Author's note: This is based on characters belonging to Steph Myers. I hold no right to them.
This does go against the cannon, but I thought of this before The Illustrated Guide came out.
1245 B.C. The Minthi Mountains, along the Anydro river, outskirts of Minthe village
I was pulling the wet soaked wool cloth from the river, wrenching it with my wet hands when I felt some soap bubbles coming playfully against my cheek. I let out a smile, and placed some soft white fluff in her mouth, covering her noise down to her chin.
"Oh, you," Lamiae giggled as she went and place the soap it in my hair. We both then went into a splashing frenzy as we started our own little soap war.
"Girls, is the laundry done, yet?" Persephone's voice rang from the river bank. She sat from above the marina in front of a loom. Hecate was loyally by her side sitting on a rock next to the loom with a large amount of wool between her legs, while holding a whorl to spin the wool into yarn with her fingers.
"Yes, we are working on it," Lamiae said as I helped her hang some wet chitons on a nearby branch, while we remain hidden in the shadows of large cypress trees while speaking quietly so the human travelers won't hear us. Persephone went to check on the dyes of the newly spun yarn when a loud female scream pierced through the air.
"What was that?" Hecate jumped.
"It sounded like Demeter." Persephone rolled her eyes, remembering the cry from when she woke up from her transformation. "I wonder what it is now."
It was then they heard another scream, calling for help, then it was cut silence. They all beamed from the meadow as the sun came on the diamond skin. It was then they heard a chorus of shouts and cries for help, their heads followed the commotion causing the coven to gaze at Mount Olympus.
"Girls, pack up, we are going to the cave." Persephone ordered in an immediate answer.
"What about the rest?" Hecate asked rushing.
"I'll get her, Hecate, take Lamiae and Sulpicia to the caves," Persephone said as she quickly rushed to help her daughters packed their clothes.
A Country Road
Empusa sat at the road side, with her brazen slippers, and her comfortable white dress that was so light, a human could easily see under it. She sat under a rock of a large olive tree with her booze skin gleaming in the sun; one would think her legs were crafted of the most valued bronze. Her bright orange red hair shimmered vibrantly like the flames of a fire. She sat along the road side, as her dark ruby eyes narrowed to a man riding by on a donkey. She looked behind her, seeing Caius and Marcus waiting anxiously for their meal. She lifted her long skirt to reveal her bright bronze leg, that shown when the man approached her. He of coursed stopped in his tracks, despite the donkey's rage to run from her, most likely knowing the fate of its master.
"Excuse me sir," Empusa started. "I need help, see I was traveling, and my husband was attacked and killed. Now I am all alone with no means of getting home."
"What do you need miss?" He stopped slurring in his words.
"I truly need to get back to my father's farm, so he may find me a new husband. Because, I need someone to full fill my needs, you never know, he may ask someone like…you…to provide me with my physical well being kind sir?"
Empusa said as she talked with her lips lowering, and clutching her hands to her waist, so the fabric around her breast would tighten. "First, you must help me with what is left. Do you mind coming back here, alone, to pick up what is left of my camp. My bed is just too heavy for a little thing like me to carry."
Empusa enjoyed being the one who fed her coven, it was much better than finding suitors for her madam during her human life. She took them in pairs, Hades and Persephone she said she was lost and couldn't find her way home. Sulpicia and Aro, she told them she was a prostitute. Lamiae and Hecate went out with her; she had the most fun hunting with them. Caius and Marcus were with her this week, they were fine with her saying she needed help. Empusa lead them back to the shades of the trees, to where there was no wagon. Empusa then smiled back towards the man, letting out a sigh. "Oh, look, my brothers have arrived."
It was then a pounding scream came through the paths.
"That sounded like one of the Olympians." Empusa shook as the two quickly killed the traveler.
"Come on, let's check it out," Marcus suggested as they followed the screams with Empusa in between them. They kept the hidden paths, Hades had picked for them so they could travel unseen by humans. They didn't know why they had to remain hidden from humans. They did understand that was just their coven's way, and they respected it. They came behind a rock, to find the Olympians gather, Aphrodite, surrounded by men in black suites.
"Who are they?" Empusa asked her older brothers. "Surely they are something far from us."
"They are the Dacia coven," Caius warned as they made her duck, in order to hide their sister's bright flamed hair.
"I don't know, I don't know, Zeus didn't create me. I joined on my own account." Aphrodite explained. "I'm originally from Laos. I was traveling when I passed through them. They were so nice, and offered me as a member then I accepted. "
"Then dismiss loyalty to them, tell us where they are?" One ordered. Aphrodite went silent, and then a tall muscular man in a black cloak came out, they watched from a distance as the two guards backed for the leader of them approached.
"What is going on here? The slut won't speak, perhaps I'll make her." They went silent, moving out of the way. That was the first time, they laid eyes on Dragomir.
They watched Aphrodite go down in a few short seconds, she twitched, and started shivering in pain. It seemed her body was becoming numb bit by bit, as the vampire let out a laugh out enjoyment over her pain. She was like a human being stoned to death. Except they could tell it was just in her head. The one causing it enjoyed every minute of her pain. Finally from her pain, she screamed: "I join on my own! Now, I am ready to leave! For the sake of mercy make it stop! They are on Mount Olympus!"
"Yes, we will make it stop." The man smiled as they pulled Aphrodite's head apart and proceeded with burning her body.
"She was my friend," Empusa cried watching the beautiful woman burn.
"Come on lets go," Caius gripped his sister as the turned quickly and ran, as Marcus held tight on Empusa's other side. They then found Apollo and Artemis behind them.
"What are you doing?" Caius sifted. "You are trying to get us killed."
"We understand our ways may have disrupted your ways," Artemis explained. "But we just need your help."
"What is it?" Empusa asked kindly.
"You are the creations of our creator's brother, so we have no choice." Marcus said with sympathy.
"How can you get out of Greece without being seen by humans?" Apollo asked. "It is really important that they don't point us out."
"We have marked paths, follow the red markers and you will find our way out," Marcus informed.
"Thank you," Artemis smiled towards them, they did make it out of Greece, Apollo lived a long life until he was killed by some humans in the sewers of London in the 1660s. He did create a vampire accidently before he was killed but Artemis was never able to find him. She was one of the Volturi witnesses.
Athens, Greece
"What on his mind?" Hades asked as the philosopher remained a sleep in his bed.
"He has several ideas; he is just not sure about most of them," Aro explained.
"Write them down," Hades handed him a clay tablet for Aro to follow. It was then they heard shattering screams from a far off distance.
"It sounded like Hera," Hades said as they looked up from Mount Olympus when the scream stopped as smoke rose.
"Is that?" Aro asked, as Hades put his shield up covering Aro and himself as they towards the top of the mountains. Through their advance vision they saw cloud of smoke rose from Mount Olympus, causing Hera's screams to end. It was shortly followed by lighting coming to the mountain top in as lighting struck from the clear blue sky followed by the sound of Zeus yelling in pain, then ending abruptly with more smoke. Aro and Hades looked down, and watched Poseidon running for his life, not even notice passing them.
"Those Dacia bustards," Hades spat out. "Come on son, let's go, we still have supplies to get for the coven."
The two went out to the city, trading in the early morning, below the shades of the Agora.
"What do we need to get?" Aro asked, as they remained behind the shield seeing the early dark hours of the morning approaching with just enough light to barely see the streets. They came out to Athens, still hidden form the woman and slaves getting the water from the wells early morning. The artisans opened their shops to the human smell of breakfast. It was then Hades took out the clay tablet Persephone gave him.
"Well, for one thing, you need sandals," Hades reminded pointing to Aro's feet. "We will stop in the sota today and I'll pay for the human sandal maker to mend you a new pair. Since we are here, we should pick up those earrings Lamiae had sent to the goldsmiths, and Persephone has asked me to pick up some cloth to make fresh curtains for the rooms." Hades explained. "I see you brought your hat to keep the shade on you. I also want to pick up a new scroll for you and your sibling's lessons. Empusa's aulos broke, so we have to get her a new one. I will give you the money, and you can pick up the goods on our errands. It is my duty as the head of the coven to provide."
"I guess, I can surprise Sulpicia with a filigree." Aro shook his head knowing he had no choice.
"That is the spirit," Hades patted him on the shoulder. "I guess we should stop and see if the pottery shop has opened yet. Hecate was complaining she doesn't have enough for the dye."
"I would take it as a sign." Aro followed along with the conversion of his creator as he bought some cloth from the women opening their stalls. Hades knew that they had more than enough cloths, he only bought from them knowing they were widow woman needed support for their families. This was the only way they knew how; they didn't appreciate how human men looked down on them for it. Hades then led Aro to the academy to swipe some new reading material and take notes on who Aro should read the next night.
