsteps, louder the closer she got andthen she was there, looking like a vision in red and blue.Theres the lady, now. Looking radiant, I might add, sweetie. Ive never seen a more beautifulsight.You look like little red riding hood. Mikhail smiled broadly as she entered, and the smile shereturned was no less exuberant.More like the wolf, she was across the room in two seconds flat, up in his arms and clingingfiercely to him. He held her close, the beast contented in both of them.

Come on, guys. I cant leave you two alone for a minute can I? Not until after youre married.Lets get this marriage under way.


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The ceremony was short and sweet, the I dos were powerfully announced, and the youngcouple overjoyed when I pronounced them husband and wife. Now, dont worry, I am actuallyqualified to marry them, I was ordained as a priest before the mutation began. I was normallooking up until my eighteenth year. My mother was a werewolf of extremely low birth, my

father a vampire of the same rank. I am a hybrid, banished by both species. On myeighteenth birthday, the full power of both species ripped through me, physically mutating mybody until it formed the body I have now. I am very small now, my back extremely distendedand resembling a snails shell, hence the name. My hair grows very thin now; my eyes arentas bright as they used to be. Mikhail and Caissian are the only ones who treat me like anyother person. They sat laughing on my couch, holding hands, drinking celebratory wine. Iswitched on the TV Id managed to hook up to an electricity source and sat down next tothem. They didnt flinch, not a bit.

A week later, Town Square, 10:54

Malchus

It was absolutely boiling. I knew theElseervws were around, could smell them and if wemet up with them, I knew there would be no escaping a fight. Manik was hyped up, teasingme until I almost went mad. Calling me trigger happy and saying that Ill fight for no otherreason than someone looking at me funny. It wasnt true. He was in extremely high spirits andI wondered at the source of his vivacity. After a while, I relaxed when no threat came upon us.Manik couldnt seem to drop the subject of my apparent need to fight, he danced around melike a man possessed as I lounged with my friends on the steps of the town hall. My suit waspinstriped grey, and the jacket lay on the marble steps beside me. I tried my best to keep itclean but I never seemed to accomplish it. Myron was playing on his phone beside me,probably texting some girl. People past by, all greeted us, some with a wave, others a hello.We were much better liked than the Elseervws, accepted better. The wolves were toopredatory, even the humans recognised it, and though they were respected, people fearedthem too much to like them.Oh, crap. I slapped Maniks shoulder as he sat down beside me. Here come theElseervws.I dont care, his flippant tone answered. I glared at him but he just laughed and leaned backonto his elbows, tapping his foot to a silent rhythm. I tensed as they approached us, leathertrench coats billowing out behind them, Goth boots pounding the tarmac. Why were thewolves always Goths? I mean seriously? What was with the coloured hair and black clothes?Its cool, and it suits us. Constantine answered my thoughts until I realised that Id spokenaloud.

He stood grinning at us, with his friends fanned out behind him, all ready to fight.I want a word with one of you. His voice aggravated me, portentous ass.Only one word? Combine it with something else; make it a word and a strike. Manikengaged the psycho in a verbal battle, not letting anything go by without a retort.Give me reason to fight and Ill fight. I truly hated that guy.You cant fight without a reason? Im disappointed in you, Connie, Manik was really pushingthe boundaries now.Manik, you consort with Mikhail- Constantine didnt even finish his sentence before Manikwas up in his face.Whoa, man. Consort? We are not his little jesters! He started dancing round in a circle,slapping his hands on his knees and tapping a stick on the ground. Heres my fiddle-stick,dance, boy, dance! I put a stop to it, not liking where this conversation was going.Were in a public place, Constantine, where anyone can overhear. We can either go to amore private place and talk about this or you can leave. Now.

Unfortunately, Manik just had to thwart that offer. Let them look. Im not leaving for anybody.He smirked, then his expression grew even haughtier and he nodded his head in the directionof the caf. The Elseervws turned as one to see what he was indicating.


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I am hurt. Maniks voice was soft with the pain. A plague o both your houses, little thing foryou there, Mikhail. So you understand. Mikhail chuckled sadly at his attempt at humour. TrustManik to joke as he lay bleeding to death. Its just a scratch, guys. Dont worry.Courage, man, you cant be hurt that much. Denial. I never thought I see that on Mikhail.No, its not deep or wide, but ask for me tomorrow and theyll lead you to my grave. Hisvoice was getting weaker. The guards had released me and Malchus and we knelt beside

them both as Manik bled. Mikhail had packed the wound with cloth to slow blood loss, but weall knew that even with a doctor present, nothing could be done.

