Chapter 7) The Family Business
Before Reading:
Ok I know it's been a few weeks but I had decided to wait until after The Originals came back on and after TVD's 100th episode. What did you guys think of it! I don't even know how to describe it the Klaroline scene had me almost crying but then squealing with joy! Maybe there's some way I can integrate that last meeting into the stories history but I'm still not sure. Anyway, everything I said would be put in was so long I had to divide it all up. The next part will be up in a few days.
BTW, the music on the shows is always so awesome to hear with the plot so seeing as how I view my story like a caroline spin off I'm gonna add the music that inspires my writing.
Disclaimer: I do not own TVD or TO or Zombie by the cranberries
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Italic means their speaking in Russian
Bold means flashback or emphasis
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Yes, he is Kristof.
I still don't remember entirely too much about him but from what I gathered, he's this hot guy I've danced with; however, there is more familiarity with him than just two people who've crossed paths. I mean he's from our exact time era so he's gotta play something important with the family.
I shuffled awkwardly to myself, not even realizing I had spaced out in thought.
Both he and father grinned in a pleased manner but we had to crack the tension. Father cleared his throat to move forward with the rein-counter. "I believe you two have some catching up to do. Much like with the rest of us" he patted my back and kissed my temple before walking around us towards the exit behind Kristof
"Do meet the others and I in the common room shortly" he turned to both of us and left, shooting one final smile at me. I then noticed that two other people had come into the room and soon followed my father out after picking up the possibly dead bodies of the witches that had collapsed around me. I moved to ask but the door behind them was closing before I could speak.
After the door moved shut from his leave, Kristof turned back to me with his same pleasant smile he carried in my small recollection of him. His hair was obviously shorter than the past and styled with slick pushed back locks, kinda like a Ben Barnes look, and dressed in semi-casual attire.
"It has been so long…." his voice was slightly above a whisper "…yet seeing you feels like just yesterday"
Suddenly he took two large strides towards me and I was taken forward from around my waist.
Oh my, gosh!
Caroline was still the most prominent part of me so all I could repeat in my head was "Caroline, what have you gotten yourself into?"
My eyes widened like two huge saucers. He's kissing me!
I had frozen in total shock and confusion at the spontaneous turn of events but quickly pulled away by pushing against his chest. His arm still held me to him but my face was stupefied "Y-your Kristof" I breathed out "w-why did you just kiss me?" I half shrieked.
His eyes had widened as mine did after my pulling away and glaring. His head turning slightly in wonder as he looked down at me but my question still demanded an answer.
Looking around in thought, he finally released his arm from around me but stayed standing close. I took this chance to give myself my personal space back.
A smile then graced his face and his eye brows knitted together "Forgive me, Natalia. Seeing your face, hearing you call me by my name. I assumed my place in your memories had been restored"
I turned my head slightly with a questioning look at hearing this.
His smile stayed in place as he moved around me, towards the bar and served a cup of Cognac, his smile never faltering despite my confusion.
"From what I hear, the memories come back in pieces but you can never predict precisely which one's will come sooner or later" his voice flaunted a playful annoyed tone. Upon pouring another, he held the second glass out to me.
It took a few seconds but I approached him and took the glass offered to me.
We both hesitated in taking the first sip, presuming to wait for the other to do so and during this I reflected how father declared my time to speak with him so willingly after our recent reunion. I have no doubt he knows everything about us, that he is closer to the family than any other aristocrat…
"Then help me out. What is your story?" I inquired, cocking my head analyzing.
His smile widened, taking a moment to look down at the floor before back up at me. "I have known your father for many years; far before our species came into existence, during times of battle for power and survival. We faced many feuds as your family did" So they were ally's. Yes I can feel it, he too was of great diplomatic power
"Prince of a nearby province…" I mused and he nodded, pleased at my recollection "…just taken the thrown"
"Indeed…" he swirled his drink "Our provinces were allies, friends…. Family" My eyes narrowed skeptically at that last assertion.
He then clinked my glass with his "….with I standing as your betrothed"
My jaw slowly slackened while looking back at him, finally taking a sip of his Cognac.
Swallowing it down, his eyes looked back at me with truth in their nonverbal meaning; without even noticing, I had let my glass fall from my hand.
"What?"
When I expected to hear the shattering of glass, Kristof had reacted to catch it slightly above the ground without a single drop spilt.
I couldn't look away from him as he stood straight back up, looking back at me with as much intensity.
I turned away and began pacing; as I came to realize from my enlightenment that I had indeed been in a committed union with someone in the past. This is so crazy I could feel the ache in the back of my head building up again.
