Dawn was fast approaching by the time they reached the pack's temporary home, an old boarding house. It looked completely deserted except for a car in the driveway.
"Inside quickly." Vivian instructed hurriedly ushering them inside the house. They walked into a large kitchen where two people where. One was tall blond man and the other a women who looked like an older version of Vivian. Both of them were calmly drinking coffee but looked up as everyone entered the room. "Everyone I like to introduce my mother Esme and my stepfather Tomas."
"I was wondering when you drag your ass back here. I didn't think that the Rites would last so long so I left early. I hope that wasn't a problem." Esme snapped at her daughter.
"We had to be sure that our newest pack members arrived here safe and sound. Its not safe to be out and about these days not with that monster loose in the city." Gabriel told the two of them in an authoritive voice.
"You must all be exhausted from your efforts last night. I'm sure whatever business that needs to be conducted can be taken care of after you get some rest." Tomas concluded after glancing at the tired heroes.
"I don't need sleep and anyone who tries to make me sleep is going to be sorry." Batman stated. He glared at the group daring them to try. Mark did so by sneaking up behind him and giving him a sedative. "What he asked for it?"
Mark smiled mischivily. "That was fun. There are plenty of rooms upstairs. Go on get some rest I'll wake you a little after noon." The group nodded and went upstairs. They hurt all over so within a few minuets they were all fast asleep.
While they were resting and the members of the house were talking quietly across town Hippacrites was in his warehouse going over inventory lists. He had enough power to run his scheme and power the warehouse. He had all the equipment he would need. But he was still short on several of the items he would need for his master plan. He was running out of time it was already Tuesday. He gargled down some blood and decided to interrogate his prisoner some more. He needed his help on a few things.
He left his private quarters and entered the holding area. Several servants led by Kraven were having some fun by throwing rocks at the boy. One struck his face just below his left eye. Tears streamed down freely. As much fun as it was to watch this he couldn't kill the boy just yet. "Enough! All of you leave and go practice or do something useful. I like to question our guest personally." The servants jeered and cursed angrily but did as they were told.
Hippacrites circled the cage slowly evaluating the condition of his hostage. He was in the worst shape imaginable. The torture was really taking its toll on his body. Soon he would crack. He dragged his claws across the bars then slammed his huge fist into the wall causing Richie to flinch in terror. "Has reality set in yet my young vampire? That you will never enjoy the pleasures of the nightlife again? That you will never see your family and friends again in your entire life? You are in pain beyond imagination. Why not just give in? You can end this pitiful resistance, this torture, and this agony. Because let me tell you resistance is futile. I will win and you will lose. Answer my questions and this will end. Its pointless to resist me."
"I may be in pain and terrified of you, but I'm not giving in to you. Not now not ever you hear me? I've battled to many foes to give up now. I've figured out your little pan and you can bet if I did Arra, Static, and the League will to. They will stop you and when they find you I hope they give you the fate you deserve." Richie said in a raspy but defiant voice.
Hippacrites arm shot in and grabbed the boy around his neck and dug his claws deep drawing blood. Richie started to gasp and cough up blood. "Please stop." He managed to croak out and the vampanzee released him.
"You should really see a doctor about that." He said laughing manically. "How sad that you are a vampire Mr. Foley. I believe that you would have made an excellent vampanzee. Now my little pet its time to get down to business. You're going to help me. I need your genius mind to help me figure out a tricky little problem I've been having."
Richie's eyes burned with hatred. He had been kidnapped several times before but this time was different. The fate of the human race was in his hands. He couldn't and wouldn't give in to Hippacrites no matter what he threatened. No matter how much torture and pain he suffered he wouldn't give in. "Figure it out yourself if you're so smart!" he spat out.
"I had hoped we could avoid further unpleasentries, but now you have tried my last ounce of patience. Now we get serious." Hippacrites said coldly picking up some medieval torturing devices from the table and turning the brain scrambler on full blast. Richie braced himself for the onslaught of torture that was to come. He only hoped that Arra was safe and she was cracking down on this nutcase.
At the boarding house the pack had gathered. Many of the older members especially the males were uncomfortable lending help to non-wolf members. It didn't seem right. They also hated the way Gabriel and Vivian were leading the pack.
"This is wrong you two and you know it. They are not true members of our pack no matter if they've passed the Rites. They are a danger to us. What if they lead trouble back to our den? We should have left this place ages ago. I'm not saying their bad its just their not Loup-garou and how can we trust them?" Lucien demand. His buddies Raul and Rolf nodded in agreement.
Vivian bristled at their comments. She was young to be a queen but she was determined to do her duty. "Arra is my friend. She saved my life I owe her plain and simple. You don't like that tough luck. Besides there are certain advantages to having such powerful members in our pack if you think about for a second." Vivian snapped at him.
"Enough! We are all acting like animals. We know what happened to our ancestors five hundred and fifty years ago but we have to move on. What happened is in the past and if we don't want a repeat of history were going to help. And if I hear one more complaint I'm going to smack you so hard you won't be able to sit down for a week understand? Now go and prepare for the ceremony. Don't forget to look for clues while your out. Esme, Tomas, Mark, Vivian, and I shall stay here. Contact us with any information now scram." Gabriel ordered.
