Flashbacks and New Beginnings

Every move, every breath, every bloody heartbeat on the battlefield coursed through me as I pivoted, swinging my Ulfberht, slaying everything in my path. My mother, Narah, fought a few meters from me. Her sword twirled over her head as she held her ground, shield raised and valiantly fighting off the encroaching warriors. One by one, they fell under our feet as the Saxon army advanced. The metallic scent of blood filled the air as the bodies piled up around us. Moments later, my world flipped on its head as Narah’s cries of anguish rose above the clatter. I turned my head in her direction as she crumpled to the ground. The cowardice of a man stood over her, covered in blood and gore with his axe in his hand. He let out a roar of satisfaction that made my blood boil. I answered with an ear-piercing scream as he dissipated in a cloud of smoke, sprinkling the earth with his ashes. I spun in outrage, my blade outstretched. Warriors fell all around me, be it friend or foe, I didn’t care. My heart and world had just crumbled, and there was no turning back. I rushed to my mother’s side, but it was too late. She was gone.

***

“Noooo!” My own shout woke me, the scene that replayed night after night lingering in the air around me.

I lumbered my large frame out of the luxurious bed, unphased as my bare feet hit the cool floor of my flat. I walked into the kitchen stark naked and started the coffee, then turned to pour myself a bourbon. “Going to be one of those days,” I mumbled to myself. 

Diminutive, pale arms wrapped around my waist, her hands not quite reaching each other as she kissed along the tattoo on my back. I rolled my eyes, plastered on a smile and turned to her, kissing the top of her head. “I made you coffee if you want it. I have to head to the office, so I am off to shower and dress.” I turned without another word and headed to my room to prep for the day.

I stepped into the shower, turned the water on hot, and hoped to hell the broad was gone before I emerged. I leaned into the spray, resting my head on the cool tile wall as I sighed. Noises in the bedroom told me she was dressing, and a few moments later, the door to my penthouse slams. “Thank gods she got the hint.” 

The water cleared the remnants of the dream from my mind as I finished washing. I dried off and walked to the wardrobe, pulling out my tailored charcoal Armani suit and a chartreuse shirt. I dressed in relative silence, adding a dark grey tie, socks, and Santoni shoes to complete the ensemble. Walking to the fireplace, I pressed a hidden panel and the faux wall retracted, revealing several handguns, an AR15 and my axe. The axe that killed my mother. Running my fingertips down the blade, I kissed it before sliding it into its holster and onto my back, covering it with my suit coat. I finished off my bourbon and headed down to the car park, climbing into my Aston Martin.

Pressing the ignition button, it roared to life, and I threw it in reverse, squealing through the car park and onto the freeway. I took the long way to work as I did on mornings such as these, stopping at a park overlooking the bay. I took in a deep breath and tried to clear my thoughts. A full day ahead needed a clear mind and a calm presence. I remained a few moments longer before climbing back into my car and heading to the office. Finding a suitable building in this city that never sleeps was a challenge in itself, and the crew had just completed construction. Today was day one in the big apple, and the entire staff would be present for the rundown of operations.

As I pull up to the skyscraper, a young man meets me at the front with a broad smile. “Mr. Blackthorne, I presume. We have been awaiting your arrival. Allow me to park your car so you may begin the debrief. Everyone is assembled in the dojo, sir,” he chirped brightly. A little too bright for my mood, and I grumbled as I got out. “Scratch it and die,” my voice echoed in a snarling growl. His eyes widened in fear as he nodded and climbed in timidly. 

Control Cade. Control. You can’t start a new venture with your staff trembling. Respect is not fear, Cade. I rolled my shoulders and took another deep breath before entering the dojo. The amassed staff instantly hushed, standing at attention in military fashion. “Good morning all.” My deep voice rolled through the room like thunder. 

“Morning, sir!” The response was booming and unified, rebounding through the room, signifying they were ready to get to work. 

“Good. There will be a rotation of training and practice every day.” I gazed at the cyber-security team and office staff, glaring at them pointedly. “Yes, even from you. So I hope you brought gym clothes.” I continued sweeping my gaze around the room. “There will be no fraternization between staff. None! Is that clear?” There were some grumbles and murmurs around the room, and I waited for it to die down again to resume. “We cannot afford distractions or putting some love affair above the safety of our clients. Shagging shifts the priority to protect their lover over the protection of the client. Is that understood?”

A moment of hesitation weighed heavily in the room before they responded with a scattered, “Yes, sir.” I rose a brow at the congregated staff. Their stance returned, and they belted out a unified, “Yes, sir!” 

“Glad to hear there is no misunderstanding. Now, get to work.” They all began to mingle and scatter. Several lingered to check out the accommodations of the dojo. I approached some of the remaining staff and asked them if anyone was interested in a sparring match to test their mettle against their boss. A few grinned in satisfaction or arrogance and agreed, removing their suit jackets, draping them on practice dummies. I smirked and removed mine as well, pressing a button on the wall unit, turning on some Heilung as I flexed my shoulders. I could feel their eyes on my axe strapped to my back and turned to address them. “Don’t worry, gentlemen. I won’t use the axe. Just a little fisticuffs between warriors.” I removed my shoes and stood in the middle of the mat, taking a fighting stance, and beckoned them to begin.

They exchanged looks then returned their gaze to me as one spoke for the group, “All of us, sir?” I grinned, nodding in affirmation. They charged me, some emitting a roar as they ran towards me. I launched off my heels as they approached, clothes lining one, gripping another as I sent him flying across the room, pivoting as I swung my leg out, swiping another off his feet as I ducked the arm of a fourth. I came full circle, stopping my fist a mere centimeters from the fifth. The men stared at me, breathing heavily as I straightened, adjusting my holster with a smirk. 

“Again?” They looked between themselves then back at me before shaking their heads and retrieving their coats. 

“Looks like you should practice a bit more. If I can take you alone, you are no match for a team of men, and I expect the best.” They nodded and trudged out of the dojo. I collected my jacket, turned off the music and went to my office, opening my laptop to begin my day. I took a moment to gaze out the window onto the city, observing the new view when something inside me began to stir. I ran my hand across my chest and abdomen with a furrowed brow. This is odd. Must be the early morning bourbon. I’m not as young as I once was. I shook my head, turning to the task at hand as I pushed the feeling aside. Nonsense, I’ll be fine as I always am.

I sat at my desk and poured over the docket of new clientele in the states, and began my research. Otis Paramore: philanthropist, entrepreneur, Manhattan. Steven Collins: multi-estate owner, wall-street trader, wife- Estelle, children- Esme and Charles.  The list continued as I dove in, pulling every dark and dirty detail of every name on the list. Dark-web, childhood, the works, nothing is secret if you know where to look…and I did.

Angel No More

I shook my head, standing from the bed to join him. Sliding my arm around his waist, I gazed up at him. “You are not the one I am speechless by. I knew then you were an animal. All Vampires are. Including me. We unleashed the primal animal within when we stopped our hearts. I don’t fear you Angel. I just don’t like not being in control.”

“You will learn more control in time. For what you have been through in the last few days, I am extremely impressed and damn proud, my love.”

As he smiled down at me, Angel suddenly recoiled, grabbing at his face as he let out a strangled “Dammit!”

I cupped his face, my brows knitted. “Baby! My night! Look at me! What is it?”

He looked up at me, confused pain in his face. “Is there something wrong with my left eye?” He asked. “It feels…. odd…”

Gazing at his face, I look his eyes over with scrutiny. As I did so, I noticed something utterly shocking. “Gods below!”

“What? What’s wrong?”

I widen my eyes, “Angel…your eye…it’s healing!”

Angel fell backwards with a thump, his face slipping from my grip as he let out a low whisper. “…..what?”

I took a step back then vanished, returning with a hand mirror. “Look!, Angel, Look for yourself!”

Angel stared at the mirror, a deep frown etched on his face, which became a look of completely shock. Perhaps sensing his distress, Eechee slinked up and nuzzled his jaw

I ran my fingers through his hair, pulling it out of his face so he could see better. “Look, my love.”

“I…” he muttered, as he gazed into the mirror again. “How…. there should be a scar…. where….” He fell silent 

“Angel…look at me.” he looked up at me. “I love you, all of you…Whether it’s scarred or not You are my night and my knight.” I ran my hand through his hair, continuing on around to hold his head. “Scars, past, whole, or broken. And our entire future…together.”

“Fen….” he asked, trailing his finger over his eye as he spoke in a voice so soft and low it made me worry. “Just so I am sure… that scar is gone….?”

I nodded, smiling at him. “It’s gone, my love, promise.”

Angel paused, then pulled me into the hungriest and most passionate kiss he had ever given me. When he leaned back, there was a strange look in his eyes.

“Aleister.” He said quietly, almost quietly enough that I didn’t catch it.

“Aleister? Who’s Aleister, love?”

“I… I am….” He gave me a weak smile. “My name is Aleister LaChance. Not Angel.”

Smiling softly as I cupped his face, “Aleister, my dark prince’s name is Aleister.” Leaning forward as I rested my head against his I kissed him softly. “Why did you change it?”

“I changed it because of my past. Not out of fear of those who look for me. But to make sure they cannot hurt the ones I love. I chose to call myself Angel because I wanted to move away from the demon I had become.”

“Well you are my angel, and always will be.”

A smile crossed his face. “Always… I like the sound of that.”

“Are you okay? You told me something that meant a great deal to you and I called you by your name.” I stroked his cheek as I gazed at him.

“I am…. surprisingly… say it again….”

Looking him in the eyes, I said it again, “Aleister.”

