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The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author’s rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Revelations Copyright © 2011 Gabriella Bradley ISBN: 978-1-77111-013-6 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher. Published by eXtasy Books Look for us online at: www.eXtasybooks.com
Revelations Royal Vampires Three
By
Gabriella Bradley
Chapter One Would
she be there already? My heart thudded against my ribs when I entered the bar. It wasn’t busy. I guessed most people had to work the next day so had already gone home. Scanning for Katarina I saw her sitting at the end of the bar sipping a lemonade. I hurried to join her. “Milady,” I greeted softly as I stood beside her. When she turned to face me, I saw the shadows beneath her eyes, how pale she was. My deceit had caused her, was causing her, much pain. I felt it, sensed her agony, her troubled heart. It caused my own heart to ache for her. Compassion was a new sensation for me. Then again, I would experience many other new sensations throughout the coming years. “Sweetheart, I’m so glad you called me,” I said carefully. “It was against my better judgment. Let’s go for a walk. I don’t want to talk in here.” Once outside I tried to grasp her hand, but she pulled away. “Don’t touch me.” 1
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I had no idea what to say, what to do. We walked in silence to the park, to the fountain where we shared our first kiss. Why did she choose that spot? She sat on the edge of the fountain and played with the water. “Katarina, why did you say it was against your better judgment?” “My father said something to me that gave me pause to think that maybe I wasn’t being completely fair. After struggling with your deceit all afternoon and evening, I decided to call you, but once I arrived at the bar, I thought it was maybe a mistake. I abhor lies, deceit of any kind.” “I do, too, unless it’s necessary. In my case it was, and still is. Can you imagine the paparazzi if I were here as myself?” “Yes. I understand why you disguise yourself. What I don’t understand is why you didn’t tell me the truth after you declared your love for me. It tells me you didn’t trust me enough. My father convinced you to tell me the truth. If he hadn’t, would you have continued to deceive me?” “I honestly don’t know. I struggled with it, believe me. I was so glad your father and his family were invited to the gala so I could meet you as the king and I was happy you fell in love with the real me. I had no idea how to phase out Timothy without hurting you. I regret now that I took you out as Timothy. Maybe then you would 2
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have only fallen for the real me and not for the two of us. What did your father say that made you think?” I knew what he’d said, but I wanted to draw her out. “He said that you could never enjoy yourself normally as the king, that you couldn’t go to the bar and restaurants and have fun. It makes sense, but I fell in love with Timothy, and you encouraged it. Now that reporters have taken pictures of the king and me together, our pictures splashed on the front pages of the papers and in magazines, I can’t be seen with Timothy.” I sat beside her and placed my arm around her shoulders. She didn’t resist. “No, you couldn’t be seen with Timothy. I’m glad there are no paparazzi around right now. The last thing I need is for my disguise to become public and someone to put two and two together.” She stood suddenly and moved to stand in front of me. “Your deceit hasn’t killed the love I feel for you. Though I’m still hurt and it disturbs me deeply, I don’t want to lose you. But from now on, Timothy Lansing is no more for me. I’ll only see you as your true self.” I gazed up at her and though I’d never prayed, I now silently thanked God. But she didn’t know everything yet. Would she still feel the same after I told her the whole truth or would it send her running fast and far. “Katarina, I never thought I’d 3
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find my soul mate so fast. It was completely unexpected, but I feel it was meant to be. The fact that you fell in love with Timothy and the king, proves it.” “So you never were from England. You’re not here on holidays. You’re from Switzerland. And you’re not a computer programmer and analyst. You’re just a king.” A dry chuckle followed her statement. “I’m not from Switzerland either. I am able to program a computer, analyze websites, and build a computer. So that wasn’t a complete lie. Damn it, I had to give Timothy some kind of a personality.” “What do you mean you’re not from Switzerland? You were raised there, in foster care.” “Honey, there is a lot more I need to tell you but I can’t tell you here. I don’t think there is anyone nearby, but you never know. The goldfish might have ears,” I said jokingly, trying to bring a smile to her pretty lips. “What I have to tell you is top secret and only my future wife can know.” “Wife?” “Yes. I’ve told you I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Several times.” “That’s hardly a proposal.” “It’s not and isn’t meant to be. When I propose to you, it’ll be at the right time, the right place and under much more romantic circumstances. When I 4
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propose, my engagement will be made public the next day and wherever we go there will be reporters, unless of course we can slip away quietly, in secret. I want you to be fully aware of the kind of life you’ll be facing and I need to know if you’re up to it. That’s if you still want me of course?” I didn’t wait for her to answer. Instead, I stood, pulled her into my arms and held her tightly against my chest. I felt relief flood through me as she snuggled against me. “It’s overwhelming,” she said softly. “I’m just a commoner. Will they allow you to be with a commoner?” “They have no say in the matter. I’m King and I’ll decide who I want to be with. If need be, I’ll have them change the royal laws.” I cupped her chin with my hand and lifted her face. Bending down, I kissed her tenderly on the lips, then on her forehead, each eye, her nose and finally, her lips again. I felt them part beneath mine and she returned my kiss hungrily. Breaking away from my lips, she said, “I was never going to see you again, but that resolution broke my heart into a million fragments.” “I’m thankful you changed your mind, my darling. You are my true love, my soul mate. Destiny brought us together.” “Yes, I believe we belong together, but marriage to the king is a scary thought.” 5
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“I’m afraid that’s who I am and hope to be for many years. Honey, it’s late and you’re very tired. I’d like to see you tomorrow. You’re still off, right? We can ride to the chapel or, just in case there are workers there and they’ve started renovations, we can find another quiet spot. I’ll have them pack another picnic basket for us.” “I’m still off, and yes I feel drained. I’m emotionally exhausted. What time?” “I’ll send the car at ten.” I kissed her again, long and hard. My heart leapt in my chest with the joy I felt. I hadn’t lost her. But it wasn’t over. She still needed to know the whole story. “Did you drive or should I call a taxi for you?” “I drove. My car is parked near the bar.” “I’ll walk you back.” “I can drive you back to the castle, Joshua.” “I don’t use the front entrance, honey.” “Oh? Of course you wouldn’t, not in your disguise.” “I’ll explain all that to you tomorrow.” Her hand firmly clasped in mine, we walked slowly back to the bar. Her thoughts were still somewhat in turmoil, but nothing like before. We had almost reached the bar when three men appeared out of nowhere and jumped in front of us. I grasped Katarina’s hand tighter and steered her around them, but they jumped to block us. I scented them now. Why I hadn’t scented them 6
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before, I don’t know, unless they were hiding inside the building we’d passed. “Step aside!” I told them in a firm, loud voice. “We want no quarrel.” “Oh, but we do,” the tallest one of the three said softly and bared his teeth. I saw the fangs and felt Katarina’s hand tremble. “Vampires,” she whispered. “They’re real.” “Our master wants to meet you,” the man said looking directly at me. “I suggest you and your bitch go with us quietly.” “Be quiet,” I told Katarina when I saw her open her mouth to speak. I was afraid she’d use my real name and reveal my identity. That’s the last thing I needed right now. “Get out of our way and let us pass.” They moved closer, so close I could almost smell their foul breath. Like hell I wanted to give Katarina a display of my powers right then and there, but if they persisted, I’d have no choice. The tall vampire nodded to the other two and they jumped at us. I grabbed Katarina and placed her behind me while I went into vamp mode. “Stay behind me,” I hissed at her. I’d never felt such fury before, not even when I had my other encounters. This time they threatened my love. And that made all the difference. I felt Katarina bury her face against my back, her hands grasping my jacket. I watched them step back as they gazed into my 7
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eyes, fear now obvious on their faces. I had no idea what my face or eyes portrayed, but I had won momentum. The tall vampire regained his composure and started toward me. “Don’t try it,” I said through tight lips. “You’ll regret it.” “Who are you? One against three? You’re dreaming!” He lunged. I was ready for his lunge. How I did it, I don’t know, but somehow, when I unclenched my fists and my palms faced upward, a blinding iridescent ball appeared between my hands. I hurled it at the man as if I were throwing a baseball. It struck him mid chest and he howled. An unearthly scream rent the air as it sent him flying back by a few hundred feet. The other two vampires looked confused. They stared after their comrade, then at me and back at him again. “He’s a fucking sorcerer,” one of them said. “Fucking idiot, how can he be? Only Mahaka is a sorcerer.” “You saw what he did, and don’t be calling me fucking names.” “It’s a fluke. We have to take them to Paul or we’ll be fucking toast.” I felt Katarina behind me, her hands still clutching my jacket. “Joshua, be careful,” she whispered against my back. It was loud enough 8
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for me to hear, so the vampires probably heard it, too. Oh my God. She’d said my name. I watched the expressions on the men’s faces and knew it was too late. The tall vampire arrived back on the scene. I had no choice or Paul would find out my secret identity. I didn’t need to muster up anger. I was already seething inwardly. I pointed my finger at them, one after the other. Within seconds they each turned into a flaming pillar and were gone instantly. A patch of fine white ashes remained on the sidewalk. I took a deep breath and waited for the vamp to leave me. “Katarina? They’re gone. It’s safe now.” I wondered how much she’d seen from behind my back, or if she’d seen anything. I felt her hesitantly move around my body to finally join me at my side. “Where are they? I smelled fire,” she said, her voice trembling. “They’re gone.” “Joshua, are you sure? They were vampires. Did you see their fangs?” “Yes, I did. They’re gone, sweetheart. Let’s get you to your car so you can go home.” I hurried her to the car and kissed her before she got in. After she started it, I waited until she was out of sight, but as soon as her taillights disappeared, I went back into vamp mode and hurried to her house to 9
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make sure she got there safely. I watched as she entered the house. I saw the lights in her room go on, then off and was gratified that she closed her windows. I had no idea how much information Paul had picked up from the three vampires’ thoughts. If he had any idea of Katarina’s identity, her life would be in terrible danger. I doubted he would kill her at this point, but he could use her to lure me into his clutches. I watched Katarina’s house for quite a long time, until I was absolutely sure there was nothing lurking nearby. While I stood guard, I’d picked up Paul’s thoughts a few times. I was almost convinced he wasn’t aware of Katarina’s connection to Timothy yet. But I also knew that once the announcement of our engagement was made public, it would make him furious and it would put her life in danger as well. It was a nowin situation. There was only one way out, break up with her, never see her again. That thought caused a knife to twist slowly in my heart and I knew it would devastate her as much as it would me. Tomorrow, I’d explain everything to her, and maybe she’d understand why there was no way we could be together right now, not without her being in grave peril.
