Published: 03 Nov 2016

Chapter 10

It took almost an hour to bond both Daniel and Sheila, who surprising everyone, insisted that she was to be bonded as well. Danny wanted to as well, but his parents flatly forbade it. He was still sulking when Hank bent down, so he could look into the eleven-year-old’s eyes. “Danny… If I were to bond you to me, like I am your parents, it would mean that you would not grow up like normal. Give it a few years, and then if you really want to, we can talk about it.”

Danny still didn’t look convinced till Runi spoke from the corner. “You have other duties young Daniel. Ones that you would not be able to perform properly if you were bonded.” That seemed to make Danny take it better. He actually puffed out his chest a little when Runi said he had his own duties to perform.

“While we are gone.” Runi said as he looked at the five that were staying. “Get to know each other; and Devin find out everything you can from both Jared and Colt about Vampires.”

“Me?” Colt asked completely bewildered.

“Yes you.” Runi said with a small smile. “You have been with me for some time now, you know more about how Vampires act, and operate than you realize. I also wish you to keep notes on questions that cannot be answered so that Hank may answer them when we get back.” Runi’s eyes fell on Devin. “I also want you to think about how you feel, remember anything that seems odd. There is something about you that I have not been able to place yet. Anything that you find odd, please remember to inform both Hank and myself about. The more we know, the easier it will be to figure you out.” Devin nodded, then the others did as well, even Danny. With that, Runi moved outside to join the rest.

“Bryan.” Lugh said as he tossed the teen a set of keys. “You’re driving the minivan. Stay right behind us.”

Bryan was beaming as he moved to the driver’s side of the van, unlocked it, then opened the doors for the others. Daniel moved to his truck, but Lugh stopped him. “As the Steward, your job is to drive the Lord. At least until we get a dedicated driver.” Lugh then tossed him a set of keys, and pointed to a car that sat under a tarp. He moved over, and with help from the others, pulled the tarp off to reveal a sleek black BMW.

“Nice.” Daniel said as he unlocked the vehicle, then moved to open the door for Hank and Runi who moved into the back. Lugh opened his own door, and sat down in the passenger seat, just in time to hear Runi remarking about not liking the ‘fast metal boxes’.

Daniel pulled out and Bryan quickly pulled in behind them. In his van were the other five Vampire Half Lifes: Connie, Decker, Alexandra, Jazz and Jennifer. Sitting up front with him was Sheila.

Following Lugh’s directions, Daniel drove them from the farm house they’d been staying in, through the city, and to the other side of town, where all the mansions stood. Stopping at the gate, Daniel lowered the window, and pressed the call button. A moment later a voice, tinged with fear, came over the speaker. “Yes?” It asked simply.

Having been prompted by Lugh and Hank on the way there, Daniel spoke in a strong, confident voice. “Lord Dayton has come to inspect his new holdings.”

There was only a moment’s hesitation, then the gate began to swing open, and the voice sounded through the speaker again. “The Elder has been expected. We hope that he will find everything to his liking.”

When the gate opened fully, Daniel started up the long, paved road. When the house came into view, even Runi gasped. The house was just plain huge. Three stories tall, with two ‘wings’ coming off each side. There was a circular driveway, with a fountain in the middle. “I think I’ve seen this place before.” Lugh said more to himself than anyone else. He then looked at Daniel, grinned, then looked back at Hank. “Welcome to Wayne Manor, Master Bruce.”

“Huh?” Hank asked stupidly, not only not getting the reference, but still shaken by the sheer immensity of the house that was now his.

When Daniel stopped the car, he quickly shut it off, then moved around to open the back door for Hank and Runi. That brief time was more than enough for Hank and Runi to both school their expressions, so when they emerged from the car, they were both stone faced. It was a good thing too.

Arranged before them were several people, all dressed in their best clothing. The front line was three Vampires wearing suits, and only barely suppressing the anger they felt. Hank didn’t need anyone to tell him that these were three of Anton’s Vampires. They were not what caught his attention. It was the two lines of Humans that were behind them. He would have to wait and find out what that was all about until later. First though, he had other things to deal with.

He waited till his group was arranged behind him, then, with his head held high, he walked forward till he was in front of the three. They hesitated for a moment, but then, with the one in the center leading, they all dropped to a knee and bowed their heads. Hank waited a moment, then told them to rise.

Silently he regarded them for a moment, then sighed and spoke firmly. “I know that none of you wish to have a Half Life as your House Elder, so I release you from the House, if that is what you choose.”

They all stared at him in shock. This was the last thing they expected. “I know there were five here, so I assume the others left before being released. They are now exiled for breach of Tradition. You however, may petition the other Houses for membership if you choose. I will not stand in the way of that. Any House Lord that contacts me will know that you held to Tradition, and acted both honorably and properly.”

“Thank you.” The middle one said, still somewhat stunned.

“Before you ask, you will of course, be allowed to gather anything from the house that you consider to be yours.” The three nodded in unison, before turning to leave. Once they were not in the way, Hank turned a critical eye to the two rows of Humans.

Hank quickly counted twenty-three people standing there, ranging in age from what he guessed was a woman in her late forties, to kids younger than Danny. All of them were dressed in their best, and looking very nervous at Hank.