Hed been stabbed by a vampire-made sword, the only thing that could kill us with even theslightest wound. The same applied to vampires being killed by werewolf-made swords. By thelook of shock on Constantines face, hed forgotten that the sword he carried was the onething that was sure to kill us.Whyd you get between us? I was hurt under your arm. Manik whispered to my cousin.Mikhail turned ashen, and anguish seared itself onto his features.I was only trying to help. His voice was aggrieved. Maniks body seized and his eyes glazedover. He died on an exhalation of breath and a wave of grief washed over us. I saw, out of thecorner of my eye, Mikhail stiffen, his mouth turned harsh and his eyes smouldered with an allconsuming rage. He rose up slowly, to his full 6ft 7 height, and towered over the wolf. I moved

quickly out of the way as I saw his blue eyes turn ruby red and his canines extended past hislower lip. His upper lip curled back over them, revealing all of his pearly whites.You killed my best friend; he was like family, werewolf! It seems my wifes beauty has mademe somewhat effeminate, and softened whatever anger I could have drawn upon. But trustme when I say that I will not hesitate to kill you now. You can keep Manik company. Hegrowled the words, he petrified even me. Constantines group shrank back under the force ofhis anger. Constantine did not.You were his friend. Youkeep him company! Constantine charged, sword in one hand,dagger in the other.

Mikhail flipped Maniks fallen blade up off the floor with the toe of his boot, and twirled it in hishand. His free hand grew razor sharp claws, made for tearing flesh. Without warning, Mikhailjammed his elbow into Constantines nose. Blood squirted and the wolf howled as he tripped,

falling away from striking distance, and flinging gravel in every direction.Get up! Mikhail commanded.Youll pay for that! The werewolf jumped to his feet and ran straight at him, continuouslystabbing forward. My cousin dodged the swords, dropped low and delivered an uppercut tothe wolfs jaw, and another into his stomach. An elbow to the back of his neck had him backon the floor. Unfortunately, Constantine recovered quickly and performed a flying kick toMikhails head. It never landed though. Mikhail grasped the leg that came at his head andtwisted; Constantine righted himself before he hit the floor. He came at Mikhail, swordforgotten for the moment, fists delivering practiced blows. My cousin took all of them with nextto no damage. He deflected the ones that would cause harm and when Constantine began toweaken, landed punches of his own. The wolf reclaimed his sword and pressed forward,stalking. Mikhail circled quickly, blade blocking. I could tell that his muscles were beginning toburn, and sweat began to run rivulets down his face and chest. Constantine, looking

extremely tired and worn, arched high, intending to puncture his shoulder on the downwardswing, but Mikhail hit his wrist and Constantine dropped the sword. A forward thrust fromMikhail and the wolf was impaled. He pulled the sword from the body; Constantine wasalready dead.

The wolves howled but didnt attack, they knew that their boss had fought well, but lost to amore skilled opponent. They respected that. They took their fallen leader and walked away.Youve got to go. Run, somewhere, anywhere. Hide, please, cousin. I heard Malchus beg. Istepped up beside him and reiterated the plea. Neither of my cousins were stupid and withoutanother word Mikhail took off. We stood there for a while, unable to think past the spectacleand the death of a very dear friend. Sure we regretted the death of Constantine, but we werehardly going to grieve for him. Our senses alerted us to the arrival of Hans Velsting.Apparently the day couldget worse.

Hans Velsting


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I really hated those supernatural freaks. Always ruinin my day. Id got a call from some littleold lady who was complainin that the noise outside her ouse was too loud. So, I ad to comedown an investigate. An what do I find? Bloodbath. Vamps against Weres. I was damn tiredof it all. According to the witnesses, Constantine Elseervw and Manik Vempiras adstarted playfully fightin. Then it had got out o hand and Constantine ad killed the Vempiras

boy. Is friends ad then attacked, well one of them, Mikhail, who I ad always thought was avery sensible guy, and hed killed Constantine. All the witnesses said basically the samething. His friends gave the same version, if not wi more detail. I didnt know what to do.Lady Elseervw came loping into the square, in Wolf form, furious as hell, springin at thevamps which remained. I fired a shot an she swerved to the side, runnin at me, changin asshe did. She stood in front of me, eyes enraged, tears flowing down her cheeks.My nephew is dead!!!! How did that happen when you are supposed to be policing?!!! Youbetter talk quick, before my husband gets here and kills your ass!!! Explain, NOW!!!! I ad anangry she-wolf in my face and I ad to talk fast if I wanted to live. I told her everything,explaining again when Lord Elseervw finally appeared.They demanded justice for the death of their nephew, didnt believe a word when I recountedthe witness statements.Mikhail

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The Snow Always Melts