tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78934687447335877492024-03-18T22:01:07.404-04:00Cold BloodedDaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.comBlogger77125truetag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-52191630722158110172023-02-05T16:20:00.002-05:002023-06-16T09:31:59.093-04:0070: Ready to Grumble – Pt. 1 <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdNt12eJMNLSvaLQAZaUR9gwsjpVC-WtIo9Yz1lk6Mg44Z5DZTFsAiizqZu6BGT32NGIcogR7st6XAEc9gmruYitFSCrZw5ByqTwtJGqW6d8NsrhRskxYlqCO5pJXm8xIW_csPSzrsLv2FnkpR21k4BMOoCgsI7DXZZ1y8dkUKjFJBmizMl-5kGbPwQ/s1920/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLdNt12eJMNLSvaLQAZaUR9gwsjpVC-WtIo9Yz1lk6Mg44Z5DZTFsAiizqZu6BGT32NGIcogR7st6XAEc9gmruYitFSCrZw5ByqTwtJGqW6d8NsrhRskxYlqCO5pJXm8xIW_csPSzrsLv2FnkpR21k4BMOoCgsI7DXZZ1y8dkUKjFJBmizMl-5kGbPwQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjku_wk1HTdnjQ_0qrAgrmB0mNoyvy3rEE-XuS2Gl6sjESqgXGeB2ndaVsfd7IbFa_q8U52-bOBnSfn0Y5ppDZgIb-VgmEgm4fWC4y6ETtX48DC6UTy93yLw7x3tCx30t8Yp19GUd4pEH-atnVbOiwos9TQH4xxmuCgDOh_UUsPZLrQuASAsiGT4wOpKQ/s1920/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjku_wk1HTdnjQ_0qrAgrmB0mNoyvy3rEE-XuS2Gl6sjESqgXGeB2ndaVsfd7IbFa_q8U52-bOBnSfn0Y5ppDZgIb-VgmEgm4fWC4y6ETtX48DC6UTy93yLw7x3tCx30t8Yp19GUd4pEH-atnVbOiwos9TQH4xxmuCgDOh_UUsPZLrQuASAsiGT4wOpKQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Morning!” Derrick greeted Victoria with a smile as she
sauntered into the kitchen. He was busy preparing breakfast, expertly tossing
pancakes around a skillet before plating them for her.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Good morning. You seem cheery. Add a little something extra
to the coffee?” she asked, taking a seat at the bar counter as he set a plate and mug
of hot coffee down in front of her.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What? Can’t a guy just be happy? The woman of my dreams;
love of my life is with me, safe and…whole. What more could I ask for?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I guess.” Grabbing her phone, she began checking her
messages and responding to a text from Mike. “Hmm. Looks like we have a new
case.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“New case?” <span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHk92Ux6BjuGX_eYZRfiDT7KJxD99vO9ylCO0sXNdWQxR-74mk4osDWBa3vjaaw7kCLQ54q5MjTrjwmdKSxJbg108Re9oR17xJoEZr0y868yVfiP3UMgEwf3S-sdRBL1cAnai5sp2v3ZYMzIWz-5P9e6c6QuDcPkl2MHQgH9pv0i-n5idSzIUdvJnIw/s1920/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYHk92Ux6BjuGX_eYZRfiDT7KJxD99vO9ylCO0sXNdWQxR-74mk4osDWBa3vjaaw7kCLQ54q5MjTrjwmdKSxJbg108Re9oR17xJoEZr0y868yVfiP3UMgEwf3S-sdRBL1cAnai5sp2v3ZYMzIWz-5P9e6c6QuDcPkl2MHQgH9pv0i-n5idSzIUdvJnIw/w640-h360/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsY74Hw9svOE-m_jy1bSmoKVRwUS0PKGkY9gnkKFsGn8_OMy9Huk__meLVFEVUlNGuwBFZnWn4-OwJ2OomayM4p46roS7Lpy7tDEnR09TCWYKFghCKdwzDW84sCg-G1ATKIRvsbNYRbiDI_vILd9_3Q8S5O5Mw2-QcqPzTZs7cXqzfKOSlDslPb836Ug/s1920/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsY74Hw9svOE-m_jy1bSmoKVRwUS0PKGkY9gnkKFsGn8_OMy9Huk__meLVFEVUlNGuwBFZnWn4-OwJ2OomayM4p46roS7Lpy7tDEnR09TCWYKFghCKdwzDW84sCg-G1ATKIRvsbNYRbiDI_vILd9_3Q8S5O5Mw2-QcqPzTZs7cXqzfKOSlDslPb836Ug/w640-h360/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Yeah, Mike is waiting for me at the office so we can review,”
she said standing and moving toward the fridge in search of jam.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Victoria, after everything that’s happened recently, I’d
feel more comfortable if you took the day off. Just stay here, kick your feet
up and relax,” he said. Derrick inched forward. His hands claimed her hips and he turned her so her body was flush against him, pressing every inch
of her from the waist down into his body. “Please.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ok,” Victoria replied. Derrick’s eyebrows fused together
and he narrowed his steely gaze at her. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ok? Wait…no arm twisting, no bribing—just, ok?” he asked,
feeling the place between her thighs, the hot, moist part of her rub against
him in a way that ached. A groan fell from between his lips and she shuddered
as his mouth skated across her neck, to settle at her earlobe. “Victoria, I
mean it. I don’t want you to go out,” he said, nuzzling her and feeling her
warm breath move over him.</p><p class="MsoNormal">“I know, Derrick, and I’ll stay.” His hands slid upward
until he cupped her head and his fingers slid along her jaw in a smooth motion.
Victoria looked up at him as his mouth brushed against the softness of hers, enjoying
the shy blossom of her lips. “I promise.” <o:p></o:p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMF_f7-KePiQ-ypH7LboZL4bdsILeySaMM-Wxh_viA9BSVuCDFlaXaYU2T0qCDJlkRRiepQCmYL2F09TRG9Jiw8TWnRijMdTH9oe-L9Df0uFGP7QHCFsbkb7JOoH4zPFqNVKc2Ssx4CrZltBv__5hElJn_eaFz9vczUAD5CCrL-JyU4saYKjhE2jawg/s1920/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyMF_f7-KePiQ-ypH7LboZL4bdsILeySaMM-Wxh_viA9BSVuCDFlaXaYU2T0qCDJlkRRiepQCmYL2F09TRG9Jiw8TWnRijMdTH9oe-L9Df0uFGP7QHCFsbkb7JOoH4zPFqNVKc2Ssx4CrZltBv__5hElJn_eaFz9vczUAD5CCrL-JyU4saYKjhE2jawg/w640-h360/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtzrS0RCshklI5rCOlUPi2Fzx9Vw8AuaOP-wQNi5SVQGohBBiUq3LoP4cROL-nMEmxuGb_QtyX35MwWQ9xKAAgp3JrNq_NA4TKMmaZ__ha8SS6HvjFnEKUXpmA2IEgZkcG3qSz6FuMY7rRu6jtttiKbMifYEC6fCm16dF6rUiNL1hxOKpgOugmypTnw/s1920/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtzrS0RCshklI5rCOlUPi2Fzx9Vw8AuaOP-wQNi5SVQGohBBiUq3LoP4cROL-nMEmxuGb_QtyX35MwWQ9xKAAgp3JrNq_NA4TKMmaZ__ha8SS6HvjFnEKUXpmA2IEgZkcG3qSz6FuMY7rRu6jtttiKbMifYEC6fCm16dF6rUiNL1hxOKpgOugmypTnw/w640-h360/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Derrick dipped his head, completing the kiss and felt
Victoria moan against his lips. He loved the little catch of breath she gave as
he slid his tongue inside, loved the taste of her and the way she couldn’t
resist putting her arms around his shoulders and twining her fingers in his
hair. She touched his tongue with hers and when his tongue fell back, she
followed, delving into his mouth, touching his teeth, strumming his lips. </div><div><br /></div><div>Gently,
he sucked at her tongue, rasping the end with his own. When she leaned back,
out of breath, Derrick lifted his head and waited for her to open her eyes. When
she did, he was struck by her beauty. He searched her face, watching as she
returned from the sensual place where the kiss had taken her. He knew if he explored
for the rest of his eternity, he would never find the words to describe how she
made him feel. It was deep-seated male pride, wrapped in a hard need to please,
surrounded by that now-familiar warmth that clung to his chest and made him
feel invincible. “I love you, Victoria.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I love you too, Derrick.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Come on. I’ll start you a bath and then you can have
whatever you want.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ice cream?” she asked with a girlish giggle and smile that
lit up her eyes, producing one just as big on his face.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhIUAJXEjx4RDXcBjrd1_dqx8XnYTS2QOCqTE2q9LxbOH7FfJCXtAiFmO-AHnqFrmLaoq3CQkey0Yxaz-NU7NYWphB2YHsBZxzaOZrBajLc0OreZ3Mq1Pg2N7IWeMyvQ43RKKLTuBjbxtmOFKeg0I0fKf1H6sryhGTqVFMxNTLjXMxlatiHK4YBn17Q/s1920/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQhIUAJXEjx4RDXcBjrd1_dqx8XnYTS2QOCqTE2q9LxbOH7FfJCXtAiFmO-AHnqFrmLaoq3CQkey0Yxaz-NU7NYWphB2YHsBZxzaOZrBajLc0OreZ3Mq1Pg2N7IWeMyvQ43RKKLTuBjbxtmOFKeg0I0fKf1H6sryhGTqVFMxNTLjXMxlatiHK4YBn17Q/w640-h360/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpc1lymPiGXV9S94dBl8n_HVmq4uyX8rk74gN4-0PQs0j6tcChYsh9ya0-z9Nj0vI5zCIuFppdbbbyJ2KXS3CXaTXZ1Le9c1Rjj25U43OIU4AKteYLtRxyij3NdRsh7EWsvC9ZXsgOCncQngvHhijZI7VLALN74YMFuPy8l7LnTq80BP8lPtwP-1qf2Q/s1920/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpc1lymPiGXV9S94dBl8n_HVmq4uyX8rk74gN4-0PQs0j6tcChYsh9ya0-z9Nj0vI5zCIuFppdbbbyJ2KXS3CXaTXZ1Le9c1Rjj25U43OIU4AKteYLtRxyij3NdRsh7EWsvC9ZXsgOCncQngvHhijZI7VLALN74YMFuPy8l7LnTq80BP8lPtwP-1qf2Q/w640-h360/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Ice cream it is.” Hades trotted along behind them as
Derrick led Victoria upstairs. After preparing a warm bath for her, he gently
kissed her forehead and headed for the store.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Just as Viktoria settled into the warm bubbles, she heard a
loud knock on the front door. “Seriously!?” she exclaimed, her eyes shooting
open at the sudden interruption. Hoping it was just a Girl Scout selling
cookies or a wayward pack of Jehovah’s Witnesses she could ignore, she waited
and slowly began closing her eyes again and once more, was disturbed by the
loud, incessant knocking at the door. “Great!” she sighed, realizing whomever
was downstairs was not giving up so easily.</p><p class="MsoNormal">Tossing on a robe, she started out of the bathroom and peered through the small window in Derrick’s front door, groaning as she saw who was waiting on the other side. “That’s right! It’s me,” Mike shouted from the other side, “I’m not going away either. Better open up or I’ll come through a window.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVscaGTFJFi5qWfGMfmTYjJrygIfOWOtWcna4CUf9xqsv9Gr4nyH68c-Kd9zljuGuJ6z3ZHWntRVm_XA5HVsXKONgODXDDF_G3nVriQorCFCVpI0LkRpZo8UqZL9JxdQRvHqWtMMyjmC6hUTkWG3XPfaLUYH4f3EzZRwtRnueKMvsCOMbg2_dR6e1xOw/s1920/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVscaGTFJFi5qWfGMfmTYjJrygIfOWOtWcna4CUf9xqsv9Gr4nyH68c-Kd9zljuGuJ6z3ZHWntRVm_XA5HVsXKONgODXDDF_G3nVriQorCFCVpI0LkRpZo8UqZL9JxdQRvHqWtMMyjmC6hUTkWG3XPfaLUYH4f3EzZRwtRnueKMvsCOMbg2_dR6e1xOw/w640-h360/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxfstaSeg2bGtYtNVAjRhqwcUfVJeVoczRPjUKNzaUzvhljGca11p9VAuVHc4D6gufVsK6oMMQFkSzhw7PY8iqv2VCT8T1wn24BmVwMfTor47hfIApXWk-tDuUxObZ35diEDMgalGkrqVAhF91KGLT0J9ZsdFkveT1NBmAQdZnhcw4_3ZQUfCmDpAuA/s1920/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUxfstaSeg2bGtYtNVAjRhqwcUfVJeVoczRPjUKNzaUzvhljGca11p9VAuVHc4D6gufVsK6oMMQFkSzhw7PY8iqv2VCT8T1wn24BmVwMfTor47hfIApXWk-tDuUxObZ35diEDMgalGkrqVAhF91KGLT0J9ZsdFkveT1NBmAQdZnhcw4_3ZQUfCmDpAuA/w640-h360/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Opening the door, Victoria offered him a smile and noticed
the stack of files clutched in his left hand. “Hey, Mike.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Partner.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“How did you know I was here?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Really?” Mike asked, quirking a brow in her direction. “I’m
a detective, Vik, don’t insult me. You’ve just gone through something horrific;
I knew Derrick wouldn’t want you out of his sight. Besides, I went by your
place and you weren’t home,” he humorously admitted.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ah ha. Well, nice work, Partner,” Victoria laughed before
stepping aside and allowing him to enter. “What’s all this?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh uh, I decided that since you wouldn’t come to me, I’d
bring the work to you. Got a place I can set up?” Looking her up and down, he
realized Victoria wasn’t dressed and cleared his throat before deflecting his
gaze. “You uh, might want to go and put something on. We have work to do.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vVP2iaWYswuVXuFsYDnT3imV_w8fbNaeY-J3yhdaI37AmFkfCJQ8ATNrG2bFsZcpwuY3_SW_pNWIHutkGd_jrce36-jTswAF8eYi6I4Rfmhzut4eVPdBW2ALOP-ma_A8PdpjzWOeBokNw3QrjLeLIaKB_TImQKCpCH9yxEpEx5-btedMOdyT3s6Cw/s1920/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vVP2iaWYswuVXuFsYDnT3imV_w8fbNaeY-J3yhdaI37AmFkfCJQ8ATNrG2bFsZcpwuY3_SW_pNWIHutkGd_jrce36-jTswAF8eYi6I4Rfmhzut4eVPdBW2ALOP-ma_A8PdpjzWOeBokNw3QrjLeLIaKB_TImQKCpCH9yxEpEx5-btedMOdyT3s6Cw/w640-h360/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>“Right!” she responded, remembering that she’d just thrown
on a robe. “Feel free to use the study,” she pointed. “I’ll be right back.”
Moments later, Victoria returned to find Mike had sprawled casefiles over
nearly every surface of Derrick’s work space. “Whoa! What is this? How can <i>one</i> new case already have so much
paperwork behind it?”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Because I realized, much like all of our other cases, this
was not one of the garden variety murders we’ve been solving. It’s another from
your side of weird.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ok. That still doesn’t explain all of this research.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, when I got the details from our client, I did a Nexus
dive. Found out similar circumstances occurred five, ten, fifteen and twenty
years ago. A pattern. Always five years apart and always sparked by what, at
first, appears to be a random homicide.”</p><p class="MsoNormal">“So, what’s the case?” The front door slammed closed and heavy
footsteps approached from down the hall. Victoria turned with a smile seeing
her boyfriend entering the study.<o:p></o:p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vYIddRqhfSMpkae8lUbukG5B5jmpzJpWQvTLpKBIRIdNKZFF3ohRFF24V3PVy32Kgg0WLpGKB-Sbxs_1il_8f2gKXAV5tOpBAKSb5fUYE4-Uj7NnQSzL8mygCF0cVNvJ9y9bWgaNs9yjZuS4EBTrmqyZlHroxvS_Jtu8dbEgjFC-ja8jTjMBkwbPIg/s1920/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vYIddRqhfSMpkae8lUbukG5B5jmpzJpWQvTLpKBIRIdNKZFF3ohRFF24V3PVy32Kgg0WLpGKB-Sbxs_1il_8f2gKXAV5tOpBAKSb5fUYE4-Uj7NnQSzL8mygCF0cVNvJ9y9bWgaNs9yjZuS4EBTrmqyZlHroxvS_Jtu8dbEgjFC-ja8jTjMBkwbPIg/w640-h360/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw_ihRGH2Z9dWrhLtGvehHq8gwi2Ea9-erDJvc5VE3fWFAl2wpEG1TYNi_RpLUO40piFekEVE8K9Tyad4uRjquVKNWuBUUmNHEfw9Hi4X1flVv6pbVQ9lkZav5e7lwAAtMgToIBcWR76Wexnb17cX8lSXzGscSx6srJy7-8BwUE_jhJ-FeSnc264tPw/s1920/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVw_ihRGH2Z9dWrhLtGvehHq8gwi2Ea9-erDJvc5VE3fWFAl2wpEG1TYNi_RpLUO40piFekEVE8K9Tyad4uRjquVKNWuBUUmNHEfw9Hi4X1flVv6pbVQ9lkZav5e7lwAAtMgToIBcWR76Wexnb17cX8lSXzGscSx6srJy7-8BwUE_jhJ-FeSnc264tPw/w640-h360/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Mike.” Derrick acknowledged flatly, seeing the quick-witted
detective standing in his home.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Hey, Derrick,” Mike nodded a greeting.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What happened to taking the day off?” Derrick asked,
glancing toward Victoria with a questioning expression.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I was but…”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, don’t blame her. I kinda bombarded her.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What he said,” Victoria sighed.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Well then, I guess I’ll put this stuff in the freezer for
later,” Derrick responded, pointing to the bag of goodies. “Can I get you
anything, Mike?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Beer if you got it.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Coming right up.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8QZHKZMco6gIoBCgPOMMrQ0yVe2yRLVu8glT3CHZ-PdkgASMnm6CV5C0hDDDpPSJ1cHMptLwJhs0EPKQeocjfVsIjh3pOs246HoBWR5Ka5TG-r5pXvIO6R84wrjb77_mG0eclLs9nepp041gvAQ0tUXVGJL6YUncXO9bi8lNU6PA9DixKiZyHU7ELA/s1920/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp8QZHKZMco6gIoBCgPOMMrQ0yVe2yRLVu8glT3CHZ-PdkgASMnm6CV5C0hDDDpPSJ1cHMptLwJhs0EPKQeocjfVsIjh3pOs246HoBWR5Ka5TG-r5pXvIO6R84wrjb77_mG0eclLs9nepp041gvAQ0tUXVGJL6YUncXO9bi8lNU6PA9DixKiZyHU7ELA/w640-h360/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFtq63uJPRaSveCnvLB4NzQneGA32JepMdxZrHi7kHKOFUYYCJrTmUHdcn7iijg7KaIDYKUoosS9zRck9_NfpYvfzZWDMP20nYVQESLl1LxfPZEEYtdxA1OLMclQlkDji8N32gBUAyeBTpzM0cMF2p266km6BlbNFMiRVPpg_sDEBer_TO8S_S1-dzQ/s1920/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCFtq63uJPRaSveCnvLB4NzQneGA32JepMdxZrHi7kHKOFUYYCJrTmUHdcn7iijg7KaIDYKUoosS9zRck9_NfpYvfzZWDMP20nYVQESLl1LxfPZEEYtdxA1OLMclQlkDji8N32gBUAyeBTpzM0cMF2p266km6BlbNFMiRVPpg_sDEBer_TO8S_S1-dzQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“As I was saying, the client believes her boyfriend has been
brainwashed or something.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Brainwashed?” Victoria repeated. Mike nodded. “How does someone’s
brainwashed beau equate to something my side of weird.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t know. How many brainwashed suspects did we
encounter while on the job?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Do jacked up meth users count?” Victoria
laughed and Mike sighed. “Ok, let’s say it is supernatural, what prompted you to research
twenty years’ worth of homicides?”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Tracy, that’s our client, said her boyfriend went to work
at the Kaufman & Pierce law firm as a temp for a few days and when he came
home on the last day he had changed. So, I did a quick search on the place and
found there had been reports dating all the way back to 1998. All of them young
men, hired out by the same temp service. The way she described her boyfriend
fit the profile of the other victims to a T. Tracy said her boyfriend has been
displaying growing signs of aggression when he normally has a meek and subdued
disposition. He has been unemotional and non-communicative the last few days;
growling even. He’s clumsy, sickly, and persistent, with a growing, insatiable
appetite for raw meat.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj--Q2eOFYLcUCUMGnrXSx-IOJamRQeFiOlyrW4PhTIZp4S7pC2HQKh5JPQ6dlm1r_veuRSX-5couwcfh6vyrwbEKUghXaeQLJm1rGmjBaO9HdTlJWewaqMotzOPNmmv_uN4ElmS0zic9sBhxrD59eDgGY2-47DzRxt7HVHGakzEkPIP-LQyf_nRF8ulg/s1920/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj--Q2eOFYLcUCUMGnrXSx-IOJamRQeFiOlyrW4PhTIZp4S7pC2HQKh5JPQ6dlm1r_veuRSX-5couwcfh6vyrwbEKUghXaeQLJm1rGmjBaO9HdTlJWewaqMotzOPNmmv_uN4ElmS0zic9sBhxrD59eDgGY2-47DzRxt7HVHGakzEkPIP-LQyf_nRF8ulg/w640-h360/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uaOFJLdKYNUqNaW6KwT5cz9VMDfr6iZf_3631j8lmZt-DxY_LbzHawK96q2phXlIA3jEUd-3bdshi4i8xB9yQ5SHt-Okcwqu2gcWL0LdW3_Ku1uVOj9rS1WUrB0FJktXDpaBBSOBaX14dDlFlE5pxHYbW8MCnJsmL0mc13p5kLYP8gQ7RWrL_lFhhg/s1920/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uaOFJLdKYNUqNaW6KwT5cz9VMDfr6iZf_3631j8lmZt-DxY_LbzHawK96q2phXlIA3jEUd-3bdshi4i8xB9yQ5SHt-Okcwqu2gcWL0LdW3_Ku1uVOj9rS1WUrB0FJktXDpaBBSOBaX14dDlFlE5pxHYbW8MCnJsmL0mc13p5kLYP8gQ7RWrL_lFhhg/w640-h360/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Ah. A zombie,” Derrick said, returning with Mike’s drink.
“I haven’t encountered one of those in almost 200 years.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry. You said what?” Mike asked, taking the bottle
from his hand and twisting off the top.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“A zombie; what you’re describing is a reanimated corpse.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“No. I’m describing a man who has been brainwashed. How do
you get zombie from what I said?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Zombies are aggressive and extremely violent with a
tendency to attack humans in their enraged states. They are dangerous, cannot
be reasoned with because they no longer possess the ability to communicate and
operate on the most basic of human needs: the desire to feed. This growing and
insatiable taste for raw meat will soon become an undying hunger for human
flesh.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6Oq5gg2gI8ols3Vp2zE_426cHZaHoK3vr_NtITUZMOYM0DCrYdP02O9VfOd9o-h6VQdTKpOM2ulbEcpLBFqErrvCi8NTBGIUN6q1rp9LKKyTqXHiAcpkvViwGnklI528CxJtofqtT2d-kKLaxJ2RQc_8te0sbnExYyAiV0R0HtBe38ae-TfNM4JAnA/s1920/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN6Oq5gg2gI8ols3Vp2zE_426cHZaHoK3vr_NtITUZMOYM0DCrYdP02O9VfOd9o-h6VQdTKpOM2ulbEcpLBFqErrvCi8NTBGIUN6q1rp9LKKyTqXHiAcpkvViwGnklI528CxJtofqtT2d-kKLaxJ2RQc_8te0sbnExYyAiV0R0HtBe38ae-TfNM4JAnA/w640-h360/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“I’m sorry, cleaning the wax out of my ears over here, zombies
are <i>real</i>?” Victoria asked. “Since
when?”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Since some Houngan or Mambo, those are voodoo priests and
priestesses, tampered with the dark arts and experimented with necromancy. But
like I said, it’s been a while since I’ve encountered an actual undead.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Derrick, <i>you’re</i>
an actual undead,” Mike pointed out.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“No, Mike, I’m a vampire. And while I’m technically not
alive, I’m also not a walking, rotting, stinking corpse; trust me there is a HUGE
difference.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait so, you’re saying there is an actual Romero style
monster roaming the streets of Avondale at this very moment?” Victoria
inquired.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkdGYT-P1O9Go5zQJ-Z5ruiEnnEiT6Hig2Bp6qJAOX7DjeDNcZ2YPCIu5Q7AJ86AcY68nIphguY_JGIeBmwZMs0kujySGFFQG5b9Eifv2AimCPJNQBEs4eSOt_chP_tekm9rL3XrX8pvhp30JwbRqRcdGskRPQV9Z9G-kRmcz4-K_zYxyFRwfoKNWCA/s1920/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdkdGYT-P1O9Go5zQJ-Z5ruiEnnEiT6Hig2Bp6qJAOX7DjeDNcZ2YPCIu5Q7AJ86AcY68nIphguY_JGIeBmwZMs0kujySGFFQG5b9Eifv2AimCPJNQBEs4eSOt_chP_tekm9rL3XrX8pvhp30JwbRqRcdGskRPQV9Z9G-kRmcz4-K_zYxyFRwfoKNWCA/w640-h360/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNz4Rpv4XYEwH13_m4FRdCWe2gxIEG7QmHnHsZtseQqjgmJyUDoJ1AAptzwmSjD-fXOJyYLpsyshow9Kfscig2tpuOQb1YYnGPK10xA_k6jRt2n2QjDCenqWaC1GCUZUVpFZz0gegtN_KYCH1_goAbRKjgfMcWldNiXm16S9e01T-BHk254BhtCKJesQ/s1920/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNz4Rpv4XYEwH13_m4FRdCWe2gxIEG7QmHnHsZtseQqjgmJyUDoJ1AAptzwmSjD-fXOJyYLpsyshow9Kfscig2tpuOQb1YYnGPK10xA_k6jRt2n2QjDCenqWaC1GCUZUVpFZz0gegtN_KYCH1_goAbRKjgfMcWldNiXm16S9e01T-BHk254BhtCKJesQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“I am. I’m also saying that if we don’t find it and give it a proper death, there will be hundreds more before nightfall,” Derrick replied.</div><div><br /></div><div>“Hundreds?” Mike reiterated.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Make no mistake, these things are vile, gruesome creatures
with the ability to infect the living at an alarming rate. We need to find
Patient Zero as soon as possible.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Mike, Tracy didn’t happen to say what became of this
boyfriend?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Just that he walked out of their apartment sometime after 1
A.M. and she hadn’t heard from or seen him since.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Great. There could already be a dozen more at this point.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsG18rnWIe1Qn6cSfs4ujI471XN6gagZbMjsRnC11lnR0r93KktMny9E7SSfm2XNyM69EggZvUCYhrNhWQHVStrl3gleV1msM9CqGXUt8unvzOf7BUxVVNhYebZ8DM-pCb1__fgR8YChJXFF4OhcLGAA2K-1zTwBKhXlveNQc6eyOhxLJjLAc-wvDmQ/s1920/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFsG18rnWIe1Qn6cSfs4ujI471XN6gagZbMjsRnC11lnR0r93KktMny9E7SSfm2XNyM69EggZvUCYhrNhWQHVStrl3gleV1msM9CqGXUt8unvzOf7BUxVVNhYebZ8DM-pCb1__fgR8YChJXFF4OhcLGAA2K-1zTwBKhXlveNQc6eyOhxLJjLAc-wvDmQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0zV5-fp3vNxGBnMK_YdbzLC4ocAt2HIPU7UwBvo6cxxUKTUNWhEqbWqh5Ocnkahh2sgphE4Do9xziNE5F3e-uifY01arBKX5HnBQuz0BlV9nz5dfil3ZIGCSahGcdpv-VC2cd5fCCwWfXi2Q2MALuRoaOyReTGt6Iiws-kHETQVSFJcwmMBGn_MnYw/s1920/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu0zV5-fp3vNxGBnMK_YdbzLC4ocAt2HIPU7UwBvo6cxxUKTUNWhEqbWqh5Ocnkahh2sgphE4Do9xziNE5F3e-uifY01arBKX5HnBQuz0BlV9nz5dfil3ZIGCSahGcdpv-VC2cd5fCCwWfXi2Q2MALuRoaOyReTGt6Iiws-kHETQVSFJcwmMBGn_MnYw/w640-h360/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“One other thing I should mention, Victoria,” Derrick said,
a grim expression overtaking his features. “Zombie is on the list of creatures
needed for the resurrection. I can only assume that this sudden reappearance of
the undead is no mere coincidence, especially considering Cassatt was kicked
out of the Elders’ guild for his practices of the dark arts, in particular:
necromancy.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“So, he either has a role in this case or lucked out that if
he gets his hands on one of these monsters he will now be one step closer
to the revival of the Destroyer,” Victoria summarized. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Exactly. And we don’t know how far along he was to begin
with. This may very well be the final piece.”</p></div>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-61368159349332582022023-01-22T08:10:00.004-05:002024-02-22T00:04:44.210-05:0069: Which Witch is which? – Pt. 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhyCFG4cdZwdzH-M7Jedh33jYBhdma-WAyNa2nMUM0LhnSIn7DegkQnUqQbjTqjLSg_EIHG959GZDcYv8bPR3VArZ8P9BE-umA8gMPUneLCcsv7_XNx0mjswl71r4pHr6wPX8K65Kjl5F3uJ2uv4T5poXF_thT0Z5xXLfTcpPj5sxjyiOkERdaoITFw/s1920/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhyCFG4cdZwdzH-M7Jedh33jYBhdma-WAyNa2nMUM0LhnSIn7DegkQnUqQbjTqjLSg_EIHG959GZDcYv8bPR3VArZ8P9BE-umA8gMPUneLCcsv7_XNx0mjswl71r4pHr6wPX8K65Kjl5F3uJ2uv4T5poXF_thT0Z5xXLfTcpPj5sxjyiOkERdaoITFw/w640-h360/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div><p>Victoria sat on the sofa across from Derrick and herself,
nervously tapping her foot as they waited for Brad to join them. Mike paced the
room. His nerves hadn’t settled having met his partner’s twin. “So…Victoria,”
Victoria started, glancing over at her other half. “How much of what
happened do you remember? Because I’ve been trying and
I gotta say…” </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Look, I don’t know what this is or even if it’s real.
That…thing back at the docks—it had glowing eyes. There is no way that’s
possible, right?” <span></span></p><a name='more'></a><o:p></o:p><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s par for the course with most demons,” Mike offered,
not skipping a beat in his pattern around the fireplace. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Demon? As in pits of hell, soulless monsters with a
bloodlust?” Victoria laughed, startling the other three occupants of the room
before nervously chewing on her bottom lip. “I’ve always known you were
superstitious, Mike, but even that’s a stretch for you.” <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZUFrJN3p0EGoVCSDGVQNfsvlGD1Efksyy7OI0mqn2mYllMf3mPoRiuI8Jzt-uqALr6UcJvs8C1UNc7kg-ZyBIQQCOmwY2szsX0I4xOrVbeYHxmrUEx42s6Kz9AZCQ5lWfijcTfAcjq49eqv5iqMBdokYrB8oKOOw6GPllKzf7kCpEhWAGVVwff6Wvw/s1920/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXZUFrJN3p0EGoVCSDGVQNfsvlGD1Efksyy7OI0mqn2mYllMf3mPoRiuI8Jzt-uqALr6UcJvs8C1UNc7kg-ZyBIQQCOmwY2szsX0I4xOrVbeYHxmrUEx42s6Kz9AZCQ5lWfijcTfAcjq49eqv5iqMBdokYrB8oKOOw6GPllKzf7kCpEhWAGVVwff6Wvw/w640-h360/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrZLQc4Dwn8VOpiPxgHEx0X6rTf40L4GZYDewJU_uFa9iJNzcf90lzX3Glp9zm7aBfhrWT800Lrrwsrp_HircWgDnB6DvCw07D0hCS0LCfacTYkrHvCuN93WnoV9V1x2prKEBedw91YN63Dn0hEZc4LiB2GYFnY6a3BNUCnhZjN4HkybLYrzlYlxrcA/s1920/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrZLQc4Dwn8VOpiPxgHEx0X6rTf40L4GZYDewJU_uFa9iJNzcf90lzX3Glp9zm7aBfhrWT800Lrrwsrp_HircWgDnB6DvCw07D0hCS0LCfacTYkrHvCuN93WnoV9V1x2prKEBedw91YN63Dn0hEZc4LiB2GYFnY6a3BNUCnhZjN4HkybLYrzlYlxrcA/w640-h360/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">“I’ve got it!” Brad Devereux shouted as he entered the
room. He was holding a book bound in thick, gnarled leather with
yellowing pages and strange diagrams. “I think I know what happened to
our—Victorias. Somehow, her psyche split during the trance. It
could have happened when I called for her or it could have been the jolt from
being awakened without proper magic.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">“You mean she and I are the same person and she’s not some
magical replica?” Victoria asked to which Brad nodded. “How? She and I don’t
share the same memories.” <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">“Ah, but you do. This Victoria,” he said motioning to the
one across from her, “Knows everything up to a certain point while you
have all of your present memories intact. Which means…” <o:p></o:p></p><p>
</p><p class="MsoNormal">“Whatever memory Victoria’s mind was on at the time you did
the locator spell is where the other Victoria was pulled,” Derrick
completed the thought. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vxG9DglRs7GJSH5H1aMuepCsa1FSfvHGhmSrok8gP6KS4H_hYwzGISE10C7wSs5byVaAhvRW1BmZcX3d0YlGdJkGZ-U_Y6fLPfpw81Q282thUMfZaVsREN9j5YvGAnD0IH1YddQZOb8a91H6STyCM0eV4O0axpU2OiOTSTCKdWjodhd6oXJdlPWEbQ/s1920/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vxG9DglRs7GJSH5H1aMuepCsa1FSfvHGhmSrok8gP6KS4H_hYwzGISE10C7wSs5byVaAhvRW1BmZcX3d0YlGdJkGZ-U_Y6fLPfpw81Q282thUMfZaVsREN9j5YvGAnD0IH1YddQZOb8a91H6STyCM0eV4O0axpU2OiOTSTCKdWjodhd6oXJdlPWEbQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2gIDRtmbAb7GGt9RO_3nLhUpKKKvzQiRPvvGmBXcBQyimyuW8xtKkyFh0hA1UGfAj4mlriP75gEM6GKH5y8mxkAmSGJx8G0nplcfrq6V4CHcrW7qp_veVrGUDJWHRVmaUCA1GIfPOpVbqGp9A1kTJEvelqPBjIOgzxGnJ0kdaN_GQswwp7yq0zLFsw/s1920/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK2gIDRtmbAb7GGt9RO_3nLhUpKKKvzQiRPvvGmBXcBQyimyuW8xtKkyFh0hA1UGfAj4mlriP75gEM6GKH5y8mxkAmSGJx8G0nplcfrq6V4CHcrW7qp_veVrGUDJWHRVmaUCA1GIfPOpVbqGp9A1kTJEvelqPBjIOgzxGnJ0kdaN_GQswwp7yq0zLFsw/w640-h360/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div></div><p class="MsoNormal">“Precisely!” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Ok, that still doesn’t explain why she was…ripped from my
head in the first place,” Victoria said. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Excuse me, hi, can you people stop talking about me like
I’m not sitting three feet away? I’m not someone’s memory. I’m an actual
living, breathing, person. All this talk about demons and spells and whatever
is absurd. You’re all crazy if you think magic is real.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It is real,” Mike said, slowing his pace as he circled
around the couch to sit beside his confused partner. “Vik, you’re a
witch and you have magic.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Alright, you know what? I’m done. I
am going someplace where people know the difference between reality
and make believe which is obviously not here!” Victoria hopped up and Brad
quickly shut the door. <o:p></o:p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnhoOWByrZX9KYiioj05DIzdYNeDRlK078K0RhNunhJYgMKHWUTokyKnt1p3n1QQoRW6XBFgTzogEBdTC7nvpm8ikpeZCbLLoaKHEx7i7SnZpmOS4W6NHFxnJgJRdANvlAhhqphAgp-DrVzyxsMUoKItSgaX8QbTfo65yttZmKESwbs9S-SxmbWRl8g/s1920/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvnhoOWByrZX9KYiioj05DIzdYNeDRlK078K0RhNunhJYgMKHWUTokyKnt1p3n1QQoRW6XBFgTzogEBdTC7nvpm8ikpeZCbLLoaKHEx7i7SnZpmOS4W6NHFxnJgJRdANvlAhhqphAgp-DrVzyxsMUoKItSgaX8QbTfo65yttZmKESwbs9S-SxmbWRl8g/w640-h360/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsXSEUcHKP77RqALSfShnjA1E1Hr97kwfRksrlydGqAd_ltHob_zURLBU8YC_587LYKTVfMtJb0vlWFbf8Dw344BPEHtWov4vkcRZPTUHKonWA7gCDh7R2WqUOi7rD0I2o8nn7FwVjJuDVn8yqA2SMYYzNrXMHtijgfgB91B1F4o5V9pyK7WF_78yQA/s1920/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIsXSEUcHKP77RqALSfShnjA1E1Hr97kwfRksrlydGqAd_ltHob_zURLBU8YC_587LYKTVfMtJb0vlWFbf8Dw344BPEHtWov4vkcRZPTUHKonWA7gCDh7R2WqUOi7rD0I2o8nn7FwVjJuDVn8yqA2SMYYzNrXMHtijgfgB91B1F4o5V9pyK7WF_78yQA/w640-h360/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYcnO-cluO3F5Zo7zQWEKi0hFjwiPM5pUhRyQ1eF7Qmc5k1fVwAPh_7c-mne29wvNH6vzR472452YlkrM1-Y82cU5IWgMoIrJyK7brCprx_tOIGDRYznswbYaVFl2an_nNJ5exNyENh6cvUWx-JKIdBBY2YkEvKFnjjGecgid6j9HL6xF_sVMWhAoNA/s1920/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYcnO-cluO3F5Zo7zQWEKi0hFjwiPM5pUhRyQ1eF7Qmc5k1fVwAPh_7c-mne29wvNH6vzR472452YlkrM1-Y82cU5IWgMoIrJyK7brCprx_tOIGDRYznswbYaVFl2an_nNJ5exNyENh6cvUWx-JKIdBBY2YkEvKFnjjGecgid6j9HL6xF_sVMWhAoNA/w640-h360/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">“I’m afraid I cannot let you leave.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You’re really gonna try this?” she asked and
glanced back toward Mike. “I will arrest you for false imprisonment if you
don’t get out of my way right now.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Good luck with that,” Victoria said, also standing and
taking a step forward. “I’m not—we’re not cops anymore.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What? Now I KNOW you’re messing with me. Being a cop is all
I’ve ever been—all I’ve ever wanted.” She touched her head as a tiny ache
started behind her eyes. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Are you alright, my dear?” Brad reached out to touch her
and as he did, Victoria threw him back against the wall with the flick of her
wrist. </p><p class="MsoNormal">“BRAD!” Victoria shouted and rushed forward to check on
him. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">“I—I didn’t mean…it was an accident.” Without another word,
Victoria shot through the door and out to the street. <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">
</p><p class="MsoNormal">“Derrick, stop her!” Victoria shouted as she helped Brad to
his feet. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5h-pPnFV4TYBhgJpGRKgydYR5EQ_-GfWd8GetCGTVuuIZ5GUC5M3a1lE2BXW3aFGGl26ZngTuhm5E5RW1HU66EZ6UaMOQeM2uhLy2Tn4a1IPG2rHB3gT6ddQpwJ4DTf5oKnqO5Car8kGCVn0uLMQi72n3PRPO4dpHD_vPfLWJzpIM9ikGWxv7FoE8Q/s1920/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5h-pPnFV4TYBhgJpGRKgydYR5EQ_-GfWd8GetCGTVuuIZ5GUC5M3a1lE2BXW3aFGGl26ZngTuhm5E5RW1HU66EZ6UaMOQeM2uhLy2Tn4a1IPG2rHB3gT6ddQpwJ4DTf5oKnqO5Car8kGCVn0uLMQi72n3PRPO4dpHD_vPfLWJzpIM9ikGWxv7FoE8Q/w640-h360/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Rushing after her, Derrick headed down the sidewalk,
shouting for the frightened woman to stop. He caught up as she attempted to hail
a taxi but, before he could utter a word to get her to stop, Victoria again
threw her hands up, tossing Derrick back into a large tree. A small branch
pierced through his chest and Victoria gasped as she watched the front of his
shirt turn red with blood.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggOINdSS4DqlEMNXDV_o5bM47YN8yVHg8rm4K_J16hjiLmJhVZIT9nimffqPOC1shS23atZAjsW-GGB6ECUfkWj3H-r_4lLr5_McnfPfdryOqrmlmvL4_SHPxN7Nt-885kYmS9TuL_3AnBdHUbCEcc05cbWdEnQwM8d9YDphyA1lRKur3Id2RMLz4Kg/s1920/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgggOINdSS4DqlEMNXDV_o5bM47YN8yVHg8rm4K_J16hjiLmJhVZIT9nimffqPOC1shS23atZAjsW-GGB6ECUfkWj3H-r_4lLr5_McnfPfdryOqrmlmvL4_SHPxN7Nt-885kYmS9TuL_3AnBdHUbCEcc05cbWdEnQwM8d9YDphyA1lRKur3Id2RMLz4Kg/w640-h360/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Hopping into the taxi, she gave the driver instructions and
he watched as the car’s taillights disappeared from sight. Derrick groaned as
he tried to dislodge himself from the branch. Hurried footsteps pulled his
attention to the sidewalk and he saw Mike and Victoria appear from around the
corner. “NO!” Victoria shouted as she raced toward him. “Help me, Mike,” she
cried and pushed at the tree while her partner pulled the vampire down.