When he stepped forward, a man in his late thirties also stepped forward and bowed deeply. “Elder Dayton.” The man began still speaking towards the cobblestone walkway. “My name is Winston. I was the Steward of the Great House of Anton.”

Hank sighed when the man still did not look up. “Winston, please look at me when you speak.”

The man gulped but did straighten up, and now Hank had to look up into the man’s face. Softening his tone, even though he wanted to rage, he let his eyes fall over the entire group. His eyes lingered on the youngest two children. A boy and a girl, obviously twins. They were maybe nine years old, both with flowing blond hair, and bright blue eyes. He tore his eyes away from the kids, then met Winston’s eyes again. “Were all of you bonded to Anton?”

“Yes Elder.” Winston said, but his tone told Hank that there was a lot more than simple bonding going on here.

“Very well.” Hank said after a moment of consideration. He then stood up straighter, and spoke loud enough for all to hear. “Thank you for your welcome. If you would all please return to your duties, I would like to speak with Winston.” He then looked at Winston. “Would you please assign a few of your people to show my friends around. We will be taking up residence here, so please make sure they are allowed to choose suitable rooms.”

“Of course.” Winston said quickly, then pointed to the two youngest. “Edward and Elizabeth are your personal servants. If you wish them to serve as guide for your friends…” Winston’s words trailed off as he caught the fire in Hank’s eyes.

Hank was quick to squash the anger, then nodded, looking to the two frightened children. “If you two would be so kind.” They both nodded eagerly, bowed deeply, then moved to the group. They both bowed, but then the boy straightened. “If the Masters would please follow us…” Neither waited for a reaction, just turned, and led the way into the house, followed by everyone but Hank, Runi, Lugh and Daniel.

“This way please.” Winston said with a nervous motion towards the front door.

“Yes… we have much to discuss.” Hank said as he followed the man up the stairs, and into the massive house.

Devin flopped down on the couch and sighed. He looked around and saw Jared looking at him. With a grin he patted the seat next to him which Jared quickly, but nervously took. Chris giggled at the blush on Jared’s face, “You know, you two make a cute couple.”

Devin smiled, but Jared blushed heavily. “Oh come on Jared.” Colt said as he sat down and pulled Chris down next to him, “It’s not like it’s a bad thing.”

“I know,” Jared said as he looked down at his lap. “it’s just hard to get used to.”

“Grew up religious?” Chris asked softly. Jared was only able to nod after a few moments.

“It’s okay.” Devin said softly as he put his arm over Jared’s shoulder. “I’ve been on the streets for a while now, and I know this much: If you really like someone, damn what others may say. You only get to live once…” He trailed off, then started to laugh uncontrollably. It took everyone else a moment before they got his unintended joke, and then they joined in the laughter, breaking the tension that was filling the room.

“What’s so funny?” Danny asked as he walked into the room, and flopped down on an empty chair. Chris just shook her head, and Colt rolled his eyes. “You guys are weird.”

“Well duh!” Devin said when his laughter calmed down enough. “But let me ask you this. Who’s weirder? Us, or the kid that’s sitting here talking to two dead guys and two wolves?”

Danny was wide eyed and silent for a moment, as he digested Devin’s comment. A second later he busted out laughing uncontrollably. The four older teens just looked at each other and smiled. When Danny finally calmed down, he looked at Devon and Jared then asked, “Why don’t your eyes glow all the time?”

Devon looked confused then looked at Jared who shrugged. “All the vampire stories say your eyes should glow all the time,” Danny said like it should have been obvious.

Colt was the one who actually answered. “I asked Runi about that once, and he laughed at me. He said that legends don’t often have a base in reality.” Seeing Danny didn’t really understand he grinned. “Basically, just because legend says something is supposed to be, doesn’t mean it is. Take garlic, I happen to know Runi likes to cook with garlic. Hell, according to the legends, vampires shouldn’t eat anything other than blood.”

“Wait… you guys eat regular food?” Danny asked, looking at Jared and Devon.

“Well, I haven’t needed to yet…” Devon said as he looked at Jared who only nodded.

“We don’t eat as much, but we still do, and need to.” He responded.

“That’s cool.” Danny said with a grin, then added, “Maybe I should ask to become a vamp.”

“NO!” Devon said sharply, as he leaned forward, shaking his head.

“Why not?” Danny asked with a bit of a pout.

“Cause you’re not old enough.”

“You’re not that much older.” Danny challenged back.

“What does age have to do with it?” Christina asked, trying to stop her brother from having a temper tantrum. He may have been 11, but sometimes he acted a lot younger. “I thought you guys didn’t like the whole age limit thing?”

“We don’t, but it’s something that Lugh explained to us at one point.” Jared responded as he sat back, and allowed Devon to snake an arm over his shoulder. “From what Lugh said, part of the reason that the older vampires don’t like us younger ones is because if someone is turned too young, well their brains aren’t developed enough to handle it.”

“What happens?” Colt asked into the silence.

“Lugh says they go insane, and eventually just die.”