To my surprise, he didn’t  flinch. “My name….. is… Aleister….” he smiled. “My name is Aleister.” The smile grew and he began to pepper kisses all over my face. “Thank you, Fen.”

Giggling between kisses I managed to reply, “I love you Aleister”

“I love you too….” he laughed, before his smile dropped a little.

Cocking my head in concern, “What is it?”

“I… I feel different. Like for the first time…. I don’t feel afraid of who I am.”

I smiled at him, “and I feel truly loved for the first time.”

“You are loved, Fen. Now and always.” He pulled me into a tight hug.

I relaxed in our embrace, stroking his head as it rested on my shoulder. The bliss of our silence together filled the room with a peace we hadn’t known in the past few weeks.

Leaning back, he spoke. “I love you, Fenella. No matter what lies ahead and what lies behind, you are the light in my darkness, the blood that flows through my veins and the reason I now stand proud to call myself Angel no more…”

I gazed into his eyes, filled with a love I have never known. Stroking his face as I continued, “You changed my life…saved my life, then consistently show me love and compassion. “I never imagined I would ever witness, much less feel, daily. My love, my dark prince, my night.”

“Love, my dear Fen, is a promise. A promise to another that the darkness in their souls and the pain in their hearts is no longer a burden they share alone…”

“If I fell, I knew you would be there to catch me, and if you couldn’t catch me, you would fall with me. But I have already fallen once, and the reward was worth the pain.”

He smiled at me then kissed me softly. Returning the kiss, I smiled back. “What’s next on the agenda to find the asshole scumbags? What’s the plan?”

With a smile, he said “They tend to be places where they can do the most trade…. the club you now own, the club I found you in…anywhere there are youths impressionable enough to sell to.”

“But that’s the thing, Angel, I wasn’t there buying…you saw it…wrong. It wasn’t a fix I was quelching…it was an order I was carrying out.”

“I know… Why do you think I left you alive?”

“So we aren’t searching for innocents looking to buy…”

Aleister took my chin in his hand to make me look at him, “Ella, before we continue, let me make one thing clear….” gazing back at him I waited for him to continue.

“I left you alive all those years ago because I knew you were innocent, that you had nothing to do with what they were doing. I don’t kill innocents. And you… you were by far the most innocent person I have seen in years.”

“I get that, I just mean that we need to look in the places they find us at, not after they have us. Do you get that? I have to prevent this from happening to someone else…as many others as I can. I have to find their…” a deep, repulsed shudder passed through me as a primal growl bubbled up. “warehouse and free those girls.”

“And that we can do… just hear me out, will you? I understand your fury, I have my own. But just listen…” he took my hand and kissed the palm.

“I am..I just…I can’t just go wipe the assholes at the club out. I have to find their current warehouse first.” The word drips from my mouth with an unbridled growl with every word.

“Listen. We find one of those idiots again, just like the other night. He told me where they are going to be next, as they move in groups. We go, we separate them like last time, but this time, we keep one so I can have a little word with him. Through him, we find others, and one of them will tell us where to strike to end this. Trust me, when you can cause people more pain than they think possible, they get very talkative very quickly.”

“This time, this ring…you think these are the only ones?”

“No. But as I said, we will find out eventually where to go to put a stop to this for good.”

The thoughts of the pain I wanted to inflict on them flooded my veins like fire, and I knew my eyes were glowing. When I spoke, I couldn’t fight the savage snarl that came out. “Trust me, the mouth may be the only thing that works when I’m done…” I seethed.

Fighting to regain my control, I glared at Aleister. “You still don’t get it, Aleister. This never ends…”

“Yes it does, and we will make sure it does.”

I sighed and crossed my arms, “There are always more. All over the world. They didn’t just pop up in the last century.”

“You are forgetting one thing…. One very important thing.”

I rolled my eyes, “Is this the part where you remind me how old you are?”

“No. This is the part where I remind you that they cannot hide from us. We will find them, Fen. We will kill them, and we will end this entire nightmare And then, we will begin our lives the way it should be. Together, and finally free.”

arms still crossed I lean back against your chest with a huff I still don’t see how this will ever end, Angel, but I’m too tired to continue this conversation right now, my love.

“Then sleep, my beautiful Goddess….” he coaxed, holding me tight in his reassuring, safely strong grip. “Trust in me…. I will find them… and they will all die at your hands… but for now… sleep and dream of me….”

I smiled wryly, “Pretty sure after this conversation and this night of empowerment…I will be dreaming of a blood bath.”

“Then let it be so…. because we can both be happy knowing that you will never have those dreams again.”

My eyes began to droop and I laid my head on his shoulder with a small yawn. “Tomorrow…we take them out.”

Laying down on the couch on the balcony he pulls me tight against him. “Sleep….”

Mmmm, I hummed into him as I snuggled began to drift off. Aleister stroked my hair, making soft hushing noises, as I drifted.

The Monster Within

“Fen, my dear?” He growled. I looked up, puzzled at the anger in his voice. “How would you like an early lunch?”

I smirked, “What did you have in mind?”

“That was an associate of mine, Duncan. He runs the blood bank where I get most of my supply. There has been an issue. Want to come and practice what you learned today?”

“Quirking my brow as my interest peaked, “Sounds intriguing. Let’s go.”

We teleported to London and slipped down an alleyway. Angel knocked on a large metal door that seemed to just swing open. Angel’s face darkened as he stepped in, glancing around before waving me to follow him in. Rushing over to a sniffling and bloodied man, Angel carefully knelt in front of him. I didn’t pay much attention to the conversation because I was quickly distracted by the sounds coming from the other room.

I half heard Angel say, “All yours,” as I glanced back at him with a mischievous grin. Here we go. Let’s see what I can do.

I paused and glanced back at Angel, who had followed me down the hallway as backup. “He said one of them was armed.”

“Yes. The same still applies. Catch his hand at the wrist, then throw him as you did me, but make sure you keep him down once he is on the floor.”

“Oh, okay.” I nodded confidently, and pushed the door open. The door just…fell. It fell completely off of its hinges. Both of us stared at it, and I let out a small, squeaky, “oops.”

Then, as one, we looked up to see three middle aged men glaring at us. They were in the process of ransacking the shelves, although they had left the majority of the blood in the fridges.

“Who the fuck are you?” The one in the middle snapped, the police baton in his left hand.

“I’m the one telling you to drop everything and get out.”

“Or what, lady?”

“Or I’m going to kill all three of you.” I snapped back. Angel stepped back as I focused on the men, giving me space to deal with them.

“I don’t think so. See, I think we’re going to have our fun with you, then we’re going to finish what we came for. And if you don’t struggle and be a good girl, we might let you live.”

My vision became crystal clear, my ears buzzed and my blood boiled. Electricity pulsed through me as the bloodlust took over. That was the wrong thing to say mister. “I’m giving you one last chance. Leave, now, and you get to live.” The words dripped from my lips like saliva.

“Boys, grab the bitch.” The one with the baton said.

The room grew silent as I took a deep breath, let out a primal scream. The next thing I heard was a single sentence from Angel that seemed to light with pride. “I thought I asked you not to make a mess, my love.”

I turned and stared at him, coming out of the haze, I looked around the room at the damage I had caused. Blood and glass peppered the room. I stood there, looking at myself, covered in crimson and glanced back at Angel, utterly mortified as I fell to her knees. “What have I done….”

Instantly, Angel was by my side, cradling me in his arms. Turing into him, I wept into his chest, sobbing uncontrollably.

“Fen, my love, it’s okay. They would have killed you, if you hadn’t killed them.”

“I didn’t mean to be so angry. But he said…and I…I didn’t mean to do this.”

Angel sighed softly, calling Duncan into the room. He stopped in the doorway, with a look of horror in his eyes, which only made me feel worse.

“What happened in here?” He asked, his voice a soft whisper.

“We solved your intruder problem. Me and Fen are leaving. I’ll send someone along to help tidy everything up. Goodbye, Duncan.”

Before I could finish processing all that happened, we were back in Brechin. The dogs were in my face, covering us in licks of concern as they felt my disconcerted mood. Their presence calmed me instantly as they sent thoughts or warmth, love and acceptance. I turned and shooed them away then yawned. The high was wearing off and I was physically exhausted from the exertion.

“Tired?”

“It has been a long day. With the training this morning, and my outburst in London…I feel wiped out.”

Angel looked off to the evening sky then back at me with a nod. “Let’s get you to bed, shall we?” He smiled, lifted heme into his arms, and carried me into the house. Setting me down on the bed, I drifted off to sleep as I could no longer keep my eyes open.
The next thing I remember, I was shuffling into the bedroom in Brechin. My hair was a mess, blood smeared on my face, and my top was tattered and torn.

Angel pulled me into his arms as I blinked, half aware of what was even going on or where I was. He licked the blood off my face and asked calmly, “Problem, my love?”

“I..I..” I collapsed into his embrace, unable to stand any longer.

He stroked my hair as holds me close. “What did you do?” He asked, his voice smooth and comforting, not even a drop of disappointment.

“I..I’m not sure. It’s hazy.”

Angel placed a finger to each of my temples, searching my memories.

Flashes of me running race through my mind, my vision hued over red. Screams, warm blood, and a sense of euphoria rushes through me. Angel let’s go of my temples and cradles me in his arms again.

“A-Angel cries did I?” My voice breaks before I can finish, the horror of what I think I did overwhelms me and I start crying again.

He holds me tight and rubs my arm comforting me. “Shh, no…you didn’t. I keep an eye, my love. You and I share a link,” he lied. “That blood is a feed from a donor.” his face awash with a guilty look.

“Then…why the screaming? Why I am a mess? No…Angel this is different.”