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Chapter Two After
a restless night, often disturbed by Paul’s angry thoughts about his three missing minions and their failure to bring him the man who had punched him in the bar and the woman that accompanied him, I slept late for a change. I hurriedly ate breakfast, asked John to tell the kitchen staff to get a picnic basket ready for me, then showered and dressed quickly. I was early and waiting for Katarina at the stables when she arrived. She still looked pale and the porcelain skin beneath her eyes was tinged with blue showing me she’d had a restless night, too. “Morning, Joshua,” she greeted me while she mounted her horse. “Good morning, Katarina. I’m glad you could join me,” I said formally for the benefit of the groom and other stable hands. “The limousine was besieged by the paparazzi 11
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at the entrance.” “I’m not surprised. I hope it didn’t upset you.” “I’m not sure I like having my picture splattered all over the place. Not at this point. We haven’t resolved everything yet.” We trotted slowly, side by side. “No, we haven’t. I hope we can do that today. There is a lot we need to discuss.” “Let’s not dawdle then,” she said and spurred her horse on to gallop ahead of me. The thought of telling her everything scared the hell out of me. I’d struggled with it most of the night. Where would I start? Baby, I’m a clone. Too crude. I decided to just let the conversation take its course and go from there. We passed through the village and I noticed that renovations had started on quite a few of the houses. Villagers bowed as we rode by. At least they didn’t scurry away anymore or hide like they did in the beginning. When we arrived at the chapel, I noticed a lot more materials, but no workers yet. In a way I was glad, but in another sense annoyed. I wanted it renovated fast. I decided the chapel would be the best place to tell Katarina everything. We dismounted. Before I could assist her, she’d already jumped down. Taking her hand, I led her to the chapel and inside it, right up to the big wooden cross. An old oak bench stood beneath it. 12
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“Please sit,” I told her and waited for her to sit down. Then I knelt before her and took both her hands in mine. “Sweetheart, I hardly know where to start except at the very beginning. You know the history of the royals. Paul married Juliette and she did not conceive. Juliette became very ill and died from cancer.” “Yes, I know all that.” “What you don’t know is that Paul was turned before he was crowned king. He’s a vampire.” “You’re joking. The king?” “Yes. That’s why Juliette couldn’t conceive.” “But she had you. So where and how did she get pregnant? You mean Paul is not really your father?” “He’s not my father, no. Let me tell you what happened twenty-five years ago.” I told her everything and she listened quietly until I stopped talking. “So that story about your foster family and Switzerland was all fabricated?” “Yes. The cabinet had to come up with a plausible explanation.” “You’re a vampire, too.” “Yes. But I’m not a killer vampire. I don’t thirst for blood and I only kill if I have to. Like last night.” “You killed those men?” 13
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“Yes. After you said my name I had to or Paul would have known my disguise and you would be in terrible danger. And that’s the other thing we need to talk about.” I took both her hands in mine and looked into her eyes. “I love you with all my heart, but if I ask you to marry me, you’ll be in grave danger from Paul and his minions. I love you too much to lose you. It’s best if we are apart until I can get everything resolved.” “Will you ever be able to best Paul and resolve this seemingly hopeless situation?” she asked quietly, though a tear trickled down her cheek. “I can best Paul any time. I possess powers no other vampire has, thanks to Derek playing with the DNA of several others, like Mahaka for one. But, though we are strangers and there is no love between us, there is a kind of blood bond. I would hesitate to kill him.” “Even though he plans to do away with you eventually and wants to take back the throne?” “Yes. It is through his order that I exist. He is almost identical to me. We’re like twins, except for our coloring.” “He’s an old man.” “I’m sorry. I forgot to tell you he wore make-up for many years to make him appear older and older.” “Really! I never liked Paul. It could take years for you to find solutions to everything and you 14
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expect me to wait?” “No. The thought tears me apart, but I think it’s best if you move on. Maybe marriage to Gordon is better for you.” “Joshua, I feel like slapping you. I don’t love Gordon. Yes, I do, but I’m not in love with him. You and I are soul mates. I’ll be by your side, no matter what happens.” “I can’t ask that of you.” “You’re not asking. I’m telling you that I won’t let you go now. You being a vampire doesn’t scare me in the least. I have another question for you. Are you sterile?” “No, I’m not. Derek corrected that faulty gene.” “Well, we’re good to go. Not that that would have stopped me either. I would have merely asked you to have me artificially impregnated.” I’d not cried as a grown man but now I felt so emotional that tears flooded my eyes. What had I expected after telling her the complete truth? I didn’t know. I’d imagined all scenarios throughout the night, her slapping me, walking away in disgust never wanting anything to do with me again, agreeing that we should not see one another. I hadn’t dared to imagine this reaction. Something rolled down my cheek. It was a lonely tear, one that had come from the bowels of my soul. Katarina leaned forward and kissed it away, then licked her lips. 15
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“Your tears taste salty, just like mine,” she whispered. “I love you, Joshua, now and forever. I’ll not leave your side, no matter how much danger faces us in the future.” I got up off my knees, and placing my hands under her armpits pulled her up into my arms. I crushed her against me, her tiny form melding with my own. I rained kissed on her head, her forehead, her cheeks, her chin, then whispered against her lips, “I never believed there really was a God, but now I do.” Katarina wriggled loose and reached up placing both hands on either side of my face. I watched the tears trickle down her cheeks. “What you just said makes me happier than anything else and I think we need to kneel in His presence and give thanks. He allowed the cloning and you’re His soldier. I’m convinced of that.” I knelt beside her and listened to her soft prayer. I was God’s soldier? Could it be true? If so, He’d given me a mighty task. We walked out of the chapel hand in hand. Our horses waited quietly near the beautiful patch of grass and pond. Before I took the picnic basket off the horse, I felt my pocket. Yes, it was there. I’d hesitated to bring it, but then decided I’d give her the ring anyway as a token of my everlasting love, never imagining she’d refuse to break off the relationship. 16
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I loved looking at her relieved expression, her laughter contagious as we attempted to spread the red checkered cloth on the grass, and the wind kept blowing it the wrong way. When we finally had everything set out and we munched on the fantastic picnic lunch the chef had prepared, she asked me, “Joshua, we’ll be seeing each other now under your true identity. What about Timothy? Are you going to stop masquerading?” “I can’t. It’s the only way I can try and save people, find out things.” “Then I want you to turn me so that I can be with you on your excursions and fight by your side.” “Like hell. Anyway, since I’ve never turned a person in my life, I don’t even know how to do it.” It wasn’t entirely true. From Paul’s memories I knew very well how to turn someone, but there’s no way I would agree to turn Katarina and I had no idea if I had that capability or if Derek had killed it off when he tampered with my DNA. “You’ll be in so much danger. Wouldn’t it be better if you had someone to help you?” “Yes, it would, but I don’t plan on biting people, sweetheart. I don’t lust after blood.” I opened the wine and poured the rich red liquid into the crystal goblets. Why they insisted on sending along crystal, I had no idea. Before I 17
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handed her the glass, I dug in my pocket, pried the ring out and dropped it into the glass. “A toast,” I said as I handed her the glass. “To us.” Smiling, she swirled the wine, then took a sip. “To us.” I could hardly wait until she drank it down. It took a while until she eventually got down to the last bit. Raising her glass she let the wine slide into her mouth, to suddenly pull the glass away and stop. She spluttered, spit, and looked at what she’d caught in her hand. “Ooooh,” she said softly as she licked the wine off the ring. The emerald and surrounding diamonds sparkled in the sun. It was Juliette’s ring given to her by her father. Juliette’s engagement ring was in the royal coffers as well, but I decided it was not in good taste to give my love a ring bought by Paul. “Will you marry me and do me the honor of becoming my queen?” I asked. “It’s beautiful,” she said softly, then whispered, “Does it come with a manual? How to be a queen?” “It was Juliette’s ring. Her father bought it for her on her twenty-first birthday.” I took the ring from her fingers and placed it on her ring finger. It fit perfectly as if it was made for her. “Will you marry me?” I asked again. 18
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“Yes, oh yes, I will, no matter what the future holds in store for us.” “How about we keep it quiet for just a little while? Once I go public with the announcement, our life will change, especially your life. Let’s wait until your father has had a chance to do some research. Maybe he’ll find the cure and a lot of our worries will go away. “Not all worries. What about the werewolves you told me about?” “Maybe he’ll find the antidote for them, too. Your miracle God caused you to forgive me, maybe He’ll help your father find the cures and antidotes.” “Joshua, I love you. Now that I can only see you as the king, how often can we see each other?” “Often, but I’ll still be going out as Timothy. So if you run into me anywhere as my other self, you’ll have to pretend to have no love interest in me. Can you do that? Although I don’t like the idea of you going out by yourself. I don’t trust Paul and his followers for a second.” “For now, let’s stop talking and just enjoy this time together,” she suggested. I didn’t need to be told twice. In seconds, she was in my arms and I kissed her deeply. My dormant libido was super charged and cranked to high. Oh, I wanted her, needed her, but all I could do was squirm against her sexy body. I lowered 19
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the straps of her top, stroked the swelling of her breasts, rained kisses down her neck, then dared pull down her top until her perky breasts were exposed to my thirsty eyes. Her nipples were erect and hard nubs, the aureole puckered. She had beautiful breasts, not too small, not too large, and very firm. I took a nipple into my mouth and heard her deep sigh. She arched up against my lips. With my free hand I kneaded her other breast and tweaked the nipple. She squirmed beneath me. I felt her hand against my straining jeans, my cock aching for release. I couldn’t allow this to go on. I wanted her so much, but I also wanted her to have her wedding night. From her thoughts I knew she wanted to save herself for that important night, so I was not about to take advantage of her while she was vulnerable. I hardened myself, and resolutely pulled her top up, then just held her against me. “Joshua…” she whispered, “I want you.” “We’ll wait,” I said softly against her lips. “I want everything to be perfect. I’ll not take you before we’re married.” “Am I required to be a virgin before you marry me?” “I’ve got no idea. Thanks to my reclusive upbringing, I’ve developed old fashioned ideas, so we’ll wait until our wedding night. I’ve also read your thoughts about your wedding night,” I told 20
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her. “I’m kind of uncomfortable with the idea that you can hear my thoughts.” “I’m sorry. I can turn that ability off if I want. It’s not the greatest gift to have. Imagine being in a room filled with people and you hear everyone’s thoughts. It can be quite a jumble. You and I will have a traditional wedding and a fantastic wedding night. We’ll plan it carefully, together. We’ll spend the night somewhere private, away from everything, and our honeymoon will be somewhere on a deserted island or something.” “I can hardly wait,” she murmured and kissed me.
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Chapter Three Seven
weeks had gone by since I proposed to Katarina. We’d seen each other often, as much as time would allow. At her request, I’d not spent much time as Timothy. Today I had the chauffeur pick her up for a romantic dinner in my private quarters. By now, the tabloids, papers and magazines, had a heyday with my personal life and I had to step in and warn reporters to keep clear of Katarina. I knew it was time to announce our engagement and make it official for the cabinet and the public. It was also time to set a wedding date. “Joshua, what did you do with that ancient book we found in the chapel?” Katarina interrupted my thoughts. “I was just thinking about that this morning. I need to take it to Mahaka. He will know what it’s all about.” 22
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“When are you going to take me to meet Mahaka?” “Soon. He told me he wanted to meet you, but after your birthday.” “Why after my birthday?” “I have no idea. I didn’t ask the question. Tomorrow I meet with the cabinet and I’m going to announce our engagement.” “That scares the hell out of me. What if they oppose you?” “They’d better not. Don’t worry, my love. You will reign by my side.” “I just want to be with you, not so much as a queen, just as the woman that loves you.” “Are you sure you’re ready for this? I know I made the decision to tell the cabinet, but I should have asked you that question first.” “As long as you’re with me, I can face anything.” “Have you told your parents about us? Hans hasn’t mentioned anything.” “Only what they need to know. My father is satisfied you told me the truth. My mother doesn’t know anything of course except that you and I are dating.” After we finished our dessert, we danced to soft music. Having her in my arms was akin to being in heaven, or at least my idea of heaven. She pulled away and looked up at me. 23
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“Joshua, will you call me after you’ve met with the cabinet?” “Yes, of course I will.” I bent and kissed her on the lips. Within a second, the kiss deepened into the full blown passion I felt for her and she responded the same. I scooped her into my arms and carried her to my bed and lay down with her. My cock throbbed as I tugged down the top of her dress and exposed her perky breasts. I ached to lift her skirts, to stroke her soft belly, the tuft of brown hair at the V of her legs, to feel her virginal lips, but I restrained myself to only concentrate on her breasts, her nipples and her lips. That was as far as I’d gone. I knew if I strayed to other desired territories she wouldn’t protest at all, but my resolution was firm. She squirmed beneath me, pushed her hips against mine. Her hand tried to dig between my belt, but I managed to stop her. If she managed to release my cock and aching balls and touched them, I doubted I could have stopped.
My meeting with the cabinet started early the next morning. After all business matters were discussed, I made my announcement. The new prime minister jumped up. “Your Majesty, Katarina Goddard is a commoner, the daughter of a commoner. It’s against the law—” 24
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“Silence!” I thundered. “I make the laws and that law is abolished from this day forth. I will marry whom I please. Katarina Goddard will be my bride and my queen, with or without your approval. We’re not living in the dark ages anymore.” “Your Majesty, you cannot make a commoner a queen.” “I herewith bestow the title of Duke on Hans Goddard. Please draw up the necessary documents and arrange for a fast, private ceremony. The Lady Katarina Elizabeth Goddard will become my bride. I want the title bestowed today and the announcement be made public immediately.” “Your Majesty, this is a grave mistake—” I felt anger now, real anger. Some of the ministers that opposed me were vampires. I could smell their scent. Influenced by Paul, of course they would oppose a marriage, no matter who the bride. “Don’t you dare tell me it’s a mistake. I’ll tolerate no opposition. You will accept Katarina Elizabeth Goddard as my intended bride.” I closed the meeting and hurried back to my quarters. I knew Katarina was waiting for my call, so I called her immediately. “It’s done, my love. Not without opposition, but I stood my ground. After today, you will be Lady Katarina Elizabeth Goddard. Your father will have the title of a 25
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duke.” “Wow. Just like that?” “Yes. Just like that. I’ve ordered the announcement to be made public tomorrow, so be prepared.” “Okay. You caught me on lunch break. I have to get back to work,” she said, sounding rather timid, or more, overwhelmed. “I’m off at three. Will you be there or have your phone on you?” “I’m taking the book to Mahaka this afternoon. I won’t take my phone. I doubt I’d get reception in the forest and mountains.” “Can you ask him why he doesn’t want to meet me until after my birthday?” “Don’t know if he’ll answer. He tends to ignore questions. You’re off tomorrow. I think you should be here with me when the news is out. We’ll need to make a public appearance.” “Good grief. Already? What will I wear? I have to go. They’re beeping me.” I was still afraid that it could all be too much for her. “I love you, sweetheart.” “I love you, too. I’ll see you soon?” “Yes. I’ll send the chauffeur for you at dinnertime. Bring clothes and nightwear along. Maybe it’s best if you spend the night at the castle. In one of the guestrooms of course.” I wasn’t sure she heard that last bit. After she clicked off, I changed and dug the old 26
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book out of its hiding place in my closet. I wrapped it in a towel and lay it ready for me to take. Lunch was on the table when I walked back into the living room. “John, you may go now. Take the afternoon off. I don’t want to be disturbed for the rest of the day until dinnertime. The lady Katarina will be joining me for dinner this evening,” I told the hovering man. The door closed behind him and I quickly turned the large brass key to lock the double doors. Hurriedly, I ate my lunch then fetched the book, stuffed it into a small backpack I’d found in the closet, and entered the hidden passage. I didn’t even need my flashlight anymore. By now, I knew the way, plus my vampire sight was like xray vision. I went into vamp mode right away, not wanting to waste any time. Mahaka’s wolves greeted me with wagging tails. They remembered me from my last visit. I crouched down and patted them. They frolicked around me playfully until Mahaka appeared in the grotto opening. I didn’t even need to look up to know that he stood there, watching us. I straightened and walked toward him. “Joshua, you bring me a precious gift.” “How did—” I didn’t continue. The old wizard knew everything, why ask. I was unable to read 27
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the old man’s thoughts, something else I’d wondered about. “It took you a while to bring it to me. You’ve had it for quite a while now.” “I’ve been kind of busy.” It wasn’t a lie. Between my royal duties and courting Katarina, yes, I’d been busy. I followed him into the grotto and sat on one of the stone chairs. Taking the backpack off, I opened it and produced the old book. I gave it to Mahaka, who stood waiting for it. He carried it to his stone table and lay it down carefully. “This is precious.” “Mahaka, you seem to know everything. I’m surprised you didn’t know where it was.” “It has been missing for many centuries. You found it in the old chapel on the castle grounds.” “Katarina did. There was a small metal cupboard, or niche, covered with a heavy metal plate. The padlock was completely rusted, Katarina opened the lock and when she looked inside, the book was there.” “I’m amazed it was still there. I presume the niche was covered with steel. That’s maybe why I couldn’t locate it.” “What is it? Who did it belong to? Why was it hidden behind steel and padlocked?” “If the book was hidden anywhere else, it would have been discovered a long time ago. 28
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You’re the first to set foot in the chapel since the old king and queen. Paul doesn’t like hallowed ground and the chapel is reportedly haunted. So none of the royal staff that live on the palace grounds dared enter the chapel. Those who have tainted blood didn’t dare venture into it either.” “I noticed. The door wasn’t easy to open. So the book was there when the old king and queen were alive?” “Yes, and centuries before their time. I doubt they knew about it or they would have mentioned it to me. I suspect the steel door was hidden behind a portrait or a wall hanging many years ago. The key to the padlock was probably buried.” That still didn’t answer my other questions. Mahaka lifted a corner of his robe and carefully dusted the ancient leather. I watched as he carefully undid the copper or gold hinges and opened it. His keen, sharp eyes studied the content. The pages didn’t crumble as I’d expected, but I could see how carefully he turned each page and how yellowed and stiff the pages were. “This dates back to the fifteenth century. There are those who would love to get their hands on it. Like Paul.” “Paul knows about it? What is it about? I didn’t dare open it.” “It’s in Latin so you wouldn’t have known anyway. It is the first book ever written and 29
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published. It talks about sorcery, witches, demons, vampires and werewolves. Besides it being invaluable for me, it would fetch a substantial amount if offered for auction. There were rumors over the years of its existence, but no copies were ever found. The book can be dangerous in the wrong hands.” “So how did it end up in the chapel and if it can be that dangerous, why not burn it? The chapel can’t be older than a couple of hundred years.” “The chapel is as old as the castle, and it dates back to the twelfth century. Its rock walls are of such stone that will not crumble. I don’t know what the mortar consists of that holds the stonework together, but yes, that’s how old the castle and chapel both are. The castle has been upgraded many times, the chapel in earlier years, but it fell into neglect under Paul’s reign.” “There isn’t much information available on the history of Silverwarren Island, so I never had the opportunity to learn about its past.” “I can help you there. Have you ventured into the castle’s library yet?” “No. I should.” “Yes. You should. It holds many antique books. There is also a locked room off the library where all records are kept. You, as the king, should have a key to it.” “That’s interesting. I was never given any 30
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keys.” “Mm, I wonder if Paul took them with him. I wouldn’t put it past him.” “I’ll inquire.” “So, young Joshua, you weathered the storm and tomorrow is the announcement of your official engagement to Lady Katarina.” “It wasn’t that bad a storm. Katarina forgave me for my deceit and I overpowered all argument from the cabinet.” “It is her birthday very soon. After that, I would like to meet her. It is important that I see her the next day.” “May I ask why?” I dared. I couldn’t help but constantly feel intimidated by the wise old man. “No. When the time is right, you will know why.” At least he hadn’t ignored my question. Without another word, his head bent close to the book, Mahaka read. It seemed he’d forgotten about me until he suddenly straightened and looked at me. “Here it foretells your creation. Accurately. It’s amazing.” “You’re kidding me.” “It is a book filled with predictions. After I read it, I will be able to tell you more.” “I’ll leave you to it then.” “Joshua, before you leave, have you discovered 31
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any other abilities since we met?” “Yes. If I concentrate on removing an obstacle and hold my hands out, a ball of light appears between my hands and I can hurl it at the person or object. It sends it or them flying. I used it on a vampire and then I experimented with rocks.” “Ah, some more of my DNA is surfacing. I wonder—” “Wonder what?” I asked when he stopped. “That’s all for now. Thank you for bringing this book to me. I will see you the day after your lady’s twenty-first birthday.” “It’ll take a while for us to get here. She doesn’t have my ability to travel at super speed.” “No need. I will meet with you both at the castle. Expect me the next day.” His head bowed down low again and he picked up a magnifying glass to look at something. I murmured a goodbye, but he didn’t look up, so I left the grotto and quickly headed for home, forgetting to ask how Mahaka would get to the castle. On my way back I thought about the mysterious book and all it contained and wondered if Mahaka would ever tell me everything. Why would Paul want the book? Could he read Latin? How could it be dangerous? It also reminded me of the book Katarina had talked about, the one her grandmother had given her. I 32
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needed to learn more about Silverwarren Island’s history and determined to check out the library Mohaka had mentioned.
