Chapter 4
Family Matters
Terri points to a chair beside her at the table.
"Hey Arthur. Got time for that chat?"
Arthur wracks his brain for an excuse. He finds none.
"Uh, sure. Cas will be along for dinner, she just had to run a couple errands."
Terri looks relieved.
"Oh good. One of the things I want to discuss with you she might think I'm crazy for. You might too, but…"
Arthur grins chuckling slightly.
"Mom, you're not crazy. You're a little eccentric with your work, and you worry about me too much, but honestly, I'd rather have that than not to have you in my corner at all."
Terri smiles, grabbing her son's hand on the table. Arthur smiles back, though he is pained slightly. He hates being dishonest with his mother. Before moving to Crimson Beech, they were very close. Arthur takes his phone out and places it on his leg. He opens a chat with Lewyn. He taps out the book names and hits "send".
"Arthur, I'll get this out of the way before I begin with the other topic. It's Cas. I know things started off with me not giving her a chance. All the while you were hanging around her getting to know her, I was thinking she was corrupting you. Then she proved to me she was a more than amazing person with the fire. Her and Gabriela rushing into that school to get you out. So that brings me to another thing. Did you and Gabriela ever have a thing? They both seem to have a vested interest in you. I see you and Cas are getting real close. I can see you adore each other. But when you were unconscious and healing, Cas was watching your bedside while I went to work one day. Gabriela was here when I came home. I heard her talking to you, so I got excited thinking you were awake. I shot up the stairs to see for myself, and before I rounded the corner, I heard Gabriela tell you she loved you with all her heart and that she would be so lost if you didn't come back to her. So I have to know, are you… What do you kids call it? 'Playing the field'?"
Arthur's jaw drops. Not just at the revelation about Gabriela, but also at the accusation he had just received. He does his best to compose himself.
"Look, Mom. I would never 'play the field'. That's just so… No. I love Cas. She and I share a bond like no other I've ever felt in my life. She just gets me. So does Gabriela. But Gabriela is my best friend, nothing more. Honest. The only time I even flirted with her was the first day of school when we met. After that, she and I have been strictly platonic since I met Cas and started hanging out with her."
Arthur's phone buzzes on his leg with a text from Lewyn.
Lewyn: "yes, well i already knew that information, arthur.
has she said anything about them at all?"
Me: "We r talking rt now. Stand by."
Arthur looks back up to his mom when she speaks.
"Well, you may want to have a chat with Gabriela then. I don't think she's on the same page as you are. And if she is your best friend, then I don't want to see either of you hurt."
Arthur internally winces. (Yeah, as if I'm not in enough trouble with her already.) On the surface, however, He gives Terri a light smile.
"That actually sounds good. I sure hope she hasn't been pining for me this whole time. I'd feel horrible, and like a jerk for not knowing."
"Don't beat yourself up, dear. Just talk to her. If you're best friends, I'm sure you two will figure it out. Now, for the other thing I want to talk to you about. Dr. Junius has laid me off with full pay. It's something to do with the FBI taking over the investigation. But like I've said before, I think there's something more to these murders."
Terri opens a book with the title 'Vampire Characteristics and Lore" She continues as Arthur swallows hard. He pushes the record button on his phone. Terri points out a picture in the book and a picture from one of the crime scenes next to it.
"I did some comparison of the bite marks on the victims and the supposed bite of a vampire. Now I know vampires aren't supposed to be real, but the last couple nights I've been having these weird dreams that have vampires in them. Cas is a vampire. Gabriela is a vampire. Principal Yao is a vampire. Even Dr. Junius is a vampire in these dreams. I know it must sound crazy, but these dreams feel so real. Arthur, have you had such dreams?"
Arthur quickly stops the recording and sends it to Lewyn as he stalls his mother.
"Am I a vampire in these dreams, Mom?"
"Well, no, but you're friends with them all the same. Arthur, please tell me I'm not crazy. Please tell me you believe me, tell me that you know something…"
"I believe you about your dreams, Mom, but I'm afraid…"
Arthur's phone vibrates with a message from Lewyn.
Lewyn: call me immediately!
"Ah this is Cas. She wants me to call her quick Just give me a moment, Mom? I'll see what she wants and I'll get right back to it with you."
Terri waves Arthur off with a slight smile and he stands and walks out the door onto the patio. After the door is shut, he dials Lewyn.