Danny’s eyes went wide, as he sat back. Chris though sat forward. “How do you know if someone is old enough.”

Jared looked between Danny and Christina before he answered. “He said if someone hadn’t hit puberty yet…”

“Huh?” Danny asked.

Chris rolled her eyes. “You remember dad giving you the talk last year.”

“Yeah… oh!” He said as it dawned on him what they meant. He sat back with a disgusted look on his face, “Why does all the cool stuff have to wait till after I get hairs!”

That caused everyone to start laughing including, after a few moments, Danny. However when he started to laugh it was a bit uncontrollable.

Everyone laughed a little bit harder, due to how hard Danny was laughing, however when Danny continued laughing, Chris shook her head and shrugged. Finally, after almost a minute of laughter, Devin chuckled, then said to Danny. “It wasn’t that funny… Shut up already!”

Two things happened at the same moment. Devin’s eyes flashed orange and Danny slammed his mouth shut, almost hard enough to chip his front teeth. Colt and Christina immediately jumped to their feet and moved in front of Danny, as they felt something emanating from Devin. Christina, her eyes dancing red as she tried to control her shift, snarled at Devin, “What did you do?”

“I… I don’t know!” Devin cried out while Jared stood up next to him, not sure what had just happened. Danny though, was just sitting there not moving. His chest was rising, his eyes were wide, but his mouth stayed shut, clenched tightly.

After Winston left the office that Hank had been informed was now his, the young Lord cursed under his breath. Looking at Lugh, he felt his eyes blaze, and his fangs slam downwards. “If that bastard were not already dead…” He said through gritted teeth.

Runi, having seen much worse in his day, was able to control the anger he felt. “But he is.” He said as he moved to stand in front of Hank, placing a hand on the boy’s shoulder. “What you must now do is decide how to best use what you have been given. How to shape these events to your best advantage, and most importantly, how to use all of this to protect not only yourself, but your family as well. Something this Anton seemed to forget is that the House Lord’s greatest responsibility is to his House. He serves the House, not the House serving him. With this being a Great House, it makes your responsibilities all the greater.”

Hank was nodding as he calmed down. When he met Runi’s eyes, Hank’s were no longer blazing red. “Thank you for reminding me of that Ancient.” by using Runi’s formal title, Hank was conveying just how grateful he was for Runi’s words. When Runi nodded and stepped back, Hank looked to Daniel. “Would you mind staying here with Lugh as the rest of us return to the other house, and gather our belongings. I need you to learn as much as you can about the administration of this house. I am thankful that Winston stayed, but I am not sure I can deal with his… mannerisms.”

Both Daniel and Lugh chuckled at Hank’s choice of words, but nodded, rose from their seats, and left the room together. Hank turned towards Runi as the smaller boy began to speak. “There is always much to do when someone takes over a House. Especially someone who has not been a part of a House for a long time.”

Hank nodded, closed his eyes, took a few deep breaths, then opened them again. “When my Sire took his Sun Quest, I decided that I never wanted to be a House Lord like he was. Now though, I find myself thrust into that role, just to protect those that I have come to love. I just pray that I am half the Lord that my Sire was.”

“Your Sire sounds like a fine man. Just follow his example, and I am sure you will do well,” Runi said, then motioned towards the door. Hank took the lead, gathered the others, and soon they were on their way back to the home they had been staying in.

Even before the vehicles pulled to a stop, Christina was running out the door towards them. Hank was first out of the door, even before the door was fully open, Runi right behind him. “Devin did something to Danny!” She said as she got to the vans. Runi seemed to disappear as he ran to the house, Hank a few paces behind him, but falling back fast. Hank couldn’t help but think ‘damn that boy can move’.

“What has happened?” Runi demanded as he skidded to a stop. Looking around he saw nothing that jumped out and said that there was a problem, save for that everyone was nervous. Everyone except Danny, who seemed to be rooted to the seat he was sitting in, mouth tightly clenched, but eyes wide with an almost palpable fear.

Everyone started trying to talk at once, but no one was making much sense. Runi tried to raise his hand for quiet, but it didn’t help. Finally he cleared his throat, looked at Hank who nodded. Hank then raised his fingers to his lips and let out an almighty shrill, piercing whistle, that stopped everyone in mid-sentence, or mid-run.

With silence in the room, Runi looked at Colt and spoke softly. “Please explain what happened.”

Colt took a deep breath, looking around and noticing that everyone was there now, and looking at him, Sheila looking scared between him and Danny. “We were talking when someone said something really funny. We all laughed, but Danny laughed louder and harder than the rest. When it went on a long time, Devin finally told him to just shut up. His eyes flashed the weird orange color, and both Christina and I felt something happen. Since then, Danny hasn’t moved, or made a sound.”

Runi visibly relaxed, then looked at Devin. “So your first gift has made itself known already, and on your first full night in Darkness. Very impressive.”

“Wait!” Jazz said as he looked dumbfounded. “He’s only been a Vampire for one night, and he’s got his gift? I’ve been a Vampire for twelve years and I don’t got a gift yet!”

