Chapter 2

Mikhail kissed Raven and smiled down at her while she held their son. He turned to Gregori who was closely guarding him. "I can tell you hate this."

"Standing out in the middle of a valley with my daughters and your son is not something I can just casually accept." Savannah smiled and shook her head. She and Skyler were holding Mikhail's grandaughters.

"All the warriors are here as well," Mikhail pointed out. "This ceremony has not been performed for hundreds of years." Mikhail was determined to bring back some of the ancient traditions. While nothing was certain, the mantel of power could pass on to his son someday. It was important that all warriors gather for this event, to formally recognize his son.

"I didn't say I objected to the ritual itself. Your son may very well be the next prince and so this ceremony marks the dawn of a new generation in your bloodline. I'm just not thrilled to be out in the open where any vampire can easily see us."

"Let them see," said Mikhail in a calm voice. "Let them see how the Carpathian people continue to grow strong. Although Xavier continues to be a threat, we are now gaining ground and there is once again a feeling of hope."

Gabrielle and Lucian stepped forward to lead an ancient chant. Soon every Carpathian was raising their voice, chanting the old language as they paid their respect to the Dubrinski family and the birth of a new child. When the chanting stopped, Desari stepped forward and began to sing, her voice captivating everyone. Mikhail was told by Gabrielle and Lucian that this particular song was composed even before their time. The last time it had been sung was at this same ceremony after his own birth.

Once more the Carpathian people joined in, singing in their ancient tongue. Mikhail swelled with pride as his people welcomed his son. He closed his eyes for a moment, taking in the sound of his people who for a moment in time, were in celebration and not war.

But the sound of a male singing caught his attention. Desari's voice usually was the highest and sweetest sound to be heard. But surprisingly, this voice even rose above her. He opened his eyes and noted Gregori was on full alert after hearing the same voice.

Who is it? asked Mikhail privately to Gregori.

I do not recognize him.

By now, several of the warriors had even glanced behind them, wondering who was singing. And then Mikhail saw a dark figure far off in the distance emerge on top of the hill. It was simply astounding that despite the distance, this warrior's voice could be heard above all others.

The song reached its peak with Desari singing in a voice which reached heights like no other Mikhail had ever known.

But the male's voice was still stronger.

My God, Gregory, said Mikhail. Do you feel it?

Gregory did not reply but the prince knew his second in command was experiencing a connection with every living Carpathian. Only when Mikhail and Gregori unleashed their unified power during a battle was anything like this felt before.

Mikhail noted even Desari seemed surprised, glancing toward the hill where the warrior stood. Gregori stepped closer to him, positioning himself to defend the prince should it be necessary. The song finished with the warrior's voice echoing throughout the valley, the notes fading with a soft breeze. Every warrior bowed with respect in acknowledgement of Mikhail's position and that of his son.

Every warrior except the ancient who remained standing on the hill in the distance.

Gregori gave a low hiss, narrowing his eyes at the male. Mikhail, in his peaceful demeanor, simply held up his hand before speaking in a calm voice. "Warriors, we thank you for honoring my family and pledging your allegiance to serve our people. All are welcome to return to my home as honored guests." He intentionally made sure to say this while looking at the warrior who stood alone and distant from all others.

We do not yet know who he is, growled Gregori.

As the crowd of warriors began to disperse, Mikhail watched as the ancient transformed into a large grey owl that flew to a nearby tree. The owl watched him for a moment of time, as if trying to decide if he should accept Mikhail's invitation.

The wind began to pick up and Raven huddled close to him. Mikhail placed his arm around her, nuzzling the top of her head for a moment. When he looked back at the tree, the owl was no where in sight.

Lucian and Gabrielle suddenly appeared in front of him. He noted the look of concern on their faces and Mikhail sighed as he knew they did din not believe his invitation to the unknown warrior was wise.. "You're not going to give me a lecture as well, are you? I have your little brother who does that job just fine." He expected some light hearted remark in return, but the twins glanced at each other, most likely exchanging communication between them. "Tell me," demanded Mikhail impatiently.

Gabrielle spoke first. "We believe we remember him."

Mikhail crossed his arms over his chest. "And? What is his name?"

"He is called the SongMaker."

"SongMaker?" asked Mikhail, raising an eyebrow.

They both nodded. "It is said he actually created not only some of the ancient songs, but also some of the healing chants," added Lucian.

"Interesting," murmured Mikhail. "So he is from your time? An ancient around your age?"

The twins hesitated.

"Well? Yes or no?" asked Mikhail in exasperation.

It was Gabrielle who answered. "We were children."

"Children as in how old? In those days even fifty years of age was considered a child of our race."

Lucian slowly shook his head. "We have one memory of him, Mikhail. We remember, sitting in a circle with other children around a fire while he sang to us." He paused and then continued. "We were no more than six or seven years old."

"Impossible!" hissed Gregori. "Both of you are thousands of years old."

"He is the oldest," insisted Lucian.

Mikhail stared back at the tree where the owl had been. "Then we must meet with him." He looked at the twins. "Will he accept the invitation to my home?"

Both twins nodded. "He will come."