“Please, Derrick, not this again. Don’t die.” </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1f43LMi51UH87qNbwDSgsAjZBsqQgejsjuIp61aXfQLAulqvaCc7X5w-sA52zbTYqJffZaYoASI3Sui3WPBxRCA8HTaeC3EoB3061mkCo2J4fDOmon9ZzsUMuJZlxTJ_MOlnZJLWLgy1ti4qaXkUqpQyhj6evWXri-L-2RjPdde8c4kfXksRYdFO8xw/s1920/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1f43LMi51UH87qNbwDSgsAjZBsqQgejsjuIp61aXfQLAulqvaCc7X5w-sA52zbTYqJffZaYoASI3Sui3WPBxRCA8HTaeC3EoB3061mkCo2J4fDOmon9ZzsUMuJZlxTJ_MOlnZJLWLgy1ti4qaXkUqpQyhj6evWXri-L-2RjPdde8c4kfXksRYdFO8xw/w640-h360/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGkTUylQXxrBz_rH49Cx3kXF2WuWFf4tTPlNEylKYoFq-PKIP_a5VXrjZwJyF16sgr_lEig66TOz269Vvv1g5EFaGx1XbpXRNNtXJX16Ha5ZD2Ur3umVOP9eQemnOKiAULCnkz4VGrkveFHED0xgz44WtHwT1K3pLFlpjouAHDXuaDbdk3YeAYB5SSg/s1920/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGkTUylQXxrBz_rH49Cx3kXF2WuWFf4tTPlNEylKYoFq-PKIP_a5VXrjZwJyF16sgr_lEig66TOz269Vvv1g5EFaGx1XbpXRNNtXJX16Ha5ZD2Ur3umVOP9eQemnOKiAULCnkz4VGrkveFHED0xgz44WtHwT1K3pLFlpjouAHDXuaDbdk3YeAYB5SSg/w640-h360/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“I’m fine,” he groaned, rolling to the side to spit out a
mouthful of blood. “It missed my heart by a degree.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Jesus! That’s too close,” Victoria replied, placing her
hand over his heart. “I’m sorry.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s ok. Baby, I’m fine, I promise,” he moaned and sat
upright. “That’s a little more than I can say for your other half.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Where is she?” Mike asked, taking a look around.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“She jumped into a cab. I have no idea where she went.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Home.” Victoria said.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, we need to get there and find her soon. She’s alone
with no idea about her powers and based on the wallop she packs; I don’t see
things ending well.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJTMlrt0CTWtjXAPKfFEg8qF3SKaC1k_JQ6UnKioS5E-Fnya2FJn7gVGpc8LlxFMJDVsaN4nE4hvmH34DniUIdVAj-DToyUW8lMz8Lp17DADnGpVE4PdiNMi_x02zWxOZuHgKcbyhKyAEhgRFDENCTTJCY1HH8xcV7zs2shEp1trdeiNwbkIJcy-Ldw/s1920/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisJTMlrt0CTWtjXAPKfFEg8qF3SKaC1k_JQ6UnKioS5E-Fnya2FJn7gVGpc8LlxFMJDVsaN4nE4hvmH34DniUIdVAj-DToyUW8lMz8Lp17DADnGpVE4PdiNMi_x02zWxOZuHgKcbyhKyAEhgRFDENCTTJCY1HH8xcV7zs2shEp1trdeiNwbkIJcy-Ldw/w640-h360/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOuu_49V0mP_N_eVHQZbdLOBBxhRAPSQfUOytdJISYlp2gK2JRaNOQTGbLIIJ4zsi0bE-WgabFcVvv6hYy-NweB61-oASoTc6KE_EtJx5odM0CXIVL2bbbIrNfolD1x8EhcELJat9UQzuvqiDVPUv6XGiGs58MqsRQwqTx3atS-zDxjPkQ7dl_x62Yg/s1920/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfOuu_49V0mP_N_eVHQZbdLOBBxhRAPSQfUOytdJISYlp2gK2JRaNOQTGbLIIJ4zsi0bE-WgabFcVvv6hYy-NweB61-oASoTc6KE_EtJx5odM0CXIVL2bbbIrNfolD1x8EhcELJat9UQzuvqiDVPUv6XGiGs58MqsRQwqTx3atS-zDxjPkQ7dl_x62Yg/w640-h360/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Victoria walked up the front stoop to her door and a
familiar figure moved around the garage, heading toward her. “Cole?” she smiled
and ran forward.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Hey, Vik, I was…” his words were cut short as her lips came
crashing into his. Without a second thought, Cole fitted his mouth to hers and
moaned against her lips, pulling her deeper against his chest as her hands slid
up his neck and into his hair. Taking long, passionate kisses, he greedily drew
in the honeysuckle taste of her, making her head swim as his tongue slipped
into her mouth and he felt the soft return of hers. Victoria welcomed the
exploration of his tongue as he deepened the kiss. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cole savored and consumed her with a kiss more aggressive
than any he’d given her before. Victoria could feel the bulge in his pants as
she pressed herself closer and held him tighter, hoping her bad dream would
soon come to an end. “Whoa, whoa, whoa,” Cole sighed, pushing her away and
watching as her eyelids hung low with desire. “What’s going on with you, Vik?” </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDG8pc0M8OJSn15mQFp957TKn9xZb3nXhQ0N_xqnf5oGVSo-lLCj7wUPO_0GYsi-cvGZgLQIhz5y9u0K5NF41hvdd3NKym3AWaAJ7cv6O6K1ryPK9hTACXUyeKYMZBcmspa6hnSra72YPvMNVjbBtgTXSeHOWvV7QdkxGiqqzPbsOLOG8HY7uB9tZiA/s1920/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDG8pc0M8OJSn15mQFp957TKn9xZb3nXhQ0N_xqnf5oGVSo-lLCj7wUPO_0GYsi-cvGZgLQIhz5y9u0K5NF41hvdd3NKym3AWaAJ7cv6O6K1ryPK9hTACXUyeKYMZBcmspa6hnSra72YPvMNVjbBtgTXSeHOWvV7QdkxGiqqzPbsOLOG8HY7uB9tZiA/w640-h360/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“Nothing is going on, Cole. I’m just happy to see you. I’ve
been having a very weird and fucked up day and now I just want to go inside and
fall into bed with you. Is that too much to ask for?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, but I mean what about Derrick?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What? How do you know about—it just happened. Cole, it was
an accident. I didn’t mean…” She grew quiet and shook her head. “There’s no way
you know.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Vik, what are you talking about?” He slipped his hand
around her waist and pulled her into him. “Talk to me. I can’t help unless I know
what’s going on.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I killed him. He was chasing me and I was scared and I
somehow threw him and he landed…there was so much blood, Cole. He’s dead. I
killed him but, I don’t know how.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait a minute, killed who? Who’s dead?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Derrick!” Cole felt his breath seize in his chest and he
held Victoria as she continued sobbing, recounting the details for him. “I need
to call the police.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The police? What? Why would you do that?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Because he’s dead, Cole! They need to know what I’ve done.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA-B153uhVaea5VJl6HiLDDpTRf97ConLYsU7ExybSrIG4zRnmLPCrRGjuwq2HeC1uoLULxnB-hziabbJpnLH1kfSVjQCHB_g21Q2OzXxhJK7aLOSR0TJdt019VzeX4FBMpjDQXUMe4HSdsjWqMKKIjkDc8QTb35NrarK1xhHfb9S68dJQQNNtAldQg/s1920/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA-B153uhVaea5VJl6HiLDDpTRf97ConLYsU7ExybSrIG4zRnmLPCrRGjuwq2HeC1uoLULxnB-hziabbJpnLH1kfSVjQCHB_g21Q2OzXxhJK7aLOSR0TJdt019VzeX4FBMpjDQXUMe4HSdsjWqMKKIjkDc8QTb35NrarK1xhHfb9S68dJQQNNtAldQg/w640-h360/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“Vik, I doubt the police would be equipped to handle…I mean
what normally happens to—you know when they are killed?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You know—vampires.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Cole, what are you talking about? You’re starting to sound
like them.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Them?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Please, don’t tell me they got to you too.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Got to me? Who got what? Vik…”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Stay away from me,” she shouted and rushed for her door. As
she opened it, Hades charged her, his big slobbering tongue jutting from the
corner of his mouth and she jumped back screaming, slamming the door shut. “I
don’t understand. I don’t know what’s going on. Cole, please help me.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s ok, Vik. You’re ok. Come on, I’ll take you back to my
place,” he said, wrapping her against him and leading her toward his car.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3f0bzYouySrwlAptf0nSa-siLPwWqPPFMK014ZGmzU3BXdDyWHYJnLB8yxwAFCNqknUzbO0GiL1CR1bWq-tjxxMKfYtyQq626MO2nOgzSGKIHljNeJ0uqjZARvDLqrx6LGGZ2LKIJwo07yltmWojmHCBsOJZW4E4NqvxtSekUBGw9ysuUs6G5hMm_A/s1920/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx3f0bzYouySrwlAptf0nSa-siLPwWqPPFMK014ZGmzU3BXdDyWHYJnLB8yxwAFCNqknUzbO0GiL1CR1bWq-tjxxMKfYtyQq626MO2nOgzSGKIHljNeJ0uqjZARvDLqrx6LGGZ2LKIJwo07yltmWojmHCBsOJZW4E4NqvxtSekUBGw9ysuUs6G5hMm_A/w640-h360/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“She’s not here,” Mike said, descending the stairs.</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“No,” Derrick replied, pulling on a jacket after having
changed his shirt. “But someone else was.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Is that good or bad?” Victoria asked, watching Derrick
follow a path around the back of the house.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t know,” Derrick sighed. “Call Cole.”</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgun8QC-b1Ab3ImoulidLBPhcIs_-IpUVHAN4QjJ-ea1xdpRb3_JyETJVZdOkG9pV30XAA0LvS7Yu3AJEsXNYEcowaRVVjK3ie-mFAVnUC1RXR2bpysMji39be5oUCh7OAaVUF3amJN4X5GNTnZOQHUZCYLa6ZUiXK3eu_xLx2OeQLeAA40kxywBr1zRA/s1920/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgun8QC-b1Ab3ImoulidLBPhcIs_-IpUVHAN4QjJ-ea1xdpRb3_JyETJVZdOkG9pV30XAA0LvS7Yu3AJEsXNYEcowaRVVjK3ie-mFAVnUC1RXR2bpysMji39be5oUCh7OAaVUF3amJN4X5GNTnZOQHUZCYLa6ZUiXK3eu_xLx2OeQLeAA40kxywBr1zRA/w640-h360/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“Cole?” Derrick nodded and Victoria did as told. The phone
rang three times before the federal agent finally answered. “Cole, hey, it’s…”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“<i>Victoria?</i>”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, it’s me and I have sort of a weird question to ask.
Um…have you seen me today?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"> “<i>Yes, you’re asleep in my bed right now. How are you calling me…holy
shit, Vik? Please tell me I didn’t just invite another vampire into my house.
Geez, these fucking things need to start wearing signs.</i>”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“No, Cole, she’s not a vampire, she’s me.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“<i>Wait, what?</i>”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It was a spell or something, I don’t know but, it went
wrong and now I’m kinda two people.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“<i>Oh yeah, sure. Hate
when that happens.</i>”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Right?” Victoria laughed. “Listen, I need you to keep
her…me safe. We’ll be right over.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAwSz50yWVGN0v1gKr0xBl-Ym1dlR6qt9auuID5fB7U0X24EAkF0sG-Ii7hFg8nZ1grySU1JYoEGkbwjR5RnIbe4_9o3vPSCPvMa9ZA5etUyytg274Wbt43lG56MlZ3al7GE-Ou3zqL8bHopTSgQZIjKRBZCa5UElTF6TIE_O7dTDBJE_Anl4DySkBg/s1920/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAwSz50yWVGN0v1gKr0xBl-Ym1dlR6qt9auuID5fB7U0X24EAkF0sG-Ii7hFg8nZ1grySU1JYoEGkbwjR5RnIbe4_9o3vPSCPvMa9ZA5etUyytg274Wbt43lG56MlZ3al7GE-Ou3zqL8bHopTSgQZIjKRBZCa5UElTF6TIE_O7dTDBJE_Anl4DySkBg/w640-h360/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlhEJaY00dO_i1ehLxX2gYxxF3mKoJG6t52CWU66c5hS5GrMVIpEtIsCMB5Wmmm2HN_uOwtc3wr0SxlAJcSZcLeqKyEc2P99R_N1aZw_KQQvA7C74RADjS5gBfLk4_xFTo0kVA3vs8i3QdPuVKS0IdtrqhK0RCHWJPk-YXPq6baBMrgsh5J77jVRKEw/s1920/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxlhEJaY00dO_i1ehLxX2gYxxF3mKoJG6t52CWU66c5hS5GrMVIpEtIsCMB5Wmmm2HN_uOwtc3wr0SxlAJcSZcLeqKyEc2P99R_N1aZw_KQQvA7C74RADjS5gBfLk4_xFTo0kVA3vs8i3QdPuVKS0IdtrqhK0RCHWJPk-YXPq6baBMrgsh5J77jVRKEw/w640-h360/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal">They made the twenty-minute drive in just under ten but,
upon entering Cole’s apartment received news they weren’t expecting. “How long
ago?” Derrick asked, hearing that Victoria had again evaded them.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t know. I was talking to Vik and I think she heard me
and while my back was turned, she took off. What the hell is going on?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The Victoria that was here was from a past…well she is a
past Victoria. She has no knowledge of magic or vampires or even that she and I
are together which explains why she turned to you. We need to find her before…”
Derrick was stopped midsentence as a bloodcurdling scream erupted from beside
him.</p></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdOKExPMnhf4NdzA5tbn2tl4HbCKy1EdU1KUJ5zS8MbkdUEQudNhsrf7zHIJxPXbHtGf93x2jbA9bKFRpuYe9YKONYnwPe1QQzKv8htL68O8enK_Dp6orWtTw1NNULq5AF4XDwburcfIY_GhFM-tUdKIqZC5ppC8Cbnyk9DtcqeQreMYpZ2d2nDxWow/s1920/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEdOKExPMnhf4NdzA5tbn2tl4HbCKy1EdU1KUJ5zS8MbkdUEQudNhsrf7zHIJxPXbHtGf93x2jbA9bKFRpuYe9YKONYnwPe1QQzKv8htL68O8enK_Dp6orWtTw1NNULq5AF4XDwburcfIY_GhFM-tUdKIqZC5ppC8Cbnyk9DtcqeQreMYpZ2d2nDxWow/w640-h360/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Victoria fell back against the wall as a large gash was
carved into her arm. “I think we’re too late,” she said, looking at the nasty
mark on her forearm. “She’s in danger.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“And from the looks of that wound, whatever did that isn’t
human,” Derrick said. Victoria again screamed as a matching cut was sliced into
her other arm. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Victoria tried to heal herself, but the injuries remained.
“We need to find her…now!” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Is there like a locator spell you can try?” Mike asked.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Victoria closed her eyes and concentrated. Her mind was numb
and every time she attempted a spell, her hands sparked and fizzled. “My magic,
I can’t cast anything,” she said in shock as she tried to summon the simplest
of spells. “How is that possible? My other self was able to use her powers but,
I can’t?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The split,” Derrick started. “She must have received the
magic when it happened.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTZz12H1sKziIzj_Fx4Gp_fZCeIFQA9H04uQBLNgOFheyE3URP2F8y1N4ZnBh1hdMRSW39gE5sFQnA0c3COHRw5Al6Pd98kcLrbkIoSyGJEfbAHboHV2lWwmYwBJouQLgHuj_LZC7uhVuag0eC80pu0uJrkNjV91AN4ZpCSMt3ngRPJpwNUpi1Gs9kQ/s1920/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNTZz12H1sKziIzj_Fx4Gp_fZCeIFQA9H04uQBLNgOFheyE3URP2F8y1N4ZnBh1hdMRSW39gE5sFQnA0c3COHRw5Al6Pd98kcLrbkIoSyGJEfbAHboHV2lWwmYwBJouQLgHuj_LZC7uhVuag0eC80pu0uJrkNjV91AN4ZpCSMt3ngRPJpwNUpi1Gs9kQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Wait, you’re saying a witch, who has no idea she’s a witch,
has all of Victoria’s powers and a healthy dose of paranoia and anger and is
out on the street somewhere alone with no idea how to use any of it?” Cole
replied, rubbing his hand across the back of his neck. “Shit. Talk about a
loose cannon.”</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You’re right,” Victoria said, taking a deep breath as a
third wound appeared on her stomach. “All except the alone part. Something’s
got her and that something is trying to kill her. I don’t think I have to say
what happens if they succeed?” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“So, what are we going to do?” Mike asked.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The only thing we can do. Get another witch to find her,”
Victoria answered.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Do you really think she’d be willing to help?” he again
inquired. “Even when she wanted to have that heart-to-heart, she was not being
forthcoming.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“No, but I wasn’t talking about my mom. It’s time we go see
Nana.”</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9L3pwJ-bNgBIcMjjbOo1QzLNWWff7bPG3O-EqQ5R21BzmgyT598tDVe9j3v3tKxohcPeBIHwh1iGlL_LvnVbPXj4h5MknsuoGXGE0dEnrva4ipw7fuK5XNFyTwEzFsDF8b-iUKOiPHAMlO6Xo2JsbaI8PUT3yEKjaqAmvAVbQhNfSbaC984quY7aMBA/s1920/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9L3pwJ-bNgBIcMjjbOo1QzLNWWff7bPG3O-EqQ5R21BzmgyT598tDVe9j3v3tKxohcPeBIHwh1iGlL_LvnVbPXj4h5MknsuoGXGE0dEnrva4ipw7fuK5XNFyTwEzFsDF8b-iUKOiPHAMlO6Xo2JsbaI8PUT3yEKjaqAmvAVbQhNfSbaC984quY7aMBA/w640-h360/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Piling into Cole’s SUV, the group made the trip to Danbury
Ridge. Loretta was waiting on her front porch as the truck pulled into her
driveway. She waved at her granddaughter but, Victoria was not in the mood for
pleasantries. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Still, Loretta made it clear she did not want to speak in
the presence of strangers. And after brief introductions of Mike and Cole, the
group took seats in the living room as Loretta and Victoria headed to her magic
room to work on a summoning spell. “Is it done?” Mike asked, seeing the two
women descend the staircase.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF99mwfM-w3PivtV8VlreALlox18ThjhmgbTkSKh0GSMc6Cb2DHRFa223AD0xJ332rHSmHZBlASrZkgT5Inj-dcIK1hR4cTY4gATezSroMfvgeWtSzh66t5tkQ95ua6-kidUhmEZnRJs-RJ-dNTomjsoWchrRgvXW2Y8pWIApGnmMBkiIruV0OZQ_cg/s1920/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDF99mwfM-w3PivtV8VlreALlox18ThjhmgbTkSKh0GSMc6Cb2DHRFa223AD0xJ332rHSmHZBlASrZkgT5Inj-dcIK1hR4cTY4gATezSroMfvgeWtSzh66t5tkQ95ua6-kidUhmEZnRJs-RJ-dNTomjsoWchrRgvXW2Y8pWIApGnmMBkiIruV0OZQ_cg/w640-h360/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“Yes and no, and that’s what I wanted to talk to everyone
about. Victoria’s told me that her other half may be in serious danger. We
don’t know where she is or what type of creature is holding her captive. When
the spell is completed, we will all be teleported to wherever she is. As you’ve
probably come to learn from my oversharing grandchild, there are a multitude of
different types of supernatural beings, each with their own unique abilities. I
want you to all know that before you agree to come with us. We may be placed in
an extremely dangerous situation.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t care what it is,” Mike said standing. “Victoria’s
my partner and I’ve already made the oath to protect her with my life. I’m in.
No matter where it takes me.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What Mike said. Besides, I never leave the house without my
sidearm and spare,” Cole added as he too stood and patted his hip holster.
“Most creatures can be shot, right?” Victoria nodded and he grinned.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You already know where I stand,” Derrick said, taking
Victoria’s hand as he met her eyes. “Let’s do this.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFdSLTuosI_S-eSVZ0YFVtRB-bAWu5MzwqCWghV5T4hsXFezAZo5moD9AwgutxVrKKi-3WmYHogVKHcfzJpy3vHpx_ycfTE9vQT1DxZjUhLixFMhY0lonMu0I7cRl7AiFWORonO20UmagjR5iWiMFEdzDtTY-VVR4gugXATF0suF6SbUX98HMAQ_kCQ/s1920/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdFdSLTuosI_S-eSVZ0YFVtRB-bAWu5MzwqCWghV5T4hsXFezAZo5moD9AwgutxVrKKi-3WmYHogVKHcfzJpy3vHpx_ycfTE9vQT1DxZjUhLixFMhY0lonMu0I7cRl7AiFWORonO20UmagjR5iWiMFEdzDtTY-VVR4gugXATF0suF6SbUX98HMAQ_kCQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieR0JvYOUX43YajmT00bqc-IRdQVfb_oBf4RWoXe505LwVhXLj5RGhv4AY0jZCP35_N5FKRdt_wYx0Ci5K5uv2t1KKMKcpW23lv0v-HJvs5ZK0ohlQiJPLr9xuV8kbZZshTamsilAutlE9TFymuQb-DrHYGSFAsbFOoLkV4LN4jDQmxZN0FnqRyfoHBQ/s1920/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieR0JvYOUX43YajmT00bqc-IRdQVfb_oBf4RWoXe505LwVhXLj5RGhv4AY0jZCP35_N5FKRdt_wYx0Ci5K5uv2t1KKMKcpW23lv0v-HJvs5ZK0ohlQiJPLr9xuV8kbZZshTamsilAutlE9TFymuQb-DrHYGSFAsbFOoLkV4LN4jDQmxZN0FnqRyfoHBQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Loretta led them to her magic room and had everyone hold hands. She closed her eyes as
she began to chant. Colorful lights and sparkles danced around her as an orb began to grow from between her hands. The longer she chanted, the larger it grew until it consumed the room, shading everything in a purple hue. The room shook and Mike and Cole looked around nervously as
the scene shifted and they were transported to a storehouse at the same wharf
from before.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSKKK6VN4724cJBecZxc5tPsFYhDdQT66WsObPw6wl6iJzJmwD7wld16UCktx1hZ9fDnj2dgduX7uZR1eAGz9CYZRwODBripFvJzdM5h5ll43cJKxuPY_6I0QA4KqPSvn3m9pXYKgW6LaDd9SASBhR_Hy3Owdz4ZFokKIwKCSK6rEZf2SZ0waibh7Xg/s1920/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwSKKK6VN4724cJBecZxc5tPsFYhDdQT66WsObPw6wl6iJzJmwD7wld16UCktx1hZ9fDnj2dgduX7uZR1eAGz9CYZRwODBripFvJzdM5h5ll43cJKxuPY_6I0QA4KqPSvn3m9pXYKgW6LaDd9SASBhR_Hy3Owdz4ZFokKIwKCSK6rEZf2SZ0waibh7Xg/w640-h360/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Victoria was chained to a wall while a werewolf stood guard.
There was a satyr posted at the door and still three more near the windows
and back entrance. The smell of rot hung thick and Cole retched once before he
got his gag reflex in check. There were puddles of sulfur throughout the
building which indicated these beings were from the underworld. It also made
both Mike and Derrick alert to the fact their target may also be on scene.</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t understand. How did this guy get all of these
different supernatural creatures to work together?” Loretta asked, looking
toward at least four different types who were all known enemies of one another.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxr-gxdKi-p9YqDbZ-sTqIWRbXfJcJ1Hi_-ba_Br6yKUJTbfn15S5EWVq1Z3tMM-fVQbmzXoArn4SaQNIfmBqSfBzrDowR8Gv8ja8gRlxyzDhldGeY6eC0pbLvM6EfZzWoZ2w7FFZXZPvFfqbh7Q9Nw3uSa6nEc32Z9tEfjNiXpXQh5IHRMIiHnu5ZAQ/s1920/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxr-gxdKi-p9YqDbZ-sTqIWRbXfJcJ1Hi_-ba_Br6yKUJTbfn15S5EWVq1Z3tMM-fVQbmzXoArn4SaQNIfmBqSfBzrDowR8Gv8ja8gRlxyzDhldGeY6eC0pbLvM6EfZzWoZ2w7FFZXZPvFfqbh7Q9Nw3uSa6nEc32Z9tEfjNiXpXQh5IHRMIiHnu5ZAQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Let’s worry about that later, right now the important thing
is to free Victoria’s other half,” Derrick replied.</div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“How do you want to handle this?” Victoria asked, feeling
vulnerable to attack without her magic. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I’ll get to your other half,” Derrick said. “Mike and Cole
will keep me covered. Wendigo and satyr are part human so the bullets will
do damage, maybe even kill them. Same with demons; aim for vitals. I’ll handle the wolves. They’re a bit trickier. Victoria, you stay here. With your powers
gone, I don’t want to put you anymore in harm’s way.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Magic or not I am trained to use a firearm,” Victoria said. “I can help.” </p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You’re already hurt and anything could happen. I don’t want
to risk it. Not this time. Please, for once just listen to me. Hang back. Let
us handle this.” Victoria sighed, but didn’t argue. Cole and Mike readied their
weapons and moved to opposite ends of the wall beside them, watching for
movement. Sensing her apprehension, Loretta stood next to Victoria, prepared to
handle anything that came their way.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzy2TZyl-h7QEdWjsX8rEA7hip7lyR7zQIWObh_A4ezc4RQO9p1LHjUEqAbt7829qarcNxuxOQc48Uc30XlpxAgP1Nyj3Ymk6wC_5KoNo0VZUOvz9wMpAM1sARoSZvj68hohJuX2H9HKYVUUierzqUg8y4S2T6sZDPFlBYWEuQrDE4y6dNOChmJnHmw/s1920/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLzy2TZyl-h7QEdWjsX8rEA7hip7lyR7zQIWObh_A4ezc4RQO9p1LHjUEqAbt7829qarcNxuxOQc48Uc30XlpxAgP1Nyj3Ymk6wC_5KoNo0VZUOvz9wMpAM1sARoSZvj68hohJuX2H9HKYVUUierzqUg8y4S2T6sZDPFlBYWEuQrDE4y6dNOChmJnHmw/w640-h360/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1eHFA-SW0QUmOT5VhaEcIbCXxADGaW7R4H4xmNmZslxkGe7-tO9nzCuwxVrPKQsMhlXi4xL5zmFZpR9JSbunhTH6MSXahxUjb5tBwIfkA5arSRATuAbSpLJOtomzcqptBxs4mfwfXRqKJipM82H2yg7sAsWlQV_fOLcw1y9dpSCJdmOGDQUEpl0qbw/s1920/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN1eHFA-SW0QUmOT5VhaEcIbCXxADGaW7R4H4xmNmZslxkGe7-tO9nzCuwxVrPKQsMhlXi4xL5zmFZpR9JSbunhTH6MSXahxUjb5tBwIfkA5arSRATuAbSpLJOtomzcqptBxs4mfwfXRqKJipM82H2yg7sAsWlQV_fOLcw1y9dpSCJdmOGDQUEpl0qbw/w640-h360/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Derrick crept forward, catching the first guard unaware. He
snapped the Troll’s neck and let its body slip to the ground. Victoria saw him
then. Her eyes widened in relief and she shouted for him to help her but, the
sound caused the other demons to take notice and instantly the fiends descended
upon the group’s location.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cole fired at the demon rushing toward him. The bullet
glanced off its shoulder, however, the second hit the creature center mass. It
fell, landing in a large green puddle and Cole turned his attention to the
others. Mike had also taken one out of commission. The demon made a splatter
against the back wall but, its friends were steadily closing in. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“We need to think of something fast. There’s a ton of them
and only two of us,” Cole shouted over his shoulder to Mike. Suddenly, a bright
beam of light zoomed overhead and the approaching demons were all thrown back
in a flash of fire. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cole looked back toward the source and saw the embers
flicker and fizzle in Loretta’s hands. “Wow. That was incredible.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Head’s up,” Mike said, “We’re not done yet.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaWGDMB6amy3dL2gxOe2ol_Oy7snUhJSYJOPJC7f3tHfTTw90kWjd6an1jfaOO7hTUtDQ51USMqF03czlmgP0AF4lze3FRuoHLNR7PzDJkduwJswflUXa_1DUBVeuoH2Cnd-MnNOYXiXuVBtSysQtP6S70kZED36lvacQTgBH5b_mHtac2dNfRx3w1w/s1920/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaWGDMB6amy3dL2gxOe2ol_Oy7snUhJSYJOPJC7f3tHfTTw90kWjd6an1jfaOO7hTUtDQ51USMqF03czlmgP0AF4lze3FRuoHLNR7PzDJkduwJswflUXa_1DUBVeuoH2Cnd-MnNOYXiXuVBtSysQtP6S70kZED36lvacQTgBH5b_mHtac2dNfRx3w1w/w640-h360/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">Derrick rushed forward, landing on a stack of pallets just
in front of Victoria. As he moved toward her, a high-pitched screeching sound
stopped him dead in his tracks and he covered his ears as he tried to stay on
his feet. Falling to his knees, Derrick clenched his head in pain as blood
trickled out of both ears.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Doubled over in pain as the spirit moved closer, it hovered
above him as it continued its death wail. The longer it howled the more the banshee
corporealized. Once her body was fully physical, a single shot rang out and a
line of blood crawled down the wound in her forehead. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Looking over his shoulder, Derrick found Victoria standing
near the entrance with her gun aimed toward them. He nodded then returned his
attention to her other self. “Let’s get you out of here.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI81307v4k0LqBiOUwAJO-x8zGXB9c7yV-jf_jJZLhySseCPZU-hGNq0IDJ6bReDSJMn0aftjED1-PMRK8eC-VAHTr_kJ4txdbz2neFav8NpitCjmLO4QXea0oKF3sgD2SOa4uHWJmomdsRTH_pCevYGfxYKt48KrOu8rgZ3kLnPISqqXGrGdF_Xq3Jg/s1920/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI81307v4k0LqBiOUwAJO-x8zGXB9c7yV-jf_jJZLhySseCPZU-hGNq0IDJ6bReDSJMn0aftjED1-PMRK8eC-VAHTr_kJ4txdbz2neFav8NpitCjmLO4QXea0oKF3sgD2SOa4uHWJmomdsRTH_pCevYGfxYKt48KrOu8rgZ3kLnPISqqXGrGdF_Xq3Jg/w640-h360/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwPzFFzFSmhIMLZOne8TKM92OTVOVJcr4B8aFp7yKIbe6jK3reAlxIjC0iE8E5DGNobCvSBeMFZptiJUgmNjsd3D1f_8ZqHrO5FjJfK0EFeI3Ak6IjFcZdwtbgb9NmPprWi7vHbBbgDSu4KPRunfGZ1SLJpB6bGQRgJjiIxUZbtvyQXBsy9Txq-WpoA/s1920/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwPzFFzFSmhIMLZOne8TKM92OTVOVJcr4B8aFp7yKIbe6jK3reAlxIjC0iE8E5DGNobCvSBeMFZptiJUgmNjsd3D1f_8ZqHrO5FjJfK0EFeI3Ak6IjFcZdwtbgb9NmPprWi7vHbBbgDSu4KPRunfGZ1SLJpB6bGQRgJjiIxUZbtvyQXBsy9Txq-WpoA/w640-h360/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“Please!” she agreed, holding her head up to look at him. The duo rushed toward the others. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Cole and Mike provided cover as Loretta began conjuring. A
dark figured jumped between them, separating the Victorias from the group.
Derrick moved in front of Loretta, his eyes bearing down on the cloaked man.
“Cassatt?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait, Derrick, you know him?” Victoria asked.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah. He’s an Elder Vampire.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You mean like Julian and Emery?”<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah. In fact, he used to work with them. The three of them
were tasked with guarding the Destroyer’s location. Rumor has it you died; killed
during a raid by the Cult of the Damned.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQBpan-e0NORzkS078vGYFJi8uD-Uh8p97CMiWbzst3uRz-wX-ZdalC1is-luT9O8wkedLQb1czOnezmBxFRfa1OofPy3s_twCO5KA1VEZ3LytkL9uAgJ_Z_AG8KtkvdEiOeynR8dRPIVqgk7VgO62gQbzBjVPLkyc_ZMxrXafHn5HqsTxMH3m7RqFQ/s1920/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDQBpan-e0NORzkS078vGYFJi8uD-Uh8p97CMiWbzst3uRz-wX-ZdalC1is-luT9O8wkedLQb1czOnezmBxFRfa1OofPy3s_twCO5KA1VEZ3LytkL9uAgJ_Z_AG8KtkvdEiOeynR8dRPIVqgk7VgO62gQbzBjVPLkyc_ZMxrXafHn5HqsTxMH3m7RqFQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">“You shouldn’t believe everything you hear.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait a second,” Victoria said, taking a step back as the
man turned to address her. “You’re him, aren’t you? The person that’s been
scooping up supes and murdering them?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Charles Cassatt, at your service,” he said, bowing elegantly
before beaming at her with his razor-sharp teeth and yellow eyes. “I have been
waiting for you, my Dear. You, Victoria, are to be my crowning achievement.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah? Well sorry to disappoint but, I’m not interested.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It wasn’t a request.” Cassatt reached out for Victoria but
before his hand connected with her, he was thrown back and away against the
wall.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Quickly now,” Loretta instructed. The Victorias hurried
toward the rest of the group and the senior witch resumed her chanting.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilRvYK0W3FvgvQSFNFIoH0IY-APx6wMNO_4FGDgMKGxMRuZgfzoJV9eFo1dfi_DEyCXozokNGRuWWTUU7JJsbhuOac9WH5YJP4VV5Bde4nfvIz2_E9d31qhI9WlOvUGMk-yPttxEQeUCy5miFruE2Ght6rnOn3J4cnZL7ASiclyRZuBDEJYDLiPGRCQ/s1920/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgilRvYK0W3FvgvQSFNFIoH0IY-APx6wMNO_4FGDgMKGxMRuZgfzoJV9eFo1dfi_DEyCXozokNGRuWWTUU7JJsbhuOac9WH5YJP4VV5Bde4nfvIz2_E9d31qhI9WlOvUGMk-yPttxEQeUCy5miFruE2Ght6rnOn3J4cnZL7ASiclyRZuBDEJYDLiPGRCQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">“Mmm, you pack quite the punch, witch,” Cassatt said,
getting to his feet. “Now, please, allow me to show you what I can do.”</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The room became darker as his head fell back. Large crates
swirled in a gust around them and the earth rumbled beneath them. “You have
magic?” Derrick asked in surprise. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“You don’t spend your days hunting your own kind without
siphoning a bit of their powers for yourself,” Cassatt answered before tossing
the floating items toward the group.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7KAYs1_uMIz2hdp7gsaTerPj70SgP_b1tO5-vfbZMcl2MutPb_sjjNUQxyd7q9nILiZx6oazMxEKuI5H_IAXs5M0riK2NoBkYBbgd45JjbU3zwbP7DJkHqdykTUajBSoq-YcS7XNoL0amNc0ralsLu1Mlfkcwj9ObxJpIQgbhEK55ugnOOkySxGq4g/s1920/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI7KAYs1_uMIz2hdp7gsaTerPj70SgP_b1tO5-vfbZMcl2MutPb_sjjNUQxyd7q9nILiZx6oazMxEKuI5H_IAXs5M0riK2NoBkYBbgd45JjbU3zwbP7DJkHqdykTUajBSoq-YcS7XNoL0amNc0ralsLu1Mlfkcwj9ObxJpIQgbhEK55ugnOOkySxGq4g/w640-h360/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-atHIT_1CzxpWrGJweRtlmdHfimhXWGtAyAs_OZxUeONtC4Gz_tcD2iedUprgBY3gWab_YM3oum-R8Z2QWSUjiBpH_leDGr6tbupE_95Kbg9hN4YSoED8LeOfHBdCVYycsO69UgwPsXNwD1rkPmeCgs3emwo1fd6Po1iUL6UZpLLkKamhzy61wuA1pQ/s1920/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-atHIT_1CzxpWrGJweRtlmdHfimhXWGtAyAs_OZxUeONtC4Gz_tcD2iedUprgBY3gWab_YM3oum-R8Z2QWSUjiBpH_leDGr6tbupE_95Kbg9hN4YSoED8LeOfHBdCVYycsO69UgwPsXNwD1rkPmeCgs3emwo1fd6Po1iUL6UZpLLkKamhzy61wuA1pQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><p class="MsoNormal">They all scattered, again interrupting Loretta’s
spellcasting. And as they tried to regain their bearings, Cassatt took the
opportunity to approach Victoria once more. However, Derrick was right on him,
tossing the man to the ground. “Over my dead body.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Finally, terms we agree upon,” Cassatt sneered.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Do your worst,” Derrick said as he prepared himself for the
attack. “If you’re lucky, you might slip unconscious for the last 5 minutes.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Before Cassatt could charge for Derrick, a brilliant light
filtered through the room as Loretta’s spell completed and the group was safely
transported back to her home.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFz59vEH8CYgiVSHEHnvHpK4xU88VADxbJSXv7A0t1WBQKanNuFejod8R1n8s-99iXfh-GkDntVRxO8vFlucLM6gCME-BY8ldK-NtZ4Q80uvEen9e4zd3Y6aIVz5fU728WN7D-PHZSoTiw8ZwnnKb7NiwThihZhQ2GRJozJLmJlyH-rlLClzTS2r31A/s1920/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFz59vEH8CYgiVSHEHnvHpK4xU88VADxbJSXv7A0t1WBQKanNuFejod8R1n8s-99iXfh-GkDntVRxO8vFlucLM6gCME-BY8ldK-NtZ4Q80uvEen9e4zd3Y6aIVz5fU728WN7D-PHZSoTiw8ZwnnKb7NiwThihZhQ2GRJozJLmJlyH-rlLClzTS2r31A/w640-h360/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcfV6Z3oy1IJBeom6RP0NWWSOGj8CKzd-HAlV9IlNCtz6LpUc7wB5CTL6lUXNdBKUYlP09n9zn8YPfmpPgg7c3YW4SaENrYFrYkGjuFR1W3KCvrOv5WJgkAl92S4ZiBAZc06FI-4q6PjGUkgTYdtJ-LpyihfwjXskYl9EmDtHUFEMuQio87mjVL8F8A/s1920/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrcfV6Z3oy1IJBeom6RP0NWWSOGj8CKzd-HAlV9IlNCtz6LpUc7wB5CTL6lUXNdBKUYlP09n9zn8YPfmpPgg7c3YW4SaENrYFrYkGjuFR1W3KCvrOv5WJgkAl92S4ZiBAZc06FI-4q6PjGUkgTYdtJ-LpyihfwjXskYl9EmDtHUFEMuQio87mjVL8F8A/w640-h360/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal">“Why the hell did you do that?” Derrick asked.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p><p>“Because none of us are prepared for that man. He has powers
we don’t know about and we can’t expect to defeat him by bashing our heads
against a wall. Besides, we have enough problems to deal with already,” Loretta
said, glancing at her duo granddaughters. “And first thing’s first.”</p>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-55867828607337308042022-07-03T13:37:00.005-04:002023-01-22T19:18:19.119-05:0068: Which Witch is which? – Pt. 3<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTYChidwGsLO_WNNQzDAhDeRBPsaMiZgQ3eSSNdhKCuC2_6xIVq8TSdBdPwWNRj6qHv6IhPcvW2gjaH8qpJw4EKfAw17f09u9GUwStM9KEGtXM74w7ADYSMWM7sUYxXUDO3t6O8Sr59TeWlmxof1V2y4K9buLqzabkfJH6vzHlEmyCh1XXbjT_EYPLKA=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhTYChidwGsLO_WNNQzDAhDeRBPsaMiZgQ3eSSNdhKCuC2_6xIVq8TSdBdPwWNRj6qHv6IhPcvW2gjaH8qpJw4EKfAw17f09u9GUwStM9KEGtXM74w7ADYSMWM7sUYxXUDO3t6O8Sr59TeWlmxof1V2y4K9buLqzabkfJH6vzHlEmyCh1XXbjT_EYPLKA=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtHHzob96GPjtCvkyBXCaDqysQwUjucsEfc9nxjFHtMhOL59In4KgSMGvrsLCEQhd1nAFjM2L7kT6rSGaZLFm2QdBvQI5flWgtJ3KsN8HfZginB36kv1gfQHjCKT6E4E7zPwA3xHeRPz1Y7ogwdpa4sDuEO4D8xkTIWSmsQAtWt58wUXCUHe2NTi42-A=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgtHHzob96GPjtCvkyBXCaDqysQwUjucsEfc9nxjFHtMhOL59In4KgSMGvrsLCEQhd1nAFjM2L7kT6rSGaZLFm2QdBvQI5flWgtJ3KsN8HfZginB36kv1gfQHjCKT6E4E7zPwA3xHeRPz1Y7ogwdpa4sDuEO4D8xkTIWSmsQAtWt58wUXCUHe2NTi42-A=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Victoria? Victoria!?” Derrick shouted as he rushed into
Devereux’s office.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“She’s gone,” Brad said, holding an icepack to his head
wound as both Mike and Derrick stepped inside. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What happened?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Someone took her.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What do you mean someone took her? Who took her?” Derrick
demanded, inching closer to the demon with balled fists.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“We were attacked. She was in a trance, things were going
fine. I heard a commotion downstairs and something…exploded so I attempted to
wake her. Next thing I know, I’m knocked unconscious. When I awoke, she was
gone.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Shit,” Mike cussed as he dropped onto the sofa behind
Derrick. “He came for her.”</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span></span></p><a name='more'></a><p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhd9YBMvJbfPvbQZIwYoj2EOrxhhAjs8Hol35vxNimtqZZ_0QqLD7aEK4WOX_1DXNtnB2Dt67PJmiqCM46fcbK4i1k0XMBXSogtMz9q4My4zOPTNFpYWNEyFSin0oFhzomoCw6AQ8jh1XjzF5NtXR43NXA-HHeDcBl3e_2alCKzb6wfdEz2wJp6ix7uPQ=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhd9YBMvJbfPvbQZIwYoj2EOrxhhAjs8Hol35vxNimtqZZ_0QqLD7aEK4WOX_1DXNtnB2Dt67PJmiqCM46fcbK4i1k0XMBXSogtMz9q4My4zOPTNFpYWNEyFSin0oFhzomoCw6AQ8jh1XjzF5NtXR43NXA-HHeDcBl3e_2alCKzb6wfdEz2wJp6ix7uPQ=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“What? Who did?” Derrick asked, turning in Mike’s direction.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The note for Vik, remember? The day we found Kelly, the guy
we’d been tracking, the serial killer.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The one mutilating supernaturals; draining witches of
blood?” Devereux chimed in.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Mike nodded. “He left a message for Vik. It said ‘I will see
you when the sky lights up.’ We thought he meant the lightning storms but, it
must have meant…”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Fireworks; July 4<sup>th</sup>,” Derrick said, completing
Mike’s sentence. “If he’s got Victoria…” he didn’t have to finish his thought
for the other men in the room to understand. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Mike sat with his head in his hands as the same thought
rolled around his mind. After everything they’d been through together, for this
to have happened. “Wait!” he said, jumping up, “Can’t you use your nose? Track
her with scent like you did at the house.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“And how do you suppose we do that? Drive around the city
with my head hanging out the window like a fucking dog?” Derrick growled. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t know, Derrick! I’m still new to this whole thing.
Alright? Victoria is out there, possibly unconscious too which means she’s
completely defenseless.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4yLRvXNcZN3joOQ05m44OCf6S9aDg1PvGUxU7gev3ZbmEUjrVIUK6yfLTqrippYQ-hzCoD5rIwXkPOwtezigSlShVhePouo3nzVqagJ9xGJv1YAnW9hdgszgFfZ4WIBWac5Pe45dYKtfN7sGPttdMyrgb9QpEtr912BgtMnW86femTv5iLyhSQjUS6Q=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh4yLRvXNcZN3joOQ05m44OCf6S9aDg1PvGUxU7gev3ZbmEUjrVIUK6yfLTqrippYQ-hzCoD5rIwXkPOwtezigSlShVhePouo3nzVqagJ9xGJv1YAnW9hdgszgFfZ4WIBWac5Pe45dYKtfN7sGPttdMyrgb9QpEtr912BgtMnW86femTv5iLyhSQjUS6Q=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZ4CvcpokD5Jwr8xo_SQbqPEBT72ngHTm7NBPwYN-e121wJs6w85WpKW4rM9KlCPCBfsu2KmUo0VvgzWtHawm0ZG0YglOio1414UoTVOeynJQSY61coxrvF889LxrWt0RAgr3b9uUBInXeGT2DgXgqo1zU9V0wK7um0YLU8H-AAOuEt39I1MUuZyw5SQ=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiZ4CvcpokD5Jwr8xo_SQbqPEBT72ngHTm7NBPwYN-e121wJs6w85WpKW4rM9KlCPCBfsu2KmUo0VvgzWtHawm0ZG0YglOio1414UoTVOeynJQSY61coxrvF889LxrWt0RAgr3b9uUBInXeGT2DgXgqo1zU9V0wK7um0YLU8H-AAOuEt39I1MUuZyw5SQ=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Worse,” Brad chimed in. “She’s not in her right mind. She
was taken while she was trancing. Victoria is alone with this killer but, also
under the power of persuasion. He could suggest just about anything to her
right now and she’d obey.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Fuck!” Mike said, throwing his hands up in desperation.