“You don’t?” Runi said in astonishment, then shook his head. “We’ll talk about that in a moment.” He then looked around the room, his eyes finally falling on Sheila, who was hovering over Danny. “Sheila, please trust me that there is absolutely nothing wrong with Danny. He has simply fallen under the effects of Devin’s emerging gift of compulsion. When he told Danny to do something, his Vampire side took it upon itself to back that up with his newfound mental abilities.”

“You sure?” Sheila, always protective of her children, said in a rush.

“Absolutely.” Runi said with as much reassurance as he could. “I could easily break the compulsion, but I believe it would be best if Devin did it himself.”

“Me?” Devin asked in a small voice. “How would I break it? I don’t even know how I did it!” His voice raising a bit at the end.

“It’s okay Devin.” Hank said as he moved to the side of his Childe. “When one first learns his gifts, he then must learn to control it. We were going to speak about that this evening, but I guess you have accelerated the timeline a bit.” While he spoke, he placed a reassuring hand on Devin’s shoulder, and the boy visibly calmed.

“What do I do?” Devin asked quietly.

“Judging by the way Danny is still acting, your mind is holding the compulsion in place. So, what you need to do is calm down, relax, and close your eyes.” Hank paused until he saw Devin’s eyes close, and his body relax. “Now, deep down inside of you is the part of you that is Vampire. To me it feels like a seething mass of red boiling blood, but it could be anything. Search inside yourself for it.”

“I… I don’t know.” Devin began in a soft voice, but Hank spoke over him.

“It’s okay, just keep yourself calm, and keep looking. It’s sometimes hard to find the first time you go looking for it. But it is there. Look deep, deep inside your own mind. Find the place that makes you a Vampire. A place that makes you both more and less than a normal Human. The part of you that keeps your dead body alive.” Hank’s voice trailed off when he saw the sudden relief come across Devin’s face.

“I think I found it!” He cried out, his eyes snapping open, but then his grin faded. “It… It’s not there anymore.”

Hank just grinned, and shook his head. “That’s okay, just close your eyes, and find it again.”

Devin glanced at a still unmoving Danny, took a deep breath, then closed his eyes. “That’s it, go back to the place that is the center of your power…” Hank said in almost a hypnotic voice. “Find it, and this time, hold onto it. Draw it into yourself, wrap yourself in it.”

When Devin nodded, Hank smiled. “Good, now open your eyes.” When Devin did, everyone who had not seen the eyes last night, gasped as his eyes burned the bright amber color, instead of the red that every other Vampire they knew did. Hank, being prepared for it, simply nodded. “Good, you are now in full control of all your abilities. Remember how you found it, and practice bringing it forward. As you practice it will become easier and easier, to the point that you can do it instantly. But….” He paused as he looked back over at Danny. “First you need to stop controlling him. So, close your eyes again, and look for the small trickle of your power, reaching out and touching Danny. It may be so small it’ll be hard to find, but it’s there.”

After almost a full minute, Hank was about to repeat his instructions, when Devin’s eyes lit up. “I… I found it.”

“Good. Now stop it. Imagine cutting that little thread of power with scissors, or a knife.” Hank said, his eyes falling to Danny, waiting to see when Devin was successful. It took almost thirty seconds, before the young boy seemed to drop back into his chair, as if invisible strings had been cut. His eyes were fearful, and he kept his mouth shut.

“Danny!” Sheila exclaimed, as she rushed around the chair, and pulled the eleven-year-old boy into her arms. “Are you okay?”

“Yeah…” He said slowly as he warily eyed Devin.

“Sorry Danny.” Devin said, his eyes back to their normal pale green color. “I… I really didn’t mean it.” Devin looked to be on the verge of tears, he was so upset. “I… I really didn’t.”

“I know.” Danny said softly. “Please don’t do it again.” He said just a little bit louder. “It… It was like I couldn’t do nothing with my own body. I mean I tried, but I couldn’t move.”

Devin opened his mouth to try and say something, anything, to make it better, but he had no idea what to say. Finally it was Runi that spoke. “Sheila.” He said, and when the woman looked at him, Runi smiled softly. “If you would permit it, I do know a way that no Vampire with a gift like Devin’s, could force young Danny to do something he does not want. Christina already has protections, and so do you, and Daniel due to the Bond between you and Hank. However, Danny does not have any such protections.”

“How?” Sheila said sternly, then softened. “I’m sorry.” She took a deep breath, as Runi just smiled. “How would it work?”

“Vampires, even young ones, can easily read the minds of a Human. As easy as it would be to watch that picture box.” Runi pointed towards the TV. “Ummm… yes, the television.” He had to refer back to the memories of the first person he drank from this cycle, to find the name.

Sheila’s eyes went wide at that revelation. “However.” Runi continued quickly. “I can instill a wall if you will, to stop Vampires, unless they are very, very powerful, from being able to read his thoughts. As a side effect, it would also stop Vampires with the ability to, to control him.”

“What does he have to do?” Sheila asked after thinking about it for several moments, then looked at Danny, who nodded.

“He will have to do nothing more than sit there, while I do the work.” Runi said with a confident smile.

Before his mother was able to respond, Danny spoke up. “Do it!” He said emphatically, then blushed. “Please.” He added in a somewhat sheepish voice.