Finally blinking around and closing my mouth. I looked back at him and I suddenly felt a flash take over my eyes….
One of father's advisors had sent for me and I made my entrance into the throne room. Coming closer, I took note of the presence of two guests before my father.
Approaching them, I curtseyed "I am here, father. You wished a word with me"
"Indeed" he affirmed.
Turning to face me, it was Lord Kristof who was meeting with my father. I gave him a curtsey as well "Good day, princess" he smiled.
I returned one as well "Good day, always a pleasure to have you in our home my lords"
From where he stood, father took a few steps down before us.
"My dear daughter, I have excellent news" he boomed and directed his arm to Kristof "The Lord Kristof has graciously come to request your hand in matrimony" My eyes widened at this and I was left breathless as I looked at Lord Kristof once again "And I whole heartedly approve" he finished.
Kristof stepped forward to me with a bow and took my hand that was limply hanging at my side "That is, if she will accept me…" he gave my hand a tender kiss while looking up at me with the most sincere and charming puppy dog eyes he could muster. I was still in awe over this turn of events…
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"So our dear cousin is now engaged to Lord Kristof…" I came to a halt outside the common room at hearing Theodora's voice refer to me.
"Indeed, he came before our uncle this afternoon to request her hand" Tatianna declared from her place in the room "He is now formally courting her"
I peered inside to see my cousins sitting around the living room setting having tea and pastries.
"Argh, to have such a man…" Lenora dramatically placed a land over her head in admiration "…how fortunous of her" I fumbled quietly with the sleeve on my right hand. Yes it is all so overwhelming, to finally be engaged is something a girl anticipates her whole life yet now that it is here, the idea is so nerve wrecking.
"Out of all the eligible ladies I cannot believe he chose her" Stasya exalted in disbelief before taking a sip from her cup.
"Well, she is the MOST eligible candidate" Tatianna noted, sitting in her place next to Stasya with an open novel in her hands.
"What can she give of benefit to him that I cannot" She demanded, eyes narrowed "We are of the same family, same title, and I am only 6 years his junior whereas she is 9 years" she declared hotly.
Tatianna shook her head at Stasya's behavior "However great our family rule extends, uncle Vladimir's province is much greater than our fathers, it is the largest Kingdom and with Megara recently married to Lord Fillip, Natalia seems to be the next best option" I felt my heart sink at this….
To marry for the purpose of personal benefit, I didn't like that idea at all.
What have I agreed to? Is that all this arrangement is?
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"Natalia please wait!" Kristof took hold of my forearm, stopping me from storming away. A union has been built on much less, that I know but I could not hold in the feeling of humiliation after confronting Kristof. I don't want that to be my life!
I looked back at him with a scowl "Where did you hear such nonsense?!" he eagerly inquired an explanation.
"Can you look my in the eye to say it is not true?" my voice was cold. I tried to turn away again but he once again pulled me back to face him, in doing so releasing my arm and cupping my face with his hands.
"My love" he pleaded "I cannot deny that a union such as ours brings underway a series of mutual benefits between both our kingdoms but politics aside" I had tried to look away but his hands gently shook my face to keep my gaze in place "you have captured my heart ever since that first time we danced together almost 3 years ago" a lump formed in the back of my throat at hearing this.
"Yes our union will issue a total alliance of what's yours is mine and what's mine is yours but" his thumb brushed my cheek "a woman so kind, so smart, so devoted, with your laughter, your spirit and your beauty…. To have had your friendship for three years, I now wish you to stand as my wife" a tear had fallen from my cheek at hearing such amazing words…
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I finally blinked repeatedly in my reaction to being brought back to reality. Kristof was still standing before me, close and his eyes blinked in reaction as well, taking in the state of mind I just returned from..
I looked back at him in wonder; that was another flashback.
Hope filled his eyes… "You just had another recollection"
Did he see that? I then took notice of the blazing cold gusts filling the room; the large windows must have burst open….
He stepped away to close them but still looking back to me.
"Forgive me, your recollections leave you in a vulnerable state which allows me to see into your thoughts" he humbly explained with an apologetic look.
Ah, how vampires can see into dreams while people sleep.
I run my hands through my hair to soothe out the blood thumping that reaches up to my ears "Another 3 little pieces out of the monster size jig saw" I sighed in disbelief "A picture that could take centuries to fill in" The idea is just maddening. With a new answer come's a thousand new questions. This experience is … overwhelming.
It's like two girls, two minds, just collided into one…
Letting my hands fall back down to my sides, I slowly looked back to Kristof as he came before me once again. Looking over his handsome face there was definitely familiarity there, in those memories.