"I don't get why the pack is so against this. You guys didn't behave this way when I joined. Vampires and werewolves might not be best of friends but we are certainly not enemies." Mark commented as he got a soda from the fridge.
"The past is always a touchy subject. It brings up a lot of painful memories. Some that are worst than others. It will be noon in half an hour. I should get lunch ready. Think they like pizza?" Esme asked. Her mate and her headed in to the kitchen to prepare lunch for their guest.
Upstairs in one of the guest beds Arra was tossing and turning in her sleep. She had removed the silver pentagram necklace earlier. Around her neck the Bloodstone glowed a dull red and streaks of light sprang up and snaked out of the room. They headed to the beds of her sleeping friends. When the light hit them they began to share in with Arra dream, which was a memory of when she met Vivian two years prior.
Upstate Vermont 2 years ago: Selena and Arra were sitting on the porch of an abandon hunting lodge stationed near a national forest. They looked up at the stars gazing at the constellations happily. "Beautiful tonight isn't it? I love places like this where we can clearly see the stars. Reminds me of our first home you know the village remember Arra?" Selena asked softly.
"I remember Selena. I wish we could stay here longer. This place is so amazing full of surprises. I never want to leave." Arra replied softly.
"You know we can't do that. There's no human's around for miles. It's just not practical." Selena told her shaking her head sadly. She to wished to stay in this place a little longer. They had only arrived two nights ago and it was just a pit stop on their way to a major city.
The door opened and the rest of the clan came outside to enjoy the fresh air. They wanted to stargaze as well. It had been very tiring lately. To many close calls. Finally Vanez opened his mouth and spoke up. "Why don't we go hunting? This is a national forest and I'm sure they won't miss a few animals."
"We haven't had a chance to do some real hunting in so long. Victor and Demetra will be safe for half an hour. Please Merton say yes." Kathren pleaded eyes wide. Siba joined in next. "Come on when will we get another chance?"
"You are right of course. We haven't had an opportunity like this in months to just sit back relax and hunt. Still we can't leave our Elders unguarded. That would be most unwise. I shall stay behind and protect them." Merton informed them sadly.
Vanez placed a hand on his shoulder. "No Merton you've been cooped up inside long enough. You need a break. I'll stay behind and you go have some fun. Trust me everything will be okay."
Merton smiled and bared his fangs happily. Standing up he took Cassandra's hand in his and declared the hunt was on. They separated into pairs and plunged into the forest shouting last one to return was a rotten egg.
Arra and Selena ran through the forest at top flirting speeds using their amazing strength to move obstacles out of the way. Opening their senses up they let the smells and the sounds of the night fill their noses and ears. This was Paradise to them. "Sorry Vanez had to sacrifice his time with you. I know he didn't like staying behind." Arra thought to Selena as they vaulted over a stump.
"No problem. I mean its great to go hunting at all considering that's my duty. I need all the practice I can get. I don't mind hunting with a kid." Selena teased.
"Kid! I'm the same age as you 714! Selena quit joking around will you its not funny."
The two vapriress stopped flirting when they smelled a deer close by. They approached the sleeping animal cautiously careful not to disturb its slumber. A sudden noise would alert the animal to their presence, which was the last thing on their mind.
Selena motioned Arra to circle around the other side of the trees. Both of them quietly drew their knives and creeped ever so closer. Selena raiser her knife when snap! A twig snapped under her foot. She cursed Charna's guts but it was already to late. The deer had woken up and was running for its life. Selena threw her knife but it missed its target by an inch becoming embedded in a tree trunk. Growling she tore the weapon loose and gave chase. She had no intention of losing the prey.
Arra had circled around to the other side and was now in perfect position to attack. She shot her nails into the beast neck and it collapsed to the ground barely alive. Arra leaped forward placed her hands around its neck and snapped it killing it quick and painlessly. She hated killing but it was a nessacity. Some people might say what she had just done wrong but her mind how was it any different from any hunter in the world?
Selena joined her and together they began to cut off pieces of veal to eat. They sucked a little blood to satisfy their cravings for now. "That was a very successful hunt. I can't believe I stepped on a twig. How lame!"
"Can you finish up here? I want to explore the forest a little more see what kind of night life I spot." Arra told her standing up and gazing around.
"Alright but don't go far. Dawn is in three hours and a storm is rolling in. I f you get lost use your telepathy to find us got it?" Selena replied slowly.
Arra nodded her head and went on her way. She loved being in the woods. Her enhanced senses allowed her to enjoy the beauty of the area better. She came to a small stream and dove in. She really needed a bath and this seemed the best place to get one.
As she was drying off she heard the howls of wolves close bye. Hiding behind a tree she watched a pack of wolves emerge and began to drink from the stream. There had to be at least twenty wolves.
Using her enhanced eyes she took a closer look at the animals. They didn't look like ordinary wolves. The ears were too floppy and the tail was far to short. The paws were much bigger and their teeth were just a bit to long. Inhaling deeply she smelled wolf with the faint musk of human joined with them. There was no doubt about it they were loup-garou, shape shifters, werewolves.