Runi chuckled as he moved over to where the boy sat, still cuddled in his mother’s arms. Without making either one move, he placed his hands on either side of the boy’s head, closed his eyes, and when he opened them again, they were burning with a visible light, red. Sheila gasped at seeing eyes that bright, but Danny seemed to be drawn into those eyes. Neither he nor Runi blinked for almost a full minute, before Runi removed his hands, and Danny started to blink quickly.

Runi closed his eyes, then re-opened them, and the red eyes were gone, and back were his normal deep black eyes. “Wow…” Was all that came out of Danny’s mouth. That caused Runi to chuckle as he stepped back, then looked around the room. “I would like everyone, to try and read Danny’s mind.” He then turned to Danny, leaned down and whispered into his ear. “When I glanced into your mind, I saw how much you want to be like your sister and change. I want you to think about what you think you would look like as a wolf.” He leaned back, and Danny nodded, then closed his eyes.

Thirty seconds later, Hank was the first one to speak up. “Nothing.”

“I can’t see anything either.” Connie said quickly. “It’s like he’s not even there.”

The rest of the Vampires in similar fashion. When Runi looked back at Danny, he was grinning. “Thanks!” He said happily, then jumped out of his mother’s embrace and hugged Runi.

“DANIEL!” His mother cried out, causing Danny to jump back from Runi, and stutter an apology.

Runi though smiled and ruffled Danny’s hair, even though the boy was nearly as tall as he was. He then looked at Sheila. “Please. It is no problem. It has been a long time since I have received a hug, and do not mind it at all.” Her response was a smile and a nod. Runi then turned, the smile fading from his face. “Would everyone please find a place to sit, it seems that I do not, cannot, understand how some of you can be many years in Darkness, yet have not found your gifts.”

Everyone, except Runi, moved to a seat, and as soon as they were all settled, Connie was actually the first one to speak. “I’m not sure what you mean, Ancient.” Connie said using Runi’s formal title, since this was obviously an ‘official’ situation. “We all know that some Vampires never receive a gift…”

“Receive?” Runi said in astonishment. He looked at Hank who hesitantly nodded.

“It’s a relatively new thing, but yes, some Vampires never receive a gift. It also seems to be growing lately, with more and more Vampires reaching Juvenile status, and yet not having a gift. When it first started happening, the Councils started to say that no one could pass from Fledgling status without receiving their gifts. However, when more and more Vampires started to reach twenty years in Darkness, and still not finding their gifts, they eased that.”

“No one really understands how or why some get their gifts, while others don’t. Mine showed up a few months after I was turned.” Decker said with a shake of his head, then turned and looked at Jazz. “As he said, he’s been a Vampire for more than ten years, and still hasn’t found his gift.”

Runi started to pace silently, and every eye was on him as he thought. Finally he turned and spoke to Jazz. “I am sorry if anything I ask of you is personal…” He let his words trail off, as Jazz started to shake his head.

“Ancient.” He began seriously. “If anything I know will help me find a Gift, then I’ll tell you anything.”

Runi nodded his head and continued pacing for several seconds before he again stopped and looked at Jazz. “How long was your preparation?”

“Preparation?” Jazz asked in confusion.

“Yes.” Runi said firmly. “How long did your Sire prepare you before you were turned.”

“You’re kidding right?” Jazz asked with a harsh laugh. When Runi’s expression didn’t change, Jazz sighed. “I was walking home one night when this guy jumped me, and bit me. Just before I passed out, he laughed and told me to have a good life. He then bit his wrist, and shoved it into my mouth. Several nights later, I woke up in an abandoned warehouse hungry as hell.”

Runi’s eyes were wide with astonishment and horror. He looked to Hank. “My Preparation was almost a year long.” Hank said quickly.

Runi nodded then began to pace again. After a few moments, he stopped and let his eyes roam over the entire room. “How many of you were turned without any preparation?” Slowly nine hands rose. He had been expecting Devin’s hand, since he knew what happened there, but he was not expecting every Vampire in the room, except for Runi and Hank, to raise their hand. Runi’s look of incredulous horror would have made some people laugh, had the situation been different.

“At least it’s not a generational issue.” Runi said almost to himself, than shook his head in dismay. Finally he got himself under control, and spoke again. “How many of you have gifts?” Hank raised his hand, as did Connie, Jennifer, Lugh, Decker, and finally Devin.

Runi waited for more hands, then dropped his chin into his chest. “So only about half of you?”

“By the blood…” Runi cursed softly under his breath. “How could things have fallen so far?” He asked rhetorically. No one answered as he started to pace again, this time, the silence reigning for several minutes. The tension was so thick that Hank almost spoke, just to break it when Runi stopped and looked around. “I am sorry if I have worried any of you, but I just cannot believe that Sires do not prepare their Children anymore.”

“Hell, no one here WANTED to be a Vampire.” Jazz said somewhat bitterly, before looking at Devin. “Well except him.”

Devin was about to respond, when Runi raised his hand. “Wait a moment. None of you…” He trailed off as he looked around the room. “None of you were asked?”