Gosh, when I looked at how I had planned out the beginning of my immortal journey, I never in my wildest dreams would have imagined I'd be facing everything I've see in the past 24 hours.
"Kristof" I muttered trying to clear my thoughts "would you, tell me more about us?"
A very amiable smile then grew on his face and I couldn't help but let a half smile peak through, finally taking hold of the drink he had offered for a sip. Yes, they say curiosity killed the cat but, now there's this growing need inside me. I've just gotta know more….
"Well those close to me can call me Kris" he held his hand out for me to take and ushered me over to sit on my father's chair as he leaned against the desk.
"We knew each other for many years through our families, yet it wasn't til we were both fully grown at one of your father's balls that we truly began to get to know each other" that was one of the parts I did remember.
"And it was in the latter years of our lives that the revolts were growing. After that time, we began our friendship, our involvements, our acquaintance" his hand was slowly reaching from the desk to the arm chair "Til the day, I chose to court you and seek your hand in marriage" his voice had somewhat lowered with that last statement "6 months before you had to be….. taken away" His hand was very softly lingering over where mine rested on the arm of the chair.
That last gulp I held, swallowing down very slowly. I shifted awkwardly, feeling his gaze looking down at me.
"Natalia…" I couldn't help but shiver slightly at hearing my previous name. It was foreign but nostalgic too "it wasn't about advantages or commodity. We had love" I looked back up to Kristof feeling bewildered "and it has transcended time" he whispered, spacing his fingers between my own. A sinking feeling was growing in my stomach "we were little away from our wedding before the attacks in your own home and your father had to-" he shook his head deciding to skip over our first attempt at turning.
He's a very considerate guy. His voice is warm and consoling, the idea of my being in love with him wasn't too farfetched an idea yet I still pulled my hand out from under his.
Despite all that, I know that I feel nothing for the guy that's sitting in front of me right now.
Kristoff is attractive, he seems nice but that's all I see. I began to shake my head softly at this whole encounter, him understanding my predicament with the little recollection I have of him. My growing up, those three years of friendship are mostly blank. How can I be fair about this? Yes, I knew him but all I feel is a fond soft spot for an old friend. This isn't love at first sight, or true loves reawakening kiss. Yeah, he triggered more memories but, it wasn't enough. Heck the idea of my getting married is shocking.
His hand that had once been over mine reached softly under my chin to lift up my face, seeing him flash a comforting smile. "It'll be alright" I couldn't help but give a half smile again at his condolence, and wondered
"So…. Am I supposed to believe you waited almost 700 years like a monk?" if you catch my drift; my attempt at lightening the mood.
He suddenly burst with an awkward laugh, rubbing the back of his head and eyes scattering all over the room with embarrassment. I smirked at this, not meaning to tease him that far. I wouldn't expect anyone to. He finally smiled with me, sitting up straight and finally looking back at me in the eyes.
"We all have our history Natalia. Though our era was much different than the one at present, though we've evolved into new people, you continue to stand alone in my eyes, Natalia" My smile was slowly getting smaller at this because I could feel the nervousness rising up once again in me "I care not for our pasts. All I know is, I have waited so long for….. our future"
The way he said that, no I just couldn't look back up at him. My face was probably as beat red as a potato. Those were very romantic words but this new development is too much to process. I'm a reputable medieval times duchess mixed with a peppy, battle-ax, modern day actress so these feelings are running though me in all sorts of ways.
"Kristof…" I took hold of the hand that had once rested under my face, holding it caringly between both of mine as I looked back at him. Everything about him was so heart-warming but….
"I'm a new person now. After 700 years you can't hold me to what was…." He silenced me as he pulled his hand away; his smile never faltering.
"Natalia, you don't have to feel like you're under any obligation to me" my eyes widened at his comprehension. "These are new times, and we are immortal" his hand then took hold again of mine "But I have no doubt you will once again discover what we shared" he kissed my knuckles "I will not abandon hope"
I was completely at loss of words to this. I didn't know what to think of the idea of that happening because I felt doubtful yet somewhat awed at the complete self-awareness of my previous self to come in time. Could this really be what destiny wants?
He then stood from the desk, pulling me up along-side him "Anyhow, we should join the others in the common room"
He led me out of the room, his hand never releasing my fingers. It actually felt very natural being escorted like this; it was an old custom after all.
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We had made our way downstairs to one of the Kremlin's private living quarters. Each turn as stunning and lavish as the last. Kristof brought me to an elegant setting, with a fireplace and windows that overlooked the park but what stood out were the three tall figures and one small one sitting among the living room setting, the men conversing over a brandy. I still can't get over how the Russian language has come flooding back into me like pure English.