Arra was very surprised. She hadn't expected to see another werewolf pack ever again. She decided to stay and observe them. It was obvious that the leader of the pack was the huge white one with gray paws and ice blue eyes. His mate was a tawny female who was whining at him. She licked her lips and tossed her head to the right. With a quick nuzzle from her mate she ran off.
Arra didn't know why she trailed the female. Maybe because she was lonely for company or might be because she thought they could be friends. Whatever the reason she was there when it mattered.
Arra had climbed up a tree to get a better view of the surrounding terrain. To her right was a deep ravine with several outcroppings. Everywhere else was forest. You had to be careful not to get to close to the edge otherwise you fall to your death. The tawny colored wolf had just snagged a pine martin and was munching happily on in when from the brush emerged an angry wolverine. The wolf dropped her prey and stood up growling a warning. The wolverine ignored it and charged her at full force.
Arra watched in horror as the huge beast clawed the werewolf. It bit at her but she twisted out of the way. She tore at the wolverine foot, but it used its bulk to knock her over. She tried to get to her feet but the angry creature didn't let up. Arra dropped to the ground rushing to aid the female stranger. Without thinking of her own safety she dove into the frenzy.
The ticked off wolverine must have thought the entire world was after him as she dug her nails into its stomach. Arra tried to bite it or at least knock it out of the fight when it sent both her and the injured werewolf over the edge of the ravine. "Ahhhhhhhhhhh!" She screamed as they plunged to their doom. A second later everything went black.
When she came to she groaned in pain. Her entire body hurt. Her head hurt the most of all but no major damage. Glancing to the left she saw the werewolf was out cold bleeding. She started to get up when the ledge they were on stared to crack. "Man this not going to hold our weight for very long. We need to get to the top and fast!" Moving very slowly and very carefully she picked up the wolf and threw her over her shoulders. Holding her paws together with on hand she started climbing up with the other. When she was near the top she levitated up over the ledge to safety.
She collapsed to the ground panting. Rain started to pour washing away any chance of them getting out of here tonight. She found a small cave to spend the night in. She found some dry sticks and started a fire. She glanced at her roommate and waited for the wolf to wake up. She had been gravely injured in the fight and fall but Arra had patched her up the best she could under the circumstances.
She didn't have to wait very long. About ten minutes later the wolf woke up and morphed into a teenage girl naked save for a silver pentagram necklace around her neck. Arra hadn't noticed it before. The girl looked her in confusion. "Rest your safe. I saved you from the wolverine and then again when you fell over the edge of the ravine. You were injured so I did what I could to help you. I'm Arra, Arra Sails." Arra said holding out her hand out.
The girl looked warily at her benefactor. She smelled the air and backed away when she smelled vampire. Arra didn't shy away or move at all. She waited for her to make her decision. Slowly the girl crawled back over to her and took her hand and shook it. "Vivian Gandillon and thank you for saving my life. I'll be better by tomorrow night thanks to my powers. With this rain I'll never be able to find my pack. You're a vampire. I can tell by your smell. Can't you contact your clan mentally?" Vivian inquired.
She shook her head no. "I got a concussion from rescuing you. It's messing with my powers. Here take my coat and warm yourself by the fire. Were stuck together here for till tomorrow night so lets talk." Arra suggested.
That's what they did. They spent the rest of the night talking about their lives and when day came they rested regaining strength. Around three in the afternoon they rose and had a late lunch. Finally night they left their shelter and headed for home.
The two girls walked cautiously through the woods searching for some familiar sign or any trace of their homes, but to no avail. Nothing looked the same and all the dampness messed up their senses. They couldn't tell where anything was. It was so frustrating.
"I know my clan is looking for me. There are so few of us left we can't risk losing any of us. What about your pack would they come looking for you?" Arra inquired
"I'm their Queen. Until I am verified as dead they have to search for me. Lets hope they don't get discourage easily. Hold up I heard something." Vivian said holding her hand out to stop Arra.
Cocking her head to the side and listened carefully. She could make out the faint sounds of someone calling her name. Listening further she heard someone calling out Vivian's name. "They're looking for us. Sounds like they're near each other. They're looking for us about a quarter mile southwest from our position. Think you can keep up?" she asked as got ready to flirt.
Vivian tossed Arra her coat and said, "Try keeping up with me!" Then she changed into a wolf. Howling to the moon both of them took off towards the sounds of their friends. Their blood raced through their veins singing for the warmth of their friends and families.
Finally they reached a clearing were both groups stood nervously. They glared at each other unsure of what the other one was going to do? Things were definitely tense and it looked like a fight could break out anytime. Both groups smiled as the two girls emerged from the thicket tired and in desperate need of a bath, but otherwise fine.