“There’s gotta be something we can do. Anything!”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“There might be a way but, it’s pretty risky,” Brad offered,
moving around his desk.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Well? Don’t keep us in suspense!” Mike replied.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“As I said, before she was grabbed, Victoria was in a
trance. Which means she and I were psychically linked. If I could somehow
recreate that environment within her psyche I can maybe pinpoint her location.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“So do it already,” Mike encouraged the demon as he watched
the man struggle with indecision.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait, Mike. He said it was risky,” Derrick spoke up.
“Wouldn’t you like to know what exactly would happen to Victoria before you
suggest that a demon go poking around her head?”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-XH8WRB-pnlekJz-nQIuEGqDn7zTudP0Hm14oN5YsTxxqIEfL57PJEakmYsiD2nO0whYy237wCmDsjf1_XVPIbZk96WBZa8nC1ohoFx7rMpLD8ZSW8JI6vKNVqB5dKC-BpuwM_WTVK9o-B-jnqqEV39pXPnnUzjmYi4VyJaBKaNqFkbQJsjN3XSmZ2g=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg-XH8WRB-pnlekJz-nQIuEGqDn7zTudP0Hm14oN5YsTxxqIEfL57PJEakmYsiD2nO0whYy237wCmDsjf1_XVPIbZk96WBZa8nC1ohoFx7rMpLD8ZSW8JI6vKNVqB5dKC-BpuwM_WTVK9o-B-jnqqEV39pXPnnUzjmYi4VyJaBKaNqFkbQJsjN3XSmZ2g=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjF-lX49zANJKYtlGF7syDuLh7wcO9vYwrwbT7Rmg7Oyx-ZEJYZoeknQB0DP0C38NIxfS3YQwHOicDHTnPi9Bn_jtOcELIGs_2YNiQfbVxisvBfgYGHzRWUdAK8hX6AIjh0VGgDyVZ3pubtEmKLT5EF_OzO7TKdFTDAmYBowrEd49YCPLgtw5PozMz-HQ=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjF-lX49zANJKYtlGF7syDuLh7wcO9vYwrwbT7Rmg7Oyx-ZEJYZoeknQB0DP0C38NIxfS3YQwHOicDHTnPi9Bn_jtOcELIGs_2YNiQfbVxisvBfgYGHzRWUdAK8hX6AIjh0VGgDyVZ3pubtEmKLT5EF_OzO7TKdFTDAmYBowrEd49YCPLgtw5PozMz-HQ=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“He’s already been poking around her head, Derrick. If it
means finding her…?”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Finding her as a vegetable? You think that’s a good thing?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s certainly better than the alternative!”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Better for who, Mike? Brain dead is STILL dead!” Derrick
shouted moving into Mike’s face. “It’s not enough she risked herself to help
you and now you are ready to accept something else that could hurt her even
more? And we still haven’t even seen the consequences for that! This…just might
be the fallout for all we know.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“What the hell are you talking about consequences?” Mike
asked in confusion. “Fallout for what?”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Nothing,” Derrick replied softly, realizing Victoria never
mentioned the process of her magic to Mike. “Forget I said anything.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Not uh, not happening. Tell me what the hell that means?”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp9s9XN_ysQNnSYOF3CpAempeBheVhXp31b1zsaYpCJsQHW2AbXuNT7v9MZDABlrwolOYDsaRb4vHC6ai6elcLkIqglFdCShpb1Hn0L0HVc47AakfYueuXCrCucLpzUxJ2c1r-XNzeRo1GZfP32hgutRWXK6EtBGL2JD9_Te0IrAvKUfQfQOfobLPbhA=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhp9s9XN_ysQNnSYOF3CpAempeBheVhXp31b1zsaYpCJsQHW2AbXuNT7v9MZDABlrwolOYDsaRb4vHC6ai6elcLkIqglFdCShpb1Hn0L0HVc47AakfYueuXCrCucLpzUxJ2c1r-XNzeRo1GZfP32hgutRWXK6EtBGL2JD9_Te0IrAvKUfQfQOfobLPbhA=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTWpRalgko_lk5bz88WX9IiO7VaF0xAY4du7Xb3kCkrEir8o2stgjfPLHtkKvlIGMnk88etC6mzRfRDlr8b7wiOtzDhRSz0gxOB21NFAiXNSP3jYt53vrmy9pwVansx5pYcAaWBelZJW-UpByAic7EvSS7u2_ln5f4LY9KXonoXdPoF8NWUo3vNH-sRw=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjTWpRalgko_lk5bz88WX9IiO7VaF0xAY4du7Xb3kCkrEir8o2stgjfPLHtkKvlIGMnk88etC6mzRfRDlr8b7wiOtzDhRSz0gxOB21NFAiXNSP3jYt53vrmy9pwVansx5pYcAaWBelZJW-UpByAic7EvSS7u2_ln5f4LY9KXonoXdPoF8NWUo3vNH-sRw=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“I said forget it. We don’t have time for this, Mike.”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The hell we don’t. You don’t get to lay something like that
on someone and then tell them to forget it.” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Roughly grabbing him by the collar, Derrick jerked Mike up
and growled. “Victoria is missing and possibly in a lot of fucking danger. I
don’t have time to mend your hurt feelings right now I just want to find her.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Gentlemen!” Brad bellowed, prompting Derrick to back away
from Mike before his anger got the best of him. “Arguing is not getting us
anywhere. Yes, this is dangerous. It can leave Victoria a drooling, simpering
invalid OR she can be strong enough to keep that from happening. The worst
thing that could happen is that she becomes trapped in her own mind but, she
proved herself capable of overcoming that once before. Either way, I’ll let you
decide how you want to handle this but just know, we are short on time here.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">With deep contemplation and a heavy sigh, Derrick slowly
opened his eyes and gazed over at Devereux. “Do it.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Right. Here goes nothing.”</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4TtcsIADN0TDZKXGqCdtTf21CvRaG3CosuGfxz-u_VzSJs-J9G5aZkBLc41oYmei3t1AItj64MqyKIZVhQ6a8BS4Bc8rJbgozzQlj8GiEDph7kwffBCthTuivqkDcPre_tZlJTaPyk2ufp_FpCcnNwve37W5fr-nct9g7Zc5EAxd-cvsf73vK5KBd5w=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj4TtcsIADN0TDZKXGqCdtTf21CvRaG3CosuGfxz-u_VzSJs-J9G5aZkBLc41oYmei3t1AItj64MqyKIZVhQ6a8BS4Bc8rJbgozzQlj8GiEDph7kwffBCthTuivqkDcPre_tZlJTaPyk2ufp_FpCcnNwve37W5fr-nct9g7Zc5EAxd-cvsf73vK5KBd5w=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Victoria swallowed a few times to clear her dry throat. Her
tongue felt heavy and swollen and as she rolled to sit up, her head felt about
ready to burst. Blinking hard, she slowly opened her eyes to take a look around
and brought a hand up to rub her aching temple. “Brad?”</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Finally, you’re awake,” a gravely tone bellowed behind her,
causing her to quickly turn to look and instantly regretting it. Pain shot
through her as the pounding inside her head increased and thousands of tiny
lights danced in front of her eyes. “Now we can begin.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The cloaked figure moved toward her and Victoria inched back
on the floor, trying to force herself to stand. Her hands and feet were bound
and the harder she struggled, the tighter the ropes became. “I’d considered
just getting this over and done while you were out but, I’d much rather hear
you scream.” The knife in his hand glinted as he moved closer. The stranger knelt
in front of her, she could smell the rot of his flesh and the stench of sulfur
as a thick, viscous fluid dripped from his hand.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPSoqsFlr9OMKGUmfixymNK563TAaND3L7tEOqu73NF69LGp7B18t41cAFlOmcBFLqt2VnV4Dshqm4Qp7VVADXydGq2S9WYd9ryB64c0RAIZBsuIS_Du57y5qsjRjlcnsNwRim9yJyk-DoivcvTUeFPJ1OUkpo3QnvUQtBBQVqC1scRp1179qpvmHInA=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPSoqsFlr9OMKGUmfixymNK563TAaND3L7tEOqu73NF69LGp7B18t41cAFlOmcBFLqt2VnV4Dshqm4Qp7VVADXydGq2S9WYd9ryB64c0RAIZBsuIS_Du57y5qsjRjlcnsNwRim9yJyk-DoivcvTUeFPJ1OUkpo3QnvUQtBBQVqC1scRp1179qpvmHInA=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjePFUUUKSQfuPMu8P-olbdCAUWmlbmwwFJDr-JRS0ObGbt24kHHOv_CdQ4kVJXHIrnVe2vA79FRn5vOQb2_U9Nq6Zmf-SaU7iJKQ0ULyqdmnmBuR03XlKZO7UCSVZmgRrE2WuBxKcRXAO-ViXGIRcGy8irabAFHhbfJTXuMemYobQnDxCSTnm5osFIyA=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjePFUUUKSQfuPMu8P-olbdCAUWmlbmwwFJDr-JRS0ObGbt24kHHOv_CdQ4kVJXHIrnVe2vA79FRn5vOQb2_U9Nq6Zmf-SaU7iJKQ0ULyqdmnmBuR03XlKZO7UCSVZmgRrE2WuBxKcRXAO-ViXGIRcGy8irabAFHhbfJTXuMemYobQnDxCSTnm5osFIyA=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The knife drew nearer her face and the man’s yellow eyes
shone with fury as a wicked grin tugged his lip above sharp fangs. Movement
behind him grabbed Victoria’s attention and her head shot up just as a large
board came crashing against the side of the stranger’s head. He toppled over,
his knife skated across the floor, landing at Victoria’s feet. She grabbed for
it, almost falling on her face just as a hand snatched the weapon from her
reach.</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The blade ripped through the ropes on her ankles before
removing the ones binding her wrists and it wasn’t until Victoria was on her
feet before she looked up into the face of her rescuer. Taking a giant step
back, she gasped as she stared into the eyes of—herself. “Wha..? Who are you?”
she demanded. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The stranger groaned beside her feet and Victoria’s
doppelganger shook her head and snatched her by the hand.
“Um…I really think we should probably just run now
and figure that out later.” Together, they raced through
the doors of the building and found themselves on the docks at the
waterfront. The wail of a foghorn blared and Victoria’s rescuer screamed equally
as loud and alarming as the noise made her jump. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjXYzUw_jU01EWCp12W5crngE6L1XYrijax3QWIWbI7AnERiUTY9LvYvrhf--1fHdktr9hUpIYGBYp99cjnOO8BdBxLT4yCM8SjdG4vKZZSoIqiTHZX79H8VF36y0Y0amae-jjennkNsnrabT6bUwH3LGKonOZXEAvPIEDLVfFwQXVuIH6i0jQL8Ytrw=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjXYzUw_jU01EWCp12W5crngE6L1XYrijax3QWIWbI7AnERiUTY9LvYvrhf--1fHdktr9hUpIYGBYp99cjnOO8BdBxLT4yCM8SjdG4vKZZSoIqiTHZX79H8VF36y0Y0amae-jjennkNsnrabT6bUwH3LGKonOZXEAvPIEDLVfFwQXVuIH6i0jQL8Ytrw=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZYjvJCSQ19f5BHHETskCmwpMZWSdL5EFvG-gZ-ow-t7hDPgq9zX2yxjGxrgpYp-OU3zixB9i3AXRZLaeEdKoJgHWVXDjihLTeE2FOP22I-OjXylJKsCBVtA1PkXcvVAjQfFWWCncBAYXDtCJMcAOV0pXHTY7y_pSHsRX8rjZXQPu0Eg0btIqvHuQPg=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhbZYjvJCSQ19f5BHHETskCmwpMZWSdL5EFvG-gZ-ow-t7hDPgq9zX2yxjGxrgpYp-OU3zixB9i3AXRZLaeEdKoJgHWVXDjihLTeE2FOP22I-OjXylJKsCBVtA1PkXcvVAjQfFWWCncBAYXDtCJMcAOV0pXHTY7y_pSHsRX8rjZXQPu0Eg0btIqvHuQPg=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>“Relax, it’s just a ship,” Victoria pointed toward the
water. Looking around, she tried to find something to bar the door shut and
urged…herself to help push a large dumpster in front of the exit. The
Victorias then hurried to the front of the building and the street
for help. Just as they reached the fence, a familiar red pickup slammed through
the gate and skidded to a stop just in front of them. </div><div><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Mike and Derrick both hopped out and ran toward the women,
shock and confusion dropping their mouths open in awe. “Victoria?” Derrick
asked, his gaze zipping between the two. Victoria rushed forward, throwing her
arms around the vampire and hugged him tight as his arms slowly encircled her,
still in disbelief as he gazed at her other self. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Uh…Vik?” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Mike!” The other Victoria hurried toward her partner and he
found himself mimicking Derrick’s scene as he comforted a shaken and upset
Victoria. “He’s inside!” she cried, pointing toward the warehouse. </p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOBMb7SEUzdx4CEYZhYqAMukLeL9x9O7QO0eiwWQx45kpn_INrvj8z3DODEboQLalhm7PpnF7_6YmAI8zbhtpFBI1s9cy5J_Ih0WVkWDa8rnTFO8tulN_Mm02OYa5Gs_ulxcRFKdKnMjoYtJ2wS6xDPHgXwyRKtXXnem5YB6WzzUkheaENqYjryjbS9Q=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjOBMb7SEUzdx4CEYZhYqAMukLeL9x9O7QO0eiwWQx45kpn_INrvj8z3DODEboQLalhm7PpnF7_6YmAI8zbhtpFBI1s9cy5J_Ih0WVkWDa8rnTFO8tulN_Mm02OYa5Gs_ulxcRFKdKnMjoYtJ2wS6xDPHgXwyRKtXXnem5YB6WzzUkheaENqYjryjbS9Q=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdytAJ7JMJtzGmQRU3ndBynGzNZ1yMgHZyJWo_byY26GZkairoWDLKxZbv2m9WYTUIKPLEm0CHVVdaDC8SjHz-Q8QeqwwXspXo6p71KY6UEdZwUGjVjtyaAfgrXGigkLNfMYmwMURGMN4aQ_U1LWu0y5wvg6IJAflG40bENaTS1q8Sp2cHEgeX0b7Hsg=s1920" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgdytAJ7JMJtzGmQRU3ndBynGzNZ1yMgHZyJWo_byY26GZkairoWDLKxZbv2m9WYTUIKPLEm0CHVVdaDC8SjHz-Q8QeqwwXspXo6p71KY6UEdZwUGjVjtyaAfgrXGigkLNfMYmwMURGMN4aQ_U1LWu0y5wvg6IJAflG40bENaTS1q8Sp2cHEgeX0b7Hsg=w640-h360" width="640" /></a></div><br />“Wait here,” Derrick said. Both men jumped into action,
rushing forward and entering the closed off storehouse without a moment’s
hesitation. Breaking off in separate directions, they searched for Victoria’s
abductor but, the only thing left was a puddle of the same goo found at
Devereux’s home and the strong odor of sulfur. <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Rejoining the Victorias out by his truck, Mike
announced to the women there was no one inside and Victoria turned to Derrick.
“How did you find me?” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Devereux. He…” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Shit! Is he ok?” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“He’s fine, Victoria, you’re the one I’m worried about,”
Derrick replied, again bouncing his eyes over her shoulder toward the other
her. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah,” she sighed, turning toward herself. “Someone’s got
some explaining to do.” <o:p></o:p></p><p></p>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-28080981168138920762018-01-14T21:42:00.002-05:002023-02-04T06:33:20.639-05:0067: Which Witch is which? – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-38J5Qc7Dmeo/WlwSLADzxgI/AAAAAAAAyGg/Nhq9sEjh1aoyOCuB6je7FsP4Hf49zzBqgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-38J5Qc7Dmeo/WlwSLADzxgI/AAAAAAAAyGg/Nhq9sEjh1aoyOCuB6je7FsP4Hf49zzBqgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30E9TEJ9eio/WlwSLEfw-JI/AAAAAAAAyGc/2fNkwXgKTncupyUOCs5m54ow-5xiGpjnQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30E9TEJ9eio/WlwSLEfw-JI/AAAAAAAAyGc/2fNkwXgKTncupyUOCs5m54ow-5xiGpjnQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“It’s important to remember to breathe,” Brad Devereux
coached Victoria as he prepared to put her under. “Focus on what you know is
real. Try not to allow your emotions to cloud your logic. The way this works, I
will try and show you things to make you doubt yourself; make you suffer and
trick you into doing what I want you to do.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Which is what exactly?” she asked, clenching her fists at
her side.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well,” Brad smirked as he moved in front of Victoria,
“That’s for me to know and you to find out. Are you ready?” She took a deep
breath and Brad could see the fear and hesitation in her eyes. “We don’t have
to go through with this.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, we do. I’m ok,” she said with a heavy exhale. “Let’s do
this.”</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u76W5NzF7gI/WlwSK3VavMI/AAAAAAAAyGY/gXLPSr3AEeQQ0pPmYwrvcf5DtGO773ZoQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u76W5NzF7gI/WlwSK3VavMI/AAAAAAAAyGY/gXLPSr3AEeQQ0pPmYwrvcf5DtGO773ZoQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivSM_80GRCk/WlwSOt55XAI/AAAAAAAAyGk/V1cESuzBf7suuLx1Wim9WtONc9RqpRIlwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ivSM_80GRCk/WlwSOt55XAI/AAAAAAAAyGk/V1cESuzBf7suuLx1Wim9WtONc9RqpRIlwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“8132 Skylark Drive,” Mike said, maneuvering his truck up
the long driveway towards the front door. “According to Devereux, this place
has been getting vandalized pretty regular, often after he spends a weekend.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Someone is breaking into his vacation home after every
weekend he visits?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. He even installed an alarm that the perpetrator has
set off on multiple occasions throughout the week. So far, law enforcement has
been ineffective in finding the perp or putting a stop to the break-ins. They
had a guard posted for a week but, the perp wasn’t brazen enough to try. After
that, Devereux had cameras installed hoping to catch the offender in the act.
They captured a single male suspect wearing a hooded sweatshirt and dark pants
but, he could not be identified at any point. I pulled a still and sent it to
one of my guys at the department. Hopefully he gets back to me with an ID
soon.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPOocDctxyY/WlwSO37przI/AAAAAAAAyGo/TYo-BYJGMdwzPw4JaOy-ykzaHm7F8r6KACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GPOocDctxyY/WlwSO37przI/AAAAAAAAyGo/TYo-BYJGMdwzPw4JaOy-ykzaHm7F8r6KACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Anyway,” Mike sighed, as he placed the key obtained from
Devereux into the lock. “We’re just gonna have a look around. See if we can
find something the police may have overlooked.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They entered the log cabin home and each started in
different directions. Mike focused his attention around the front of the house:
kitchen, living room, dining and den while Derrick took a look through the
office and bedrooms. “Never would have pictured Devereux as the outdoorsy
type,” he shouted loud enough to be heard from the master bedroom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. From what I gathered, he came here to escape his
stalker back home but, that obviously didn’t work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh-3ljD49lM/WlwSPPourjI/AAAAAAAAyGs/jtCyQr969B4fNc0XGgUTpBC_atItz5xgQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh-3ljD49lM/WlwSPPourjI/AAAAAAAAyGs/jtCyQr969B4fNc0XGgUTpBC_atItz5xgQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Especially when the stalker seems to focus around his
waste.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You find something?” Mike asked, joining Derrick in the
back bedroom. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trash bin,” he motioned as he continued combing through the
closet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A sticky residue clung to the top of the basket. The strong
odor of rotten eggs quickly made Mike back away and cover his nose as he dry
heaved behind his hand. “My god! What is that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sulfur.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why is there sulfur…?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Demons. And having met Devereux, I can say without a doubt,
that’s not from him.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok. Can this…goo help us identify our perp?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BB730zwPq0/WlwSROUslSI/AAAAAAAAyGw/qKZPVc14Qrk_ihZ785mQpsB1-i1E-nqvgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0BB730zwPq0/WlwSROUslSI/AAAAAAAAyGw/qKZPVc14Qrk_ihZ785mQpsB1-i1E-nqvgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7A1b3NtJME/WlwSSh3-z6I/AAAAAAAAyG0/v_06pU-mKR0pD47S8cGzA1ewZcGFH-ZOACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d7A1b3NtJME/WlwSSh3-z6I/AAAAAAAAyG0/v_06pU-mKR0pD47S8cGzA1ewZcGFH-ZOACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not really. Most creatures who’ve spent any significant
time in the underworld would carry with them a small degree of the stuff.
Although, it’s not normally viscous, more of a powdery substance. It does tell
us, however, that we’re dealing with a supernatural and not just some average Joe.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Awesome. Just once, I’d like to have a normal case. Just
once.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean you didn’t get enough of that when you were on the
job?” Derrick grinned at Mike’s exasperation and followed behind him as he
trudged from the room.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Devereux gave us a list of people he thinks may have
hostile feelings towards him. I say we go take a look and see if you maybe
recognize any of them as—otherworldly.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDKzsUsFg08/WlwSUfKvYfI/AAAAAAAAyG4/_0YGMO-00gMptOVn45-i8s5e7P0Z6fGIQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vDKzsUsFg08/WlwSUfKvYfI/AAAAAAAAyG4/_0YGMO-00gMptOVn45-i8s5e7P0Z6fGIQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria stood in a bedroom that wasn’t immediately
familiar. Taking a look around at her surroundings, she slowly worked on gathering
her bearings. Pictures and awards on the walls sparked a memory and her mouth
curled into a smile. She was home. Or more accurately, her childhood home;
though the year was not clear.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q4BHahj944E/WlwSWaGboDI/AAAAAAAAyG8/7UzqQJIEk2077Q9XNZfVor0i71gAFqZ4gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q4BHahj944E/WlwSWaGboDI/AAAAAAAAyG8/7UzqQJIEk2077Q9XNZfVor0i71gAFqZ4gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, hurry up or you’re going to be late for school
and I can’t drive you today.” She heard the voice of her mother shout from
downstairs. The door to her closet opened and Victoria was staring at a teen
version of herself.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m coming, Mom!” the teen shouted in return. Victoria
watched her teen-self move closer to where she stood but, seemed to look right
through her. Teen Victoria grabbed an object from the dresser behind her before
taking one last look into the mirror and stomping out the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f86yg_frDME/WlwSXlbgSSI/AAAAAAAAyHA/5rIOAxMRFxoUhTsubK1IZx6CF7w4itj2wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f86yg_frDME/WlwSXlbgSSI/AAAAAAAAyHA/5rIOAxMRFxoUhTsubK1IZx6CF7w4itj2wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You know they’ll never
accept you. </i>She heard another voice float over her, sending shivers down
her spine. The little hairs on her arm stood and she rubbed her hand over them
to calm her nerves. <i>They will all leave
when they learn the truth about you. They always leave.</i> Shaking her head to
focus, Victoria started over towards the closet. The door flew open and she was
faced with more pictures and newspaper clippings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Articles about things happening around town, unexplained
events and strange disappearances. Pulling one clipping from the inside of the
door, Victoria read over it and gasped. The article was about a woman who had
gone missing after a night out with friends. It was dated March 14, 1996.
Quickly, she realized why this particular memory had resurfaced. It was the day
she first asked her mother about magic. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
It had been an innocent inquiry. After a nightmare, one
particularly frightening involving red smoke and dragons, she’d awaken with a
mark on her left arm. Victoria glanced down, touching the spot. Her mother had
reassured her it was only a dream and she must have been so frightened that she
accidentally injured herself somehow on her nightstand. Victoria hadn’t been
convinced and began doing her own research but, that ended…how had it ended?
She couldn’t remember.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lzytaj0NaaA/WlwSZrz-5iI/AAAAAAAAyHE/U9YDatZJ_MIGM5GPVk0RpE9y7VU7g5fqgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lzytaj0NaaA/WlwSZrz-5iI/AAAAAAAAyHE/U9YDatZJ_MIGM5GPVk0RpE9y7VU7g5fqgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As she reached for another article, a bright flash of light
struck outside the bedroom window and Victoria’s head exploded in pain. She hit
the floor, crying out as the throbbing intensified. Curling up into a ball she
tried to conjure a spell to help ease the tremendous ache but she couldn’t
think straight.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>We know what you did.
Blood magic. You’re unworthy of your magic. </i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” Victoria asked as images of Mike flashed before her.
“No, wait, you don’t understand. I had to.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You risked us all for
some lowly human. You’re unworthy of your magic.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6x1SfqYQv5Q/WlwSbM0wqiI/AAAAAAAAyHI/RUK65KJRy3Mso4ZN9W-pRebVPjPEVlJsgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6x1SfqYQv5Q/WlwSbM0wqiI/AAAAAAAAyHI/RUK65KJRy3Mso4ZN9W-pRebVPjPEVlJsgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike’s not…I didn’t…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” Brad shook her, trying to rouse her. “Victoria,
wake up!” She mumbled but, didn’t stir. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>You will soon get what
you deserve. You’re unworthy of your magic.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please,” she cried, crawling into a corner as more images
rushed through her. “Please.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>There is a price for
blood magic. There is always a price. You’re unworthy of your magic.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJUJexaq-nw/WlwScAFuAmI/AAAAAAAAyHM/aRK3UhsS9z4NkMxiiUDcD4Ia9TTdVCRXQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sJUJexaq-nw/WlwScAFuAmI/AAAAAAAAyHM/aRK3UhsS9z4NkMxiiUDcD4Ia9TTdVCRXQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KIZXAeRK0aw/WlwSeh8fr4I/AAAAAAAAyHU/lf4eB8aRLK050QXZKlPzlQ3a74nk2uwBwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KIZXAeRK0aw/WlwSeh8fr4I/AAAAAAAAyHU/lf4eB8aRLK050QXZKlPzlQ3a74nk2uwBwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“VICTORIA!” The door to Brad’s office flew open and a dark
figure stepped inside. Jumping to his feet, he turned to face the intruder and
gasped. “You?!” Brad charged the man, shoving him away from a prone Victoria as
he started towards them. “Victoria, wake up!” Brad shouted as he and the
stranger wrestled around his living room floor. “I won’t let you take my power,” he
growled and pushed the man away again.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Foolish demon. Who said it was you I was after?” the
stranger laughed, his yellow eyes glowing with rage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hY5V4r-UwLA/WlwSfrq3S1I/AAAAAAAAyHY/ycuoQUgtJtABhpkdzjAnOagQVKatcKsDACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hY5V4r-UwLA/WlwSfrq3S1I/AAAAAAAAyHY/ycuoQUgtJtABhpkdzjAnOagQVKatcKsDACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PtJuE17KCeU/WlwSgm6iteI/AAAAAAAAyHc/WpVkA9hNrKY6lgFBhe27SP9g_l9l-o_XQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PtJuE17KCeU/WlwSgm6iteI/AAAAAAAAyHc/WpVkA9hNrKY6lgFBhe27SP9g_l9l-o_XQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Here we are!” Mike announced in a singsong tone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And where is here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“117 Maple Avenue.” Mike pulled his truck up to the curb.
“This is the last known address for our suspect from the DMV.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh,” Derrick said, peering up to the tiny home centered
between two large oaks in the middle of suburbia. While Derrick went through
the portfolio of suspects Devereux had given Victoria, Mike got a call from one
of his old police friends who had been able to identify the man in the video
using face recognition software: Alan Thomas. He hadn’t been in the folder as a
possible person of interest and after Mike ran a few background checks on him,
he found nothing that would connect the man with Devereux. Now they had gone
from demons to a random stalker. Nothing in this case was making sense. “Looks
vacant. And I don’t hear any heartbeats. No one’s home.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PRYicfdC5Ko/WlwSjxP5KpI/AAAAAAAAyHg/yhzYqirrLXMk4Qkq_9v6mqkKO5IwZyxEgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PRYicfdC5Ko/WlwSjxP5KpI/AAAAAAAAyHg/yhzYqirrLXMk4Qkq_9v6mqkKO5IwZyxEgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkCgpIJa4yw/WlwSk0PFvjI/AAAAAAAAyHk/fXpXrJEw5hoCgWaiUluq3GBlCqTMRF19QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KkCgpIJa4yw/WlwSk0PFvjI/AAAAAAAAyHk/fXpXrJEw5hoCgWaiUluq3GBlCqTMRF19QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really? You can hear that all the way out here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Perks of the breed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right,” Mike said, sliding out of the driver’s seat.
“Still, I’d like to have a look inside at least. Who knows, maybe you can SMELL
where our perp got off to.” Derrick smirked and followed along behind him to
the front stoop. “Wait,” he paused, placing a hand up before either could move
up the first step. “You see that? Looks like…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Blood. Days old. Maybe three.” Mike turned back towards
Derrick and he pointed to his nose. “The dirt beside it though, that’s fresh.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So someone stopped by either to check on the suspect or
make sure they didn’t leave behind any evidence.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30s7BomwfHw/WlwSl_DODGI/AAAAAAAAyHo/A7sIQYHDFo0iuy-Nm5ocHCKR5x-9EXg8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-30s7BomwfHw/WlwSl_DODGI/AAAAAAAAyHo/A7sIQYHDFo0iuy-Nm5ocHCKR5x-9EXg8gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And they left in a hurry. A few twigs in that shrub beside
you are bent and the flowerbed has been trampled. Whoever it was, didn’t want
to waste time using the stairs.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nice. I can see why Vik lets you tag along.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Surprisingly, Mike, my intelligence isn’t the only thing
the detective is so fond of,” Derrick replied with a smirk.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This must be what it’s like for Vik,” Mike sighed and shook
his head. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How’s that?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She tells me I overshare. Now I get it,” he said with a
smile.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k2egdy3xmSs/WlwSoQfipKI/AAAAAAAAyHs/JTri7GOc2AYnsjFY_bgQjmpEvOHRN3vbACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-k2egdy3xmSs/WlwSoQfipKI/AAAAAAAAyHs/JTri7GOc2AYnsjFY_bgQjmpEvOHRN3vbACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83O1S_sZ-ms/WlwSoh3fY-I/AAAAAAAAyHw/prQxjRzrnaciGoT0HhY3qhRsWbI6AtT9gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-83O1S_sZ-ms/WlwSoh3fY-I/AAAAAAAAyHw/prQxjRzrnaciGoT0HhY3qhRsWbI6AtT9gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Something exploded across the street and both men turned. Soon
after, there was another burst mimicking gunfire. Mike jumped, his hand
instantly moving to his sidearm as a loud crack rattled in the streets. It was
followed by several pops and ended in childish laughter. Three kids ran from
behind a dumpster, heading down the street, the remnants of their firecrackers
sizzled and extinguished.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Kinda jumpy aren’t you?” Derrick smirked, folding his arms
into his chest as he watched the Detective take a breath. “Don’t worry, Mike. I
won’t let those kids hurt you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike rolled his eyes and started back towards the house.
“You coming?” he asked, tossing a look back at the vampire. This time, it was
Derrick whose face twisted in fear. “What? What is it?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s Victoria. She’s in trouble.”<o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/07/68-which-witch-is-which-pt-3.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-46172009411261665732017-12-31T22:59:00.004-05:002024-02-21T23:39:53.181-05:0066: Which Witch is which? – Pt. 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5O8Qup57K8/WU69tHupj6I/AAAAAAAAw9U/RaRYtD1gCes7D6hI6-BqJ3ygpuMq_AqnQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_5O8Qup57K8/WU69tHupj6I/AAAAAAAAw9U/RaRYtD1gCes7D6hI6-BqJ3ygpuMq_AqnQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you sure about this, Vik?” Mike asked, sliding out of
his pickup truck as he approached the security fence with her. They stood
outside of Brad Devereux’s large mansion, staring up at the door and waiting on
someone to answer their call.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Positive. One thing those trials taught me is that I’m not as
ready as I’d like to be. If there is a chance that I will come up against any
supernatural being I’ve no experience with, I need to at least try and
prepare.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes but, how is talking to this guy gonna help you?”<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnA46kLyPY4/WU69tGhUU7I/AAAAAAAAw9Y/sPLI8GSt0DkWFSdzTFmK8NsMmEOGcSHtwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MnA46kLyPY4/WU69tGhUU7I/AAAAAAAAw9Y/sPLI8GSt0DkWFSdzTFmK8NsMmEOGcSHtwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7_soko_VdM/WU69tMrj3fI/AAAAAAAAw9Q/m-epqt7Op_krgOpvuOYzR_VEvl95x2pbgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p7_soko_VdM/WU69tMrj3fI/AAAAAAAAw9Q/m-epqt7Op_krgOpvuOYzR_VEvl95x2pbgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria sighed and turned her back to the intercom before
responding. “There was a trickster demon at the event. He got into my head,
Mike. Made me relive some of my darkest sins. He used them against me,
attempting to trap me in my mind. I need Brad’s help to replicate that and
maybe, just maybe, show me a little more.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And is there any particular reason why you didn’t ask
Derrick to come with? I mean, why me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Brad’s not so fond of Derrick.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah? Well last I checked, he and I weren’t chatting it up
on Facebook either. The guy all but told me I was not welcomed company when we
had him in interrogation, remember?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, but, you’re human. He can tolerate you a little more
than a vampire and I didn’t want to come alone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hello?” a throaty voice sounded over the metal speaker.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uoZw2k8MGFw/WU69xyNo7YI/AAAAAAAAw9c/740tQFlh54g06gpShuwmr04bAQ87ni29QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uoZw2k8MGFw/WU69xyNo7YI/AAAAAAAAw9c/740tQFlh54g06gpShuwmr04bAQ87ni29QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“FINALLY!” Victoria exclaimed. “Hi there. Detective Victoria
Carson here to speak with Brad Devereux. Is he in?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mr. Devereux is not entertaining guests at this time.
Please…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’ll see me. Why don’t you go ask, I’ll wait,” Victoria
said, interrupting the obnoxious voice before he dismissed her.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please wait a moment.” Victoria shook her head and stood
erect on her tiptoes to try and peer through the fence. Moments later, the
grating sound of the chain pulley made her jerk back as the gate slowly opened
to allow them inside. Brad’s butler, the same voice from the speaker, opened
the door for them. “Mr. Devereux is in the study. Follow me, please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F1xtZEG8iyU/WU69yKWYSbI/AAAAAAAAw9k/JcZQdEf-WgAkBY9I6B7qi1ON_q0Khl-KQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F1xtZEG8iyU/WU69yKWYSbI/AAAAAAAAw9k/JcZQdEf-WgAkBY9I6B7qi1ON_q0Khl-KQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria,” Brad smiled as the door opened. “Fortune smiles
upon me at your presence.” He stepped from around his desk to greet her, taking
her hand in his as he softly kissed her knuckles. The soft scent of caramel
wafted from the man and she had a sense of why. “Always a pleasure.” His eyes
then moved over to Mike and the visible smile slowly dissolved as he
straightened his back. “And, Detective…” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Rizzitello,” Mike finished.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I remember.” Brad’s lip curled in a sneer and Mike
glanced over at Victoria as he cleared his throat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sfCMmyK8Cm4/WU69yJJ4yzI/AAAAAAAAw9g/_2_zFsAO8mohRmGP0dnGZ3aj1mE0wdzOwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sfCMmyK8Cm4/WU69yJJ4yzI/AAAAAAAAw9g/_2_zFsAO8mohRmGP0dnGZ3aj1mE0wdzOwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Brad?” she said, regaining his attention. He again met her
with a warm smile, all traces of his disdain vanished. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, it’s not that I’m not thrilled to see you again,
I am, over the moon; ecstatic!” he replied, his voice raising a few octaves as
he spoke. “Yet, I fear you’ve caught me at a slight disadvantage. What I mean
to say is, I don’t exactly know why it is you’re here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I was just getting to that.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please,” he offered her a seat as he again moved around his
desk in front of her. Victoria watched as his hand slipped inside his top most
drawer and heard the sound of a candy wrapper and smiled to herself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7NI46mVb25o/WU692aEYV8I/AAAAAAAAw9o/n4M0oyBsPn8DANuNMVggx6sPP9eSuCpsQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7NI46mVb25o/WU692aEYV8I/AAAAAAAAw9o/n4M0oyBsPn8DANuNMVggx6sPP9eSuCpsQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Brad, I want to apologize first for just dropping in unannounced
but, I need your help.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course. As I told you before, I am at your disposal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Great! That’s good to hear because what I want to ask is a
little…unorthodox.” Victoria noticed the way Brad’s eyes darted to Mike’s and
back to hers. He appeared to want to say something but, she quickly redirected.
“It’s ok, Mike knows about me and I may have also told him about you.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Indeed,” Brad replied. It was the closest she’d ever come
to getting an actual confession from the man about his true nature. “Well, this
truly is unorthodox, as you say.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-97dAbONWIgU/WU692wKUVuI/AAAAAAAAw9s/Pe-SXzz7l8sOg3hqvYumqPoZoAqoWERbwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-97dAbONWIgU/WU692wKUVuI/AAAAAAAAw9s/Pe-SXzz7l8sOg3hqvYumqPoZoAqoWERbwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upWCPjvEVIc/WU693Jf-I5I/AAAAAAAAw9w/Qhh5cm_CuKgAJzOoCPAe4Tt5YspWloxNQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-upWCPjvEVIc/WU693Jf-I5I/AAAAAAAAw9w/Qhh5cm_CuKgAJzOoCPAe4Tt5YspWloxNQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Trust me, it gets better,” Mike offered.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, uh…the ask,” Victoria took a breath and leaned
forward. “I need you to trick me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come again? You need me to ‘trick’ you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I don’t exactly know what you call it.” Victoria
closed her eyes briefly as she thought over the best way to explain her point.
“You know about the Dawning, right?” Brad nodded and Victoria continued. “I was
recently subjected to the trial and during my mental test…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah,” Brad interrupted, finally understanding. “You want me
to reproduce this ‘trial’ for you, am I right?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ding, ding, ding.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, surely you recognized how—dangerous that
particular event was. So my question is why on earth would you purposely submit
yourself to the will of a…” Brad again met Mike’s eyes and cleared his throat
as he sucked on his Werther’s hard candy. “Why would you want to go through
something so horrifying?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eira-Ra2pws/WU6955v7hvI/AAAAAAAAw90/641kOacGb-Mb25ejYln-12EcWtXJlidOwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eira-Ra2pws/WU6955v7hvI/AAAAAAAAw90/641kOacGb-Mb25ejYln-12EcWtXJlidOwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XE1yp71b-g/WU698AfNnTI/AAAAAAAAw94/fD-b27L3LKEHjmTh7ypNTYbAfd1kO077QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7XE1yp71b-g/WU698AfNnTI/AAAAAAAAw94/fD-b27L3LKEHjmTh7ypNTYbAfd1kO077QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“To learn how to fight it. To better my craft. That…man made
me feel weak and helpless. And while I hate the idea of experiencing all of
that again, I need to know how to handle it if I’m ever placed in that
situation again.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah. Understood. Well, Victoria, I will do whatever I can to
accommodate your educational endeavor.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“However, there is a small favor I would ask in return.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And there it is!” Mike exclaimed. “I knew you weren’t the
type to give without taking.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Brad smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes and he
placed his hands directly in front of him before he began speaking again. “As I
was saying, Victoria, I would ask of you a small favor.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo0jYaFNQEc/WU698f6A5-I/AAAAAAAAw98/MjlmfH5J_OUsIh9l8S3CC1g2B_Hcoyp_gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Bo0jYaFNQEc/WU698f6A5-I/AAAAAAAAw98/MjlmfH5J_OUsIh9l8S3CC1g2B_Hcoyp_gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnvGGOR5NF8/WU699qDI9UI/AAAAAAAAw-A/EI4lbRYrnAwu0dc5hd7RU9Y_U29smfsWgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PnvGGOR5NF8/WU699qDI9UI/AAAAAAAAw-A/EI4lbRYrnAwu0dc5hd7RU9Y_U29smfsWgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, two things. You and I can work on something first
thing tomorrow morning but first, I ask that you come alone,” he said, looking right
in Mike’s direction. “And secondly, that you look into a small matter for me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I understand you are no longer with the Avondale Police
Department and that you’ve opened up your very own detective agency, brava to
you I say, good job on being so enterprising.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This matter in question is something of a personal nature
and very time-sensitive.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, get me the details and I’ll get to it immediately.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excellent. I knew I could count on you, Victoria.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uyphvDj7NfQ/WU6-AQCmHtI/AAAAAAAAw-E/06kttCzmJIkN3E-mwyGWK3VNWpZuzZOZQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uyphvDj7NfQ/WU6-AQCmHtI/AAAAAAAAw-E/06kttCzmJIkN3E-mwyGWK3VNWpZuzZOZQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-40WIpiwl854/WU6-A4wK9fI/AAAAAAAAw-I/cSJLMMR2wU4Iie3C2bujs7B8TXg8cceJgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-40WIpiwl854/WU6-A4wK9fI/AAAAAAAAw-I/cSJLMMR2wU4Iie3C2bujs7B8TXg8cceJgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“I don’t trust that guy,” Mike said as they were once again
in his truck and driving back to Moonlight.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s ok, Mike, really.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, he’s…off. Maybe it’s the supernatural thing, I don’t
know but, he really rubs me the wrong way. Are you sure you want to go through
with this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Absolutely. If all goes as planned, he may even be able to
train me for more than just tricksters. Before you know it, I’ll be a certified
bad-ass.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re already certified as a bad-ass in my book. You gave
me my legs back! You throw yourself head first into one scary situation after
the next and never once expect a thank you. You’re a fucking witch! You
conjured an apple out of thin air in the middle of my living room. It doesn’t
get any more bad-ass than that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love you too, Mikey.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BV05klsZYek/WU6-BwhUOQI/AAAAAAAAw-M/glGeeBG1Yw0ZUidCBnXqajoewFOYr2hTgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BV05klsZYek/WU6-BwhUOQI/AAAAAAAAw-M/glGeeBG1Yw0ZUidCBnXqajoewFOYr2hTgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FS00BqvQvM/WU6-FQ1Mh5I/AAAAAAAAw-Q/Uvkm_jW8mYwR7EpJIF8T6WpqIHRBbljfACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_FS00BqvQvM/WU6-FQ1Mh5I/AAAAAAAAw-Q/Uvkm_jW8mYwR7EpJIF8T6WpqIHRBbljfACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He smiled over at her before turning into the parking lot of
their agency. “All I’m saying is you shouldn’t trust this man. He could be up
to anything. And I’m really not comfortable with you going back there alone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Going back where?” Derrick asked as the two rounded the
corner. He was perched outside their front door, waiting patiently for the dual
detectives to return.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick,” Mike said and tossed an apologetic look towards
Victoria. “Didn’t see you there.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He waved a hello before glancing at Victoria. “Going back where?”
he repeated. “No, absolutely not!” Derrick nearly shouted as he followed her
into the building. She’d explained her and Mike’s meeting with Brad Devereux
and as expected, Derrick was not on board; even after she pointed out the
theory she had worked out.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8bJrGJjG9Js/WU6-FpCFt0I/AAAAAAAAw-U/VYNbSTVh4RYJpiRv5tLiC6dlf0YhqZjXwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8bJrGJjG9Js/WU6-FpCFt0I/AAAAAAAAw-U/VYNbSTVh4RYJpiRv5tLiC6dlf0YhqZjXwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdlDv-7Nb2E/WU6-F2NbazI/AAAAAAAAw-Y/MIDBZDqtc2sbYelJtpE9KRsDpWCwovTsACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AdlDv-7Nb2E/WU6-F2NbazI/AAAAAAAAw-Y/MIDBZDqtc2sbYelJtpE9KRsDpWCwovTsACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, Derrick, I guess it’s a good thing I wasn’t asking
for permission.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. You and Rowan had me thrown to the wolves…literally. And
the only thing it taught me is that I need to ramp up my training. Derrick, I
felt something in that place. Something very ancient and very evil. There is NO
way I can take that on without a little wet work. ”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Whoa, what do you mean you ‘felt’ something?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know, I just did. Maybe it’s similar to how you
know when you’re in the presence of another supernatural person or maybe it’s
nothing like that I don’t know. All I do know is whatever was there was
extremely powerful, Derrick, and it scared the hell out of me. Your Elders and
everyone else expects that I’ll be the one to take care of whatever is coming
and in order to do that, I need to do this.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9eim5JRsH7A/WU6-I_CeOcI/AAAAAAAAw-c/GkroeMdYnhcY3r6oO5EEOBtAVM_v5Bq_QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9eim5JRsH7A/WU6-I_CeOcI/AAAAAAAAw-c/GkroeMdYnhcY3r6oO5EEOBtAVM_v5Bq_QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-edH7xEcEu6o/WU6-J6v7B_I/AAAAAAAAw-g/PKxsVix4lP4lqPdkYSx4YMMSee-Vfh0HgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-edH7xEcEu6o/WU6-J6v7B_I/AAAAAAAAw-g/PKxsVix4lP4lqPdkYSx4YMMSee-Vfh0HgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9k-sSHpwUgg/WU6-KFjwljI/AAAAAAAAw-k/gAppCcKoVxIvydYkr9x5kzV_aGe9ZQv0gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9k-sSHpwUgg/WU6-KFjwljI/AAAAAAAAw-k/gAppCcKoVxIvydYkr9x5kzV_aGe9ZQv0gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
He thought for a moment, briefly closing his eyes as he
leaned against the wall beside her. “Fine. Alright, if you’re doing this then
I’m coming with.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Can’t. Brad wants her to come alone,” Mike inserted and
Victoria shot him a look.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick looked back at him and then to Victoria and shook
his head vigorously. “No, hell no, abso-fucking-lutely not. Anything could
happen there and you need…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Supervision? What am I 6?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, you’re talking about someone playing in your head.