They first went to the sota for Aro's sandals, and some paintings and other artwork to help decorate their dark cave. They then went to Dipyon gate, to look for some pottery; Hades always took his time there. They then went to the market, where Hades sent Aro to buy some tools, fabrics made by the widow woman, rugs, and leather along with other day-to-day needs of the coven. They went to the workshops to pick up the repaired jewelry, tools, and the Piraeus to get wood, linen, and amber for beading, tin, and lamp oil. The two couldn't help but notice the unusually large crowd in the city of Athens. It seemed everyone was gathering at the Panathenaic Ways in hymns to Athena. It was then they caught the scent of other vampires in Athens.
"Aro, come with me quick," Hades ordered as he put up his shield, and continued to fight the crowd from the festival. Hades led Aro at vampire speed to the high part of the city, to the Hephaisteion. It is called the Parthenon now. The two made it to the temple and went past the priestesses and worshipers, and snuck behind the abnormally large statue into the secret passages. These passages were meant only for the high priestesses. They commonly were Athena's blood supply. "We will remain unseen here," Hades informed him as they came to the empty ivory halls and he put down his shield.
"Except by one," a girl appeared with a hiss. Aro felt this strange feeling coming about him, he felt as if his skin became heavy as if it was made of stone. It was for a brief moment, Aro felt like stone. He felt his arms and legs froze with hard rock as his entire body became trapped, and his muscles went paralyzed and senses shut down. He was now defenseless against this young vampire. Athena only ever saved one of her devoted priestesses, Medusa. She started as a lowly priestess, but Athena sensed she had what would be a gifted immortal. She didn't want to change her so young, but Medusa ended up being a singer to Poseidon. One night, Athena snuck into the temple and changed her in front of her worshippers. The enter convent could hear Medusa's screams and saw her waking up ready to kill. Athena then kept Medusa on an island during her first decades due to her lack of control. She then announced to mortals on Medusa's gift hoping mortal men would seek her out and attempt to kill her. Athena got volunteers to have Medusa practice her gift and provide a blood source for the little monster. Then a human Athena challenged brought the girl's head as an 'offering'. This proved that Medusa had enough control and was ready to be put to use. So after Athena put Medusa back together she returned to the temple brining the heroes who 'conquered her' up to Mount Olympus to be 'rewarded'.
"Medusa, please release my son," Hades asked nicely as she gave a sleek smile, highlighting the missing teeth, pulling back her dreads wrapped in snake skin. The girl let out a shrilling laugh, entertained at Aro's frozen stone state. He stood there, unable to even move her eyes trapped him.
"I sort of enjoy it actually, watching him think that he can't move, we all know nothing is happening to him," She giggled as Hades tried to reason with the sadistic vampire who enjoyed the legends told about her.
"Uncle Hades," A voice came from the back, causing Medusa to quickly take her influence away from Aro. Athena came in followed by a large muscular man with thick red curls, watching the young raven hair immortal that was cornered with fear behind the statue erected in her honor.
"You're alive," She sighed relived.
"Yes, what is going on?" Hades asked her.
"I don't know. I wasn't there," Athena spoke guilty. "I was with him." Her eyes went to the male standing behind her in a protective manner. "Hades, I would like you to meet my mate, Thor."
"It is a pleasure to meet you," Thor tried to come out from behind the stature before Athena stopped him, and looked out. "They are not letting up are they?"
"No," Hades answered shaking his head.
"If she comes out it would be a instant clue to the Dacia to where we are hiding." Thor pointed out in fear, as he turned Athena towards her, their eyes locking in loving warmth. "My dear, you are no longer safe here, this coven is no longer with you. Come with me, and I will keep you and Medusa safe. My creator Odin, and his mate Jord will welcome you with open arms. Asgard is a beautiful place, filled with humans; you will be adored in the finest cloth. You will have what you need for immortality. That, I swear to you. All I ask is that you come with me."
"Medusa, come here," Athena ordered hiding behind her statue.
"Yes, my lady," Medusa said respectfully.
"First you will need to get out of here without being seen," Hades pointed out. "My shield can provide that."
"Yes, Hestia tried to escaped, but the humans recognized her and shouted chants to her. That was a red flag for them, the Dacia threw her in the hearth right in front of them," Thor said shocked. "I kept hidden, knowing Athena was going to come here and save Medusa."
"Is your stuff packed?" Aro asked with a sigh.
"We are not taking anything with us," Athena explained. "Medusa, stay between us," Athena grabbed her, as Thor came to her other side. Athena then smiled at Thor, she gave him a long passionate kiss. As Hades went back to Aro and they went to the tiny family. The three touched Hade's shoulders as he put up his shield causing them to disappear into the crowed.
Aro remained behind them, ensuring they didn't come out from behind the shield. Aro wasn't too worried about Medusa considering his dislike for the girl. The way she over used her powers to make people think they were stone, the way she controlled others with it just annoyed him. He didn't know how Athena could create and encourage such a little monster.
Night had approached Athens, men were walking through the streets drunk, while the ladies of the night came out to make their living. They were some dressed in fine gold, with music playing to offer themselves. There were others, in fine clothes just out on the street with a lack of skills and means of support. Then in the darker, filthier part of Athens there were simple brothel girls, wearing nothing but plan cloths put together waiting with their pimps. It was an even worse time for time Athena to show her face in public, considering the drunken humans would still call her out. They were passing one of the brothels, on their way to the city walls when one of the women came out to the streets greeting a wealthy client. This one, Aro recognized.
It was his sister, Didyme.
She was standing there, beautiful with her raven silk hair pulled back cluttered with jewelry and makeup along with drunken men adoring her like she was an object and not a person. Some were pulling on her dress, Aro could tell she didn't at all admire the way the gawked at her, but the pimp she was sold to made her keep her peace. Aro knew she feared him, and she wasn't living in a life of happiness at all. It made him beyond furious, he wanted to kill the man and take his sister out of that life.
"Alright, climb up the wall and leave Greece as quick as possible," Hades ordered when the tiny coven came to the wall instantly.
"Come, Aro," Hades touched his shoulder as they too left Athens. "If you ever create a vampire that is that admonish with her gift, like Medusa, I will rise from my ashes and hunt you down." Hades clinked as they came out from the country side making their way to the hidden caves.
~X~
It was very quiet; we kept occupied in the deep part of the cave being careful as Hecate held out a light until enough lanterns were lit to brighten the stone walls of the dark underground. We heard the sound of footsteps coming from a far off entrance. It meant one thing, our leader has returned. Persephone was the first to stop and rush out instantly as we all followed her to see Hades and Aro, returning from their day in town. Persephone came out first to embraced Hades. Followed by the order of our creations, Hecate, who they watched from her infancy created by Persephone to be their daughter. Then was Marcus, he was created by Hades in hopes of being a mate for Hecate. Afterwards was Lamiae, who they rescued one night then she was changed by Persephone as a mate for Marcus. After was Caius, who created on accident but welcomed to the coven just the same. Then there was me, created by Hades in an attempt to be a mate for Caius or Marcus. I came out with Empusa, who was sold to Persephone by her mother in order for her to have immortality. I went to my mate Aro, who was the youngest of the creations that I suggested in order to have a mate. I was overjoyed to see my Aro has returned and was safe from whatever dangers surrounding the Greek hills.
"We have some news," Hades stared unable to speak.
"Have you heard the screams?" Persephone asked fearfully.
"Yes, the Dacia had punished the Olympus coven for the worshiped," Hades announced. "We don't know if they are after us, but since our coven has caused no reason to be of threat to their powers. We should remain safe."
"We saw them attacking some nymphs on the way home," Caius pointed out glancing back at Empusa. "We kept her protected."
"We will stay here until it is clear," Hades ordered. "If they come around, I will show how our coven bears no danger or threat to their rule, that should be enough to leave us be."
I then watched Aro come home with his shoulders down; his eyes went towards the curtain that was our bedroom, informing me in our own way he had something important to tell me. I notice Hades and Persephone giving a gift to Hecate while Lamiae and Empusa were indulging in a bit of gossip, helping Caius and Marcus unloaded the packages. I went to attend to my husband, something was wrong, I could tell. I went with him and lied next to him, with my head on his chest as Aro's fingers came down to fit with mine perfectly. We then kissed, as his fingers stroked my hair.
"You always have good thoughts," he sighed gently.
"What is wrong, my husband?" I asked Aro.
"I saw my little sister today," Aro explained as I sat up, staring at him.