Hurriedly the girls shared what had happened with their clans. Both were extremely glad that they were okay. The loup-garou were eternally grateful for the safe return of their Queen. Vivian gave her necklace to Arra as a token of her friendship and told her if she needed help to call. They would find her no matter where she was. Then after a quick good-bye they parted and went on their ways. End Flashback:
Virgil was shaken awake and he gazed around the room confused. He had taken off his mask and his hands flew up to his face feeling exposed. Then his memories came rushing back and he relaxed a bit. He stretched and yawned. Rubbing the back of his neck he said, "Man, what a strange dream. It was like nothing I ever experienced before. At least not in my sleep it's like that really happened."
"It did." Mark told him simply. He smiled coyly at the young hero like he knew something he didn't know. He scratched his scars absentmindly. "You know the Bloodstone has many strange powers. One is to share information via mind link. Arra told you it was no big deal that she saved Vivian, but subconsciously it was. She wanted you to know the truth so the Bloodstone decided to act on her behalf. It does things like that from time to time."
Grabbing his mask Virgil hurried with Mark to the living room. Clark, Diana, and Batman (who refused to remove his cowl) were already sitting. Batman still seemed angry that they had forced him to get some rest. Vivian had picked up the pizzas they ordered earlier. She hoped everyone liked pepperoni and cheese pizza because that's all they had. Motioning for him to sit down he grabbed a slice took a big bite then asked the question that was on his mind. "What do you mean the Bloodstone decided to act?"
"Though we are not Homo Vamprye we Homo Lupus know the legends and facts about the Bloodstone from our contact with the vampires over the years. After all our kind helped then in the War of Scars centuries ago. But that's for another day." Gabriel informed them.
"The Bloodstone has a conscience all it's own or so were told." Esme stated simply drinking her root beer. Normally she would be drinking but it would be impolite do so with guest around.
"Are you saying that it's alive? I thought the Bloodstone was just a meteorite fragment with unusual powers. Similar to Kryptonite." Clark asked his brow furred. He was confused big time by the conflicting facts.
"It's not alive in the same sense you or I would be considered alive. The blood of every vampire that ever existed flows through it giving it life. Together their collected spirits and powers give the Bloodstone its mind and abilities. It takes enormous amount of power and concentration to use. That's why only Elders, (Kings and Queens) or those in training can use it. Their blood has been specially tuned to the Bloodstone power." Tomas explained.
"Then how is Arra able to use it? She's not an Elder nor is she a Princess according to her own words. Also she was human when it changed her. Why is it allowing her to use it?" Diana demanded
"Honestly I don't know. It's possible that there are hidden reserves in the Bloodstone and Arra that allow her to command such power. I know that Arra has kept most of her past hidden and not told you the complete truth about everything that you need to know, but trust me when the time comes you will know everything." Vivian told her firmly. She wasn't going to reveal anything else.
"Why didn't you wake me with the others? I wanted to start discussions as soon as possible." Arra said angrily as she entered the room in a huff. She dragged her nails across the wall leaving deep gashes to show her displeasure. She took the last slice of pizza and began to eat.
"I thought you might need the extra rest. Arra you can't tax yourself so much especially during the daylight hours. It's dangerous. You could hurt yourself." Mark told her. The look she gave him dropped the temperature in the room by five degrees.
"What's important is that you're up now and we can share with everyone the information we have. It might help us find your mate and stop this monster. Listen up because were not going to repeat ourselves so doesn't miss a thing." Esme said. She nodded to Vivian who took a big sip of her soda before starting her tail.
"It started about a month ago. We got word that you and your clan had become human. I knew how much you wished that, but I wanted to hear what happened from you and see if the rumors were true. It took about week to get things ready and get to Dakota. When we arrived I had no trouble tracking you down but that's when things started to get strange." Vivian started out in a monotone voice.
"What? What did you encounter?" Arra demanded.
"We caught the faint scent of what smelled like a vampire but it wasn't quite one. There was something very different about and it was a lot more human than creature. But as time progressed the smell became more beast than man. We decided to investigate incase something had happened to one of your clan mates."
"That's when the murders started. Our scouting parties came upon the bodies of the victims shortly after they died. We were able to confirm that the killer wasn't a vampire at all. The wounds didn't match up. Vivian convinced me to stay and check it out. Whatever was going on here might have repercussions that affect us. I was on patrol with Mark over there when we came upon the vampanzee devouring his third victim. I thought she was already dead so I ordered us to leave. Two werewolves are no match one vampanzee trust me. But Mark didn't obey." Gabriel said picking up the story.
"I couldn't stand by and let an innocent get killed. I disobeyed orders to leave and tore across the meadow jumping on the back of the vampanzee. I tore at his shoulder before he flung me into a tree. Gabriel came after me attacking from the front. I went to check on the girl. Amazingly she was still alive when I got to her. She was bleeding profoundly and her leg was broken. I let her grab my scruff and tried to drag her away but then the vampanzee struck! He hit me in the side and clawed me. His fangs dug into my neck. He grabbed me by my tail and used his super speed to quickly tie me to a tree. Gabriel bravely fought on but in the end it did no good. The girl was killed and we had to retreat or face execution." Mark said slamming his fist on the coffee table angrily.