“You are tired.” He stumbled, wiping his face of all expression. No, this was different. I could feel it both in me and the way Angel was behaving.

“I don’t feel tired. I feel like I could climb Mount Kilimanjaro.”

“Because the blood is mine.” He continued the attempt at the charade. He shared images of himself on a rampage through London.

Seeing through his bullshit and having enough, I sat up and looked at him, straight faced. “Your’s isn’t warm, Angel. Don’t lie to me.”

“I am not lying, let me explain.”

“Can you tell me while I shower? I feel…” I involuntarily shuddered.

Angel carried me in, slowly strips us both and sets both of us under the hot water. He begins to lathering me up as I closed my eyes, leaning my head on the shower wall.

Angel begins in a low voice, “I have a few humans under my employ. They…clean up messes. They have been screwing up as of late. Last night was the last straw. Went back to London and discovered they had been seen by a normal human. I lost my temper…” He sent me an image of humans at his feet and a chase through Whitechapel involving a lot of destruction. “And you, Fen, tried to stop me.”

I turned my head slightly and looked up at him without moving my head from the wall. He continued, “…the blood lust took over and you killed the last of them. I was too distracted to stop it.”

“I…so I did…” I turned back to face the wall again and sobbed as the water streamed down over me.

Angel turned me to face him and wiped my face, “Hush…you made a mistake. It was easily rectified. No one knows but you and I, and no one else will.”

“Easily rectified!” My voice broke as I yelled, “I KILLED people! I can’t just, ‘poof,’ bring them back!!!” I made a opening gesture with my hands as I said ‘poof’.

Angel made me look at him, resting forehead to forehead, staring me in the eyes. “ONE! One person, Fen. They were going to die when I caught them anyways. You are a vampire. We drink blood. And he was free game anyway.”

Unable to listen to his bullshit anymore, I teleported out of the tub and grabbed a towel from the hook on the other side of the room. “He was HUMAN Angel!”

Angel turned off the shower and stepped out. “No, he wasn’t.” He said after of factly.

I wrapped the towel around myself, then began drying my hair with another.

Angel wrapped a towel around himself as he took a step forward. “They were little more than drones.”

“Gods below, Angel! You told me when I came to you you don’t do slavery…but now you are calling people…drones. Explain yourself and what happened!?”

“Those humans, they know me. They work for me. But they tended to talk after drinks, so I altered their minds a little. They worked for me, but they were a little more than human as I needed them a little stronger and faster. The fact remains, Fen, that they were dead the moment they were seen by that young girl. They weren’t slaves. They had a choice.”

“A young girl?” I asked as I flipped my head, wrapping the towel around my hair. Standing, I removed the towel from my body and began dressing.

Angel began dressing slowly as he continued. “They were helping at the blood bank clean up. They were moving a body, and a little girl saw them do so

I blanched at the thought of a little girl involved. Flashbacks of my childhood comes in waves and I shudder. “I.. I know why I was involved now. Was this after we left? I don’t remember any children around.”

“The little girl is fine, Fen. And yes, this was after we were home. I wiped her memory and took her to the police. As for the workers, it was a mistake. Just a mistake.”

I shook my head, taking in a shuddering breath and replied, “You can say that again.”

Angel took me in his arms, “Listen….” I pulled away from him slightly but not with much effort as he continued. “Fen, he was already dead. Had I caught him, he would have suffered more than the draining you gave him. You did the right thing. It was a lapse, just a lapse. And I am not angry. In fact, I am proud” He turned and pulled on a shirt.

I blanched again, “I am not…I did exactly what I feared the most. And don’t play off the one clear memory I have that is haunting me.” Clear as if I was standing there at this very moment, I see myself ripping back, taking a chunk of the man’s flesh in my mouth. “I did more than drain him, Angel.”

Angel finished buttoning his shirt and started with his tie. “You don’t think I did that when I first turned?” He asked plainly.

“Then why are you proud? I fucking bathed in him!” The memories began to come in clearer as I realized the red haze in my vision was his blood.

Angel looked me in the eye. “I am proud because you were there. You felt my anger and whether it was to calm me or save them, you came. You are better than you think. And you only acted like a newborn vampire does in the midst of carnage and bloodshed. I am proud because you came to me and shared it. Others would have hid it from me, and we would not be having this conversation”

I crossed my arms and sat on the edge of the couch. “I don’t feel proud. I feel guilty, ashamed.”
He sat beside me, idly finishing the tie.

“Can I tell you the truth?”

“You damn well better…always.”

“When I was first turned, I had my own lapse. I killed an entire town because the blood lust grew so strong. I only stopped because my maker threw me off of the cliffs and into the sea and threatened to have my head next time. You only killed one.” He paused, taking my chin in his hand, gazing at me, pride evident on his face. “I am proud of your restraint. And dealing with those…humans, is part of your life now.

“I…” I began then closed my mouth, unable to find the words.

“I told you, I am…I was an animal.”

I shook my head, standing from the bed to join him. Sliding my arm around his waist, I gazed up at him. “You are not the one I am speechless by. I knew then you were an animal. All Vampires are. Including me. We unleashed the primal animal within when we stopped our hearts. I don’t fear you Angel. I just don’t like not being in control.”

“You will learn more control in time. For what you have been through in the last few days, I am extremely impressed and damn proud, my love.”

A Gift

I looked down as the peaceful slumber of a perfectly formed head of red hair. The dawning sunlight shone on her like a golden pot from those fairy tales at the end of a rainbow as my heart felt warm and full. Wait, that’s…that’s me. I suddenly realized what I was seeing was a reflection of Angel’s thoughts. He was looking at me. I smiled and stirred, rolling over to glance up at him. 

“Morning, my love. Been up long?” I stretched and let out a little noise from my throat.

Angel shivered and pulled me closer, snuggling up against me. “Long enough that I have watched the sun come past the horizon.”

A frown crossed my face. “You should have woken me. We could have watched it together.”

“Next time, I shall. But you needed your sleep, Fen. We have a rough day ahead of us.” Leaning over, he kissed my forehead.

“Oh, right, training.” My forehead creased at the prospect. “I’m ready when you are.” I flung the covers back and set my feed on the floor.

“As much as I enjoy the sight of you in your pyjamas, my love, perhaps you should dress a little more appropriately.” He chuckled as he got out of bed and pulled on a loose shirt along with loose fitting pants.

I laughed, shaking my head, “True, but if I’m going to be thrown around today, I want to at least be comfortable.” I walked over to my bureau and slipped into a tshirt and jeans. “Better?”

“You look beautiful in everything you wear, my dear. But yes, apart from the jeans. They will constrict you a little.” He pulled me into an embrace and kissed me softly.

Smiling into the kiss I muttered, “Then what do you suggest, my love?”

A small grin played at the corners of his lips as a glint of mischief twinkled in his eyes, as he reached past me and pulled out a pair of pants similar to his. “These will do. They are loose enough.”

Nodding, I took the pants and changed quickly into them. “Okay, ready. Where do we begin?”

Giving me a quick squeeze, he led the way into the gardens, hand in hand, until we were in the middle of one of the fields. “This is far enough. I think the first thing to do… punch me.”

“Punch you? Angel, I don’t want to hurt you.” I shook my head, crossing my arms in defiance.

“Fen, it is unlikely you will hurt me. And I am asking you to hit me. I need to know whether you need to learn to throw a punch properly, so do as I ask and hit me as hard as you can.”

I sighed, dropped my arms and shook them out, glaring at him. Drawing my arm back, I threw a wide right hook, thumb tucked and made contact with his chest, sending him a few steps back.

“That wasn’t bad. Don’t draw your arm back that far, but it was a solid blow. We will be fine as far as that goes. Now, if you are okay, I think learning to throw someone will be a good idea.”

My eyes sparkled, “Now that sounds like fun.” I chuckled.

He laughed, giving me a mischievous glance. “Do you need to be shown, or do you have an idea on how to do this?”

“It’s about getting under them and using their own momentum, right? I’ve seen it in movies.”

“Basically, yes. Anyone can be taken off of their feet, provided you get enough leverage to bring them over. You are faster and stronger, so you will encounter few people who can actively counter you if you move quick enough. But do you know how to actually do so?”

I shook my head and looked at him, “Not really. Just the concept from the tellie.”

“Very well.” he nodded.

Stepping closer, he took a hold of my wrist, and walked me through the process of throwing an adversary. It seemed to be a simple thing, getting in close and using their own weight to bring them up and over my back.

He didn’t actually throw me, but stepped back. “Understand?”

I inclined my head thoughtfully, taking in the instructions. “I assume you want me to try now?”

“Yes. Or do I need to walk you through it again first?” He asked kindly.

“Maybe one more time?”

He nodded politely and once again walked me through it, this time bringing me off of my feet a little. A small squeal of shock escaped me and he recoiled.

“Is that okay?”

I nodded, “Yeah, I mean, you could have actually thrown me. You know I’m not fragile, right?”

An uneasy look crossed his face, but nodded in agreement. “Why would I throw you? This is about teaching you to throw people, not about getting thrown.”

“Yeah, okay. I just didn’t want you to think you had to treat me like fine china or something. I’ve been thrown around my entire life. I can take it.” I shrugged nonchalantly.

Without saying a word, he stepped forward, and quickly threw me. I landed with a thump on my back as the air was knocked out of me. Yoru and Eechee leapt between us, growling as they knocked him to the forest floor to defend me.

“What the-? What is the matter with you two?” He sputtered, caught off guard by the dog’s reaction. They stayed put, staring him down with their ears pinned back. “Fen, are you okay?”

