Chapter 41

When Pierce and Samuel woke, they had no idea how long they'd been underground. Both knew they weren't completely healed just yet, as they felt weak and sluggish despite the arrival of evening. Slowly, both made their way to the surface, leaving Carissa still safe within the earth. To their surprise, Gregori was waiting for them.

"How do you feel?"

"Tired," admitted Pierce.

"Speak for yourself," said Samuel, "with Carissa now understanding how to join with our minds, I think I could last a few more rounds with a vampire or two."

They heard a soft laugh and saw Mikhail on the porch of the cottage. He walked down the steps and smiled. "At least your spirit is still intact."

Pierce could feel their hunger rising. "How many days have we been underground?"

"Several," answered Gregori. When Samuel's eyes widened, the Dark One nodded. "Your injuries were quite extensive."

Mikhail stepped forward and extended his arm. "You were willing to sacrifice your lives for me. I am honored by your protection and you are indeed skilled hunters. You will always have my gratitude and respect." Samuel accepted Mikhail's warrior greeting and respectfully bowed his head. Then Pierce did the same.

Gregori scored his wrist and held it out to Samuel. "Take freely what I offer." With Samuel's hunger undeniable, he accepted the healer's blood while Mikhail offered his to Pierce.

Once the twins finished feeding, both felt their strength returning. Gregori advised they should still spend at least several more nights in the soil before returning to the United States. He also insisted to examine Carissa.

"She was safe in the cottage and unharmed," protested Samuel.

"But her mind was connected to both of you," replied Gregori. "Given that we have never encountered a bond such as this, it would be wise as just a precaution to ensure she had no lasting effects."

Pierce placed a hand on his twin's shoulder. "He only means well, Samuel." He looked at Gregori. "As we've only just recently been bound to Carissa, we're still having a hard time letting any other male even look at her."

Gregori arched an eyebrow. "And yet you can endure each other."

"It is connection hard to explain. We simply cannot be jealous of the other being with her. Our soul together is only complete with her."

"Yes, Shea shared some of the information she'd gathered from you," said Gregori.

Samuel suddenly gave a wide smile. "Did she mention how much Pierce wants time with only me in bed?"

Pierce choked and punched his brother's shoulder. "That is so not funny."

"You know, every time you hit me, you're just hurting yourself. You feel everything that happens to me."

"If it makes me feel better, than it's worth it."

Mikhail laughed and even Gregori gave way to at least a slight hint of a smile. The Prince looked over at where the twins had been in the ground. "Before Gregori examines your lifemate, I want to extend an invitation to my home this evening. I realize you need more time to heal, but this gathering is meant for all Carpathians that are present in our homeland. It is important for the three of you to be there as well."

The twins glanced uneasily at each other.

Mikhail retuned his gaze back to them. "I recognize the last gathering at my home was not pleasant for you. But after the trap with the vampires, I think it highly unlikely any Carpathian will question your loyalty or skill."

"Our union with Carissa will still be…unappealing to many of them," said Pierce quietly.

"I cannot deny that is what some will still be thinking," said Gregori, "but I can assure you that none of them now think it was caused by something evil. You protected our Prince, willing to sacrifice your lives. Only a true Carpathian would have such loyalty and honor."

Pierce frowned. "Yet some credit has to be given to Tyrell."

"It's not like he warned us in time," scowled Samuel. "So I think he needs to work on his credibility."

"Really? So saving our lifemate, us, and our Prince wasn't enough for you?"

\ "Whatever," muttered Samuel.

Gregori's silver eyes scanned the dark clouds. "I am certain he is nearby."

"Why do you say that?"

Mikhail answered. "We agreed as long as he swore an oath before Carissa stating he would not harm any innocent lives, then he is free to pursue his quest for Morrison, and possibly the master vampire who may have sent younger vampires in search of the Albino wizard."

"An oath?" asked Samuel.

"To Carissa?" asked Pierce.

The Prince nodded. "He is loyal to her and both of you."

Samuel scoffed. "I'm not sure loyalty is the word I would use. Sometimes I wonder if it's just his dark side thinking of claiming her for himself."

"Or perhaps it is the honorable Carpathian deep within, longing to overcome that darkness."

Samuel crossed his arms over his chest. "So what does that mean? If he brings down the master vampire or the Albino, you're going to forgive his past crimes?"

"I did not say that," Mikhail replied in a low voice. "Gregori is giving him five years. The SongMaker believes from his experience with the minerals that the emotion Tyrell has will last for at least that period of time."

"I thought the SongMaker killed the wizard in the early 1900's. If that was the case, he can last far longer than just five years," pointed out Pierce.

Samuel nudged his twin. Like we need him to be around longer than five years? Don't give the Prince any ideas, my brother.