"Oh, she must be full grown by now. How is she doing now? Is she married, with children? Is she free?" I asked remembering the tiny girl from our courtship.
"She was at a brothel," Aro explained. "She is a prostitute. She was making others happy but I could tell she was unhappy. Now, I feel guilty for abandoning her."
"Perhaps you should change her," I suggested. "You never know, she could have a useful gift, like yours."
"She just might," Aro liked the idea as he kissed me on the cheeks.
~X~
We stayed hidden for days, unknowing if the Dracia left or if they were still roaming Greece, 'punishing' those who seemed to be a threat to their powers. It was with much fear, we could only go out for hunting, and even then Hades kept his shield up waiting for word. A week passed when we finally notice a strange smell.
"We have an intruder," Persephone realized clutching her husband's arm.
"Lamiae," Hades nodded as she projected herself upward, only for a short minute, while they waited. When her projection returned, she came to the leaders quickly.
"They are in the caves," She said, as they rushed themselves together, Aro held my hand tightly as Hades pulled us all into a corner. Persephone locked her right arm with Hades while her left arm stretched out covering Marcus and Hecate, with Caius, Empusa and Lamiae behind gathering behind them. Hades kept Aro and I on his other side, insuring his shield covered us. Hades's shield drew out, coming in front of us like a glass ball making us invisible as the men in black came to our sight with one straggling behind them. Hades still holding his shield glanced towards Marcus, Marcus the pointed to the tall one with wavy brown hair that was in the middle. He was the leader. Marcus also glanced towards the one that was tied up, between the larger ones hawking the short skinny vampire between them.
"They have a prisoner," Marcus pointed out as Hades nodded while the coven tightened with one another. That was the first time I met Dragomir. He came at the lead, anxious to show yet another coven the true gods. He walked in with two men his masters had assigned to serve under him, ready to collect strong talented vampires and destroy those who rejected their authority. He spoke with some humans, perhaps he could charge Hades with kidnapping. He observed the rooms, it was clear that it was well lived in, with the lights and the caverns set up to look like rooms but besides that it was empty. He couldn't even find a trace of vampires anywhere near them.
"You said they were right here," one of them yelled towards their hostage, pulling him forward. They narrowed in, recognizing their friend Herms, a tracker to the Olympus coven that visited them frequently due to the enjoyment of their company.
"I swear, this is where they stay. I should know, I visit them all the time," Herms spoke at a fast rate, slurring the words as he was at their mercy. "They keep to themselves, only one temple, and they ignore the worshippers. I swear my tracking sense never does me wrong. They are here somewhere."
"You are lying," Dragomir hissed to Hermes. "Bring the tracker forward."
The guard held the hostage they kept from their last slaughter and slung him forward his body hitting the stone pavement. "Now, tell me where is this coven?" Dragomir hissed as he backed up.
"Somewhere here," Hermes answered. "This is where I tracked them."
"Don't lie now," Dragomir glanced gleefully at the opportunity to use his extra ability. "Let us show what happens to liars."
It was then, Herms felt as if a thousand stones were hitting him at one time, the same Dragomir felt the last few hours of his human lives when his camp tried to stone him. They watched as Herms scrunched in panic acting as if this force was hitting his muscles one at a time when in fact there were no stones, it was in his head but he felt it. He used his ability as the pain rose, making Herms let out screams of touchier, and squealing at such a high pitch it still causes a shrill to come up my spine. The cave coven watched in horror as Hermes was being placed under a wicked spell, backing into a corner blocking him from nothing. It was clear whatever Dragomir placed him under, caused him to be at a state of pure panic.
"He must be sick to enjoy this," Aro whispered as I nodded in agreement. Persephone glanced towards Hades; she nodded as he let out a sigh putting his shield down revealing his family.
Dragomir turned, to see the coven revel itself, he was surprised how young Hades appeared, had to be at least in his thirties, the human's description of him was very off he was only a couple years older than him. He looked towards the coven, he couldn't tell the relation towards his mate and the chick he interrogated last night to find the information of their existence was false. He wondered if should use his power on first just to see the reaction, but Hades muscles, along with the strength of his three sons told him that may not be the best idea. He wondered which of the three men was Aro. The ones that they were suppose to bring back to his coven. He spotted what might be another good add to them. Besides the three female nobodies, he noticed one, she had long black hair that went to her waist in a braid standing next to the fire head. He would take her in a human heartbeat.
"So you're the coven that remains hidden, the one who believe it is better for us to keep our kind a secret instead of being adored by humans?" Dragomir asked studying them.
"We believe that helps us live a safer, more peaceful life," Persephone answered. "It is a personal choice."
"Well, you certainly make yourselves hard to find, considering the lack of monuments, humans don't even know what you look like it. They aren't even aware of the existence towards some of your members," Dragomir said shaking his head towards the coven. It was such a shame they kept a woman that beautiful in the dark caves. Someone with that face deserved a temple of her own. Dragomir thought instantly there was no reason an immortal with such flowing features should be worshiped to the ground by both gods and mortals.
"We are simple people," Hades explained. "We prefer to live without the adoration. It makes our lives easier and does benefit the immortal world in general."
"I see," Dragomir turned towards Hades. He wanted to impress the beautiful one, so he used his powers again. Hermes wailed with pain, sounding more and more like a sissy human girl.
"Please, stop, he showed you what you wanted," Persephone begged.
"Fine," Dragomir gave the noticeable one a wink. "Brothers, let's show Herms some mercy, and give him some peace." It was then they came towards Herms, lifting him like a rag doll as he scrambled to get away, but he was too weak from Dragomir's torture. They ripped him apart and started the fire.
"Hermes is no longer in pain," Dragomir smiled as they gave him disgusted looks.
"Now, as we were visiting your brothers earlier, before their ….untimely death. Zeus mentioned the vampire who can read every thought with one touch happens to be here. Which one of your creations has that honor? I am sure my masters have a use for him. "
"Perhaps, he said it in the midst of his pain," Hades suggested as he stopped Persephone's protective arms spreading over Aro and Sulpicia placing them behind her. She kept glancing towards Lamiae, fearful of the looks he gave her daughter.
"Well, that can't be true; you see we tortured Hera, not him." Dragomir explained with a casual sigh, like he was proud of it. "The stories of her wreath caused humans to fear her greatly. We had Zeus captured, while I…made myself at home. While she was screaming he mentioned your coven. He wanted Aro, but one of your daughters stole him. He suggested we go to you. I thanked him, and then we put his wife out her misery. He tried to attack and we ended up having to kill him out of self defense."
"So it is time to do the same?" One of them asked, as Dragomir debated then shook his head with a laugh. "No, this coven is obviously no threat to us. They live in caves, and made it clear they have no strive for power. I must ask about that one, you there." He glanced towards his servants as they went to the coven that remained crowded together. "I must say you have some beautiful daughters, I want to take one back with me. Brothers, bring the beautiful one down." The men went to Empusa.
"No, the one next to her, you idiots," Dragomir hissed as he nodded gleefully when they passed Lamiae. She knew instantly from the way he smiled, Dragomir wanted her. She stepped away from his mindless servants and from her coven. In a quick instant Dragomir saw her next to him at the same time on the other side where she stood. He tried to capture the beautiful creature ready to claim her for himself. She quickly went to the other side. Then the next side, he tried to grab her but his hand went right through her. Finally Dragomir caught on, so this was a gift of hers and she was playing a game with him. Lamiae went next to Dragomir, hoping to tap on his shoulder as she was projected right in front of him. He turned and quickly grabbed her by the wriest turned her around and put his arm tightly around her waist. She felt herself trapped in his arms, as she tried to break herself free. He just pulled her against him forcing her to feel his lips against her neck. The human memories of her first marriage came back to haunt her.
"You could be with me," Dragomir spoke softly as she tried to escape while she felt his chest come against her. "Why don't you tell me your name?"
"Lamiae, I am not the one you are looking for," She cried trying to escape from him as he pressed his arms around her tighter.
"Lamiae," Dragomir whispered as he breathed against her hair. "Never one would be more beautiful, why don't you leave this coven come away with me. I will provide all your needs." He then kissed her neck, not letting her go. She struggled with fear, letting out cries for help to her brothers.
"Get away from her," Caius yelled. "She wants nothing to do with you, can't you see that."
"Oh, she wants me, we can be mates." He hissed towards her. "Come with me, and leave this coven behind…alive. I can make you happy." Dragomir then felt two arms come behind him and another pair around his head. Lamiae brook free rushing behind Hades being embraced by as Persephone and her daughters, finding comfort in her sisters. Dragomir then realized he was helpless as Hades's three sons had him trapped.