Brushing myself off, I stood, laughing at the dogs as I watched them. “Guess we know who they love and want to protect.” I walked over to him and extended my hand, shooing the pups back as I approached.

The dogs padded off, but stayed a few feet away, still gazing at Angel warily. “I think we do, and I am glad of it. That makes three of us.”

Smiling back at him, my hand still gripping his wrist from where I helped him to his feet. I smirked, slipped a foot between his and yanked him over my shoulder in one move. The dogs jumped again and growled at Angel. 

Chuckling,he scratched their chins. “She is not in danger, you daft furballs. Fen, will you tell them you are okay?”

Kneeling in front of them I grinned and ruffled their fur. “I’m fine you silly things. I can handle myself. Now go play, you goofs.”

As they wandered off, chasing each other into the forest, Angel pulled himself to his feet and smiled. “That was a good throw. I wasn’t actually expecting it.” He brushed himself off, and stretched. I beamed that I pulled one over on him which made a look of pure pride cross his face as he pulled me into a deep kiss. “Well done.”

“I know you weren’t expecting it. That’s why it worked.” I smirked. “Now when they are expecting it in a fight, I may not be as lucky.”

“That is the thing, no one ever expects to be thrown in a fight. Humans tend to focus on being hit with strikes, or striking their opponent. So a throw can get them off balance more than you think. Aim to catch a punch they throw, you will be fast enough, and use that momentum to catch them off guard.”

“Gotcha, that makes sense.” My head spin suddenly and I felt weak as I stumbled and nearly fell over, feeling faint. “Whoa…”

Flashing forward, Angel caught me before I hit the ground. Holding hme steady, he gazed at me. “You didn’t eat before we came out, did you?”

I shook my head, looking up at him, “Not for a while, that I recall.”

Nodding, he slowly helped me up, he held me steady and pulled his shirt aside to expose his neck. “Eat. Now.” He said calmly and quietly.

Running my fingers gently into his hair, I exposed my fangs and bit gently into his neck, feeding in deep, slow pulls. A small moan escaped my lips as I fed, my skin returning to its normal color.

Leaning back,he studied my face. “Better?”

I licked my lips and nodded. “Much.”

“Good.”

“How do you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Walk so fast. The way you got here and caught me.”

“Ah, that… okay. Truth be told, each of us is turned with a unique gift, one of three. We can learn the other two, but it takes years. I know two, not three, but it took me a few decades to learn the second.”

“A gift?” I frowned.

“An ability that we possess that few others can. I am going to show you right now which is yours.”

“Is mine seeing through your bull shit?” I quipped, raising my eyebrows with a chuckle.

“No.” He returned the laughter, “that is just love.” He added as he kissed my forehead. “I already used one just now.”

“Oh, yeah. The fast moving thing?”

“Yes. That is the one I taught myself. I have a different inherent gift, but hopefully I won’t have to use it around you.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. I have the ability to compel people. But in any case, are you ready to find out which one you have? I am curious, I admit.”

I nodded and muttered, “Mhmm.”

Taking a few steps back, he took a deep breath. “Right. Come and stand here, facing the house.”

I followed, standing where he instructed.

“Right. Head for the house, but focus all of your energy on that first step, eyes on where you want to go. Don’t think about trying to move that fast, just let instinct propel you forward.”

“Sort of like the teleporting? Think about where I want to be?”

“Yes. But keep your eyes on your target, as this is more a short distance thing. Like this…” He  flashed forwards and stared at me from the back patio of the house.

I cocked my head to the side, looking at him from the garden as he winked. I looked down at my feet reluctantly, then back up at him. .

I took a step to move quickly but tripped after only a few steps, falling forward. Flashing back to me, Angel caught me in his arms before I hit the ground.

Infuriated, there was one more thing I couldn’t do, I grumbled out a, “Thanks.”

“Anytime.” He nodded, helping me stand as he seemed to linger in our embrace. “Your gift is not that one then.”

His warm smile and concern melted away my frustration as I smiled back at him sheepishly, “Guess not.”

“Not to worry.” He kissed my forehead as he stood me back up and released me, “Now we will try the fun one.”

A look of mischievousness flashes across my face, “That could have been fun,” I laughed, “But if you say so, let’s do it.”

“This one is a very rare but a very fun one. It is the one I don’t have. The ability to connect with lower forms.”

“Lower forms?”

“Animals. Go and wait on the patio for me, please.” He left me in the field to search in the forest. I wandered back to the  house and sat at a patio table.

He returned and placed his hand on the table, but didn’t let go of what was in it. “Ready?”

“To do what?”

Opening his hand a little, revealing the face of the mouse that was gently trapped in my grip. “Can you see the eyes?” I nodded.

“Focus on them. Keep telling the mouse that you are a friend. That you mean no harm to it at all. Try and build a connection.”

“He’s a mouse…how can he even understand me?”

“If it has a brain, you can connect with it. Like the telepathy between us.”

“So thoughts, yes? That’s what I was going to say.” I looked back at the mouse, leaning forward, and sent it images of peace and warmth.

I caught Angel as he looked at me with a slight grin, “Are you ready?” My eyes were still on the mouse as I nodded.

With the slightest hesitation, he opened his hand and released the mouse, leaving it standing calmly and bravely in the middle of the table. “Call it to you, if you can.”

I rested my hand down at the edge of the table, palm up and stared at it. The mouse wiggled his nose and whiskers a little then ran into my hand. Angel smiled widely, watching proudly as the tiny rodent made itself at home.

I sat up with the mouse on her hand, and pet it as it settled down in my palm, closing his eyes

“You have the rare one, Fen. This is amazing. Just wait until we try with bigger animals.”

I glanced at him sheepishly, “I think I already have. When you first introduced me to Yoru and Eechee, I think they told me their names, Angel.”

“You think they told you? Did you hear anything when you were with them? Like an echo in your mind, or what felt like someone whispering to you?”

“Sort of, but it was much clearer. Like when you and I speak telepathically.”

“That was the gift, yes. You can do it with any animal, provided you can keep eye contact with it for long enough.” He grinned and pulled me into a tight hug.

Tilting my head, I looked up at him, returning the smile. “But Angel, I don’t have to be looking at the pups to hear them…”

“That is because they trust you, they know you mean no harm. They aren’t suspicious of you so they don’t hide their thoughts. Animals are smarter than humans think.” He shrugged, watching the two dogs come thundering up the fields to us.

I knelt down and snuggled each of them after they approached. I heard Angel’s phone buzz and he retrieved it from his pocket. He snarled a little, as he put it away.

 “Fen, my dear?” He asked. I looked up, puzzled at the anger in his voice. “How would you like an early lunch?”

A Pleasant Surprise

“The hunt begins. You will have your revenge. I promise you that.” He took me in his embrace and kissed me deeply, lighting my fire within, once again.

I broke the kiss and gazed into his eyes. “Are you afraid?”

”Of what?” Confusion crossed his face as he frowned at me.

“My beast?” I answered quietly, averting my eyes from his.

Angel sat up, keeping me wrapped around him, looking me in the eyes with a smile. “No.”

“We haven’t even seen her yet. What if neither of us can control it and we lose ourselves? What if we hurt innocents? What if…  I want them DEAD but at what cost?”

His voice calm and steady as his eyes return to normal, holding my face gently. “Ella, you forget one thing.”

“I am?” The bloodlust was fading as I searched him.

“Yes.” My brow furrowed as I tried to comprehend. “Your beast is not alone.”

“I know that. That’s kind of my point. What if we both lose control?”

“Good,” He said matter-of-factly.

As my face falls, I ask again, “Good? And the innocent?”

“There will be no innocents. Because we do this my way. Or we do not do it.”

“And what way is that?”

He looked back at me, catching my gaze as he looked into my eyes. “We find them. We make damn sure it is them. Then we tear their world down around them. And make them see something this world has forgotten.” He growled the last sentence though gritted teeth

“That we are the predators and they are the prey?”

“Not only that…we make them see that monsters are very real. And that the past is a bad place to leave behind something that can kill you.”

My lips turn up in a smirk at the thought of wreaking havoc on the evil bestowed upon me. “I like that idea very much.”

As he smiled, his eyes lit up with warmth. “I do have one last thing to ask of you.”

“Yes, my love?”

“After all this is done, regardless of the death in our wake…we make our vows right here…in our home…”

Pulling him in for a kiss, a single word left my mouth and made his smile wider. “Promise.” My forehead on his as a contented sigh passed his lips. “I’m sorry, my prince,” I said quietly after a moment of silence.”

“For what??” A puzzled frown quirked his lips.

“Not telling you sooner. I…I thought you recognized me.  And when I realized you didn’t, I didn’t want to mess up the best thing to ever happen to me. I just didn’t want you to look at me differently.”

That heartwarming smile crossed his face again. “Ella, you have me. For better or worse, no matter the animals we keep in our hearts, you will always be my Lady of Shadows.”

“And you will always have me, better or worse. My dark prince, my night.”

After a tender and slow kiss, a deep frown of bemusement flashed across his face and he began to laugh, low and full of humor.

The tender moment was interrupted as confusion crossed my face at his laughter. “What?”

His laughter rich and deep rolled as he spoke. “A jogger in a dress…that was you?”

“What?”

“The night you first came to me…someone came past me as I was picking up the paper. A pretty girl in a slinky dress. She was running…” His laughter increased as the memory returned to him.

Joining in his laughter, the heat of embarrassment filled me. “Oh gods!” I buried my face in his chest mumbling against him. “Yes…”

“Why?”

“Why what?” I mumbled.

“Why were you running in a dress? Wait…were you following me?”