Not just any someone but a trickster of all demons. Do you know how many ways
that can go wrong? Hell, I had worries you weren’t going to pull through the
first time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Derrick, nice to have your vote of confidence.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsTlDV7Hv1s/WU6-MNTf8vI/AAAAAAAAw-o/HK-3UsT26gETojVUUy-sZu9T1NNy97XvwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GsTlDV7Hv1s/WU6-MNTf8vI/AAAAAAAAw-o/HK-3UsT26gETojVUUy-sZu9T1NNy97XvwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know what I mean.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I do, Derrick, and I appreciate the concern but, I’ll be
fine. I’m not exactly walking in there unarmed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What does that mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m putting a few backups in place, in the event everything
doesn’t go as planned.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An anchor,” he replied with a sigh. “Good, that’s smart.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, like I said. I’m not new,” she grinned, drawing a
smile from him and he caught her arm as she started for her desk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey, if at any time something feels off…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ll be the first to know,” she said pointing at her
bracelet and he shook his head. “Great. Now that we have that settled, I need to ask a
favor.” Derrick gave her a shrug and she continued. “Brad asked me to
look into something for him and since I’ll be a little…tied up, I was hoping
you could check it out with Mike?”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hOVIHiDNJM8/WU6-ObJ0OAI/AAAAAAAAw-s/76tob93ADMMbSNkrqu6_8t5Tf-kv8H9GgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hOVIHiDNJM8/WU6-ObJ0OAI/AAAAAAAAw-s/76tob93ADMMbSNkrqu6_8t5Tf-kv8H9GgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0l9mMI618s/WU6-OU-xu9I/AAAAAAAAw-w/KY6I4YyivW0UMk5HJgIGxsIm7dXplfR5QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0l9mMI618s/WU6-OU-xu9I/AAAAAAAAw-w/KY6I4YyivW0UMk5HJgIGxsIm7dXplfR5QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Oh, so you’re too old for a babysitter but, I’m not?” Mike
asked, feigning offense.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I just want to make sure you come home in one piece.
Besides, you said you didn’t like the feel of Devereux. I wouldn’t want you
doing something you’re not comfortable with.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh huh…sure. So you think sticking me with the fangy one
will ease those concerns?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, it’s a start, Michael Sean Rizzitello. Excuse me for
not wanting to be responsible for Aria’s sorrow.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And yours.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excuse me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Not five minutes ago you were telling me how much you
love me. Are you saying you wouldn’t be sad if I died? Especially when it’s due
to investigating something for some weird ass philanthropist doing you a
favor.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-geLzFwAHq6I/WU6-PIFIM0I/AAAAAAAAw-0/iHVMpb3_rR4jEr_G-HPGxMQLDna9PbejQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-geLzFwAHq6I/WU6-PIFIM0I/AAAAAAAAw-0/iHVMpb3_rR4jEr_G-HPGxMQLDna9PbejQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright, alright, I get the point. Geez. Aria better be
sure she knows what she’s getting into.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Guilt. I learned it well from my Catholic mother,” he said
with a smile.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick laughed to himself watching the two argue back and
forth before interrupting. “What’s the case?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“External threat investigation,” Victoria replied.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What does that mean?” he shrugged with a sigh.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1750PVIUng8/WU6-Rm1RRCI/AAAAAAAAw-4/0GcjLJ_09Zct_7sRugUZPvB57y38b_5pwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1750PVIUng8/WU6-Rm1RRCI/AAAAAAAAw-4/0GcjLJ_09Zct_7sRugUZPvB57y38b_5pwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axvvTn5Jt5c/WU6-R8D6-II/AAAAAAAAw-8/8eoH6FoCM6Av5srVcjwUjJDGaJHzMh0_QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-axvvTn5Jt5c/WU6-R8D6-II/AAAAAAAAw-8/8eoH6FoCM6Av5srVcjwUjJDGaJHzMh0_QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It means the guy apparently pissed someone off, shocker,
and now that someone is fucking with him. He wants us to figure out the who and
put a stop to it,” Mike explained.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I take it you got the not-so-pleasant version of Devereux
too?” Derrick asked, crossing his arms into his chest.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t think the guy likes anyone other than Victoria. She
tells me you didn’t quite make his Christmas list either.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not on many people’s Christmas lists. Comes with the
fangs,” Derrick again shrugged before crossing the room to Mike’s desk.
“Alright. Where do we start?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2018/01/67-which-witch-is-which-pt-2.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-65040520289609031602017-12-17T21:25:00.002-05:002022-05-10T12:10:56.385-04:0065: Trial and Error – Pt. 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HZqiCOBm9xI/WUs2EidF7YI/AAAAAAAAw5o/i8dJD7HiAicM5_YuGeLdEhw0BrC5jjtagCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HZqiCOBm9xI/WUs2EidF7YI/AAAAAAAAw5o/i8dJD7HiAicM5_YuGeLdEhw0BrC5jjtagCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
As Victoria stepped into the door, she felt the overwhelming
fount of energy. Something truly evil resided in this place and she sensed the
intense force as it quickened to life. Losing all sense of self, she felt
weightless and floated forward as if her feet did not touch the ground.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6gCXC_YWMU/WUs2ESUDRlI/AAAAAAAAw5g/BpAEsUTPVlAIeeVNFYktm8qBQgE_Z--nwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6gCXC_YWMU/WUs2ESUDRlI/AAAAAAAAw5g/BpAEsUTPVlAIeeVNFYktm8qBQgE_Z--nwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the center of the room was a ritual stone, much like the
one she’d seen in her many dreams of this place. Without encouragement, she
took her position on top of the stone bed, resting her head just beneath the
candles and stared up at the ceiling. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ksmQ8Ohy4_k/WUs2EqcmJBI/AAAAAAAAw5k/M8iW6wkD9rcSwxMvmoPB8pSo9i-B8JuTACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ksmQ8Ohy4_k/WUs2EqcmJBI/AAAAAAAAw5k/M8iW6wkD9rcSwxMvmoPB8pSo9i-B8JuTACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2tga6S1lZBs/WUs2H4eRN2I/AAAAAAAAw5s/p_Dl_ghO2QI1N7lKsW5xcvXOP-YViQGAACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2tga6S1lZBs/WUs2H4eRN2I/AAAAAAAAw5s/p_Dl_ghO2QI1N7lKsW5xcvXOP-YViQGAACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Soon, five other women, dressed in similar garb entered the
room, each taking a position around the table to form the five points of the
pentagram. The north-most woman began the incantation and the others joined in.
They too, floated, weightless as though the notion of gravity did not exist
inside the chamber.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria closed her eyes and waited. It didn’t take long
before she felt the power flow through her. Her body slowly began to rise from
the platform and, as she opened her eyes again, she watched the scene play out.
The northern witch had an Athamé gripped above her and Victoria’s breath
quickened. One slice, she hissed but remained still as she felt the blade burn
through the flesh of her left arm. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dSxqEEOC-I/WUs2ITVOg3I/AAAAAAAAw5w/AXxqIuSbu2oKCb9_RDxK7APMok4-1d0eACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3dSxqEEOC-I/WUs2ITVOg3I/AAAAAAAAw5w/AXxqIuSbu2oKCb9_RDxK7APMok4-1d0eACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then again, in a flash, the right received a matching mark.
The woman placed the blade again on the table and the chanting grew louder.
Golden light formed above her and slowly drifted down until she was completely
surrounded within the warmth of its rays. Victoria’s body was pushed forward
until she stood erect and words hummed in her head, forcing their way through
her subconscious. “Restituo nativitas filia. Benedicite. Benedicite,” she
chanted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgCpOxXmDWQ/WUs2IjPMzqI/AAAAAAAAw50/OmL8czZ6k7YsPobkqTBDfdRFKiMW7f5xgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EgCpOxXmDWQ/WUs2IjPMzqI/AAAAAAAAw50/OmL8czZ6k7YsPobkqTBDfdRFKiMW7f5xgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The room exploded in a burst of light. The women surrounding
Victoria were thrown against the walls and she was lifted higher into the air and
suspended above everything. Light absorbed into her as the onlookers gawked in
fascination. Gradually, she descended until again she rested atop the stone
bed. When it was all over, the women pulled themselves from the floor and
quietly exited the room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtNBOWk5Hns/WUs2KtxwHZI/AAAAAAAAw54/vId5f2jsuiAQWA9-_Dtkt5A8Un1p0uN8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OtNBOWk5Hns/WUs2KtxwHZI/AAAAAAAAw54/vId5f2jsuiAQWA9-_Dtkt5A8Un1p0uN8gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ABf2Ih-4dME/WUs2MPmwikI/AAAAAAAAw6A/moy48oZTZK8bm1G_PgGvRUHxNeScScCPQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ABf2Ih-4dME/WUs2MPmwikI/AAAAAAAAw6A/moy48oZTZK8bm1G_PgGvRUHxNeScScCPQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIAYbM9vgI4/WUs2LyLNiUI/AAAAAAAAw58/6sfZxU9oGd8IhY5MtsNAEFbnNEHaHFPbQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vIAYbM9vgI4/WUs2LyLNiUI/AAAAAAAAw58/6sfZxU9oGd8IhY5MtsNAEFbnNEHaHFPbQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Did it work?” Rowan asked, watching Victoria’s lifeless
body as she remained prone on the table below. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We shall see soon,” Emery replied. “Now comes her true
test.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He nodded to a guard stationed at the door and they watched
as he pulled Victoria from the slab and carried her into an adjoining room. The
spectators adjusted their positions to better view what came next. In the room
below them was an arena where supernatural beings tested themselves in trials
by combat. An unconscious Victoria was tossed onto the dirt floor and left to
fend for herself against an onslaught of competitors, the first: an ogre.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJSfs8YJQ44/WUs2NxZVpmI/AAAAAAAAw6E/_4lAk6w9yakFaih9H4EH9Am-Baq1npu_QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FJSfs8YJQ44/WUs2NxZVpmI/AAAAAAAAw6E/_4lAk6w9yakFaih9H4EH9Am-Baq1npu_QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come on,” Derrick whispered. Rowan smirked, sensing his
uneasiness as they watched the large beast charge with a large double-sided axe
drawn towards Victoria who still lay unwittingly in its path. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud0iADfXJTQ/WUs2QIC7oqI/AAAAAAAAw6I/m8stS4JzkP4yP6coJsKvTPl3vfqislqBgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ud0iADfXJTQ/WUs2QIC7oqI/AAAAAAAAw6I/m8stS4JzkP4yP6coJsKvTPl3vfqislqBgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w05zfpOzVMs/WUs2QWhx-iI/AAAAAAAAw6M/DnmV_y4TQ58EtDPrRvU-UCMDoIfV6-wvQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w05zfpOzVMs/WUs2QWhx-iI/AAAAAAAAw6M/DnmV_y4TQ58EtDPrRvU-UCMDoIfV6-wvQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
But, as the creature reached her, her body was tossed
forward onto both feet and, with hands raised, she released a blast of electricity
that stunned the monster. “Fulgurite!” Its weapon fell and it too dropped,
clutching at its throat as Victoria slowly moved forward. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“To the death!” She heard Julian shout above her. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mOo74iNPgBc/WUs2QyjLmeI/AAAAAAAAw6Q/836TftvEFnoPJUvXiWnjpSGB7GG_VEbJQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mOo74iNPgBc/WUs2QyjLmeI/AAAAAAAAw6Q/836TftvEFnoPJUvXiWnjpSGB7GG_VEbJQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lacera!” Squeezing her hands tighter, the force of her
magic tore the creature’s throat, reducing airflow until it finally ceased to
breathe. The crowd above her exploded in cheer but, she did not get a moment’s
rest. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mwG1Q3BhPQ/WUs2TQppFFI/AAAAAAAAw6U/64YJNZFtbLUDSva_euK9J_IizZxiDkQ0QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5mwG1Q3BhPQ/WUs2TQppFFI/AAAAAAAAw6U/64YJNZFtbLUDSva_euK9J_IizZxiDkQ0QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Entering through the door behind her was her next opponent.
The gait of the hirsute quadrupedal was all too familiar and Victoria braced
herself for impact as the werewolf rushed for her. With arms outstretched
preparing for the tackle, the animal gripped her on both sides and together,
they landed on their backs on the other side of the arena.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FQ0jGoUxI6M/WUs2Ud3V2NI/AAAAAAAAw6Y/M-RsdfKXxL4IzfY1Q_vmIcnbK_gBPGFoACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FQ0jGoUxI6M/WUs2Ud3V2NI/AAAAAAAAw6Y/M-RsdfKXxL4IzfY1Q_vmIcnbK_gBPGFoACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The wolf was up first, lifting its elongated snout to the
sky as it let out a powerful roar. A sharp pain seared down her arm and
Victoria looked down to find three large gashes carved into her flesh. The skin
around the wound was charred as though the monster’s talons were created by
hell’s fire.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quickly, she clambered to her feet, moving away to gain some
much needed distance as her blood soaked the dirt beneath her. And as the
beast’s yellow eyes refocused on her, she began a new incantation. “Incendio!”
The animal caught fire mid-air as it lunged for her, its charred remains
landing hard on the ground beside her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xIp54JtVv-Y/WUs2VMLtE1I/AAAAAAAAw6c/TCt2gdyNEQg3VkeEluhj8tgJfuIDcGOuwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xIp54JtVv-Y/WUs2VMLtE1I/AAAAAAAAw6c/TCt2gdyNEQg3VkeEluhj8tgJfuIDcGOuwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria placed her hand over her wound and, with closed
eyes, chanted “Sana et Mederi.” The deep lacerations began to heal as a bright blue
light flashed beneath her fingers. Again, she heard the sound of the door
opening to the arena and glanced behind her. Entering now was a demon, one that
reminded her of Derrick’s friend Freddy with similar markings on his face.
Victoria’s eyes widened in shock as she took in the sight of the creature.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O_h-hYZsThw/WUs2WTPhdPI/AAAAAAAAw6g/FQeOCKtQ0Qcm-w3v0BrgDB_GZqiLXrFTgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O_h-hYZsThw/WUs2WTPhdPI/AAAAAAAAw6g/FQeOCKtQ0Qcm-w3v0BrgDB_GZqiLXrFTgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The beast wasted no time as it rushed, full sprint, into the
arena. “Abscondete,” Victoria whispered, and right in front of its eyes, she
vanished. There was a collective gasp throughout the audience, the Elders
included as they watched the demon search for her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0ozMFqCBK8/WjclN6SdezI/AAAAAAAAyCo/dhIGTsnXj_0QU-KkzDn4397c0posYgxrwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U0ozMFqCBK8/WjclN6SdezI/AAAAAAAAyCo/dhIGTsnXj_0QU-KkzDn4397c0posYgxrwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A sneer curled its lip and it visibly sniffed the air,
picking up Victoria’s scent. “Ostendete.” She reappeared behind him and it
turned, angry eyes gleaming brightly as it darted its forked tongue towards her.
“Aqua facient solida!” The fiend became frozen solid in the middle of the arena
floor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4C7FIcJDLYI/WUs2YiGFe7I/AAAAAAAAw6o/n1oAnO2JhBoZv6M7KvXFDTCRKQ3n0Cr8wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4C7FIcJDLYI/WUs2YiGFe7I/AAAAAAAAw6o/n1oAnO2JhBoZv6M7KvXFDTCRKQ3n0Cr8wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk3-4ToWYNw/WUs2aFbM1cI/AAAAAAAAw6s/ymwPwkUCFfko4IhTRvjYrkFo6U65zDFFwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Yk3-4ToWYNw/WUs2aFbM1cI/AAAAAAAAw6s/ymwPwkUCFfko4IhTRvjYrkFo6U65zDFFwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Satisfied with the spell, Victoria circled around the sculpture,
watching as the brute’s eyes followed her every step. And with a flick of her
wrist, “Fractura,” the ice crumbled into tiny pieces, the water dissolving into
the dirt.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lb7aALy4Oq0/WUs2bDnZ_RI/AAAAAAAAw6w/ZyZw9vTp5lUq1dopXsCn9TqZVtO3pjPwACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lb7aALy4Oq0/WUs2bDnZ_RI/AAAAAAAAw6w/ZyZw9vTp5lUq1dopXsCn9TqZVtO3pjPwACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Congratulations,” Emery shouted down to her, “You have
bested your opponent. However, you are far from done. There is still one last
test before we are certain you are worthy of your new gift.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the physical portion of the test concluded, Victoria
remained in the center of the arena for the mental portion. This time, her
opponent was a trickster demon; a creature she’d previously been introduced to
thanks to Brad Devereux. And before she could speak a word, she felt her body
seize, her throat lock up and her hands lock against her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0a34vEK_9s/WUs2eDxL7-I/AAAAAAAAw64/RTe0INEM5Y8NrZuKV1HaA1wuPbJ4zdAOQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_0a34vEK_9s/WUs2eDxL7-I/AAAAAAAAw64/RTe0INEM5Y8NrZuKV1HaA1wuPbJ4zdAOQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her pulse elevated as her breathing grew shallow. She felt
herself being thrown into another realm and she landed on the ground of some
unknown location. Gasping for air, Victoria tried to think up a way out of her
situation. Her voice was lost to her and she no longer had the use of her
hands. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Trees rustled around her as cool air blew through them.
Turning, she stared up at the bright blue sky above her, trying to encourage
her body to move, to act, to speak but, nothing worked. The demon was in her
head. She could feel him rifling through her memories of past loves, past deeds
and past sins. The last image she saw was of the woman from the park.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VeYuUnpcInc/WUs2kFZbC-I/AAAAAAAAw7A/2gDSyEB_1zcvdwh_7agqEZKtYpBn1sYWgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VeYuUnpcInc/WUs2kFZbC-I/AAAAAAAAw7A/2gDSyEB_1zcvdwh_7agqEZKtYpBn1sYWgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHoz4sAxNCU/WUs7qi63ZgI/AAAAAAAAw8Y/StM65l-qli8vOKfYwYghH_FFYVXturZQQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHoz4sAxNCU/WUs7qi63ZgI/AAAAAAAAw8Y/StM65l-qli8vOKfYwYghH_FFYVXturZQQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A tear rolled down the side of her face as she watched the
scene replay over and over again. The sound of the woman’s cry as the bullet
drove through her. The way her neck snapped back as it ripped into her skull.
The bright spray of blood as it exited out the back of her head. The silence
that came next once the jogger collapsed to the ground.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--g8rgoYo-4U/WUs2dzEUhVI/AAAAAAAAw60/vPkBffsGpKc9p8uA8WCHiOAXZ2VUFxkdQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--g8rgoYo-4U/WUs2dzEUhVI/AAAAAAAAw60/vPkBffsGpKc9p8uA8WCHiOAXZ2VUFxkdQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rj4uTMlQRhc/WUs2egnBkNI/AAAAAAAAw68/tSAhzmkr8ZkxpVD7Qxk3KH45PAVbOlEXQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rj4uTMlQRhc/WUs2egnBkNI/AAAAAAAAw68/tSAhzmkr8ZkxpVD7Qxk3KH45PAVbOlEXQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s happening?” Derrick asked as they continued watching
Victoria lie motionless in the bottom of the arena.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The trickster is playing her against her own emotions. The
witch has to find a way to overcome her pain if she expects to free herself and
unlock her true potential,” Julian explained.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan again smirked as he leaned into Derrick and whispered,
“Sound familiar, Mate?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What happens if she doesn’t?” he asked, ignoring his Sire’s
comment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She will remain trapped in her own mind,” Emery replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come on, Victoria. You can do this.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5Wr_13UZCk/WUs2k_rxULI/AAAAAAAAw7I/5plccOkXG3EjFZcySqJEdVJaDu_lSuUiACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W5Wr_13UZCk/WUs2k_rxULI/AAAAAAAAw7I/5plccOkXG3EjFZcySqJEdVJaDu_lSuUiACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Let go.</i> Victoria
lay silently on the ground as leaves fell softly around her. Over and over
again she heard the shot. She watched the woman fall and felt the pain of her
death. She thought she had found an escape, drowning herself in work but, there
was no escaping her guilt. She was responsible for someone’s untimely demise.
In the ten years she worked for the Avondale Police Department, she only had to
discharge her service weapon a total of three times but, none of them resulted
in death. <i>Let go of all the pain.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw8yTOriioM/WUs45HxK-0I/AAAAAAAAw8M/TVB_FLq_E_Q7z97T6i1v-cQH8zpVcdi8gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uw8yTOriioM/WUs45HxK-0I/AAAAAAAAw8M/TVB_FLq_E_Q7z97T6i1v-cQH8zpVcdi8gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria closed her eyes. A small spark of light shone
behind her eyelids. “Derrick.” His name fell from her lips in a small whisper
but, it was the catalyst she needed. Victoria felt her finger twitch. Her body
was reawakening. The sound of the gun firing exploded again behind her. And she began to move. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vinculum abrumperes. Dimittis. Vinculum abrumperes. Dimittis.
Dimittis.” She continued chanting until she felt her strength return and was
finally able to stand. The trickster fell back and watched as Victoria started
forward. Hands at her side, her lips trembled as she slowly regained her
faculties. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9NAchgg19Oc/WUs2mw104mI/AAAAAAAAw7M/fO395twOyy4pgCxLwNQTs6fZ-sxqnp9PgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9NAchgg19Oc/WUs2mw104mI/AAAAAAAAw7M/fO395twOyy4pgCxLwNQTs6fZ-sxqnp9PgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS6GU3XQpTM/WUs2n4QvLWI/AAAAAAAAw7Q/_RRGKxXz_y8vA44-h2ySP6oCKw8XLVkIgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wS6GU3XQpTM/WUs2n4QvLWI/AAAAAAAAw7Q/_RRGKxXz_y8vA44-h2ySP6oCKw8XLVkIgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please. I wanted to bring you peace. Resolve your sins. I
was only trying to help.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s what everyone says. You’re just like Rowan and
Loretta and Derrick. You tell me you want to help but, I’m always the one left
to deal. So you know what?” She lifted her hands above her head, bringing them
down in a ball of light as the sky flashed with fire. Bolts of electricity
thundered to the ground, igniting the arena floor in every place they hit.
Surrounded by fire, Victoria’s eyes turned completely white as she looked down
at the demon cowering at her feet. “You and the others can go to hell!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvov3may4p8/WUs2pDbPE0I/AAAAAAAAw7U/8WMBajX-2QEgUQSl-d5SUfXaevQNIPk7ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kvov3may4p8/WUs2pDbPE0I/AAAAAAAAw7U/8WMBajX-2QEgUQSl-d5SUfXaevQNIPk7ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lifting her head, the shroud of fire raged from all sides of
her towards the prone man, she watched as his body became engulfed in bright
orange flames. He screamed as the fire consumed him, leaving nothing more than
a pile of ash. “She’s done it,” Julian said, watching the trickster body
flicker into ash. “And without a spell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywQ8-Flgm_g/WUs2qKwr8qI/AAAAAAAAw7Y/057p7v32PTA4KSt8w8r__0lOb4eb_LXkACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ywQ8-Flgm_g/WUs2qKwr8qI/AAAAAAAAw7Y/057p7v32PTA4KSt8w8r__0lOb4eb_LXkACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She will be the one,” Emery agreed as he turned to exit the
room.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What does that mean?” Derrick asked, turning from the
window as Victoria was helped back into the chamber.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It means when the day comes, she will be called upon to do
what the other witches before her have: cage the destroyer.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So she’s free to go?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” Julian nodded. “You may take her home. Keep her
safe, Edmund.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ozad_UnWyM/WUs2ryxZ-GI/AAAAAAAAw7c/hVqbmzkphUU104Rrmc9rFxaWRj843L48wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1Ozad_UnWyM/WUs2ryxZ-GI/AAAAAAAAw7c/hVqbmzkphUU104Rrmc9rFxaWRj843L48wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you.” Derrick rushed from the room and down the
stairs towards the chamber to Victoria. As he entered the room, she was just
redressing. She turned with a scowl and he placed his hands in front of him
defensively. “We can leave. It’s ok.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, it’s not. Nothing is ok. You let Rowan kidnap me! You
allowed them to bring alive my worst fucking nightmare and then throw me in a
room where monsters repeatedly tried to kill me. No, Derrick, nothing is ok.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dsli2EOUNHc/WUs2tlYXXrI/AAAAAAAAw7g/Elxa6FF1EK8bjWyjsfoD0jIVsuuDGN_3wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Dsli2EOUNHc/WUs2tlYXXrI/AAAAAAAAw7g/Elxa6FF1EK8bjWyjsfoD0jIVsuuDGN_3wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before he had a chance to speak, Victoria stormed from the
room. Derrick afforded one last glance above to the observation deck and caught
the end of Rowan’s smug expression before running to catch Victoria. “I’m so—<o:p></o:p>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Save it! You really think I care? I can’t even look at you
right now. You were supposed to protect me, Derrick. And instead you…I can’t
believe you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yHxH6tprlRk/WUs2vzBNfdI/AAAAAAAAw7k/dwLITUFis3sg-YfhMCllGl4eoox2vPXmgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yHxH6tprlRk/WUs2vzBNfdI/AAAAAAAAw7k/dwLITUFis3sg-YfhMCllGl4eoox2vPXmgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zm14XybDdpg/WUs2xlxCepI/AAAAAAAAw7o/teSF-dth3mwxMwg8PknMuy2O5TfwM4W1QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zm14XybDdpg/WUs2xlxCepI/AAAAAAAAw7o/teSF-dth3mwxMwg8PknMuy2O5TfwM4W1QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excuse me,” Victoria heard the familiar soft tone of the
Elder behind her and stopped. She knew it was too good to be true. “Before you
go,” Julian said, stopping Victoria just outside in the garden. He pulled an
item from his coat pocket and handed it to her. Pulling open the top, she hid a
smile seeing a mystic talisman. Etched into the face was a large stone pillar
with mountains just behind them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An ancient, yes. My family predates the original pact, in
fact, it was my mother that helped summon the witches to defeat the Destroyer
when last he came. This is the Earth Shaker; the talisman that controls natural
elements of the earth. It won’t help if you’re unable to locate the others but,
it’s a step in the right direction. Good luck.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1aPczT4EEk/WUs2ycX0kQI/AAAAAAAAw7s/Qp8IpIJ396scPbTOFvN6q3B4OMEa2Vi8QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-f1aPczT4EEk/WUs2ycX0kQI/AAAAAAAAw7s/Qp8IpIJ396scPbTOFvN6q3B4OMEa2Vi8QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick watched and waited as the van pulled away from his
house and drove the corner off his block. “They’re gone.” He turned to see an
angry expression on Victoria’s face and could only imagine the resentment
harnessed behind the look. That signature smirk crossed his lips and he opened
his arms wide, beckoning her forward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhB5lvpb30g/WUs20ZJnAfI/AAAAAAAAw7w/z4KM8ufgsKEl8HyBiD8IYbN6bP7_FilfQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vhB5lvpb30g/WUs20ZJnAfI/AAAAAAAAw7w/z4KM8ufgsKEl8HyBiD8IYbN6bP7_FilfQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You did great,” he laughed and caught her as she jumped
against his chest. Swinging her around, a large smile appeared on her face and
she leaned down to take his mouth in a long, passionate kiss, moaning into it
as she felt his tongue snake across her lips. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That was scary,” she remarked as the kiss broke and Derrick
placed her on her feet again. “I thought for sure I was done for.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I told you it would be brutal. I’m sorry about the
circumstances but, I knew this was coming when Rowan showed up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwka4sia7QI/WUs22YIHGII/AAAAAAAAw70/1gwXJSNgskk-710UOnil1OhIzjmlPoB9ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rwka4sia7QI/WUs22YIHGII/AAAAAAAAw70/1gwXJSNgskk-710UOnil1OhIzjmlPoB9ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Rowan,” she replied tersely. “I can’t believe there was
ever a time you two were really friends. That guy has been nothing but a…ugh I
just want to strangle him!” she continued as Derrick nodded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, unfortunately, strangling would have had no effect
given the fact that he doesn’t breathe but, I understand. I used to be just
like him, I mean we did everything together; hard to believe I know. I’d like
to think I’ve since upgraded to a less insensitive asshole instead of the
morally corrupt asshole I once was.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That doesn’t sound like much of an upgrade,” she said,
lightly teasing his lips with hers.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trust me it is. You’ve seen me at my worst, Victoria,
imagine how I was without a moral compass of any kind.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1jgEsELWYSs/WUs23NTA_3I/AAAAAAAAw74/SurJ3r3t5tstJfoyBSJG2T8xcPNCSWGLwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1jgEsELWYSs/WUs23NTA_3I/AAAAAAAAw74/SurJ3r3t5tstJfoyBSJG2T8xcPNCSWGLwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean me?” she asked, jutting a thumb at herself. Victoria
smiled as she turned away, her thoughts returning to the events earlier in the
day. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She felt Derrick’s hand slip around her waist and leaned
back against him as his lips kissed down her arm. “I was scared too, Victoria.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well you have more practice at not showing it because I
couldn’t tell.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And I’m sorry about that. I had to sell it. They couldn’t
know that I’d given you a head’s up otherwise your trials would have ended very
differently.” He paused briefly, reading her emotions as she thought for a
moment and he smiled to himself. “You did amazing controlling your thoughts
tonight, keeping up the impression of being pissed at me. If they even
suspected…” he paused and shook his head. “That really was impressive.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJj_s8qw1I/WUs24cgpmuI/AAAAAAAAw78/PC7MoYtm9PAd66hl2AoM_ygdOE0p7aUHwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JpJj_s8qw1I/WUs24cgpmuI/AAAAAAAAw78/PC7MoYtm9PAd66hl2AoM_ygdOE0p7aUHwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It was easy. I just thought about seeing you kiss that
blonde bitch at your club and it seemed to work in my favor.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick laughed and she felt his chest rumble against her.
“So the truth comes out. You’re a jealous little witch.” Spinning in his arms,
she reached up and wrapped herself around his neck as she gazed longingly into
his eyes.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re mine, Mr. Constantine. I’ll not share you with
another ever again. You’ll do well to remember that.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqMH7ar-Xfg/WUs25hTV0jI/AAAAAAAAw8A/afptneSzr40LELtZED22gHWSfltW849MgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mqMH7ar-Xfg/WUs25hTV0jI/AAAAAAAAw8A/afptneSzr40LELtZED22gHWSfltW849MgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, Ma’am,” he grinned before planting a sweet kiss on her
mouth. “And now that that’s settled, we should probably discuss what you and
your Mom talked about. I saw her at Moonlight.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You sure you want to get into that right now?” she asked, giving him an unreadable look that broke into a smile as she slowly walked her fingers down his chest. “Because, I
was kinda hoping…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Say no more, Detective,” Derrick said, scooping Victoria
into his arms as he started for the stairs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
----------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
**Author’s Note: Victoria’s incantation during the ritual –
“Restore the lineage to the daughter.” Bless. Bless. Victoria’s incantation
during the trial: With the ogre: “Shock,” and “Tear.” With the wolf: “Fire!”
“Heal and Cure.” With the demon: “Hide,” “Show,” “Make water solid,”
“Fracture.” And finally, during the trial by mind: “Sever the bond. Release.
Sever the bond. Release. Release.” **<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/12/66-which-witch-is-which-pt-1.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-43350450896433992092017-12-03T20:16:00.002-05:002024-02-21T23:11:19.540-05:0064: Trial and Error – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2MgNzlnCv-s/WUnVWJpGQ5I/AAAAAAAAw3U/XFWYt7EI0Xci3WUs8hIkkj-ciE9DgFmEQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2MgNzlnCv-s/WUnVWJpGQ5I/AAAAAAAAw3U/XFWYt7EI0Xci3WUs8hIkkj-ciE9DgFmEQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria awoke to the sound of voices. Rolling to her side,
she caught herself before she tumbled all the way to the floor. Sitting up with
a start, she took a look around the room. Calling it Turkish prison chic would
have been a compliment. What used to be light blue paint had peeled away from
the walls leaving splotchy brown plaster and scuff marks in its place. The
floors were stained in thick, gritty rust and grime and the odor that lingered
from what she could only assume to be week’s old egg salad was starting to give
her a headache.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8b0uN6eGJz8/WUnVWF5oToI/AAAAAAAAw3Q/EIU14NPu_VcDWFrif0qbyd1g4W9pmcMjwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8b0uN6eGJz8/WUnVWF5oToI/AAAAAAAAw3Q/EIU14NPu_VcDWFrif0qbyd1g4W9pmcMjwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Water splashed on her from a busted pipe that had damaged
and corroded the wall to which it was attached. And as she threw her legs over
the side of the cot to stand, a cat-sized rat scurried beneath her foot and
through a hole in the wall. “DERRICK!” she shouted, quickly tossing herself
into the center of the bed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEPVBxmwD-M/WUnVWGHno8I/AAAAAAAAw3Y/8xcQ7mY6fsUU2X3_OLVK1I9jz5Ymw36CwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eEPVBxmwD-M/WUnVWGHno8I/AAAAAAAAw3Y/8xcQ7mY6fsUU2X3_OLVK1I9jz5Ymw36CwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The worn springs squealed beneath her and she held completely
still, afraid the entire thing would collapse beneath her weight at any moment.
The door opened and Marcel’s pale mug was the first thing she saw. He sneered
at her as he entered the room and was soon followed by Rowan, Derrick and two
others she did not recognize. “Where the hell am I?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first of the
unidentified men spoke, his voice softer than she’d have expected. And with a
charming smile that revealed sharp fangs, he stepped forward, “We’re beneath
Ember Lake of course.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course,” she repeated sarcastically. “And why exactly am
I here?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wE-bpkl5orQ/WUnVZ0Et-JI/AAAAAAAAw3c/W9r-asqwVRcbUQFRARD2WN85fihi9GDRQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wE-bpkl5orQ/WUnVZ0Et-JI/AAAAAAAAw3c/W9r-asqwVRcbUQFRARD2WN85fihi9GDRQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The man looked back at Derrick and Rowan who both shifted
uncomfortably under his scrutiny. “We cannot perform the rite if she is
unprepared,” the second of the unnamed men spoke with a deep, raspy voice also
directing his gaze at the two vampires. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your Grace, Sirs,” Rowan began, “I assure you, though she
may seem a bit…surly, Victoria is far more than capable of handling the course
of today’s events. I’ve personally witnessed her abilities.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria noticed how hesitant and unsure of himself Rowan
seemed in front of the two men. It was unusual. Since she’d known the man, he’d
been nothing if not confident. It gave her the sense that the anonymous duo
were very powerful within the supernatural world.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ki1CKLxlViM/WUnVa8F8FfI/AAAAAAAAw3k/F_PJcI-GbTsN6vW_QZobtbLN3xKSQeFlACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ki1CKLxlViM/WUnVa8F8FfI/AAAAAAAAw3k/F_PJcI-GbTsN6vW_QZobtbLN3xKSQeFlACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It matters not at this point,” the second man spoke. “She’s
here now, there’s no going back.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hi, excuse me, yeah still here. Correct me if I’m wrong
but, it sounds to me like you expect me to perform some sort of ritual for you,
yeah? Do you really think I’d ever be a willing participant in whatever the
hell you people have planned, especially when you’ve chained me up like some
sort of prisoner?” she asked, tugging at the ropes binding her wrists together.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t! I don’t want to hear ANYTHING you have to say,” she
interrupted as Derrick attempted to speak. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOSIXuzprjQ/WUnVawtyWyI/AAAAAAAAw3g/zfvBxPEwPgYSMFpPWBkrYUp59ZK9JoptQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOSIXuzprjQ/WUnVawtyWyI/AAAAAAAAw3g/zfvBxPEwPgYSMFpPWBkrYUp59ZK9JoptQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This is why I urged you to compel the witch,” Rowan
snarled. “Trust is FAR from a guarantee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria doesn’t need to be compelled. She will do what
needs to be done because she knows what’s right,” Derrick argued. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I suppose there’s only one way to truly find out,”
Rowan reasoned.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Indeed,” the first Elder again spoke, “Let’s get her to the
chamber.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tcDb7zBEtQY/WUnVdA7uoKI/AAAAAAAAw3o/t1Xy2v8Jt3MRlh6ulC0Wr155XUfG4b5KgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tcDb7zBEtQY/WUnVdA7uoKI/AAAAAAAAw3o/t1Xy2v8Jt3MRlh6ulC0Wr155XUfG4b5KgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOdd7OyTy0Q/WUnVe2rmLfI/AAAAAAAAw3s/5exAvIGuzjsPDIksUBm57MS31kJrsTQsQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JOdd7OyTy0Q/WUnVe2rmLfI/AAAAAAAAw3s/5exAvIGuzjsPDIksUBm57MS31kJrsTQsQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Marcel started towards Victoria, an evil smirk on his face
and she again rolled to the side of the bed. “You keep him the hell away from
me!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Stop,” Elder number two said, raising a hand halting Marcel
and yielding to Victoria’s request. “Edmund, seeing as the witch…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“‘The witch’ has a name,” Victoria interrupted with a sigh.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My apologies, dear,” the man bowed. “Edmund, since
Victoria trusts you, we shall leave her in your care. Untie her and see to it
she’s ready.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgrIpofOWSQ/WUnVf5JJtRI/AAAAAAAAw3w/lqEzLlupaWk8URxnTVcD1CuusMMKCtqFACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgrIpofOWSQ/WUnVf5JJtRI/AAAAAAAAw3w/lqEzLlupaWk8URxnTVcD1CuusMMKCtqFACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sir,” Derrick said and waited for the men to exit the room.
He turned to look at her and she huffed as she struggled again with her ropes.
“Hold still,” he said, moving closer as he used his sharp nails to cut through
the ropes. “There.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The moment she was free, Victoria shot to her feet and tried
for the door. “It’s locked,” Derrick said, watching as she tried the handle
without success. “You will come with me if you want out of here…alive.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where the hell am I, Derrick? What the hell is going on?
And Ember Lake? As in THE Ember Lake where this so called ‘Destroyer’ sleeps?
Why am I here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll explain everything but first, you have to be willing to do what the Elders ask of you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right. Like I’d ever agree to that. They could be trying to resurrect this monster for all I know.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-grz5ofiCTTE/WUnVhT297-I/AAAAAAAAw30/FwsQyYPGmpoyu-xd4EfCllxONbEq09YDwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-grz5ofiCTTE/WUnVhT297-I/AAAAAAAAw30/FwsQyYPGmpoyu-xd4EfCllxONbEq09YDwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“They’re not. Like I told you before we’re working against
the Cult of the Damned. We don’t want him coming back any more than you do. He
is dangerous to all who don’t bend to his will. Now, do I seem like the type of
person to bow and scrape to an almighty power?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know, you didn’t seem to have a problem listening
to Tweedledee and Tweedledum a minute ago!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I want to know right now what the HELL these people
want with me or I swear to god I will bring this building down on all of us.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s a test. The Elders…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Names.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The first one you met is Julian, the other is Emery; they’re ancient vampires probably older than time, hence the label. They want to test you to see if you are capable of experiencing the Dawning.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7Tij_42vhc/WUnVji9Lz3I/AAAAAAAAw34/YMbax7S5kiESCLlQlf-IKdASJEL4XktvwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q7Tij_42vhc/WUnVji9Lz3I/AAAAAAAAw34/YMbax7S5kiESCLlQlf-IKdASJEL4XktvwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlLThZBuVL0/WUnVkSTCIFI/AAAAAAAAw38/egR3vfyyQJ41dLkYV8ajOSHFszZ_2--LACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FlLThZBuVL0/WUnVkSTCIFI/AAAAAAAAw38/egR3vfyyQJ41dLkYV8ajOSHFszZ_2--LACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Which is?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An amassing of all powers, light and dark. In ancient
times, it took the same kind of force to push the beast back into his cage and
that was only after the same kind of test to find a source formidable enough to
store that much energy.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s what all this training’s been about?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“For the most part,” he said. “Now, are we doing this thing
or should I call the Elders back and tell them we both forfeit?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And by the way you asked I can only assume a ‘forfeit’
would result in both our deaths?” Derrick nodded and Victoria sighed. “You’ve
kinda left me without a choice here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know. There’s always that building collapsing thing
you suggested,” he smirked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSTjcyEU3ak/WUnVk2lMyFI/AAAAAAAAw4A/H5rLAn9hbV84-IVRLAR09dPiedxHBg_gwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HSTjcyEU3ak/WUnVk2lMyFI/AAAAAAAAw4A/H5rLAn9hbV84-IVRLAR09dPiedxHBg_gwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqvVx-RhnCI/WUnVnbx1-jI/AAAAAAAAw4E/8erIaI96BaQrvuyTHbUmFwoX1GyutLDlQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xqvVx-RhnCI/WUnVnbx1-jI/AAAAAAAAw4E/8erIaI96BaQrvuyTHbUmFwoX1GyutLDlQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She rolled her eyes at his comment but, surrendered to his whim
and followed behind him as he led her into a small dressing room. Above her,
she could see several others watching. Men, women; species unknown aside from
the vampires she knew. Three women entered the room with her carrying several
different items. One of them placed a garment box on the table and asked her to
change.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria had her misgivings considering the many eyes
looking down on her but still, she approached the table, prepared to do as
asked. Opening the box, she pulled free a long white, silk gown and dropped
it with a gasp. “I’m not wearing that,” she said, backing away from the table until
her back bumped against the wall. “Get that away from me!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doTT9DOpfto/WUneuBgFQ_I/AAAAAAAAw40/lTRj1bqcgrUOvwvuu8I7DNqkk396afwRwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-doTT9DOpfto/WUneuBgFQ_I/AAAAAAAAw40/lTRj1bqcgrUOvwvuu8I7DNqkk396afwRwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VlI8p2Kjzk/WUnVof1fJQI/AAAAAAAAw4I/YOhDo2T-p68iT4HfB9Zss2hlHFPvYGsoACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3VlI8p2Kjzk/WUnVof1fJQI/AAAAAAAAw4I/YOhDo2T-p68iT4HfB9Zss2hlHFPvYGsoACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan glanced over at Derrick with a sigh and an arrogant
look that made him want to reach over and slug his sire. “What’s the issue
now?” Julian asked, looking down over the proceedings. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not sure,” Derrick replied and shrugged down at
Victoria. She had a look of genuine fear and he could sense her dread as the
bracelet on her arm lit up bright yellow. “Something’s not right,” he said and
tried to take the stairs towards the room but, Rowan pushed him away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I told you, enough with the coddling. You just don’t get
it, mate. You lost her trust. Victoria wants nothing to do with you anymore.