Mikhail glanced at Samuel, as if knew exactly what the twin had been thinking. "Armando was prisoner to the wizard for many years. Tyrell was only held captive for a short time. I trust the SongMaker's judgement on the lasting power of these strange minerals. Unfortunately, Armando believes what Tyrell feels will also begin to fade over time, or even cause the wrong emotions."

"Wrong emotions?"

Gregori frowned. "Armando experienced fleeting emotions which were illogical. When he should have felt happiness, he felt anger. Until he claimed his lifemate, the SongMaker's mind became extremely unstable. The one crime he committed, even though it was not intentional, haunted him through what he believed would be his final days. He was only able to hold on because of his loyalty to Prince Vlad."

"And Tyrell has loyalty to Carissa, which you believe will hold him for five years?"

Mikhail tilted his head. "I assure you, Tyrell did not save my life out of loyalty to me. She is the one, for whatever reason, that reminds him of what he used to be as a Carpathian, not a vampire."

"Maybe it's because she destroyed the minerals which controlled him," sighed Pierce.

The Prince looked thoughtful. "Perhaps. I also wonder if Tyrell managed to get his hands on more of those minerals…could there be a way to restore emotion fully to other vampires?"

Gregori growled. "Their crimes cannot be forgiven, Mikhail."

"No, but maybe we can find a way to use the minerals to buy some of our hunters more time."

Samuel clenched his jaw. "But if the SongMaker's mind was compromised by his emotional guilt over one crime, what could happen to Tyrell given his past as a vampire?"

The Prince briefly looked into the night sky. "Back when I first met Tyrell, I could sense the shame he felt when Darius made him admit to those crimes in front of Carissa. I'm certain that was an emotion he did not think would ever happen. If Tyrell was actually able to find his lifemate, I cannot imagine what anguish he would go through, given he intentionally harmed the innocent in his past. In fact, I have to wonder if his darkness may even cause him to completely resist claiming her now that he has actual emotion."

"But…why?"

He looked at the twins with grave eyes. "What would you do if you were in his place?"

Pierce swallowed hard. "I'm uncertain if I could live with myself." He already had a hard enough time justifying his twin and himself sharing one female. Samuel always appeared to push it aside with his emotion. Now Pierce realized it was most likely a defense mechanism his brother created to avoid thinking too much about their union, which was seen as dishonorable by any Carpathian male. The twins at least could justify their actions because they shared a soul. It was most likely the only reason they were able to cope with the situation.

Mikhail nodded. "If Tyrell was somehow restored to his true Carpathian state, I believe he would choose to face the dawn as a last act of honor. With how we are made, honor is everything to us. It is imprinted upon all of our males. If the darkness overtakes a male, they completely destroy that sense of honor and only care about themselves. But if restored…it may create such a conflict within the mind, it's hard to imagine what may happen. Razavan must face this at times because he was possessed by a wizard who forced him to rape females to produce children for blood. He must constantly fight to remain stable when he sees the children that were made as a result. I believe Armando is worse, given the fact that his controlled emotions drove him to kill a child, the most inconceivable crime to him, as his sole purpose is to protect our children. That one dishonorable act creates instability at times. He had a close enough call with the recent traumatic event he faced in the last several days. The death of Anna surfaced in his mind, which almost drove him to a breaking point."

The twins grew alarmed. "What happened?" asked Samuel.

"And why is not here telling us this information himself?" asked Pierce.

It was hard to read Mikhail's response. "He needs…recovery time. But he has promised to be at the event this evening, so you will see him. Unfortunately, Armando isn't the only one who has had some difficulty. Nikolai, my nephew is still missing."

"Was he taken?" asked Pierce in a concerned voice.

"He left on his own free will. He is too young to be on his own. We have searched everywhere and cannot find any trace of him. Even my own blood connection cannot seem to reach him." Mikhail's heart sank as he once again was reminded of the nephew now lost to him. Raven was there in an instant, sending him her warmth and love. The Prince quickly changed the subject. "Tyrell's arrogance is actually of some use to him in his current state. With emotion, he is caught between being a Carpathian and a vampire. Because he does not fully admit that honor is what currently drives his actions against our enemies, he hasn't yet had to face such a conflict in his mind."

"Because he calls it vengeance," said Samuel.

Gregori nodded. "There is a difference between revenge and justice."

"Revenge is personal," murmured Pierce. Justice carried out was on behalf of the Carpathians and to protect the innocent. Tyrell's thoughts were still only of himself. The only glimmer of hope with linking his actions to be for anyone else was…Carissa.

Pierce shifted uncomfortably.

Samuel grimaced. She alone will not bring him to his former Carpathian state. Only his true lifemate could probably do such a thing.

