Annie was taught and trained by Trista over the next few weeks it took to reach their destination, Vampire Mountain.
"Now there are 5 Princes," Trista explained as they sat in an ice-covered cave. "They are at the highest point of authority. There is Mika Ver Leth, Paris Skyle, Arrow, Vancha March, and our youngest and newest Prince, Darren Shan….that's funny….you two have the same last names…," Trista mused, "But remember those names: Mika, Paris, Arrow, Vancha, and Darren."
'Darren,' Annie thought, ' It must be just a coincidence…right? Darren is dead, he's been dead for years. It's impossible…but…' Annie sighed. It was weird, but she could just imagine her brother sitting on a throne in front of hundreds of vampires.
"I'm going to sleep, the sun's coming up. If you want to walk around a bit, go ahead." Trista yawned. "Just be careful, there are a few bears around here."
Annie got up and started to leave the cave.
"Trista?" She turned around. "DO you know what he looks like…Darren Shan?"
"Sorry, I haven't seen him yet. Like most vampires, I have not been to Vampire Mountain in 12 years. That's when council is. Anything else?"
"No…I was just wondering…"
Annie stepped outside into the cold, but bearable weather. She tread through the partially snow covered ground to a half frozen river and sat on a rock. Gazing in the river, Annie saw a small tear run down her face. The sun was now high in the sky, nut clouds quickly covered it. The thought of her brother pained Annie too much for her to handle.
A small white rabbit slowly hopped to the side of the river. 'I hate to do this…' Annie thought. Before the little creature could react, Annie grabbed the rabbit's neck and twisted. With a small cry it lay limp in her hands. She ripped a handful of fur off its body, revealing pink skin. Annie ran a sharp nail over it's skin, trying to find a vein. Finding one, she pierced it, and drank.
'Was this all worth it?' She thought.