Let her go. She needs to get over whatever this is and do what is asked of
her.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTv8pC6KFs/WUnVsBhI7CI/AAAAAAAAw4U/JplCo6qP80keC4aPBX9Tjm-P0hFXV5_mwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BLTv8pC6KFs/WUnVsBhI7CI/AAAAAAAAw4U/JplCo6qP80keC4aPBX9Tjm-P0hFXV5_mwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah? Good luck with that,” he growled, and pushed the
blonde vampire off of him. In an instant, the entire room of vampires, Elders included,
were assaulted with a flurry of visions as Victoria’s panic touched through
them and Derrick soon learned what had caused her fright. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was the dream of the ritual she had told him about.
Victoria was having déjà vu as the nightmare that caused her so many sleepless
nights was playing out right in front of her. Emery quickly turned to Derrick
as the images dissolved with a look of shock. “She’s a seer?” he asked.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. She just…saw this happening,” Derrick said. “It’s hard
to explain but, she had a series of premonitions. I never suspected this was
the cause of it. Victoria’s a witch from a family of witches; not a seer.”
Derrick stopped himself before he revealed what he’d heard about her family
line from Loretta concerning the unique properties of their blood.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4wgtVipQ7M/WUnVsFBdtdI/AAAAAAAAw4Y/n-9uLDREG9EjOdGCGRqgF22L5oGuOK7FACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c4wgtVipQ7M/WUnVsFBdtdI/AAAAAAAAw4Y/n-9uLDREG9EjOdGCGRqgF22L5oGuOK7FACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
But unfortunately, Rowan didn’t get the memo. “It’s her
blood,” he said without reservation. “I had the honor of tasting it myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t fool yourself, Ro, there was no honor in what you
did.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Her blood has a… distinctive quality,” he continued as if
Derrick hadn’t spoken. “It does things.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Things? What kind of things?” Julian asked.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s true,” Marcel said, speaking for the first time in the
presence of the Elders. “Rowan suffered seizures after drinking from the
witch.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w1Vh2ZQJe10/WUnVtgDURdI/AAAAAAAAw4c/dwYrk2C5qqEaQVrGGlHae_i3t6kms0cwQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w1Vh2ZQJe10/WUnVtgDURdI/AAAAAAAAw4c/dwYrk2C5qqEaQVrGGlHae_i3t6kms0cwQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Elders turned once more to Derrick who could not offer
up an explanation of what may have happened and it again fell on Rowan to fill in
the blanks. “The same blood, Sirs, caused a reaction in Derrick as well. After
he drank from the witch, he reverted to his old ways; carnage and destruction from the days of old.
I believe it’s something worth exploring further and if Derrick here is not
willing, might I offer…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ll stay away from her if you know what’s good for you,”
Derrick threatened, surprising both older vampires in the room. “Victoria is
not a lab rat. She’s down there right now because she trusts she’s doing the
right thing because of me,” he looked at Rowan as he said the last part. “Going
at her like an enemy or a pet project will make her turn from our cause and
when shit really does hit the fan we’ll all be screwed.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Edmund’s right,” Emery and Julian both agreed. “He will
continue to see to Victoria and you, Rowan, will stay out of it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbnkf6BjUyI/WUnVq80hRQI/AAAAAAAAw4Q/dx7fZOtGBEYOLPptL8ChtrLqGMG-ReVwgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbnkf6BjUyI/WUnVq80hRQI/AAAAAAAAw4Q/dx7fZOtGBEYOLPptL8ChtrLqGMG-ReVwgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you,” Derrick said with a nod.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So, can you get her back on board now?” Julian asked. “Or
do we need to move to more aggressive means?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Give her a moment.” Derrick stepped closer to the glass
keeping his eyes on Victoria and she looked up again, catching his eye. He gave
her an encouraging smile and, taking a deep breath, she moved once more towards
the table.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQyd7QqKIqA/WUnVveCRGTI/AAAAAAAAw4g/zmGAIZvwBusN6te51A4TqeE5yoTjLaKjACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQyd7QqKIqA/WUnVveCRGTI/AAAAAAAAw4g/zmGAIZvwBusN6te51A4TqeE5yoTjLaKjACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89VrCEayGck/WUnVvrGNtUI/AAAAAAAAw4k/LEQxDx2a_Vkqas4_M-ySZX53OMgIpWO5QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89VrCEayGck/WUnVvrGNtUI/AAAAAAAAw4k/LEQxDx2a_Vkqas4_M-ySZX53OMgIpWO5QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Moment of truth,” Rowan narrated, watching Victoria walk into the center chamber and the door shut behind her.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/12/65-trial-and-error-pt-3.html">Continue----></a>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-80450971125560514592017-11-19T20:00:00.000-05:002018-01-14T21:33:37.386-05:0063: Trial and Error – Pt. 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oAliRMbJhyI/WUiBepxNGXI/AAAAAAAAwzM/lXCZgFE0UVgDClWMJZU2xEnvyKA8ucV0gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oAliRMbJhyI/WUiBepxNGXI/AAAAAAAAwzM/lXCZgFE0UVgDClWMJZU2xEnvyKA8ucV0gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It had been a day since her confrontation with Rowan and
Victoria was doing her best to get passed the night in the park. Her grief
borne of loss held a palpable weight. The weight of her mistake settled in slow
and deep, pushing everything else from view. And that heaviness was making it
hard to breathe. Diving into her work helped her find a way to forget, at least
for a moment. She and Mike spent the night going over everything they had on
the serial killer stalking the streets of Avondale. On top of everything else,
having the man’s threat looming over her was beginning to get the better of her.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_tTzZ6Pa1JA/WUiBeuEwPPI/AAAAAAAAwzI/N0nkvhbAbI8iiQxYbNbLB5c8lW-Qh-7HQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_tTzZ6Pa1JA/WUiBeuEwPPI/AAAAAAAAwzI/N0nkvhbAbI8iiQxYbNbLB5c8lW-Qh-7HQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Between Derrick and Mike, Victoria barely had a moment
alone. The men in her life feared what this stranger was capable of and refused
to give him the chance to get close. It was comforting but, also
afforded little time for what she was really hoping to do: get to the bottom of
her grandmother’s disappearance and the hunt for the mystic talismans. At
times, the questions seemed endless and oppressive. She slept and awoke with
questions on her mind, stretching out into the horizon as far as she could see. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0yxMhURxkH8/WUiBcDK6FmI/AAAAAAAAwzE/fkGML1ZrosEX5wxO3PmK_j-4yVvukbxtwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0yxMhURxkH8/WUiBcDK6FmI/AAAAAAAAwzE/fkGML1ZrosEX5wxO3PmK_j-4yVvukbxtwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike had made her a deal, he’d back off for a few hours and
let her get in a little research as long as she checked in regularly. Yet, even
with that freedom, her search was coming up fruitless. And after a while, she
gave up on the hunt and started back to the office. “Any luck?” Mike asked,
opening the door to allow Victoria inside.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ugh. No. I’ve been running around from one place to the
next trying to decipher these riddles but, found nothing. I just wish that my
Mom or my Grams would tell me. Anything to help me just a little,” she growled,
dropping her keys and a handful of manila folders to the table. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is there anything I can get you?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How about a bottle of wine and a straw,” she joked,
slumping into the chair beside him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uX7J7TrG00s/WUiBj1H1nEI/AAAAAAAAwzg/RkF635T4CbM0EchM8z6NDRtyqvlKzi0VACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uX7J7TrG00s/WUiBj1H1nEI/AAAAAAAAwzg/RkF635T4CbM0EchM8z6NDRtyqvlKzi0VACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4DHMMbGZ0Q/WUiBm4zHz_I/AAAAAAAAwzs/8o3p5Jc8unw4EtAFrDSf4hHGt-9zZ2GhQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4DHMMbGZ0Q/WUiBm4zHz_I/AAAAAAAAwzs/8o3p5Jc8unw4EtAFrDSf4hHGt-9zZ2GhQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think I can do you one better.” Mike motioned for her to follow and led Victoria to the front hall. She watched as the familiar figure
stepped inside, her mouth dropping in awe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom! What are you doing here?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, we…we need to talk.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh yeah? About what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Everything,” she sighed and slowly moved forward.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I called her,” Mike said. “I thought it was time you got
some answers.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yShgs306sg/WUiBmJJCIYI/AAAAAAAAwzo/uvKK_AvRZzMuCvM9OnaIKpsgN00dAAEZACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--yShgs306sg/WUiBmJJCIYI/AAAAAAAAwzo/uvKK_AvRZzMuCvM9OnaIKpsgN00dAAEZACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Id3ViTOtBHc/WUiBswk0m3I/AAAAAAAAwzw/dI-fzaaBhS48MRtHmdPJRkdCltvwo1G0ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Id3ViTOtBHc/WUiBswk0m3I/AAAAAAAAwzw/dI-fzaaBhS48MRtHmdPJRkdCltvwo1G0ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria smiled at him and he moved around the table to sit
beside her. “If it’s ok with you, I think my daughter and I should speak in
private.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Tough, I’m not going anywhere,” Mike said as he got
comfortable beside his partner. “Whatever you have to say to her you can say
with me here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He knows,” Victoria added, seeing her mother’s hesitation. “And
he’s right, whatever you came to say you can say in front of Mike.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Delores sighed before finally conceding and dropping into
the chair in front of Victoria. “Where do I start?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The beginning would be nice,” Mike replied.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VJl4l_sr-8/WUiBuKRUcOI/AAAAAAAAw0A/JW75dwGzyU8re_POspe0IUZ-vS2nFpyAQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--VJl4l_sr-8/WUiBuKRUcOI/AAAAAAAAw0A/JW75dwGzyU8re_POspe0IUZ-vS2nFpyAQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right,” Delores dropped her head as she began. “Magic has
been a part of our family dating well before the Salem witch trials but, it didn’t
affect me until you were born. I knew what it meant having a child born of
magic. My mother, your grandmother, had raised me to learn and understand
everything about our craft from the day I learned to talk but, for you, I
couldn’t see myself forcing you into that life. I didn’t want you living in the
constant fear as I had. And yet, I found despite my best efforts, I couldn’t
keep you from it. You were six when the trouble started.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trouble?” Victoria asked with growing interest.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your powers were growing immensely, there was nothing I
could do to stop it. Powers that often manifested in your dreams; nightmares
you made reality. It made living with you…you don’t remember, Victoria, because
I made you forget. But the things you did to your siblings, completely unaware,
it was frightening.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do they know? About the magic?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuI2Bgrhx4I/WUiBuNvuSNI/AAAAAAAAw0E/mjc9xEPoqL8hZWWt8oaS01Gj-_qKJnqnwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuI2Bgrhx4I/WUiBuNvuSNI/AAAAAAAAw0E/mjc9xEPoqL8hZWWt8oaS01Gj-_qKJnqnwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1F8-OUrkLQ/WUiB0fckniI/AAAAAAAAw0I/uLfW8RzbHywIdvwXp7YNyC1HjeeQq_4cwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1F8-OUrkLQ/WUiB0fckniI/AAAAAAAAw0I/uLfW8RzbHywIdvwXp7YNyC1HjeeQq_4cwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I erased their memories of it as well. There was no
reason for them to know since I was taking care of it.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“One summer when we went to see your grandmother, I asked
that she bind your powers. She refused. She said that if we did, it would be
hard on you to ever learn your craft and she didn’t want our line to end with
me. I told her that was not her decision to make. You are my child. And the
safety of my family was at stake. Of course, she argued that if I taught you
how to use your magic, things would get better but, what came with that…all of
the evils in the world would have found you before you even hit puberty and
trust me, it’s no way to enjoy childhood.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJOtFVdHdMU/WUiB2nb6epI/AAAAAAAAw0U/kAPfR3KFRdAq9cqtZibxfLkozI7digdMwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xJOtFVdHdMU/WUiB2nb6epI/AAAAAAAAw0U/kAPfR3KFRdAq9cqtZibxfLkozI7digdMwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And so, since your grandmother refused to help, I found someone who would. Mom and I had a huge disagreement about what I’d done and…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I never saw her again…until I was 30.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Delores nodded as Victoria completed her sentence. “And I
suppose, you’ve figured out the rest,” Delores concluded, folding her arms in
front of her on the table.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Has she?” Mike exclaimed, angrily pacing back and forth
behind his partner. “Has she really figured out the rest, Lois? Or is she
supposed to just—wait around for you to reveal the next major piece of the
puzzle that’s become her life?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike, don’t…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WrWwjCZViE/WUiB2z07EAI/AAAAAAAAw0Y/VCd5g1JKt8A3gj1k-PJTLk0kOs6Xfab6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3WrWwjCZViE/WUiB2z07EAI/AAAAAAAAw0Y/VCd5g1JKt8A3gj1k-PJTLk0kOs6Xfab6wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg5x5jAkttQ/WUiB5Kl0ijI/AAAAAAAAw0g/JSJMPSnURAAUM51JftnB_ff28-WaVOGSwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg5x5jAkttQ/WUiB5Kl0ijI/AAAAAAAAw0g/JSJMPSnURAAUM51JftnB_ff28-WaVOGSwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. You know what? I’m sick of this, Vik. I’m sick and
tired of all of these people like her and Derrick and your grandmother who
claim to be protecting you, who SHOULD be protecting you but are only looking
out for their own interests,” he yelled as she tried to quiet him. Mike
leaned over on the table, staring Delores in the face as he started in on her
again. “You constantly lie to her and play mind games and treat her like some
child when she’s in danger. Danger you all seem to know about and knew before
she even uttered her first spell and yet said NOTHING!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike, this isn’t helping,” Victoria tried again.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9zuXqrIV3Y/WUiB_UW6K7I/AAAAAAAAw0w/bpfNuq-acS4DATTrEPGjEBD5FHOB5r4agCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9zuXqrIV3Y/WUiB_UW6K7I/AAAAAAAAw0w/bpfNuq-acS4DATTrEPGjEBD5FHOB5r4agCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCbNAvajfVw/WUiB-xUfHWI/AAAAAAAAw0k/fxjk023Mn-g6pTFxACIOdyL1FgB4Gt-5QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lCbNAvajfVw/WUiB-xUfHWI/AAAAAAAAw0k/fxjk023Mn-g6pTFxACIOdyL1FgB4Gt-5QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And even after all of that, she still tries. She still
walks into the darkness and into danger at the risk of her own life because she
knows it’s the only way to look after those she cares about. You ever want an
example, a real example of how to protect someone, just take a look at your
daughter. She has done more good and saved more lives than anyone I know. She
cares, Lois, and she wants to understand, but every time she opens herself up,
it’s just another stab through the heart. She deserves more respect than what
her so-called family gives her and your total honesty.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s right,” Delores sighed, drawing her hand across her
face before redirecting her attention to Victoria. “There is more that I need
to tell you. It’s about where our bloodline began.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The dragons?” Victoria asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Delores nodded as she continued. “Another reason I chose to
bind you. You were on the verge of opening a door that would bring back
something the magic world fought hard to keep away.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The Destroyer?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QYc5bUbFWGs/WUiB_zRucTI/AAAAAAAAw04/UTRzCHPM7ncwPv8GrTlTHsb49jeARH9zwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QYc5bUbFWGs/WUiB_zRucTI/AAAAAAAAw04/UTRzCHPM7ncwPv8GrTlTHsb49jeARH9zwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10WsNqaxkXM/WUiCFBtCNCI/AAAAAAAAw08/eyp5-_NimnUW8qeMZ7o2V-kWNYlVdKX-wCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10WsNqaxkXM/WUiCFBtCNCI/AAAAAAAAw08/eyp5-_NimnUW8qeMZ7o2V-kWNYlVdKX-wCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again Delores nodded. “He visited you in the form of a
dragon.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I still dream about him.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s very dangerous, Victoria. He will try to manipulate
you to get what he wants but, you can’t listen to him. He’s evil in the purest
form. It was our blood that put him to rest and it’s through the youngest, you,
he has the chance to return.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“By witch’s blood he will be taken, to witch’s voice he will
awaken,” Victoria repeated the last line of the poem from Loretta’s spellbook. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now do you understand why I was so worried seeing you with
that vampire? If he gets what he wants, Victoria, what all of his kind want,
there are endless possibilities to what he can do.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Like I told you before, Mom, Derrick is not the person you
think he is. He has been trying to help me fight back the Cult trying to
resurrect the Destroyer.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uev53TaTwPs/WUiCG9IEWPI/AAAAAAAAw1A/2dWZzn_cDgw4dkVvD8w8ydRqIW1UWWGbwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uev53TaTwPs/WUiCG9IEWPI/AAAAAAAAw1A/2dWZzn_cDgw4dkVvD8w8ydRqIW1UWWGbwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pAHmKtyNWBc/WUiCIoVtUHI/AAAAAAAAw1M/V-7Wi10OuiM3tNP4qbjzvAlOs3-1PkMlQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pAHmKtyNWBc/WUiCIoVtUHI/AAAAAAAAw1M/V-7Wi10OuiM3tNP4qbjzvAlOs3-1PkMlQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The doorbell rang at the front of the office. Mike and
Victoria had closed up shop for the night and hadn’t expected any late night
clients. Mike started to answer and Victoria gently touched his arm. “I’ll get
it,” she said, excusing herself from the room and rushing for the door. Derrick
stood on her front stoop with a somber expression and she smiled, inviting him
in. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He glanced behind her and noticed Delores seated at the
dining table and refused the invitation and Victoria stepped outside with him.
“What’s up?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m working on a way to get Rowan out of town and I need your
help. I have a plan and if everything works accordingly you and I can get in
front of this thing without the others catching wind. You game?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course. I want him gone just as bad as you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GdEbfmwGUds/WUiCK6UkFvI/AAAAAAAAw1U/_-_pj5YdbjQKwNMc5sfOORtTDoPtBXEDwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GdEbfmwGUds/WUiCK6UkFvI/AAAAAAAAw1U/_-_pj5YdbjQKwNMc5sfOORtTDoPtBXEDwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C7Fyv6VNWR4/WUiCMxO15tI/AAAAAAAAw1Y/qZ32Ah4dDxkYotZdMpUY7yjhU8hM8Cy_ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C7Fyv6VNWR4/WUiCMxO15tI/AAAAAAAAw1Y/qZ32Ah4dDxkYotZdMpUY7yjhU8hM8Cy_ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good. We may also need Mike’s help. Let him know to be
ready then meet me at my place around 9.” Derrick took Victoria against him. Leaning
in, he pressed his mouth to hers, marveling at how velvety soft her lips felt. His
tongue pushed inside her mouth in a searing kiss that left her gasping for air
as he quickly tore himself away. “We’ll get through this together,” he said
once their mouths parted. “I love you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love you, too.” Victoria watched him hop on his bike and
zoom out of the parking lot before heading back inside. The conversation with her
mother had reached its end a little around 8. She’d revealed a few things
Victoria hadn’t known but, for the most part, it wasn’t anything useful. Having
renounced her magic, she wasn’t able to give Victoria the answers she sought.
There was only one person for that and she wasn’t being forthcoming. Ever since
she’d returned from her trip, she was…different. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kl_wib0WDvM/WUiCQgwSjCI/AAAAAAAAw1c/-qTp9s2SqwAADBWZuPxb-uqOyftku3RFQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kl_wib0WDvM/WUiCQgwSjCI/AAAAAAAAw1c/-qTp9s2SqwAADBWZuPxb-uqOyftku3RFQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HwpoyqbKM5U/WUiCRrEcBHI/AAAAAAAAw1k/u63_44H6a1MLYxvTkFPJRGE13AvTVd7hQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HwpoyqbKM5U/WUiCRrEcBHI/AAAAAAAAw1k/u63_44H6a1MLYxvTkFPJRGE13AvTVd7hQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Briefly, Victoria considered sicking Mike on her grandmother
as well but dismissed the thought as she headed home. With Loretta, she had to
be careful. She was, after all, the living matriarch of their magic line. Victoria
made the necessary arrangements and watched the clock until it was time to head
to Derrick’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
His bike was sitting out front and there was a light on in
his front window. An uneasiness washed over her and Victoria shook it off. She
had hesitations about what Derrick may have planned. Rowan was not to be tested.
And someone as old as him would be on the lookout for anything remotely resembling a
trap. But if it meant they would be rid of the mouthy Englishman, she was game. Taking a deep breath, Victoria started inside the house. “Derrick?” she
called.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3b19tXwrqdg/WUiCSrvxddI/AAAAAAAAw1w/SWAvlLndydULGxKWa29vCyFY4qkRckDIQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3b19tXwrqdg/WUiCSrvxddI/AAAAAAAAw1w/SWAvlLndydULGxKWa29vCyFY4qkRckDIQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Kitchen,” he replied. She found him standing beside the
sink, having a drink. The lights were dimmer here than in the front of the home
and she had to squint to make him out. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why are you standing in the dark?” she asked with a laugh,
causing him to flip the switch beside him. “So…what’s this plan?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I don’t really know if you’ll be ok with it.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You said it’ll help us be rid of Rowan and I trust you,
Derrick. If you think it’ll work, it’s worth a try,” she said wrapping her arms
around his neck. Derrick squeezed her sides and smiled stiffly at her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ysAW-umRy58/WUiCWerRY3I/AAAAAAAAw10/_SuFNK9XoREgZFV3JGtT5lFcJqZvvuK-QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ysAW-umRy58/WUiCWerRY3I/AAAAAAAAw10/_SuFNK9XoREgZFV3JGtT5lFcJqZvvuK-QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rH6gwIrDPY/WUiCYDmheZI/AAAAAAAAw14/mTFQJx3quJsB2IgR55xO4-INGIQQgpTtgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5rH6gwIrDPY/WUiCYDmheZI/AAAAAAAAw14/mTFQJx3quJsB2IgR55xO4-INGIQQgpTtgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s just it, Victoria, you shouldn’t trust me,” Derrick
responded pulling away. His hand lingered a moment around her waist as if it
would be the last time he would touch her before he backed completely towards
the counter leaving her standing confused near the island.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What are you talking about?” she giggled and took a step
forward that was mimicked by Derrick’s step back. The look on his face was grim
and left a sheer feeling of dread that took the form of a lump in Victoria’s
throat.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There’s something I need to tell you and it’s something I
should have mentioned earlier.” Instantly Victoria’s heart fell to her stomach
and she held her breath waiting for him to continue. A large gust of wind blew
against the windows, banging the shutters against the walls of the house and
she jumped as the back door flew open.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xy2qKKlz1kM/WUiCZrivAkI/AAAAAAAAw18/EyNxoq0L_t4kt42uES842AwVFLhPl0ODwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xy2qKKlz1kM/WUiCZrivAkI/AAAAAAAAw18/EyNxoq0L_t4kt42uES842AwVFLhPl0ODwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The lights flickered in the kitchen as a dark figure entered
through the door and stood beside Derrick. As the lights came on again Victoria
gasped seeing Rowan standing in front of her. He looked at her with a wide grin
as he took a step but, was halted in place by Derrick’s hand on his arm. The
two exchanged a look before Rowan apparently conceded and remained where he
was. He glanced again in Victoria’s direction and bowed courteously, “It is
nice to see you again, my Dear,” Rowan greeted the detective in his rich
British accent. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, what’s going on?” she demanded; the tone of her voice
hard and unyielding. Her hands balled into fists at the smirk on Rowan’s face
and her gaze flitted between the two vampires, her anger growing the longer
Derrick remained silent.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know you are close to her, Derrick, and it makes it
harder for you to do what needs to be done. With that said, would you like me
to handle this?” Rowan asked, his eyes never leaving Victoria and the defensive
stance she’d placed herself in. He knew she was very capable of casting a spell
to knock them both on their asses and was doing his best to remain aloof so as
not to anger her any more than she already was. He also knew she was on neutral
ground just as he and Derrick had planned; unable to run inside of her
protection shell at home where he and the other vampires in his company could
not enter.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCsw7xrEUgs/WUiCbkh0GAI/AAAAAAAAw2Q/O4z4IwPXGioSEiNsb4bXi-Ww4vGQ5i1TwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zCsw7xrEUgs/WUiCbkh0GAI/AAAAAAAAw2Q/O4z4IwPXGioSEiNsb4bXi-Ww4vGQ5i1TwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick?” Victoria called for him, her voice shaking a
little as her nerves got the better of her. He continued avoiding her gaze,
afraid of seeing the fear in them he knew had taken over. She took a breath,
raising her hands in preparation for what she worried was coming and Rowan
immediately called for Marcel.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t hurt her!” Derrick yelled as the bodyguard rushed
into the kitchen and began manhandling Victoria. She struggled against him,
clawing and biting at his hands but to no avail. Angry eyes caught Derrick as
he opened his mouth again to speak but, he quietly backed behind Rowan as Marcel
hauled Victoria out of his home towards a nondescript black van waiting on the
curb. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyPQYxMPeJQ/WUiCbp-yaJI/AAAAAAAAw2M/ZNyRBwyfBVAMRrBagoB0y6zHf1Sktus1gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cyPQYxMPeJQ/WUiCbp-yaJI/AAAAAAAAw2M/ZNyRBwyfBVAMRrBagoB0y6zHf1Sktus1gCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The moment she was pushed inside she felt herself grow
weaker. A quick look around revealed the source of her sudden wooziness. Three
large arcane crystals were placed in strategic points around the vehicle
keeping Victoria’s magic contained. She tried to rush through the doors in an
attempt to escape and Rowan grinned as he threw her back inside before slipping
into the passenger seat. Derrick slowly stepped inside the van and sat across
from her, again avoiding the daggers he felt her shooting towards him. “Sit back,
Victoria,” Rowan spoke as the driver started up the engine. “This is sort of a
long trip.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/12/64-trial-and-error-pt-2.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-22200743943146545202017-11-05T19:24:00.001-05:002021-05-03T15:07:46.893-04:0062: At the Center of it All – Pt. 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kf13lDF4k0w/WUiBX2x6uNI/AAAAAAAAwy8/C33ZN3UTeVU30_tL2x11h_MZ5CY9RwOKwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kf13lDF4k0w/WUiBX2x6uNI/AAAAAAAAwy8/C33ZN3UTeVU30_tL2x11h_MZ5CY9RwOKwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNNlBhHSl_4/WUiBXSyML-I/AAAAAAAAwy4/cmETzSlXRCQOxyyxYYDuk9gZmoYWu60twCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tNNlBhHSl_4/WUiBXSyML-I/AAAAAAAAwy4/cmETzSlXRCQOxyyxYYDuk9gZmoYWu60twCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I have to say, I was surprised when you called. The last
time we actually got together was just before Mike and I moved in together,”
Aria said, leaning forward in her seat. She and Victoria had met up at the
small café on Brunswick for lunch. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know and I’m sorry. Work is one blurred night into an
unconscious morning. I barely have time for a moment to myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re not the only one. This job keeps me away for long
periods of time now. I’m surprised Mike is so ok with it. Although when I get
back, he shows me just how much I was missed,” she added with a smile before
taking another sip of her mimosa.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kmL4hHi4PGk/WUiBYP0wcZI/AAAAAAAAwzA/ZTZbIHcQvzYbX7770QmolIun9JTbknWtACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kmL4hHi4PGk/WUiBYP0wcZI/AAAAAAAAwzA/ZTZbIHcQvzYbX7770QmolIun9JTbknWtACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well you must be doing something right. I’m just happy to
be able to spend time with the woman my partner won’t shut up about.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really? All good, I hope.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria hid a smile as she took a sip of her mimosa. Aria
was giddy with emotions and they were very visible on her face. “Of course. To
be honest, I’ve never seen him so taken with anyone.” The waitress came around
with the check and as Aria reached for it, Victoria placed her hand over hers.
“I got that,” she said with a smile, quickly scooping it up before Aria had a
chance to grab it. Victoria handed the woman her credit card and waited on her
to return.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdreqvJcFvY/WUiBiQ5TXmI/AAAAAAAAwzQ/b_VbMFrbbaciJ2EhGOPKh_GTn99uhgH0ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RdreqvJcFvY/WUiBiQ5TXmI/AAAAAAAAwzQ/b_VbMFrbbaciJ2EhGOPKh_GTn99uhgH0ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Aria’s phone chimed and she excused herself from the table
to answer. Victoria took the opportunity to check if she had any missed calls
from Derrick as well, frowning seeing no texts or voicemails. Her mind couldn’t
help but wonder how his meeting with Rowan was going. Shooting a quick text to
Mike with the number 6, Victoria shut down the phone and placed it back on the
table as Aria was returning. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0yOy-GeIOw/WUiBioZt8oI/AAAAAAAAwzU/4rLZ0-mlTGQI4T7qax9SaacIAxgRk90vACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-I0yOy-GeIOw/WUiBioZt8oI/AAAAAAAAwzU/4rLZ0-mlTGQI4T7qax9SaacIAxgRk90vACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sorry, that was work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It never ends.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, it does not. It’s like the place goes into panic mode
when I’m away for longer than five minutes,” she sighed. “I really appreciated
this. I needed some girl time.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It was nice. We should try and get together a little more
often.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Definitely,” Aria agreed. “Well, I gotta run. Thanks again
for lunch.” Victoria waved her off and moments later, the waitress returned
with her card.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JrTjuaokMqI/WUiBi1-LjwI/AAAAAAAAwzY/cTfCuqvq_-kYkgEHJSqpZXrk3kBvYfXuwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JrTjuaokMqI/WUiBi1-LjwI/AAAAAAAAwzY/cTfCuqvq_-kYkgEHJSqpZXrk3kBvYfXuwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LaN8FgXBRzA/WUiLMp-gd7I/AAAAAAAAw2g/bK7Y_Tz4Cj00d-lxcAMsWdTbCCgXvBUWwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-07ed.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LaN8FgXBRzA/WUiLMp-gd7I/AAAAAAAAw2g/bK7Y_Tz4Cj00d-lxcAMsWdTbCCgXvBUWwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-07ed.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
As she was preparing to leave, she finally heard her phone
chime. Quickly drawing it from her pocket, Victoria glanced at the message
preview and smiled. It was from Derrick.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoQuote" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Finally broke him. Meet me at Rowan’s. You might want to hear
this.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoQuote">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria slid the phone back into her pocket and rushed for
her jeep. It was times like these she missed her siren and lights. Speeding through the streets of Avondale, she took as many back roads as she could
heading towards Rowan’s manor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tw3Gu8h5sc4/WUiLMo_PLRI/AAAAAAAAw2k/q3GIRRqYrRggfkpgIbNVb8FMaUIXqlv0QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-09ed.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="480" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tw3Gu8h5sc4/WUiLMo_PLRI/AAAAAAAAw2k/q3GIRRqYrRggfkpgIbNVb8FMaUIXqlv0QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-09ed.png" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljgmZF-VMDU/WUiBtBDuasI/AAAAAAAAw2U/6V6udJ3t7tkWsBVzrYI-kMUy3TeeZ2VdgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ljgmZF-VMDU/WUiBtBDuasI/AAAAAAAAw2U/6V6udJ3t7tkWsBVzrYI-kMUy3TeeZ2VdgCEwYBhgL/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she got to the large federal colonial home, she found
it eerily quiet. There were lights on up and downstairs but, she did not detect
movement, nor could she hear anything inside. Grabbing her phone, she shot off
a text to Derrick with her concerns and after waiting a few minutes with no
response, decided to bite the bullet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vl3dEP3gZcE/WUiBtkZ-E3I/AAAAAAAAwz8/qUmQoRJ1n08fqlOuKi8Uxub9uIvjsZenACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vl3dEP3gZcE/WUiBtkZ-E3I/AAAAAAAAwz8/qUmQoRJ1n08fqlOuKi8Uxub9uIvjsZenACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Opening the front door, Victoria entered cautiously and took
a look around. The vampire guards normally posted in the foyer were also
suspiciously absent as well as the large group often found in the den to the
right drinking and playing pool. “Hello?” she said, and heard the word echo
along the hall. The hairs on her arm stood on end and she slowly crept forward
towards Rowan’s study. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yYst0RRnEQs/WUiBtDMCm0I/AAAAAAAAwz0/AjGhgks4BwQ_Oc2VMGLXewwTKBel9twnQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yYst0RRnEQs/WUiBtDMCm0I/AAAAAAAAwz0/AjGhgks4BwQ_Oc2VMGLXewwTKBel9twnQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hhaM5xUh-8I/WUiB2bXbFFI/AAAAAAAAw0Q/mcQMQ_Os3qM-E6t4DdZyjPeY-i9xzdlJgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hhaM5xUh-8I/WUiB2bXbFFI/AAAAAAAAw0Q/mcQMQ_Os3qM-E6t4DdZyjPeY-i9xzdlJgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Inching through the main hall, Victoria noticed blood
splattered along the stair casing and smeared along the wall. Memories of
finding the aftermath of Derrick’s rampage on a previous visit to Rowan’s ran
through her mind and she briefly wondered if he had a hand in the carnage that
lead through the house. The smell of blood was strongest near the end of the
hall, stopping just at the double doors of the study where bloody
hand prints covered the handles and paneling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-usFXdJrx4/WUiB2BHPifI/AAAAAAAAw0M/pjezKx6J46EMhrbchVdrV7bn_BKMUoSKQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e-usFXdJrx4/WUiB2BHPifI/AAAAAAAAw0M/pjezKx6J46EMhrbchVdrV7bn_BKMUoSKQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lmY-iW9nbuc/WUiB2wIltdI/AAAAAAAAw0c/jD0_43LQIBQT8b425n-nzKLcI0-4MdBeACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lmY-iW9nbuc/WUiB2wIltdI/AAAAAAAAw0c/jD0_43LQIBQT8b425n-nzKLcI0-4MdBeACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria removed her sidearm and, with the tip of her boot,
kicked open the door. Rowan sat behind his desk beside a guarded Marcel and seated
Derrick. “Look who’s finally decided to grace us with her presence. I was beginning to think you’d planned to stand outside all day.”</div><div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What the hell is this?” Victoria asked, seeing the distraught
look on Derrick’s face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This? Oh, it’s nothing. My old friend here just had a small
lapse is all.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lapse? The blood?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…” Derrick started and immediately received a blow
from Marcel. Victoria didn’t hesitate, firing a shot at the large vampire,
catching him in the shoulder. He fell back, howling in pain as the specially
designed bullet seared through his flesh. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh-K7OuEuKk/WUiB--RXseI/AAAAAAAAw0o/R5Fg_d2qitEPj-brZSEDRNNu9252tskCQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Eh-K7OuEuKk/WUiB--RXseI/AAAAAAAAw0o/R5Fg_d2qitEPj-brZSEDRNNu9252tskCQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“YOU BITCH!” he growled and charged for her and Rowan was
instantly on his feet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“NO!” he shouted, halting his bodyguard in his tracks. “She
will not be harmed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You ok, Derrick?” she asked, glancing briefly at him before
redirecting her attention to Marcel. He was fuming, staring at the detective as
she inched closer to Derrick. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah,” he said, making no motion to stand. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I got your text.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Whoops. I’m afraid that was me,” Rowan said, waving
Derrick’s phone for Victoria to see. “Sorry about the subterfuge but, Derrick here
refused to ask you to come and well, I just had to see you again.” The entry
wound in Marcel’s shoulder grew inflamed and bruised and he roared as the
cross-etched head burrowed deeper into his flesh. “What did you do to him?”
Rowan asked, seemingly impressed watching his toughest protégé fall to his
knees.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YmhUCPB9-Uo/WUiB-8Rhp5I/AAAAAAAAw0s/1QVWRC0_874v3QZc1iJ8TNCimfqJUtTaQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YmhUCPB9-Uo/WUiB-8Rhp5I/AAAAAAAAw0s/1QVWRC0_874v3QZc1iJ8TNCimfqJUtTaQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Remember those bullets I told you I made?” she asked, not
taking her eyes off of the man. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My, my. Well aren’t you as devious as you are beautiful?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And I have one for you if you don’t tell me what the fuck
is going on,” she said, aiming her weapon at the blonde vampire.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Relax, Victoria,” Derrick said, climbing to his feet. “Put
the gun down.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She looked over at Derrick as though he’d grown a second
head and shook her head, refusing to back down. Rowan smirked, tossing
Derrick’s phone to the desk as he watched him move towards Victoria. “Not until
I have answers. Now someone had better start talking or I will start shooting.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Haven’t you had enough of that for one day, Victoria?”
Rowan asked, the tone of his accent grinding her gears. “I mean, that poor
woman in the park.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-db9IWPryzMo/WUiB_r7je9I/AAAAAAAAw00/kfuU7fnA1w4y-_6F1aqHOXum36zUdV0OQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-db9IWPryzMo/WUiB_r7je9I/AAAAAAAAw00/kfuU7fnA1w4y-_6F1aqHOXum36zUdV0OQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93M_I9zka6E/WUiCH7u1CpI/AAAAAAAAw1E/sYCpbx1SWx0KdQBjw1CbOqXETAtGGusBwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-93M_I9zka6E/WUiCH7u1CpI/AAAAAAAAw1E/sYCpbx1SWx0KdQBjw1CbOqXETAtGGusBwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“RO! NOT NOW!” Derrick yelled, tossing him a quick glance
over his shoulder. When he looked back, he noticed the twitch on Victoria’s
trigger finger and swiftly moved to disarm her. “Please,” he said, shaking free
her weapon and placing it in his waistband. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, now that that’s done, how about a chat like civilized
people?” Rowan asked, moving around his desk.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine. You first. Why is there blood in the hallway?”
Victoria asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh well you can thank Derrick here for that. He decided to
drop a body on my doorstep, your little friend from the park,” he said, with a
nod. “Marcel was just <i>thanking</i> him
for the added work to his already busy schedule.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecWTbzYd8ys/WUiCH3_sIhI/AAAAAAAAw1I/nvVfZSDCoXgv6DPAqpGpvYWZN6I0kN02QCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ecWTbzYd8ys/WUiCH3_sIhI/AAAAAAAAw1I/nvVfZSDCoXgv6DPAqpGpvYWZN6I0kN02QCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7cwG5SYR2gA/WUiCIhWtKkI/AAAAAAAAw1Q/Yg8kV6Fpei4YzHIVux1X9txW0MJVipDrwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7cwG5SYR2gA/WUiCIhWtKkI/AAAAAAAAw1Q/Yg8kV6Fpei4YzHIVux1X9txW0MJVipDrwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what about the park?” Victoria asked moving closer to
Rowan. “What were you trying to prove with your little stunt?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…” In a flash, Victoria reached out and slapped Rowan as hard as she could. His head spun with force and he ran his tongue along
the inside of his cheek before slowly reaching up to touch the spot. “Feel
better?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’d have preferred shooting you and watching you suffer
like Marcel but, it’ll do for now,” she said. Her hand stung but, she refused
to show the pain as she took a step back from him towards Derrick. “Now, go on.
Why did you want me here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“To explain to you that what I did was necessary. Derrick
has coddled you for too long. You need to break free of these restrictive human
emotions to truly embrace your power. Victoria, I won’t make apologies for what
happened last night. If that is why you’ve come then you’ve wasted a trip. I will say, however, that had Derrick done as
promised when he arrived and offered you up when asked, things could have gone
much differently between us.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re a goddamned monster. Stay the fuck away from me,”
she said and started out the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLNjp1nm7O8/WUiCRjm0W8I/AAAAAAAAw1s/pcstQepPHScIdIEws_gyUPSarmR6c5p3ACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZLNjp1nm7O8/WUiCRjm0W8I/AAAAAAAAw1s/pcstQepPHScIdIEws_gyUPSarmR6c5p3ACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kG1ewrpdtAc/WUiCQfxy4uI/AAAAAAAAw1g/e2yppEQ-CvkfpPMqcqHjYV-eKKULaGgDgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kG1ewrpdtAc/WUiCQfxy4uI/AAAAAAAAw1g/e2yppEQ-CvkfpPMqcqHjYV-eKKULaGgDgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick,” Rowan called for his friend before he rushed after
Victoria. He dropped his phone into his hand and walked towards his bar. “It’s
time,” he said, pouring himself a drink and turning to face Derrick who stood
frozen near the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No,” Derrick replied, stepping deeper inside the room. “How
many times do I have to tell you she’s not…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ready? Bollocks! Her little performance in the park proves quite
the opposite.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The hell it does, Rowan. You made her kill an innocent
woman!”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R_WuMGbj8z0/WUiCRrhLQAI/AAAAAAAAw1o/3XlP5bGSB1s5gNVbaBtsYOw9T1gJF_gBQCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-R_WuMGbj8z0/WUiCRrhLQAI/AAAAAAAAw1o/3XlP5bGSB1s5gNVbaBtsYOw9T1gJF_gBQCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn-JiMtO3Nc/WUiCZv3vzhI/AAAAAAAAw2A/Tfcg9mbN4xQhbm5nPniJ4a07hrL9uSQVwCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tn-JiMtO3Nc/WUiCZv3vzhI/AAAAAAAAw2A/Tfcg9mbN4xQhbm5nPniJ4a07hrL9uSQVwCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
“Innocent?” Rowan scoffed before taking a swig of the amber liquid in his glass. “When are you gonna learn, old friend, no one is truly innocent. Victoria is a witch, one with great powers. You and I both came here with the same intentions of finding her and using her for that very reason. The only difference is, I’m not blinded by some idiotic notion of love. She’ll do what she needs, or else. I’ve already called the necessary people and <i>they</i> will be expecting delivery…soon.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
Derrick growled and started forward, fists balled and an
angry glower on his face. “You son of a…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
“Now, now, Derrick, mind yourself. I <i>let</i> you hit me before. I will not allow you to walk away again should
your temper get the best of you. We both knew this day was coming. Some of us
are just better prepared for it than others,” he smirked and downed the rest of
his drink before setting the glass on the bar. “So. Might I suggest you get
your affairs in order? You have two days.” </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9VYZ7DJrLrQ/WUiCaqezK8I/AAAAAAAAw2I/1jRX2rzM4fsUiu-yvo_-DCek2AYboRaNgCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9VYZ7DJrLrQ/WUiCaqezK8I/AAAAAAAAw2I/1jRX2rzM4fsUiu-yvo_-DCek2AYboRaNgCLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dt9auyXkaXk/WUiCaHyKgSI/AAAAAAAAw2E/yAgegaWhF1YWt92VYEj0xeHOodpdGshYACLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dt9auyXkaXk/WUiCaHyKgSI/AAAAAAAAw2E/yAgegaWhF1YWt92VYEj0xeHOodpdGshYACLcBGAs/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick stormed from the room without looking back and Rowan
glanced at Marcel. “What are you doing down there? Get up.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She shot me!”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you’ll heal. Or not if you don’t stop
bleeding all over my floor!” Marcel pulled himself up and painfully schlepped
out of the office. “Embarrassing.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/11/63-trial-and-error-pt-1.html">Continue----></a></div>
</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-24097658571937520142016-05-22T12:37:00.000-04:002017-11-06T20:52:34.977-05:0061: At the Center of it All – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yekQuGv5egI/V0GqF8WPw1I/AAAAAAAAvRo/QOc7dGGCwfIKLguNxmSL0h98JQ16zdnYQCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yekQuGv5egI/V0GqF8WPw1I/AAAAAAAAvRo/QOc7dGGCwfIKLguNxmSL0h98JQ16zdnYQCLcB/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come on,” Derrick said standing and taking Victoria by the
hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where are we going?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“To my place. You want answers and I think I know how to get
them.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What is this?” Victoria asked, peering through the glass of
the door in Derrick’s basement. “Derrick? We can’t…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We can and we will,” he said, pushing through the door and
into the room. The man dangling from the wall looked up at the sound of
footsteps approaching.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZTDZsumVJg/V0GqCPgG5DI/AAAAAAAAvRk/vml5yuVCy_IzOe39wuZ--xrhZDtsG6xxQCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2ZTDZsumVJg/V0GqCPgG5DI/AAAAAAAAvRk/vml5yuVCy_IzOe39wuZ--xrhZDtsG6xxQCLcB/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4-9FHBY9zc/V0Gp9bqeBrI/AAAAAAAAvRg/kVI2ScANDGk7uYdFKkCYgjkzSmeohfidwCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J4-9FHBY9zc/V0Gp9bqeBrI/AAAAAAAAvRg/kVI2ScANDGk7uYdFKkCYgjkzSmeohfidwCLcB/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Let me out of here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re not going anywhere until we get some answers.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then you might as well kill me now,” the man spat back.