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Chapter Four To
my surprise, Katarina didn’t come alone. Hans bowed and greeted me. “Joshua, I’m sorry to intrude, but I need to talk to you about Katarina’s startling news.” “Make yourself comfortable, Hans. Would you care for a glass of wine?” Upon his nod, I filled one of the crystal goblets and handed it to him, then sat opposite him. Katarina stood behind me. “I didn’t see you at the meeting this morning or I would have told you myself, in private.” “I couldn’t come this morning, and I already told you I don’t approve and why. You’re putting my daughter in danger and she’s far too young to take on the responsibility. I also think you’re jumping head first into this without thinking rationally.” “I love Katarina, Hans. I’ve told you this.” “Yes. But what troubles me is that you were isolated your whole life. You’ve never dated 34
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anyone else. What you feel may not be true love. I think you should inform the cabinet that you’re postponing the engagement. I’d like you to date other women.” “Dad, stop,” Katarina pleaded. “No, honey. I’m deeply concerned. Not only that you’re Joshua’s first and only love, but you know now what he is and the dangers that lurk.” “Hans, she is my soul mate. Believe me, I had no thoughts of marriage when I became king. Not so soon. Yes, I longed for love. Doesn’t everyone? I never imagined I’d meet my true love so fast. And she is the one. Even Mahaka said so.” “He did, did he? I know I can’t stop either of you, but I did need to voice my concerns. Can you at least wait to marry? Give your relationship some time?” “I don’t want a long engagement, Dad, but we’ll need time to make all the arrangements. Joshua and I haven’t discussed a wedding date yet. Good grief, our engagement isn’t even official yet.” “But by the sounds of it, it will be tomorrow. I’m afraid for you, poppet.” I know I’d promised Katarina not to read minds, but I couldn’t help it. I needed to know Hans’s thoughts. When Paul hears about the engagement her life will always be in danger. I’ll have to hire bodyguards for 35
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her. But can they stop a vampire? Most likely not. I understood his concern. “Hans, I think it’s a good idea if Katarina stops working and moves into the castle. Paul doesn’t dare show himself here.” “And you know that for sure.” “Yes. There are only two ways to get into the castle, via the prince’s rooms and here. I’ve sealed off the other secret entrance.” “How?” “I caused the walls to collapse within the stairwell. No one can get through.” “You told me vampires are super strong. It wouldn’t take them long to clear away a pile of rock. Besides that, look what Paul did to the ministers.” “Paul won’t try anything. Not at this point. How is your research coming along?” Hans sighed. “It might take a while. A long while. I’ve duplicated everything Derek accomplished and I’m going from there.” “Good. Right now, we don’t need to worry about Paul. He left the island a few weeks ago with a group of his minions. They went to the USA, and he sent more of his followers to several other countries.” “Really? To what purpose?” “He wants to join forces with other vampire kings, to infiltrate all countries and take over the 36
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world.” Hans laughed. “Well, I should be glad he’s not here, but it’s sad really. He expects to take over the leading nations? We’re talking billions of people. He’d have to turn hundreds of thousands into vampires.” “There are already many, but yes, that’s his plan, with the help of the existing vampire clans in those countries.” “He doesn’t aim small.” “No, and it makes the task set out for me daunting, to say the least. The only answer is a cure or antidote.” “And then you’ll have a tough time finding them all.” “Yes. That’s why, when you’ve found it, I need good vampires to help me. We need to sniff them out. Humans wouldn’t know who is a vampire or not.” “It’s an impossible mission,” Hans said. “Maybe. Nothing is impossible.” There was a knock on the door. “Dinner is here. Would you like to join us?” “Thank you, but I’ve already eaten. I’ll leave you two alone.” Hans left and I waited until the servants were gone before taking Katarina in my arms. Cradling her head against my chest I had to ask the question again. “Sweetheart, it’s not too late to 37
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change your mind. Are you sure you want to go through with it?” She twisted out of my grip and looked up at me. “Josh, if you mention that again, I’ll slap you. I’m scared, but yes, I’m sure.” “Your life will change completely. I’m afraid you won’t be able to handle it all.” “I’m a lot stronger than I look and I learn fast. Now do I have His Majesty’s permission to eat? I’m starving.” I laughed and hugged her before sitting down to eat. During dinner I asked, “Do your parents have anything planned for your birthday?” “We haven’t really talked about it.” “How about we combine our engagement celebration with your birthday? I’ll set everything in motion for the biggest celebration the castle has ever seen.” “I thought our wedding would be the biggest,” she said thoughtfully. “Have you thought about a wedding date? I really don’t want to wait a long time, especially if I’m going to be living in the castle.” “When would you like to get married?” “Tomorrow?” I almost choked on my food. “Eh… elope?” “You’re the miracle king. I’m sure you could arrange everything.” I looked at her face and though she looked 38
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serious I saw the dancing merriment in her eyes. “Good thing you’re joking. You scared me there for a minute.” “Oh? Scared to marry me now?” “Oh, baby,” I reached across the table and grabbed her hand, squeezing it. “If we could be married tomorrow, I’d be all for it. I ache to hold you in my arms all night, every night.” “Josh, what should I wear tomorrow?” “When you go to your rooms, you’ll find a closet filled with clothing I ordered for you. Well, I had some help of course. I suggest you do some online research on what other royals wore on such occasions. You’ll find a computer in your room.” “Wow, you thought of everything. How did you know my size?” “I don’t. There is a royal dressmaker and I asked her to look after it for me. I did specify some colors. All shades of blue, turquoise especially to match your lovely eyes, pale greens, mauve, red, black, and I left the rest up to her. She knew what she was doing.” How would she know my size?” “Mm, maybe she called your mother? Your sister?” “Surely they would have said something?” “Maybe they wanted you to be surprised?” “So what happens tomorrow?” “There will be a press release and conference at 39
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nine in the morning. I have hired a dresser for you, your personal assistant. She is an older lady and came highly recommended. Her name is Heather Hewitt.” “Wow.” “You’ll also have a personal hair stylist and other staff. Believe me, you’ll receive the full treatment in the morning.” “Wow again. I’m awed. I’m also not sure about it all. I prefer to dress myself.” “As do I, much to John’s chagrin. But it’s nice to have manicures, facials, your hair styled and such.” “You have facials?” Katarina asked and grinned. “In a manner of speaking. Not like you will.” I laughed with her. “Josh, let me sleep here tonight?” she asked me softly. “Sweetie, I’d like nothing more, but it’s better not. I’d be far too tempted and we also don’t want to start any more gossip than there already is flying around.” “Let me lie with you a while at least before I go to my room?” I didn’t need to be asked twice. I stood, scooped her into my arms and carried her to the bed and lay her down gently. I gazed down at her for a few moments before getting onto the bed with her. She 40
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looked so vulnerable, so fragile. Was she up to the task ahead? Would she be able to handle it all? Brief images flitted through my mind of other royal engagements and marriages that ended in failure, some because the women were too young. It worried me. “Josh?” I startled out of my thoughts and took her into my arms. I loved the way she said Josh. No one had ever called me that. Maybe I was worrying needlessly. Katarina was a sensible young woman and quite mature for her age. After all, what experience did I have in being the king? Yes, I had Paul’s experience to draw on at least, but I’d had no real life experience until now. And of course there was the little nagging worry about Paul in the back of my mind. “Yes, sweetheart?” “What’s wrong?” “Nothing, hon. I was just thinking about tomorrow.” I felt it was best not to voice those concerns to her. I cradled her against me and held her tight. She wriggled loose and pushed me on my back, then got on top of me. Leaning down, she rained small kisses on my face, her fingers tangled in my hair. “I love you so much it hurts,” she whispered against my lips. I reached up and massaged her breasts through 41
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the thin silk of her blouse. I ached to undo the buttons, but restrained myself. My cock was so hard it hurt, my balls and sack taut, feeling as if it would burst. She was horny. She rubbed against me, sat right on top of my cock and wriggled her body. It took all the strength I could muster not to undress her and do the deed. “Honey, stop teasing me. You’re killing me,” I said, my voice hoarse from pent up desire. She lay on top of me and sought my lips. I opened them willingly and drank from her kiss hungrily. We loved and petted for quite a long time until I noticed the time. “Katarina, it’s near midnight. We have a big day tomorrow.” “Will you walk me to my room?” “Yes, of course. It’s not far from mine.” After another kiss, she scrambled off the bed and straightened her blouse and ran to the mirror to brush her hair. I looked at her rosy cheeks and knew the palace staff probably already drew their conclusions about Katarina’s visits to my quarters. Before I opened the door, I kissed her. “I can’t kiss you in public, honey. So this is your goodnight kiss.” “Not even after we’re married?” “Sweetheart, do you ever see royals kissing each other when you watch the news? Or videos of their appearances?” “I suppose not. And I can’t walk next to you. I 42
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always have to be a step behind you.” “No. I aim to make you my queen. You’ll be by my side. Let’s change the stupid royal protocol rules.” She walked demurely by my side while we walked to her rooms. Two guards were stationed outside her doors. I’d picked them myself so I could be sure they weren’t vampires. So far, I hadn’t scented vampires within the castle walls, but I had to be sure. “Here we are. Your rooms, M’lady.” “Goodnight, Joshua. I’ll see you in the morning.” I took her hand, kissed her fingers and opened the door. As she walked inside, I heard a small gasp before she closed the door while blowing a kiss at me. I smiled. She was impressed with her rooms. I hurried back to my quarters and locked the doors behind me. My cock still throbbed, my balls ached. I needed release. Hurriedly, I took off my clothes and lay on the bed. Concentrating, I saw Katarina as she undressed to get into the big four poster princess bed. It hastened my release as I moved the skin back and forth and my semen spurted onto my belly and thighs. It didn’t seem to want to stop. My passion had been suppressed all evening and was now let loose. After my release, I closed my mind to Katarina 43
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and concentrated on Paul. I’d found it was a lot more difficult to pick up his thoughts now that he was so far away, but I still caught his thoughts every now and then. All I got from him was failure. He hadn’t been able to make contact with the right people. I left Paul’s mind to concentrate on Katarina again. She had already fallen asleep. Right now, with Paul gone, I didn’t need to worry too much about her. My only worries were about our future now.