“Obviously!” I snapped, my embarrassment growing by the second. If I could have blushed, I would have.

“I love you,” he chuckled as he leaned in to kiss me again.

I returned the kiss in an effort to change the subject. “I sure as hell wasn’t losing you again! Not after how long it took me to find you.”

“How long were you looking?”

“Since that night,” I admitted, causing shock to widen his eyes and his jaw to drop.

“That must have been at least a decade! You really wanted to find me that badly?”

“Mhm…then when I did, I…I became a blubbering idiot that threw herself at your feet.” I rolled my eyes at my own embarrassing behaviour.

With a soft smile, he placed a finger under my chin and made me look up. “A blubbering idiot that made me realise that my darkness is nothing to fear. Well, for me to fear, anyway.”

“Your darkness was my savior. My life bringer, my hope. I could never fear it.”

“Ella, you haven’t seen the darkest depths of it yet. But you will.”

I ran my hand through his hair as I gazed up at him. “Come what may, I accept all of you. I love all of you, Angel.”

“And I love all of you, my sweet Fenella,” he grinned. “I am the man I am because of you.”

“I think you don’t give yourself enough credit. You saved that little girl, so long ago. Your heart has been broken, but you stayed true to your values throughout”

His smile turned sad. “Life is strange, how one choice you make can change everything in ways you never expect.”

“My love, every choice we make changes everything.”

“And I made the best one I have ever made.”

“Saving me?”

“Yes. If I had ended the life of that little girl, I would still be alone, and still be searching for my own savior.”

I leaned into him. “I’d say you found her,” I chuckled, remembering running into him that night. “But technically, I found you.”

“We found each other, Fen. In this screwed up world, we found one another.”

I nodded as I sighed, my head still resting against him. “So, the hunt begins?”

“Tomorrow morning, yes. Tonight, we have one last night of peace.”

“And I still need to learn to fight.”

“Yes. I will start tomorrow. I do hope you are prepared for some bumps and bruises.”

“Bumps and bruises, I can handle,” I chuckled.

“Yes, although I did something that might make you angry. I was looking out at the gardens earlier, I realized how empty this estate was, and I realized you might want company when I am not here.”

“Empty? It’s so full of life. How would it ever be empty?” I replied, unsure of what he meant.

“I decided to go and invite some new residents.”

I frowned at him. “What!?”

The smile on his face became a grimace of uncertainty, but he raised his fingers to his lips and whistled. There was silence for a moment, then two dogs came traipsing around the corner.

They were the same breed – fluffy, adorable looking things – but one was as white as snow, the other as black as coal. Both of them plodded up to us and sat obediently, their eyes shining as they gazed up at me.

 “Oh Angel! How beautiful!” My embarrassment was gone as I beamed down at the two pups.

Angel grinned, relief evident in his eyes as he crouched down and scratched the black one under the chin. “I didn’t name them. I wanted you to have the honor of that.”

Kneeling, I tapped my leg to call the white one, patting it on the head. A faint echo reverberated in my mind as I thought for a moment. “Hmm, what about Yoru and Eechee? I think it means night and day.”

“Yes. It does. Very suitable, too. I like it. Hello, Yoru. Hello Eechee.”

Standing back up, I took Angel’s arm in mine and smiled up at him. “Should we head in? We have a full day ahead tomorrow, do we not?”

“Yes. Teaching you to fight, finding the next ones in the chain…tomorrow will be quite the troublesome one.”

Walking back towards the house, I stepped over a downed tree. “Good thing we have plenty of land to practice in.”

“True. But at least it will not be as destructive as today. I rather liked these trees.”

Leaning against him with a smile, the dogs followed behind us as we made our way back to the main house. “We can replant. We can watch them grow into their splendor together.”

My Truth

CONTENT/ TIGGER WARNING: This post contains descriptions of violence, abuse and sex-trafficking.

As we wandered slowly through the grounds of our new home, I bubbled over with excitement pointing out the different amenities and areas of the property. Angel smiled and laughed the entire walk, his countenance lit up like Paris at night. I still can’t believe this is real, but I will relish in the moments I have.

With a jovial bound in my step, I called out the animals and waved at the staff as we continued. “And we have gardeners and everything, assuming we keep them with us. Oh Angel! It’s just perfect.” We arrived at a cozy nook of the garden and sat on a bench together. “You’re quiet. Is everything okay?”

He smiled at me, “I am fine, my love….simply thinking is all.”

I gazed up at him inquisitively, “What about?”

“You asked me to teach you about our lives…”

I nodded in reply, answering simply with a “Mhm…”

He slipped his jacket off and popped the button on his shirt sleeve. Neatly rolling up the fabric to expose the scars that littered the flesh beneath. “It is time you learned to spot the ones responsible for these, Fen.”

Gulping at the turn in conversation my face dropped as I watched him.

“Fortunately, they are mostly easy to spot.”

I nodded in silence, waiting for him to continue.

“The first thing you will notice, is that they always travel in pairs – mostly for protection.”

“What..who are they?” I asked softly.

He seemed to be struggling to speak when he replied through gritted teeth, “….Hunters…”

Having only movies and other pop-culture references to go on, I asked him, “Like VanHelsing shit?” He smiled slightly, but kept the conversation serious.

“If that is easier for you to understand this, then yes.”

I shrugged, “ I mean… I could have said Sam and Dean.” I chuckled, attempting to lighten the mood.

“Hmmm…” he smirked. “No…worse.”

“Yeah, he’s too hot to be scary.” I grinned, knowing he was thinking of some scene of Dean in his head and winked at him coyly.

“He did have those rather wonderful black eyes though….” He shot back, causing me to blush.  He cleared his throat before continuing. “Anyway…”

Shifting to face him, realizing this was a serious topic and I needed to pay attention. “Yeah, anyways…sorry. I’m listening.”

“Good. Because they will kill you if they know what you are, Fen. Or worse, you will encounter ones who want to do what they did to me, to you .”

I nodded solemnly, gazing at him intently. 

“I am sorry to be so snappy, Fen, but I don’t want a Hunter taking away the second woman I have ever cared about like they did the first.”

“Then why have you waited so long to teach me?” I asked pointedly.

“Because it is not an easy subject for me. I know you need to learn, but I find it hard to talk of hunters.”

Inclining my head in understanding, I placed my hand on his arm in reassurance, the soft steady grip encouraging him to continue.

“Ella… they scarred me, they took away my first love, and it terrifies the living hell out of me that they might take my second. And that is something that will not happen if I can help it.”

“I.. I know. I stopped joking. I’m ready.”

“Okay. The easiest way to spot them is their eyes. They are always looking for you.”

“Pardon another pop culture reference, it’s what I know to use…but, like the guy from the show Grimm?”

He sat there for a moment trying to place the reference, then nodded, “Yes, if pop culture references help you, use them.”

With my focus and attention fully on him, I explained, “Sometimes..when I don’t have something historical to use, pop culture helps me understand.”

“The simple fact is, Fen, we are easy to spot compared to humans. They will spot you in a crowd due to one reason, something that is an unfortunate byproduct of vampirism.”

“So they use body temp? Like those heat sensor guns from tv?”

“No. Temperature is what they use to double check their suspicions.”

“Heart rate then?”

“No, but that is a good guess.”

My mind raced, unsure of what other device they may have. “Hmm, I’m all out of ideas.”

“Look at yourself, Fen.” He gestured up and down at my body, which left me feeling somehow cheapened. “That is how.”

I looked down at my hands, turning them over in observation, still unsure what he was implying. “I don’t get it…”

“You are perfect…humans aren’t.”

Thinking of all the scars all over my body, I snorted in amusement. “If you say so.”

“Ella, I know you have pain inside…” I rolled my eyes at him, clearly he had no clue what was going through my mind. “But outside you are the physically perfect version of yourself. As am I.”

“Are you saying my scars are also.in my head?”

“You have no scars outside. Trust me, my love, I have seen all of you. I know that you have no scars.”

I sighed, “Then why do I still see them?”

He paused for a moment, a pensive look on his face. “Maybe you are like me, you couldn’t let go of what happened to you. Still can’t.”

I muttered under my breath, images of ripping men’s throats out ran through my head. “I wish the fuckers were dead.” I shook my head and blinked hard, clearing the thoughts from my mind.

He frowned, but didn’t press me. “Once they see your looks, they will test you.”

I drew my attention back on Angel, “Ok, how?”

“That is something you already guessed. First they check your temperature. Then they make sure with a heart rate sensor.”

“But if we can teleport, how can they catch us?”

“They will test you from as far as possible to keep themselves safe. Then they will wait for you to make a mistake…” Angel trailed off as a thought ran though his mind. “Like we could have made in the club today. Shit.”

“I still don’t completely follow. How would they have gotten in? Don’t we have security for that?”

“They dress like anyone else. They wouldn’t get far with military uniforms or guns, would they?”

“But we don’t have a way to test their eyes when they come in, or something?”

“They have no augments. They only have very strict training. Which in itself is a sign – they walk like soldiers, they act like soldiers, and they make mistakes.”

I shuddered, “Don’t we all?”

“Yes, I made one earlier tonight and I need to fix it.”

“You?”

“Yes.”

“What happened? WE DIDN’T!?” My eyes widened in terror at the thought of the girl we left at the club. “Had I taken too much from her and killed her?”

“The girl. I didn’t wipe her memory.”

 “Oh.” I sighed in slight relief.

Angel frowned. “It makes her a liability, Ella.”

“I get that, but she’s not dead…like I thought you meant.”

“I love your heart,” he grinned at me. “Even if it doesn’t beat.”

I chuckled, “If only you knew the dark side of it, you wouldn’t say that.”