I was the first to halt; our connected hands made Kristof turn back to me, questioningly as the three men faced us.
"Caroline your back" Lily's small frame had swooshed right over to hug me around the waist. I returned it upon feeling the contact but couldn't look away from the others in the room.
My father is here and the two others, yes I know them for sure. I may not feel any big recollection coming on but just seeing their faces triggers the recognition. Looking back at me with undivided attention …sat my uncles.
"Has your enlightenment fairly restored your knowledge of us, sister" she looked up at me, eyes filled with curiosity. I briefly shot a glance down at her, while she continued to hug me, patting her back.
I smiled down at Lily "Fairly" I noted between us "It's getting there"
My little half -sister, wow; looking back at her I noted her features seemed different to me. Yes she looked exactly the same as yesterday and this morning but, doing my calculations she was only 7 when we died. She actually got to live a little longer the second time round.
"Ah Natalia" I looked back to the male figures in the room. Kristof had sat himself among them. I think its…..yes, Uncle Maxim walked forward "she is as radiant as the day Alexandria gave birth to her" he put his hand to my cheek and kissed my forehead, then also patting Lily's head.
He motioned for us to sit with them. Somewhat nervous, I followed Lily to sit beside her and Kristof on one of the sofa's. "Yes she is, I trust you recognize your father's brothers, my dear" uncle Feodor chuckled to himself and stood to give me a big friendly hug, which I returned.
"Of course I do" It came out softer than I thought, but I couldn't help myself with this little reunion.
"They've missed your dearly, princess. This has been a long time coming" father held his brandy out in a toasting manner "you're here where you belong. That is what matters"
Where I belong…..
Moscow, Russia
The thought still juggling in my head, he's right…..
"My father Grand Prince Vladimir" I mused over what I knew "My uncle's Grand Prince Feodor, and Grand Prince Maxim" I looked to them before finishing what I had left out in the titles "The House of Aleksandrovich"
Nodding, they each looked so bold and proud. They were brothers indeed. You could tell by their similar features that they were related. The similar eyes and jaw line, while only differing with light brown and dirty blonde hair from my father's pitch dark locks.
"You are an Aleksandrovich my beloved daughter." He asserted the notion "Natalia, tell us of your taking in these newfound discoveries"
With all the craziness in my head and emotions running wild it's hard to know where to begin. How could I form this into words "I feel more self-aware….."
I fumbled with my rings and bracelets, trying to get a rhythm on going about this.
"I can still distinguish between myself as Caroline and myself as Natalia, like trying to separate the fragments mixed together" Lily leaned towards me in wonder
"It starts like seeing yourself live moments you don't remember happening?" she reasoned from her experience and her deduction was right on target. I nodded at this.
"From there, I can see the memories that have come back and I know deep down that this is who I was. The more I think to myself, the more knowledge comes rushing back to me but at the same time this memory lane is filled with a lot of dark holes. As if I've lived a new 27 years while barely recovering from amnesia" Or trying to figure out what happened the next morning after a night of getting wasted, either comparison works.
"It will get easier with time, once more past experiences are filled in your identity will feel whole once again" Uncle Feodor consoled.
"All the girls have been through it, being around the figures of your past helps trigger the knowledge which is why your place is here with us" Uncle Maxim added in. With how Kristof prompted 3 more flashbacks into me, he has a point.
I gave a soft smile, pushed my hair behind my ears, looking down onto my lap while Lily rested her head onto my arm with reassurance. My family…..
For the first time in years I, I felt that homey feeling in my heart once again.; a feeling of melancholy but nostalgia as well. My gosh, only hours ago I had been so shaky about facing these people again but now my point of view had done a complete 180 on all this. Progressing a new chapter in my career and life was my number one goal here but now, it's about a journey to the past.
Kristof was chatting quietly to my father as my uncle's then asked "My dear niece, do you now feel any new capacities within your hold?" I gave a quizzical look at this.
"Any new sensations within you?" the other added.
Are they referring to the brain trauma? I shook my head though still not entirely sure what kind of response they were expecting. I feel as normal a vampire as ever.
Even as they drank, their eyes were fixed on me for any new answer.
Suddenly feeling parched I reached for the wine bottle sitting on the table, along with a light glass. From the smell that reached me I could tell it was laced with blood. The veins under my eyes could pop out at any second, seeing as how I haven't drunk any blood since yesterday.
"It's usually hidden til the emotions create the first reaction" Lily noted.
My eyebrows knitted together before taking a sip "What exactly are we trying to find here?"
"There was a particularly strange occurrence in his grace's study earlier. It could possibly be an effect but I can't be certain just yet" Kristof had informed my uncles after his conversation with my father.