"My daughter is not forced to do anything she does not want to do, she won't love by force, and you don't dare love her against her will. Perhaps, I should give your coven a warning and let the vampire world free your torture." Hades said as he glanced towards the fire with Hermes's remains still burning and lit a torch. "Why is he here?" He gave a nodded to Aro as he let go of his and Caius held a palm for Aro while Marcus twisted his other arm. Aro touched his hand, giving a nod. Dragomir was instantly deemed untrustworthy.
"Perhaps we should give your masters a warning for what happens when they send justice for the immortals of Greece who done nothing injustice in the first place," Hades spoke harshly.
"Please choose your words wisely," one of the solders spoke. "Remember our power."
"This is madness, we only come to warn you," Dragomir spoke instantly. "The other we came to punish, your coven Hades, we came to warn." Aro stood behind Dragomir shaking his hand.
"Do not mistake me as a fool!" Hades shouted towards the Dracia as they backed in fear. "You kill our brother coven, and boast about it. You bring my nephew to my caves as a prisoner, then touchier and slaughter him in front of my coven. You degrade my daughter and treat her as if she was a possession. You threaten to take my valued creation for your own." Hades came closer with his torch. "It is clear, you came to give death to immortals, and that is exactly what you will find."
"Hades," Lamiae interrupted. "Perhaps it is not wise to kill him…yet."
"Why is that?" Persephone asked.
"So the Darica know we are of no threat," Lamiae spoke softly. "We just have strength, but we should show them we only use our strength when there is a reason."
"Fine," Hades nodded towards her. "It appears the daughter you have insulted thinks mercy should be granted. I wonder what makes you think that you deserve her. Go."
"But, Hades-" Caius started.
"As the leader of this coven, I have spoken," Hades said solemnly. "You may go, and tell your masters our message."
It was then, Aro, Marcus and Caius released them.
"We will be back," Dragomir warned. "I am sure they will be interested in Aro, if you change your mind by then." He winked towards Lamiae.
"Do not make this worse, boy," Hades shouted. "Why would she go for someone who wishes to harm her? Get out of my sight, and tell your leaders that we will not bow to though who do our kind harm," It was then Aro, Marcus and Caius came after them with torches as Dragomir and his two guards left quickly.
"Are they after you?" Persephone asked Aro instantly when they left.
"Yes," Aro answered.
"We can't let them take you, they will be back for you and Sulpicia," Hades said fearfully when they were out of sight. "We are going to have to hide you somewhere, a place they would never suspect."
"We will have to leave to find that place," Persephone informed instantly as she began to pack.
"Yes, will," Hades agreed and looked towards his coven; it was truly a coven worth protecting. "We will be gone for awhile, Hecate, you are in charge."
"No one is to leave until our return," Persephone gave her last order as she left with Hades.
One Week Later
"They haven't return yet," Aro said as I came in the room to find him staring at the cavern sunroof.
"They will be by soon," I insured him. "You are still thinking about her aren't you?"
"It's such a dishonor, that's all," Aro sighed turning back to me. "I am thinking about changing her."
"If we are going to, you should do it now," I suggested to him. "While they aren't around to ask their permission, they are honorable people, they will have no choice but to take her in."
"You are right," Aro stood up and started going through the corridors I followed him as we went down the cave wall to the main room where Hecate stood keeping watch at the entrance.
"Where are you going?" Hecate asked concerned coming towards us as we made our way through the tunnels.
"Out," Aro answered instantly, knowing she would be against this.
"They told us you are not allowed to leave until they returned," Hecate screeched following them.
"I will explain when I get back," Aro hissed at her instantly.
"Where ever you are going it can't be that important to disobey orders," Marcus heard coming from his cavern.
"Marcus, my sister is being held at brothel against her will, I can't let that continue." Aro spoke instantly. "You can read relationships, I expect you to understand."
"Oh, come on, Aro, is your safety really worth saving some human whore. You're a vampire now, let her go," Marcus spoke harshly as Aro turned to attack him. "Don't speak a harsh word against my sister."
"Aro," I calmed coming between the two of them. "He's your brother."
"Fine," Aro backed down. "I will be back." We turned to see Hecate blocking the entrance. "Hades and Persephone put me in charge, I can't let them down."
"They will understand," I explained to her. "Now, Hecate, let us go."
"No, Aro, you are not above my authority," Hecate said with a concerned expression while she lit the way back to where we were supposed to be. "Besides, it's a full moon, what if you run into a werewolf."
"We will survive," Aro assured pushing Hecate out of the way ignoring her authority. I followed Aro faithfully as Hecate tried to follow showing her light along the path until we disappeared letting the lights of Athens guide us instead.
We came to the dark corridors of the city, jumping the roof tops of the poorer parts of the streets, passing gangs, and beggars until he lead me down to the gutter hiding behind a rundown building with a red latten in front of it. This was a rather different brothel; it was closer to the higher, richer part of the cities where the citizens went when they were tired of their wives. These were the women who were sent to drinking parties, and in some cases bought to become privet mistresses. Yet, it was still a brothel, and Didyme still worked there against her will. We remained across from it when Aro stopped me. "What are we waiting for?" I asked.
"Do you remember the smell of her blood?" Aro asked.
"Yes, of course," I answered.
"Do you smell it?" Aro asked.
"No," I shook my head, she wasn't there, out with a client we later realized. I waited for hours until I was able to pick it up again.
"Wait, now I do," He glanced back as her sweet scent came up the street. Then a woman with long raven locks came up with a loosely fit white gown came up with her hair down waving freely, and her face covered in white lead makeup. The pimp came out instantly in a smile showing his dark teeth, he was another slave that ran the brothel for his master's profit.
"That's her," Aro's eyes gleamed as the pimp came down and she handed him the money. He was an older man, with a buck tooth and was very overweight. He smiled when he saw Didyme, kissing her on the neck and the lips, touching her breast. Then he bragged how she seemed to be the most popular among his girls. He then counted the money, stopped wide eyed in fury towards her. Didyme quickly explained how she stopped for food. He smacked her, knocking Didyme to the ground shouting how he is the only one who decides when and how she eats. I held Aro back, as he ordered her to her room and waited for a customer that followed her. That was when Aro and I decided to come out.
"Excuse me, sir?" Aro went to the man as I remained hidden. "I came for one of your girls?"
"Any specific?" He asked.
"Didyme," Aro answered.
"Didyme?" The man laughed. "She is booked for tonight, for the next couple of weeks. She has this incredible way of making people happy. My master has tripled the price than normal girls for her. The night of her debuted she was auction for the highest seen in Athens. You sir, don't look to be that wealthy, perhaps Charmion, or Eirene, or Zosmine might satisfy towards your price." Aro glanced back at me. I nodded and snuck in. It was a low poorly lit place with tacky color curtains covering the doors. The halls were filled with men coming in and out of lighten rooms, some drunk, others completely aware what they were doing. I passed a couple, woman were standing, some just waiting on their bed, some seemed to not have bathed in years. I was surprised by the men who came out, some of them were the greatest philosophers and scientist of all time. Some were slaves who stole money, or were given this as a reward. Each man I passed followed me wondering which room I would enter until I located Didyme. I waited for her client to leave and told the one waiting I was the cleaning woman. Then I came in.
"You are lucky to choose me, I'm good." Didyme then turned seductively and stopped at the sight of me.
"You," She spoke with anger. "I remember you, you are the one who took Aro away."
"Let me explained," I said to her instantly.
"Do you have any idea what happened to me since he left, since you stole him!" She shouted towards me. "Do you?"
"Didyme, I didn't-" I stuttered as she glared at me with hatred in her eyes.
"I was useless to the master after he left, he sold me to this awful family. I had to wait on spoiled brats, being the only one to calm them," She screeched. "Then they got fed up with me, and sold me here, I had to do the most degrading jobs until I agreed to follow this profession. The man who won the bid the night of my debut was disgusting, but paid a crazy amount for me. I lost my dignity thanks to you," She hissed. "I should call my pimp now and have his men taken you out." It was then the door opened, she was silent at seeing Aro.
"Didyme, hush. We came back to save you," Aro said as he came from behind me speeding right to her side, in an instant Didyme let out a shout as Aro pulled his teeth from her. She went to the door instantly in a tantrum, it was clear the pain had started. a man come in the room shocked at the sight. I instantly killed him as Aro grabbed his sister and we broke through the wall of the windowless room jumping out. It was then to our surprise, Persphone and Hades were there in the ally waiting for us. They have come back from their journey and picked up our scent here.