“I am the dark side of your heart. As you are the light of mine.”

I shook my head, dropping it a little. “The things I dream of…the things I want to do.”

Angel bore his fangs as a memory clearly flashed through his mind. “What you dream, what you wish to do, are no match for the things I have done. And never will be. I killed an entire room of people because they tried to sell drugs to a child. A child, Ella.”

“I..” Realizing he didn’t recognize me like I had previously thought, this may be the moment I needed to tell him who I was. “I could have been her… may have been.” I gazed back up at him, searching his face for it to connect.

“Let me be clear, Fen. I will tolerate some things, but I will rain hell upon those who hurt children. And make no mistake, I have left a river of blood in my wake made of those that have.”

“Then we share the same values.” I quickly turned away as more flashes of memories danced through my mind.

He sat in patient silence, giving me a moment with my thoughts. Finding my voice again, I murmured, “Can we just get back to the hunters, please?”

Angel frowned. “What did I say? What’s wrong, my love?” He questioned, taking my hand.

“It’s ok… Let’s stay focused. Hunters dress like normal people, we can see it in their eyes like a grimm, and…they walk like a soldier. What else?”

“They are inquisitive. Like you. They frequent clubs like the one today and they listen to the conversations. That is why the girl is a liability.”

“Oh.” My voice still small as the reality sunk in.

“Yes…”

“But those people come looking for us. They would so easily betray… Nevermind, people are always after their own preservation. I answered my own question. Continue”.

“You lost me…”

“I was going to ask if people like her, that come looking for us, why would they so easily betray us. But, people are always after their own self preservation, so of course they would talk.”

“Not survival, money. And yes, humans betray easily.”

“Same thing. I know all too well what money, drugs and power can do to humans.”

“Once people know what you are they will come to try and gain your favour, gain the gift I have given you.”

“The gift?” My face contorted in confusion.

Angel gave me a poignant look, waiting for me to comprehend his meaning. In a moment of clarity, my eyes widened, “People want to be turned?”

“Yes.”

“Oh… I didn’t realize it was something actually sought after.”

“Humans seek power, revenge, greed… That is why I changed you.”

“What? What do you mean?”

“You didn’t seek any of those things.”

“Oh.”

“That is why I chose you.”

“I…sometimes I want revenge…” I trailed off again, lost in thought.

Angel interrupted my thoughts with concern in his voice. “But it is not your purpose. You didn’t want the gift when you met me. And why would you want revenge?”

“No, I wanted…I wanted a lot of things, but never imagined, this. So they won’t do the things they did to me, to anyone else. To make them pay”

“What do you mean, this?”

“This? Us, for starters. I came seeking repayment for a debt.”

Angel looked totally confused as I gazed at him, both of us deep in thought.. “You owe me nothing, Fen.”

“I do! Oh Angel, my dark prince! I do!” I held his face in my hands as a single tear ran down my cheek.

Angel frowned, pulling me into a hug, letting me weep.

“Didn’t you recognize me that day? I could have sworn I saw it dawn on you who I was.” I pulled back from him, searching his face.

Angel looked into my eyes, searching for familiarity. “Ella, who are you?”

“I..” I swallowed hard. “I am that girl…the one you saved that night. I watched you tear that room apart, for me.” I sat in silence, staring at him as I waited patiently for him to catch up.

His jaw dropped in shock as the words hit him with the reality of how our paths had crossed so many years ago.

“I…I have been looking for you ever since.” I sat, giving him time to process. The memory of that night ever present in my mind. Standing there, in the corner of the club as this flash of a man came in and slaughtered the room full of drug dealers and pimps, leaving me covered in their blood.

As I spoke his eyes lost focus. Clearly sorting through memories to connect my revelation to his own thoughts. “That was you?”

“You saved my life! You gave me life!”

“You? You were that girl? The one innocent I left behind?”

I nodded at him as tears streaked down my face. “I am.”

“Why were you there?” He sat in silence, simply listening as I told him my truth.

I recoiled and looked away. My voice was small as I continued, “I…they….owned me…” I paused, searching for the strength to continue. “You…they’re still more of them out there. I…” The tears finally broke through as my entire body began to shudder. He pulled me back into a hug, letting me fall apart against him. Rage boiled within me as the retaliation I sought burned anew within. I clenched my teeth as I spoke, the anger evident in my tone. “Angel…I want them all dead!”

He leaned back, eyes wide at the shock of my fury. “Ella…”

“I told you I owe you!!! And I told you I wanted retribution!” I sat up, my eyes red with vengeance and bloodlust.

He didn’t move, simply asked me in a calm and steady voice. “Revenge on what?”

“Them!!” I growled.

“Ella, the ones who caused your pain are dead! I made damn sure of that! With my own two hands!” His eyes turned black as he spoke. “They are gone!”

“Not all of them! Not the ones that threw me away. Not the ones that used me and sold me. And most definitely, not the ones that kept me in a gods damn box! You got one room! I have a fucking lifetime of them!”

Angel snapped and let out a primal roar, disappearing in a flash. In the distance, I heard trees smashing as he shredded several trees into splinters in his rage. I knew I needed to at least attempt to calm him down so I concentrated on his location as he had explained to me and teleported to the middle of the forest where I was met with a circle of destruction. 

“Angel!” I stopped dead in front of him, blocking a swing. “This is my fight! This is why I didn’t want to tell you!”

His eyes remained black, with a ragged breath, clearly seething in fury, he growled. “They kept you in a box!!!”

I placed my hands on his chest and nodded once. “That’s why I can’t do a coffin.”

“They kept you in a box! I’m going to find them. And I am going to rip them limb from

limb.”

“Only if I get to strike first! I need to see the life drain from their eyes as they realize who I am!” I growled back. 

“Trust me, Ella.” He took my face in his hands, kissing my forehead then my lips, meeting my gaze. “When we are done, they will never think of touching any child ever again. Because they will be nothing but footnotes in the history of bad mistakes.”

I cocked my head to the side, staring back at him as my eyes turned red, “So the hunt begins?”

“The hunt begins, my love. You will have your revenge. I promise you that.”

A Place to Call Home

As I began to wake, I felt the coolness of Angel’s body against me, his presence was so reassuring and warm, as contrary as that sounds. 

I moaned and turned into him, blinking sleepily up at him. “So, I have been thinking…of our home…”

“Our home… yes. As have I. This apartment is nice, but it is too small. It was okay when I was here alone, but if we are living together we will need somewhere a little bigger.”

“Bigger? Oh Angel, that’s not what I meant at all. I was just thinking of something a little quieter. Maybe the countryside. Everything is so loud here. It’s hard to focus and learn.” I nuzzled under his chin, drawing runes with my finger on his chest, as I often did.

“Fenella, not to put too fine a point on it, but I can afford to live anywhere. If you wish to live in the country, we can. We can have our own home, wherever we want. Wherever you want.”

“I gathered that…” I giggled and pulled myself from his embrace, rushing to the wardrobe and dressing quickly. Beaming a huge smile back at him I chirped, causing him to throw back the covers and quickly comply. “Come on…I want to show you something.” I grabbed his hand, and teleported us to a beautiful castle in Brechin, Scotland. “Soooo, this?“ I beamed.

He took a slow look around the grounds of the castle, his eyes kept turning back to me as I stood there smiling broadly at him with a twinkle in my eye. I was completely overwhelmed at the thought of my new reality. I kept expecting to wake up from this dream and find myself in an alleyway, passed out from hunger again. He pulled me into his arms, snapping me out of my thoughts as he gazed into my eyes.

“Ella,” He chuckled softly before kissing my lips softly, “if this is your dream, I will make it real. I would do anything for you.”

I broke his embrace and began spinning around in the garden, arms open wide as my world spun as out of control as I felt. “Oh Angel! It has 70 acres.. walled gardens. There are 5 estate cottages, 16 bedrooms…” 

“I may be wrong here, but I am thinking this place has been on your mind before… is this what you want? To live here?” His face alight with wonder as he watched me.

I stopped spinning and ran back to him. “Before you, it was my wildest dreams completely unimaginable. Out of reach, unrealistic. But with you…I feel anything is possible.” I kissed his scarred cheek, my eyes twinkling with glee. “Yes Angel. I want this. With you.”

Gazing down at me, my happiness made him smile just as broadly. He leaned down and whispered in my ear, “It is almost as beautiful as you, Ella. Almost…”

He took another look around, and saw a sign hammered into the earth a few hundred metres away. He pulled out his phone with a devilish grin and  vanished, leaving me in the gardens of the castle.

What seemed like a moment later, he rejoined me, holding a piece of paper and a pen, holding them out to me. I frowned back at him in confusion. “Sign, and the owner says it is ours. Today.” He grinned.

I squealed, and jumped into his arms, wrapping my arms and legs around him. He hugged me back and whispered, “I told you. I will give you the world if it makes you smile.”

I lowered myself back to the ground, looking up at him. “My piece of paradise!”

“Our piece of paradise, Fen.”

“You silly! You are my piece of paradise.” I giggled again and nudged him playfully.

Shaking his head in bemusement, he once again held out the deed and pen. “This needs your signature too, my love.”

“Oh gods, Angel!” She took the pen and deed and signed the document with another squeal.

Chuckling a little, He vanished once more, returning a few moments later, gesturing out at the surrounding area. “This is all ours, Fen…”

Unable to stand it any longer, Placing my hands on his chest, I asked exuberantly, “Walk with me? I want to show you our home.”

“Of course. Lead the way, my love.” He nodded with a cheshire grin, he offered his arm to me.