“No.” Several of them said at once. “I knew about Vampires before I was turned, but I did not want to become one.” Lugh said simply, to which Runi nodded, then looked to Hank.

“You said you were prepared so you knew what was going to happen, and had time to adjust your thinking.”

“Yes. My village was destroyed in a storm. I was out tending the flock, and was able to take cover in a small cave. When I went back, I met Richard who took me with him. He explained what he was, and then asked if I would like to be turned. Having nothing left, I agreed, and for the next year, he trained me, before he turned me.”

Runi’s eyes seemed to brighten as he thought about what he was learning, then turned to Connie. His eyes seemed to bore into hers before he spoke. “When did you finally accept that you were a Vampire?”

“What do you mean?” She asked softly. “I mean I figured out what I was when I killed the first time. It really hit me when I felt hungry, and no food that I ate would do anything to stop that hunger. But when I went out and fed from a Human I felt so much better.”

Runi finally smiled. “And how long after that did you find your Gift?”

Connie’s eyes went wide. “A week or so later.”

Runi finally nodded as he looked at Jazz. “One of the main reasons for a Sire to prepare his Childe is so that the Childe knows what he is to become. To know that he will be a Vampire, and everything that it entails. But mostly so that they ACCEPT what they are to become. A Sire is not supposed to turn his Prospect until they are sure they have accepted what they are asking for.”

“So you’re saying that I don’t have a gift yet because I wasn’t taught how to be a Vampire before I was turned?”

“No.” Runi said while shaking his head. “I’m saying you have not learned your Gift because you have not fully accepted the fact that you are a Vampire.”

The fire, being small to begin with, was little more than embers by the time the two young men finished their coupling. As the smaller boy lay wrapped in the arms of his larger lover, they softly talked about their adventure. “You think we will meet them tomorrow?” He asked in a soft voice.

“I do.” Was the response while he squeezed his smaller lover tightly. “I know you are afraid, so am I. The Quest though.”

“Yes I know.” The smaller boy said as he turned around in his lover’s arms, looking deeply into the young man’s deep brown eyes. “I also know that knowing is certain.” The larger boy leaned forward and captured the protesting lips with his own. Their souls merged through their lips, as always happened when these two made love. The kiss broke, and the smaller boy looked deep into his lover’s eyes. “Love me.” Was all he said.

“No…” The larger boy said with a smile. “Love me.” The smaller boy smiled and that is what he did, till long after the moon rose fully into the night sky.

Just after dawn, the larger boy woke, his companion still spooned in behind him. He lay there listening to nature, and what it told him this morning. Suddenly he sat up straight, waking his smaller lover. “What’s wrong? The boy asked softly.

“They have moved.” The larger boy said, his eyes lost in the distance. “Come, we must move quickly today.”

Runi refused to speak more on the topic of Vampire Gifts, instead he pushed everyone to gather what was needed, and move it to the new house. The last trip to the house, included the staked Vampire Franklin, being controlled by Runi.

They worked well into the morning hours, only stopping when the sun finally started to rise. They were right back at it that evening when the sun finally went down. While none of them liked the sheer number of Bonded that were hanging around, none of them could refute the fact that waking up, and having breakfast ready for them, was a treat.

Hank woke up to a start though. First off, he wasn’t used to waking up on such a large bed. A bed that was shrouded in a dark red canopy at that. When he finally remembered where he was, and was able to move from the middle of the huge bed, to the edge, he got another shock. The twins were waiting there, one holding a towel, the other a robe. It took Hank a moment to realize that they were not wearing anything, and neither was he.

The girl, Elizabeth, was holding the robe, and held it out so he could put it on, with her help of course. “We have drawn your bath Master.” Edward said in a hopeful voice. “We did not know what temperature you would like your bath, so drew it to the temperature that Master Anton liked.”

“Will you allow us to help you?” Elizabeth said with a worried quaver in her voice, when Hank did not move. As much as he wanted to scream at them to get dressed, to leave the room while he was not dressed, he did neither. While his Master viewed having Human slaves as abhorrent, he did know more than a few Vampires who felt differently. Hank also knew that these two children did not know any different. To change it now would be damaging to them.

With a smile on his face, and rage seething beneath the surface, Hank stood up, turned around, and allowed Elizabeth to drape the robe over his shoulders. The two children led Hank to a large tub set into the floor, that was easily ten foot around. Once he was seated, each child took a washcloth and began to bathe him. “Winston has asked that we explain what our position is, as he believes that you may have the wrong impression.” Edward started, and his sister picked right up.

“We are more than just body servants, although we were trained by the very best since birth.”

“Once we reached six years of age, and the proper Bonding age, Master Anton also had us tested for intelligence.”

“We both scored extremely high.” Hank was twisting his head back and forth between first Edward and then Elizabeth as they tag teamed him. “So Master Anton made sure that we were educated to the fullest our abilities would allow.”

“We may look to be nine, be we are actually twelve, as of last month.” Edward said, causing Hank to gasp a little.

“We both received our GED last year, and are working on our Business Management degrees online. Elizabeth said as Edward took a breath, and gently pushed Hank forward so the boy could wash Hank’s back. When Elizabeth paused, Edward spoke again.