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Chapter Five I wore a gray Armani suit with a white shirt and a
silver tie. I had no idea what Katarina would be wearing so I thought to be safe in choosing colors. At eight-fifty there was a knock on the door. “Enter,” I called out eagerly, although John already rushed to open the doors. Katarina stood outside, a vision of loveliness in a sea-foam green dress, close fitting in the waist but flaring out into frothy waves of the pretty seafoam colors blending into white with sort of frilly stuff at the hem. The top was fitting and quite plain. She wore an emerald necklace with matching earrings and bracelet. Her hair hung in loose waves over her shoulders and down her back. Her make-up was subtle. Her feet were clad in high heeled shoes that matched the dress. She was a goddess come to life. I stood speechless for a moment just staring at her before I joined her. “You look stunning,” I told her as I took her hand and drew it through my arm. “Okay, let’s go 45
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and face them. Your ring?” She held her left hand up, the emerald and diamonds sparkling in the light. “How do you feel? Did you sleep okay?” “Actually, to my surprise, I did. I thought I’d be too wound up to sleep, but I fell asleep almost as soon as I crawled into bed.” “That’s good. I hope you’re ready for this. I’ll do most of the talking, okay?” The press was already waiting when we entered the room and took our places. Cameras flashed, TV cameras taped us and the reporters looked excited. I opened with, “I would herewith like to announce the engagement between Lady Katarina Goddard and myself. You may ask your questions now.” I had no idea if I’d worded that correctly. No one had advised me and I couldn’t find anything in Paul’s memories. They fired questions, mainly at me, some at Katarina, and I was surprised at the dignity with which she handled it all and her answers. She was flawless. Then came a final question. “Your Majesty, have you set a date for the wedding?” I thought fast and hard. It was now July. Katarina’s birthday was at the end of July. “We are planning to be married on December the twentyfourth but that’s not set in stone. We’ll release a 46
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definite date soon.” It would give us almost five months to prepare. Once again, Katarina showed me her maturity in handling a situation. She hadn’t been prepared for this at all but she showed no surprise at my announcement. The press conference now over, we first posed for our official engagement photos. Then we walked back to my rooms. As soon as the doors closed behind us, Katarina faced me. “Thanks for dumping that on me without warning!” “Sorry. They put me on the spot.” “What if I don’t agree with that date?” “That’s why I said it wasn’t set in stone. I randomly chose a date.” “Christmas Eve isn’t the greatest day to get married.” “Thinking about it now, no, it isn’t. How about you think about it? We also have to keep in mind the invitations that will go out to dignitaries from around the world. I doubt many would want to attend a wedding at that time of the year.” “What’s next on the agenda for today? I’d love to get out of these clothes for a while.” “Luncheon with the cabinet ministers and their wives at noon. Why don’t you go and change while I check my computer. I bet the news is out already.” 47
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And it was. I read her the article before she left for her rooms. “There goes life as you knew it,” I said, turning to her. “So far, by the looks of it, you’re a natural. I’m very proud of you.” “The main thing I’m not going to like is having to get dressed up all the time, wearing high heels. I prefer casual.” “And that makes two of us. There will be plenty of casual time, but be prepared. There will always be reporters lurking nearby.” “It’s hardly worth getting changed. Noon isn’t that far away.” Katarina bent and kissed me briefly on the lips. “You look incredibly handsome today,” she murmured. “And I don’t any other day?” She smacked me. “I mean all dressed up and everything. I’ve only ever seen you in casual clothes, except at church and then you’re all the way up there so I could never see you properly from down below.” “I knew what you meant. I’m just giving you a hard time. Hey, and you saw me at the gala. You mean I didn’t look handsome that evening?” She smacked me playfully again. “Can I stay here with you then? Or do you want to be alone?” “I’ve had enough alone time to last me more than a lifetime. I won’t guarantee your make-up and hairdo will stay in place if you stay here with 48
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me.” “I can go and freshen up before lunch.” “To be on the safe side, let’s go and sit on the balcony and discuss a wedding date.” Sitting demurely side by side but secretly holding hands where no one could see below the balcony railing, we talked and made plans for the future. We decided on a November wedding. The next day we’d set sail for the Caribbean for a two week honeymoon and we’d be home in time for Christmas. I hadn’t told her that I’d bought our own private island. I wanted it to be a complete surprise, and it would be, as she was quite content and excited with a honeymoon aboard the royal yacht. The island had a dock and air strip in place so we could fly there for getaways if we felt the need, and as time permitted. It had a beautiful house on it with pools. Pearly beaches surrounded it. It was untouched, virginal, and I’d drooled over the photos sent to me via email. It put a big hole in my bank account, but I didn’t care. We’d be the only people on the island, the only access either by plane or sea. I could imagine us going there with our children and enjoying the privacy away from the world and prying eyes, away from the paparazzi. “What are you thinking about?” Katarina rested her head on my shoulder. 49
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“Our honeymoon. Four months will seem like a long time.” She sighed. “I can hardly wait. If it were up to me, we’d quietly get married right now.” “Honey, it’s getting close to that time. You need to go and freshen up and so do I. I’ll see you back here in twenty minutes?” I walked her to the doors and waited as her guards fell in behind her and she walked away. John followed me into the room. “Your Majesty, you may want to put on a fresh shirt and tie.” “Okay, although this one is hardly dirty. I’ve only had it on for a few hours.” I allowed John to take off my jacket, unbutton my shirt, and help me into the fresh shirt, this time one that matched Katarina’s dress in color. I felt touched by his attention to this detail. Even the tie he’d chosen matched her dress. While he fiddle faddled around, I thought about Mahaka and the book and wondered what he’d discovered so far. I decided to learn Latin. It wouldn’t take me long with my photographic memory that had assisted me greatly with my education. I knew everything Paul had learned, but it wasn’t enough for today’s world. So they schooled me all over again from first grade right through college degrees and university. By the time I was sixteen, I was finished with my 50
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education. If I learned Latin, I could read the book myself and find out the secrets it held. That’s if Mahaka ever let it out of his hands again. Katarina returned, looking just as fresh and beautiful as she had earlier. “Lady Goddard,” John greeted her with a slight bow of the head. “I must compliment you on your dress. It’s breathtaking.” “Why thank you, John.” At the luncheon, I announced our wedding date. I noticed a few raised eyebrows, but no one dared say anything until Hans stood, glass of wine in his hand. He raised it. “Your Majesty, Katarina, my wife and I wish to congratulate you on your engagement and we look forward to the coming nuptials and welcoming the king into our family.” All members of parliament stood and raised their glasses, toasting us. I knew it had been hard for Hans to do this and I admired him for it. I read the concerns in his mind, concerns that of course his wife didn’t share because she didn’t know everything. All I read in her mind was excitement that her daughter was marrying the king. I quickly tuned out when too many thoughts started to mingle, some good, some not. I didn’t want to hear the bad ones, especially after I detected one minister thinking about Paul’s reaction. Would it cause Paul to cut his travels short? I was 51
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afraid of it especially knowing of his failure to infiltrate the vampire clans in the USA. By now, the news of our engagement would have gone viral on the internet. The luncheon lasted far into the afternoon. I thought it would never end and felt my heart sink when it was over and everyone gathered in the adjacent room for afternoon cocktails or coffee. I knew we were expected to be there, to mingle with everyone, for Katarina to mingle with the women. I squeezed her hand reassuringly but when she looked up at me and smiled, I knew she had plenty of self-confidence. It was near four when people started to leave. I sought out Katarina, who ended her conversation with one of the ministers’ wives. “Do you want to go?” I asked her. “Yes. I’m exhausted. My parents have already gone, so let’s escape.” “We need to appear on the balcony briefly. The prime minister told me there is quite a crowd gathered outside the front gates.” “Well, that won’t last too long. We’ll wave for a few minutes, smile, and then we can escape.” I didn’t have to wonder about the reaction of the people. When we stepped out on the balcony and waved, a loud cheer broke out. They waved flags, fired off fireworks. All in all, they were one happy crowd. They seemed to approve of my 52
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choice of a bride. We waved for about ten minutes. I took Katarina’s hand in mine, raised our hands and with one final wave to the crowd with my other hand, I hustled her back inside and back to my rooms. I stopped before the doors. “Honey, why don’t you go and get into something more comfortable first and join me for dinner later? Maybe you should rest a while.” “I could stand a long soak in the whirlpool bath. My feet are killing me. Dinner? Who wants to eat after all that food.” I laughed because I was just as full. “Maybe we’ll want a snack later. I’ll tell John.” I squeezed her hand and watched her hurry back to her rooms, then entered my own rooms. I told John to have an evening snack sent to my rooms at around nine and I didn’t want to be disturbed until that time. I needed to relax and unwind myself, but not by having a bath. I was going to escape for a little while. After quickly putting on my make-up and changing into comfortable clothes, I headed for my secret tunnel and freedom. I called out my vampire as soon as the panel slid closed behind me and headed down the steps and into the tunnel. In seconds I stood on the ledge. I headed for the forest and mountains, not 53
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aiming for any particular destination. I merely enjoyed the feeling of freedom, of the wind whistling past my ears as I ran with the speed of lightning, jumped up on high branches, and down again. If anyone would have known that this was my idea of unwinding, they would have declared me crazy. Calling out the vamp in me cured me of all fatigue. I felt invigorated and refreshed. I finally stopped and sat on a branch for a while just studying my surroundings, the beautiful forest and tropical plants, the colorful birds and animals down below hunting for food. While I sat there quietly just soaking up the tranquility, loud twittering of birds snapped me out of it and caused me to be on the alert. Animals down below scurried but not before a pack of wolves appeared and one of them pounced on a deer. Not an ordinary wolf. The beast was very big. Werewolves! I didn’t hesitate for a second and jumped down. It was too late to save the poor deer, but at least the wolf hadn’t attacked a human. So which pack was this? Justin’s or Peter’s? The wolf growled at me, fangs bared. The other wolves hovered behind, their fangs showing. They didn’t attempt to attack me. I heard the big wolf’s thoughts. He appeared to be the leader. 54
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Who the fuck is this? He’s a vampire but doesn’t look like he’s going to attack. Or run. “Peter Taylor?” I asked. He knows who I am? How the hell could he? I heard the wolf growl softly but I knew why. “I’d like to talk to you, Peter.” I watched in awe as muscles popped, bones creaked, and slowly, before my eyes, the wolf turned into a man. He was quite tall and in his mid-thirties. “Do you realize we can’t let you live now that you know who I am?” “Peter, first of all, you don’t stand a chance against me. Secondly, I’ve been wanting to talk to you for a while now. My name is Timothy Lansing. Tim for short.” “If you wanted to talk to me, then why didn’t you just phone me? I’m in the phonebook.” “I was going to. I didn’t expect to run into you here.” The other werewolves still hovered, their noses wrinkled up, soft growls coming from their throats. “We don’t kill people as a rule. Only vampires and other werewolves.” “Yes, I know. Mahaka told me. There are good vampires. Ones who live the same as you, who don’t kill people.” “What’s so special about you that Mahaka 55
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would talk to you? He talks to very few people.” “I have a plan.” “Oh? And that is?” “I’ve had several meetings with Hans Goddard. He is researching an antidote or cure for werewolves and vampires.” Peter laughed loudly. “That’s the funniest line I’ve heard in a long time. Wish him good luck with that.” “Don’t you want to be rid of this curse?” “Not as long as Justin Meyers and his pack are around. They’ve killed or turned many. We try to intervene.” “That’s commendable, but if Hans finds a cure or antidote, it will work for Justin and his pack, too. Hans needs a willing volunteer to give him DNA samples and blood. Are you up to that?” “That means exposing myself. I’m not sure.” “It’s by order of the king.” “And how do I know that?” “I know the king.” “Mm, you have friends in high places. So you’re working with Goddard?” “Yes, I am. He’s already taken my DNA and blood.” “And so far not been successful or you wouldn’t be standing here as a vampire.” “Oh, but I don’t thirst for blood. Neither do I kill by biting or tearing throats.” 56
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“But you do kill?” “Only if I have no choice. If I come across a vampire, or a group of vampires planning to kill someone or turn them, I have no choice. I have different means of doing away with them.” “Can you explain?” “No. Attack me, and you’d find out. Although I don’t really want to kill you or any of your pack.” Peter looked unsure. He glanced back at the other werewolves and told them to change. I watched, spellbound, while each wolf changed into a naked human. Some were females, others males. Because my hearing was so intensified in my vamp form, I heard every sound of their stretching muscles, their popping bones. It was eerie. “You heard his words. What do you think? Do we want a cure or antidote?” Peter asked his pack. “Peter, what I’ve just told you is top secret. It cannot leak out or it would put Hans’s life in danger.” A man stepped up, younger than Peter. “I’d like to lose it, especially the urge to kill something, anything. Like the deer you just caught. It goes against my human nature. I’m willing to give blood and DNA.” “Thank you, Clayton. What about the rest of you?” They looked at each other, completely unsure, 57
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until a female stepped up. She was an older woman, at least in her forties, still very attractive. “I agree with Peter. If we lose our abilities, we can’t stop Justin and his pack.” “But what about if you all can infiltrate that pack and administer the antidote or cure? That would stop all the senseless killings,” I told her. “Hans must be on the right path if you don’t have the urge to kill or the thirst for blood,” another of the pack cried out. “I’d say we go for it, Peter.” “If you don’t want to kill, then why do you still hunt?” I asked. “When the urge becomes too great, we go out as a pack and hunt for wild animals,” Peter said. “How do I get in touch with you?” I told him my cell number. He repeated it several times and nodded. “I’ll call you. We have to go now. The deer happened upon our path and the need was great. Don’t worry. We’ll come back and skin it and it’ll be meat for our freezers.” I smiled. “I’ll wait for your call and I’ll tell Hans you’re willing to cooperate with him.” Veins swelled, muscles popped, bones crunched and creaked, and within a minute the pack of werewolves stood before me. Peter, the leader, came up to me and rubbed his head against my thigh. I patted his head. It felt weird because I knew I was patting a man’s head. 58
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Chapter Seven Katarina’s
dresser did her justice. Each outfit Heather chose for her was exquisite, complimenting her blonde hair and especially her unusual eyes. Right now, she took my breath away as she walked toward me, ready and dressed for our official engagement ball and her twenty-first birthday celebration. “You truly are a queen, my darling,” I told her. “You look positively stunning.” She smiled. “Thanks. The only one I care to stun is you.” “You’ll stun every man in the ballroom, and all the women will be green with envy.” Her dress was of the finest satin and quite form fitting, yet very elegant. Its color was almost the same as her eyes, slowly changing to a deeper hue to finally end in the deep blue of the sea along the hem. The hem was studded with small gems to match the embroidery down the shoulders. The dress was 59
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strapless, scooping down just enough to show faint swelling of her breasts. A long slit up the side showed off her beautiful leg. The shoes matched the dress. I’d asked the dresser not to have her wear any jewelry. I took the velvet, flat box out of my pocket, opened it and handed it to her. “Happy birthday, darling.” Katarina stared at the content. “Oooh, it’s absolutely gorgeous. When did you have time to buy it?” “Sweetheart, the jeweler comes to the palace. I asked the dresser the color of your gown and he showed me matching jewelry.” “It’s exquisite. The stones match my dress perfectly.” And the necklace and earrings with matching bracelet did match. Several different color topaz in the same colors as her dress with surrounding diamonds. I clasped the necklace around her neck and waited while she put on the earrings and bracelet. She was picture perfect. Her hair hung mostly loose down her back with only the sides pulled back into a braid. I tucked her arm through mine and smiled down at her as we started toward the ballroom. “I’m so proud of you,” I told her. “Josh, do you think my oldest sister could stay with me at the castle until we get married? Once I 60
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leave your rooms, I feel quite lonely. After always having lived at home and being from a fairly large family, it’s too quiet in my rooms.” “Yes, of course. It will be nice for to have your sister with you.” “Joslyn can share my bed. It’s not like we haven’t slept together before and the bed is huge.” I was tempted to tell her that I was jealous and would prefer she share my bed, but since there were too many ears around, I kept my mouth shut. As we entered the ballroom, the band struck up the happy birthday song. I glanced at Katarina and saw her pink cheeks. I felt her tremble a little. Her arm was hooked through mine so I covered her hand with my other hand. Nodding and smiling we headed for the royal table. I had requested, now that Hans carried a title, that he and his family be seated at our table. I felt suddenly very grateful, because not only had I found my soul mate fast, she had a wonderful family that would become mine. For the first time in my life I would know what it felt like to be a member of a large family, what it was like to have a real family Christmas. For a moment I thought about my lonely Christmas days. Sure, Derek would visit me and always bring me a gift, but Christmas dinner, I sat alone at my table watching TV while I ate. It had made me angry at times if I 61
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watched a Christmas movie and it was about families. So I preferred to watch a good science fiction movie. My longing for normality had finally become real. After dinner we sat through too many speeches that bored us to tears. “I wish we could dance,” Katarina said softly. “It’s all taking so long.” “Welcome to the world of royalty, honey,” I whispered back. Hans was the last one to speak. Thankfully, his speech wasn’t long. He welcomed me to the family and wished his daughter a happy birthday and returned to his chair. The band started playing. I stood, held my hand out to Katarina who stood and joined me and we headed for the dance floor. We started off with a waltz. Once we were on the floor, other couples joined us. “Phew, am I glad this part of the evening is over,” Katarina said. “Dinner was delicious but the speeches, man alive!” “Boring huh?” “To say the least.” “You’ve got no idea how many people are watching us, mainly you. Many of the men envy me right now.” “And you know that how? Are you reading minds again? And I guess you haven’t seen the envious women’s eyes glaring at me.” 62
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“Hell no. I’d go crazy hearing all the thoughts. All I have to do is look at the faces of the younger men and how they look at you.” “Maybe they’re looking at both of us?” “No, hon. It’s you. You’re so breathtakingly beautiful. I don’t blame them at all. I feel very proud to be your affianced.” The music changed and I pulled her closer against me. She rested her head against my shoulder and I leaned down against the top of her head. For a moment I concentrated on Paul, and to my consternation, caught his thoughts clearly. I can’t believe the whelp is going to marry that little commoner bitch. From what I’ve read in the news, the people are growing far too fond of him. We need to concentrate more on Silverwarren before I set my eyes on the world. It’s time to go home and put a stop to his popularity. If I get rid of the girl, that’ll change his happy, good boy attitude. I quickly closed my mind but I knew I had to try and listen to his thoughts often so I knew his plans. I was even more fearful for Katarina now. I was going to have to stop her from going out by herself, or order more guards for her. My head ached with worry. I couldn’t confide this to her, or to Hans. I had to keep it to myself. The prime minister pulled us away from the dance floor by telling us that the palace photographer was waiting to take official photos. “More photos?” Katarina asked. 63
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“Yes, Lady Goddard,” he answered. “The other photos taken on the day of your engagement were for public purposes. These photos are for the palace portraits.” It didn’t take that long. We hurried back to the ballroom and the dance floor. “I will have to dance with some of the ladies,” I told Katarina. “And you’ll need to dance with some of the men.” “Do we have to?” “I’m afraid so.” I saw her sigh and wanted nothing but to kiss her right there and then, but public display of affection was a no. When the music stopped, I led her back to her seat and asked Joslyn to dance. I was no sooner on the floor when I saw several men heading Katarina’s way. Many of the older guests left before midnight and the band struck up music more suitable for the younger guests. I had no clue at first with some of the dance steps, but it didn’t take me long to pick up the tempo and copy the other dancers, and I had quite a few more-than-happy teachers. I made sure to grab Katarina each time there was a slow dance. Near two in the morning very few guests were left so we said our goodbyes and headed for our rooms. Before I let Katarina go to her rooms, I pulled her inside mine and closed the door. I clasped her to me and kissed her with all the pride and 64
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passion I felt, then cupped her face with both hands. “Sweetheart, I was so proud of you tonight. Promise me something? If anything ever frightens you during the night, come to my rooms?” “What makes you say that? You’re scaring me. There’s something you’re not telling me. I feel it.” “I just want you to know I’m always here for you. I can’t wait until we’re married and have you with me always.” “You don’t have to wait. I’ve told you that many times.” “Honey, I love you more than you can imagine. No, we’ll wait until our wedding night no matter how much I wish I could carry you to my bed right now. Talking about beds, I bet your feet are killing you, and mine don’t feel much better. Time to rest.” I kissed her long and hard and when her tongue entered my mouth and explored she sucked my tongue into hers. Oh I was so tempted, but I didn’t give in to temptation. I reluctantly pulled away from her lips and whispered against them, “Goodnight, sweet princess.” I walked her to her rooms, opened the door and waited until she entered before closing the door. I yanked my clothes off while walking to the bed and lay on the bed naked, my need to ease my aching sack great. After I came, I lay staring up at the ceiling for a 65
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while thinking about Katarina, when Paul’s thoughts interfered. What’s the best way to get rid of the girl? Maybe a bomb. The same way I made my escape. I’ve got a man or two working in the palace garages. After I arrive on Monday I’ll set my plan in motion. Horror beset me now. First thing in the morning I had to go to the garages and see if I could scent Paul’s minions. That’s if he was on duty on a Sunday. I’d visit the garages daily until I sniffed him out.