“I’ll never talk!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We’ll see about that.” Derrick moved towards a table set up
near the door. Pulling back a small green cloth, he methodically slid his
fingers across the stainless steel equipment meticulously laid out on a
surgical napkin before making a selection. The blade of the scalpel glinted in
the flickering fluorescent light and the cultist’s eyes widened in fear as he
strode towards him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOwNVsRvTD4/V0GqIrzKRHI/AAAAAAAAvRs/dEqXE-6BX3MjeX8QOjTI1ZmR1Qf9dkJAwCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SOwNVsRvTD4/V0GqIrzKRHI/AAAAAAAAvRs/dEqXE-6BX3MjeX8QOjTI1ZmR1Qf9dkJAwCLcB/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, Derrick, I can’t let you do this,” Victoria said,
stopping him as he closed in on the shackled cultist. A smile formed on the
man’s face and he laughed as the vampire backed away. “It wasn’t you that
psycho tried to kill. I’ll do it,” she stated firmly, taking the scalpel from
his hand. The smile quickly faded from the man’s face as he felt the burn of
the blade sink viciously and fast into his stomach. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT9zorIiE7A/V0GqM1qB3CI/AAAAAAAAvRw/6uPhBcOPZKIZBEt061kHjx4RguX2LfNiQCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UT9zorIiE7A/V0GqM1qB3CI/AAAAAAAAvRw/6uPhBcOPZKIZBEt061kHjx4RguX2LfNiQCLcB/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JLM8TsHTKK4/V0GqN5ebnxI/AAAAAAAAvR0/RNOngcQg9v443Ka2O1HvMFcIXhU1wAYCgCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JLM8TsHTKK4/V0GqN5ebnxI/AAAAAAAAvR0/RNOngcQg9v443Ka2O1HvMFcIXhU1wAYCgCLcB/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He yelled, the sound of it echoing around the room. Derrick
stood back, a little impressed albeit a little afraid watching Victoria take
charge of torturing their prisoner. Fire blazed in her eyes as she watched the
man jerk back, fearing another stab to the gut. But instead of lunging into him
again, she dropped the penknife and pressed a hand to his wound. Pain jolted
through him as the laceration healed beneath her touch and a tear fell from the
man’s eyes.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria backed up and the cultist glanced down at the spot
the blade penetrated his skin and let out a breath. “Now that you know what I
can do, let’s talk about what you can do for me.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtXfjY5kFm4/V0GqTmnLJFI/AAAAAAAAvR4/0CD9KHNISVkz8nCOGwcImNduwqTKmG3BQCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JtXfjY5kFm4/V0GqTmnLJFI/AAAAAAAAvR4/0CD9KHNISVkz8nCOGwcImNduwqTKmG3BQCLcB/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What…do you want?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Isn’t it obvious? I want to know who sent you after me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I give you that I’m dead either way.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hmm. Sounds like you need a little more incentive,” Derrick
said inching closer. “What do you say we kick it up a notch?” He grinned and
Victoria saw the fleeting look in his eyes as his inner demon flickered
briefly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVqX1dfIWiY/V0GqXMPXehI/AAAAAAAAvSA/T0kqidsjjq49bZYUpSew-wLJXCapUXhqwCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QVqX1dfIWiY/V0GqXMPXehI/AAAAAAAAvSA/T0kqidsjjq49bZYUpSew-wLJXCapUXhqwCLcB/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XZdzAQcj55U/V0GqVF2IAII/AAAAAAAAvR8/XQGqeQahWqQtyJsNC1Sv2R4HAUN8p4wJgCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XZdzAQcj55U/V0GqVF2IAII/AAAAAAAAvR8/XQGqeQahWqQtyJsNC1Sv2R4HAUN8p4wJgCLcB/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iG5Ya5V5Zz0/V0GqcUIeHMI/AAAAAAAAvSE/-6WUApTlvW0N9DGZPxYUCEiEYJMEMkMKACLcB/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iG5Ya5V5Zz0/V0GqcUIeHMI/AAAAAAAAvSE/-6WUApTlvW0N9DGZPxYUCEiEYJMEMkMKACLcB/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“DERRICK, DON’T!” Victoria shouted, but his fangs had
already pierced the neck of the uncooperative cultist. The man screamed as
Derrick’s venom seeped into his veins, roasting him from the inside out. Blood
squirted and ran down the side of the man’s neck, trickling down and over his
chest before dripping at his feet. Victoria watched in shock as Derrick’s
red eyes burned brighter and brighter. When he finally pulled away, blood
dripped down his face onto his shirt and he turned to her with a smile.
“Derrick?”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Relax, Victoria, I’m still me,” he said, spitting a
mouthful of blood to the floor.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What the hell were you thinking?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In five minutes, ask him,” he replied before exiting the
room. With a final look towards their captive, she swiftly chased after him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4ymYf-Lz6g/V0GqfOZKc5I/AAAAAAAAvSI/mK_6KF1Mq5spwSayL23b8ZiQyzOHHWjowCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a4ymYf-Lz6g/V0GqfOZKc5I/AAAAAAAAvSI/mK_6KF1Mq5spwSayL23b8ZiQyzOHHWjowCLcB/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick?” she called his name, striding briskly behind him
trying to catch up. “DERRICK!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“WHAT?!” he shouted in return.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Give me your hand.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s not necessary, Victoria.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It is for my peace of mind. Now please, Derrick, don’t make
me ask again.” She waited with her hand extended for him to comply. With a
sigh, he edged forward, placing his hand in hers. Victoria encircled his hand,
closed her eyes and began invoking. “Vade, daemonia. Dimattam anima vestra ad
infernum. Exsolvo.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uPZK0vYEb8/V0Gqh0S6tOI/AAAAAAAAvSM/ZT76I70Eqmk3POBXI29jCQyEX5Yvfb0_ACLcB/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_uPZK0vYEb8/V0Gqh0S6tOI/AAAAAAAAvSM/ZT76I70Eqmk3POBXI29jCQyEX5Yvfb0_ACLcB/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
They watched as a black cloud snaked out of his mouth,
wafted momentarily above his head and vanished into thin air. “Can you maybe
warn me before you do something stupid like that again?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh you mean sort of like you warned me before running off
half-cocked into the middle of a trap in the dead of night?” he retorted. “I
thought reckless behavior was tonight’s theme. I was just following your lead.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright, Derrick, I get it. It was foolish of me to not
mention the meeting at the park. I just thought…well I knew you’d try and stop
me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1URD6LanA5w/V0GqnubuLqI/AAAAAAAAvSQ/jzDVlDLw_fEvtaEja2d74rJoMTtjxJBowCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1URD6LanA5w/V0GqnubuLqI/AAAAAAAAvSQ/jzDVlDLw_fEvtaEja2d74rJoMTtjxJBowCLcB/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re damn right I would have! I felt it was a trap from
the moment you mentioned it but I still tagged along because despite my best
efforts I knew you wouldn’t have listened. Victoria, I know you’re growing more
and more in your powers and you may feel invincible but the truth of the matter
is you’re not. No matter how indestructible you feel, no matter how impervious
your best protection spell may be there will always be someone bigger, badder
and stronger that will come along and test you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Like tonight.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Exactly,” he sighed and pulled her closer. “I don’t mean to
scold you like some child but it’s the only way I can get through to you. I
love that you’re exploring your magic but you have me and you have Mike, we’re
here for a reason. Use us.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1q1h94xu-M/V0Gqp2XEUEI/AAAAAAAAvSU/AWgHBCrFMn0839ti6rdlLBfpKQFCFLGsQCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D1q1h94xu-M/V0Gqp2XEUEI/AAAAAAAAvSU/AWgHBCrFMn0839ti6rdlLBfpKQFCFLGsQCLcB/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right,” she breathed and dropped her head to his shoulder.
“So. What now?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now we see how well my plan worked. That toxin has to be
raging hell inside our little friend and I’m sure he’ll be begging for relief. Let’s
see if it’s loosened his lips any.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Water…please…” the cultist stammered, trying to lift his
head high enough to look at Derrick.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Water is for good little boys and girls only,” he teased,
kneeling in front of him. “Tell us what we want to know and <i>maybe</i> you’ll get yourself a glass of
water. If not, I’ll stand here and watch as your organs liquefy and you start
bleeding from every orifice.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Rowan,” the cultist mumbled, nearly sobbing as the pain worsened.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--A8mIfoqA9Y/V0Gqsq9FACI/AAAAAAAAvSY/cvRgYMhhHrYUodDeZNdaAC1MzOYPb6C7ACLcB/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--A8mIfoqA9Y/V0Gqsq9FACI/AAAAAAAAvSY/cvRgYMhhHrYUodDeZNdaAC1MzOYPb6C7ACLcB/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excuse me?” Derrick asked, unsure of what he’d heard. “Come
again?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“ROWAN!” he shouted, dropping his head to his chest. “He
sent us after the girl.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean Victoria?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. He wanted to test her.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Test me?” Victoria repeated and moved closer. “Test me for
what?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Water, please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. Answers now, water later. Is Rowan responsible for what
happened to the woman in the park? The one in the raincoat.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And that jogger?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMjN7nsrXiQ/V0GqzFmA7VI/AAAAAAAAvSk/9ZvgvhFih18FkUOm_ewxgxN6hfD29LznACLcB/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bMjN7nsrXiQ/V0GqzFmA7VI/AAAAAAAAvSk/9ZvgvhFih18FkUOm_ewxgxN6hfD29LznACLcB/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaV-mW7jqzQ/V0GqzI-aBZI/AAAAAAAAvSg/llTAeIqzr-stZpqI4gF8brI8mrKaU5oVwCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CaV-mW7jqzQ/V0GqzI-aBZI/AAAAAAAAvSg/llTAeIqzr-stZpqI4gF8brI8mrKaU5oVwCLcB/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She was hexed. I don’t know. He had some friend of his
help. All I know is he wanted to see how you’d react to her death.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you saying he’s been behind these murders the whole
time?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. The park was a copycat. We don’t know who’s responsible
for the previous murders. We were told to make it look like the others to draw
you out. I’m not really a cultist. My name is Jerry, Jerry Harrell. I’m just an
initiate.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An initiate? What’s that?” Victoria asked, gazing at
Derrick.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An initiate is a human, aware of our kind, who…for the lack
of a better term, pledges, to be turned,” Derrick answered, turning to her with
a frown. “Victoria, I know what this is about.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well do you mind filling me in?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8_GRT2Mdkw/V0Gq2W7UK5I/AAAAAAAAvSo/0S3H9JwE7FY6CYGpVLsaLaCGrEykMu4-wCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t8_GRT2Mdkw/V0Gq2W7UK5I/AAAAAAAAvSo/0S3H9JwE7FY6CYGpVLsaLaCGrEykMu4-wCLcB/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Taking her by the arm, Derrick led Victoria from the room,
shutting the door behind him. “The witch trials.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean Salem?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. Every five years there is a tournament of sorts held
for newly minted magical beings. It’s been going on for maybe the last century.
The Keepers have been searching for someone capable of preventing the Cult of
the Damned from summoning the Destroyer.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s what you told me when we first met.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So we’re coming full circle. Rowan is in town for me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YwgVbv3WYHo/V0Gq77vV2pI/AAAAAAAAvSs/6oLFit11MoYgPL-u-I0NJChb2p3SypY5wCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YwgVbv3WYHo/V0Gq77vV2pI/AAAAAAAAvSs/6oLFit11MoYgPL-u-I0NJChb2p3SypY5wCLcB/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you’ve known this since the day he popped into
Dante’s.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t,” she said, waving off his attempt to apologize or
offer up an excuse. “So what do we do now?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now, I need you to keep your plans with Aria.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? You’ve got to be kidding me! Not three hours ago I murdered
someone in cold blood, Derrick! And now when we’re finally on to something you
expect me to what? Pretend as though everything is normal and have lunch with
Aria?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cj1btJaoO0Q/V0Gq8DQPocI/AAAAAAAAvSw/llWjJ7Wv_IQZA8EFxaskbypWEKvIxBO8QCLcB/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cj1btJaoO0Q/V0Gq8DQPocI/AAAAAAAAvSw/llWjJ7Wv_IQZA8EFxaskbypWEKvIxBO8QCLcB/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, Victoria, that’s exactly what I want you to do.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh. I get it. You need me out of the way. So while I’m out
with Mike’s future wife, what are you going to be doing?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Taking care of an old friend.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I want to be there for that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. It’s best you stay as far away from this as possible.”
Victoria started to say something but Derrick gave her a look and added,
“Please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine. But none of this ‘in the dark’ bullshit. I want to
know everything that’s happening, Derrick. I mean it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I promise. I’ll call you when I know more.”<br />
<br />
“What about him?” she asked, referring to the man still chained to Derrick’s wall.<br />
<br />
“I’ll take care of him.” The words had an ominous feel to them, but Victoria hesitated to ask what exactly Derrick’s plans were. Instead she nodded, thanked him and started upstairs.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Author’s note: “Vade, daemonia. Dimattam anima vestra ad
infernum. Exsolvo” means “Go demons. I
release your soul to hell. Release” in Latin.*<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2017/11/62-at-center-of-it-all-pt-3.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-10839412336573780222016-03-06T18:00:00.001-05:002022-03-13T07:26:10.442-04:0060: At the Center of it All – Pt. 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PD7SAkrAQ3o/VtuUbGUhOmI/AAAAAAAAuXI/U1hJ7HNfK0Y/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PD7SAkrAQ3o/VtuUbGUhOmI/AAAAAAAAuXI/U1hJ7HNfK0Y/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Going somewhere?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“GEEZ!” Victoria turned with a start, placing a hand over
her heart. “Derrick…you scared the crap out of me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sorry. Didn’t mean to.” He loomed in the doorway with the
glass he’d fetched from the kitchen, watching as she finished dressing. A smile
crept on his face as he listened to her rapid heartbeat and he set his drink on
the nightstand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll never get used to that,” she exhaled and looked back
at the mirror and the absence of his reflection beside her. Touching a hand to
her face, she puckered her lips and gently brushed her cheek. “Do you ever miss it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sometimes,” he answered, watching as she primped herself.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LutlWhDrjQ/VtuUj51nB5I/AAAAAAAAuXU/92ZB5zCWq44/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5LutlWhDrjQ/VtuUj51nB5I/AAAAAAAAuXU/92ZB5zCWq44/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do you remember what you look like?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“More or less,” he replied, pausing briefly he looked at
Victoria through narrowed eyes before shaking his head. “No. I told you before
I don’t like spells cast on me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not on you,” she grinned. “The mirror. And it’s really
minor. Reflexio revelare!” She invoked before he could offer up more of a
protest. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mirror began to glow and Derrick stepped closer as an
image slowly appeared in front of him. His eyes opened wider once it was
finished and he froze at once. “Whoa…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’ll only last a minute so…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZJL5pzL46Q/VtuUiusHzII/AAAAAAAAuXQ/7B8LGHRvyic/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_ZJL5pzL46Q/VtuUiusHzII/AAAAAAAAuXQ/7B8LGHRvyic/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is this how my hair usually looks?” he asked, moving his
hands through his dark mane and then over his face and chest as he checked
himself out for the first time in a few centuries. “This is how you see me?”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not what you remember?” He opened his mouth and examined
his fangs and tongue. Pulling at his eyelids he inched forward and studied his
eyes, his eye color and his hairline. Skirting his hands down his sides, he chuckled
and touched the definition of his abs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Damn!” he exclaimed, inspecting his chiseled chest and
tracing the lines of his tattoos. “No wonder you can’t keep your hands off of me.
I’d want to be naked as much as possible with this too,” he smirked and reveled
in the devilish glint in his eyes. And just as he began tugging at the buckle of his jeans, the image started to fade.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MW_6F5i2pW4/VtuUgITIjyI/AAAAAAAAuXM/NDNUrt10r-Q/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MW_6F5i2pW4/VtuUgITIjyI/AAAAAAAAuXM/NDNUrt10r-Q/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He looked over at Victoria with a frown before pulling her
against him and giving her a soft, sensual kiss. “Thank you. That was really nice.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re welcome, Derrick,” she sighed and pulled away.
Grabbing her keys from the nightstand, Victoria started for the door, stopping
as Derrick again called for her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You never told me where you were headed.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Pierson Bay; I got a message on the Moonlight voicemail from a client
asking me to meet her. She didn’t leave very many details but I
figured I’d check it out.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wILfpPjlhn4/VtuUmyZTXgI/AAAAAAAAuXY/2XpkWog_WdA/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wILfpPjlhn4/VtuUmyZTXgI/AAAAAAAAuXY/2XpkWog_WdA/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89o1pkJSiC8/VtuUuc6wOhI/AAAAAAAAuXc/dwDIQa4iFjU/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89o1pkJSiC8/VtuUuc6wOhI/AAAAAAAAuXc/dwDIQa4iFjU/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Wait. You received a mysterious phone call asking you to
come to a park alone at night and you’re going? Did part of your brain leak out
in the shower? That’s crazy! You have a threat looming over your head and
there’s no telling where or when this guy will strike next and you’re giving
him the perfect opportunity!”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Geez, you and Mike really need to lighten up. I’m not
helpless. I’m taking my gun not to mention my magic and if that’s not enough,”
she said, opening a metal nail file on her keyring. Victoria stabbed at her
heart with the object and Derrick watched as it bent upon contact, unable to
penetrate her skin. “I’ve cast a protection spell on myself. See. Not crazy. Just…curious.
But, if it’ll make you feel better, you’re more than welcomed to tag along.
Here,” Victoria tossed her keys at him and he caught them with his right hand.
“You can even drive. I know how much you love playing chauffeur.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-crxrhWX1aec/VtuUwyRzwAI/AAAAAAAAuXg/c4UpyGOp544/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-crxrhWX1aec/VtuUwyRzwAI/AAAAAAAAuXg/c4UpyGOp544/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JyGcWRqTZhc/VtuU0Kg5D4I/AAAAAAAAuXk/hCDhgfAVJ14/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JyGcWRqTZhc/VtuU0Kg5D4I/AAAAAAAAuXk/hCDhgfAVJ14/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A steady April rain shower pattered on the windshield. Water
dripped down the passenger window creating small streaks in the drips that had
clustered on the glass and Victoria stared out through the clear spots as the
scenery went by. It was only 5:00 p.m. and already almost full dark outside.
Low clouds and a misty, Avondale drizzle cloaked the city and traffic became a
watery blur behind rain-streaked windows. Thunder rolled across the sky and
Victoria rubbed a hand over her arm, smoothing out the goosebumps the scare had
caused.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Pierson Bay Park was only a twenty minute drive from
Derrick’s place and even with the wet conditions on the road he’d somehow
managed to get them there in ten. Raindrops plunked into puddles as they pulled
into the parking lot. Sliding out of the passenger seat, Victoria unfolded her
umbrella, kicking herself for not bringing her raincoat, and glanced over at
Derrick. He stood unprotected beneath the downpour as if the water had
no effect on him whatsoever. “Stay close,” he said before leading the way through the
gate.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W_zeRArdtXE/VtuVGpR9pJI/AAAAAAAAuXw/VXDsyZ_0SOk/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W_zeRArdtXE/VtuVGpR9pJI/AAAAAAAAuXw/VXDsyZ_0SOk/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Keeping his head on a swivel, Derrick’s eyes fell on every
dark corner of the vast field in front of him where he felt Victoria’s killer
may be lurking in the shadows. Thoughts sifted silently like smoke through his
mind as he contemplated the many things that could go wrong. If he’d been
smarter, he’d have tried harder to talk her out of this senseless meeting.
However, he knew how stubborn Victoria could be and had he tried to stop her,
she’d have likely slipped out the back door when his guard was down. At least
this way he was with her.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihsqTZrYjrc/VtuVOICnjfI/AAAAAAAAuX4/94KiCq2G3Hw/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ihsqTZrYjrc/VtuVOICnjfI/AAAAAAAAuX4/94KiCq2G3Hw/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
They stopped between two benches near the fountain at the center of the park and Victoria took a moment to gather herself. The night had closed in around them and without the dim glow of the lamps above her she’d barely be able to make out her hand in front of her face. Turning towards Derrick again, Victoria started to say something but paused. Derrick’s hand shot up, silencing her before she could utter a word. He stood beside her, waiting, watching for signs of movement and stilled as something snared his attention.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2mzOAx6ULs/VtuVBFmnEPI/AAAAAAAAuXo/WNzYyc1C8Us/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L2mzOAx6ULs/VtuVBFmnEPI/AAAAAAAAuXo/WNzYyc1C8Us/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rubbing, the whiskers on his chin Derrick motioned for
Victoria to stay put and slowly made his way forward, being as quiet as
possible. She watched as he investigated the area near the playground before
disappearing behind the restrooms. Her hand moved to the weapon on her hip and
she unhooked the buckle. A flash of lightning lit up the woods around her and with
the light slowly waning, her eyes struggled to adjust. As time ticked on,
Victoria grew more distressed and as her eyes finally dilated she realized
someone was standing in front of her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-VeyW63uZE/VtuVHMk96TI/AAAAAAAAuX0/5ftZnm3LPQk/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V-VeyW63uZE/VtuVHMk96TI/AAAAAAAAuX0/5ftZnm3LPQk/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derr…” she gasped, her mouth opening to form his name and
just then, she was grabbed from behind. Slipping on the wet cement, Victoria
landed hard on her side, her gun fell from its holster and clanked to the
ground beside her. She looked up through a haze as her attacker started towards
her. Rolling to her stomach, she quickly crawled forward, reaching for her
fallen weapon and felt a hand wrap around her ankle and yank her back. “Derr…!”
Her words were again cut short as a heavy fist plowed into her jaw.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Agl7pUspFoM/VtuVSxa2otI/AAAAAAAAuYE/f8tbK8BeQZ8/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Agl7pUspFoM/VtuVSxa2otI/AAAAAAAAuYE/f8tbK8BeQZ8/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Victoria’s head snapped back and she closed her eyes as she waited for the pain…but it never came. As the stranger’s hand made contact with her face, he was thrown back into the benches behind her. <i>The protection spell</i>, she thought as she got to her feet and rushed for her gun. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted movement again and slid the safety off with her thumb. As Victoria turned and aimed, she watched as a black blur tumbled to the ground at her feet. There was a brief struggle before Derrick stood and started towards her.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pd5QLS8d5SM/VtuVS_y3zDI/AAAAAAAAuYA/VlbHZ8HaspI/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pd5QLS8d5SM/VtuVS_y3zDI/AAAAAAAAuYA/VlbHZ8HaspI/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you alright?” he asked, checking her for injuries.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m fine,” she sighed, dropping her weapon to her side.
“How did you know?” He pointed to the bracelet on her wrist. Even in the
murkiness of night she could see it had changed to a bright yellow color,
signaling for Derrick’s prompt arrival. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you sure you’re alright?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. I’m just a little shaken, that’s all. The spell worked. He couldn’t hurt me.” She holstered her weapon and moved behind Derrick as he rolled the mystery man on his back. “Is he dead?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No just…out cold.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OBEMCtxYICo/VtuVonzrL9I/AAAAAAAAuYU/1Khw7QhUpLY/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OBEMCtxYICo/VtuVonzrL9I/AAAAAAAAuYU/1Khw7QhUpLY/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pwrhUNe39mo/VtuVf5B29GI/AAAAAAAAuYM/Wp1wwW3TwfM/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pwrhUNe39mo/VtuVf5B29GI/AAAAAAAAuYM/Wp1wwW3TwfM/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Who is it?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“From the looks of it, another cult member. I guess they’re
not too happy that you stopped the ritual.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Great. As if I didn’t already have enough to deal with.
There were two. Did you see the other one?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I didn’t see anyone else, I probably scared him off but given what happened the last time they came after you it doesn’t surprise me that they’d be working in pairs,” Derrick sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. “And that’s not all. The woman you were coming to meet. Did she say what
she would be wearing?”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
“Yeah. She said to look for a yellow raincoat.” He nodded as
though he’d expected the answer and stood.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MO0zNztwbxg/VtuVf-H2fYI/AAAAAAAAuYQ/fhSlG6EbQIY/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MO0zNztwbxg/VtuVf-H2fYI/AAAAAAAAuYQ/fhSlG6EbQIY/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There’s something I think you should see.” Derrick led her
behind the restroom and just beyond the duck pond. Huddled beside a tree on the
opposite side of the water was a body; draped in a yellow raincoat. “Is that
her?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Damn,” Victoria sighed as she knelt beside Derrick to get a
closer look. “She sounded scared on the call. I guess I can see why. What
happened to her? She looks…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Exsanguinated,” Derrick completed her sentence. “She’s been
completely drained of blood. Remind you of anyone?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. It couldn’t be. He doesn’t have what he needs to
complete the spell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Doesn’t matter. Victoria, this was a trap. And I think it
would be prudent if you and I got the hell out of here right now.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. I’m with you on that.” Victoria led the way towards
the jeep with Derrick close behind.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMx_njzKaVk/VtuVqrZg0wI/AAAAAAAAuYY/iEAq46hHtVU/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nMx_njzKaVk/VtuVqrZg0wI/AAAAAAAAuYY/iEAq46hHtVU/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The rain fell harder and she quickened her pace to match.
Evidence of the homicide was being washed away with every drop of water that
fell. The police would have no chance of solving that poor woman’s murder
without a little help. “Wait. We need to call someone,” Victoria said, reaching
for her phone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick placed his hand over hers, stilling her actions. “First,
we get out of here and then you can make an anonymous call from my place.” She
nodded and again started after him. Another flash of lightning sparked close by
and Victoria gasped as the shapes of three more figures illuminated along the
tree line.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, there,” she said, motioning to the area in which
they’d appeared. He turned in time to see the outlines of the unknown persons
moving towards them. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FskfO0lYiQc/VtuVrjFN-ZI/AAAAAAAAuYg/TxOOGXVyQ4U/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FskfO0lYiQc/VtuVrjFN-ZI/AAAAAAAAuYg/TxOOGXVyQ4U/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, get to the jeep, hurry!” She ran, pumping her
legs as fast as she could with Derrick right on her heels. “Move!” he shouted
as hurried footsteps echoed around them. Victoria withdrew her gun, quickly
thumbing the safety once more as she prepared herself for combat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She picked up movement over her left shoulder and without
hesitation, she turned and aimed. “Victoria, no!” Derrick shouted. But Victoria
heard it a little too late. Her finger pulled back on the trigger and he
watched as a bullet whizzed through the air instantly connecting with the side
of the woman’s head. The girl spun once, her neck making a stomach-churning
crack before her eyes rolled to the back of her head and her body hit the
pavement with a loud thump.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCwEzUGiJyA/VtuV2DzbdDI/AAAAAAAAuYk/MaKMfA1qfEE/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZCwEzUGiJyA/VtuV2DzbdDI/AAAAAAAAuYk/MaKMfA1qfEE/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick rushed over, moving to the unconscious victim lying
in a lifeless heap in the dirt. Victoria stood over them, mouth wide open, eyes
denoting shock as she watched Derrick check for signs of life. “She’s gone.” He
looked up at her, shaking his head no and immediately Victoria backed away,
crumbling to the ground as her stomach lurched. Puke churned upwards through
her chest, burning the back of her throat and she held back the need to
vomit as she stared at the woman in front of her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What have I done?” she asked once Derrick fell to her side,
pulling her against him as he tried comforting her. “How could I have…I killed
her.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yw61nsxMnaI/VtuWHwsZfcI/AAAAAAAAuYw/qJSw9qK1H4k/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yw61nsxMnaI/VtuWHwsZfcI/AAAAAAAAuYw/qJSw9qK1H4k/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
“No, Victoria, it was an accident.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“An accident? She’s dead, Derrick.” She stood up, pushing
herself away from him before trying to move on shaky legs towards the body. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Stop, I have to see her. I have to help her!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She’s gone, Victoria! There’s no helping her now. The only
thing you need to do is get out of here before someone sees you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQYT-ce7zIw/VtuWHmelRTI/AAAAAAAAuYs/o8Pc1FpSh0M/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQYT-ce7zIw/VtuWHmelRTI/AAAAAAAAuYs/o8Pc1FpSh0M/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” she asked, looking up at him in shock as he thumbed
her hair behind her ear. “How can you say that? Let them see! I did this! I
have to do something!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, stop, think about this. You’ll be throwing your
life away over something that couldn’t have been helped. Please, listen to me.
Go home. I’ll take care of this.”<br />
<br />
“But…the blood. What if you…?”<br />
<br />
“I'll be fine.” Derrick spoke calmly, watching her eyes moving
constantly as she thought over the situation. “Victoria!” he nearly shouted,
shaking her in his arms to gain her attention. “Go home.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick released his grasp and Victoria nodded slowly while
backing away from him towards the clearing. He watched as she disappeared
through the thick brush of trees, making it safely to her car before pulling
away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTuFSBVC0lU/VtubPabDF0I/AAAAAAAAuZU/3tmhfB72NfY/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bTuFSBVC0lU/VtubPabDF0I/AAAAAAAAuZU/3tmhfB72NfY/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” Derrick called for her as he entered the front
door. Ducking around the corner, he found her pacing back and forth in her
living room. A bottle of wine set opened on the bar and two glasses set on
the table beside her. “Hey. What are you doing? Why are you here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What do you mean? You told me to come here. You said ‘go
home’ so I did.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah but I meant…nevermind. What is all this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A spell, or rather the messy conclusion of one.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“A spell for what, Victoria?” Derrick asked, seeing instances
of black magic scattered beside the other mystical ingredients on the floor.
“Victoria, PLEASE tell me you didn’t do what I think you did. You’re not trying
to bring that woman back from the dead?!”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Go6KhDlHrnQ/VtuWRCIRD1I/AAAAAAAAuY4/x2C5khf7154/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Go6KhDlHrnQ/VtuWRCIRD1I/AAAAAAAAuY4/x2C5khf7154/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, Derrick! I’m not. I wouldn’t…I just…I don’t understand.”
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Understand what? She was in the wrong place at the wrong
time. This wasn’t your fault, Victoria. It was just an unfortunate mistake.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. There’s more to it than that,” she said, pointing to
the ground. “This was a memory spell. I needed to see how I could have made
such an awful…but I didn’t, Derrick. She wasn’t there. I’ve been replaying it
over and over in my head and she’s NOT there!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, you need to try and get some rest. You’re not
making any sense.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can’t,” she sobbed, and fell to the couch. “Someone is
dead, Derrick, and it’s because of me! Only I don’t think it is.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-auZ14ejk5lM/VtuWRu2NpCI/AAAAAAAAuY8/ZcclQoe70-w/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-auZ14ejk5lM/VtuWRu2NpCI/AAAAAAAAuY8/ZcclQoe70-w/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok,” he said, kneeling down in front of her. “Let’s try
this again. What did the spell show you exactly?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You and I were running from more of those cloaked psychos,
one of them caught up to us. It was raining pretty hard but I could still see
it very clearly. It was a cultist, not a jogger. I turned and fired and the
cloak dissipated and…it was her.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And that still doesn’t make sense. The only way you and I
could have both seen the same thing is if…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Someone is using magic to set me up. What I don’t get is
why?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Author’s note: Reflexio revelare means “Reveal Reflection”
in Latin.*<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2016/05/61-at-center-of-it-all-pt-2.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-45787971478510069722016-02-14T22:34:00.001-05:002016-02-14T22:34:25.913-05:00Be Mine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvFzEO6FUdo/VsFFvZGZ2AI/AAAAAAAAuNk/gKxVPlpqTMU/s1600/CB1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pvFzEO6FUdo/VsFFvZGZ2AI/AAAAAAAAuNk/gKxVPlpqTMU/s640/CB1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz5elIUQWes/VsFFt76_UgI/AAAAAAAAuNg/4fFcahmtQgs/s1600/CB2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xz5elIUQWes/VsFFt76_UgI/AAAAAAAAuNg/4fFcahmtQgs/s640/CB2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xy-YJVrPtGI/VsFFousJFLI/AAAAAAAAuNY/3ntYlebgtNg/s1600/CB3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Xy-YJVrPtGI/VsFFousJFLI/AAAAAAAAuNY/3ntYlebgtNg/s640/CB3.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uvE_nSFklqA/VsFF9dTbhoI/AAAAAAAAuNw/WY_PlvCEQ9w/s1600/CB4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uvE_nSFklqA/VsFF9dTbhoI/AAAAAAAAuNw/WY_PlvCEQ9w/s640/CB4.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rtRqp3Mly7c/VsFF93-apOI/AAAAAAAAuN0/h0vVroSkeQw/s1600/CB5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rtRqp3Mly7c/VsFF93-apOI/AAAAAAAAuN0/h0vVroSkeQw/s640/CB5.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lfc7gJZxYrM/VsFF-hp6guI/AAAAAAAAuN8/z9RA4oHbiBE/s1600/CB6.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lfc7gJZxYrM/VsFF-hp6guI/AAAAAAAAuN8/z9RA4oHbiBE/s640/CB6.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYrqmNPhTZI/VsFGJJHDunI/AAAAAAAAuOU/ocOXeXdCE4Y/s1600/CB7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PYrqmNPhTZI/VsFGJJHDunI/AAAAAAAAuOU/ocOXeXdCE4Y/s640/CB7.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoEeauYGOvo/VsFGIxmGS-I/AAAAAAAAuOQ/hV9sX6HP0aY/s1600/CB8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoEeauYGOvo/VsFGIxmGS-I/AAAAAAAAuOQ/hV9sX6HP0aY/s640/CB8.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7dB7e4CReA/VsFGBOqDLEI/AAAAAAAAuOE/SNvAQW4lOMY/s1600/CB9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-U7dB7e4CReA/VsFGBOqDLEI/AAAAAAAAuOE/SNvAQW4lOMY/s640/CB9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-78679013380701333362015-12-19T21:11:00.005-05:002024-02-21T22:04:54.072-05:0059: Where’d the Wendigo? – Pt. 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19uqBBBnn6o/VnRlNqABSFI/AAAAAAAAto8/8iZZp2h5omE/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-19uqBBBnn6o/VnRlNqABSFI/AAAAAAAAto8/8iZZp2h5omE/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>Victoria…Victoria!
What have you done?!</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>They’ll be after you
now. You have to hide.</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>Don’t let them use
you.</i>”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
“<i>RUN!</i>”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idqpi7bLkDQ/VnRlNBFawDI/AAAAAAAAto4/pC_yfi8-NMc/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-idqpi7bLkDQ/VnRlNBFawDI/AAAAAAAAto4/pC_yfi8-NMc/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The shrill buzzing of the alarm shook Victoria awake.
Slowly, she reached to her bedside table and slapped it off. <i>6:30</i>. “Ugh,” she moaned and rolled to
her back. She was used to early mornings but, this was getting ridiculous. Mike
had been on a kick which meant less sleep and more investigation. She hated
when he got this way. And now that he was upright again, there was nothing
stopping him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Get up,” she tried to persuade her tired body to move. Mike
would be there soon and he’d expect his partner to be on her feet and ready to
go. <i>Ding-dong</i>. “No way!” she
exclaimed and glanced at the clock again.
It had only been three minutes and her doorbell was already chiming.
Victoria groaned and finally pulled herself up.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4Qpr9D0nQE/VnRlMcpw1aI/AAAAAAAAto0/2_CPVA03XGU/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4Qpr9D0nQE/VnRlMcpw1aI/AAAAAAAAto0/2_CPVA03XGU/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Shuffling down the stairs, she disabled the alarm and
unlocked her front door. Mike was standing there, looking like he’d been ready
to go since 3. Hades greeted him before trotting off to his food bowl. “Hey,
Partner,” he smiled, waving a tray of fresh brewed coffee in front of her. “Geez. You
look like hell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Mike. Always the charmer.” He shrugged and she stepped aside to let him in. “This is what happens when you only get 3 hours of sleep.”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“3? I left you at 10. That should have given you at least 7-8
good hours of rest.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’d think. But between my neighbor’s new dogs and the
nightmares…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Still having those? I thought you said Derrick’s friend…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Couldn’t help me. He specializes in dreams. What I’m
experiencing are visions; outside of his purview,” she replied with a sigh.
“Just, give me 10 minutes and I’ll be ready to go.” Moving with a little more
haste, Victoria started back up the stairs while Mike cozied himself on her
sofa.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOeN9lq-26I/VnRlSnewnaI/AAAAAAAAtpM/gtEMBH9SaII/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mOeN9lq-26I/VnRlSnewnaI/AAAAAAAAtpM/gtEMBH9SaII/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TO3BV8_rThA/VnRla--typI/AAAAAAAAtpU/t9L0Tf_iVes/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TO3BV8_rThA/VnRla--typI/AAAAAAAAtpU/t9L0Tf_iVes/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How’s Aria doing?” Victoria asked, jogging down the stairs.
She made a beeline towards the cup in Mike’s hand, a smile on her face as she
took the first sip.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She’s good, thanks. And I actually wanna run something by
you a little later about that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Later?” she asked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Later. Right now, I need to show you something.” Mike
started into the dining room and motioned her over while he unfolded a map of
the city onto her table. “Taking your lead, I went through a few of the cold
cases in Avondale in the last five years. I was looking for any strange
disappearances, body dumps or unusual markings listed in the coroner’s reports.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trying to find a pattern to the killings,” Victoria concluded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Pr0gkFa2_0/VnRlbMqvSPI/AAAAAAAAtpY/AlZ-b96ZySM/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Pr0gkFa2_0/VnRlbMqvSPI/AAAAAAAAtpY/AlZ-b96ZySM/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96zpNqr3bo4/VnRlc2h7aDI/AAAAAAAAtpk/GhE_dVQezs4/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-96zpNqr3bo4/VnRlc2h7aDI/AAAAAAAAtpk/GhE_dVQezs4/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right. Well when we found that body near the bus station,
there was a break-in not far from the crime scene.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“At a voodoo shop,” Victoria added.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah. You know,” Mike stated matter-of-factly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I saw a strange coincidence. The glitter found on one of
the victims was also found inside the cash register at the shop. At the time I
believed she may have recently purchased something but with the owner’s
disappearance I began to suspect his involvement. I think it’s annotated in the
file.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It is. The shop owner, Malcolm Hamden, you ever find out
anything else about his disappearance?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssw3cMcdumY/VnRllAle1DI/AAAAAAAAtps/oF9CMtWU54U/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ssw3cMcdumY/VnRllAle1DI/AAAAAAAAtps/oF9CMtWU54U/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEodNc5eVos/VnRlm9PF3MI/AAAAAAAAtp0/oHmdGXRNd74/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LEodNc5eVos/VnRlm9PF3MI/AAAAAAAAtp0/oHmdGXRNd74/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sadly, no. All I know is he was reported missing BEFORE the
first body was discovered. Last known location was his shop. I…this all
happened right around the time of the shooting,” Victoria sighed. Mike nodded.
He understood where she was heading. After his accident, everything fell apart.
She quit the department, he announced his retirement and the case became hidden
in the shuffle.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, even though it wasn’t a murder, I added the
disappearance to the map like the others. Check out what happens when we place
markers for the random supernatural occurrences. This one is the shop owner’s
disappearance,” he said pointing to a flag on the map. “These three are the drained
witches. And this one is where Marguerite said her daughter was supposed to be
spending the night. Do you see it?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr7ZF_gLr6Y/VnRlop_rcDI/AAAAAAAAtp8/CjhsO59TyMI/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Kr7ZF_gLr6Y/VnRlop_rcDI/AAAAAAAAtp8/CjhsO59TyMI/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LpkdS3DK9sY/VnRluA2p7gI/AAAAAAAAtqE/Wh9roj11Sjk/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LpkdS3DK9sY/VnRluA2p7gI/AAAAAAAAtqE/Wh9roj11Sjk/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria looked closely at the map and the four locations
pinned and gasped. “It looks like the top of a star.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A pentagram to be exact,” Mike corrected.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Way ahead of you, partner.” Grabbing a clear plastic film
from one of the other folders he brought with him, he placed the shape of a
pentagram on top of the map and Victoria’s eyes widened as, for the first time,
they were on the same page as their perp.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each tip of the 5-point star marked specific locations on
the map. Location one was the bus stop where victim number three was dumped.
Location two was the grocery store where the first victim was found. Location
three was the voodoo shop. Location four, Avondale Community College where
victim number two was taken. And location five was an abandoned church near the
waterfront. “That has to be where he’s holding Kelly,” Mike said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fz36LHWwqiM/VnRlzJkS9bI/AAAAAAAAtqM/3fct1bTLhf4/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fz36LHWwqiM/VnRlzJkS9bI/AAAAAAAAtqM/3fct1bTLhf4/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4WZIq6JRvIQ/VnRl5i4wAYI/AAAAAAAAtqc/fwIL6OMlF6U/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4WZIq6JRvIQ/VnRl5i4wAYI/AAAAAAAAtqc/fwIL6OMlF6U/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Only one way to find out,” Victoria replied, grabbing her
gun from the lockbox in her kitchen cabinet. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike drove. He’d insisted on playing chauffeur ever since he
was healed. Victoria didn’t mind much. Not anymore. If it wasn’t her partner,
it was Derrick. Either way the only time she found herself in control of her
own vehicle was when she was alone.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“All of this tracks with the murders 25 years ago in
Winchester,” she stated as Mike merged onto the freeway. “When our perp first
appeared he murdered three sisters, all witches, drained them of blood and took
the eyes of their cat. A few weeks later, a hat shop owner was found stabbed to
death in his shop with his ears removed; he was elven,” she said before Mike
could ask. “Everything is identical minus the mutilated cat.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oOA4KLFvBQs/VnRl4BQJovI/AAAAAAAAtqU/shyERYyqzeI/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oOA4KLFvBQs/VnRl4BQJovI/AAAAAAAAtqU/shyERYyqzeI/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We should check if any reports have come in about cats
missing their eyes.” She nodded and continued gazing out the window. “Ok, let’s
say this is the same guy from back then. Why did he wait 25 years before
killing again?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, a lot of rituals require not only the right
ingredients and spells but nature can play heavily into the success of an incantation.
