When a writer looks back on writing a short Novella and spin off series such as this, you can't help but realize how much effort and imagination has been put into the project, and with that in mind, I'd firstly like to thank Richelle Mead for creating the Vampire Academy Fantasy world in which each and every one of us loves to live in, and Razor Bill for publishing her works.

Without the on-going support of Adelle, Jace, Abigail and Dims, for their constant nagging and mind altering states, I wouldn't have found the patience and dedication that I would have needed to continue writing. For Isabella, a child I'm certainly fond of; And finally Yeshe; a sister with whom I can get lost in the world of Fantasy with.

I am forever in debt to you all.

- Alexandra

VA SPIN OFF: ST. Vladimir

PREFACE

MONTANA, AMERICA

SEPTEMBER 1892

"Vladimir, we've done it! We've Graduated, I'm finally, and officially you're Guardian!" Anna's womanly voice echoed around the room and into his ears, her voice sounded so captivating, so relieved, and so blissful. He didn't even need to look at her. He could feel it.

He could see that she was wearing a fitted black outfit, and what looked like very-high black-heeled boots. It was what he called a 'Typical Anna' look. And my god, she looked beautiful. She looked so beautiful in fact - that he was ashamed she had anything to do with the element Spirit, especially dealing with the dreadful side-effects, regardless of their bond and friendship - She was too innocent for this lifestyle.

Her expression was filled with nothing but utter faith and pure bliss, but better yet; how could it not have been? This was the one thing they both craved for together. Freedom.

Before Vladimir was fully aware of his surroundings, he found himself caught deep within an embrace with her. Anna though had that tendency to be noticeably unpredictable, though, he should have seen this coming, especially because of the bond.

"We have... my dear" he finally murmured into her ear, his Russian accent very noticeable, with the slightest hint of affection. Pausing slightly, in Vladimir's usual way, he tightened the embrace he found himself in, and pressed his lips onto her forehead for a few long moments. "We have both done it."

The smell of her scent, the smile that she gave, and the assurance she always willingly let him borrow, drove him more insane than he already was. He knew she loved him - but in all honesty, she was far out of his league. She was beautiful, so beautiful in fact, that it killed him every time that he saw her.

The only problem today though, was that he was drunk.