"Arthur? This isn't good. I fear our memory spell is slipping on your mother. Other than those books, you haven't shown her any vampire characteristics of yourself or anyone else, have you?"
"No, Cas and I have been very careful around her and have acted like perfectly normal humans."
"I see. Well I fear we will have to reset your mother's memories once more. Is Harlow there too? Can you guys make up an excuse to leave so Astoria and I can come perform the spell?"
"No, Cas has gone home til about dinnertime, said she was going to look for Gabriela."
"Why on earth for?"
"We had a scuffle after the meeting today."
"Ah. Well perhaps…"
"Wait, Lewyn. I know I'm at a serious disadvantage of knowledge here, but hear me out. Mom and I used to talk about our dreams quite often back in Maine, and she may be just trying to reconnect with me, as we have been pretty distant since we moved here. I want to see what else she has to say, and if I can keep her thinking it is just a dream, it may pass as such."
"I must say you have more knowledge of how to deal with your mother than I, but the moment you see this go awry, you need to contact me so we can handle it. I wish you luck, Arthur. Please whatever you do, make sure this is handled so we don't have to worry about our existence being exposed."
"Loud and clear, Lewyn. I will let you know what happens either way."
"I appreciate that, Arthur."
Arthur ends the call and returns to the dining room table.
"Everything alright with Cas?"
"Uh, yeah. So, Mom. What have you read about vampires so far? Do you really think they could be real?"
"Arthur, please don't make fun of me. I know this all sounds ridiculous, but unfortunately it's the only good lead I've had…"
Arthur grabs Terri's hand, startling her a little.
"Mom, I'm not making fun of you. I'm here for you. We used to talk about our dreams all the time and what they could mean. So I want to talk about this like old times. Maybe your dreams could be pointing you in a good direction; we just have to decipher their meaning."
Terri smiles, reveling at her son's caring demeanor.
"So lets' take it from the top, Mom. What are our similarities again?"
"Oh, well there's the bite marks, as I said. Then, many of the bodies that came in were very low on remaining blood. Given the gruesome nature of the murders, I was thinking the victims bled out onto the ground, but maybe they were drained? That fits the vampire M.O. Then the last little bit I have pieced together is the fact that vampire lore says that they only go out at night, because sunlight harms them. And because of such, they live in caves and grottos to escape the sun. And given the proximity to town that most of the murders occurred, the fact that they all happened at night, and that the forest rangers have mentioned many caves in the area around the murders, that also fits."
Arthur is quite impressed with Terri's research.
"So, since vampires aren't real, is there an animal that fits that descriptor and M.O.?"
"No. that's just it. Nothing but the impossible fits."
They are both silent for a bit. Arthur thinks it over. He decides to push the limits of Terri's imagination.
"So, let's say hypothetically that vampires did exist. How would you feel about that? Would it open and shut the cases?"
"Arthur. Now you're just making fun of me."
"No, I'm not. Remember. We're trying to interpret your dreams. So how would you react to finding out that it was the missing piece in the investigation?"
"Well, it would certainly wrap everything up in a nice little package. But as to how I'd feel about vampires themselves, I'd be conflicted."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, if we were just referring to vampires in general, it would be scary. But in my dreams, they are people I know. So it would be hard to discredit them as villains or criminals for acting upon their natural way of life."
Arthur smiles.
"What?"
Arthur smiles again.
"Nothing. I just get a kick out of how analytically you think of things. Ok, one more question, Doc. If your dreams were true, and vampires not only existed, but were part of your everyday life, would you be able to keep it a secret?"
"I… Well…"
"Now keep in mind how ridiculous you as a doctor think the possibility is. Just imagine how the general public would react."
"I see your point. I guess I'd have to keep the secret?"
"You guess?"
"Well I guess it would depend on if your safety was at stake… Wait one minute…"
The light bulb goes on in Terri's head.
"Arthur you can't be telling me…"
"Please answer my question."
Terri ponders it for a few moments. She looks up with a calming resolve on her face.
"Yes, Arthur. I would keep the secret. I could see how it would cause an incident… That the government would surely swoop in to cover up. Oh. My. God. It was here the whole time and I completely ignored my gut instinct!"
Arthur smiles.
"I had to know you'd keep the secret or your memory would have to be wiped again."
"So that's what you and Cas were talking about last night. I snuck up to see if you two were comfortable and overheard you talking. That's how I had the dreams."
"More like memories. You remembered beyond the spell. And Cas and I must have triggered it."
"So they really are vampires?"
