I don't know what it is about being back at school that makes me write so much, but I'm not going to let it go to waste. I've been writing a lot for this story now, but still I'll only update once a week, sorry guys. And just to let everyone know, the story is going to be a little slow for the next few chapters. I hope you're enjoying yourselves, review if you want.

XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Chapter 25: The Letter

Gabriel sat in the small quarters that served as his room when he was at the Vatican. It had been months since he had left Visceria, and a year since Inara first returned to the Vatican with a badly injured elderly man and a bloody bandaged hand. Not a word had been heard since that night in the square, and that fight in the mansion. It took a direct order from the Pope himself before Gabriel returned to Rome, having stayed in the small Romanian village for far longer than he should have. There had been missions during those months in which he returned to his regular duties, but Gabriel had become more rough and reluctant to follow the Vatican's orders. More and more of those who were suppose to be brought in alive ended up being a corpse, and many friars refused to work with the man when they were asked to accompany him on particularly difficult missions.

The Hunter also had taken long detours on his missions, often gone for weeks longer than needed, and he did not report to the Vatican on his dealings. Devoyl had been frusterated by these episodes, but after a few months, Gabriel rarely went off by himself. Today was one of those rare days between missions when Gabriel wasn't debriefing or preparing to go off, it was a day to relax, but he couldn't. That was when the envelope appeared under his door.

Gabriel just looked at it for a long moment...why was there a letter under his door? He never got mail... ever. There were no living relations that he had, or at least knew of, and the Vatican took care of any legal dealings, it was almost as if he didn't exist. So where did this letter come from? He stood, crossing the small room to the door, bending to pick up the small creme colored envelope. On the front in very fine letters was his name, and the address to the Vatican, but besides a stamp, there was nothing else on the letter. No return address or stamp from it's origin. Curiosity was getting the best of him, and Gabriel flipped the letter over, noting the letter was sealed in wax... not usual. He broke the seal and quickly pulled out the small bit of parchment inside, walking to his plain bed. Sitting down he unfolded the bit of paper. It wasn't lined paper, or computer paper, but old parchment, as if someone had written this long ago. In the corner though was the date, March 10th, it was mailed or at least penned a month ago. Immediately he started to read.

Dear Gabriel,

This will probably not aid my situation, or yours, but I knew I had to write you. I had to, if for no more reason than to say that I am still alive. After that night in the mansion, Dracula immediately boarded a train, and I was unconscious. I do not know where I am, not even after months of living here. I am in the ruins of an abandoned castle, and that pine and other conifers surround the castle, and that I am in the north. The nights are long, and it's cold, so many people do not live near by.

It is not as if I am being neglected or abused. Dracula has taken an interest in my well being, and focuses on my care much more than his own. Gabriel, I know this will be hard for you, because you felt like you failed me, but you didn't fail me. I'm the one that failed you.

I tried to tell you, but you were too focused on your job to listen, so this is the only opportunity I have to tell you. The reason I willingly left with Dracula is because my blood is special, in that when he drinks it he doesn't thirst for other humans, he turns docile and more mortal-like. He tells me it is because God wishes for him to be redeemed, but if my blood can save others from dying, then I'm willing to sacrifice that small amount of myself in order to save them, and you.

He wanted to kill you Gabriel, for all the trouble you caused. He had agreed to let me leave the catacombs and live in Visceria if I promised not to run. You found me shortly after, and he was outraged. He believed you stole me and his anger was towards one who had stolen something precious to him.

I know this is hard to believe, I didn't want to at first... but he seems kinder than before, gentler and more compromising than he was before. I think he is changing Gabriel, and if it's for the better then I must stay.

I miss you, I miss the Vatican, I even miss the dangers of our missions, but I do not think I will see any of that again. Dracula is taking me to town because he believes it would be good for me. We leave tomorrow and that is why I put this to pen, because it will be my only chance to give you some peace at mind.

I am still human, he has not tried to turn me, and the only harm that comes to me is his bite, which he spares as long as he can before the thirst drives him to pain. I am alright Gabriel, and I pray for you everyday. Be safe my friend, and the next time I can pen, I will.

God Be With You Gabriel,

Inara