Weather, lunar cycles, environmental anomalies; they all have a place in magic.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?” he asked in surprise and looked at her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. Many require moonlight others require rain; spells
are finicky in that way.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wow. I have so much to learn about what you do.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s a real headache. Trust me,” she sighed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNWhV82fGb4/VnRmEQphXXI/AAAAAAAAtqk/LuPcnerF6Ls/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UNWhV82fGb4/VnRmEQphXXI/AAAAAAAAtqk/LuPcnerF6Ls/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok. So he’s waiting for the right time. What weather
effect happens every 25 years in Avondale?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The Lightning Storms,” the detectives said together. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That explains his absence and why the killings were
repeated. He needed to recoup his lost ingredients,” Victoria said.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right. Which would hopefully mean Kelly is still alive,”
Mike added. “The storms are starting at 12:00 p.m. today!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She has to be,” Victoria replied. “I learned that he may be
trying to harvest her horns which he can only get once she’s transformed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright so that gives us a good 2 hours to get to Kelly
before he completes his ritual.” Mike glanced at the watch on his wrist and over
to his partner as he pulled his truck to a stop. “You ready?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VO4jrZV1KKo/VnRmEmxhcNI/AAAAAAAAtqo/vEPyjxDTFh4/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VO4jrZV1KKo/VnRmEmxhcNI/AAAAAAAAtqo/vEPyjxDTFh4/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vI9x8lLQAg/VnRmFWyoY9I/AAAAAAAAtqs/YKajGz__EJE/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3vI9x8lLQAg/VnRmFWyoY9I/AAAAAAAAtqs/YKajGz__EJE/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Just waiting on you,” she said and started after him. Victoria
drew her weapon and pushed her back against the wall as Mike took lead. He
signaled at her and counted down from five on his hand before kicking the door
in and moving swiftly inside.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She followed, clearing the rooms he passed as together they
searched the old church in hopes of locating the missing girl. With a nod, Mike
informed his partner he was moving up the stairs. Victoria acknowledged and
continued clearing the bottom floor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HOhyQ0MvQo8/VnRmLAiWi4I/AAAAAAAAtq8/cTp__Zam1MY/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HOhyQ0MvQo8/VnRmLAiWi4I/AAAAAAAAtq8/cTp__Zam1MY/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The wooden slats of the stairs groaned beneath the weight of
Mike’s feet as he ascended to the next balcony overlooking the choir area.
Hopping over a small hole in the floor, he continued up to the center of the
landing and checked the rooms on both sides of the passage. At the last door he
opened, a small black object moved into the corner and he quickly raised his
weapon. “FREEZE!” he shouted. Instantly a cat jumped out at him causing him to
stumble backwards and press hard against the wooden railing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryF66T2q8rc/VnRmYV5OMYI/AAAAAAAAtrU/JB-nRBP00Z8/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ryF66T2q8rc/VnRmYV5OMYI/AAAAAAAAtrU/JB-nRBP00Z8/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOLTj4JxigM/VnRmRSed8yI/AAAAAAAAtrE/EpiXsSbA8Ug/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UOLTj4JxigM/VnRmRSed8yI/AAAAAAAAtrE/EpiXsSbA8Ug/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The weakened wood gave way beneath his weight and crashed to
the first floor directly in front of Victoria. She looked up in time to watch
Mike lose his balance and follow in the path of the dry rotten lumber. “MIKE!” she
shouted, watching him tumble over the railing, flying head first to the hard
pavement three stories below.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He closed his eyes, waiting to feel the impact. But when the
bone crunching pain seemed delayed, he slowly peeled open his eyelids and took
a look around. He was suspended just above the second story and slowly drifting
to the ground.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4qBdk6ZqL0/VnRmVTpb8wI/AAAAAAAAtrM/GOMEr3C1uJ4/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C4qBdk6ZqL0/VnRmVTpb8wI/AAAAAAAAtrM/GOMEr3C1uJ4/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jgK4qDy-Do/VnRmc7_ye5I/AAAAAAAAtrc/YnA0kgBvMaY/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2jgK4qDy-Do/VnRmc7_ye5I/AAAAAAAAtrc/YnA0kgBvMaY/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vik, are you doing that?” he asked, feeling the
weightlessness of his body push against the air as he gracefully landed on his back.
He looked up to find his partner standing in the doorway encased in a purple
glow, the same one that saw him safely rest on the floor. “Oh I love you, you
beautiful, beautiful witch!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She laughed and hurried over to his side. “We just got you
walking again, Mike. Think you can maybe take it easy for a bit and be careful?
This place has been condemned for a reason.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LQNxOhiZU/VnRmeKFoDYI/AAAAAAAAtrg/lwx_mW1H7UI/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w7LQNxOhiZU/VnRmeKFoDYI/AAAAAAAAtrg/lwx_mW1H7UI/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back on his feet, Mike continued down the rickety hallway
with Victoria close behind. “Wait,” he said, holding his hand out for her to
stop. Testing the strength of the floorboard in front of him with his foot, he
removed a pen from his left pocket and leaned forward. Victoria watched as he
tugged at a nearly invisible thread of fish line running from the piece of wood
on the floor to something hidden in the ceiling. As he added tension, a
whirring sound drew their attention to the left and a large fireman’s axe
dropped from the rafters and slashed into the wall beside his head. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Jesus!” Victoria exclaimed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This place is booby-trapped. Be extra careful.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q496Jxr2ACc/VnYYLbQc_eI/AAAAAAAAtvE/dwG7XtJ_DmM/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q496Jxr2ACc/VnYYLbQc_eI/AAAAAAAAtvE/dwG7XtJ_DmM/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can do you one better,” Victoria replied. “Ostendete!”
Flickers of light danced around in front of them before landing in specific
parts of the room, each light revealing the locations of traps. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Impressive.” It took less than two minutes for the
detectives to make the trek over the traps before they stood at the door to the
bell tower. “Last room,” Mike sighed. “Any tricks you wanna try here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria closed her eyes and looked around, shaking her head
when she couldn’t sense danger. Slowly, Mike opened the door and stepped
inside. “MMM!” They turned as a muffled scream startled them from behind the
door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kH3dXyoi3jQ/VnRmoJocqTI/AAAAAAAAtr0/LxTkxo2I2_Q/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kH3dXyoi3jQ/VnRmoJocqTI/AAAAAAAAtr0/LxTkxo2I2_Q/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peKA9rjkyvw/VnRmpvg2jmI/AAAAAAAAtr8/i2qdJeaDI1w/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-peKA9rjkyvw/VnRmpvg2jmI/AAAAAAAAtr8/i2qdJeaDI1w/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Over here!” Victoria reached Kelly first and pulled the
tape from over her mouth. “Is he still here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, I don’t think so,” she whined as Victoria made short
work of the ropes binding her to the chair. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m Detective Rizzitello and this is my partner Detective
Carson. Your Mom hired us to find you. Don’t worry. We’re gonna get you out of here,” Mike said, helping her
stand as Victoria took a look around the room. “Are you hurt?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5JqHES_mcNk/VnRmsbh854I/AAAAAAAAtsE/_gFwcHj1v_U/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5JqHES_mcNk/VnRmsbh854I/AAAAAAAAtsE/_gFwcHj1v_U/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. He—he hadn’t started yet,” she again sobbed, staring
at the collection of tools hanging against the wall. A small magic alter was
erected close by and something had been set to boil inside a cauldron. “He was
going to kill me. He was talking crazy about horns and—and blood and…I thought
for sure I was dead!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How long ago did he leave?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t…an hour maybe. He said there were more things he
needed to collect and he’d be back before nightfall. I don’t know what he
meant. Like I said he was crazy!” She exclaimed and wrapped her arms around
herself. “Wait, Detective Carson? Victoria Carson?” Victoria turned at the
sound of her name and glanced at her partner before moving closer towards
Kelly. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How do you know my name?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0336pCD_9Jk/VnRmzpgXMmI/AAAAAAAAtsM/onjt0lF55hQ/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0336pCD_9Jk/VnRmzpgXMmI/AAAAAAAAtsM/onjt0lF55hQ/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RrL87hOIwt4/VnRm1nHheaI/AAAAAAAAtsQ/CISl7mqbl5c/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RrL87hOIwt4/VnRm1nHheaI/AAAAAAAAtsQ/CISl7mqbl5c/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He—he had a message for you,” Kelly said and handed Victoria
a folded piece of paper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She quickly scanned the letter and again exchanged a look
with Mike before handing him the note. “‘I will see you when the sky lights up’.
What the hell does that mean? The storms?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I guess.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wait, he’s threatening to come after you now? Vik, that
must mean he knows what you are.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Maybe. I don’t know, Mike. I’ve never met the guy. At least
to my knowledge.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A0s6NkwlsI/VnRm2iMqaBI/AAAAAAAAtsY/syoc9XecAs8/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A0s6NkwlsI/VnRm2iMqaBI/AAAAAAAAtsY/syoc9XecAs8/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Christ. As if we didn’t already have enough to deal with,” he
growled and paced the room. “Ok, we can contact the old department. Let them
know you’re being harassed or stalked or…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know just as well as I do that without proof and
without provocation there’s nothing they can do. Besides, considering the past
acts, there’s no way they’d be equipped to handle it anyway. No. I—we can do
this ourselves, Mike. But; that’s a concern for later. Right now the only thing
we need to do is get Kelly home. I’m sure her parents are anxious.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FUQslXl7Dgc/VnRnB_ZnJGI/AAAAAAAAtsk/c_E3zwxWx8s/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FUQslXl7Dgc/VnRnB_ZnJGI/AAAAAAAAtsk/c_E3zwxWx8s/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQGwlWEd6eM/VnRnERYKKsI/AAAAAAAAtsw/iinCDGiRDN8/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQGwlWEd6eM/VnRnERYKKsI/AAAAAAAAtsw/iinCDGiRDN8/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“KELLY!” Marguerite and Daniel ran forward, pulling their
daughter into a hug. “Thank you,” Mrs. Mitchell looked over at the detectives.
“I don’t know how I could ever repay you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We were just doing our jobs, Ma’am,” Victoria replied with a
smile. They said their goodbyes and Mrs. Mitchell handed Mike a check for their
services as they exited the front door.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know we’ve just released a potential murderer back in
the care of her family, right?” Mike asked, following Victoria out to his
truck. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLHvgb35QMQ/VnRnEU7-iVI/AAAAAAAAtss/rYlyvFpXKhI/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FLHvgb35QMQ/VnRnEU7-iVI/AAAAAAAAtss/rYlyvFpXKhI/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not today, Mike. Today she was a victim of a serial
killer’s plans to end the world. When she transitions, that might be another
story,” she sighed and glanced back into the window of the home with a smile. “Now
come on and get me home, I’ve made plans for later.” A loud explosion erupted
above them and both detectives turned their attention to the sky as another
crackle of lightning lit up the night. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what about that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That? That’s a sign of a job well done. Kelly’s safe and
back home and…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ve taken her place at the top of the psycho’s hit list,”
Mike finished. “He said he’d see you when the skies lit up, Vik.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Take a look around, Mike. Do you see anyone here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rD2TO5EMU5g/VnRnHIghOTI/AAAAAAAAts8/ttaDS62TOjo/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rD2TO5EMU5g/VnRnHIghOTI/AAAAAAAAts8/ttaDS62TOjo/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mx5KZj9a9-k/VnRnOA9Ru1I/AAAAAAAAttM/8RRrxyyY1S0/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mx5KZj9a9-k/VnRnOA9Ru1I/AAAAAAAAttM/8RRrxyyY1S0/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That doesn’t mean he’s not around, Vik. And you need to be
extra careful. This guy has already proven he can handle supernatural…beings
with ease.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Aww are you worried about me, Mike?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well ain’t it obvious? We just got our partnership up and
running again. I don’t want to lose you now. I can’t.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll be safe. I promise,” she smiled and slid into the car.
Flashes of brilliant white and blue lights continued illuminating the dark sky
as Mike drove Victoria home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwMbzzNTrkQ/VnRnNDCY0wI/AAAAAAAAttE/qi7BLq_pOYI/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UwMbzzNTrkQ/VnRnNDCY0wI/AAAAAAAAttE/qi7BLq_pOYI/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEjqNNzFVBU/VnRnQqUmGLI/AAAAAAAAttU/Re2LPW1sJh4/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEjqNNzFVBU/VnRnQqUmGLI/AAAAAAAAttU/Re2LPW1sJh4/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do you think all the cases we get now are going to be
weird?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Weird?” Victoria asked with a slight inflection.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh stop it, you know what I mean.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, Mike, I do. Don’t forget ‘weird’ saved your ass
tonight.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t get me wrong, I’m very grateful for that. I also don’t
clump you into the same class as all the others that we’ve—I’ve met so far. I
mean aside from you know Derrick, everyone else though…you don’t stop being
beautiful when you um…do your thing.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wow.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zEV3n3Z0t3k/VnRnXNoe9GI/AAAAAAAAttc/m5Ep9dhCVXA/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zEV3n3Z0t3k/VnRnXNoe9GI/AAAAAAAAttc/m5Ep9dhCVXA/s640/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m not trying to offend you or anything, Vik, please
understand. I love you I just…I’ve lived life believing a certain way. And then
you come along and pretty much shatter all that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, it’s not that, Mike,” Victoria sighed and glanced at
her partner with a sly smile. “You think Derrick is beautiful?” She couldn’t
help the laughter that followed and the twisted expression on her friend’s face
as he thought over what he said. “To answer your question, Mike, I have no idea
what kinds of cases we’ll get at the business. What I can tell you, though, is
the ones we did receive came directly from ‘you know who.’” Mike shrugged and
Victoria clarified. “Derrick.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right… Remind me to shoot him next time I see him.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Will do,” she smiled and stared out the window at the light
show.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72768Wu6CWo/VnRnY3A7UzI/AAAAAAAAttk/U95x1g8yoM4/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72768Wu6CWo/VnRnY3A7UzI/AAAAAAAAttk/U95x1g8yoM4/s640/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQC3eUjJVqM/VnRnZhQZ-vI/AAAAAAAAtto/BYqaBTbxAeY/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JQC3eUjJVqM/VnRnZhQZ-vI/AAAAAAAAtto/BYqaBTbxAeY/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Here we are,” Mike announced as they pulled into Victoria’s
driveway.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So, Mike, what did you want to talk to me about?” Victoria
asked, loosening her seat belt and opening her door. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hmm?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Earlier when you came to get me you said you had something
to talk to me about concerning Aria.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, right…uh…yeah…” he slammed his car door and followed
her up to the front stoop. “I’m um…damn…what do you think about helping me shop
for a ring?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fek_3SBz4Aw/VnRngSc1-QI/AAAAAAAAtt0/pZwucBSlsGQ/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fek_3SBz4Aw/VnRngSc1-QI/AAAAAAAAtt0/pZwucBSlsGQ/s640/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fns3C5Qxk1c/VnRnjXCXuDI/AAAAAAAAtt8/Trv78NRCNPc/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fns3C5Qxk1c/VnRnjXCXuDI/AAAAAAAAtt8/Trv78NRCNPc/s640/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“MIKE!” Victoria gasped and jumped up and down excitedly.
“You’re going to propose?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I don’t know. I was thinking about it. You think it’s
too early? I mean we’ve been together just a little over two years and you
know…that might be a little…soon?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? That’s not…seriously? No, absolutely not. I think
it’s wonderful. This is great news, Mikey!” His nose scrunched up when she said
his name and she laughed. “Don’t tell me you’re growing up and want me to stop
calling you that.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. Never. It’s just your excitement. You’re such a girl!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imFHwEjeilY/VnRnkSo8aXI/AAAAAAAAtuA/ME6yDm1yRAk/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-imFHwEjeilY/VnRnkSo8aXI/AAAAAAAAtuA/ME6yDm1yRAk/s640/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K0pQJ_lmBE/VnRno3DNLZI/AAAAAAAAtuM/1wto0fJ_fb4/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2K0pQJ_lmBE/VnRno3DNLZI/AAAAAAAAtuM/1wto0fJ_fb4/s640/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh stuff it!” she grinned and jabbed his arm. “I’m just
really happy for you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can tell,” he laughed and rubbed his arm where she hit
him. “So I might need you to do your witchy thing. I don’t know her ring size
and I don’t want to tip her off, you know?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t think you need magic for that, Mike. Just plain
old-fashioned snooping. I’ll take her to lunch and get you your answer.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvahzDMqI8k/VnRntP164qI/AAAAAAAAtuU/KOlTk4sDMXs/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvahzDMqI8k/VnRntP164qI/AAAAAAAAtuU/KOlTk4sDMXs/s640/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4TtOy1gUqg4/VnRntmQUptI/AAAAAAAAtuY/v6w8SGMM_jM/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4TtOy1gUqg4/VnRntmQUptI/AAAAAAAAtuY/v6w8SGMM_jM/s640/Screenshot-46.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Vik. I knew I could count on you,” he smiled and
leaned against her door as she undid the lock. “So what are these plans you had
me rush you home for?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Um, today is Derrick’s birthday. I’m heading to his place
to surprise him.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh yeah? Putting that book I gave him to use huh?” Victoria
smirked and watched as he backed away from the door. “Nevermind, I don’t want to
know,” Mike grinned. “Have fun, Vik. I’ll catch you later.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
*Author’s note: Ostendete means “show” in Latin. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Location where Kelly was found is called “Sanctus” and is
created by <a href="http://melissa-simka.blogspot.com/2012/10/sanctus-gothic-cathedral.html">MelissaSims</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The following chapter is basically all sex. Yep! 7 pages of
sex. Nothing of real merit takes place so feel free to skip it if you’d like.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
59.2: <a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/12/592-whered-wendigo-bonus.html">Where’d the Wendigo?– Bonus</a>*<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2016/03/60-at-center-of-it-all-pt-1.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-69036540566173051302015-12-19T21:11:00.000-05:002015-12-19T21:56:29.154-05:0059.2: Where’d the Wendigo? – Bonus<div class="MsoNormal">
*Author’s note: Ooh what are you doing? Skipping to the good
stuff huh? That’s fine, have your dessert first. But if you haven’t read the
previous chapter, might I suggest you start <a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/12/59-whered-wendigo-pt-3.html">there</a>? (And if you have, ok,
alright, please continue. I was just making sure you saw it! Gawsh!)*<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
----------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p>----------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M5dj6lNx8_Q/U0Sue5YXfCI/AAAAAAAAe58/62VUlqmD92c/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M5dj6lNx8_Q/U0Sue5YXfCI/AAAAAAAAe58/62VUlqmD92c/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” Derrick called as he entered his front door and
turned the corner to his living room. Not seeing her in there, he continued
further into his home. Finding her jeep parked in his front yard when he
returned home was a pleasant and unexpected surprise. He dropped the canvas bag
he carried near the kitchen counter and noticed the door leading to his
basement was slightly ajar. A smile appeared on his lips as he approached it
and the scent of the raspberry candles below touched his nose.</div>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Y9t1_-I7Q/U0SufXmJuuI/AAAAAAAAe6A/yhPUOBx-7v0/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z6Y9t1_-I7Q/U0SufXmJuuI/AAAAAAAAe6A/yhPUOBx-7v0/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick rubbed his chin and his smile became a full blown
grin as he thought about what Victoria could be doing down those stairs. Slowly
he started forward, listening for any sign of her. And as he reached the bottom
step, he felt an object press firmly between his shoulder blades and paused.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Freeze!” her voice held caution and a hint of sass as she
continued. “You’re under arrest, Mr. Constantine.” The cool metal slipped
around his first wrist and then the other and slight confusion twisted his
face.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNcSUIYOdXY/U0SufkFBGnI/AAAAAAAAe6E/D44pzKgauOs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lNcSUIYOdXY/U0SufkFBGnI/AAAAAAAAe6E/D44pzKgauOs/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pushing him forward, he started towards a chair sitting
solitary in the center of the room. “And may I ask what’s the charge?” he
asked, playing along. As he sat, Victoria held up a wanted poster for him to
read and he chuckled lightly before gazing into the semi-serious look on her
face. “‘Heartbreaker’ am I? Well I really hope that’s no longer true in your
case.”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lptXAHtWCnc/U0SuiI_Fw_I/AAAAAAAAe6M/Kp7TK0wt5Bo/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lptXAHtWCnc/U0SuiI_Fw_I/AAAAAAAAe6M/Kp7TK0wt5Bo/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she lowered the paper, Derrick was finally able to
fully take in her attire and the look of shock on his face said it all. Wearing
a sexy cop’s uniform complete with a badge, short shorts, and a hat right down
to a whistle and gun, she definitely looked ready for business. “Wow, Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Quiet, Prisoner! You may only speak when spoken to,” she
growled, snapping the riding crop against her open palm as she stared down at
him.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes Ma’am, Officer Carson.” <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8o13aFHJV4A/U0Sukk0xi8I/AAAAAAAAe6Y/Hpd8JLhG4b0/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8o13aFHJV4A/U0Sukk0xi8I/AAAAAAAAe6Y/Hpd8JLhG4b0/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria grabbed a handful of Derrick’s hair as she dropped
into his lap, yanking his head back. “That’s Officer Hotpants to you,” she
purred in his ear. Gently her teeth nipped at his earlobe. Her warm breath on
his neck made his eyes close briefly as he inhaled the delicate scent of
vanilla that lightly coated her skin. The action on his ear was sweetly
followed by her tongue licking down the column of his neck. Victoria withdrew
and planted a kiss just at the base of his throat and trailed up to his chin
before kissing him softly on the lips. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPlR5gYb4n8/U0SulLI-kdI/AAAAAAAAe6c/KU7xBwovZjY/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MPlR5gYb4n8/U0SulLI-kdI/AAAAAAAAe6c/KU7xBwovZjY/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her lips were dripping honey making him groan at the loss
when she pulled away. Smirking as she licked across his mouth painstakingly slow,
she felt the tension form in his muscles beneath her hands and pressed him
against the chair. Teasing him with an equally as languid motion on his belt
buckle as she sat in his lap, Victoria felt his cock twitch beneath her tiny
fingers. She looked down at his crotch and back up to the grin on Derrick’s
face. He shrugged and drew his bottom lip between his teeth. “It’s growing
impatient.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Too bad,” she said and swayed her hips against him, making
him groan. “I haven’t even begun to tease you.” Her hands caressed his chest
and she enjoyed the way his shoulders stretched the cotton top he wore. “I hope
you weren’t too attached to this shirt,” she whispered, placing her hands on
either side of the flaps and giving it a rough yank. Buttons flew in different
directions as she ripped it the rest of the way from his body and her lips
quickly kissed down his pecs.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxkOboLhZwI/U0SumWbSOXI/AAAAAAAAe6k/3pUFQwkzATU/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uxkOboLhZwI/U0SumWbSOXI/AAAAAAAAe6k/3pUFQwkzATU/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GugkCw93OMs/U0Sup174ZDI/AAAAAAAAe6s/Dpnhw0Q8Ars/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GugkCw93OMs/U0Sup174ZDI/AAAAAAAAe6s/Dpnhw0Q8Ars/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another deep rumble started from his throat the lower her
mouth went and again she felt his cock tremble at the nearness of her lips. Victoria
stood from his lap and the immediate loss of heat from her thighs made Derrick
clamp down on his bottom lip again while he watched her. Unbuckling his pants,
he lifted his hips and she lowered them down his thighs, freeing the rigid
arousal that so desperately wanted to play and watched it spring to life. “My,
my, my. You would be very popular in prison, you know that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cye2GGoACXc/U0SuqhwrEHI/AAAAAAAAe60/BM6d19eNcmA/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cye2GGoACXc/U0SuqhwrEHI/AAAAAAAAe60/BM6d19eNcmA/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gGucTMYpoFg/U0SurQ03JvI/AAAAAAAAe68/3eFh4wKfiuA/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gGucTMYpoFg/U0SurQ03JvI/AAAAAAAAe68/3eFh4wKfiuA/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
A smile curved her lips and she backed away from him with a
look of satisfaction at the nude vampire sitting locked to a chair. “Does the
crop come into play at some point?” he asked with anticipation as he watched
her fiddle with something on a table near the stairs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What did I tell you about talking? I’m the one conducting
this interrogation.” Victoria snapped and pulled off the hat on her head. “It
looks like I am gonna have to run you downtown after all.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wait, Officer Hotpants. I can’t go to jail, just look at
me. There’s no way I could survive it,” he smirked and tilted his head as he
looked at her seductively. “There uh, there must be some other way we can work
this out!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Perhaps,” Victoria shrugged as she listened to Derrick try
to proposition his way out of the handcuffs. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I have money, lots of it. What’s say you spit out a number,
any number, and I’ll see that you’re very well compensated?”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ub1yEul5o8/U0SuujE_R4I/AAAAAAAAe7I/WNsodOxi1jg/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ub1yEul5o8/U0SuujE_R4I/AAAAAAAAe7I/WNsodOxi1jg/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you trying to bribe me?” she scoffed and ran one hand
through her hair, loosening it around her shoulders and swinging it briefly. “Pfft.
I don’t want your money. No. There’s only one thing I want tonight,” she purred
as she drank in his nude body and unbuttoned the top two buttons of her blouse.
“Tell me Prisoner, how do I look?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So very fuckable, Officer Hotpants,” he groaned between
words.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“‘Fuckable?’ And is that you want, Prisoner? To fuck me?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“More than you could ever know, Officer Hotpants.”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02IVak9xOK8/U0Suvc5u2JI/AAAAAAAAe7M/rkqG18soWXU/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02IVak9xOK8/U0Suvc5u2JI/AAAAAAAAe7M/rkqG18soWXU/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think I can see that for myself,” Victoria grinned and
lowered herself to her knees. “What do you think? Should I fuck you? Should I
let you bend me on my hands and knees and fuck me blind or run you in and let
every lowlife in Avondale have a crack at you instead?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mmm FUCK! Officer Hotpants …” Derrick groaned and dropped
his head back momentarily as he addressed her. “The way you keep saying that
word is killing me! Please, come over here and fuck me. I promise to show you
the time of your life.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ooh, bold words for a man in handcuffs!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Baby, I can back up every one of them. Oh fuck that’s so
hot,” he moaned again while he watched her inch forward on her hands and knees,
licking her tongue out at him as she moved.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7S4t159afM/U0SuxX_1EmI/AAAAAAAAe7U/D08GFQQ7hHc/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7S4t159afM/U0SuxX_1EmI/AAAAAAAAe7U/D08GFQQ7hHc/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stopping midway towards him, she leisurely rubbed one hand
over her breast while the other blazed a trail between her legs. Victoria
nibbled on her index fingernail shooting Derrick a very innocent look that made
him whimper and jerk in his binds. The headiness of her scent caused his eyes
to flash red and she giggled watching him practice restraint. She knew if he
wanted to he could have those cuffs smashed to a million pieces and her writhing
on her back beneath him in a second. She appreciated he chose to play along. “Remember
the night of Mike’s retirement announcement, Prisoner?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vividly and with fond memories, Officer Hotpants.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mcQMJVf6PzU/U0SuyS4kstI/AAAAAAAAe7c/hHgo_1dE-F8/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mcQMJVf6PzU/U0SuyS4kstI/AAAAAAAAe7c/hHgo_1dE-F8/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I know these aren’t exactly my dress blues and I’m sure
you never imagined you’d be handcuffed but…” she started moving forward again and
listened to his desperate sighs and moans. “I figured I’d give you what you’ve
always wanted; my handcuffs on you and me on my knees, slowly crawling towards
you.” When she reached him, she delicately tickled her fingers along the veins
of his dick and smiled when it jerked beneath her touch. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvendPe35ic/U0SuzX3YnAI/AAAAAAAAe7k/00nkC-uDcA4/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kvendPe35ic/U0SuzX3YnAI/AAAAAAAAe7k/00nkC-uDcA4/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mmm,” Derrick growled and stared down at her with lustful
eyes. A spot of precum had formed at the tip and was leaking down the side of
his shaft. Victoria lightly licked it off, moaning as she tasted him and smiled
wickedly at the forlorn look he gave her. “Did I do this to you when I brought
you down here? Was it really this bad, Baby? Because you are driving me fucking
crazy; and it’s my birthday of all days!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re right, Birthday Boy. Maybe I should give you a
little relief.” Victoria seized his cock with her hungry, little mouth,
swallowing it to the base and taking him deep in her throat. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1i6gIPz8S70/U0Su2XiwneI/AAAAAAAAe7s/bJCDXf8tuMU/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1i6gIPz8S70/U0Su2XiwneI/AAAAAAAAe7s/bJCDXf8tuMU/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ohh fuuck!” Derrick groaned loudly as the heat of her mouth
surrounded him. Victoria hummed as her hands played with his balls and her head
bobbed quicker while his full length slipped in and out of her mouth. He thrust
his lap upwards, slowly keeping in time with the rhythm she had set. As she
sucked and bobbed, she looked up at him smiling and winking. Derrick’s near
orgasmic state made his eyes loll and the mouth of his lover kept him virtually
teetering on the edge of an explosive climax.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He moaned while calling her little pet names and speaking
dirty expletives as he watched Victoria
deep throat him. He felt the tip of his dick delve deeper into her mouth
and throat and the heat of her breath
cover his balls. Derrick pumped in and out of her, encouraging her continuous sucking
and swallowing motions as she worked him into a mind numbing state of madness.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zImEYydJc0g/U0Su3M4-JKI/AAAAAAAAe74/Bdbx3Eai_68/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zImEYydJc0g/U0Su3M4-JKI/AAAAAAAAe74/Bdbx3Eai_68/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she pulled
off, he groaned in disappointment, going so far as to beg her to get back to
it. Victoria giggled, feeling a rush of power as she listened to the usually
cool and collected vampire beg <i>her</i> for something. Giving in to his
demands, she again swallowed his cock into her throat. And when she opened her
mouth and drew in his balls it should have been his ruin, but it wasn’t. Instead
he leaned back against his seat and was treated to her tongue lashing with
hard, firm licks. When she was done handling his sack, Derrick was ready to
burst, but again she stopped in time to keep him going and went back to his shaft. </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
No one had ever
taken his thick cock to the depths of which she was taking it and the curves of
her lips made him growl and rumble with pleasure. Victoria’s fingers continued
moving over every exposed inch of his rod; palming his package, squeezing his
balls and even rolling them between her soft hands. He shuddered feeling her
teeth rake up the full length of his dick and back down again. She seemed
to be keeping his release just out of reach and he was amazed at her incredible
prowess to taunt him so effectively.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maFyubV4TtQ/U0Su4PXWDNI/AAAAAAAAe78/Yi1rYPtXVmQ/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-maFyubV4TtQ/U0Su4PXWDNI/AAAAAAAAe78/Yi1rYPtXVmQ/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PIJKJq1J28/U0Su6yivH_I/AAAAAAAAe8E/Ye2x2Kr9JhQ/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_PIJKJq1J28/U0Su6yivH_I/AAAAAAAAe8E/Ye2x2Kr9JhQ/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mcHbUzC-vzo/U0Su8FBPVXI/AAAAAAAAe8M/G9aRDtJCDsc/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mcHbUzC-vzo/U0Su8FBPVXI/AAAAAAAAe8M/G9aRDtJCDsc/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v07j1i1ajeI/U0Su891GR3I/AAAAAAAAe8U/W8NbFAvXCTU/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v07j1i1ajeI/U0Su891GR3I/AAAAAAAAe8U/W8NbFAvXCTU/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But Derrick couldn’t
wait any longer. Breaking his cuffs, he grabbed Victoria’s head hard and
slammed himself back into her mouth. Feeling as her nails dug into his skin, he
knew she was holding on to him with all her might and he pumped in and out of
her faster. He controlled the action until he felt his seed shoot free from his
tightened balls and bounce against her tongue, coating the worn flesh of her throat.
His cream shot free a few more times and his head fell back as he yelled with
relief. “Fuck…” he muttered as he gazed down at her innocent brown eyes. “You’re
too good at that.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You surprised me,”
Victoria laughed, kneeling in front of him.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>I</i> surprised
you? Your oral skills are mind blowing, Victoria! You’ve been holding out on
me.” he exclaimed, watching as she caught her breath. “Now I’m kicking myself
for all those missed opportunities!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnesyebFYwc/U0Su_myxEGI/AAAAAAAAe8c/JRgj0jdUTiU/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnesyebFYwc/U0Su_myxEGI/AAAAAAAAe8c/JRgj0jdUTiU/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You surprised me by how long you held out. I expected you
to be out of those handcuffs MUCH sooner. As for the blowjob, well, I couldn’t
show you all my cards at once; then what would I have to keep you around?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll tell you what,” Derrick grinned and pulled to her feet
and towards him. “I think you may have just found my kryptonite.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ooh was that a movie reference, Mr. Constantine? Who are
you and what have you done with my Derrick?” <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mywkva-443Y/U0SvBQb4IeI/AAAAAAAAe8o/_W2eSreov_k/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mywkva-443Y/U0SvBQb4IeI/AAAAAAAAe8o/_W2eSreov_k/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria leaned over to kiss him and felt his tongue
fiercely invade her mouth. Crude hands moved over her breasts roughly tearing
off her shirt and vest and tossing it to the ground beside his clothes. Derrick
hooked his thumbs into her shorts and quickly made short work of them as well. Victoria
shivered as she stood naked in front of him, anticipating his next move. A
mischievous glint flashed in her eyes when she felt his hands slide up her
thighs and he knew exactly what the small grin on her lips meant. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He’d seen it on her face a few times since the night he had
her in here and came to recognize it as a desire to be controlled. Victoria
wanted Derrick to be rough with her just like their first time. But not only
dominated, she wanted to be pleased by someone that knew exactly how to do that
to her and past experience pointed to her lover. “Squeeze them for me,” he
ordered and grazed his lip with his tongue as he stared at her breasts. His smooth,
timbered voice rolled over her like a warm breeze and she licked her lips as
she gazed down at him, doing as told.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tiRpXt_yRwc/U0SvB-VPLeI/AAAAAAAAe8s/40z6FplyoQA/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tiRpXt_yRwc/U0SvB-VPLeI/AAAAAAAAe8s/40z6FplyoQA/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick stood, gently pressing his lips against Victoria’s
as his fingers worked between her legs. She moaned and bit his lip as he pushed
two fingers inside her wet body, slamming them in and out of her roughly and
making her scream. He rubbed his thumb over her slick nub and she began
wiggling and squirming against him. Within moments he had three fingers deep
inside her tight body, curling them and finding her g-spot.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf5cX2YXe1w/U0SvDJFbZ5I/AAAAAAAAe80/IowMHpocwmA/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vf5cX2YXe1w/U0SvDJFbZ5I/AAAAAAAAe80/IowMHpocwmA/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another moan of pleasure escaped from deep within her chest
as his fingers burrowed further up between her open thighs. With a feverishly
manic motion, he wiggled her throbbing clit and felt her climax pour over his
hand and she trembled. Victoria was going crazy and she moaned into his mouth
as her knees buckled beneath her.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJE8XVG_B8g/U0SvGEkKPdI/AAAAAAAAe88/9qE9XB_wom0/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NJE8XVG_B8g/U0SvGEkKPdI/AAAAAAAAe88/9qE9XB_wom0/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick quickly wrapped an arm around her back and slowly
guided her into the chair. Dropping to his knees, he gently spread her legs
apart and smiled up at her before dipping his head between her thighs. Maddeningly
he sucked at her moist lips, slipping his tongue around her sensitive bud. He
nibbled at it with his teeth and latched on tighter as he inserted two fingers
into her and frigged her with deliberate thrusts at first. Victoria’s hips
gyrated and her panting grew more labored as he fervently plunged his fingers
deeper, bringing her to another orgasm. He knew she was biting her lip to keep quiet
as her muscles clenched on his fingers and he was determined to hear her scream. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BCfMfASu8Q/U0SvHe1srCI/AAAAAAAAe9E/3xAiw3bhwl8/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7BCfMfASu8Q/U0SvHe1srCI/AAAAAAAAe9E/3xAiw3bhwl8/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A fiery torrent formed where Derrick licked frantically and
the sensation began to edge throughout her entire body. She pressed her hips
forward, encouraging him to move faster as his tongue continued its pleasing
assault against her clit. His hot probing mouth worked its way up and down the
length of her velvety, wet body, working harder and faster as he went. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Y31olLSBcI/U0SvIZVsVQI/AAAAAAAAe9M/q6YrfVDlJHo/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5Y31olLSBcI/U0SvIZVsVQI/AAAAAAAAe9M/q6YrfVDlJHo/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
A long, anguished purr escaped from between her clenched
teeth and she jerked in desire while he buried his tongue as deep as he could. An
inferno blazed everywhere, from her head to her toes and nothing else existed but
Derrick’s fingers and mouth on her flame seared sex. “Oh, yes, yes!” She keened,
spreading her legs wider allowing him to jam his long tongue fully inside her
as she thrashed into a wild orgasm. “Mmm!” Victoria quivered as the last wave rolled
through her and Derrick stood, towering over her.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2PAOfAKJITo/U0SvLGNKnfI/AAAAAAAAe9U/u6JRZx-EUBY/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2PAOfAKJITo/U0SvLGNKnfI/AAAAAAAAe9U/u6JRZx-EUBY/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBZ20HZBiHw/U0SvL7m2u4I/AAAAAAAAe9c/zEa-WR4phHI/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kBZ20HZBiHw/U0SvL7m2u4I/AAAAAAAAe9c/zEa-WR4phHI/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pulling her to her feet, he took the chair and sat Victoria back
into his lap. His hard body pressed
against her, melding them together with his rigid arousal wedged between her thighs.
Victoria grinned as she guided him into her and she arched her back and moaned as
she was still tingling inside and out from her orgasm.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh my god!” she cried out and instantly chewed her bottom
lip as the tingles that zipped through her womb became a full blown climax and
her screaming became louder. Derrick just smiled and whispered his desire into
her ear. He knew just the right mix of what to say to get her exactly where she
needed to be.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB2OGb62H0Y/U0SvPRMtieI/AAAAAAAAe9s/rzCnmUv1VAU/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rB2OGb62H0Y/U0SvPRMtieI/AAAAAAAAe9s/rzCnmUv1VAU/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KU5lbkkYMe8/U0SvRDUApmI/AAAAAAAAe90/dyZh0mZZ8Jc/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KU5lbkkYMe8/U0SvRDUApmI/AAAAAAAAe90/dyZh0mZZ8Jc/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
He slammed his cock hard and deep inside her as he lifted
her legs and began to fuck her. Victoria leaned forward, pushing her
breasts into his face as she bounced in Derrick’s lap, panting and moaning as
he drove her over the edge. With his free hand he grazed her clit and she
whimpered and ground her hips hard against him. “Dammit, Derrick, I’m coming
again!” she yelled, nearly in tears and he grinned a little. A few tears ran
down her cheeks and she whimpered something about getting fucked well. He
pulled out before she had a chance to come down and slammed into her. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7-le6_PhlQ4/U0SvSA9enlI/AAAAAAAAe98/PA4tJasIoEI/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7-le6_PhlQ4/U0SvSA9enlI/AAAAAAAAe98/PA4tJasIoEI/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pulling his stiff cock out of her tight body, he moved them
to the floor. He ran his hand up and down her back and smiled to himself as he
watched her wiggle her ass at him. With a little growl, Victoria looked back at
him over her shoulder with those sexy doe eyes and smiled. “Goddamn, you turn me on,”<i> </i>he
growled as his cock slowly slipped into her burning, hot sex. She pushed her
sexy ass out to meet his thrusts each time. Derrick drove as deep as he could
inside her clenching form and swatted her ass hard.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IhxBvzoaJjg/U0SvUKY6QEI/AAAAAAAAe-E/5GQPqACW7YE/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IhxBvzoaJjg/U0SvUKY6QEI/AAAAAAAAe-E/5GQPqACW7YE/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
As he held her hips, she pushed back, forcing his cock
deeper between her thighs until he was completely sheathed within the warm
confines of her divine, silken treasure. His want matched hers as he stroked
his stiff dick into her silken walls feeling it throb inside of her. Quicker Derrick
rammed his cock deep, continuing to fuck her hard and tease her clit with his
fingers. She moaned and thrashed against him, helping him ease into her at the
same time. “Yes!” she screamed so loud it vibrated through her core and against
his thighs. “That’s it Derrick, harder!” she begged. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpLJpqB_Qo4/U0SvVsvV6hI/AAAAAAAAe-M/gmsqkLMgWgE/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BpLJpqB_Qo4/U0SvVsvV6hI/AAAAAAAAe-M/gmsqkLMgWgE/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Obediently he complied, pounding her tight, little body and
rubbing his shaft against every inch of her smooth, heated walls. Derrick
wanted Victoria to come hard and he reached under her, twisting her nipples and
making her coo in contentment. With his other hand, he teased her clit, rubbing
it quickly as he rammed harder and faster. She began screaming and moaning louder
with each thrust. “Oh god, Derrick I’m going to come again. Come with me, please,”
she pleaded.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYIqqV2SDVg/U0SvW35hy_I/AAAAAAAAe-U/s4QoZ7G47E8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tYIqqV2SDVg/U0SvW35hy_I/AAAAAAAAe-U/s4QoZ7G47E8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick felt the tremor between his legs as he continued
pumping his hips at her and he pulled her up against him, closing his mouth on
Victoria’s neck as she spasmed against him. His hand closed around her breast,
his fingers pinching her nipple as he licked and sucked the spot beneath her
ear.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, Derrick, ohh yes!” She cried, trembling and clamping
against him tightly. “Harder, harder, harder!” She screamed, nudging him over
the edge. And when he came he came quick and hard; so hard he felt as though he
would pass out as he shot round after round deep inside her body. His
teeth closed firmly against her neck, being careful not to draw blood and he
groaned primitively into her ear. Holding her closely, he ground their hips
together as his cum spurted from his angry, purple head. <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDo3oRWU4dA/U0SvYdb9ghI/AAAAAAAAe-c/WMCdokFLk2Q/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qDo3oRWU4dA/U0SvYdb9ghI/AAAAAAAAe-c/WMCdokFLk2Q/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
And after a few more pushes, he slipped out of her swollen
sex and rolled her over. Derrick kissed her deeply and held onto her for a few
moments, enjoying the warmth of her slick skin beneath him. “I love you,” he
whispered, and kissed her forehead.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love you, too.” He fell to his side and swiftly drew her
back against him. “Derrick?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hmm?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know there’s a bed down here?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know, baby, but where’s the fun in that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Os_nHeHKPtE/U0SvZHsUcqI/AAAAAAAAe-k/8uVgtysM2mo/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Os_nHeHKPtE/U0SvZHsUcqI/AAAAAAAAe-k/8uVgtysM2mo/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria giggled as Derrick’s thumb drew circles over her
belly as he held her from behind. “I missed this,” she silently confessed with
a sigh. “Happy Birthday.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you, Victoria, <i>this</i>
was the best birthday present ever.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In speaking of presents, you owe me a new pair of handcuffs,”
she smiled in post-coital bliss.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick laughed and rolled a hand through Victoria’s damp
locks before tenderly kissing her cheek. “Sure thing, baby.”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-60157565660457721752015-11-08T20:10:00.001-05:002022-03-15T11:44:20.368-04:0058: Where’d the Wendigo? – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKx-5BwHM3o/VfBY4et4WXI/AAAAAAAAq5I/jyYYjGAbe0g/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OKx-5BwHM3o/VfBY4et4WXI/AAAAAAAAq5I/jyYYjGAbe0g/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AO-PwZWaGtM/VfBY4a_DNxI/AAAAAAAAq5A/cPqSUrXSIvQ/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AO-PwZWaGtM/VfBY4a_DNxI/AAAAAAAAq5A/cPqSUrXSIvQ/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sana et Mederi. Sana, sana, Mike, sana, sana,” Victoria
chanted. It was going on the third hour she sat on the floor of Derrick’s attic
conjuring potions, performing rituals and casting magic. Tirelessly, she’d
researched information on cures and healing spells and though none ever seemed
to work she was determined to keep trying. And Hades, her loyal and lovable
companion, stood watch over his master while she went in and out of trance. Taking
hold of the Athamé, she slit her palm open and let the drops of her blood pour
into the mortar and crushed it between herbs with her pestle. “Exurge, exurge,
exurge. Sana, sana. Látum lausa Draco Sanguinem. Sana, sana, sana,” Victoria continued.</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XQ74v3cLGw/VfBY4iG5VPI/AAAAAAAAq5E/x23ul012iUo/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1XQ74v3cLGw/VfBY4iG5VPI/AAAAAAAAq5E/x23ul012iUo/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10B38U0T4sU/VfBZC3McRqI/AAAAAAAAq5Y/SVfSetCyT5Q/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-10B38U0T4sU/VfBZC3McRqI/AAAAAAAAq5Y/SVfSetCyT5Q/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick stood as the door to his attic opened. Slowly, he approached
her, taking in her appearance and that of Hades as well. Instantly, his eyes
moved to her wrist and the bandage around her palm. “You’re bleeding.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, were you using blood magic in there?” When she
didn’t answer, Derrick moved closer and immediately Hades snapped up, growling
at the vampire and causing him to back away. “Do you have any idea how dangerous
that is?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FymkX6pnGeQ/VfBZDycsJSI/AAAAAAAAq5c/ax8NaIgoKr4/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FymkX6pnGeQ/VfBZDycsJSI/AAAAAAAAq5c/ax8NaIgoKr4/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Danger is an everyday occurrence for me so risking it for
Mike wouldn’t even warrant a second thought.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, I’m only here to use the magic room you set up for
me. If I wanted advice, I would hire a therapist.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I’m talking to you as a friend.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_AIFpwapr4c/VfBZE3wtuCI/AAAAAAAAq5o/I9Im4pJiZTI/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_AIFpwapr4c/VfBZE3wtuCI/AAAAAAAAq5o/I9Im4pJiZTI/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And as my friend, you should understand. I’d do whatever is
necessary to help those I love.” Derrick bowed his head and nodded. Moving
again, slowly so as not to anger Hades, he pulled Victoria into his arms and
apologized. Gently kissing her forehead before examining the wound on her hand.