"Yes."
"So you and I are the only humans that know…"
"Nope, only one human."
"What do you mean?"
Arthur steels himself for his next move. He closes his eyes and changes them. Terri gasps loudly. She is in awe at the sight of her son. Hesitantly, she reaches over and touches his cheek.
"What have they done to you?"
"They kept me alive, Mom."
As the words are out, Cas bursts through the door.
"Hey Arthur! Come quick! Adalhard's in a real bad way!"
She stops short seeing Arthur and Terri obviously in a conversation they shouldn't be having. She sighs.
"Oh Shit… What happened Arthur? You haven't lost control, have you?"
Arthur looks shocked.
"No, not at all. Mom just figured it out and we were discussing it. It's ok. She will keep the secret."
Cas has a forlorn look on her face.
"Good luck telling that to Lewyn and Astoria…"
Terri butts in.
"Whats wrong with Gabriela?"
Cas refocuses on the matter at hand.
"She on the high cliff. She won't back down. Says she will jump. She wouldn't even speak to me except to say she would only talk to you."
Everyone looks in awe at one another for a split second then jumps to their feet. Arthur looks to Cas.
"We'd better go!"
Terri interjects.
"I'll drive you two."
Cas speaks first, then Arthur.
"We can't get to the cliff by car directly."
"And we're faster on foot anyway."
Terri asserts her motherly concern loudly.
"Well I'm coming along."
Cas and Arthur share a look. Arthur addresses his mom.
"Look. I'll explain everything you need to know when we return. I promise."
"Look, I have lots of questions, sure. But I can tell you guys aren't some evil demon-spawn, and right now one of you is in trouble. Let's go help Gabriela out."
Cas speaks up.
"We do need to go, Arthur."
Arthur sighs.
"Alright, Mom. Get on my back."
Arthur lowers himself slightly to allow Terri climb on his shoulders. Cas looks concerned.
"Arthur are you sure? You've never carried anyone before."
Arthur stands tall.
Let's just go Babe. How do we know she hasn't jumped yet. And mom? Huddle down and close your eyes. Should help with motion sickness."
In a flash, Arthur and Cas take off for the cliff. Terri hangs on for dear life as the couple rush through the forest. Just shy of the cliff, Arthur stops. He lets his mom down.
"Mom, you OK?"
Terri shakes her head a couple times.
"Ah, Yes. Wow that is truly impressive."
Cas interjects pulling some brush to the side.
"She's right over here."
Arthur steps out first, followed by Cas and Terri.
"Gabriela?"
Gabriela doesn't move from her position on the edge of the cliff. She only acknowledges Arthur's presence.
"Arthur."
"Gabriela, what are you doing? Cas says something about jumping…"
Gabriela cuts him off.
"Oh did she now?! Just like her to swoop in and take all the credit all the time."
"What the hell, Adal…"
Arthur cuts Cas off by holding his hand against her mouth. He looks to Cas and Terri and shakes his head. Gabriela huffs out a sigh. Arthur addresses Gabriela once more.
"Well I'm here now. Maybe we can talk? I can send these two away if need be."
Gabriela turns slightly to see Terri standing there with a somber expression.
"Dr. Morgan…"
Terri puts a hand on Cas' shoulder directing her away.
"Let's give them time to talk."
Cas begins to follow, but Gabriela speaks up.
"I really don't care if Harlow is here or not, but Arthur and Dr. Morgan… It'd be nice to… Arthur I need you to..."
Tears begin streaking down Gabriela's face. Arthur points to the rock they sat on the last time they were here.
"Then let's sit down and talk, shall we?"
Gabriela nods and moves towards the rock. Cas sits on the other side of Arthur and Terri finds another rock to sit on close by.
"Ok, we have a lot to discuss, obviously. What is so bad that you were about to throw yourself off that cliff?"
"Well for starters, you called me… You insulted me! You're like the only best friend I have that actually understands me. Do you even know what you did?"
Arthur looks to his shoes.
"Yeah, I do…"
"Wait, what? So you did it on purpose?!"
Gabriela stands up, and Arthur grabs her wrist before she can move.
"No. Stop and hear me out."
Gabriela has more tears rolling, but finally nods and sits back down. Arthur releases her wrist, and he can feel that Gabriela didn't want him to.
"After you ran off Cas told me the story behind "Golden Girl". I had no idea it was that kind of insult. I thought it was because of your appearances at school, being class president and all."