"They explained what happened," Hades said as he blocked his shield from the crowded street. While Aro still held onto Didyme.
"So, precious," Presphone sighed clearing Didyme's hair while Aro held her.
"We found a place for you, hidden from the Dracia," Hades spoke as Persephone grabbed Didyme from Aro. "It is a commune founded among the Apennine. It is a village called Velathri. It is a fine village with lots of humans, the area is growing, and the people are manly herds man but they but they do a lot trading with the Minoans and Mycenaean so it will most likely grow with Greek colonies, which might lead to land disputes, so your supply will be easy. You will stay there only temporary until the Dracia clear us."
We both nodded.
"What about Didyme?" I asked.
"You will stay for her three days, then explain to her what she is, but you are not ready for a newborn, Aro, let her stay with us then I will take her to you," Hades promised. "Now, come, you must pack, pack light. You won't stay there long I promise." It was then, when Aro and I held each other's hands we left Athens.
Athens, 2007
"And now we are back here," Sulpicia finished the story as Jane listen with intensity.
"That is a rather interesting story," Jane spoke as Sulpicia nodded with agreement. "You two never went back to the caves, did you?"
"No, we didn't," Sulpicia answered. "That was the last time we lived in the caves, it was a lonely existence at first, but we adjusted. We had visitors; Didyme did not come to live with us after her newborn mark. She was already in love with Marcus. We enjoyed their visits the most." Sulpicia sighed, as she looked towards the side drinking the blood concoction Charamaos gave her. "I want to thank you, Jane," Sulpicia spoke as she moved some hair strands form her cheek.
"For what?" Jane asked.
"For coming with me to Mount Taygetus, when we were visiting Peloponnese. Coming with me to the sight, where they found the infant skulls in Laconia. That's where my city used to be. I needed your company when I went to lay a pink and blue carnation for my lost child." Sulpicia put her arm around Jane, a mother truly never forgets her child. Even after thousands of years, she felt compelled to do something in memory for that tiny life that came out of her flesh, the life that was never given a chance.
"I guess you're right," Jane sighed.
"I think that's why you and Alec mean so much to me, I didn't know if it was a son or daughter, so having you, Alec and Felix of course, has brought me comfort," Sulpicia explained as Jane smiled back at her, liking the sound of that. "It was a shame, Aro couldn't have gone to see his sister, and stopped the killer. But, some good did come out of the night. Felix is now with us. Now, isn't someone waiting for you?" Sulpicia explained thinking of the carefree vampire that seemed to capture Jane's heart.
Jane smiled towards her, "I guess he is." She then stood up, wearing a short red dress, with a scarf and a purse.
"How about I do your hair?" Sulpicia asked. Despite, Jane's hair being cut short, Sulpicia still liked to help Jane style it. She never thought she would be helping her get ready for this occasion, her daughter, despite her young age has found someone who loves her. She had found someone who was good, someone who treated Jane the way a mate was suppose to treat the girl he loved. Sulpicia truly trusted Gisbert to be part of Jane's future. The way he looked at her daughter lit him up. She felt there was no reason to worry about him.
"Now, turn," Sulpicia ordered as Jane twirled her dress. Jane obeyed knowing Sulpicia's only attention was on what was best for her. She wanted to tell her that she will never lose Jane. Gisbert was Jane's future; she found exactly what she needed in him. He had completed her in every way, and inspired her to be a better person. Yet, her loyalty to Sulpicia and Aro will always be there, she knew they wanted the best for her. Gisbert was the best. He treated her in a way that she needed to be treated. He showed true respect to her, made her feel like she was the queen in the highest court. The door knocked, Jane excitedly went to answer.
"Gisbert," Jane's face lit up at his sight as he came in with two bouquets of flowers.
"You look lovelier than usual," Gisbert smiled slyly. "These are for you," he then turned to Sulpicia. "And the other is for you."
"Well, thank you Gisbert." Sulpicia said charmed taking the two flowers. "I will put them both in water." Sulpicia knew he would make a fine guard member. He was so polite. "Let me take your picture before you leave." Sulpicia went to get the camera. She watched the two young loves put their arms around each other, in all of the centuries Jane has been around. This was indeed, the happiest Sulpicia has ever seen her. It seemed everything in and around her had glowed in Gisbert's presence. They were obvious meant for one another, Jane was different around Gisbert, she showed an adorable side Sulpicia never seen before.
Jane turned back, looking back at Gisbert. If she had only one thing in the world, she would wish that Gisbert could see himself around her. She liked how his body relaxed with his arms around her. It was something exciting to her, she knew he loved her. The entire surrounding him with her presence reflected his love for her, making her want to be with no one else in the world. They were meant for each other.
"Hello," Philomela entered along with Hector holding hands, Mela smiled towards Jane as the four posed for a picture. Philomela was truly a good friend to Jane. She was the kind of friend that would make sure they were happy. She was the kind of friend that showed Jane how to be a friend. She showed her how to make others laugh, and was there for Jane when she felt uncomfortable. She put Jane's feelings into the equation, and didn't let others effect her relations with Jane. They were true friends.
"You look lovely, Philomela," Sulpicia glanced towards her niece.
"Thank you, Auntie," Philomela smiled gratefully as Hector nodded in agreement. She truly admired him for what she did to his sister, Monroe.
"You, too, Hector." Sulpicia nodded as he politely nodded back. He was a very well mannered boy, raised well. This was a new territory for vampires. It must have been with the rise of animal drinkers in the immortal world. Sulpicia had a feeling with more and more covens learning to live without human blood may cause more human children to be from Hector's background. She heard the Arab sisters raised a girl from Afghanistan, but she went off and got married after she reached maturity. Nivriti, a member of Matthais's friends in India along with her black panther shape shifting mate also raised a boy, who went off to the mortal world when he became an adult. Malakia once mentioned how she kept three children with her for a couple of months until she found respectable human parents. The Hale's also mentioned that their recently found sister and her husband are adopting two children.
"Ready?" Gisbert asked as soon as the pictures were taken.
"Yes, were we going?" Jane asked excitedly.
"To a fair, I am going to try and win you something," Gisbert answered as he went to open the door for her. They left leaving Sulpicia alone. She looked at the window, of the old ancient city, how much of it has changed. This was strange, last time she was in the city, she would have never thought out of all her sisters she would be the one without a mate to do something with, and be the invites of her sisters and their mates. They certainty made her feel like the third wheel without even knowing it.
Hecate came up to her, informing her Matthias is planning on taking her out, but won't say where he was taking her because it was a surprise. She wanted to know if Sulpicia could come along. Sulpicia of course, denied the invitation.
Dragomir and Lamiae stopped by after taking Sophia out shopping for the trip to America. They said after packing their trip for the States they planned to go to the library and find stuff to do in the area they are visiting, they wanted to know if she wanted to join along with them. Then they planned to go to the art festival, followed by dancing. Sulpicia thought it sounded too much fun and denied the conversion. Simantio and Empusa also came by, saying they planned to go swimming while Agatha was out with Sophia. Monroe and Charamalos also stopped, saying they were going to the country side of Athens, where they planned to explore the fields. They also wanted to know if she wanted come along. Sulpicia of course said no, and wished them a good time.
Sulpicia read a romance novel for a few minutes, excepting it was the only passion she would most likely receive that night. When a knock came on the door as Sulpicia sensed a harsh odor. She opened it to find Aysun standing there in a gleaming bright blue dress that went a little bit past her waist. It was off the shoulder, showing a little cleavage and her dark werewolf shoulders along with a long necklace that went to her wait with her hair down and wild with a simple blue clip holding her hair back, along with a pair of light blue heels.
"Hey," She came in politely. "Do you mind taking a picture of Nikki and I, we are going clubbing."
"Sure," Sulpicia came out to the hall, to find Nikki in suite with a Baldwin hat, he looked sort of like he belonged to a mafia, but Sulpicia kept that commit to herself as the maid came up and smiled to him. Then whispered a commit about never thinking something made in the USA would be so appealing. That was one thing Sulpicia noticed, despite their species, the Hale brothers seem to attract to many human woman because of the handsomeness. Aysun giggled at that complement and went up to her husband as he kissed her on the head, before heading into their room.
Sulpicia observed their luggage perfectly packed with some gifts for the Hale brother's recently discovered sister, and her husband in America. Along with some for the couple's coven that was hosting them. She also noticed a basket of pink stuff animals, and some English children's books address to a girl name Neveah. Sulpicia could tell the Hales were thrilled to visit America. Sulpicia also notices as excited as the boys were about returning to their homeland, they had Greek passports sitting out on the side table with the name Hale-Ypokosmos. Hale for their family, Ypokosmos for their coven. They were Greek citizens, and would remain loyal to the Greek coven.