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Chapter Eight The
chauffeurs came on duty at eight in the morning, John told me. I dismissed him and told him I’d be back soon. His raised eyebrows didn’t escape me. When I left my rooms dressed in jogging gear, my guards fell in behind me. I told them not to accompany me. They didn’t dare argue. I hurried out of the castle and to the garages. There were two chauffeurs on duty. Both were polishing the limousines. They startled when I approached, bowed deeply, and then stood back looking uncertain. They probably wondered why I was there. “Your names?” I asked. “Charles Bowen, Your Majesty,” the tallest of the two told me. The older one looked very intimidated. “Paul Tendrill, Your Majesty.” “How many other chauffeurs are there?” 67
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I found out there were four more full time chauffeurs and quite a few on call. “What about mechanics?” “Your Majesty, they only work during the week, but they’re on call on weekends.” I’d already determined that neither of these men was a vampire. I would come back the next day to meet the mechanics and the other chauffeurs. The vampires had to be full time chauffeurs or mechanics. “It was nice meeting you both. You’re doing a great job. Keep it up,” I said, and left the garages. Breakfast was ready for me when I returned to my rooms so I quickly ate. After I finished eating, I told John I needed to speak with the captain of the royal guard, preferably before we left for church. Again the raised eyebrows, but I knew he wouldn’t question me. I could hear his wondering thoughts and smiled. Another thought occurred to me. Were any of the royal guard vampires? I needed to meet all of them. I rushed through my shower, sat through my shaving ritual and told John I’d dress myself. “Your Majesty, Captain Jeremy Steinberg is waiting for you in your office.” The captain clapped his heels together and saluted me. “Captain Steinberg, walk with me. I want to meet the guards.” Captain Steinberg was clean, thankfully. I 68
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hoped the guards were clean, too, but by meeting them, I could handpick the ones I wanted stationed at the garages. We walked to the towers and the captain introduced me to his men. Quite a few of them were in casual clothes because they were not on duty today. Most were awed at the king appearing in their living quarters. I scented two vampires among them and wondered if they were the good kind. There were five garages, so I picked ten men. After I’d picked them, I pulled the captain aside. “Captain Steinberg, this is top secret so I need your assurance that this will go no further.” “Your Majesty, of course.” “I have received a bomb threat aimed at Lady Goddard. I need you to station the guards I picked outside the garages, day and night. I also need the limousines and cars all checked for bombs, from top to bottom, inside out, every day.” “Your Majesty, I need to inform General Smidt of this and involve the army.” “No. We’ll deal with it ourselves. There is a spy working in the garages, either one of the chauffeurs or mechanics. I’ve checked out the two chauffeurs on duty today. They’re fine. All need to be closely watched. You can tell the men I picked and have them swear not to talk to anyone about this.” 69
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“Yes, Your Majesty.” His heels clicked and he saluted. “Thank you.” I left and hurried back to the castle where I found Katarina waiting for me in my rooms. “Morning, sweetheart. Are you rested? How are your feet?” “Still a bit sore. Yes, I slept like a log. Where did you go?” “Oh, I had to deal with some business,” I lied. Well, it wasn’t really a lie. I just couldn’t tell her what kind of business. “On a Sunday?” I kissed her on the cheek. “Yes. A king sometimes has official things to take care of on a Sunday. Are you ready for church?” “It’ll feel weird going to church with you and sitting in the royal pews up above while my family is down below.” “Honey, if you’d rather we sit with your family, then we’ll do so.” “No, it’s okay. I’d best get used to it now.” “Matter of fact, I think it’s better that we sit down below. I’ve seen other royals attend churches at wedding ceremonies and I didn’t see them sitting in a special pew. They sat in the front of the church on the first pew. I think we’ll do the same and your family will sit with us, until the chapel has been renovated. Once it’s completed, 70
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we can send a car for your family and if they want of course, they can attend church with us there. We still have to attend special services in the big church, like the Christmas candlelight service and Christmas morning, and there will be other services.” “I’ve told my sister the good news that she can stay at the castle with me and she was so excited. My parents are bringing her this afternoon.” “That’s great, honey. Maybe they can have dinner with us? How about you ask them at church?” We left my rooms and before we headed down the hallway I told John, “John, I’m having guests for dinner tonight. Please have them set the table for seven more people?” We got into the limo, and as I slid in beside Katarina, she said, “You’re presuming my parents will accept the invitation.” “I hope they will. I want to spend a lot of time with them. Your sisters and brothers will become mine as well. For the first time in my life I’ll know what it’s like to be part of a family.” “I can’t imagine what it must have been like for you growing up without any family at all.” “There are orphans who grow up without a family.” “Yes, but at least they’re placed in foster care so they grow up in a family atmosphere. You had no 71
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one really.” “Yes, but I’m fast making up for that,” I said, grinning at her. “My brothers are going to be so thrilled since they were too young to attend the functions at the palace. You haven’t even met them.” “Yes, I thought of that. It’s ridiculous. I’m marrying the woman I love and I only know some of her family and not even that well except for Hans. I have yet to meet your brothers and one sister.” After the service, Katarina waited for her parents to come out of church and she quickly ran to them. I followed her at a slower pace. “Mom, Dad, Josh would like you all to join us for dinner tonight at the palace. Say you’ll come?” I saw Hans look at his wife. “Sarah, it’s up to you.” “Can one decline an invitation from the king?” She noticed me behind Katarina and looked startled and bowed. “Your Majesty, I didn’t mean—” “Sarah, it’s alright. Yes, you can decline. I haven’t met Katarina’s youngest sister and brothers, and I’d really love for us all to get together on a regular basis. And for goodness sake, my name is Joshua. Please, treat me like an ordinary man?” “Your Ma… Joshua,” she stuttered. “We’d be 72
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happy to accept.” “Great. What’s your favorite? Tell me and I’ll have the chef prepare it.” “Burgers and fries,” a young voice suddenly said. “Hello there. And who might you be?” I asked the teenage lad. “I’m Mark and that guy running around chasing the girls over there is my brother Darrell.” “Mark, it’ll be fantastic to have younger brothers. I’ll take you two fishing, hiking, guy stuff.” “Really?” Sarah spoke up. “Mark, address the king properly.” “Sarah, he can call me Joshua. He’s going to be my brother.” It was strange to see Katarina among her family because they were all dark haired and had brown eyes. It was almost as if she was adopted. “Josh, this is my little sister Danielle. We call her Danny.” “Hi, Danny. How old are you?” “I’m sixteen.” “Wow, I really will have a large family now. I’m afraid Katarina will have to take you and your sisters to do special women only activities, but I’m looking forward to picnics together as a family.” I opened my mind to Sarah’s thoughts and 73
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heard her surprised reaction. He’s not at all stuck up. He acts like an ordinary man, as if he’s one of us. I’ve really taken to this lad. I think Katarina has made a good choice. Not so much that he’s the king, but I truly like him. I beamed at that. “Why are you grinning from ear to ear?” Katarina asked. “Oh, just internal amusement. Not aimed at your family, my dear. Something funny entered my mind.” “Oh. And you can’t share?” “Eh…no.” She was embarrassing me at that point. I shifted uncomfortably on my feet. “We should go. Lunch will be ready and your sister is coming after lunch.” We said our goodbyes and hurried to the waiting limo. “I’m sorry for making you uncomfortable. What was so amusing? Can you tell me now?” Katarina asked. “Yes. I caught a fragment of your mother’s thoughts. She thinks I’m not at all stuck up. That’s what made me grin.” “Oh. I’ll keep my mouth shut in the future. You promised not to read minds anymore.” “Yours. I didn’t say I wouldn’t listen to anyone else’s thoughts. You have a wonderful family, my love. I’m so happy to become one of them. And have I told you yet how much I love you and how 74
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beautiful you look again?” “Never stop telling me,” she said, smiling. We sat in the limo sedately. As always, the paparazzi were outside the palace gates, cameras ready. Would they ever get tired of taking pictures of us? Before we entered my rooms I told John to tell the chef to be sure to have hamburgers and fries on the menu that evening. I laughed at his expression. “My family will be here for dinner tonight. Three of them are teenagers.” “Of course, Your Majesty.” The poor guy was on duty all the time unless I dismissed him. “John, take the rest of the day off. Go and do something fun.” “Thank you, Your Majesty.” Lunch didn’t take us that long, and after we finished eating, I stood and directed Katarina off her chair and over to the bed. “You’ll muss up my outfit and hair,” she muttered. “Ah, don’t start that. I want to hold you and kiss you and kiss you again. You’ll be busy with your sister for most of the afternoon. But that’s okay, there are things I have to do anyway. Oh, and remember, Mahaka is meeting with us.” “What time?” “He never said. He also didn’t tell me how he was getting here. He’ll probably come some time 75
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this afternoon knowing that I go to church. I’ll send someone for you when he arrives.” We spent some time loving and kissing on the bed until Katarina looked at her watch. “My sister is going to be here in five minutes. I’d best go.” Reluctantly, I let go of her and watched while she straightened her dress and ran to the mirror to brush her hair and fix her make-up. I walked her to the doors and kissed her on the tip of her nose. “I’ll see you in a bit.” Mahaka arrived at the castle at three. Not without a fuss. A guard banged on my door and when I opened it he said, “Your Majesty, the sorcerer Mahaka is demanding entrance to the castle. King Paul gave orders—” “Mahaka can have entry to the castle whenever he wants. I’m king now and Paul’s orders are rescinded. Bring him to my quarters immediately.” I sent one of my guards for Katarina while I waited for Mahaka. To my surprise, the old man was dressed in a suit. He had tied his hair back and his beard was rolled up. He looked nothing like the Mahaka I’d met in the mountains. “Welcome, Mahaka. Have you eaten? Would you like me to order some food for you?” I greeted him when he entered my rooms. “You may leave,” I told the guard. “Thank you. I’ve already eaten. Where is 76
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Katarina?” “I’ve sent for her. She’ll be here in a minute. While we wait, did you find anything interesting in the book?” “Yes. I’ll talk to you about that another time. Right now I need to speak with Katarina.” He fell silent and I knew better than to ask more questions. It didn’t take long before Katarina arrived. “Joslyn is busy unpacking her suitcases. I told her she can dig into my extended wardrobe any time she wants to,” she told me as she entered. The old man stood and faced Katarina. “Katarina, meet Mahaka.” The man’s face showed no emotion, but his eyes looked very watery. Or was that my imagination? Why would Mahaka be emotional over meeting my future queen? Katarina had changed into jeans and a t-shirt. This was the way I liked to see her. Sure, she looked gorgeous in the beautiful dresses, but this was my natural woman, the one I fell in love with. “Mahaka, I’ve heard much about you from my grandmother,” she said and held out her hand. Mahaka clasped it between both of his. “Katarina, my dear. I’ve waited for this day all these years.” “Joshua told me. My question is, why?” “Let us sit and I will tell you.” We sat in the easy chairs and I poured a glass of 77
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wine for us from the decanter on the coffee table. We waited for Mahaka to start talking. Mahaka sipped the wine, then started. “Katarina, when your parents were first married, your mother couldn’t conceive. Your father and mother sought help and your mother was artificially inseminated. But it wasn’t with your father’s sperm. It was mine. You are my daughter.” He couldn’t have dropped a bigger bomb. It was a shock to me, but an even bigger shock for Katarina who sat like stone. “I needed an heir, someone who would inherit my abilities. That child, son or daughter, would start manifesting their powers after their twentyfirst birthday.” Her voice had a tremor in it. “You mean my father isn’t really my father?” “Child, he’s been your father from the day you were born. I’m not aiming to take his place. I wasn’t in any position to raise a child, therefore, I chose this method of passing on my powers.” “You’re telling me that I’m a sorceress?” “Yes, but don’t be afraid. I will teach you everything you need to know.” Katarina laughed hysterically. “I’m marrying a vampire and now you’re telling me I’m a sorceress? I’m going to wake up from this nightmare.” 78
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“Katarina, my dear, I know this is a shock for you. Please remember, you can’t tell anyone. Only Joshua and you can know. Your mother never knew that your father’s sperm sample was swapped for mine.” “My mother had the other five kids normally. Why would she look for help for her first?” “I suppose she was impatient to have a baby and Derek was good friends with your father.” I moved closer to Katarina and grabbing her hand, I squeezed it. “This is all too much. I don’t feel any different.” “Haven’t you ever wondered why your siblings all look so different?” “I take after my grandmother.” “No, not really. You look a lot like me in my younger days, and to prove it, I brought along an image of myself before I became very old and wrinkled.” He dug in his jacket pocket and produced several pictures. They were old and faded from what I could see from where I sat. Mahaka handed them to Katarina. “These pictures don’t tell me much. They’re too old and not in color.” “Close your eyes. You too, Joshua.” We did as we were told and heard Mahaka chanting something. I don’t know what Katarina saw but suddenly a young man appeared in my 79
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mind. I saw him as if I were looking at him in real life. He looked no older than twenty. He had very blond hair, wavy, and the same sea foam green eyes. I saw the clear resemblance. My Katarina was a female version of young Mahaka. The vision faded. “It took a lot of energy to help you to see that. Now do you believe me, girl?” Katarina’s eyes were still closed. I watched a tear trickle down her cheek. Suddenly, her eyelids snapped open. “It’s hard for me to digest that my father is not my real dad.” “Katarina, I always want you to regard him as your real father. He’s been your father all these years. Nothing has changed that way. Only Joshua, you, and I know the truth.” “My mother doesn’t know either?” “No, she doesn’t, and I don’t want her to,” Mahaka said. “I don’t think I want to be a sorceress and live to a thousand years or more.” “Your destiny is in your own hands. Don’t forget, you’re marrying an immortal. You can be immortal with him without Joshua having to turn you. You can also help him in his quest.” She was very quiet for a long time. So was Mahaka, and I silently waited. “Joshua asked my father to look for a cure. When he’s cured, he’ll no longer be immortal. 80
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That means I’d outlive him for eons.” “Joshua doesn’t want the cure for himself. He wants to rid the world of vampires, werewolves and demons, to stop the murders. He can only do that if he retains his abilities and powers. My DNA also flows through his blood.” “You’ve got to be kidding. How is that going to affect our children?” “It won’t. Don’t fear. One of your children will inherit your powers. The eldest. Be it a son or daughter.” “When will my powers begin?” “They are already at work within you. That’s why I need to see you often so I can teach you, to put it in modern language, the tricks of the trade. Now that you’re living in the palace, your days are idle. No more working as a nurse. You have plenty of time and I will come to see you every day. You are now my apprentice.” “I need time to digest all this.” “Of course.” “What do I call you? I won’t disown the father I’ve known since birth.” “You call me Mahaka. I told you. I have no intentions of taking your father’s place. I will take my leave of you now and head back home. I will come back in a few days.” I walked Mahaka to the doors and quickly returned to Katarina. I took her into my arms and 81