Terri chimes in confused.
"How on earth is that supposed to be an insult?"
Cas leans in to whisper the story in her ear as Arthur continues. Gabriela panics.
"Wait! Cas! You can't tell her that!"
Arthur grabs Gabriela's shoulder and squeezes lightly.
"Yes she can. Mom knows. She figured it out and promises to keep it a secret."
"Oh, no. Lewyn and Astoria are going to kill us."
"No they aren't. I won't let them. But Gabriela, I'm so sorry I insulted you. I never meant it like that. I was mad and didn't think about what I was saying."
Cas finishes the story to Terri, who gets an angry expression and smacks Cas on the shoulder.
"Cas, that's just horrible!"
Cas reels in surprise of Terri's scolding. She turns to Gabriela and becomes somber.
"Look, Adalhard. I know we have a bad history. And I know you won't believe me, but I am going to be very honest with you. I'm sorry for insulting you. Having Arthur in my life has taught me many things. And one of them is that if we are to be a team, we have to treat each other more respectfully. Gabriela, I'm sorry. I mean it. I won't call you that anymore. Before Arthur came along, I was content keeping my distance from you. But now that we are spending a lot of time together, I don't want this to be so damned difficult anymore."
Gabriela looks at Cas with a ghost of a smile.
"That's another thing I'm upset about. Is Arthur."
Arthur perks up.
"Me? What about me?"
"Well I care for you, Arthur. And I just need to know if it's serious between you and Cas. I don't want her wasting your time. I don't want you hurt."
"Well, I'm sorry if this hurts your feelings, but yes Cas and I are serious. I love her, Gabriela. Mom said she heard you say you loved me. I will say, I do care a lot about you too, but as a friend. My best friend. Nothing more, though. I hope you haven't been pining for me all this time. Have you?"
Gabriela looks to her shoes.
"Well for about the last month. I've been thinking this thing with Cas would die out. But I see that it's not. I'm not gonna lie, I am hurt a little, but I'm happy for you if it's serious."
Arthur looks over at Cas and smiles, grabbing her hand in his.
"Yes we are, Gabriela. And I still would like to have you as my best friend, if you can accept that, that is."
Gabriela is straight faced, but has calmness in her eyes.
"Yes I can, Arthur."
"I am sorry you're hurt. And I'm sorry about insulting you. Cas and I talked about it, and have decided to bury that nasty insult. Please believe Cas when he says she's sorry. I know it's hard, but I believe her."
Cas leans forward to address Gabriela.
"And I am sorry Gabriela. I hope we can make a pact to get along. Not like best friends or anything, But I don't want to fight about everything."
Gabriela smiles.
"I get it, Cas. I accept your apology. And yeah, I don't see us becoming best buds either, but I would like to get along too."
Gabriela rises to her feet. Cas gets a shocked expression.
"Hey, no hugs!"
They all burst out laughing.
Gabriela holds out her hand grinning.
"Handshake then?"
Cas accepts it with a smirk.
"Ok, I can do that."
Arthur takes in a scene he never thought he would see. Gabriela and Cas agreeing to get along. He steps up, stands between them and puts a hand on each of their shoulders.
"Now there's just one more thing to do, and that is fill in my mom on how I became a vampire. The whole story from the beginning. I'd like it if you guys could help me out."
Cas and Gabriela nod in agreement. They spend the next half our telling Terri all about the past couple month's events, how they kept it hidden. Terri for the most part takes it well, she gets a pained look every time Arthur seemed in danger or when he had to be dishonest with her about something. However, when they got to the part about the creator, and Arthur's mission to take him down, Terri loses her grip on her emotions. Tears stream down her face as she grabs Arthur's hand.
"You should've all came to the hospital. You would've been safe there."
Arthur shakes his head.
"That wouldn't have saved us. We'd all be dead."
Cas backs him up.
"It's true. Even with how old Lewyn and Astoria are, they said they couldn't have taken him on forever. He was getting too powerful from the ley line energy."
Terri thinks aloud.
"So that's how you guys aren't affected by the sun."
Cas and Gabriela nod. Arthur chimes in.
"But we can't stray too far from town. About 5 miles in any given direction, and we lose that protection. So it's either travel in a windowless van to the safety of another ley line, or travel by night. And speaking of windowless vans, Mom do you know if Hannibal's number is the same as it was?"
"I'm sure it is. Why do you ask?"