"I see. Is that how you got your scars?" Batman inquired. They nodded their heads. "So what did you do next? Surely you had some plan. You weren't going to allow some killer to frame you as the murder."
"We wanted to contact Arra and the others but it was to risky with them human. It was a chance meeting that Arra saw me a museum. I was trying to secure the wolf statue in hopes of using it to summon more help but Arra beat me to it. Our patrols have revealed nothing of this mad man whereabouts. He's masking his scent by combining it with several strong smelling agents. We know he must have some help and an agenda. Other than that we have nothing. Hopefully you can provide us with something to sniff out this evil." Vivian told the group.
"Enough chatter its time to start discussing the Ceremony of Initiation. They need to know what is expected of them and get everything prepared don't we?" Tomas asked getting up off the sofa.
"You are right. There is so much that needs to be done. Everything must be perfect." Esme said joining her husband.
"Excuse me what Ceremony are you talking about? I thought we were going to come up with a plan on defeating Hippocrates and saving my best friend from his clutches." Virgil asked confused.
"We will eventually but the Ceremony is traditional. Without it you won't be recognized as official pack members despite you passing the Rites. The Ceremony is a time of unity and relaxation. It is a time to recharge our energies and also grant luck to us. Believe me will need all the luck in the world if were going to win this fight." Mark told them.
"I understand everyone's reluctance to celebrate after all that has occurred. Myself especially wants to continue fighting but I sense if we don't take a break the solution to our problem will never come to us. Through the Bloodstone I sense that Hippacrites will not make a move. At least not today he won't attack. It would be rude to not follow tradition." Arra told the clan calmly.
"She's right. We've been working so hard sense Saturday that even when we sleep we work. We need a chance to recharge. I'll call J'onn and give him a status report then we can get ready for the Ceremony. Who knows we might actually learn something that could help us." Clark said. He left the room to speak privately with Jonn leaving the others to get ready for the Ceremony.
"Jonn come in. It's Superman. You read me?"
"Loud and clear. We've been worried about you. You haven't contacted us in a while. What is going on? Is the mission proceeding?" the Martian asked concern in his voice.
"Things could be better. Wherever Dr. Jordan Hippacrites is holed up we can't find him. We got some help from some unexpected friends. Right now were about to participate is some kind of Ceremony. Tell me any new news?" Clark asked
"None. Will keep trying but it has been difficult. You can tell Arra were almost finished with Gear's special project. She'll understand what I mean. If anything new turns up I'll contact you. Over and out." Jonn said cutting the connection.
Clark rejoined his friends. Vivian was helping them select wolf skins to wear. Virgil and Batman didn't look to thrilled about the prospect of wearing animal skins over their clothes. "You have to be kidding me! This is to much like the days when Native Americans ran around." Virgil complained.
"The natives of this land understood the power of the beast. These skins are the furs of departed members. Since you don't have furs you must wear these. It is tradition! Also we will have to paint your face and nails. No masks may be worn either. Please don't make me force you to do this." Vivian said angrily tapping her foot.
"There's a human expression I like. I believe its goes like this. When in Rome do as the Romans do. We don't have to wear them all night. Just for the beginning of the Ceremony. Come on guys it's just for awhile and it shows we trust and respect them and their ways." Arra said pleading.
"She's right. Grow up you big babies. Its not that bad." Diana said hands of her hip. She held out her hand and took one of the pelts. Sighing in defeat the men took pelts to and allowed themselves to be made over.
While this was going on Gabriel explained to them exactly what would be happening tonight. There would be games, music, dancing. Not to mention storytelling, a feast, and the hunt. They would have to participate in the hunt but they didn't have to kill the animal. The whole point of this Ceremony was for the pack to unify and work together.
Finally everyone was ready. Diana had to force Batman to remove his mask under the threat of bodily harm if he didn't comply. They followed the loups-garous outside and to the caves where they met last night. In the clearing in front of the caves the celebrations was already under way. Music (mostly drums and strings) could be heard, people were dancing and huge bonfire was blazing in the twilight. People could be seen playing games in their fur and skins. All in all it was a great party.
"These people are acting like wild animals." Batman commented sourly.
"Technically speaking they are wild animals. Come on stop being such a stiff. Enjoy yourself for a while why don't you. Our part in the ceremony isn't for a while yet. So lets have some fun." Arra said howling loudly before diving into a fight. It wasn't a real one just a mock one.
"Well as long as I'm dress like this I guess I should enjoy myself. Hey who wants to watch an electrifying hero in action?" Static asked zooming off to demonstrate his powers.
Superman headed for the buffet table to see what there was to eat. Wonder Women dragged Batman to the dancing area to dance. She was laughing and having a great time. Vivian and the others joined in with them celebrating the night and howling to the moon like idiots.
Finally a few hours later everything settled down and everyone took a seat next to the fire. It was time for the official part of the Ceremony of Initiation to take place. Aunt Persia stood beside Orlando Griffin. They cleared the throats and spoke. "In our society the pack must function as one in order to survive. Everyone must know their place or there is chaos. When loners or neighboring packs join with us it is a time to celebrate. We must reunify our bonds tonight. For the first time in our history a vampire and her clan shall become one with our pack. Do I hear any objections?" Persia asked in her ancient tone.