We walked and talked around the gardens and around the estate, exploring our new home together. I didn’t care anymore if this was a dream. I didn’t care if I ever woke up. Hell, maybe I was dead and this was heaven. I wanted, for one moment, to forget the past and the pain for as long as I could. So here…is where I was staying and focusing on. The here and now. 

Learning Curve

After leaving the club I went out to sit on the balcony, pulling my legs up to my chest. I stared into nothing, lost in thought and frustration when Angel appeared. His face contorted with worry as he approached from behind me. “Fen, my love, why are you angry? What did I do?” He stood behind me and placed a hand on the bench, not breaching my space.

“Why couldn’t I heal her, Angel? I don’t understand. I did the same thing you did,” he exhaled, my brow furrowed as I looked out at the river below.

“I know you did, Fen. But I should have explained. Your blood is mine now. But it is weaker than mine and will be for several years. You will eventually be able to heal…think of it as dilution. It is a weaker version of the base form.”

“You could have told me,” I practically spat, anger seething in my voice. “Instead, I was embarrassed and…” I trailed off, still not looking at him 

“And what, Fenella? I cannot help you if you do not talk to me.”

“You take me to the club, give me these new experiences but not teach me or explain anything to me. Do you expect me to just pick these things up or are you ever going to show me?” I gave him a side glance, more exasperated than mad at this point.

“Of course I’m going to teach you, Fen. How was I to know you were going to try and heal her yourself? You could have asked if it would have worked before you tried. I wasn’t to know you would try to.” He ran his hand through his hair, and turned his gaze out to the river.

“I don’t know, but I had no bearing on the fact that it wouldn’t work. I am completely clueless here and feel like you aren’t telling me anything, Angel. Like I am fumbling around in the dark,” I sighed.

“May I point something out, please?” he asked, calm and polite.

“Of course.” I stretched my legs out in front of me and leaned back against the bench.

“You are the first person I have turned in my life, Fen. You are the first person that made me feel enough to want to turn them. Before you, I was quite content being alone. But now I want to spend the rest of my life with you, so you have to understand – I have never needed to teach someone before. I am learning as I go, just like you. So please, be patient with me.”

I glanced over at him gobsmacked. “I-I am? Why me? I’m no one special. A nothing.” I blinked at him, completely perplexed, as I awaited his reply.

“Why? Why did I turn you…is the answer to that not clear to you yet?”

I shook my head. “No, I have never been treated with such compassion before. I came to you as an offering of gratitude and got a whole new life, literally. My head spins with all the constant changes and emotions I have never felt before. I don’t know how to act. And most of the time, I am overwhelmed with them and the sounds and cravings all at the same time. Help me understand, Angel.” I turned back towards the balcony railing, losing focus in thought and sighed. 

“I turned you because…as odd and as laughable as it would seem to you, I felt something for you when you walked through my door, Fen. I have known you only for a few days, and yet…all I know is I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” He paused. “Before you knocked on my door, I was going to sleep the next few centuries away and hope it was better when I woke up. But you…you gave me the hope I needed. You, Fen, you’re the perfect person that vampirism is meant for.”

“Me, perfect? How?” I tilted my head, and gazed at him. “Because I sought repayment or revenge?” I flinched as I let the last word slip out. I quickly turned away.

He continued, seeming to not notice my slip. “You came in here, looking for me. But you didn’t seek power, you didn’t seek a long life, you just wanted freedom. And that was so new to me, it still is. And I wanted to give you that freedom, Fen.” 

“Freedom was something you gave me a long time ago. I came to repay you for that. You saw something else in me and gave me a new life. One I am trying to understand and learn about. Just be honest with me. Let’s learn together. Okay?”

“You have my word, Fen. From here on out, we will find our way through this together, no secrets, learning as we go. Feeding, hunting, fighting…I will teach you it all, but you have to start asking if you want an answer. Just promise me that.”

I nodded in agreement, no longer wanting to fight, and leaned into him. I laid my head on his chest, and with a single finger, began drawing the runes I learned a while back as a means of self-education. He smiled down at me and wrapped me in his arms. 

It was nearing dawn and had been a rather long and emotional night. The nip in the autumn air made me shudder as he kissed my forehead and asked, “Shall we go to bed, where it is a little warmer?” 

“I’d like that, Angel. I feel safe in your arms. Something I have never felt before.” 

He frowned a little at my statement but I tried to ignore it. He lifted me easily, as if I weighed nothing at all, and carried me to the bedroom, kicking the balcony door shut behind us. 

He set me down gingerly and paused, giving me the space to undress myself. I guess he was allowing me to set the boundaries tonight and I loved him all the more for it. He pulled off his clothes and slid under the covers, lifting them for me to join him, no pressure implied.

I climbed in and burrowed myself against him, laying my head in the crook of his arm. I sighed contentedly and closed my eyes, drifting off to sleep in his arms.

Oh So Sweet

Co-author: Ryan O’Hara

As I swayed gently with Angel, I saw him looking over my shoulder, a look of thought on his face. Moments later, a young man – he could only have been in his early twenties – came up and smiled at us.

“Hi. You two are really beautiful… can I have a dance with you?” He asked, brazen confidence in his voice. Angel allowed him to slip between us, and a moment later his fangs were in the boy’s throat. As he fed, his eyes met mine, the invitation clear.

Oh gods he’s sweet! I sent a telepathic thought through our blood link as I drank.

Yes, he is… Angel chuckled, before letting go of the bite moments before the young man’s knees buckled.

I pulled my fangs out of the lad and looked up at Angel, “But why?”

“We took a little too much…” Angel muttered, running his thumb over the wound to close it, then gently directing the boy on as if nothing had happened. Taking a small remote, Angel clicked it and a new song began, a deep reverberating bass and an ethereal sounding woman echoed in the room.

“To answer your question, my love,” he smiled as he pulled me into a slow sway, “the young man was a virgin.”

Holding him close, my desire growing as the bass rumbled through my body, I looked up into his eyes. “Oh! Is he now? Didn’t you offer me a bottle of that before? It wasn’t nearly as sweet…”

“Yes, I did give you a bottle… but refrigerating blood takes away a little of the taste, unfortunately. It is always better fresh.” He told me, suddenly dipping me as we swayed.

I giggled as Angel dipped me, coming back up I whispered in his ear, seduction dripping in my voice. “I want more…is there another?”

Angel whispered back, “all this is for you…The virgins…The women…The men…The experienced…All for you.”

A primal growl rose from my throat as I curled my lip, exposing a fang. “I want another virgin…now!”

Angel gazed back at me, seeing the bloodlust fill my eyes. “Pardon?”

The growing hunger oozed from me as my voice became low and animalistic, “I…Want…A virgin…now.” I growled.

“And you will…” He held me in his embrace, gazing intently at me, “you but hear me first.”

I returned the intense stare, eyes turning red with need.

“Hush.” He chuckled softly, “I said this was yours… and it is… literally…. You are now the silent partner of this club, Fenella.”

My eyes shifted back to normal as I dropped my mouth open. “I’m what?”

“You own this club. There is nothing to pay, nothing to do, except take care of those here when you visit to feed. If you want it, of course, as I can always ask Edward to change it…”

I ran my hand into his hair and pulled his head in to me deeply. “Don’t you dare! I will make you so proud! This place will be amazing! I mean…it already is…but…oh Angel!”

His lips met mine with a softness that was full of a deep hunger, the kiss short and sweet, before his eyes wandered the club around us, alighting upon a young girl. She was brown haired, blue eyed and the arousal radiated off of her like steam as she watched us with eyes full of desire.

I followed his gaze as my eyes alighted on the woman, “Is she?”

“Yes….” he nodded, his own hunger audible even in that one syllable.

“How can you tell?

Angel smiled, beckoning the girl over with a single crook of his finger.

“You can smell it on her… that tinge of purity in the blood.”

“There are so many smells in here right now..sex, blood, human sweat…I can’t…” as the woman approached I caught the scent he was describing and my mind went blank again. “Ohhhh,” I breathed.

Angel pointed across the club to a small sealed booth at the back of the club.

“Take her in there, Fen, and be careful. Virgin blood is addictive.”

I agreed solumely as my eyes turned crimson again, “I can see why.”

“My advice, my love, is to feed after you put her at ease, or she will run and might get hurt in the process.”

Glancing back at him in realization he was trusting me with her alone, “Aren’t you coming?”

“No…” he smiled widely, “unless you want to share her. I can smell her lust for us from here.”

Searching his face with my brows knit I asked, “I..I would feel safer knowing you were there to stop me.”

Angel took the hand of the girl and lead us both through the club to the booth, closing the door behind us. Her heart pounded in her chest as I placed my hand on hers, trying to give her some sense of security. I kissed the exposed flesh of her bicep and she shuddered.

Angel sat in the corner of the sofa and watched as she melted into my control, I nipped the young girl and let her blood flow. “Fuuck!” I growled as I sank my fangs in her neck taking deep pulls of her rich, sweet essence.

Angel pulled me away and sat the girl down, healing the wound as I watched. I growled at him for pulling me away, biting the air as blood trickled down my chin. He licked the blood off my chin, then whispered a suggestion to the girl. She crawled across the floor, kisseed up my chest and then slowly kissed me passionately.

I groaned into her, and took her mouth in mine. I ran my hands up her dress. I could see Angel out of the corner of my eye, sitting back and watching me. I bit my thumb, and placed it on the girl’s wounds. To my surprise and frustration, nothing happened.

As I watched the girl slowly bleed out, a snarl of deep anger bubbled up as Angel shifted to sit next to the girl and instantly healed her. I suddenly couldn’t stand to be around him, and muttered a curt “see you at home” before I vanished, leaving him with her.