Arthur looks over to Cas and Gabriela. Both nod but Cas puts her hand on Arthur's shoulder and gives it a squeeze.
"I need to get ahold of the team. There is another creator around Montreal Canada and we need their help taking him out."
Arthur explains the revelation that the Flagstone Cove vampires brought forth. Terri is in shock.
"Arthur! It's so dangerous! Why can't someone else deal with it?"
Arthur gets serious.
"Because Mom. We're the only ones that can deal with it. We are the only ones with experience fighting these things. Vampires in the past have assassinated them as they woke, but for all we know he could wake at any minute, and then it's time for brute force. Not many vampires even know of their existence. Hell, us three had to research them in the coven's library to even know what we were dealing with."
Terri nods.
"Then you're right to get The A-Team. But how are you going to convince them vampires exist? I'll admit, if it wasn't you telling me and showing me, I surely wouldn't."
Astoria's voice booms from the bushes.
"And he shall soon find out that was a mistake."
Astoria and Lewyn step out from the bushes both looking sour.
"What do you mean? She figured it out on her own, and then before I could do anything else, Cas warned me that Gabriela was here and suicidal.
Lewyn straightens at the mention of Gabriela's actions.
"Oh my. I see."
Gabriela responds.
"It's OK, Lewyn. Arthur talked me down. He brought me back to my senses."
Astoria interjects with a huff.
"Well isn't that just dandy. Arthur's the hero again. But that doesn't make up for him breaking a coven law."
Arthur speaks almost immediately.
"Problem is, I don't belong to either coven, so how are you to punish me?"
Lewyn and Astoria look at each other. Arthur continues.
"But I tell you what. I say we go to the Nexus right now and get this all straightened out. We can write up a contract for all to sign that gives my mother the OK to know about the Crimson Beech vampires."
Astoria questions Arthur coldly.
"And how would that possibly negatively affect you? There's no punishment."
Arthur smiles, then answers.
"Because her actions would fall solely on my shoulders. Meaning anything she does to expose us, I get punished for. I trust her to keep us a secret. But I'll even sweeten the deal, Astoria. Since you want punishment, I will offer myself to punishment by the silver brand."
Gabriela gasps and Lewyn disagrees.
"Arthur, NO!"
"The silver brand is a serious punishment and is to only be dealt out by a tribunal vote."
Arthur stands firm.
"Offer stands regardless. And I need to call Hannibal so I can get the ball rolling on The A-Team. So let's go, shall we?"
Astoria rolls her eyes, but doesn't fight it. Only glowers at Terri who just sends it right back. Lewyn steps aside with a flourish.
"Let's go, then Arthur."
About halfway to the Nexus, running at vampire pace, Terri this time on Gabriela's back, Arthur stops. He sways a bit, and Cas puts her hand on his shoulder in concern.
"What is it, babe?"
Arthur is silver eyed. He growls out a response
"I feel very thirsty."
Then the scent of blood hits them. Arthur looks to Gabriela and his mom. He can see her pulse points in her wrists and neck sort of laser focus in and his hunger grows. He looks away, covering his eyes.
"Gabriela, keep my mom here. I need to walk away for a moment."
Arthur begins to follow the scent of blood. Cas follows. Astoria is about to call them back, when Lewyn raises a hand, cutting her off. He only points to the couple as they follow the trail. Cas speaks to Arthur as they walk.
"I'm here, babe. I'll be here for you."
"Thank you, Cas. I appreciate it."
"No problem. I can tell you might need some blood the way you're reacting, but the scent isn't strong, so I bet it's an animal."
"Good enough for me, I just want this feeling to go away. We got important things to do…"
Arthur is cut off as he comes into a small clearing. Off to the opposite side of the clearing is a mountain lion dragging the corpse of a deer it had killed.
"Arthur, it's a dead deer. As much as I hate blood bags, that would do you better right now."
"I don't want the deer. I'm going for the cat."
Cas looks over to Arthur, who is staring at the mountain lion hungrily. He licks his fangs in anticipation.
"Arthur, come on. Let's get you some blood to hold you over."
"Hey, you said I'd have to make a kill. This is me easing into this lifestyle at my own pace. Just wait here."