But she senses the good in him. She will not want him killed.

If his emotion begins to fade, she will see signs of him returning to the darkness. She may have a different opinion in five years. He may even welcome death at that point.

Gregori scanned the sky once more before looking at the twins again. "Will you allow me to examine Carissa?"

Samuel grew tense but gave a curt nod. The healer walked to where Carissa was buried within the earth, left his body, and went inside her to be certain she was healthy, both physically and mentally. But the moment Gregori began to examine her, the wind picked up, forcing the Dark One to take a step back and return to his body.

A black, thick mist slowly swirled on the spot where Gregori had stood. Tyrell emerged, taller than any of them, and fully dressed as usual in complete black. His full trench coat left unzipped almost resembled a cloak as he blew in the wind. He hadn't bothered to tie back his smooth, black hair which fell far below his wide shoulders. His eyes, cold and piercing, glared at the twins.

"You dare to allow another male touch your lifemate?" he hissed.

Pierce knew his brother was going to snap back, so he tried to calmly answer for both of them. "Gregori is the greatest healer. He was only trying to ensure that she suffered no ill effects after the battle."

Tyrell made a point of showing his fangs. "You have still much to learn when it comes to her protection. As her lifemates, you should both do such a thing yourselves and trust no one with her life."

Gregori subtly moved in front of Mikhail. "I find it hard to believe your lecture is justified when it comes to the protection of innocent females."

Tyrell sneered. "Not with typical human females. Carissa is unique." He shot the twins another glare. "Unless you have already forgotten?"

Samuel growled. "Back off, Tyrell, or you may find yourself in a battle you cannot win this time."

Mikhail stepped around Gregori and held up his hands in a peaceful gesture. "No one here would ever harm Carissa. She is one of us, and we will always provide protection when needed."

"Your words are empty to me, Prince of the Carpathians."

Gregori connected with Mikhail. His emotion is one of complete distrust. He appears to be willing to accept his darkness. Perhaps Armando was wrong and the minerals will not have that long of an effect on him.

But Mikhail disagreed. Other than her lifemates, Tyrell has little tolerance for any other males even near Carissa. I believe it is simply his overwhelming urge to protect her, even though he does not understand that deep down, it's because of his desire to regain his honor. As a result, he tends to overreact when he feels she could be threatened in any way.

"Are you finished having your conversation with your favorite?" snapped Tyrell. "Stand back and allow the twins to bring their lifemate to the surface."

Gregori growled as the Prince complied. No one ever ordered Mikhail to do anything…

I'm thinking this is not the time to argue about that topic, replied Mikhail dryly on their private connection.

He needs to learn his place.

The only way that is going to happen is if you two go at it and I'm not in the mood to see my lifemate and daughter upset by the aftermath.

I wouldn't be the one who would need a healing session.

Mikhail sighed. I think you need to at least recognize Tyrell is not only an ancient, but a former master vampire.

As if that would matter to me?

The Prince hid his smile and watched as the twins brought Carissa to the surface. They quickly clothed to her and in unison whispered a command for her to wake. When her eyes fluttered open, she looked around in confusion, then widened her eyes when she saw the twins standing before her.

"I was so worried!" she exclaimed and flung her arms around both of them.

The twins embraced her, then each bent his head to give her a smoldering kiss, making it obvious of their need to be with her after being near death from the battle.

Tyrell remained still, but Mikhail noted he never diverted his eyes from them. His expression was a mask, as if closely guarding his reaction to their reunion with her. And when Carissa finally turned and saw him, the Prince was surprised when the former vampire fully bowed to her. She reacted by running over to him and hugging him so hard, Tyrell almost lost his balance.

As the twins frowned, Tyrell reluctantly allowed her to embrace him. But then he grew uncomfortable and firmly removed her arms, pushing her back to the twins. He spoke in a low voice. "You are never to do that again."

Carissa felt the twins hands pull her close to them. "I was only showing you my gratitude!"

His eyes grew dark. "Never forget what I am, my dear. Just because I have a feeling to protect you, does not mean you can trust me."

"But I know what you did! You saved my lifemates and the Prince."

Tyrell gave Carissa a tight smile. "It had nothing to do with any of them. I was only making sure they were providing you with protection. They still have much to learn, given their young age."

Samuel's eyes flashed in annoyance. "Excuse me? And just how many vampires attacked us? If I recall, you may have gone down yourself if the rest of the hunters hadn't arrived."

"It is more likely you were suffering delusions with the loss of blood at that point."

"Are you really that arrogant, or do you just like to show off to Carissa?"

Tyrell gave a low laugh. "What you call arrogance is simply a fact when it comes to my strength and abilities."