No one object. Everything was silent. Orlando picked up where Persia left off. "After tonight we will all be one pack. We pledge our loyalty and services to aid our newest members in their quest. We shall not rest till the goal has been obtained. Please drink to the health of our God and Goddess so that we may proceed." He passed them the silver goblet and they each took a long drink.
They all stood up and faced Gabriel. He walked up to them and surveyed them. He growled at them and they submit to him. After a series of growls and barks they responded with the correct words he announced them full members of the pack. Everyone cheered and sat down as Vivian came to the stage. She was carrying small pouches full of what looked like glitter.
"Psst. What's going on Arra?" Static whispered removing his pelt. Arra smiled and replied quietly. "Were about to learn the pack's history and Vivian's personal story. It will be told in wolf tongue so I'll translate. When she is done we will each have to go up and tell a short tale. It can be why were on the quest, something personal, or even how you got your powers. After that we start the hunt for the main course for the feast."
Vivian threw some glittered into the fire and purple sparks shot everywhere. The group gasped as a picture formed in the air lighted by the bonfire. Vivian threw back her head and started talking wolf with English laced in between. Arra quickly began to translate.
"Vivian's ancestors originally lived in Europe around France until the sixteenth century when they fled to avoid werewolf persecution. They settled sparsely in the New World until the end of the century where they took up roots in the wilds of Louisiana. Then at the beginning of the nineteenth century in the city of New Orleans the Verdun triplets broke the ban on eating human flesh so they fled to West Virginia. Everything was fine for a hundred years then one of the pack members killed a girl. Her death lead to a great fire in which several pack members were killed including Vivian's father who was also the leader of the pack. With no place left to go they headed to Maryland where Vivian's Uncle Rudy lived." Arra translated flawlessly. Her eyes locked on with Vivian's teary ones. She understood her friend's pain. After a moments hesitation she continued her story. She threw in more powder and the fire picture changed to show new images.
"An entire year went by and things weren't good. The Five (Vivian's age mates) where causing trouble, Vivian wasn't doing well in school, and the adults of the pack were barely keeping it together. They needed a leader desperately but whom would they follow? It was decided that an Ordeal was to take place to decide. While they waited for this to take place Vivian became the girlfriend of a boy who craved the mystical. His name was Aiden Teague. He and his friends the Amoebas became Vivian's friends. She had fun with them all the time. Aiden gave her the pentagram necklace. Her friendship with the human helped her ignore problems at home with the Five hoarding her, Astrid's recklessness, and the males trying to ensure success before the Ordeal."
The League and Static watched the pictures in the flame changing rapidly. There was Vivian's birthday. A concert with friends and sleepovers with Bingo. But there were troubles. Fights between Gabriel and Lucien. Astrid leading a huge run in a populated area. Rafe trying to cozy up with Vivian. Esme and her daughter talking. It was clearly amazing. Finally they stopped at the night of the Ordeal. Another pinch of powder made the picture talk.
"No females may compete." Orlando told Astrid.
"Let her. Tradition excludes females for good reason. But if Miss Astrid wants a practical demonstration let her fight. First blood means your out." Gabriel said.
"Why is she doing this? She knows she doesn't stand a chance in wining." Vivian whispered to her mom.
"I think I know. She believes that if she knocks off a few males it will be a more impressive show of power than some weak bitches." Esme replied.
The pictures continued to play showing the fierceness of the battle for the position of leader. It may have been Static imagination but Vivian seemed saddened by this. Like it was completely pointless. And after seeing so many people get hurt and die he had to agree.
The fight ended with Gabriel winning. Everyone submit to him. Suddenly Astrid the foxy red wolf lunged at Esme trying to kill her. She began to cut off her air supply. Vivian jumped in and saved her mom by mauling Astrid eye out and forcing her back. It was only after the females submitted to her she realized she accidentally declared herself Queen and Gabriel's mate.
"What a tough luck. I mean she's only sixteen and all this confuses her. At least she saved her mother." Wonder Women whispered.
"Yeah but what's going happen next. No way would Vivian voluntarily submit herself to Gabriel. This might push her over the edge to do something stupid." Superman said.
"Man you don't think she was crazy enough to reveal what she was to Aiden? He would probably kill her." Static said loudly.
"She did tell Aiden. He freaked big time and rejected her. He made all her friends hate her. She was mad as could be. That's when things got strange. Bodies started appearing and she started acting weird. Vivian thought she was a killer so to protect the pack she tried to set herself on fire. But Ulf and Willem stopped her. Astrid and Rafe had set her up. They were going to kill Aiden who had fashioned a silver bullet from the pentagram necklace she threw back at him to kill her with. She saved his life and Astrid was killed for endangering the pack. Rafe was shot to death. Vivian also got shot but begged for them to let Aiden go. For a while she was stuck between beast and human. Then Gabriel helped her change back to normal. The pack moved to Vermont and Vivian purchased a new necklace to remember Aiden by and that is her story or at least the basic summery. Clap please I mean wasn't that great?" Arra asked.