Cas stays put and Arthur begins to stalk the mountain lion. His movement is a blur, but it's enough to make the cat stop and look around. Arthur is able to sneak up on it from behind. Just as Arthur is ready to pounce, the cat turns to hiss, not knowing it would be the last thing it ever did. Arthur pounces at lightning speed and sinks his fangs into the mountain lion's neck. A couple futile thrashes later, the cat goes limp as Arthur drains it of its life force. His hunger somewhat satisfied, he stands and takes a breath, eyes shut. He opens them to see Lewyn ad Astoria standing there, smiles on their faces. Arthur can see a fleeting moment pride in Astoria's face. He begins to smile, until he looks over to see Gabriela and his mom standing there, too. Gabriela is looking to the ground; his mom has her hand over her mouth. She doesn't appear mortified, more mildly shocked. Astoria speaks up.
"I'll be honest; I didn't think you'd take to this so easy. I thought we would have to train you. But I stand corrected. This is a great first step!"
Cas wraps her arm around Arthur.
"Yeah, you did great."
Lewyn speaks next.
"I am pleased to see you control yourself so well, Arthur. Though I wish you would've let me know you were having cravings. I have blood I could have given you."
Astoria scoffs and Terri looks at Lewyn confused. Arthur waves him off.
"I've already promised Cas I would let her know when I have urges. Hopefully that will hold me off for a couple weeks til it's time again…"
Astoria interrupts.
"Doubtful. You will probably need at least one or maybe two more like this in the next week. That's why human blood is best. But not that cold hospital blood. Fresh is best."
Arthur approaches Lewyn and Astoria.
"I understand that, Astoria. However, I am not in favor of murdering some poor soul to satisfy a craving that I can satisfy another way. And Lewyn, keep that sickening bagged blood for yourself."
Cas laughs, and the group continues towards the Nexus.
"He's got all the makings of a great Venandi!"
Astoria disagrees, however.
"Not yet he doesn't. This is just a baby step. Arthur has a long way to go, and is running out of time for a decision of coven. I will not allow a member of my coven to constantly drink blood from animals."
Lewyn weighs in.
"I don't like it, either. There was only one other vampire that did that years ago. Garrett Anderson. He was well versed at keeping his thirst in check, but he was not as strong as the rest of us and developed a reputation as a "vegetarian vampire."
Astoria scoffs.
"Yeah. I remember him. Kinda loopy, too."
Just outside the Nexus, Arthur turns to Terri.
"You alright, Mom? You've been quiet."
"Yeah, I'm OK. I am just in shock of how quickly you took down that mountain lion."
"You saw that? I'm sorry Mom. I told you to stay put. I didn't want to gross you out or anything."
"No, you didn't. It's just that you took down a super strong predator that's capable of killing us, and you did it without any weapons. I'm just really surprised."
Talk ceased as everyone walked into the meeting chamber.
Lewyn grabs a piece of parchment and a fountain pen. After some writing, he turns to the group.
"This contract reads as such: 'Terri Morgan is to keep the existence of vampires a secret both of Crimson Beech and of all other local covens. She is to treat all Crimson Beech vampires and any allies of Crimson Beech as allies of her own, and any action that hereby threatens Crimson Beech or any allied vampires or their lives is punishable to Terri herself, but moreover most of the punishment falls on the shoulders of Arthur Morgan, vampire of Crimson Beech and member of the _ Coven'."
Arthur looks between Astoria and Lewyn.
"I do not agree with all of either covens rules. So I hereby pronounce my loyalty to my own coven I'm creating named the Morgan Coven."
Everyone in the chamber is shocked. Astoria breaks the silence.
"A power play, Morgan. I have to admit I'm continually impressed with you. But you can't just start a coven. It needs to be voted on by the council. And that is to even recognize the coven itself, let alone whether we allow you to share the ley line with us. Two covens is really too much as it is."
"Well then how about we make it into one? Instead of the Venandi and Clement covens, we unite as one to become The Crimson Beech coven."
Lewyn and Astoria's mouths fall open. Lewyn sputters out a response.
"Arthur. Do you realize what you're suggesting?"
Arthur cuts him off while pointing to Lewyn then Astoria.
"Yeah. It means both of you doing away with some of that bullshit attitude and resentment for each other. Leaving the archaic squabbling in the past and coming together to work together. I mean, you already do for the most part. The meetings are all about what both sides have to say, and calling a vote amongst all of us. And look at how we all came together against the Creator."
Cas speaks, surprise in her tone.
"You know, when you put it like that babe, it does sound appealing."
Lewyn holds his hand up.
"Again, that would take a meeting and a vote. I will leave this contract blank for now until we have some sort of decision made. Now, are these terms acceptable to all present here?"