"Oh, do you mind taking it out on the balcony?" Nikki asked as Sulpicia nodded as he led his wife to the tall balcony overlooking the Athenian city line, including the parathion in the far off distance. Sulpicia snapped their picture.
"Thank you," Aysun took the camera back.
"You're welcome, are the two of you set for your trip to America?" Sulpicia asked them.
"Oh, yes we are," Aysun responded. "I can't wait to try that…what's that thing you want me to eat?"
"Corn dog," Nikki answered. "Emmett plans to take us to a baseball game, and that's what I am getting you while we are there."
"Well, go Yankees," Aysun responded to that followed by kissing her husband on the mouth, reminding Sulpicia why they had their own cottage.
"Well, have a nice time," Sulpicia sighed offering her best wishes.
"Thank you, again," Aysun said looking at the camera as Sulpicia left. She first went to pack, smiling at the pictures of their trip, visiting the town of Sparti. As well as giving the Hales and the girls a personal tour of the underground caves, Mount Olympus, and the Temple Delphi. Going to see 'Beauty and The Beast Broadway Show' with Jane, her sisters, and their daughters along with the Hale twins as well. In general, she loved the time she spent with Jane and having her daughter find a connection with her sisters and their daughters.
It had done some good for Jane, Sulpicia thought to herself packing the bright colored clothes, and hundreds of pairs of flip-flops and heals. Jane had certainly formed bonds of friendship and found some light hearted girlfriend memoires form them. She had changed for the better, she smiled more, laughed more, and truly felt the true experience that life. She packed her clothes, thought of calling Alec wondering if her instincts where right, or if it was just over worrying. He seemed so different on the phone, a lifeless tone was in his voice, and he sounded almost tired, worse than Marcus. Sulpicia sighed, and went for a walk just to see the old streets. She didn't care if she was alone.
Sulpicia walked the old streets with new buildings. She thought of Aro, she missed him very much, that was a fact. Life was hard without him, but at the same time it was hard with him. She couldn't trust Aro, Sulpicia admitted to herself she can't trust Aro. She had a hard time believing what he said, because she never knew if Aro was telling her the truth with all the lies over the centuries. Lying was just too casual for him. Yet, now I was to the point where Sulpicia couldn't even stand looking at his picture. Sulpicia came back to the hotel, and went to the room when a tap came on her shoulder. She turned instantly and her jaw dropped shocked. Aro was standing there, right behind her.
"Aro," Sulpicia gasped stunned at him standing there, away from his kingdom and his throne, everything, coming all the way to see her. He came up admittedly and kissed her, as Sulpicia felt the same familiar flame light up her body. She kissed him back feeling the same with that old familiar passion.
It was just the two of them; Sulpicia smiled taking him into their room. It was a surprise to her, her husband had took time to make an effort for her happiness for once and she wasn't going to waist this moment. She was going to hold him, and observe every minute of this moment. She missed him too much not to be with him, and this was a rare occasion that he was the one trying to romance her. It had been centuries since he was the one who want the extra length to contribute to their marriage. She observed the comforting taste of his venom form in his mouth as her hands went softly against his hard cold skin that was like home to her. This was something unexpected.
Aro wrapped his arms around her, bringing her close to his body. He loved her, and she was all he ever wanted. He picked her up, wanting to never let go of her. How could he ignore such that beautiful face that was the very base of him. He was,glad that there was no one but the two of them. This approach however was something unexpected, distressed had finally found relief.
They belonged together, Sulpicia was the only one he ever wanted, and even after two thousand years they still belong to one another. They were still depended on each other. Sulpicia and Aro were still in love after thousands of years, and knew immortality was impossible to function without the other.
~X~
"You put me through hell," Aro finally spoke afterwards, still next to her. He seemed offended in his tone.
"Oh," Sulpicia stared back, wondering if he knew what she was suffering. "And you don't think you have?"
"You have the most confusing mind, Sulpicia," Aro shook his head. "I swear as much as I love touching you, and don't doubt that, I would rather touch you then anybody else despite the headache it can cause me sometimes."
"In what way?" Sulpicia asked.
"When I read your thoughts, I also get very lost. You are the only vampire who I most likely have to ask to explain some of your reasoning, because even reading your past thoughts confuse me. One in particular hurt me, I've seen you every day for nearly three thousand years, and you dare think that I wouldn't notice if you're gone."
"Well, do you blame me for wondering?" Sulpicia reacted. "How many days have gone by were we hardly glanced at each other."
"Well, I've been…." Aro dozed off. "I'm sorry, alright, I will admit it, I forgot how important you are in my life. That was odd, considering the reaction when I first saw you."
"Being speechless, asking if I was a nymph?" Sulpicia blinked as Aro smiled back and kissed her palm.
"Things will be different, after these last couple months, I don't want to do that again, you are coming back with me Sulpicia. We are meant to be together, I need you. It was like a drought for me, humans are annoyed with the rain until its gone. It was like that for me. I took advantage, thinking you were going to be there so I didn't have to worry about it," Aro admitted. "I am willing to work with you more, and try harder."
"I need you too," Sulpicia admitted. "We have lived such a long life, and saw so much. There is still more I want to see Aro, more I want to do, but one can't do it alone. I can't live in lies though, Aro. I can't live without trust, I need to trust you, Aro. You need to show me, that I can trust you. What makes you think that you have to lie to me? I won't ever stop loving you, you can tell me anything and I will still be here. It hurts that you don't see that."
"I see that," Aro said quickly.
"Then why do you find it necessary to lie to me?" Sulpicia asked. "What have you done to think that you are unworthy of my trust?"
Aro was silent for a long moment. "What can I do for you to come back?"
"Make this marriage work, make it a priority for you," Sulpicia answered staring straight in his eyes. "Most important, no more lies, you can trust me. You have no reason to lie to me."
"I promise. No lies." Aro nodded. "Why did it take you this long to say this? You're a Spartan woman, you grew up learning to be vocal…don't let me brush you off, you don't deserve that and I don't deserve living in decent thinking you are happy when you're not."
"I promise," Sulpicia then kissed him again. She then got up suddenly. "You know what, let's do something, we are in Athens after all."
"Sure," Aro agreed. "I don't mind walking down these old streets with you."
"Maybe a crazy butcher will try to chase us again," Sulpicia joked as they got up, and got dressed quickly to just walk through the old streets of Athens, looking forward to enjoying each other's company. Something they had not done for such a long time. They were both surprised how reliving it was for them, walking with each other, enjoying each other, begin with each other.
"What is that smell," Aro said as they came into the hallway, as a stench rose it was as if rotten meat was being mixed with sweet flowers."Is one of them here?"
"Yes, it must be Alexander," Sulpicia pin pointed considering the scent of a vampire was with the odor. "He's the one who did the finances for the modernization of the island."
"Oh, that can't be." Aro went straight to the room and walked in without knocking to see Alexander and Bezya jump instantly, with both of them barefoot. Alexander sat up shirtless, quickly putting on his pants while at the same time using his large muscular body to block Beyza as she quickly put on Alexander's shirt, along with a pair of jeans she got out of a suitcase. Sulpicia looked over and saw the short yellow silk evening gown off to the side. They must have returned from the soccer game early.
"May we help you," Alexander asked not surprised to see Aro barging in, as Beyza came by her husband holding his hand with her hair in disarray while staring at Aro showing her frustration for such lack of respect.
"You, boy," Aro demanded. "You're the one who arranged the finances for this project."
"Yes," Alexander answered. "I have been handling the finances for my coven for the last sixty-four years."
"He has made them very wealthy," Beyza interrupted. "They have not only become finically independent from you, but prosperous as well. He has made wise investments, and not once did we have to take out a loan. He does their taxes, each time with a return, and he has also given loans to other animal drinking covens willing to settle. Each time they returned with interest paid. We have never been in debt or bankrupt, but we are able to afford many luxuries and give to many humans in need."
"You are aware the Volturi have contributed a portion to this project," Aro snapped.
"That is why we are leaving tomorrow," Beyza informed.
"I have calculated the cost, and gave Fred a fair budget using your contribution," Alexander explained. "I went through the prices he gave me, and communicated with him on the funding. I worked your donations into it, along with the money I had aside in another account for whenever Hecate decided to modernize."
"You created the budget for this project; they let you be the one who settled the finances." Aro question rising an eyebrow. "Then I definitely want to check it through." He said as if he was almost laughing at the idea that his sisters would let such a creature do an important task.
"It is right here," Alexander sighed pulling out an envelope that had 'Fred Harof' written on it.