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she cried quietly. I let her cry until she was ready to speak. “Now I know why he wanted to meet me the day after my birthday.” “Yes. It’s a complete surprise to me, too. I can’t read Mahaka’s mind at all.” She looked up at me then. “You mean that now you can’t read mine either?” A watery grin lit her face a bit. “I don’t know. He’s probably got the ability to turn it off. Maybe that’s where I got it from. I can turn it off whenever I want, and no one else can red my mind. You will have to learn everything.” “Josh, this has blown me away. I can’t even talk to Mom about it.” “No. Your mother doesn’t know any different or that she was inseminated with your father’s sperm.” “I don’t feel like going back to my rooms. My sister will ask questions. I told her I was going to meet Mahaka.” “I wish you hadn’t told her, but never mind. You can tell her that he just wished to meet the future queen.” “I’m scared.” “Of the powers you’ve inherited?” “Yes.” “Don’t be. Mahaka will teach you well. There’s one positive thing about all of this, you’ll live 82
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alongside me for hundreds of years. Think you can put up with me that long?” “I suppose I’d best get back to my rooms and help my sister unpack the rest of her things. Josh, I need to digest this and I wish I could be alone for a while, but now I can’t.” “No, I’m sorry, honey. Go back and help your sister and let’s try and have a happy family gathering?” “Okay,” she said in a small voice. “I love you. Do you still love me even though I’m a sorceress?” I laughed. “Sweetheart, I think it’s rather enticing, and in a way, exciting. You wanted me to turn you so you could be at my side and fight the cause with me. Now you have your wish.”
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Chapter Nine Katarina had phoned her family and asked them
to dress casual, so when they arrived and her siblings were dressed in jeans and casual shirts, it was no surprise to me. Sarah wore dress pants and a nice top, and Hans, dress jeans and a nice shirt. I felt really good to see them all sitting around the large dining table in my private dining room. When the servants brought in dinner, I was gratified to see platters of fries and hamburgers. The other items on the menu were chicken cordon bleu, mashed potatoes, baby potatoes, a fish dish, thinly sliced roast, and a medley of vegetables. There were several different gravy dishes, a salad and garlic bread. It was quite a feast, and something there for everyone’s taste. I dismissed the servants and let everyone dish up for themselves. The younger generation needed no prodding. They dug into the platter of fries and hamburgers in no time and started 84
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munching away when Hans spoke. “Let’s join hands first. Kids, stop it. You know better than that.” He said a prayer, and after he finished the chomping down of food resumed. “Sorry, Joshua. We always pray before we eat, even if we’re at a restaurant. Being in the king’s presence makes no difference.” “It’s okay. I wasn’t brought up that way.” I had to be very careful what I said so that his wife and children wouldn’t catch on to anything they weren’t supposed to know. I noticed Katarina wasn’t quite herself and I knew why. I wish I could have sat next to her, but she sat between her two sisters. “So, guys, tell me more about yourself. What sports are you interested in? What are your best subjects at school? What do you do in your spare time?” It didn’t take long for me to get everyone talking and laughing. It felt so good. Even Katarina joined in telling stories about the past and laughed on occasion. I think it helped get her mind off what she’d learned that day. So this was what a family was all about. I had to smile at the teenagers’ antics, their banter, and how father and mother handled it. Was this what real family life was? Were they being themselves? I hoped so. I wanted so much for us to be a real 85
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family. Hans very much acted like himself, at least what I knew of him. Sarah was a bit stiff. I think she still felt intimidated, as did Joslyn and Danielle, but the younger ones sure as hell weren’t intimidated. They’d finished their dinner and dessert and were getting quite rambunctious so I showed them my games. They were excited when they saw the huge TV screen and the shelves filled with game boxes. I left them to play and returned to the table. Sarah finally started to loosen up a bit while we talked. I noticed that Katarina was very quiet and she kept glancing at her father. What Mahaka had disclosed earlier was bothering her. I think she was glad when her parents finally said it was time to go home, under much protest from their brood. “You can come back any time,” I promised them. “And I haven’t forgotten my promise, to take you fishing and hiking.” I was really going to enjoy having two young brothers. Joslyn excused herself. “This was great, guys. I’m really tired. Mind if I go to your rooms, Sis?” “Go ahead. I won’t be long behind you. I’m still tired from last night,” Katarina told her. “Finally alone,” I said as the door closed, and took her in my arms. I held her quietly then steered her to the bedroom and my bed. She crawled up on the bed and I lay beside her. 86
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“You’ve been very quiet all evening. Mahaka’s revelations are still bothering you I guess.” “Yes, of course. It hasn’t left my mind. For you it’s different. You knew from when you were very young how your life started. It is a huge shock for me to find out the father I’ve known and loved all these years isn’t really my father.” “Honey, he is your father in every sense of the word. Mahaka was merely the sperm donor.” Sitting up suddenly, she raised her hand. “Yeah, and that sperm donor also donated powers to go with his donation. And when do these powers manifest themselves? Do I need a magic wand? Leaning on my elbow, I watched the angry sparks in her eyes. “Or maybe I can just snap my fingers, and poof, all those candles are lit in a second!” she almost shouted the words, and snapped her fingers several times. Her arm sank down slowly when suddenly every candle in the room lit up. “I guess you don’t need that magic wand,” I said, trying to make her smile. “I’d best be careful. You’ll snap your fingers, and poof, I’m a frog.” “Oh, man, this is spine-chilling,” she muttered while looking at her fingers. “Yet fascinating.” “We’ll have to let Mahaka know.” “How? He doesn’t have a phone, you said.” 87
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“I can get there quite fast. Why don’t you join your sister and I’ll go and see Mahaka. I’ll knock on your door when I get back. Remember, not a word about this to anyone, not even Hans.” “Especially my father. He’d be so hurt if he knew. He’d be devastated.” “Exactly.” “I guess that kind of makes me a witch huh?” I laughed. “The most beautiful witch walking this planet.” “You’re making fun of me, but I’m dead serious.” “I know you are, honey, but I’m just trying to lighten your mood. Who knows what other damage you can do if you become angry enough. Until you learn and find out what abilities you have, you’d best try and stay calm.” “I’m calm again. Okay, you go and see Mahaka. I’ll be anxious to find out what he tells you.” “Tell you what, it’s already late. Why don’t you just go to sleep and I’ll tell you in the morning.” She smacked me. “You would say something like that.” After kissing me, she left my rooms. I called out my vamp and hurried to the secret panel and through the tunnel to the ledge. I sped through the forests, and finally up Mahaka’s mountain. Would he still be up? The wolves growled when they heard my approach, but soon as they smelled my scent they quieted 88
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and rubbed against my legs. They suddenly sprang to the alert when a loud distant howl echoed from below. Was there a werewolf pack on the hunt? Mahaka, once again wearing his old robes, greeted me at the entrance. “Young Joshua, why are you here so late?” “Sorry for disturbing you at this hour, but I need to talk to you.” “About Katarina.” “Yes.” “Follow me.” Many candles lit the cavern. Mahaka sat behind his stone table, the book I’d brought him open with a magnifying glass lying on top. “I’ve spent many hours studying this book. Go ahead and talk, Joshua.” “Question first. What is so special about the book that it had to be locked away?” “The book contains many evil spells. Magic that could destroy mankind. In the wrong hands, it is a powerful weapon. In the right hands, it can be used for the good of mankind.” “Have you learned anything else from it so far?” “Yes. The book by itself is of no use to any sorcerer, wizard or witch. The one that wrote it talks of a small, glowing statue. The statue contains a megaton of raw energy.” 89
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“Where is the statue?” “It was stolen and hidden. It talks in here of the highest mountain in the world.” “That would be Mount Everest.” “Yes, a most dangerous mountain to climb.” “For most. I bet I could climb it.” “Many have died trying and some have succeeded. The weather can be treacherous and it is very cold. The air is thin.” “That wouldn’t bother a vampire.” “No, it wouldn’t. But even if you climbed it, how would you locate the icon?” “Maybe you’ll find more clues in the book.” “Perhaps. Now tell me why you came to me so soon.” “Katarina has started to manifest powers. She became angry, and without realizing lit all the candles in my room.” “Ah ha, that means it becomes very urgent I work with her. It also means her powers are very strong. I had not expected this so quickly.” “What will she be capable of?” “She will be able to cast spells, good spells, if she knows the correct incantations. Illusions are part of her capabilities, to create a diversion by manifesting an illusion. If her powers are this strong already, she will be able to change a person into a cockroach with a blink of her eyelids. Fire is one of her weapons. The energy ball you 90
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manifested is also one of her weapons. She’ll be able to stop a vampire, werewolf and witch in their tracks. And she can cast spells against demons, against the beings from the underworld. There is only one that could challenge her and possibly best her. He lives in Europe and is an ancient wizard. I’ve heard he also has an apprentice now. His name is Nyshin and his apprentice’s name is Pollurn.” “Is he a good wizard or sorcerer? It’s the same isn’t it? A wizard or sorcerer?” “No, Nyshin is not a good wizard. Yes, the title means the same. It just depends what people have labeled us. Nyshin has done more harm than good. But I have bested him in my younger years and he knew then and knows now to stay well away from me. Like me, he is ready to retire from the world of sorcery and spells. We will face each other once again in the Tweenzone where our ultimate retirement will be decided.” “The Tweenzone?” “The place where we dwell until the almighty creator judges us.” “It sounds ominous.” “It is not a place I look forward to, but alas, we must all go there before we move on.” “You mean sorcerers or wizards and witches, too?” “All magical beings, and that includes 91
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werewolves and vampires.” “Wow, that must be some kind of place.” I imagined it in my mind, a fiery burning hell crawling with all kind of magical or demonic creatures. “Demons go directly to the black pit. They do not enter the Tweenzone.” He’d answered my thought. “What do I tell Katarina?” “I must have a private place I can use to teach her. The tower has been locked for many years. With your permission, I will gather my belongings and move into the tower.” “I haven’t been to the tower yet. There is still a lot for me to explore. Yes, you have my permission. I’ll get the keys to the tower in the morning.” “The tower was locked by King Thelgar many many years ago. The queen was imprisoned in the tower until her death. The poor woman was insane, or so the tale goes, but I knew different. She was possessed by evil and the king wouldn’t allow me to intercede. Queen Sayada committed suicide.” “If it has been locked for so many years, I’m sure it’s got a foot of dust in it and spiders galore. I’ll have it cleaned up for you.” “No. No one must know I’m there. You can provide me with food and necessities.” 92
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“But Mahaka, how can I go trotting about the castle carrying a load of food or materials you need?” “Have you investigated the rest of the tunnels that run within the walls of the castle? Of course not. Your only thought was of escape to freedom. You’ll find that one of the tunnels leads to the tower. Have you gone to the library yet? The secret room? In that room you will find a map of all the tunnels and passages.” I had to admit that though I had the keys now, I had not gone to the library or the locked room in it. “I will come to the castle at noon tomorrow. You must have found the way to the tower by then and have it ready for me. When I get there, you’ll lead me to it. I’ll need to spend as much time with Katarina as possible. Now go and leave me to my reading.” I was dismissed. Mahaka had already lifted the magnifying glass, his head bowed low over the book. “Goodnight, Mahaka,” I murmured and quickly left the grotto. There was nothing on the calendar the next morning. First thing after I awoke, I’d go and find the tower. I petted the wolves and told them to stay when they started to follow me. I hurried down the mountain and through the 93
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forests at my highest speed. Katarina would be waiting for me. The panel closed behind me and I let my vamp out, then walked calmly to the door. It was one in the morning now. I hurried to Katarina’s door and knocked. She opened it almost immediately. “Ssh, Joslyn is asleep.” “That’s okay. We’ll go and talk in my rooms.” Her guards’ faces remained like stone, but I’m sure their minds worked overtime, as did my guards’ minds. Gossip would fly that day. The door closed and Katarina asked right away. “So, did you see him?” “Yes, I did. He was quite surprised to see me this late.” “Was he still awake?” “Yes, he was reading the book.” “So, tell me? What did he say?” “He says it’s imperative he starts teaching you immediately, that your powers are stronger than he suspected and manifested fast. He is moving into the castle tomorrow, but secretly. He’ll be living in the tower.” “Oh oh, the tower where that queen killed herself? There’s a legend about that.” “Yes. Mahaka says that there are passages within the castle walls that lead to the tower. There is a map in the secret room in the library. I’ll go there first thing in the morning to get it and 94
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then I’ll find the way to the tower. No one must know he’s there. We have to provide him with what he needs and food.” “Josh, there is no toilet in there, no shower, nothing.” “Dang, I wonder if he realizes that. He can come and shower here, that’s if the passage runs off the secret tunnel. Maybe there’s another panel. I’ll find out in the morning.” “But what about his bodily functions? A chamber pot?” “I guess so. I can’t see him coming here every time he needs to go pee. I blocked the entrance to the prince’s room. I’ll investigate in the morning. Mahaka was surprised that your abilities had already started to manifest.” “While you were gone, I lay on top of the bed thinking about it and it’s really quite fascinating and terrifying at the same time.” “I fell in love with a witch and didn’t even know it,” I said and laughed. “Maybe that’s why we are soul mates and destined to be together.” I took her into my arms and held her tightly against my chest. “I think you’re right,” I murmured before kissing her deeply. “And now, my love, you need to go to bed. It’s very late and by the sounds of it, you’ve got a lot of work ahead of you. What will you tell your sister?” 95
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“She’s got to work, remember?” “Right. Stupid of me. I’ll walk you back to your rooms.” Another quick kiss and then I took her back to her quarters. I hurried back to mine and took my clothes off. It had been an eventful day. I concentrated on Paul for a moment but his thoughts were silent. Something occurred to me. Mahaka said that Katarina would be powerful. Between the two of us, we would be undefeatable. Closing my mind, I felt myself drift off.