"There was a similar event as my witches called back her other essence" Father added, studying me.
"Only time will tell" uncle Foedor noted "she must teach herself to tap into it."
Hello? Was anybody going to give me a clear answer as to what their looking out for?
"Memories, definitely serve as strong triggers" uncle Maxim spoke as well on the current predicament.
I stood up, moving away from my spot by the couch to stand before them all.
"Hello?" I voiced with a show of slight agitation. "is anyone going to fill me in on what their trying to figure out about me? Someone help a girl out" I threw my arms out though, careful not to spill my wine.
Suddenly, the most random thing happened. The lights started rapidly flashing high and low from light to dark.
I then gave a jump at hearing several loud shatters behind me. Looking over my shoulder, several of the light ornaments hinged to the wall were broken, releasing smoke from the strange burn out of the various bulbs.
What's going on with the wiring in this room?
A familiar woosh was heard and I automatically looked down to my now empty hand. The wine glass had been snatched.
Before even looking up, we all knew there was a new presence in the room and the flashing electric phenomena then came to a halt, returning the room to its normal lighting.
"They're referring to if your share of power has manifested itself yet"
There were two new figures in the room, both very much familiar.
Megara had now joined us, but it wasn't her voice that had spoken. It was the second girl.
"Need another example or are we to see how you compare" she smirked from her stance beside Megara, as they strolled into the room.
I cocked my head as I could feel the recognition growing
"Stasya" I named.
She confirmed by the facial gesture before taking a sip of my wine "Oh I was not forgotten"
She strutted up to me with her clicking stillettos. I was surprised by the slight hug and kiss to both cheeks "I love these reencounters. It has been far too long dear Natalia however have you been, besides dead?" she snooted. Her voice was sassy with a falsely sweet tone.
Looking around awkwardly, I wasn't really sure what to say "As soon as I got word today over in St. Petersburg I just rushed over. How about we celebrate this reunion with a nice friendly dual? First one to die loses" she declared to me with a wicked smirk as if it were an everyday custom of tea and biscuits. Seriously?
"Oh but wait, you're not a strigoi are you?" she circled me slowly, he eyes seemed taunting. "Indeed, you're like one of those other vampires." She gave a fake gasp.
"Oh dear, you can never be a pureblood. My electro kinesis would roast you in a dual" she chuckled with a shrug.
"That is enough, Stasya" Uncle Feodor declared, ushering her to sit at his side.
"Father that is always how I show love" She giggled before sipping down the rest of the wine I had served for myself.
I swallowed back the dryness in my mouth at being reintroduced to Stasya, at seeing I have a cousin. She appears briefly in the memories I do have back but other than that I don't know a whole lot about her.
Raised like a vampire Eris, there's no doubt she wouldn't look stunning with her brown hair to match her fathers and blue eyes, with a gorgeous wardrobe very similar to Megara's taste.
"These things take time my dear, Natalia struggles to get reacquainted with herself, let alone her powers. We must do all we can to train and support her" Uncle Maxim stated, moving about the room.
So that's what they were referring to. Believe it or not it had actually slipped my mind. Even my previous self knew nothing about magic or witchcraft so the idea of having any of it for my use was dumbfounding. I looked down at my hands and tapped into every sense of my body and surroundings, trying to get a feel for something different, something that wasn't there before. Tuning into everything, nothing seemed to be out of place or newly found. I felt as I usually do with the same vampire senses I've always had "Sorry to disappoint" I muttered softly, tugging my hands into my pockets.
I get a slightly more snotty attitude from her than Megara but none the less, I now realize they're my family "It's nice to see you again" my smile was vague but sincere.
Her mocking smirk and nod wasn't much of a response but personality will only give you so much.
Well alright then, "And to answer all your questions. There may be some kind of magical force inside me but if there is I have no idea how to bring it out. I feel completely normal with no other mystical senses on me" under these circumstances do I even really have any powers?
Doubt springs, but is it really that important?
I was primarily thankful though that father looked back at me with understanding and little concern over my current state.
"You said it yourselves though, emotional responses can trigger it" Suddenly my vampire senses picked up a large metal wall ornament spiraling towards me from across the room. My eyes had widened and I gasped but ducked down only inches from having it hit me.
It swerved into the wall behind me and I looked back to see that it had stuck perfectly into the wall. That could have been my neck! What the hell?
A new girl had then appeared at vampire speed, sitting casually on top of the bar as if she had patiently been waiting there this whole time. I couldn't help but give her a peculiar look.
I didn't really recognize her but her voice had definitely been familiar to me.