"Aro, come on, let's go," Sulpicia spoke embarrassed.
"Don't worry, he cares for the Greek coven very much," Alexander recited, it seemed he was use to this happening. "He just wants to make sure everything is right."
"And we don't know what mistakes it would make," Aro joked as he went through the papers four or five times.
"I don't do any of the paper work during the days before a full moon," Alexander explained. "Do to my mind setting not being in the right frame for work."
"He uses the skills he had learned well from his father," Beyza brought up. "He had to take over and do his father's banking works in his youth do to father's mental condition. His family suffered greatly because of the acts of a man who thought he was above them and had the right to take advantage, causing them pain. It caused him to grow up early, and learn the banking work to take over when his father was unable to."
"It actually did well," Aro smiled surprised ignoring that comment. "Good job, boy. Come on, Sulpicia, let's go I suppose I earn my sisters a visit." Aro rushed her. "It was nice meeting you…."
"Beyza," Sulpicia answered as Beyza shook her hand and they left without saying another word to them.
"I need to wash my hands considering what she has touched," Aro whispered as he and Sulipica went down to the lobby.
"Come on, let's go," Sulpicia then lead him into the down stairs lobby Hecate came racing up to them followed by Mathias who just smiled politely behind his wife.
"Oh, Aro, so good to see you again, little brother," She smiled as they embraced. "I would like you to meet my husband, Mathias." She introduced them.
"So, you are the one that caused them to move away from their natural instincts," Aro asked casually.
"Of drinking blood," Matthias asked. "That is what we do; there are no instincts to tell us what kind."
"You are someone special," Aro shook his hand and went passed them.
"Aro," Empusa chimed to him walking catlike to him. "You came back for her, how romantic."
"It's nice to see you here," Simanito went to shake his hand.
"Agatha, look whose here," Empusa called as her and Sophia came in with tons of bags.
"Uncle Aro," Agatha beamed. "Nice to finally see you again."
"Your Aro," Sophia beamed as Lamiae and Dragomir came in from behind them breathless with shock.
"Oh, Aro, so good to see you again, little brother," She smiled as they embraced. "I would like you to meet my husband, Mathias." She introduced them.
"So, you are the one that caused them to move away from their natural instincts," Aro asked casually.
"Of drinking blood," Matthias asked. "That is what we do; there is no instincts to tell us what kind."
"You are someone special," Aro shook his hand and went passed them.
"Aro," Empusa chimed to him walking catlike to him. "You came back, how romantic."
"It's nice to see you here," Simanito went to shake his hand.
"Agatha, look whose here," Empusa called as her and Sophia came in with tons of bags.
"Uncle Aro," Agatha beamed. "Nice to finally see you again."
"Your Aro," Sophia beamed as Lamiae and Dragomir came in from behind them breathless with shock.
"Aro," Lamiae came up instantly and hugged him. "So nice to see my little brother had grown a little wiser by surprising his wife, even without my advice."
"Not like I ever had to ask for it," Aro responded to his old sister.
"Dragomir," Aro spoke greeting him.
"Aro," Dragomir responded.
"So you must be the girl that can make it rain?" Aro came up to his niece.
"Yes, I plan to make sure the weather for Seattle tomorrow is right," Sophia answered.
"It is nice to meet you, perhaps you can come to Volterra sometime," Aro suggested. "The Cullens will be good to you, I am sure of it. Not to mention, I sent one of the guard is there."
"You sent one of your guard members?" Lamiae asked, touched.
"Yes," Aro answered. "Felix, he will protect you from any dangers of North America."
"He's the one you created that one night?" Hecate asked, wishing Didyme was here to enjoy this moment.
"Yes, which is why he will protect you," Aro informed.
"Well, it was very nice to send a guard to protect them," Matthias nodded. "Considering all those wars, and the threat some see in the Hales."
"We are very excited about going, have many things planned," Dragomir went on looking up from his Greek-English book. "Thanks to learn how to use the internet."
"The Quileute Indians who live nearby will have a cloudless, but rainless day for their art festival in July," Sophia informed excitedly as Monroe and Charamaos came in wet.
"Aro," Monroe called as Aro stopped.
"Am I hearing that voice out loud?" Aro said turning to see his youngest sister wet hair with another vampire he never seen before.
"Aro," Monroe went up to hug him. "Oh, I missed you so much, I want you to meet my mate Charamaos."
"I heard many positive things about you from her," Charamaos shook his hand. "Please to finally meet you."
"I am glad someone made my sister's dream come true," He said shaking his hand. "Where is Hector and Philomela?"
"They should be coming in any minute, with your daughter…and someone else I might add," Hecate said happily giving him an anxious smile, clearly overjoyed that her brother was here. It was a few short moments, Hector and Philomela came in shocked to see the large gathering of vampires in the hotel lobby.
"There they are," Sulpicia spotted them coming in. "Hector, Philomela, this is my husband, your uncle, Aro." Sulpicia introduced proudly. The two both shook his hand politely as the entire coven gathered around them. "Philomela is Hecate's creation, and daughter. Hector was the one raised by Monroe and Charamaos."
"It was a good thing they were the ones who found you," Aro pointed out. "It is lovely to finally meet both my eldest and youngest sisters' creations."
"Where is Jane?" Sulpicia asked her younger niece.
"She went with Gisbert," Philomela answered. "So they can be alone."
"Good," She turned quickly back to her sisters. "We are going to go out for awhile."
"Alright, we will catch her later," They smiled as Sulpicia left with her husband. They walked through the dark early hours of morning, with only the lamplight to guide them. They did nothing but talk along the way, they talk things out each willing to make adjustments and approve their lives together. They made their way to the ruins of the Agora, reminiscing through that first decade. They clearly were meant for one another, both had a miserable time without the other.
It was as they walked the old grounds, they heard stones cluttering against one another. It was then they spotted a couple making out from the old stone ruins of where they had so many memoires they were fond of, the place that was like the honeymoon of their immortal life. The couple was kissing immensely with each other, with their arms wrapped around one another and their lips locked going out it at a fast rate. The girl took off her jacket as the boy started pressing his lips against his neck.
"You think they can get a room," Sulpicia said as she led Aro away. He stopped pausing staring at the couple. The female, seemed to be enjoying every second of the attention. She took off her mate's jacket, as his hands covered her. It was an obvious couple, they were so soft and sweet with one another, yet strong and steady. They heard her say that his kisses where like sugar is to humans. He said she was like shade one a sunny day. It was when she pulled her hair back revealing the original vampire bite Aro interrupted.
"Jane!" Aro shouted instantly as her and Gisbert jumped and looked forward.
"Aro," Jane said shocked as her and Gisbert came by her side.
"Who's your friend?" Aro asked with a little shock in his voice.
"This is Gisbert, master," Jane answered. "He is my friend, the one I wrote to you about." She stared at him, in a way that made the others feel inadequate. "The one that's so powerful, strong, handsome, kind, charming, intelligent, understanding, humorous, wise-"
"We get it," Aro hissed interrupting.
"Nice to meet you," Gisbert offered his hand.
"May I?" Aro asked.
"Sure," Gisbert said cheerfully as Aro took his hand and read his thoughts. He was the one who could take on a girl like Jane, he understood her. He had the light hearted humor to match her hard strength. He had the power to relax others, she had the power to cause pain. He gave the illusion of water, she gave the illusion of fire. Aro would surly see how they fit together like a puzzle.
"Interesting thoughts you had about my daughter," Aro said for a short moment it seemed his eyes were about to come out of his head. "But quiet normal for a male who is physically and mentally sixteen, I suppose."
"Oh, well, she's gorgeous," Gisbert put her arm around Jane. Then he read his thoughts, it seemed he was greatly disturbed by something. He seemed almost scared as he read Gisbert's mind's past.
"Jane," Aro paused letting Gisbert's hand. "Can I have a word with you in private?"
"Sure," Jane answered then kissed Gisbert on the cheek and left.
"What feelings do you have for him?" Aro demanded. "I've never seen you behave in such a manner."
"Like what?" Jane asked.
"You're acting as if there is no other responsibility than him," Aro gasped. "When he's around, you act as if he is your only duty."
"And he does the same," Jane said casually. "I never thought I could be so happy being a vampire, but his very presence makes me feel more powerful and it seems his very life has become such an importance to me. I love him, he's my mate. I never thought I would say that, but he is, and he is all that matters to me. He's my mate. He's my future, and the only one I love."
"More than your coven?" Aro asked. "Him or the Volturi."