The four heroes looked at one another. What they had seen disturbed and shocked them. But it wasn't any different then what they had seen in other cultures. Despite their lifestyle and ability to change into a wolf they were human as them.
Arra stood up and gazed at the flickering firelight. "Now its our turn. Just concentrate on the images you want to display and they will emerge. I shall go first." She told them formal voice. She levitated to the front of the fire and fast the pack.
She turned to face them. Her eyes pierced the night searching for some sign. Finally she took a handful of dust in each hand and tossed it into the blaze. The flames danced all around her giving her the look of a she-devil. She began to dance and sing her tale. The image that appeared in the air was that of Richie and her embracing each other. "I am on a quest to save my one true love. I am also on a quest to determine who I truly am. Am I a human girl or a vampiress? You are the judge of that. Five nights ago I became aware of the presence of an ancient serial killer come to live again. It is my responsibility to hunt him down and destroy him. Or capture him so he may be judged by his peers for his crimes against humanity."
She left the stage with the rest of the pack urging her to continue her story but she refused to say anymore. She signaled for Static to go. He used his powers to tell the story of how he got his powers. The League members also told similar stories. By the time they were done there stories were now part of pack lore. It was time for the hunt.
The pack walked to the edge of the forest before stripping off their clothes. "I still don't get why they don't transform with their cloths on." Static alleged to Arra. "They can't. If they tried they would shred them. Come we have to be ready. You need to carry Batman. Remember you don't have to take part in the actual kill but you must give chase. Ready?"
"As ready as we will ever be. This is pointless." Batman told her.
"You're just upset that you had to wear a wolf pelt. Now shut up and let's go. They've begun." Wonder Women chided him taking off after the retreating pack followed closely by Superman and Arra. Static zapped him to his flying disk and they were off.
They plunged deep into the forest allowing only the moonlight to guide them. They picked up the scent of a deer and went after it. Baying to the moon they separated and charged the animal. The heroes played a key part in cornering the animal. The werewolves finished it off. All though they didn't like the killing part the hunt did serve its purpose. Their human minds hand gone back to the most primitive days when man hunted for survival. They were a unified force. Superman was elected to carry the kill back to campsite where they roasted it for the feast.
After stuffing himself silly for an hour Static noticed Arra getting really edgy. She kept glancing at the city of Dakota then at her watch. Something was troubling her deeply. Sighing he got up and walked over to her and asked, "Everything okay? You seem distracted by something. What is it?" He placed a comforting hand on her shoulder to reassure her.
"Everything fine Virgil. Really it is. It's just that I well you better call everyone over. I have to tell you something. Something very important." Arra told him calmly as she could.
A few minutes later the League gather in the shadows of the trees to listen to what Arra had to say. Her usual zeal was gone. She was very anxious about something. She kept wringing her hands. Finally she opened her mouth and spoke. " I hope that you are enjoying yourself tonight. I know some of you didn't want to be here. What I have to tell you may disturb you but I must speak. I need to go hunting."
"But we just hunted. I don't understand what you mean." Static told her unsure of where this was leading. But one of the group had already guessed.
"No you can't be serious. How dare you call what your about to do hunting. Its evil." Batman growled menacingly at her.
"I have no choice. What I need to hunt for is blood. I am in need of another feed. My powers are diminishing without it. I know you think its cruel but to me humans are prey, but only when I need there blood. If I don't get some tonight I won't be much help. The next time I'll need to feed will be late Saturday early Sunday at the latest. I only told you so you wouldn't worry when I leave. I'll be back before the sunrises." Arra told them getting ready to leave.
"Arra! You can't I mean are you sure? What if you hurt someone?" Wonder Women asked her.
"We can't let you do this. Its wrong Arra to feed off the blood of others. There must be another way. I can't condone this." Superman told her looking at her with pity on his face. He didn't know what to do.
"There is no other way. I know that this must upset you but I need the blood. I will die without it. If your concern two of you follow me. Other wise I can't wait any longer. I'm going now. Follow me if you dare." Arra said before flirting off towards Dakota.
"I'll go after her and make sure she doesn't kill someone. We have to trust her. After all she's been doing this for centuries." Static said unfolding his flying disk. Who's coming with me?"
"I'm coming. Arra is keeping something from us and I intend to discover the truth. Plus someone has to make sure she doesn't cross the line." Batman told him getting on his desk. " Stay here and return with the pack to the boarding house. Will meet up with you later. Static lets go."
Arra was on the rooftop of an apartment building scanning the streets below. She glanced at her watch. Ten minutes till eleven. She had to find someone to feed on and fast. She was concentrating so heard she almost didn't hear the sounds of people approaching until it was almost too late. She turned around lighting fast and shot her nails at one assailant and nearly punched the living daylights out of the other.
"Wow Arra stop its us! Please don't hit me I like the way my face is arranged." Static said holding his hands up defensively. Batman was calmly removing nails from his cape.
"What were you two bone heads thinking! I could have killed you or at the very least broke your jaw! Why are you following me? Don't you trust me?" Arra asked standing up.