Samuel rolled his eyes and privately spoke to Pierce. If he says one more thing about his so-called great abilities, I'm going to throttle him.

Ignoring his twin, Pierce called upon his patience and studied Tyrell. "I believe you have an oath to swear before Carissa. Then you can be on your way and leave us in peace."

Carissa's face became confused. "What do you mean?"

Tyrell glided forward. "Give me your hand."

Samuel sharply yanked Carissa back even further. "Don't even think about touching her."

"If I am to do this, I need her hand. You fledglings were not even born so you do not understand this ancient ritual. I will slash my chest and she will place her hand on my blood while I say the words. It is the ultimate symbol of sacrifice for another. I will bleed for her and she must touch the proof of my blood."

"And just how do we know your blood isn't tainted?" snarled Samuel. "You were a damn vampire! There could be parasites!"

Tyrell sighed. "I did not say she would drink my blood. Besides, I have already examined myself and there are no parasites. It is highly unlikely she will become infected in any way."

"I will be the judge of that," said Gregori in a low voice. "If you insist on doing this, then I will examine your blood."

Mikhail grew tense, thinking Tyrell was going to snap back. But surprisingly, Tyrell simply shrugged. "So be it."

Gregori did not take any chances and thoroughly examined Tyrell. When he was finished, the healer was silent for a few moments. "You do not appear to be tainted with any sign of vampire blood."

Tyrell smirked. "Surprise, surprise."

"And yet you are not Carpathian."

The former vampire gave a low laugh. "Does such a thing unsettle you, Dark One? I think you are actually disappointed. When your time comes to hunt me down, perhaps you will think twice."

Carissa froze. "Hunt you down? I don't understand! What is going on?"

Before the twins could answer, Tyrell spoke first. "No need to worry, little one. The Dark One will just be, checking on me, so to speak. He just needs to make sure I am behaving." It was a lie, but it worked, as Carissa eased a little.

"So you're going after Morrison? You're going to try and find Sebastian?"

"And any others who may be involved. I will not hesitate to strike down anyone who gets in my way."

Gregori crossed his arms over his chest. "Which is exactly why you will swear not to commit any crimes against the innocent."

Tyrell extended his hand to Carissa. "Give me your hand."

Samuel wanted to protest but Pierce held him back. We must trust the SongMaker's judgement. And you have to admit what Mikhail says appears to be true. He is very loyal to her.

Carissa hesitantly gave him her hand and Tyrell whispered in her mind. I will never hurt you, Carissa. He unbuttoned his black, silk shirt which revealed a heavy set of muscles. He then extended his fingernail which looked more like a single claw and slashed his chest. She tried not to gasp as blood began to run down his skin and he firmly placed his her hand over the wound. He began to speak, but in some ancient language, she did not understand. She felt a curios sensation, as if his words were binding himself to a fate she wasn't sure she wanted to know.

Once finished, Tyrell healed himself waved a hand to remove the blood left on her skin. When she looked at her hand, she was surprised to see a round mark still left in the center of her palm.

It is a part of me left with you to seal my oath.

My lifemates won't be pleased…

Tyrell couldn't help but smile. Good.

You're awful to them. She began to laugh as the twins looked at her in confusion. But I also know you will protect them for me if ever needed.

They have extremely strong capabilities. Not many would have lasted as long as they did against so many vampires. But never tell them I said such a thing.

Carissa shook her head, still smiling. "I hope you find your lifemate," she said out loud.

The amusement in Tyrell's eyes vanished and his expression became downright scary. "That, my dear, will never happen. My satisfaction will be the revenge I take on those who attempted to control me."

"But you have to want more than just that! What if it were possible? What if you do encounter her?"

Tyrell actually backed away from her. "There is no lifemate for me."

"But-"

"Enough!" hissed Tyrell, his temper actually causing a crack of lightening to flash through the sky.

The twins took no chances and firmly placed Carissa behind them, while Gregori and Mikhail both took on defensive stances. Pierce raised his chin. "You are finished with your business here. Go seek your revenge and stay away from our lifemate."

For a moment, Tyrell's eyes appeared to soften, as if realizing he took out his temper on Carissa. Why did the thought of a lifemate make him so angry? Wouldn't it be logical for Carissa to want that for him? Why wouldn't he want it? For a moment, his head actually hurt, as if a pounding headache came out of nowhere.

Tyrell, Carissa whispered to him on their private link. I'm sorry. And thank you for saving my lifemates.

Her voice seemed to soothe him and it was then Tyrell realized he just may need to visit Carissa once in a while. For whatever reason, she cleared his mind and made him refocus on his task. Until we meet again, little one. He then transformed into mist and took off into the night sky.

Author's note: Okay...maybe just one more chapter.