"Don't make me chose," Jane sniffed. "That's impossible for vampires to do, and if he can't be in the Volturi, then I can't." She spoke her words like poison to Aro, it was words of fear he didn't want to hear. It was too much to bare, the number of covens that would take advantage if her or her brother left. "He will be with me, standing by my side and I will be by his side whether we are wearing black uniforms or not."
"I can arrange that," Aro said slyly. "His mother and creator was a succubus, they are a very well known legend, perhaps it's time we punish the source. His stepfather made a scene at a wedding two hundred years ago, he stole the bride, after calling out her poor parents, making a scene before the ceremony that caused the girl's mother and father to become so traumatized they were put in an asylum for life. His stepsister killed a very important Polish count during her newborn year. Their former coven, well, Marcus will have some words with the leader and his coven I am sure of it. His new brother-in-law is a vampire that has been fearful of us for centuries. It is very important we questioned why and I am sure once the others receive justice, a suicide request will be in order from him. Then maybe, Gisbert will be yours…you see my point, Jane."
"I see, master," Jane turned away not even wanting to face Aro.
"Good," Aro walked back, to have Gisbert come over a few minutes later. He came up happily to see her again, but then stopped, to see her unsettled greatly by something.
"Jane, what's wrong." Gisbert asked defensively.
"I'm sorry," Jane whispered. "Please don't take it the wrong way, you are the last thing I expected, and the way I feel about you is something I never thought would come in my life. I can't be with you."
"Why not?" Gisbert asked suddenly.
"Aro will kill you if you I leave his coven and you won't be happy in Volterra." Jane explained as Gisbert came and held her.
"But for tonight, I want you to be mine. Please, understand though, I love you, and you made me see the world for a whole new way. I thank you for that, but I love you too much to put you and your coven in any danger just so we can be a pair. So for tonight, you will be mine. Then you will be free." Jane went to his arms, wanting to be close to him as possible.
"I can't be free from you; there is nothing to be free of." Gisbert responded to her. He didn't want to let this moment go. He wanted her in his arms where she belonged, forever. He kissed her, as she let herself go, and felt her hands going against his skin. He wanted her all to himself, like she was at this moment.
"Please, just honor my wishes. Tomorrow, I am going back to Italy, don't go after me, and don't miss me," Jane then kissed him. "For the night, I am yours. You are the last thing I ever expected, and I am the last thing you need. So just for this moment, you are mine and I am yours."
"I want you," Gisbert said. "You have me under such a deep spell, the way I feel about you is something I never thought I could feel. If that is what you want, I will be with you. I will accept that there is no future for us, but I don't care about that. As long as I have you for this short moment, will be better than not having you at all." Gisbert shook his head. "Let me say, I am the only one who will be in pain when you don't look at me." Jane then turned and kissed him, knowing this one time would be better than never feeling his touch at all.
~X~
"Be sure to call us the minute you land on the portable phone," Hecate reminded them again as Sulpicia looked at the time.
"I am sure wherever she is, she's safe," Nikki assured them.
"You are in good hands," Aro informed Lamiae. "I trust this coven leader."
"It just seems so strange leaving Greece, going to the new world after hearing so many stories about the vampires there," Aysun sighed still unsure.
"Don't worry, sevgilim, we've been there before," Nikki comforted his wife. "Not to mention Aro sent one of his creations over to look after us."
"That was very kind," Empusa smiled gratefully to Aro. "I suppose it was only natural of the Volturi when members of their sister coven are heading to such a war torn place. Just remember you are going as Greek citizens, no matter what, you are part of the Greek coven now," Empusa reminded casually.
"That is very important you three remember, especially when you come across other vampires, you are of the Greek coven is connected to the Volturi," Aro stressed as the four Hales nodded. "Keep your symbols with you at all times."
"Well, I guess she doesn't want to…." Dragomir stopped looking up from his watch to see Jane bursting through the airport and instantly hugging Sophia with a glow on her face, something they never seen before. She was radiating, despite no change in her body, something about her said she was no longer a child.
"You have a safe trip, you hear me," Jane kissed her friend on the cheek. "I got this for you, to take with you."
"A watch?" Sophia questioned.
"It adjust with the time, I put purple diamonds your favorite color. Figured if you're going to the United States best to arrive in style." They both giggled at that at that as she turned to face the Hales who had their luggage ready to go. "I'll give you a ring on your cell while I'm there. Don't let any of those shape-shifters fall in love with you, now, do you hear me girly?"
"I won't," Sophia thanked her they then exchanged kisses on the cheeks.
"Tell your sister and her coven that the Volturi send their best regards," She said to them. "Keep in touch with her afterwards, siblings are very important and are there when they need you the most, even if they won't admit to it." They all nodded in agreement. "That is why we must be loyal, no matter what the circumstances." She looked towards Beyza and Aysun. "Some of us needed to be reminded of that. I would like to thank you, for teaching me so much. I hope others will take the time to learn from you what I have." Jane knew that what she had learned from the twins, would make her a better guard member by simply being more understanding.
"Uncle Dragomir," Jane called.
"Yes, dear," He responded.
"I would like to thank you, for being understanding," She stuttered as Aro gave his brother-in-law a puzzled expression on his face, wondering how Dragomir could relate to any of Jane's problems.
"Your welcome, Jane," Dragomir chuckled looking towards Aro, knowing exactly what she was talking about.
"Love you, Jane," Lamiae hugged her.
"Final boarding call for Seattle, USA," A voice boomed through the air port.
"We have to get going, they are expecting us," Alexander rushed them. They said their last goodbyes and left for their flight to Seattle.
"Time for us to go to catch our flight back as well," Aro said as Jane noticed her suitcase was already packed.
"Where's Gisbert?" Philomela asked.
"He left already," Jane said quickly as Hector gave her a worried stare. "Keep in touch with me, will you?"
"Yes, of course you're my best friend." Philomela answered hugging her. It was now time to leave.
"I suppose we should catch our flight," Aro suggested as they nodded saying their last goodbyes and left. Jane stood between Agatha and Philomela for the longest time, sharing one last moment of kindred friendship. She said goodbye to her aunts and uncles then boarded the plan.
Jane sat for a moment, feeling extremely relaxed, like floating in water. She felt so at peace, and calm causing her to turn to see Gisbert at the edge of the air field behind the fence watching her board. The plan took off, Jane pressed her hand against the window, as her eyes peered down. They could never be together; she was letting him go for his sake. She didn't want his family slaughtered for them to be together. She was being completely selfless for the first time in her immortal life. She knew he wasn't going to go after it. Simply because he asked him not to, he respected her too much to go against her, and she loved him too much to cause any threat to his peaceful lifestyle. He watched alone as the flight took off, leaving Jane content. Someone had loved her that much and she loved him enough to let him go. They were going to write of course, but they both understood why they couldn't be together. They were still mates, but they each had their own coven.
~X~
They then came to the airport, Alec was there waiting for them. Jane ran up, still feeling happier than she ever felt before as she approached her brother. He seemed exhausted, as if all source of comfort had been drain. She had never seen him so miserable. It was as if it was upsetting to go on, he was hurting, Jane could tell in an instant she was hurting. The happiness of finding love ended with seeing this emptiness with her brother. He was alone, and in deep pain.
"Alec?" Jane came up. "Are you alright?"
"What's wrong?" Sulpicia asked right away.
"Nothing, just happy to see my sister," Alec said promptly, not even looking at Aro. He didn't seem happy at all, it was as if he was incapable of producing any joy. "Glad to see your back, Sulpicia. Jane, I will help you with your luggage." He continued to ignore Aro, as he went to the baggage claim to help Jane.
Jane could tell there was something inside him, he was forced to smile. It was as if living itself was a burden, he was lost in his thoughts. He seemed to be living a hopeless existence, Jane could see it, he was hurting. They walked from the airport to Volterra. Jane wanted to talk to her brother, like he use to, but he barely responded. He seemed off in his own world, when Jane talked about Gisbert she was surprised by his reaction. He seemed disappointed that she chose not to hold onto that love, he was in even more pain when she talked about not being with him. He seemed to want to say something about her choosing to let him go, but he went silent. Jane, however, knew she made the right choice. The thoughts of Gisbert returning home on a stolen motorcycle with his hair in the wind, free form this tower life was enough for her. Gisbert was free, his family was safe, and he didn't have to serve to those who looked down apon him. She returned for her brother, but something was different between them. The connection they had dimmed, it was like they no longer completed each other. They were no longer half of a whole.
"Aro," Sulpicia started coming up to him. "We are missing one thing."
"What, I will find a way to do anything," Aro said straightly, stressing it in his voice.
"I want my eldest son back," Sulpicia answered simply.