Chapter 21

Armando felt like a lost man as he followed Janelle around what was called a store to look for baby items. Apparently, things had changed quite extensively in the last few hundred years and now one had to buy an endless amount of materials to care for an infant. He silently watched as Janelle chatted with a sales person in the store about some type of contraption that held the child and had wheels.

"Are you sure you don't have any other questions?" asked the woman who had a name tag that read "Nora" on it. She was slightly younger than Janelle and he could tell she was by far more interested in him than Janelle. Nora tilted her head at him. "You're awfully quiet for a new father. Usually, they do pipe up when it comes to the stroller. Your the ones that end up folding it and packing it away in the car." She laughed suddenly. "Or at least at first. Then the husband usually stops helping entirely and us women figure it out."

Janelle smiled politely, but Armando frowned. "Whatever the future mother of my child needs, I shall provide," he said in a deep voice.

Nora's expression faltered. "Oh…ah, I didn't mean any offense. Anyway, do you have any questions about the strollers?"

"Why do you need one?"

Nora looked puzzled. "Why do I need a question from you?"

"No, why does an infant need a stroller?"

Janelle cleared her throat as Nora now had a shocked expression on her face. "He, um, didn't have some of the same traditions where he grew up."

The girl practically snorted. "I would hardly call a stroller part of a tradition. It's a necessity!"

"Why?" asked Armando. "What's wrong with carrying the child in our arms?"

"A baby can get really heavy after a while!" exclaimed Nora who looked at him like he was completely crazy. "Women can't just carry them everywhere, especially when we're shopping!"

"Then I shall carry the child for her," Armando simply replied.

Nora looked at him incredulously. "You, a man, will go shopping with her?"

"Is that wrong?"

Janelle laughed inside his mind. No, it's completely normal.

Hmm, I can see after this little shopping adventure why men may not want to repeat the process.

Nora shook her head. "Well, just let me know if you have any…logical questions."

"Um, thanks," said Janelle. As the woman walked away, Janelle tried not to laugh even more. "I think you definitely confused her."

"Well," he replied defensively, "why do we need all these things?"

"Because we do. Look, you have to trust me on some of this."

He cocked an eyebrow at her. "I have a far too much to learn in this time period. You will need to be patient with me." Armando glanced at the stroller. "On the other hand, I hope you also understand that some of the basics are what matter most. A child needs to constantly be held."

"I heard you could spoil a child if you held them all the time."

"Have I mentioned that I used to begin teaching children even as young as infants? You will have to trust me on some things as well."

She sighed. "Fair enough. Let's put this stroller on the baby shower list and then I need something to eat."

Later, Armando stood in a line and watched Janelle order what she called fast food. It was indeed fast as within minutes her food appeared on a tray and he carried it to a nearby table. He was amazed still at how far society had evolved. Within the wizards home, it would take the servants a full day to prepare fresh, cooked meat. Here it seemed humans could now do most things almost instantly. He'd spent so much time in the ground that he'd missed everything that happened. Janelle had mentioned to him that he needed to spend time on something call the Internet on a computer. It was a much faster way to learn than reading books.

As Janelle practically inhaled her sandwich, she noticed him being quiet. "What's wrong?"

He gave her that half smile which seemed to make her heart flip. "Nothing. How is your sandwich?"

"It's a cheeseburger and it's fantastic. I wish I could eat food all the time."

Armando grinned. "Then perhaps you will want to be pregnant all the time."

She laughed. "I'm not so sure about that. I haven't really experienced everything quite yet. Although I am starting to gain weight from all this food."

"You will still need blood as well."

She made a face at him. "Can we not talk about that while I'm eating?"

"Sorry. But it's important for the health of the child."

Janelle took a drink and paused. "Why do you think you're blood is different than any of the Carpathians?"

"Shea believes somewhere along history, the Carpathian population picked up something that changed our blood. It could have something to even do with the wizard Xavier who infected many Carpathians with parasites from the soil we sleep in. It is my understanding they still have to fight this today as they continue to be infected."

"But we sleep in the same soil. So why not us?"

"Perhaps something made their blood vulnerable to the parasites where as mine blocks them. I am certain that is why Shea is so interested in my blood."

"And somehow it affected a woman's need for food during pregnancy."

"Carpathian infants are should be born with the human ability to first feed from their mothers but also can sleep underground. They at first are a mix of both human and Carpathian abilities. This helps them gain weight quicker and then eventually the need for food decreases until there is only an urge for blood as they slowly evolve into becoming full Carpathian. It is my understanding the infants born today cannot sleep in the ground. They are more human in that way."

"Like their wires are crossed."

Armando cocked his head at her. "Wires crossed? I have to get used to some of these phrases you use."

"You need to watch more television. You'd probably learn way too much!"

"Television. The box that shows images."

She laughed. "Yes. It shows news or real life events that are happening. Other things are stories acted out. Probably like a theater…or a play," Janelle said as she tried to think of similar items from his time period.