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Chapter Ten I awoke
at five. After quickly showering and getting dressed, I gulped down a glass of orange juice and hurried to the library. I didn’t care that the guards followed me. I told them to wait outside the library. Since I’d obtained the keys, I hadn’t had the urge to investigate the library. I looked with awe at the shelves of leather bound volumes, thousands of them. At the very back there was an ornate oak door. Beautiful carvings graced it. The key to the door was the largest one on the ring. The lock didn’t turn easily. It was evident no one had been in that room in many years. When it finally gave way and I heard the click; I turned the knob and pushed. The door creaked as it opened on its unused hinges, dry after so many years. The room was very small. I’d almost call it a closet. There was no window but a huge, fat candle stood on a table. A large box of matches sat 97
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next to it. I lit the candle and waited for the flame to light the room. Shelves lined three walls and on them were scrolls. I sighed. Where would I find the map or blueprint of the hidden passages and tunnels? I searched the memories I had of Paul, but evidently he’d never been inside the room. That was no help. I sneezed, and sneezed again as I wiped some of the dust off the edge of a shelf. A date surfaced. The shelves were marked by year. Mahaka told me the castle dated back to the twelfth century so I searched for twelve-hundred. They were all Roman numerals, carved neatly into the edges of the shelves. Coughing and spluttering from the dust I disturbed, I finally found the shelf for that year. It didn’t have that many scrolls on it. I grabbed all of them, blew the dust away and took them into the library. A leather string bound each scroll, neatly tied in a bow. I’d hit the blueprints jackpot. Now to find the right one. I’d gone through almost all of them, neatly rolling them up again and tying them as I finished studying each one. There were only two left. I sighed. Maybe I’d have to look for the next century. I dreaded the thought of yet another dusty, grimy exploration. I unrolled the scroll and 98
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yelled, “Yeah!” I’d found the right one. I rolled it up and tied it, then scooped the other scrolls and returned them to their shelf. After locking the door, I grabbed the precious scroll and hurried out of the library back to my rooms. I felt as if I wore inches of dust on my body. My nostrils stung, my lungs ached and my throat hurt. My mouth felt parched so I quickly drank down the rest of the orange juice. I felt I needed to bathe again to wash a mountain off dust off my body, but not until I’d found the way to the tower. I unrolled the blueprint, being very careful because the paper was extremely brittle. I set something on each corner so it would stay flat. The ink was faded. I had to look very close to see the lines. I found the tower and put a glass on the spot, then I searched for my rooms. I finally found them and looked for a way to the tower, but there was none. Going back to the tower, I ran my finger down the drawn steps and along the corridor. I saw the double wall on one side of the corridor and followed it. How could I mark it without drawing on the paper? The old parchment was far too big for me to scan it into the computer. A photo! Grinning at my own bright moment, I got my digital camera and took some close shots. I removed the memory card and used the computer 99
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to load the pictures. After opening up my graphics program, I loaded the pictures and chose the clearest one. I brightened the photo, sharpened it, darkened it, until the lines were clearer. Then I chose red and started to draw from the tower to wherever the double wall led. To my surprise, it led in several directions, and after some twists and turns, I found the way to my rooms. I printed the picture then quickly rolled the scroll up and hid it in my closet before opening the panel. I grabbed my flashlight and the large ring with keys before entering. I had to hurry because John would arrive in half an hour and he’d find it strange if I didn’t answer his knock. I stopped every now and then to see which way I had to go. Fortunately, it bypassed the blocked entrance to the prince’s rooms, although I had to climb over a pile of rubble. I came to a twenty foot long, narrow passage that had to be the one behind the wall of the corridor leading to the tower stairs. I scanned the wall, shone my flashlight over it and saw the lever. I had to go into vamp mode to pull it and even then it was hard. I had to summon all the strength I had. I was afraid the rusty lever would break, but no, it finally gave way and a panel opened. I stepped through it into a dusty cobwebbed corridor. At the far end I saw the stone steps leading to the tower door. 100
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I hurried to the steps and bounded up them, two at a time. I had to try quite a few keys before I found one that fit. The lock clicked and I opened the solid, three-inch thick oak door to face a mass of cobwebs and inches of dust. There was no way Mahaka could stay here unless we cleaned it. Maybe Katarina would help. We’d need buckets of water, brooms, disinfectant, and bedding for the old cot that stood in a corner. It had no mattress or blankets on it. An old wooden table and chair stood in the center. A lonely old candleholder stood in the middle of the table. Light filtered through a narrow slit in the wall that served as a window. With two iron bars firmly in place, no one could ever escape from the room. An old shelf hung on one wall. Glancing at my watch I knew I had to hurry back. I left the door unlocked and stayed in vamp mode to rush back to my rooms. Thanks to my memory, I knew the way now. The water that ran off my body was almost black when I showered and washed my hair again. I grimaced and imagined what Katarina and I would look like after we cleaned the room. I had just walked out of the bathroom, a towel wrapped around my waist, when the usual knock came. “Come in, John,” I called out. 101
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“Your Majesty, what are your plans for today?” I knew he asked me so that he knew what clothes to pick. “Katarina and I are going hiking. Jeans and t-shirt will do. You can have the day off. There is nothing on the agenda today.” While John was in my closet I hurriedly put on a pair of boxer shorts. How were we going to get buckets, rags, soap, disinfectant, brooms and brushes? I had another bright moment. When walking through the castle corridors early in the mornings I’d often spotted a servant with their cart filled with cleaning materials. I had to steal one of those carts. We could fill a bucket in my bathroom. “John, I’m starving hungry. I’d like breakfast now and order breakfast for Katarina as well. We’d like to take off early.” “Yes, Your Majesty. I’ll take care of it right away.” We needed time to clean. Mahaka said he’d be at the castle at noon, and I was sure he’d be on time. John laid out my jeans and shirt. “Thanks, you can go now.” “Your Majesty—” “No argument. Take the day off. Katarina and I will be doing our own thing today.” He left, and a servant came in with my breakfast. I ate fast and could hardly wait for Katarina to join me. 102
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She’d been just as eager because I barely drank down my coffee and she knocked on my door. I hurried to open it. “Did you find it?” “Yup. I’ve been busy since five this morning. You and I have quite a task. That’s if you’re up to it?” “Cleaning?” “Yes. I have to go and steal a cleaning cart. You stay here. I’ll be back soon.” “How are you going to get it past the guards?” I hadn’t thought of that. “Mm, million dollar question. How about if you create a diversion? Walk out the door toward your rooms and pretend to faint or something.” “Tripping and falling might be a better idea. I don’t want the royal physician coming to my room, or getting rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. Next thing we know the papers will have me pregnant.” “Okay. I’ll leave the door ajar. When you hear the wheels of the cleaning cart, go do your thing.” “I feel positively devious now. This is playing out like a movie.” I left, leaving the door ajar. I knew I’d find a cleaning cart somewhere so I hurried down my hallway and into the next. Sure enough, there it was. The maid was probably in one of the rooms because no one was in sight. I quickly grabbed the 103
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cart and wheeled it to my hallway. After rounding the corner I saw Katarina come out and head toward her room. She yelped loudly and fell to the floor. I grinned as her guards and mine rushed to her aid. I raced with the cart, water splashing out of the full bucket, but I didn’t care, and pushed it through my door that Katarina had left wide open. I stepped into the hallway again and joined Katarina and the guards. “What happened?” “I went to my rooms to get something and I tripped and fell. I’m okay. It just startled me,” she said and stood up. The four guards hurried back to their spots, and taking Katarina’s arm, I guided her into my rooms pretending to be overly concerned. “Are you sure you’re okay, honey? Did you hurt yourself?” “I’m fine,” she said loudly just as I closed the door. We doubled over in soft laughter and I locked the door. “How we’re going to get that cart down and up steps I don’t know. And will it fit through the narrow passages?” I wondered aloud. “We can carry it between the two of us. Surely it isn’t that heavy?” “No, it’s not made from cast iron. If it doesn’t fit, we’ll have to carry the stuff, make a few trips. I can do that fast if I go into vamp mode.” “I haven’t seen you in vampire mode yet.” 104
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“I don’t change that much. My eyes glow in the dark and I grow fangs. That’s about it.” Katarina grinned. “We’d best get started.” The cart just barely fit between the walls of the stairs going down to the passages but I knew we’d encounter the pile of rocks near the prince’s rooms. I called out my vamp. I’d have to clear a path. Katarina shone the flashlight ahead. As I’d suspected, there wasn’t enough room above the pile of rocks to lift the cart over it. Katarina looked startled when she looked at my face. “My stars, you scared me for a minute. Your eyes glow almost blood red.” “Really? I knew they glowed, but I didn’t know how bright.” I cleared a path between the rocks just wide enough for the cart to pass through. We had to steer it carefully so we wouldn’t lose water. When we got to the stairs leading up to the door to the tower room, I ran up ahead to open it. With Katarina taking the top and walking backward, I took most of the weight of the cart. Katarina shuddered when she looked around the room. “I couldn’t imagine being locked in here. It’s creepy.” I kissed her on the nose. “Yes, but it’ll look better after we clean. We need to hurry. Mahaka will be here at noon.” We swept first. Fortunately, there were several brooms on the cart. The piles of dust we swept up 105
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were unbelievable and the room already looked a lot better. There was only one mop, so I mopped while Katarina washed the bed, the table and the shelf. We’d swept the walls. They were rough stone so we could hardly wash them. “I feel like I’m eating dust,” Katarina muttered when we stood back to inspect our work. We left the cart in one of the passages that led off the main passage. It would just have gone mysteriously missing. There was one more thing I had to take care of. I’d spotted several levers in the passages so I knew there were other secret panels. I wasn’t sure where they led, but when I tried the first one, it opened into a bedroom. The room had two single beds. I quickly stripped one of the beds, handed Katarina the bedding and a pillow and I picked up the mattress. We hurried back to the tower. The mattress was a bit longer and wider, but that didn’t matter. At least Mahaka would have a clean bed to sleep and rest on. “We need candles for him. I forgot about that,” I said as an afterthought. “Maybe there are some on the cart? You have a lot of candles in your rooms. Surely they replace them?” “Good thought. I’ll hurry to the cart and look.” I went to the cart and sure enough, there were several boxes of candles. I grabbed them and 106
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joined Katarina. We placed the boxes of candles on the shelf and put one in the candleholder. We had accomplished everything with enough time left over to shower. “Sweetheart, wash up a bit in my bathroom first before you go to your rooms. Your face is grimy.” Katarina hurried to her rooms to shower and change and I quickly showered and dressed. I’d just brushed my hair when there was a knock on the door. Right on the dot of twelve. It was Mahaka, followed in by Katarina. “Lunch will be here shortly, Mahaka. The secret passages lead to the tower so you and Katarina can go there undetected. We cleaned it this morning. The only thing missing is a chamber pot. There is no bathroom of course. But you can come here to use my bathroom and have a shower. Katarina and I can bring you food and beverages, or you can join us for meals. That’s up to you. We’d love to have you join us.” “I’m an old man. I don’t eat much anymore. I also have simple tastes. Your lavish meals will be too much for this frail old body. Some light food or sandwiches will suffice and plenty of water.” “I’ll ask for a case of bottled water. As for your advanced age, I think you have a remarkably strong stride,” I told him. “I’ll join you for lunch today. I suspect neither of you have eaten yet.” 107
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“No, we haven’t.” “Good. We’ll eat, and then I’m anxious to start teaching my successor.” “That word scares me. What will be expected of me? You’re going to be around for a long time yet, I hope,” Katarina said. “My time to depart will be when you are completely comfortable with your powers and have learned everything. It will take a while. I’ll stay in the tower for about a month and will give you daily lessons. After that, we’ll do it gradually, maybe one day a week.” I told the servants to bring me a case of water. After one of them had fetched it, I told them to leave after they set the table and brought in our lunch. We ate in silence and I did note that Mahaka hardly ate enough to feed a bird. “Can I pack up some of this food for tonight’s meal?” Mahaka asked. “Sure.” I took one of the large platters and heaped it with sandwiches, fruit, slices of meat and potato salad. I added a fork and knife and put the silver dome on top. I had no idea where to get a chamber pot but I thought of emptying the bucket and putting that in the tower room. I’d have to take it to my rooms on a daily basis to empty it. I hoped Mahaka would feel free enough to come and do any other business in my bathroom. I would make sure that he knew the 108
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times there was someone other than me or Katarina present in my quarters, like John. John was usually there in the mornings, again at lunch and at dinner. After lunch I picked up Mahaka’s bag to carry for him. It was quite heavy. I suspected he had books in it. I carried the case of water bottles under my other arm. “Katarina, can you carry the food, please?” I led the way through the passages, looking behind me several times to see if Mahaka was navigating okay behind me. Old wasn’t really the word for him. Ancient was more like it. I reluctantly left them in the tower room. Katarina knew now how to work the lever for the panel and I’d shown Mahaka. I wish I could have stayed with them, but Mahaka said he needed to be alone with her. He said he’d join us for dinner. I scribbled a quick note telling Katarina I’d gone hiking and put it in the bathroom. I didn’t think she would be using the bucket and would come back to my rooms once or twice to relieve herself. I applied my Timothy make-up and left to go on my own excursion. It was too nice a day to stay indoors. I headed straight for the forest. It would be quiet. Or so I thought. I happened upon a group of youngsters led by their scoutmaster. They were camping in the woods. I sat on a high branch and 109