Everyone nods in agreement, and Arthur steps up.
"And the silver brand?"
"I am not going to punish you, Arthur. Mainly because this contract seals you to any future punishment on the matter."
Astoria steps forward as well
"And in light of your first kill, even if it was an animal, I think that leap in progress makes up for this instance. Remus is right. You do have leadership in you. Lewyn and I are starting to see that turning you wasn't the mistake we thought it was. But trust is not built overnight. You need to be more forthcoming in the future if you are to appeal to us. We don't revel in banishing any vampire, but will do so if respect isn't shown to our laws and decisions."
"Something Astoria and I agree on 100 percent. Now, we need to sign at the bottom, Terri, Arthur, Astoria, Myself and Gabriela as the witness."
As everyone signs the paper, Terri steps up. Before signing, she looks at Arthur.
"You shouldn't be responsible for my actions."
"It's the ramifications of my own actions. Someone has to pay the price, and accept the punishment. It's how it works. I trust you, Mom, you'll do just fine. And if you slip up, well we will just worry about that later."
"I promise to do my best, Arthur. I don't want to see you hurt."
Arthur smiles and signs after Terri. He turns to address Gabriela.
"Since the topic came up with Cas earlier, I have been thinking I should give you some of these talismans for safe keeping and for your family history project. I can't use them anymore, because most of them revolve around silver. They are good history pieces, and I want to know they are safe. Plus I'd like to honor your family history even if it's not all vampire friendly."
Gabriela is stunned at the offer.
"That's so nice of you Arthur. Although I think our new resident human should have them for her protection"
Astoria begins to object.
"Now wait a minute. She could unintentionally hurt us."
Arthur cuts her off.
"Not if I train her on proper use. I know how they all work, and I know she wouldn't use them unless she had no other option. Just like me, Astoria."
Terri affirms this.
"Absolutely. That is a promise."
Cas looks at Astoria.
"And you know how well Arthur used those in our fight for the town. He kicked some major ass!"
Astoria folds and waves her hands.
"I suppose I don't care. If she pledges to be careful, and knowing that if she messes up, we have someone to punish. Though Terri, do be very careful with those. Some have the power to completely kill a vampire."
Terri nods solemnly.
"I promise you I will."
Arthur chimes back in.
"And if the two coven leaders have just a few more moments, I can teach Mom here and now in front of you so you can see and correct me if I get anything wrong. And afterwards I'll take everyone out to eat at the café uptown."
Lewyn and Astoria share a pleased glance. Lewyn urges Arthur on.
"By all means. I'm glad you take this seriously and take including us seriously."
Arthur removes the Sensory Talisman first. He gives a full description of each talisman and what it does. Astoria chimes in from time to time to explain the dangers of being careless with the lethal talismans. Arthur has to give Terri each talisman to attach herself, as her bracelet is silver. Soon Terri's bracelet is full with charms and talismans. Seeing Cas' charm as the only one left on Arthur's bracelet, Astoria takes out an aged envelope from under her assigned chair in the chamber. She slowly opens it and slides out an antique gold chain with a single emblem attached to it.
"This necklace belonged to my husband. He died at the hands of a vampire hunter over a century ago. Before Captain Adalhard ever came around. This crest attached is that of the Venandi. It always brought him protection. If you hold it in your hand and squeeze, it alerts the whole coven that you are in trouble. Arthur, I want you to have this. Put Cassie's talisman on there too. If you are to court my niece, I don't want anything happening to you. Even if I don't fully trust you yet. I see you mean the world to her, and I want you safe."
Arthur is absolutely floored.
"Astoria, I… Thank you, but I can't accept that! It's your husband's after all!"
Astoria waves him off while placing it around Arthur's neck, fastening it. She puts a hand on Arthur's shoulder, continuing.
"Please Arthur. I've kept this for a century drawing strength from it and waiting to find someone worthy of carrying its legacy. I believe I have finally found them. Just don't disappoint, and it will make me the happiest I've been in ages."
Astoria backs up, smiling and Cas moves to Arthur's side. She unclasps Arthur's bracelet and attaches her talisman to the left of the Venandi crest.
"What she didn't tell you is she can track you with this. Anywhere you go, she will know where you are."
Astoria flushes a little, but Arthur nods to her.
"Makes sense. How can she protect me if she doesn't know where I am? Although I'm sure she wants to spy on me every so often, as to make sure I stay in line."