Her hair was a dark dirty blonde tone with grey eyes. Unlike Megara and Stasya who appeared in their early to mid-twenties, this girl looked roughly 19, fairly attractive with a more laid back fashion sense than Stasya or Megara.
"Hello, cousin"
"Theodora where are your manners?" Uncle Maxim scolded from where he sat by my father, shooting her a displeased look.
"oh I only wanted to see how she'd react father. It's exciting to see what talents come into the family next. Welcome back, Natalia" she hopped off the bar with her choice of scotch as she walked over to join us gathered around.
Theodora…. That's right. I had a flashback of a younger cousin I had with that name, though I couldn't thoroughly familiarize myself with her or the others'
"Thanks" I crossed my arms into myself and walked back to sit beside Lily "So does this family regularly greet each other so violently?"
"Oh don't be so sensitive" Stasya teased, sitting on the arm of the sofa.
"Sometimes, yes; a little family dueling with our powers gets so competitive at times" Theodora explained as she strolled around everyone sitting down yet looking back at me "No other vampire out there is like a Slavic pureblood so you can understand why we're excited to see what you've got"
"She's vampire, dear cousin, but not pureblood" Megara made quick to point it out.
Theodora automatically turned back to me, cocking her head in wonder as she scanned me over from around the couch til she was stand back right to the left of us. Is that so wrong? Do they really look down on other vampires so easily? Or maybe just on vampires outside of the strigoi bloodlines?
"Oh dear" her eyes were still wide with wonder but her face was also showing amusement at the new discovery "I could sense you were a supernatural creature but assumed they had already turned you. My, my, what will this mean?"
"Well for one, she's not an immortal like us" Stasya pointed out as she stepped up alongside Theodora.
I looked away from their studying me back down to Lily who was still smiling reassuringly from beside me. So now there's a problem with what I am? Yes, technically I could still be killed but a vampire is a vampire none the less, I mean I am classified to be incredibly strong for a vampire that's still so young and I've proved it countless times.
"Are the differences that vital?" I asked with an honest curiosity.
Looking things over….
I have my previous-self back now, the half which had the spell cast on it to mix perfectly in-tact with Slavic vampirism. If all that's needed is time for my powers to trigger and my memories to come back to me… "I don't see any real problem other than the caliber of immortality"
"Well this has never happened before. The spell served two purposes." I turned to Megara "preserve your essence, which had fused with fathers power, and assimilate it together with Slavic immortality, thus equaling a Slavic Pureblood Vampire. How do we know your ties to an Original bloodline won't prevent you from tapping into the power that was supposed to be restored along with your memories?"
Oh, well…
Way to be optimistic now. I turned to look back at my father, a sinking feeling growing in the pit of my stomach. What would that mean for me? I couldn't help but feel a worry of rejection now… like I was in a position out of place with them. Just for being different? I just found my father and sisters again, could this be something serious? They've known since yesterday I'm already a vampire, I thought they really wanted me here.
To my sudden relief, father noticed the worry in my expression and stood up to reassure "We will just have to wait to find out, at this moment what matters is that we are back together. My dears, if you please…" he motioned for his nieces to sit down; him full on ready to speak. With a nod, Theodora sat to my right, while Stasya took her place on the arm of the sofa by her father, near Megara leaning behind the same couch.
I looked eager to hear my dad's perspective on all this "Now I recognize Megara's concern, our spell did involve that combination to create the Pureblood family. The blood differences are quite peculiar" he faced me with his point of view, swirling his brandy in hand "you've seen the different predatory physical appearance, and while our blood can heal and turn others, it also can act as a performance stimulant for any other supernatural creature. Witch, werewolf, any other vampire; it is one of a purebloods most well kept secrets as our blood is simply enchanting. Mixing your essence with the bloodline of an original now, I don't know how your organism will react with it. It was after all law that one could never be both. But Natalia, dear family, fret not I have idea's either way." He announced with such confidence like there wasn't any situation he couldn't take on. He motioned his arm over to one what I assumed was one of the compelled human house maids of the kremlin carrying a large tray of wine glasses.
"Perhaps later we shall try testing things, but right now, I propose our traditional toast to this reunion" he began to hand out the glasses and took hold of another one of the wine bottles on the coffee table between us all. Popping it open, I could once again smell it was laced with blood and the dryness in my throat grew once again since I didn't have much to drink when Stasya snatched my previous cup.
Taking one for himself, he handed the bottle back to the maid for her to pour a share into each one of our glasses. Having it in hand she turned it the examine the classification
"Ah, one of our favorites, Chateau Margaux" It took a moment but we all then turned at the surprise that the maid was actually talking "delicious, but don't you think this occasion calls for a more filling treat." Even Father had looked momentarily confused but was quickly the first to begin chuckling.