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observed them for a while, feeling a pang of envy. Oh, to have been a normal boy and participate in such things. I smiled at the bickering and their antics. When the scoutmaster gathered them into a group, I moved on. I went far deeper into the woods than I’d ever gone, reveling in the beauty of nature. I’d slowed down, doubting I’d run into anyone this deep into the forest. When I stopped to examine an exotic flower, I suddenly picked up the sound of voices. Curious, I ventured forward slowly, making sure to stay hidden between tall ferns and shrubbery. When the trees and dense shrubbery suddenly stopped, I pushed the branches aside and saw an open patch. The ground changed to rock and large boulders dotted the clearing. Had people really ventured this far? Maybe it was a daring group of teenagers. The boulders were at least three times my size. I skirted them carefully, heading toward the voices, and stopping dead in my tracks when I saw the owners. A group of about ten or twelve naked women stood in a circle. Their ages varied. From what I could see, some were in their twenties or early thirties, others older. In the center of the circle, a woman in a red robe stood on a flat boulder, her arms raised, a gold goblet in one hand. She chanted something in a language I didn’t understand. 110
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“Witches,” I muttered. The women raised their arms, swayed from side to side and joined in the chant. The woman in the red robe stepped off the rock. Walking past each woman, she dipped her finger into the goblet and painted their lips with whatever liquid was inside. I heard another sound. It sounded like a mewing cat. The mewing got louder and then I realized it was the cry of a newborn baby. I shuddered. What were these witches up to? I didn’t have to wonder for long as one of the women reached behind her and produced a basket. From it, she lifted a naked infant. The baby couldn’t have been more than a few days old. The woman walked to the center of the circle and placed the now screaming infant on the boulder. Its little arms and legs flailed helplessly, its cries terrified. The red robed woman walked around the boulder still chanting, holding the goblet up high, now a long knife in her other hand. I was witnessing a satanic cult and ritual. I could hardly believe they were going to sacrifice a baby. I’d read about such things. I wondered whose baby it was. Did it belong to the woman who had taken it out of the basket? Or had they stolen it? The woman poured the liquid from the goblet onto the squirming baby. It was red and looked 111
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like blood. She set the goblet down. The knife started to descend and I sprang into action, my fury at this monstrous spectacle set my blood on fire. I jumped, landing in front of the witch. I’d barely raised my hands when the sparkling ball of energy appeared. I hurled it at her. She screamed, cursing foul language as she was flung back with tremendous speed, crashing against a boulder at the far end of the clearing. She lay unconscious on the ground, or maybe dead. I spun, pointing at the other witches as they tried to approach me. They snarled, cursed, but couldn’t get close. “Damn you all to hell,” I shouted. “Now that I know who you are, I’ll be watching you.” “A fucking vampire,” one of the witches yelled. “You stupid bitch. Vampires kill. They don’t go around saving infants. Let’s put a spell on the demon. Daisy, go and check Marie. She hasn’t moved since this creature attacked her.” “He didn’t attack her. Didn’t you see the ball of light he threw at her? He’s some sort of demonic creature. Look at his weird glowing eyes. Vampires don’t throw balls of energy.” “Shut up!” The woman started chanting. Within a minute the others joined her, their fingers pointing at me. One woman dared try and approach the baby. I stopped her by creating a ring of fire around the 112
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boulder, the baby and me. “She’s fucking dead,” the woman called Daisy yelled from somewhere behind me. They stopped chanting. “Oh, great. How are we going to explain this one?” I couldn’t very well kill all these women. I hoped if I scared them enough they’d stop their evil practice. “Leave this place,” I thundered in my deepest, loudest voice. “Never return and never ever sacrifice a human being or animal again. I will hunt you down now that I know your scent and who you are. You will live in fear of me for the rest of your lives. Take the dead woman with you.” Several of the women made for the trees. I saw them gathering their clothes. A few remained, still hurling insults and curses at me. I pointed at them, a stream of fire landing so close to them I was sure it singed their legs. They screamed and ran for the woods. Through the leaves and ferns I saw them hurriedly put on their clothing. They still hovered uncertainly behind the trees. “Get the dead woman and leave!” I thundered again, setting a bush on fire. Five women darted out of the woods skirting the clearing and ran for the dead woman. I don’t know what kind of story they were going to tell the police, probably that the woman had fallen or 113
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something. I doubted they’d tell the cops they’d run into a vampiric demon. I waited until they carried the woman into the woods and their voices faded before I picked up the squirming infant. It was a little girl. Holding the tiny infant with one arm, I yanked my t-shirt over my head, transferred the little one to the other arm and yanked the shirt off. I wrapped it around the baby, and then held her against my chest. She stopped crying. As I looked down at something so small and fragile, strange sensations flitted through my body and my heart, an assault of emotions I’d never experienced. I’d never imagined what it would feel like to hold a small baby. Now I knew. A great tenderness welled within me. I bent to kiss the baby’s forehead before heading into the woods with her. I sped like lightning until I came to the border of Kedalmont. I stood there for a few moments trying to decide what was best. I didn’t want to go to the police because they’d question me. If I told them where I’d found the infant, they’d undoubtedly end up connecting me to the dead woman. Suddenly I knew what to do. I sped through alleys and back streets until I was near the hospital. Two ambulances stood parked near the emergency entrance. No one seemed nearby. I 114
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approached one of the vehicles, quickly opened the back door and placed the baby on the empty gurney. The little one didn’t appreciate me taking the tshirt off her body and started to whimper again. “Sorry, little baby. I can’t leave my t-shirt with you,” I whispered. I kissed the tiny fingers, marveling at the perfect little hand, so small beside my own big hand. I left quickly, but waited around the corner in the shadows. I’d left the back door of the ambulance open and heard the baby’s cries from where I stood. I felt so sorry for the poor little thing. She must have only been born days ago because the umbilical cord was still dangling from her tummy. Two paramedics came through the glass doors. “What the hell?” One of them said. I watched as he walked to the back of the ambulance. “Jerry, come take a look at this!” “What the fuck! It’s a baby!” They wrapped the baby in a blanket and hurried her into emergency. I was satisfied. The baby would be looked after now. After hurrying back to the castle and my quarters, I noticed the time had flown. It wouldn’t be long until dinner. Fortunately, Katarina and Mahaka weren’t in my rooms when I got there. I needed some space, just a little bit of time to 115
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myself to absorb what I had experienced that afternoon.
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Chapter Eleven I kept watch on the witches. I knew their scents,
their faces, and soon found out their names and where they lived. While Katarina was busy with Mahaka, I went on excursions and made sure to show myself to the witches. I had become so adept with my disguise that I dared appear in daylight. I’d also sniffed out the vampire mechanic and a driver. I ordered them both fired and left orders that I wanted to interview any new employees. I’d rid the castle of vampires first. Paul was furious when he found out that his minions were slowly leaving the castle’s employ. There was nothing he could do to prevent me from telling the master of the household to fire people. I don’t think Don Williams appreciated my interference, but he dare not argue with me. Right now Paul was kept busy overseeing the building of his mansion. From his thoughts I knew he wanted it built fast. I also knew the location 117
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now, and today after breakfast I was going to check it out. I didn’t see much of Katarina during her apprenticeship. After dinner, she was usually exhausted and left early for her rooms. She told me little and I didn’t ask questions. She just wanted and needed tenderness, understanding, and my love. When she was ready, I was sure she’d tell me all about her experiences with Mahaka. Today was the last day Mahaka and she would spend in the tower. “Good morning, sweetheart.” I kissed her and held her for a moment, regardless of John hovering in the background. Of late, I’d allowed him to stay while we ate to avoid suspicion. To tell him and the guards that I wasn’t to be disturbed on a daily basis was not a good thing. I had to space my escapes from the castle and keep busy doing other things—like some royal duties, learning Latin, going to the castle gym to work out, swim in the indoor pool, stay generally where someone could find me. “John, you may go now. I don’t want to be disturbed until lunch. Just leave the dirty dishes,” I said. I saw a small frown. “I’m studying languages,” I explained lamely. “I need total quiet.” I waited until he’d left the room. “Are you glad 118
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today is the last day of your month of apprenticeship?” I asked Katarina while munching on my breakfast. “I’ll say. It’s exhausting. I feel so drained at the end of the day.” “I’ve noticed.” “I’m sorry. I know I haven’t been myself lately. I’m still weirded out by it all. Even my parents have noticed something odd about me, and so has Joslyn. Dad is worried about me. He keeps telling me to postpone the wedding. And I hate not being able to keep my phone on. Mahaka tolerates no interruptions of any kind.” “Well, after today you’ll only see Mahaka one day a week.” “Yes. He told me at least until our wedding. After that he needs to prepare for his departure, he told me. It’s strange. I’ve become rather fond of the old man. But I regard him more like a grandfather.” “You’d better eat before your eggs get cold. I can’t wait to spend more time with you again. I miss you.” Katarina looked at her watch after she ate the last of her breakfast. “I’d best hurry. He’s very sticky about being on time.” I quickly added fruit, scrambled eggs, and toast to the bacon platter and covered it. Mahaka didn’t drink coffee but I filled up a cup for Katarina. 119
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“I wish we had mugs,” she said with a sigh. “I can bring you more coffee mid-morning if you like.” “No, better not. I’ll have to wait until lunch. As you said, this is the last day of a very long month. I’ve persevered thus far without more coffee, I can last another day.” Carrying Mahaka’s food, I opened the panel and we hurried to the tower. I escorted her into the tower room, set Mahaka’s breakfast on the table, kissed Katarina, and left them. Once back in my quarters, I locked the door. After applying my make-up, I hurried out of the castle. As always, I breathed in the briny sea air and stood for a moment reveling in my freedom. I headed for the forest and the mountains beyond. It was quite far to the other side of the island but I’d get there fast. The property Paul had bought was quite isolated. It was far from any civilization. When I got there, I was amazed at the progress. The house, or mansion, was nearing completion. With its red tiled roof and white pillars, it resembled a Spanish villa. It was huge. I viewed it from my perch on the side of the mountain for a while and watched the workers landscaping the property. A satellite dish perched on the roof. Paul would soon be moving into it. 120
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I scented them before they approached me. “Peter Taylor?” I said, without turning around. He had already turned and sat next to me, the other wolves hovering in the background. “There are a bunch of vampires moving into that house,” he told me. “Yes. That’s why I’m here.” “They’re evil. They’ve killed many of us. Do you know them? You’re not one of them, are you?” “No, I’m not. I only know their leader.” “I’ve been in touch with Hansen. He’s taken DNA and blood samples.” “Good. You never did call me, but Hans told me he’d seen you several times.” “There are many of my pack that hope for a complete cure. Personally, as I told you before, I don’t want to lose my abilities. All I want to lose is the urge to hunt, the thirst to kill. As a wolf, I can fight the vampires. As a human, I’m helpless against them.” “I hear you. I’m keeping close watch on this lot. I’m glad you and your pack are, too. By the way, I ran into a witch ritual not long ago. They were getting ready to sacrifice a baby.” “My God. They’re still doing that? We thought we’d scared them enough that they’d stopped.” “I think I’ve put the fear of the Almighty in them now and I’ve been watching them. The baby 121
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is safe. Poor little thing was newborn. I heard on the news she’ll be up for adoption. Hopefully they’ll place her with a good family.” Suddenly there was quite a bit of commotion down below. I spotted Paul and some of his minions that pointed up to where we sat. They had scented the wolves. “Don’t worry,” Peter said. “They’ve scented us, but they won’t try anything. Most of the workers are just ordinary people. I didn’t think the vamps could scent us this far away.” “Vampires can scent quite far, for miles.” “How come they didn’t scent you? You were here before us. Matter of fact, I didn’t smell you either. We just happened upon you while approaching the house.” “The breeze has turned.” I didn’t really want to tell Peter everything about me. He already knew enough. “Do you think they’re up to something today? Is that why you’re here?” “Don’t know. We quite often come here to keep watch for a while. They won’t attempt anything in daylight.” “True. I haven’t picked up anything from Damian’s thoughts except stuff about the house and their move.” “When?” “As soon as the landscaping is done. The inside of the house will be finished in a few days. Next 122
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week. I suppose I’d best head back. If you need my help, you have my phone number. I’ll run with you and your pack against them.” “You wouldn’t stand a chance against a horde of them, not even with our help. Especially if they get the other wolf pack to help them.” I grinned. “You’d be surprised at what I can do. I’ll call you if I pick up anything from Damian. Most of the time I know what he’s planning. Except when I’m asleep.” “How do you know this Damian anyway? He’s new and we’re surprised the vampires accepted him as their leader after the other one died. You do know their leader was Paul, the former king?” “Yes. I wasn’t aware that it was public knowledge.” “The wolves all knew that the king was a vampire, and so did all the vampires. We were glad when his car blew him to hell, but we never expected for another leader to surface so fast. One we don’t know.” “Oh, but you do know him. Paul didn’t die. He faked it and had plastic surgery.” The wolf pack growled and shifted restlessly behind us. “My God. That explains it all. But he was a vampire. How could he have sired a child?” “He had his sperm frozen some years before he was turned. Juliette was artificially inseminated. 123
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She just never told Paul.” “Do you think she suspected?” “No, not that he was a vampire. She knew something wasn’t right.” I hoped he believed my explanation. He seemed to, although he stared at me with a searching expression on his face. There was no way I could tell him of my origin. No one outside of Hans, Mahaka, Katarina could ever know. I left them and hurried back to the castle. I needed to be back before lunch. To my surprise, Katarina was already in my quarters, sound asleep on my bed. I quickly took off my make-up, washed the glue off my face and lay next to her. Automatically, she curled into me and snuggled against my chest. I suspected Mahaka had left already and she was exhausted. Holding her gently, I imagined our upcoming nuptials and my beautiful bride walking toward me.
Next… Vampire Nuptials Royal Vampires Four
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About the Author Gabriella Bradley lives in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, amidst rugged mountains. She more than often has a grizzly in her backyard searching for food. Other critters that visit on a regular basis are cougars, coyotes, squirrels, raccoons. She has been a writer all of her life, though only ventured into erotic works in 2003. Her hobbies include hiking, gardening, swimming, sewing, embroidery. Favorite movies are old timers like Gone with the Wind, Spartacus etc. Favorite music is Abba.