“The reason we are telling you this, is so that you understand our secondary role. Every morning while we bathe you, we also inform you on what has happened during the day.”

“Before the sun goes down, we meet with every member of the House, and gather the important information that you, as our Lord needs to know.” Elizabeth said as her hands worked their way down his legs.

“You then have the chance to tell us what you would like to see from the Bonded, and what their orders are.” Edward spoke as he moved from Hank’s butt, to his crotch. Hank couldn’t help but gasp as the boy expertly washed his genitals.

“Winston may be the House First, but we are the ones that run everything.” Elizabeth said as she stood in front of him.

“At least we were…” Edward said as he moved to stand next to his sister.

“We wish to ask that you Bond us, and allow us to continue in our duties.” Elizabeth said after a few moments of silence.

“Oh boy.” Hank said softly as his mind reeled with new information.

Colt sank down on the grass panting. “You really are a slave driver.” He said looking up to Daniel.

“Yes he is.” Christina said as she sank to the ground next to him, Danny falling down next to her.

“Oh come on!” Daniel said with a grin. “We’ve only been at this for an hour now. I thought kids were supposed to have more energy than us old guys.”

“Let me shift, and I will!” Colt said with a grin.

“Oh no. You may have had some training, but I want you better before you try and do some of this in your War Form. You’re likely to hurt yourself or someone else… and those claws looked REALLY sharp.” Daniel said with a small smile.

“They are.” Christina responded with a grin.

“You are impossible!” Daniel said with a chuckle as he threw up his hands. “Okay fine. Get some water, but I want to continue in ten.”

Colt jumped to his feet, then reached down and helped Chris to her feet. They both turned when they heard a small voice say. “What about me?” They turned around and saw Danny sitting on the ground, one hand held up in the air. “You forgetting about your favorite brother already?”

Chris looked down at Danny and shook her head. “Nope. As soon as I have a favorite brother though…”

“HEY!” Danny said, then she reached down, grabbed him, and yanked him up to his feet, then wrapped an arm around his head, and proceeded to rub the top of his head, hard with her knuckles. “HEY! STOP THAT!”

The three of them laughed as they walked back towards the house. Until they got about halfway there. As one both Chris and Colt stopped dead in their tracks, their heads cocked towards the south. Colt was the first one that snap shifted into his War Form, his clothes exploding from his body. He threw his head back and howled out what could only be a challenge, before he took off at a full charge into the woods. Christina was right on his heels, as Colt merely bowled through the first couple of saplings, not bothering to go around them.

“What the hell am I going to do with all these Bonded?” Hank asked Runi and Lugh softly. They had just finished the meal, and were now sitting in Hank’s office. “I can’t just let the Bond break for them. Especially the children. I’ve seen what happens as a Bonded quickly ages to where they should be. It’s torture!”

“I know.” Runi said softly. “However, you do realize that you do not have to Bond them all to you.” Hank looked at him puzzled, then slowly started nodding.

“True.” He said slowly. “As long as I find someone suitable to Bond them to… then I don’t need to take them all.”

“You do need to Bond the twins.” Lugh said in a very soft voice, causing Hank’s eyes to close hard. “I know you don’t like it. Hell I don’t either. But they are what they are, and trying to change them now would not be easy, or good for them.”

“At least Master Anton never touched them sexually.” Hank said after a few moments of silence. “I would never be able to do that if that’s what they needed.” Finally he stood and started to move towards the door.

“What are you doing?” Lugh said quickly as he jumped to his feet.

Hank, stopped, turned and looked confused at Lugh. “I… I was just going to ask Winston to ask the twins to come here so I could bond them.”

“Sit.” Lugh said pointedly, motioning to the chair behind the desk. “You need to learn to act like a House Lord. That means telling the youngest Vampire in the room to summon who you wish.”

Hank groaned out, causing both Runi and Lugh to chuckle. “Just remember.” Lugh said as he moved towards the door. “You wanted this bad enough to impale yourself on your enemy’s sword…” Lugh quickly opened the door, and ducked out before Hank could reply.

Less than a minute later, a knock came on the door. “Enter.” Hank said from his position behind the desk.

When Lugh entered, his facial expression was schooled, not showing any emotion. “Lord,” Lugh started, “Bonding Prospects Elizabeth and Edward Millsworth are here as you commanded.”

“Thank you.” Hank said. “Please bring them before me.”

Lugh opened the door fully and walked in, the twins right behind him. They held their heads high, but their eyes were cast to the floor. Lugh moved to the side, as the twins moved to stand before Hank’s desk. ‘They need the full ritual.’ Hank heard Runi say in his mind, and he responded with a barely perceptible nod. Hank waited for maybe a full minute before he rose from his seat. As proper decorum dictated, Runi also rose when the House Lord did.

Hank moved around the desk to stand in front of the twins. As soon as he stopped, they both went down to a knee. Hank waited for a few seconds before he told them to rise. When they did, they still kept their eyes downcast. “What is it that you wish to ask of me.” Hank said in a clear, firm voice.

“We wish to dedicate our lives in your service.” Elizabeth spoke softly, yet in a clear voice.