Who was she?
The others then followed suit at the encounter.
"I was wondering when you'd make your entrance. Seeing your sister here, I knew you were sneaking around nearby, Lenora" Uncle Maxim shook his head with a laugh, gesturing at her with his wine glass.
"Well you know I'm more discrete with my entrances than my dear sister or Stasya." Suddenly out of nowhere the house maid started a strange bodily movement that quickly shifted like some kind of morphing. I'd never seen anything like it before. There appeared a new face, new hair, new clothes, the whole package.
Only another second later I was looking at… a second Theodora..
No….
Wait…
Thinking back to the recollection I had in father's study, there was another. Yes, he said Lenora. Yes that's it!
A/N: Start playing Zombie by the Cranberries here, it think it adds cool dramatic effect to the story with background music lol
Now I see it…
Something very vague in the facial structure is different, maybe the forehead or cheek bones but other than that small detail I surprisingly recognized, she was an exact image of Theodora.
"You're her twin, Lenora" I voiced, taking a moment to look between the two of them smiling.
"Yes I am. Your progressing fast, cousin" she winked with her arm on her hip and leaning onto one leg "Which as I said calls for a bigger treat" she held her hand out to the door.
Straight filed in line walked in a number of people with faraway looks in their eyes. They must be compelled, not only that each one was dressed like they came out of a red carpet premiere.
A bigger treat?
"Just a few debutants and fine gentlemen; I know we limit these things but this moment deserves a little self-indulgence" Everyone then had a smile on their faces that just adored the idea.
"I suppose your right my dear niece" he turned back towards us and gestured his arm with a type of confirming to take out stroll around a buffet.
I was kind of feeling uncomfortable, I didn't drink straight from the vein too often, usually sticking to blood bags but now I came to realize, what were they all going to do?
"Of course you shall be joining this toast, Kristof" my father called to him with a smile.
Kristof then moved around to grab hold of two people, one man and one woman.
"I would love to your grace" he approached me and made the young man of the two stand ready in front of me. His smile never faltered as he stood by my side with the compelled girl facing him.
I couldn't help but stare back at his charming smile with a bit of interest at this whole thing but nervousness growing as well.
"here's to you" he whispered, making chills running up my spine.
"A toast! To my second daughters grand return!" Father stood with one of the women's back facing him, holding her by her upper arms "And our family now almost completely whole again. We are now very close and very soon we'll rejoice in a great celebration together as one" He boomed with a wide smile.
"Cheers" everyone called.
That very next moment I was frozen in complete awe and somewhat trembled by what I was seeing.
Everyone released a feral hiss as they shifted into a predatory frenzy, sinking their elongated fangs into the victim's neck. The sound of ripping flesh, of dripping blood, pools of it began to appear out of each new wound, but not one human was able to make a sound. Even Lily's demeanor looked lethal. Kristof had done the same but I was too struck with numbness to even move let alone feed from the guy in front of me. I just couldn't get over this sight, this new vampire appearance. There was a completely different air to all of them. Something that just gives you chills in their presence and even more so at seeing them like this. It's ominous and mystifying but I can't exactly describe how.
The bodies soon began hitting the floor. A new corpse touched down one after the other and automatically the nervousness grew in me. Was I really going to kill this person? Was I expected to?
Each family member looked in a euphoric state and smiled with satisfaction at the fill.
With each dead body, that was another set of eyes that turned to me after seeing I haven't taken my share in the toast.
As soon as everyone was done I couldn't help but shift awkwardly, looking down to my feet. Kristof put his hand to my back in concern for what was on my mind. Father cleared his throat, stepping around the piled bodies.
What do I say?
You almost never run into a vampire like me who prefers to not kill.
"Natalia?" I heard his voice call as he now stood in front of me.
Shaking out of my stupor, I looked back up smiling yet with a skeptical expression.
"This….isn't very subtle, father. How is this done here with the Russian Federation in on the ordeal?"
Lighting up in understanding, there was that part he had forgotten to mention.
"In Russia, there is nothing money cannot buy, my dear" he chuckled "A city so big, a country so large our benefit to this land, far outweighs a few fatalities. We serve a fair deal of mutual interest so the officials don't mind turning the other cheek at a few corpses"
He pulled out his handkerchief to wipe the blood that had dripped from his mouth, pacing about now.
"You already now we play integral parts within various organizations and partnerships around the city. That influence extends throughout Russia. Its…" He waved his arm around, trying to find the words for it "Like a family business" he smiled at the deduction "This country would not function as great as it does without us, but working towards our interest of course. Our kind does function like a large district after all and the population is only growing and growing by every new phase of the moon"
Oh my gosh
this whole thing sounds like I'm in the middle of a..