Both Arthur and Astoria grin at the same time. Lewyn steps forward as Cas returns to Arthur's side. He pulls out a medallion exactly like the one on Gabriela's necklace.
"This is our coven's equivalent. Our crest is inscribed on the back side. I give this to you, Arthur, as our newest fledgling. Normally you don't get one from both coven heads, but seeing you haven't chose a coven, and since both Astoria and I have a vested interest in you, I want you to have this on you."
Lewyn moves to attach the medallion next to Astoria's, but Arthur directs him to the left of Cas', as to separate them. Lewyn pauses. Arthur speaks.
"To give Astoria's husband respect. He is the only one other than family that should be by her side."
Arthur nods to Cas, and Lewyn nods to Arthur. Astoria's jaw drops as Arthur faintly smiles and nods her direction as well.
"Very well, Arthur. Thank you for being respectful."
Astoria straightens.
"Yes, indeed!"
Arthur checks his watch. It reads 5:30.
"Now I did say I'd take everyone out to eat, and I'm keeping my promise! It's about that time."
Gabriela interrupts, pulling out her own talisman.
"Wait! I know this is traditionally for courting purposes, but I'd like to give this talisman to Dr. Morgan. Since Arthur is my best friend, I want to help keep his family safe. Cas has got Arthur's back I'll have Dr. Morgan's"
Gabriela explains how the talisman works and looks for a spot on Terri's bracelet.
"Now I can't touch it, but one of your normal charms has to go to make room for this one…"
Arthur points to the ice cream cone charm.
"We already heard the story of that one. You should put that one in the scrapbook next to my baseball pictures."
"You really think so, dear?"
Arthur smiles at Terri.
"Definitely."
Smiling, Terri pulls the charm off the bracelet and fastens Gabriela's in its place.
"Gabriela, You can call me Terri."
Once outside the Nexus, everyone hikes though some dense brush to the nearest road. Here, Cas' Packard is parked. She takes her keys out and hands them to Arthur
"I think Arthur should drive."
Gabriela gasps. Terri is in awe.
"You're going to let someone else drive your car? Who are you and what have you done with Cas?"
"It's such a beautiful car!"
Cas beams with pride.
"Shut up, Gabby. You should see Arthur behind the wheel. He's great!"
Gabriela has a pained expression.
"Please don't call me Gabby…"
"Too late. Did it and liked it."
Gabriela sighs. She knows it's better than "golden girl" and that Cas is keeping her word. As Arthur grabs the keys he grins at Cas.
"Be careful, it just might become my car…"
Cas smiles at the quip as everyone piles in the car. Arthur, Cas and Terri up front, Astoria, Lewyn and Gabriela in the back.
"No worries. I have a couple more I'm working on at the garage. You don't think this one's always been this nice, do you?"
Terri looks around the interior.
"This is your work?"
"Well, the mechanicals, paint and bodywork are me, the interior I had done. I'm not your average girl, so don't expect me to mend your pants or sew buttons for you Arthur."
Arthur's interest peaks up as he pulls the car out onto the road. While he and Cas talk, everyone else is either in shock at Arthur's excellent driving, or the supreme quality of the ride.
"B.A. taught me some about cars back in Maine. I didn't know you were interested in cars, too Cas! I'd like to see what you have at the garage!
Both Arthur and Cas have the same fire in their eyes. Cas speaks matter of fact, but it's clear to Arthur that he has gotten her excited.
"They're both jalopies, Babe. But not forever…"
Pulling up to the café, Astoria and Arthur address Terri.
"Now Terri, you must not speak of what you know in public. Nothing at all can be said, lest we expose our secret."
"It's true, Mom. It sounds easy enough, but I know from experience that it's not. When we get in there, we need to talk hobbies, current events, and such. If it helps, pretend everyone here is just a normal human. Just two teens out with a mother, their principal and doctor."
Terri takes the warning in, finally nodding.
"Alright. I won't disappoint you guys."
Arthur smiles at Terri.
"We will have plenty of things to talk about; you won't even notice anything at all."
After parking the car, everyone heads into the café. Arthur holds back, though.
"Mom, I need Hannibal's number. I'm going to give him a call right now. Around this time of day is the best chance to catch the whole team, And I'd like to get the ball rolling."
Terri rattles the number off from memory. Cas hangs back with Arthur. She puts her hand on his back.
"I'll be here for you, Babe."
Arthur nods in appreciation. He dials the number, still unsure of how exactly he will convince the Colonel to help.