“What is it that you would do for me?” Hank asked, looking down his nose at the two children.

“Anything that you desire Master.” Edward said quickly.

“Our lives would be dedicated to you, for as long as you would have us.” Elizabeth said when her brother stopped.

“You have been fully trained in what a Bonded’s responsibilities are?”

“Yes Master.” They said in unison.

Hank looked them over for a few seconds before he nodded. “So be it.” He said sharply. “I accept you both.” He then held out his wrists for the twins. They each took one, and without any hesitation, brought it to their lips, and each one bit down hard enough that their human teeth were able to pierce Hank’s skin, allowing his blood to run into their mouths. They each took a mouthful, swallowed, and allowed the blood to fill their mouths one last time. They both swallowed, then pulled Hank’s wrists from their mouths, holding down tightly to the place where their teeth had punctured Hank’s skin. “Thank you Master.” They both said, then bowed their heads.

“You may both sit over there.” Hank said, indicating the couch, as he moved back to his seat behind the desk. The injuries to his wrists already healed. When everyone was seated, he looked at the twins. “You are to report to Daniel, he is my Steward. However, please inform him that your duties will be the same as they were for Anton, unless I decide to change them in the future.”

“Yes Master.” They both said in unison.

“Now what to do with Winston.” Hank said as he sat back, looking at Runi and Lugh.

“Actually.” Runi said with a smile. “If you will allow it, I would like to take him into my service.” Hank and Lugh both looked shocked, causing Runi to chuckle. “Anton may have done many things that I do not care for, but one thing he did do very well is to instruct his Seneschal in the traditional ways. Ways that I am very used to, and comfortable with.”

Hank nodded and grinned. “If you want.”

“Thank you.” Runi said as he sat back. Before anyone else could say anything else, a knock came to the door. Edward was on his feet instantly, and moved to the door. He reached his hand out for the doorknob, but turned to Hank for permission first. When Hank nodded, Edward opened the door, to reveal both Winston and another, a Vampire, standing there.

Hank slowly rose to his feet as he looked at the Vampire. The man’s long red hair, framing his angular face. “I gave you my leave to find another House.” He said through gritted teeth.

The man stood there with his head bowed. “Yes Elder you did.” He then raised his head and looked Hank in the eyes. “However, I would like to remain.”

Hank turned his head to the side in question. “You wish to remain? To become part of my House?”

“Yes Elder.” The man said. “If you would have me.”

“What’s your name?” Hank asked, as he moved slowly around the desk.

“Declan Elder. Declan Price.” The man said, then in a rush continued. “I am a Fledgling, only fourteen years into Darkness.”

“Anton was your Sire?” Hank asked, and the man nodded. “So no one else would take you?”

“I did not ask.” He said, then continued. “I spent today in an abandoned house nearby. I did not like much of what my Master did, but I did not have a say. I have heard much about you, mostly from my former Master’s cursing. I think I would prefer to learn from you, than from him.”

Hank stood there looking at the man, considering exactly how to handle this situation, when the night was shattered with a Wolf’s scream of rage. His eyes darted towards Runi, but only in time to see the smaller boy run out of the room with Lugh right behind. Hank quickly moved around Declan and ran after Runi and Lugh.

Runi knew the Howl that Colt gave. There was a shifter nearby, and Colt was challenging them. Runi reached out with his own sense, but did not feel another Wolf, other than Colt and Chris. He ran as fast as he could, out of the house, and into the woods. His keen senses knowing exactly where Colt and Christina had gone, and the fact that they were both in their War Forms.

When he entered the clearing, Runi was so shocked, he almost tripped over his own feet as he came to a halt. He saw Colt and Christina standing there, Colt standing a few feet in front of Chris who was slightly to his left. In front of the two Wolves was a Human with his back to a tree. The thing that brought Runi up short though was the eleven-foot-tall Bear that stood between the two Wolves and the Human. Runi shook his head. No, that was no Bear. The features were too Human-like, too Were-like. The Bear threw his head back and roared loud enough to shake the nearby trees. He extended his wicked looking claws, and took a step forward towards the two Wolves. Colt wasted no time, and launched himself towards the Bear. Runi reacted with a quickness that no one even saw.

Being as old and powerful as he was, he still did not want to get between the two who were now charging at each other. Instead, he pulled from his mind a gift that he had not used for a long time. His hand flung out and pointed to the space between the two. With a crack that drowned out both the Bear and the Wolves’ angry roars, a huge blue bolt of lightning fell from the sky.

The resulting concussion from the thunder threw both combatants well away from each other. Colt slammed into Christina, which pushed them both back and through a medium sized tree. The Bear flew back, and thankfully the Human ducked, as the Bear crashed into the tree that the Human was pressed against.

Colt was the first one to get to his feet, and growled at Runi for interfering. Runi just gave him a look, and Colt deflated. Runi then turned towards the Bear, and saw that it too had risen to its feet. To Runi’s utter amazement, the Bear started to shift. Moments later a tall, lean young man stood there, his eyes still glued to Runi. He then dropped to his knees. “Old Friend,” the man spoke in a clear voice, “Grandfather Thunder told us to seek you out.”

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