… a underground empire
"Your sister's and cousins actually watch over different sections or fields for us" he waved to them "And as my precious daughter I plan the same for you, as well as whatever it takes to ensure you are always happy here" he came back up to me, smiling and brushing his hand along my cheek.
"You were born to be a pureblood my dear, and we were destined to rule" he placed a tender kiss to my forehead, patting his hands down on my shoulders with a smile "I will make you completely immortal, no matter what it takes. So I feel it best your sister's and cousins do take trial to inquire how your powers will fair under your current state"
The loving father daughter moment came to a screeching halt at that last sentence. Wait, what?
"Just what I was waiting to hear" Stasya stepped up, the lights of the room suddenly began their previous frenzy, and I could hear some of the wires that had been connected around the room begin to flash out "Come now, dear Natalia, show us what your made of"
I automatically took a few cautionary steps back at the sound of that. "Hold on just what are you thinking" I warned, staying as tough as I could.
"Why we're gonna test you out of course" Theodora and Lenora stepped right on the dead bodies as they approached me "Your gonna have to defend yourself"
"That's right"
"It'll speed up the process"
"We went through it" they spoke in dynamics with each other.
Oh, seriously I was starting to get this very distressed feeling in my stomach. My expression still tried to look back strong and unintimidated.
I heard a throat clear and looked to see Megara had finished another few sips of wine, while playing with her perfectly manicured nails, which by the way were lighting up with a flame as each finger took a snap. Lily had come up to hug my side.
My breathing turned heavy at seeing at Megara approach me that way, feeling she would have no problem roasting me alive. What the heck am I going to do?
"Now girls, let's not be to rash" a new voice came and all four of them turned towards the door to see a new girl strolling into the room. "Remember, when we all dueled, it didn't matter if we tore each other apart because none of us could truly be killed"
She looked about Megara and Stasya's age. She had short brown hair like Stasya's but with a few soft lowlights underneath. She sported a very chic on the town look with very cute on edge touches added to it. It was casual yet a little more creative than how me or the twins dressed.
"Besides, four on one isn't fair"
"Ah, Tatianna you've arrived" uncle Feodor smiled to her.
"Glad you made it sister" Stasya grinned over her shoulder to her but she responded by crossing her arms.
"Well, I see you had no problem doing the toast without me" Well every human was dead aside from the guy I was to bite.
"Have a share of dear Natalia's human" her sister suggested, shoving him over to her.
Though, she caught him in her arms, she quickly just snapped his neck and tossed him aside.
"It just wouldn't be right now" she noted before standing beside the other's.
I looked her over and the more she spoke, the memories of her appearance began coming back to me, making me recognize Tatianna. She was Stasya's younger sister and my older cousin.
Faced with yet another new personality, I was still nervous as to what she thinks about this whole testing me theory.
"Its good to have you back, Natalia." She civilly walked up to give me a light hug "I am your cousin Tatianna"
"Yes, I briefly remember" I assured.
"That's good to hear. Anyway, as grand as it is that you've returned, I agree we must do all we can to make sure you reach your full potential. We can't leave anyone of our family member's in a vulnerable state so the best thing you can do is fight back with every sense and response that comes to your body"
I was afraid she would say that.
The timid feeling was backing up on me again. Frantically looking around, all the men were casually standing back in full approval over this measure to make my body respond to the danger and need for power. I cannot believe this, my family here is basically gonna jump me.
"father…" I began backing up, fear evident in my voice.
"Do not worry, the girls will take great care to ensure you are not killed but this must be done to awaken your true strength. You will be fine, my dear Natalia"
I think I'm gonna be sick. Me, I'm strong but I'm still considered a baby vampire, versus 5 centuries old Purebloods with Pyro Kinesis, Electro Kinesis, Megneto Kinesis, Bio Kinesis and Tatiana's still unknown. That also being that Lily didn't look to be willing to get involved with Geo Kinesis.
Before I could even blink next, I felt a painful shock shoot into me, every part of me quivered as I flew back through the air and my back broke through a sharp surface of what was a large window, before landing me on the cold concrete of the courtyard, surrounded by night.
.
.
Alright guys, this next Chapter is going to be ALL ABOUT THE ORIGINALS. What do you guys think of the family so far? I've got big plans for everyone you'll just LOVE and we're still missing a sister too. I can't wait for you guys to read how the discovery goes. It was so long I had to space it into several chapters. Anways, TELL ME WHAT YOU GUYS THINK. PLEASE REVIEW!