Armando's voice grew quiet. "And did you watch a lot of television during your days while married?"

"Well, yeah, sometimes," she answered, fiddling with a napkin.

"What would you want to do?" He reached out and held her hand. "Janelle, I may tease you about being pregnant all the time, but I do not want you unhappy. I do not expect you to just be a wife and mother unless that is what you want."

She was silent for a moment. "So, I could be a hunter too?"

Surprised, Armando almost lost his voice. "This is what you want?"

Janelle gave way to a wide smile. "No, but I wanted to see if you really would allow me to do anything."

He laughed softly. "I admit it that as we are going to have a child, it does worry me. But yes, I would support you." Armando squeezed her hand.

"I'd actually like to get my master's degree. I hear you can do this now online so I would be able to stay at home."

"What would you be a master of?"

"It's like further education through book learning," she explained. "And I'd study law. Maybe then I can somehow use it to help the Carpathians."

Armando kissed her hand. "I am certain you would be very valuable to them."

"I'd like to somehow be useful."

He nodded. "I understand. I am grateful that you are looking ahead."

"You know, sometimes I think about what my life used to be like…with Randy." As Armando stiffened, she sighed. "You've really opened my eyes to a new life. It's still hard sometimes, but I'm also excited. I mean, now I'm doing things I've always wanted. I get to be a mother and maybe have a job again."

"What about me?"

"What do you mean?"

Armando swallowed hard. "Am I who you want?"

"Of course! I know that wasn't the case at first. I'm sorry that I didn't-"

Armando quickly silenced her. "Do not ever apologize for not accepting me. I took you against your will."

"Well, let's just say you seduced me."

"I wish there could have been some other way."

Janelle shrugged. "I've grown to accept what's happened. I'm not happy Randy's life was taken because that's just the way I am. But I would be lying if I said I wasn't happy now."

He froze. "You're happy? Truly?"

Janelle blushed. "Yes."

Armando sat back with relief. He was beyond pleased. It felt as if everything was finally coming together. Although he was still getting used to being a teacher again, the thought no longer terrified him as it used to when it came to children. True, he was still somewhat uncomfortable. But like Janelle, he was finally moving forward.

"When will you try again with Jacques?" asked Janelle, changing the subject.

"In a few days. He needs time to absorb the memories I gave back to him. Although he feels better, he will also experience some emotional pain."

"Like two steps forward, one step back."

"Something like that, yes."

Suddenly, Gregori's voice broke into their minds. The prince wishes for you to come to my home.

A wave of amusement washed over Armando. The prince. Not you.

Did I say otherwise?

Janelle smiled and shook her head as Armando answered. What is the issue as to why I am summoned to your home, healer?

Mikhail has some further questions as to the experiments we are beginning to carry out on your blood.

Not you?

Gregori almost growled in response. Do not test me, SongMaker.

Am I testing you?

My patience, yes. If the prince summons you, do not question it.

Before Armando could snap at Gregori, Janelle spoke up. "Stop. You are both just needling each other. What is it with you two?"

"I believe he is just territorial around Mikhail. He is not used to his prince being so intrigued with one particular Carpathian."

She actually giggled. "Oh. So he's jealous."

"In the days of Mikhail's father, I was accepted as an advisor to the prince. Gregori's father was his protector. My absence forced Gregori to take on both roles. He is not used to the thought that there is an ancient with more knowledge."

"But there are other ancients older than him. I don't understand."

Armando crossed his arms over his chest. "Gregori, although always honorable in the end with his intentions, broke many laws in his youth. He experimented and meddled with things best left alone in the dark world. His silver eyes are a reminder of that time. But those actions also brought him more knowledge than any other Carpathian known to exist. Until I emerged, Gregori was unquestioned with his experience over the last few hundred years."

"He's not used to sharing power."

"No. But he is a great Carpathian. There is no question he is the best for his role as second in command to the prince." He winked at her. "But never tell him I said that."

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Hours later, Armando watched as Shea placed some of his blood under a microscope. They were in Gregori's laboratory and she'd asked numerous questions. Armando gave the female credit for obviously being a talented scientist. But they were no closer to solving exactly why Armando's blood was different. Still, it was a start. They may not find the answer or a cure for years. But at least progress was being made and there was excitement around this latest discovery with his blood.

For the most part, Gregori ignored him, obviously more intrigued with Shea's thoughts than anything Armando had to offer. The SongMaker kept his patience, especially as Mikhail was present. There was also another male in the room by the name of Gary. Armando was somewhat surprised that Gregori not only tolerated this human, but seemed to even treat him as a friend. Armando sensed Jaguar blood within the human so it appeared he was a descendant of an ancient bloodline.

As dawn approached, Shea finally relented to Jacques calling her to return home. A female Carpathian by the name of Gabrielle Sanders came into the lab and began talking to Gary. Armando noted Gregori did not appear pleased that the two seemed to be somewhat intimate. Mikhail also seemed to be unusually quiet as the couple continued to talk for a few moments.