Home

Artemis’ trusted nymph, Iphigenia, stepped back allowing Selene to pass beyond the waterfall, basket in hand. She walked into Artemis’ temple to find her resting by Sayeh’s too still, form.  “Hey,” Selene said softly, “how is she?”

Artemis turned her head to watch as she strode in, Selene’s eyes filled with compassion for Sayeh. Artemis crinkled her brow as she noticed that there was something different about Selene, but she couldn’t place what it was. 

“Hey.” Artemis got up to give her a hug, and with a deep sigh she replied, “Sayeh’s in a coma.”

Selene returned her hug and asked, “And you? I was worried you hadn’t left her to eat.” She lifted the basket of food she had brought.

Artemis wiped a quick tear from her eye and smiled a small smile. “I am ok. And you?”  She raised her hand to Selene’s cheek. “You look…you’re different, nice but different.” She took the basket from Selene, amazed by her caring attitude. “Thank you, you’re so sweet to come by, Sel.”

Selene smiled slightly, self-consciously running her hands through her hair. “I tried to go back to work, but I couldn’t stop thinking about you and Sayeh and…well, of home.” She paused before continuing, “My staff have everything running so smoothly.” She shook her head. “I felt I was needed here, more than there. Did you see your mom? Leto?”

Artemis watched as Selene ran her hand through her hair. She gasped and grabbed Selene by her shoulders, touching her hair in shock. “Your hair….it’s your hair. Sel…you cut it?”

Selene blushed and Artemis realized her reaction was stronger than she should have made it, releasing her suddenly, she smiled weakly, “You’re sure you are alright, though? You look stunning, regardless. The short cut suits you.”

Selene smiled, “Yeah, I’m ok. A lot changed while you were with your mom, but that’s ok.” She sat down by Sayeh and started pulling out containers of food. “I just…I couldn’t stand my hair falling in my face anymore…after…” She looked up from the food containers into Artemis’ eyes exchanging a brief, knowing glance, before looking back at her task at hand.

Artemis sat down beside her. Iphigenia brought them plates and joined them. “Visiting Mom was the best thing I have done in a while, I needed it. What did you mean by a lot has happened? Are you alright?”

“Good,” Selene replied. “I visited Ares. He taught me how to fight with less carnage, and to use a blade. 

Emotions flowed across Artemis’ face as she took that in. “You’re taking training from Ares?” Her eyes grew large as she asked the question.

“Yes,” Sel answered with a nod. “Ares and I are a unique combination.”

Artemis winced, feeling a tinge of jealousy prick at her when Selene said she was a unique combination with Ares. Artemis was surprised by her own feelings and something her mom had said played through her mind, but she quickly pushed it aside. 

Selene caught Artemis’ reaction from the corner of her eye at the mention of Ares and said, “Ares…” She shook her head and chuffed. “His mouth and mine…” Selene rolled her shoulder, “He is showing me how to use the things I already have, or wear, to defend myself more like a mortal, so I get into less trouble for excessive force.” Selene laughed, then realized this was not the time for laughter. Her face fell and she sighed deeply, then reached out to hold Artemis’ hand. “I’m sorry. I came asking about you and we are talking about me, sweet friend. Tell me, what did your mom say? I am here if you need me, ok?” 

Artemis blushed at her touch and gripped her hand tight. “Same goes for you, you know?” Selene kept Artemis’ hand in hers as her thoughts drifted to how soft they felt in hers, despite the rough work she did outdoors. Artemis ran her thumb over Selene’s knuckles, caressing them. Something about this time felt different and they held onto each other. 

Artemis smiled sadly, “You know, it was only when I met my mother that I realized how much I was missing her.”

Selene nodded knowingly. “Like when I saw Helios. It was like ripping open stitches?”

Artemis nodded vigorously. “Exactly, you know how it feels. At the same time, meeting her meant the universe to me.”

Selene looked up at her, glanced back at Iphigenia and remembered they weren’t alone. “Yes, I can imagine.”

Artemis followed her eyes and looked at Iphigenia, who sat there with a smirk on her face and a plate full of food in her hands.

Selene reluctantly let go of Artemis’ hand and picked up a plate, dishing food onto it. “So, was she able to help you through some of the memories Ananke stirred up?”

Artemis shuddered slightly at the mention of Ananke’s name before she followed suit and took a tiny amount of food on her plate. “I am sorry, Sel. The food is great, but I just don’t have an appetite when Sayeh’s like this.”

Selene nodded in understanding. “I figured, but knew you needed to eat, so I thought I’d bring you something worthwhile.”

Artemis smiled warmly at her thoughtful care, their gazes locking for a moment before she continued, “My mother gave me a different perspective which helped, but mostly she gave me an idea of how I can save Sayeh. I knew my mom would be able to help.”

Selene felt her cheeks flush with heat and dropped her gaze back to her plate. “So, what’s the plan?”

Artemis smiled and took a forkful of the food and chewed on it before she spoke, “Mom thinks that I should speak to Hekate instead of searching for the heartfire by myself. I sort of agree with her. Kate does have the magic to help me find it and I will go to the end of the universe if I have to for Sayeh.

Selene nodded while eating and listening. “Well, you aren’t going alone. You know that, right?

I told you before, you aren’t alone, Arty.”

Artemis smiled and looked down before Iphigenia shoved her elbow into her side. Artemis pushed her back and replied, “I was kinda hoping you’d say that, Sel. I could use your help and support…actually it’s a great comfort having you by my side.”

“Why do you think I came home?” Artemis blushed and smiled slightly as Selene continued. She looked Arty in the eyes and said, “Sayeh and you, you saved my life…” She looked down, unsure how Artemis would respond, then back up at her.

Artemis’ eyebrows crinkled as she let the words sink in. HOME, she had said HOME. Artemis repeated to herself. She quickly stopped herself from going there, remembering the last time she took the risk of falling in love. She smiled softly.

“We saved each other…actually Sayeh saved us both.” Her eyes, filled with sadness, resting on a sleeping Sayeh she added, “I just hope I can save her before it’s too late.”

Selene looked away, remembering her place. “I’m sorry. I overstepped.” Uncomfortably, she placed her hand on Sayeh and said quietly, “Me, too. I hope you find the heartfire and bring it home to her.”

“Overstepped? No, you did not, Sel. I am glad you’re here.”

Selene looked back at Artemis, “No, I made you uncomfortable. Just know, I’ll follow you anywhere, ok. You’re my dearest friend and I will do anything to help Sayeh and you.”

Artemis placed her hand on Selene’s again, “I know, and I want you to know that I am here for you, anytime.”

Selene smiled slightly as her heart warmed to Artemis’ touch again and she thought, If only she knew how I really felt.

Artemis went back to pushing the food around on her plate. “Anyway, I need to find Kate first and see what she has to say. I am planning to go to her at sundown.”

Selene nodded and asked, “Where to?”

Artemis looked at her, “I think she’s around the GC.”  Artemis took three cups and poured Selene, Iphigenia, and herself glasses of water before taking a sip of her own. Iphigenia excused herself and went to the inner chambers to prepare the concoction that had been keeping Sayeh alive.

Selene took the water, her hand touching Artemis’ again and her face flushed as she took a sip, hiding behind the glass.

Artemis noticed Selene twitching and thought to herself, am I seeing things or do I sense something different between us? She shook her head in an attempt to get the thoughts from her mind. “I am glad to hear that.”

“So, you’re leaving to find Hekate at sundown?” Selene asked.

Arty nodded, “Yes, I will check here at the GC first,” she said looking at Sayeh. “If she’s not there, I will have to seek her out by sending her a chant that she can hear from me. That will reveal her location to me.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

Artemis shook her head slowly, “No, sweet, Sel…this one I need to do by myself. Plus, you need to focus on your lab.”

Selene reached up and put a loose strand of Artemis’ hair behind her ear. “If you’re sure. It isn’t going anywhere, you know.”

Artemis looked down and smiled. “I will be sure to reach out if anything begins to go south. I promise.”

Selene nodded and put her hand back in her lap. “Please, never hesitate to ask. OK?”

Artemis smiled. “Thank you, Sel. For always being there.”

Selene smiled and nodded. “Why don’t you try to rest? Phi and I can sit and watch over Sayeh, or I can go, but you need to try to rest before you go find Hekate. Ok?”

Artemis nodded. “Yes, I need the strength to make this journey. Hopefully, Kate can help me find the heartfire.”

“Would you like me to stay? You know I don’t sleep, so I can stay with Phi if you like.”

Artemis smiled brightly, “That would be wonderful.”

Sel nodded and smiled. “Very well.” She cleaned up the meal and stood to walk towards the entrance. “Artemis, thank you for allowing me to enter your temple. I know it’s a special place for you and it hasn’t gone unnoticed.”

Artemis followed her and reached out to hug her. “No, thank you for offering to help.”

Selene hugged her in response, feeling warm all over. “Rest sweetie. We are here.”

Artemis inhaled deeply, the smell of her hair and the warmth in her embrace left her smiling and confused over what she was feeling for Selene.

Selene thought to herself, I don’t want to let go. I wish I could hold her while she sleeps, but she pulled back so Artemis could go. “Go…rest.”

Reluctantly, Artemis pulled out of her arms. “Yes…I must go.”

Selene turned and walked to the entrance, sat down with Iphigenia and kept guard for the evening.

Artemis is scribed by the amazing Rashmi Menon. The original story was posted on InThePantheon.com This post was written in tandem by Rashmi and myself at the beginning of a wonderful story-line I am pleased and proud to be a part of. Stay turned to see where this leads.