"As I seem to recall you said that two of us should follow you. After hearing you descriptions of your feeding habits I'm not surprised that people confuse you with vampanzees." Batman told her.
"How dare you compare me to that serial killer. There is nothing wrong with my appetite for blood. Is it wrong when a leech or vampire bat take a little blood to fill their stomachs?" Arra demanded angrily.
"No, but their animals." Static said. "That's not the point. What I do is no different."
"So you're calling yourself an animal? That's real smart comparing yourself to an animal. You're nothing but a predator, a super smart one at that. You say you care about humans but if you did you wouldn't be doing this." Batman told her.
Her eyes welled up with angry tears. "How dare you insult me! I am not a monster. You're the monster. Have you no heart or are you always this cruel. You think I'm some kind of threat to mankind well you couldn't be more wrong. I won't stand for this. If you think you know so much then try to keep up. I'll prove to you I'm not some heartless killer." Arra told him angrily. Wiping her tears from her face she turned and ran towards the edge and leaped off.
Static and Batman rushed to the side in time to watch her stick her nails into the side of the next building whirling herself around the side. She grabbed a flagpole and did a handstand before launching herself into the air. Using her levitation ability she landed three buildings down and did an impressive display of gymnastic tricks with her super strength that would put Shebang to shame before continuing to run.
Static whistled long and loudly. "Okay I'm impressive. Come on before we lose her." He took off flying while Batman launched a grappling hook and followed him.
Arra stopped around five blocks away and sniffed the air. She picked up the scent of human and a dog nearby. Using her hearing she pinpointed the noise about a block away. She turned and used her enhanced eyesight and spotted a young woman walking her dog. They were all alone. The perfect target to feed upon. The men arrived just as she levitated to the ground. Closing her coat so her weapons weren't visible she walked out of the alley and down the street towards the women.
Batman didn't like waiting. Usually he was very patient but right now this went against everything he stood for. Yes the girl had the right to live and she needed the blood in order for her powers to be at full strength but this was just wrong. "I'm putting an end to this. You stay here." Before he could move he found himself hovering two inches above the ground by static energy.
"You seem to have forgotten about my static cling. I've had enough of this. Your one of my heroes Batman and I've enjoyed working with you in the past but enough is enough. You're treating poor Arra a lot worse than you did with Allie. You don't seem to get it do you. None of us asked for these powers and were just kids. We all make mistakes but that's life. I'm going to release you and were going to watch Arra and if things get hairy will step in but not before clear? Arra's right you only have power as long as people are afraid of you and right now I'm not." Static told him letting him go. The older man glared at the teenager but made no move to leave the roof. They both turned to watch Arra.
Arra had stopped the young women and was politely asking her for the time. While she was distracted Arra put in a hypnotic suggestion saying she was tired. The instant she was in a trance Arra breathed her gas on her and the dog putting them to sleep. She dragged them both into the alley and opening her mouth wide she sank her fangs in and began to feed.
Static and Batman joined her five minutes later. She was still feeding zealously. "That's enough you don't need anymore." Batman ordered. Arra glared at him but stopped feeding. She spat on the wounds and a few seconds later there was a moon shape scar on her neck. "I wish you let me bottle some blood, but since you're in hurry Static check her wallet for an address. We can't leave her here. Batman carry the women I'll take Fido."
Ten minutes later they were in the women's apartment courtesy of Static. They laid the women on the couch and secured the place. "I'll check on her in a few days to make sure she's okay. All in all she probably won't remember being fed on. See I'm not a monster. I take good care of the humans I feed on. Let's go it's getting late." Arra told them. Without another word they left.
Hippacrites chuckled manically. Everything had worked out perfectly. He now had the solutions to the problems that had been plaguing him. Tomorrow they could initiate phase 2 of his brilliant plain. "All thanks to you Richie."
"I… didn't…. help… you willingly." Richie coughed. He was drained both physically and mentally. For the past several hours his brain had been probed and his mind raped. This was worse than the time Brainiac had taken control of him.
"Soon you will play the most important role in your young life. Kraven get in here now!" Hippacrites thundered angrily.
Kraven appeared and bowed low. "Yes my lord. What is it? Tell me what is your bidding for your most loyal servant?" he asked humbly.
"Gather your men I have an important annocement to make. We don't have to worry about him. He's not going anywhere." Hippacrites said rattling the cage.
A few minutes later forty five men had gathered in the largest room in the warehouse. They all looked at Hippacrites with absolute loyalty and pride. These men would gladly die for him. Each carried enough weapons to kill a small town. In their hands a goblet of fine wine with a few drops of vampanzee blood added.
"My humble servants. Our night of triumph is almost upon us. Tomorrow night we will began to assemble the final pieces needed in our quest. Let nothing stop you from obtaining your goal. No human, hero, or supernatural creature can touch you. We will be victorious and the vampanzee will walk the Earth as the supreme rulers of the night once more! Now drink up and gain you final dose of power. You'll need it." Hippacrites preached happily watching as the men drank the drugged wine. All was going according to plan. Soon everything would be his.