"So, we'll be back tomorrow night," said Gary as he and Gabrielle began to take their leave. Gregori glanced down at the couple's hands, linked together. "I think you may want to consider getting more rest before you return. You have to watch over some of the children during the day."

He shrugged. "I went to sleep in the early evening. It's convenient now with the winter hours and the sun going down so quickly now. So don't worry, I'm still getting at least five to six hours of sleep."

"That's not enough," scolded Gregori. "I entrust you with the care of my daughters. While my safeguards are in place during the day, I need you diligent."

The human pulled Gabrielle close to him. "I understand. But…I need some personal time too."

Mikhail pointedly looked at some of the notes from Shea, avoiding any input to this conversation.

Gregori seem to sigh and finally gave a nod to Gary. "Be careful going home. I need that mind of yours to be untouched so we can solve some of these questions."

Gary grinned. "You know me. Nothing can keep me from the exciting world of research. I'll be back tomorrow night." He turned to Armando. "It was a pleasure meeting with you. I'm sure I'll have a lot more questions for you in the coming months."

After saying their goodbyes, Mikhail eyed Gregori after the couple left. "I thought you were going to talk with him."

The healer grimaced. "I did. The two of them think they are in love, Mikhail. I've tried to explain the issue before us with them being a couple. But they will not listen."

Armando tilted his head. "Why is it a problem?"

Both of them looked at the SongMaker with surprise. "He is a human. She is Carpathian," answered Gregori.

"So?"

The healer became annoyed. "What do the Carpathian males think? She could be a lifemate to any of them. There are already whispers among the unattached males that Mikhail is not being strong enough in this situation; that he should separate them and introduce Gabrielle formally to all available males. It is a difficult situation."

There was silence for a moment as Armando stood there, somewhat puzzled. He finally spoke. "But why would there be any other male for her? They are lifemates. Why has she not turned him?"

Both men looked at him with shock. Mikhail spoke in a sharp tone. "They are lifemates?"

"Impossible," snapped Gregori. "He is human."

Armando stared at the healer for a heartbeat and then began to softly laugh.

"I do not see what is so amusing," snapped Gregori.

"So…in your mind, it is obviously fine to turn a female human to Carpathian, but not a male." Armando continued to smile as Gregori's eyes narrowed. "Can you simply be that ignorant or is it arrogant? Why would it not be possible for him to turn Carpathian? It is no different than my joining with Janelle or Mikhail joining with Raven. You assume because he is a human male that it cannot be done."

"He has a point, Gregori," said Mikhail in a soft voice.

"You are certain of this?" hissed Gregori. "You know for sure they are lifemates? Why did Gabrielle not know?"

"Males know, especially when they lose color. She has not been Carpathian long, or at least that is what I sense. How would she know other than the fact she has feelings for him?"

"And they are truly lifemates," repeated Gregori.

"It is my gift. I recognize the lifemate of any Carpathian should they be nearby."

Mikhail placed a hand on Gregori's shoulder. "You do not want him to be wrong as you fear they will be hurt."

"A human male has never turned to Carpathian in our lifetime," said Gregori. He looked at Armando and obviously made an effort to speak in a respectful tone. "Will the process be worse for him? What might happen?"

The SongMaker spoke in a gentle voice. "No worse than any of the females. He will suffer physically, but he should be fine. His jaguar blood may cause more pain than usual, but she will help him through it."

"This means she has to feed him; she has to have at least three blood exchanges. She has an aversion to blood now and has to be placed in a trance to feed. I'm uncertain she will be able to do this on her own with Gary."

Armando nodded. "I will instruct her."

Gregori appeared to be somewhat relieved. "Very well. I will speak with them myself tomorrow evening and a meeting can be arranged with you."

Mikhail suddenly stilled and Gregori sharply looked at him. The prince frowned. "The other night…when you sang that Christmas song. Your power, your voice, at one point should have reached all Carpathians, yes?"

"Yes," agreed Armando somewhat confused. "When I allow it to do so, all Carpathians can hear when I sing. It helps to soothe and calm our people, especially those unattached males who grow tired. Why do you ask?"

"A few months ago, we were made aware of a new Carpathian couple. The female was discovered not far from the Carpathian mountains by one of our hunters who turned out to be her lifemate. Oddly enough, she had no real memory of her childhood. I had been meaning to ask you that after your sessions with Jacques were complete, that perhaps you could help her as well."

"Of course," replied Armando with a slight bow of his head.

"But now I know there is something else. Her lifemate has just admitted to me that she could not hear you sing."

Armando sharply inhaled. How was that possible? "She is fully Carpathian?"

"Yes. In fact, she was never human although when she was found, she did not know she was one of us. How is it that she would not be able to hear you when you reach out to all of us with your gift?"

"I do not know," replied Armando. "But I would like to meet her and find out more."

Author's note: Thanks so much for all the reviews everyone. And Happy Thanksgiving! -Anne