“I told you it was fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And I just wanted to be sure,” he smiled as he rewrapped
her wrist. “Think it worked?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We’ll know tonight, one way or the other.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come on. I’ll drive you to work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0H8RUYpMBog/VfBZN4bagjI/AAAAAAAAq5w/SKnqBdyrYjs/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0H8RUYpMBog/VfBZN4bagjI/AAAAAAAAq5w/SKnqBdyrYjs/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckYLF467Uhw/VfBZPYWOfGI/AAAAAAAAq50/4P3PP11yT_Y/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ckYLF467Uhw/VfBZPYWOfGI/AAAAAAAAq50/4P3PP11yT_Y/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There’s the birthday boy!” Mike announced, seeing Derrick
and Victoria enter the front door. “How does it feel to be older than most of
my family and friends combined?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Like I was born tomorrow,” Derrick replied with a smirk.
“Let’s not forget I could take most of your friends and family in a marathon
around the world and not break a sweat.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wait, but do dead people even sweat though?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now, now, Mikey. Derrick’s not dead, he’s UN-dead,”
Victoria corrected with a wink. “You two catch up and I’ll be right back.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vik, we need to talk about something,” Mike said. Derrick followed his
eyes and smiled inwardly.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Five minutes, Mike, tops.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v94DbZvYH7g/VfBZQYXwKnI/AAAAAAAAq58/h_atKToDpCM/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v94DbZvYH7g/VfBZQYXwKnI/AAAAAAAAq58/h_atKToDpCM/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PkXWOU7HUQ4/VfBZakfBqxI/AAAAAAAAq6I/L86fCDkuEmY/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PkXWOU7HUQ4/VfBZakfBqxI/AAAAAAAAq6I/L86fCDkuEmY/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Moving back around his desk, Mike shut the book he was
reading and pretended to organize the papers in his filing tray. “I’m not
dangerous, Mike, if that’s what you’re wondering.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s not. Why would I wonder that? I trust Victoria. And if
she’s comfortable being around you or leaving you alone with a wheelchair bound
man, I trust it’s because she doesn’t consider you to be a threat.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then why are you so nervous?” Derrick asked, taking a seat
in a chair in front of him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My nerves have nothing to do with you; not directly,
anyway.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NUF9sFHQs_Y/VfBZbi85CpI/AAAAAAAAq6U/CnMYJRxHJog/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NUF9sFHQs_Y/VfBZbi85CpI/AAAAAAAAq6U/CnMYJRxHJog/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxG9ZD4ZXp8/VfBZbeikK_I/AAAAAAAAq6M/uhXZQcU2Uvs/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VxG9ZD4ZXp8/VfBZbeikK_I/AAAAAAAAq6M/uhXZQcU2Uvs/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what does that mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What are you? Two? What’s with all the questions?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m curious by nature. Humor me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, Derrick, if you must know, it’s this case you sent
us,” Mike replied, pushing a manila folder towards him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Marguerite’s missing daughter?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Marguerite’s missing <i>wendigo</i>
daughter.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah…” Before Derrick could reply, both men turned towards
the door as Victoria reentered, singing.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvwLEzduwM8/VfBZmwuwrCI/AAAAAAAAq6g/cT-6n6VDEqI/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bvwLEzduwM8/VfBZmwuwrCI/AAAAAAAAq6g/cT-6n6VDEqI/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77PauQQj55o/VfBZn4weo3I/AAAAAAAAq6k/p48Vs2A2w8E/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77PauQQj55o/VfBZn4weo3I/AAAAAAAAq6k/p48Vs2A2w8E/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you. Happy
Birthday, dear Derrick, Happy Birthday to you,” she carefully strolled towards
them holding a cake with the number 418 on top. Derrick stood with a huge smile
on his face as she finally stopped and Mike wheeled his chair around closer as
he joined in. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…” Derrick started, his smile widening as he
continued staring at the flickering flames. “I don’t know what to say.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well don’t say anything! Just make a wish and blow out your
candles!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I wish…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“NO!” Mike quickly yelled. “You’re not supposed to wish out
loud or else it won’t come true.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick’s brow flinched and Victoria laughed. “Trust him.
He’s very superstitious.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I am not,” Mike protested to which Victoria furiously
nodded yes. Derrick smiled at the two, closed his eyes briefly and blew out the
candles.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“YAY!” Victoria cheered and placed the cake on Mike’s desk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukhIR__hNmA/VfBZojLkyTI/AAAAAAAAq6s/vlKC4fbXxEI/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukhIR__hNmA/VfBZojLkyTI/AAAAAAAAq6s/vlKC4fbXxEI/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yb8-eSdjPMI/VfBZxkmUu7I/AAAAAAAAq64/r1vsuEZdEwc/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yb8-eSdjPMI/VfBZxkmUu7I/AAAAAAAAq64/r1vsuEZdEwc/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike rolled towards his filing cabinet and grabbed a small
box from the bottom drawer. “This is from me and Aria. We put a lot of thought
into so…hope you like it.” Derrick quickly unwrapped the gift and pulled out a
coupon booklet with a Kama Sutra couple portrayed on the cover. “It’s a sex
voucher pad. You give a coupon to your significant other for the specific sex act
described and they are obligated to comply. It’s categorized by each orifice.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wow, Mike, that’s a very thoughtful gift,” Victoria
replied, scrunching her nose at him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I agree,” Derrick smirked as he thumbed through the pages
and wiggled his eyebrows towards Victoria. “This should <i>really</i> come in handy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“See, Vik, tools and sex.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p1TdZDNkg7Q/VfBZz6VApJI/AAAAAAAAq7A/q5Iv-cvDCEg/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p1TdZDNkg7Q/VfBZz6VApJI/AAAAAAAAq7A/q5Iv-cvDCEg/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well ok then,” Victoria sighed, closing the book up in
Derrick’s hand. “My turn!” She skipped over to her desk and returned with a
large, pink box and a smile. “Open it!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her excited dancing made Derrick grin again and he quickly
tore through the paper and tape until he was left holding a PlayStation 4 and
two video games. “Staked 3 and Van Helsing: The Gathering. You know…I don’t
really play video games,” he replied, setting the box in the chair behind him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know but I thought these would be great to help you let
off some of that extra vampire energy you have.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There are better ways to burn energy, Victoria,” he smirked
and inched closer.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sex,” Mike fake sneezed and smiled.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWfkUBj0IIU/VfBZ003tBBI/AAAAAAAAq7E/uKUwe25vg44/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWfkUBj0IIU/VfBZ003tBBI/AAAAAAAAq7E/uKUwe25vg44/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah and then there are video games!” Victoria replied,
ignoring her partner’s outburst. “Come on…do you have any idea how hard it is
shopping for you? I’ve literally stared at my screen all day long trying to
find SOMETHING that I thought you would like.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She’s telling the truth. She even started talking to her
monitor like it was purposely suggesting bad gifts.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“See! You’re not the easiest person to shop for. I was all
over the place. You weren’t too keen on my Christmas gift and you’re not the
teddy bears and chocolates kind of guy and so…in the end, I went with something
<i>I </i>liked.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8G48lJOWGGg/VfBZ82Pu9sI/AAAAAAAAq7Q/nNU4rZdkbVA/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8G48lJOWGGg/VfBZ82Pu9sI/AAAAAAAAq7Q/nNU4rZdkbVA/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GJBUt6OwFKo/VfBaB1nOpPI/AAAAAAAAq7c/Vp91xd9oM9I/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GJBUt6OwFKo/VfBaB1nOpPI/AAAAAAAAq7c/Vp91xd9oM9I/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s perfect, Victoria, anything from you is always
perfect. Thank you. The cake looks delicious and I see you even have balloons
and streamers…I’ve not celebrated my birthday since I was 25 and I mean <i>actually</i> 25. This is great.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good. I hope you enjoy it. I’ve invited a few people over,
a very small group, Captain Ed, Eve from the club…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My bartender?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. She seemed genuinely excited about the party. Perry’s
coming and Cole,” she whispered the last part and looked away. When she turned
back to face him, the smile had not vanished and she greeted him with one of
her own.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zEfSuI30Sb0/VfBaNI1ffXI/AAAAAAAAq7w/WOaMhTVjPcw/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zEfSuI30Sb0/VfBaNI1ffXI/AAAAAAAAq7w/WOaMhTVjPcw/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Zd2csby2PQ/VfBaPB0oFiI/AAAAAAAAq74/POrejcNKBmI/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7Zd2csby2PQ/VfBaPB0oFiI/AAAAAAAAq74/POrejcNKBmI/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“All of this and it’s not the 7<sup>th</sup>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I was hoping to get the party and stuff done today
that way I can have you all to myself tomorrow.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well in that case, it sounds like you have everything
worked out.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I try,” Victoria giggled as she felt Derrick’s lips edging
their way down her neck.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Um…not alone in this room…stop it or else I’m getting the
hose,” Mike threatened and watched the two pull away. “That’s better. Now, Vik,
since you’re not busy…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8gey1CRwo/VfBaUUU3LMI/AAAAAAAAq8A/bDM2SZYm3Rc/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Rn8gey1CRwo/VfBaUUU3LMI/AAAAAAAAq8A/bDM2SZYm3Rc/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhSSlRuRfyk/VfBaZZBEWdI/AAAAAAAAq8I/0HfGv7_zAdI/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nhSSlRuRfyk/VfBaZZBEWdI/AAAAAAAAq8I/0HfGv7_zAdI/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey, hey!” Mike was interrupted as the first party guest
arrived. “Happy birthday, Boss,” Eve grinned and waved a box in her hand.
“Where are we putting the gifts?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right this way,” Mike groaned and wheeled himself out of
the room. Victoria smiled at Derrick and pulled him behind her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll grab more ice from the freezer,” Victoria announced
and merrily bounced towards the kitchen. Mike seized the opportunity and rolled
in behind her. “Mike, enjoying the party?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We seriously need to talk.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok. What about?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eebNwPDMeJw/VfBaaa6ESVI/AAAAAAAAq8M/8_j7uZggfqo/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eebNwPDMeJw/VfBaaa6ESVI/AAAAAAAAq8M/8_j7uZggfqo/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Our missing child case.” Victoria sat the bag of ice beside
the door, motioned to Derrick to grab it and followed Mike into the upstairs office.
“For starters, I’ve been doing a lot of research into Wendigoes, because I
admit I knew nothing about them. And what I’m finding out ain’t good. Did you
know they’re basically cannibals? And yes, I am talking about the eating human
flesh kind only they do it while the victim is still alive!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qc7MO7zQU9U/VfBad6HkvUI/AAAAAAAAq8Y/iejMXW1XU9M/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qc7MO7zQU9U/VfBad6HkvUI/AAAAAAAAq8Y/iejMXW1XU9M/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike grabbed a book from one of the shelves and propped it
open for Victoria to see. “‘The Wendigo is a demonic half-beast creature
appearing in the legends of the Algonquian peoples along the Atlantic Coast and
Great Lakes Region of both the United States and Canada. The creature or spirit
could either possess characteristics of a human or a monster that had physically
transformed from a person.’ Vik, I’m not sure we should be doing this I mean…if
this is correct our ‘victim’ is really a perp! And just how many people have
they indulged themselves on?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike, I think you’re over thinking it. Our client paid us
to find her daughter. Her daughter has no idea what she is and what will happen
come full moon tomorrow night. What we should be focusing on is where she could
be and, perhaps, who may have taken her.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b5l1GFdSCA/VfBakzxz6fI/AAAAAAAAq8g/LsN-xzmxOqE/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7b5l1GFdSCA/VfBakzxz6fI/AAAAAAAAq8g/LsN-xzmxOqE/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah. I have a few ideas about that, too. Remember when we
had the discussion about what you were and you told me about Turner and Briggs
who were um…changed as well? Maybe what we have here are a couple of, I don’t
know, supernatural hunters who may have taken Kelly to satisfy some quota.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh my god, Mike, I think you might be on to something. Hold
on a sec,” Victoria replied and rushed from the room. When she returned she was
holding a large case folder and map. “When I was first coming to terms about
what I am, I stumbled onto a cult of crazed supernatural fanatics who were
attacking people they believed to have mystical energy. They call themselves
the Cult of the Damned. One of them attacked me yelling gibberish in
Latin…almost killed me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Holy shit, Vik, I had no idea.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvFM9V7ao2M/VfBamlUN5TI/AAAAAAAAq8o/bL_NYjOaykc/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nvFM9V7ao2M/VfBamlUN5TI/AAAAAAAAq8o/bL_NYjOaykc/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know but, I’m fine. Anyway, this attack led me to a
serial killer taking body parts off of other supernatural creatures as part of
some ritual,” she stated as she spread open the folder and placed the documents
for Mike to see. “The case went cold after the last attack but I speculated the
killer, or killers, weren’t quite finished.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean those cases we worked as cops were actually all
connected?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. I couldn’t tell you then because, well…” Mike nodded
and Victoria continued. “The woman we found in the alley, drained of blood and
the two before her were all attacked by a vampire. Derrick and I tracked down
the culprit and put him to dust but it turns out he was a copycat. The real
killer is still out there somewhere. But, if you’re right, this could be the
same guy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“If that’s the case, he’d have already killed her by now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlP_gsUX9Hk/VfBarOU21aI/AAAAAAAAq8w/hK4K7ZLR4nk/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zlP_gsUX9Hk/VfBarOU21aI/AAAAAAAAq8w/hK4K7ZLR4nk/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-022fJVs2zAM/VfBavSCZ5VI/AAAAAAAAq84/I36SIe16z0I/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-022fJVs2zAM/VfBavSCZ5VI/AAAAAAAAq84/I36SIe16z0I/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not exactly. See, this guy collects parts of a supernatural
creature. If Kelly hasn’t changed yet, he will have to wait for her to take her
form before he can collect whatever it is he’s after. Vampire fangs, fairy
wings, pixie dust, zombie skin, elf ears, whatever, it all has to be collected
when the creature is in form.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So what was the woman in the alley? Or the two others for
that matter.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Witches,” Victoria sighed and dropped into the chair beside
him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wait a second, Victoria…you could be in some serious danger
here.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know,” she replied. “But we can’t worry about that right
now. Kelly is missing and if she’s with this guy…she’s the one in serious
danger.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nE7iP2_5kGE/VfBa0NmMaBI/AAAAAAAAq9A/V0DqpAGBqQM/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nE7iP2_5kGE/VfBa0NmMaBI/AAAAAAAAq9A/V0DqpAGBqQM/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the party was over, Mike and Victoria closed up shop
with an agreement to get back to work at first light. But Victoria’s mind was
too amped up to sleep. Instead, after getting home, she pulled out copies of
case files she’d kept from the Avondale Police department concerning the three
women and went to work. <i>Why hadn’t she
seen it?</i> She knew this guy wasn’t done. In fact she had been waiting for
another of his kills to hit the news, but all seemed quiet. This could very
well be his first foray back into the slayings. Or, it would be wise of her to
check into other missing person’s cases and any of her cold case files for a
connection.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_XlPnXsTOJ4/VfBa3gkhUZI/AAAAAAAAq9I/xFR-YzMGCuw/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_XlPnXsTOJ4/VfBa3gkhUZI/AAAAAAAAq9I/xFR-YzMGCuw/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What do you want with Kelly?” she asked aloud as she went
over Wendigo anatomy. Nothing in particular jump out at her concerning unique
make up. Although, it was theorized that their craving for human flesh was the
cause of a mental condition. Somehow she didn’t think the killer was after
Kelly’s brain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHimNT3hACg/VfBa67HkwkI/AAAAAAAAq9Q/3iLNlaNxi_s/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JHimNT3hACg/VfBa67HkwkI/AAAAAAAAq9Q/3iLNlaNxi_s/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria continued staring at the images of the Wendigo
until, finally, something <i>did</i> jump
out at her. “HORNS!” she yelled for her audience which consisted of a sleeping
Hades and a muted TV. “He’s after her horns!” Pulling open the top of a box
beside her back door, Victoria located one of the books Derrick had brought her
at the start of her information gathering. “A Wendigo’s horns are fabled to be
the source of their power. Their abilities to move at neck-breaking speeds,
mimic their prey, and change to and from their natural stages appear to be
linked to the size, shape and formation of a set of horns. It is him!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The phone rang, disrupting her flow, but before she could
grab it, the answering machine picked up. “Victoria?” Mike’s anxious voice
erupted over the machine. “Victoria, it’s Mike. Get to my place, quick! It’s…it’s…hurry!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vRJorP6_ZOw/VfBa-r5xBnI/AAAAAAAAq9Y/xr39dY31L2s/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vRJorP6_ZOw/VfBa-r5xBnI/AAAAAAAAq9Y/xr39dY31L2s/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh no,” she whispered to herself and dropped the book she
was reading to the floor. Changing into a decent pair of clothes, Victoria
raced out her front door and used every back street she knew to get to her
partner. She arrived in under ten minutes and hurried up his stoop. “Mike?”
Hammering his door until she heard the latch click, Victoria finally found
herself standing in his living room. “Are you ok? Your voice sounded urgent.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, yeah, I’m fine. I just…you’re not going to believe this,”
he replied, a big, childlike grin on his face. “Stand back.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1jR_7HxYJww/VfBbC2v1UDI/AAAAAAAAq9g/0sb4CdTgy8E/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1jR_7HxYJww/VfBbC2v1UDI/AAAAAAAAq9g/0sb4CdTgy8E/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLgxVBQOfNg/VfBbOV_i0EI/AAAAAAAAq94/kfTv93szHGA/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RLgxVBQOfNg/VfBbOV_i0EI/AAAAAAAAq94/kfTv93szHGA/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JcpbU5bahWM/VfBbUgMHTZI/AAAAAAAAq-A/Q6NwJJXgM9M/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JcpbU5bahWM/VfBbUgMHTZI/AAAAAAAAq-A/Q6NwJJXgM9M/s640/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria did as told and gave him a suitable amount of
space. Taking a breath, Mike gripped the arms of his wheelchair tightly and
slowly placed both feet on the floor. In one, measured movement, he straightened
his legs until he was sufficiently supporting his weight and leisurely moved
one foot. “MIKE!” Victoria shouted. “YOU’RE WALKING!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I KNOW!” he responded, with equal shock and awe. But,
taking another step, Mike found himself falling face first to the floor with a
large thump.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike!” Victoria quickly moved forward.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s ok, it’s ok, I got it,” he smiled, rolled himself to
his back and pushed himself to a seated position. She dropped to the floor as
well and scooted up beside him. “You did this, didn’t you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” Victoria asked, scrunching her nose at him in
confusion. <o:p></o:p>“No. Why would you ask that?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fg2AxhFsw1E/VfBbXBxamqI/AAAAAAAAq-M/R-qS8FtF6L4/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fg2AxhFsw1E/VfBbXBxamqI/AAAAAAAAq-M/R-qS8FtF6L4/s640/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because the doctors, every one I went to, said I was beyond hope;
that my spine would never heal barring some miracle. And I don’t know. I may be
Catholic but I honestly don’t believe this was a miracle. I was just sitting
here, preparing to head to bed when I got this tingling in my thighs. My toes
started wiggling and pretty soon sensation returned in my legs. And I just get
this feeling that you were somehow involved.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think that’s the sleep talking, partner.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine. Be that way. Pretend like you didn’t cast some hoodoo
on me, witch, but I know the truth,” he laughed and bumped her shoulder with
his. But pretty soon, his laughter turned to tears and Victoria threw her arm
around him and hugged him close. “Thank you. Thank you for this, Vik. I can’t
tell you what it means to…”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mr6hWRJZdV8/VfBbXKY39gI/AAAAAAAAq-I/IqEu50AUItM/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mr6hWRJZdV8/VfBbXKY39gI/AAAAAAAAq-I/IqEu50AUItM/s640/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynx92sgcsKo/VfBbatJv3bI/AAAAAAAAq-Y/8Aibkw5H2kM/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ynx92sgcsKo/VfBbatJv3bI/AAAAAAAAq-Y/8Aibkw5H2kM/s640/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Any time, Mikey. Besides, I got tired of vacuuming out the
tracks your wheels left in the carpet,” she joked and listened to him laugh.
They sat for a while and she watched as he flexed and wiggled his toes,
enjoying the sensation of movement. “So…Mike, you know you’re sitting here in
your underwear, right?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. I should probably do something about that, huh?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I thought you were going to bed.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you kidding? My legs are working again, there are too
many things to do and so much I’ve missed out on. You and I are heading back to
the office and getting to work. And don’t give me that look. I know you. You’re
not tired. You were at home working on this case.” Mike hopped up and trotted
towards the stairs. “Just give me fifteen minutes to jump into the shower and
then we’re off.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
-----------------------------------------------------------<br />
*The Latin words Victoria spoke during her spell were: <span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">‘</span>Heal
and cure. Heal, heal, Mike, heal, heal. Rise, rise, rise. Heal, heal. Let loose
Dragon’s blood. Heal, heal, heal.<span style="font-family: "palatino linotype" , serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">’</span>*<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
*Wendigo definition courtesy of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wendigo">Wikipedia</a>.*<br />
<br />
*Images of Wendigo courtesy of <a href="http://es.dementium.wikia.com/wiki/Archivo:Wendigo.jpg">Dementium</a>, <a href="http://tiffanyturrill.deviantart.com/art/Wendigo-464781543">Tiffanyturrill</a>, and <a href="http://timterrenal.deviantart.com/art/Wendigo-263841694">Timterrenal</a>.*<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/12/59-whered-wendigo-pt-3.html">Continue----></a>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-48410657993602105292015-10-25T22:06:00.001-04:002020-04-13T08:51:37.434-04:0057: Where’d the Wendigo? – Pt. 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P44Gz4vjVZ0/Ve2DFEmTg7I/AAAAAAAAqsI/ZZGWEWcgnPs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P44Gz4vjVZ0/Ve2DFEmTg7I/AAAAAAAAqsI/ZZGWEWcgnPs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hRGhX8PFAXw/Ve2DGUrYdtI/AAAAAAAAqsM/UxJs8M7ACHg/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hRGhX8PFAXw/Ve2DGUrYdtI/AAAAAAAAqsM/UxJs8M7ACHg/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re still staring at that?” Mike’s voiced interrupted
Victoria’s thoughts but her eyes remained glued on the computer screen in front
of her. She had been browsing through several gifting websites trying to find
the perfect present for Derrick’s birthday. “Vik, I’m telling you guys aren’t
so hung up over gifts as you might think. Sex, beer or some sort of tool and
you’re golden.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That might work for you, Mike, but I’m not sure Derrick is
the ‘tools’ sort of guy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’ll work, trust me. He’ll be what? 419?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
“418,” Victoria corrected with a sigh.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6K1j-IFUaWw/Ve2DGd-LilI/AAAAAAAAqsU/dVjzr-r8kqg/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6K1j-IFUaWw/Ve2DGd-LilI/AAAAAAAAqsU/dVjzr-r8kqg/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4pmIGDxD1Fs/Ve2DR8TN8cI/AAAAAAAAqso/bKcCn7xnvSM/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4pmIGDxD1Fs/Ve2DR8TN8cI/AAAAAAAAqso/bKcCn7xnvSM/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right and you think he’s really that concerned about
another birthday? The guy has to have been there, done that 400 times over.”
Victoria shot him a look and Mike chewed on his inner cheek with a wide-eyed
expression. “I—that’s not what—I didn’t mean it like that, Vik. I only meant…” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know what you meant. But that’s also what makes this that
much harder. I mean Derrick has had no one. The last of his living relatives
died before the United States even became a country! I just want to get him
something that shows he isn’t alone anymore.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDQgpE9PqhM/Ve2DPJf9rhI/AAAAAAAAqsg/U1VF02lnLsM/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDQgpE9PqhM/Ve2DPJf9rhI/AAAAAAAAqsg/U1VF02lnLsM/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sex,” Mike tried again with a smile at the fluster on his
partner’s face. “I mean sure you can do it alone. But it’s <i>so</i> much better with a partner.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Mike. You know you’re really no help at all!” she
huffed and clicked on the next website on the list. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey, so what’s the deal with you two anyway?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Deal? What do you mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDGFd5IK8Bc/Ve2DS6VgPgI/AAAAAAAAqss/ud3FYIkOkCA/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDGFd5IK8Bc/Ve2DS6VgPgI/AAAAAAAAqss/ud3FYIkOkCA/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know. The last time you two were in the same room together things seemed…tense. And now you’re over there shopping for birthday presents. What gives?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh. Well…we’re working things out I think. Um…Derrick is—was—well <i>is</i> going through something. He’s…not…quite himself,” she paused while gauging Mike’s expression before continuing. “It’s sorta like a mystical hangover. I’m trying to help him, you know, get over it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh huh. And is he dangerous when he’s ‘not quite himself’?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. But it’s mostly other um…vampires.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G03Y1zONb2g/Ve2DX7s3III/AAAAAAAAqs4/IdH0oLRMJW4/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G03Y1zONb2g/Ve2DX7s3III/AAAAAAAAqs4/IdH0oLRMJW4/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mostly?” Victoria nodded and Mike sighed. “I see. I guess
I’ll have to stock up on crosses and holy water then.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well crosses won’t…,” she smiled and made a gesture around
her neck. “He wears a cross. It doesn’t seem to harm him. But as I said, you
have absolutely nothing to worry about. I’ve warded you and everyone else I
know. Just in case.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks. But that doesn’t make me feel a whole lot better,”
he replied with a sigh. “You know dog owners always claim their pooch won’t
bite when they have a whole mouth full of sharp teeth.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VK75y78kc_0/Ve2DdqxBMmI/AAAAAAAAqtA/UZ1lG7Pbin0/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VK75y78kc_0/Ve2DdqxBMmI/AAAAAAAAqtA/UZ1lG7Pbin0/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vu_6Od2lR-A/Ve2DfF6QdhI/AAAAAAAAqtI/xL73pFAYHBY/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vu_6Od2lR-A/Ve2DfF6QdhI/AAAAAAAAqtI/xL73pFAYHBY/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The front door opened, hitting the bells hanging above it
and she closed out of the websites at the prospect of a new client. “Hello,
welcome to Moonlight, how can we be of assistance?” Victoria’s overly chipper
voice made Mike look in her direction with a confused expression and she stuck
her tongue at him before standing and addressing the woman face-to-face.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F245tbXZfcc/Ve2Dj_k1GnI/AAAAAAAAqtQ/jRSzbZDddXo/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F245tbXZfcc/Ve2Dj_k1GnI/AAAAAAAAqtQ/jRSzbZDddXo/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-goH0iapJLyo/Ve2DqORsvVI/AAAAAAAAqtY/jdX27_5Q2DQ/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-goH0iapJLyo/Ve2DqORsvVI/AAAAAAAAqtY/jdX27_5Q2DQ/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh I really hope you can. My name is Marguerite Mitchell,” the brown-haired, middle-aged woman nearly collapsed where she stood as she began crying,
tugging at the clasp on her handbag as she struggled to open it. “My daughter’s
missing and I need you to find her,” she replied, offering a picture to the
detectives. Victoria took a look at the photograph before handing it to her
partner. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Have you filed a police report?” Mike asked, going into cop
mode. This time it was Victoria shooting <i>him</i> a dirty look as if to say ‘you’re
scaring away potential clients’ and he simply shrugged.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, but they won’t take me seriously. At first they told me I’ll
have to wait 48 hours before they can officially begin looking. A lot can
happen to her in that time. When I told them she’ll be 18 soon, they referred me to missing persons’ and said since she’s legally an adult, there’s not much else they can do! Please, you have to help me find her!”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuB4Heii0Ok/Ve2DrZ6QNAI/AAAAAAAAqtg/QnuoHUFLjBk/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WuB4Heii0Ok/Ve2DrZ6QNAI/AAAAAAAAqtg/QnuoHUFLjBk/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHfPWyfjSFk/Ve2DyFcqHZI/AAAAAAAAqto/SLeXdymIXnM/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pHfPWyfjSFk/Ve2DyFcqHZI/AAAAAAAAqto/SLeXdymIXnM/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course Ma’am, we’ll do everything we can. Here,”
Victoria directed her to the chairs in front of her desk, “Have a seat.” She
sat on the edge of her desk as the crying woman rested to her right and offered
her a box of tissues and a glass of water. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now what can you tell us about your daughter’s disappearance?
Let’s start with her name first please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JWzR4p_uprk/Ve2D2WxE86I/AAAAAAAAqtw/OMw0eaJP7P4/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JWzR4p_uprk/Ve2D2WxE86I/AAAAAAAAqtw/OMw0eaJP7P4/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A9JEhKmLpM/Ve2D8-BeMII/AAAAAAAAqt4/3Cvz7XEyk30/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7A9JEhKmLpM/Ve2D8-BeMII/AAAAAAAAqt4/3Cvz7XEyk30/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Kelly Matheson and she’s 17. She’ll be 18 on Sunday. She was
supposed to spend the weekend with her father. Daniel and I are divorced and he
has supervised weekends. Since she wouldn’t be in town she asked if she could
spend the night at one of her friend’s house so they could celebrate her
birthday that day. I agreed but only if she called me when they got in to let
me know everything was alright. When she didn’t call, I immediately contacted
Stacy’s mother to ask if the girls had made it to her home safely. She told me
Stacy was in her room, alone, and she hadn’t seen Kelly all day. Naturally my
first reaction was to call her phone but after repeated voicemail reroutings I
called the police.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PqarsWU3unA/Ve2D_tgcFHI/AAAAAAAAquA/A3NeNgo9cP0/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PqarsWU3unA/Ve2D_tgcFHI/AAAAAAAAquA/A3NeNgo9cP0/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dejPod7xM3U/Ve2EDau3KEI/AAAAAAAAquI/lkohNKbx-CA/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dejPod7xM3U/Ve2EDau3KEI/AAAAAAAAquI/lkohNKbx-CA/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What can you tell us about your ex-husband? Was it a bad
breakup? Does he have a criminal record that you know of?” Mike asked, pulling
up the Nexus so he could begin adding details into the system for a proper
search.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Matheson is his last name, he lives in Piedmont and he
works as an Electrical Engineer for Pendleton Construction. The only thing I
can tell you as far as a criminal history goes is he and his two older brothers
were arrested for possession when he was a teen. His record was supposedly
expunged for the offense.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Have you spoken to him about Kelly?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iPOmynuAd4A/Ve2EIzegheI/AAAAAAAAquQ/3B-QSG741CU/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iPOmynuAd4A/Ve2EIzegheI/AAAAAAAAquQ/3B-QSG741CU/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk2a8PgmfJ8/Ve2EQVHYDuI/AAAAAAAAqug/CaROxjN2W_w/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lk2a8PgmfJ8/Ve2EQVHYDuI/AAAAAAAAqug/CaROxjN2W_w/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Danny says he hasn’t seen her,” she sniveled and swiped a
rolling tear off her cheek. “It’s really important that I find her and soon.
The hunter’s moon is tomorrow night.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What…does…that…mean?” Mike asked hesitantly, peering over
the top of his monitor towards the crying woman.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“I’m sorry, I thought he’d told you; he mentioned that he
would give you a call to let you know I was on the way. He’s been a friend of
my family for a long time and I trust him. He said that you would be able to
help; that you would understand the special circumstances.”<br />
<br />
“I’m sorry, special circumstances?” Victoria asked, pulling up slightly from her seat.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3uM2JRKaTqo/Ve2ENaTQawI/AAAAAAAAquY/355t_iTV1g0/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3uM2JRKaTqo/Ve2ENaTQawI/AAAAAAAAquY/355t_iTV1g0/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiW49MTA8hI/Ve2EVBuUl_I/AAAAAAAAquo/pb3g2kkiOk8/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GiW49MTA8hI/Ve2EVBuUl_I/AAAAAAAAquo/pb3g2kkiOk8/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
“Yes. Kelly is a Wendigo.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A W-Wendigo?” Mike asked incredulously and Mrs. Mitchell
nodded. His fingers stopped moving across his keyboard and he stared at the
woman wide-eyed and slack jawed. “A Wendigo?” he repeated and she nodded once
more.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excuse me, you said you were told by a friend that we could
help. Who would that be?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick. Derrick Constantine.” Victoria moaned in her
throat and stood completely. “Look, Kelly hasn’t changed yet, which is why it’s
important I find her. She has no idea what’s going to happen. Danny and I
wanted to wait until her transition before we told her about our family’s
history.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your daughter has no idea she’s a Wendigo?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJRz3XY3nJo/Ve2EZdg933I/AAAAAAAAquw/BCU77PLWCqU/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iJRz3XY3nJo/Ve2EZdg933I/AAAAAAAAquw/BCU77PLWCqU/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Danny and I thought it was best to wait. We ran from our
first home when certain animal instincts took over and we didn’t want that to
happen again so we’ve lived in secret. It was better for Kelly to grow up
without having to fear for her life.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I understand. Don’t worry. We will do everything in our
power to find your daughter.” Victoria glanced over at her partner and sighed.
“Mike, could you take down all of Mrs. Mitchell’s information while I get in
contact with Mr. Constantine please?” she held a smile in front of the client
but it was obvious she was fuming on the inside.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sure thing.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-STxDNtZzaZE/Ve2Ec0h1YKI/AAAAAAAAqu4/B2blqaqc47E/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-STxDNtZzaZE/Ve2Ec0h1YKI/AAAAAAAAqu4/B2blqaqc47E/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYQn_wTRoAY/Ve2Ei89vgxI/AAAAAAAAqvA/cLJtXa3XYBo/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYQn_wTRoAY/Ve2Ei89vgxI/AAAAAAAAqvA/cLJtXa3XYBo/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mrs. Mitchell moved to the other side of the room and
Victoria backed behind her desk, collected her weapon from the bottom drawer
and exited the building. On the ride to Derrick’s place, the only question that
kept popping into her head was <i>how?</i>
How had Derrick made contact with this new client when she’d left him chained up and locked in his basement?<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEdwzIWAEGY/Ve2EjJjWyUI/AAAAAAAAqvE/EaQX-hl9roY/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CEdwzIWAEGY/Ve2EjJjWyUI/AAAAAAAAqvE/EaQX-hl9roY/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pushing the thick marble wall to the side, Victoria stepped
through to the other section of Derrick’s large basement. The first time he’d
shown her this secret room, she nearly lost her lunch on his shoes. It was a
close encounter with a part of Derrick she was still not prepared for, no
matter how much she convinced herself otherwise. The number of vile things
she’d imagined took place in this dark, wretched and dank hole were endless.
And the smears of blood and clumps of human hair and even fingernails jutting
out of the stone walls did little to ease concern towards her own safety. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ElS7saXIkSU/Ve43W1qMabI/AAAAAAAAq4w/R8BdAiVKe0g/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ElS7saXIkSU/Ve43W1qMabI/AAAAAAAAq4w/R8BdAiVKe0g/s640/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EJdAM8KLo88/Ve2El_eKxtI/AAAAAAAAqvQ/JDoM97UbqSA/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EJdAM8KLo88/Ve2El_eKxtI/AAAAAAAAqvQ/JDoM97UbqSA/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick propped his head up as he heard the outer door give
way and greeted Victoria with a weak smile as she entered the room. Three
weeks. Three full weeks he’d relinquished control to her and allowed himself to
be bound in the chains where so many helpless victims had been confined. He was
on a plasma cleanse. Reducing his addiction to veins cold turkey. The first few
days were the hardest. No amount of alternative methods, that is animal blood
or procured bags of plasma from the local hospitals, were enough to sate his voracious
hunger.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria had been threatened and called every bitch in the
book by sun down on the first week. But early on in week two, Derrick had
appeared to be back to his old self again. As a precaution, they agreed to keep
going one more week but for all intents and purposes, Derrick was healed. “I
brought you some more cow’s blood. The butcher was all out of pig.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
“Thank you,” he replied as he watched her place the bags of blood on the table near the door.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oNKC8ZNg8v8/Ve2EqbGen3I/AAAAAAAAqvY/p17UWozGNcM/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oNKC8ZNg8v8/Ve2EqbGen3I/AAAAAAAAqvY/p17UWozGNcM/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QouhQsG6LRk/Ve2EsM-a4SI/AAAAAAAAqvg/ZwVUY-MH7Ak/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QouhQsG6LRk/Ve2EsM-a4SI/AAAAAAAAqvg/ZwVUY-MH7Ak/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We met with a friend of yours today; Mike and me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A friend?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Marguerite Mitchell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah. How is she?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not so great. Her daughter is missing. But the question I’m
wondering is, how did you call her about us when you’ve been here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Word-of-mouth?” Derrick replied with a shrug. “I haven’t
talked to Marguerite in…five months.” Victoria sighed and stopped pacing in front
of him, satisfied with his answer but still puzzled over Marguerite’s appearance
today. If it wasn’t Derrick then… “How’ve you been?” he asked, interrupting her
train of thought.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJX8uI4wxZI/Ve2EtD8FgXI/AAAAAAAAqvk/kVn6iVg4kH0/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vJX8uI4wxZI/Ve2EtD8FgXI/AAAAAAAAqvk/kVn6iVg4kH0/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhKGAk5O6rc/Ve2Ez07daEI/AAAAAAAAqv0/ojJ8F8RvzuM/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rhKGAk5O6rc/Ve2Ez07daEI/AAAAAAAAqv0/ojJ8F8RvzuM/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good. That’s good,” Derrick replied, clearing his throat.
“How’s Mike?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s fine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Glad to hear it,” Derrick smiled again, hoping to crack
Victoria’s stony exterior. But Victoria folded her arms into her chest and
shifted her weight on her feet as she avoided his eyes. “So…today’s the day.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. It is.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you ok with this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I sorta have to be, right? It’s not like I can babysit you
for the rest of my life.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know, Victoria, but I also want to make sure you’re 100% ready for this. If there is even one doubt, you should leave me up
here. Only when you’re ready.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yib-NdR3R3Q/Ve2E1J_hmQI/AAAAAAAAqv8/qQU-TfFrljk/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yib-NdR3R3Q/Ve2E1J_hmQI/AAAAAAAAqv8/qQU-TfFrljk/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I just want this over,” she sighed. Grabbing a large key ring
from the hook outside the door, Victoria slowly approached Derrick. And after
one last look, she took a deep breath and unlocked the shackle on his right
wrist and then his left. Derrick stood upright, rubbing the bruises on his arms
and watching them quickly heal. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It was nothing.” She started away, but with his cat-like
reflexes, he reached out and closed his hand around her arm before she moved
too far. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m tired of this, Victoria. Can we at least make an effort
to talk like two people who, at one time, shared a bed?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would be the point of that, Derrick? I told you I
could never go back.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“But you also said you wanted to at least be friends.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I said I would <i>think</i>
about at least being friends. I have to be able to trust the people in my life,
Derrick, and you’re not one of them,” she replied, finally pulling away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GQwDCR5H3M/Ve2E0G3p-dI/AAAAAAAAqvw/e9IMgJNNo0Q/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7GQwDCR5H3M/Ve2E0G3p-dI/AAAAAAAAqvw/e9IMgJNNo0Q/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re right. I’m an asshole. Is that what you wanted to
hear?” Victoria continued moving forward and he charged in front of her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The look of displeasure curling her lips and the refusal to
give him eye contact wasn’t at all acceptable. Ducking his head every way that
she turned hers, he held her chin gently with his index finger and thumb,
forcing her to look at his steely, gray eyes. “In my life, I’ve been able to
depend on ONE person. Just one. In this world, there is but yourself to trust
and to always rely, Victoria. It’s a hard lesson to learn.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh so is this the part where I thank you for being SUCH an
outstanding teacher?” she asked, trying to sidestep him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_FAyJk-lfkY/Ve2E54WbNKI/AAAAAAAAqwI/vmiNu-XudYQ/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_FAyJk-lfkY/Ve2E54WbNKI/AAAAAAAAqwI/vmiNu-XudYQ/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9BZxmh3V3o/Ve2E8m6h9hI/AAAAAAAAqwY/9rVh1g9oG5c/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9BZxmh3V3o/Ve2E8m6h9hI/AAAAAAAAqwY/9rVh1g9oG5c/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He rolled his neck on his shoulder, straightened his back
and took two quick steps towards her. “I’ve been alive for a little longer than
you, Victoria. I’ve seen things you couldn’t possibly imagine and done things
I’d rather you didn’t. I’ve made mistakes, too many to count, and I’m pretty
sure I’ll make plenty more. But in those 400 plus years there is only one thing
I’ve ever been sure of; you.” Victoria sighed and dropped her eyes to her feet
as Derrick continued talking. “I came to you with impure intentions, I admit
that. I never meant for our relationship to become romantic or complicated
or…whatever this is between us now. I had a job to do. And when it became
obvious I wouldn’t be able to accomplish my goals without going deeper, I tried
to pull away.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OA7ZBqQachU/Ve2E72xms9I/AAAAAAAAqwQ/PuZ9LKYKeFc/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OA7ZBqQachU/Ve2E72xms9I/AAAAAAAAqwQ/PuZ9LKYKeFc/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTzDazcxf_w/Ve2E_1H6qOI/AAAAAAAAqwg/64-DnW0MfqA/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aTzDazcxf_w/Ve2E_1H6qOI/AAAAAAAAqwg/64-DnW0MfqA/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And it was at that point, or any of the hundred before,
that you could have come clean and I wouldn’t be standing here hurt, on the
verge of tears or shooting you or the millions of other thoughts going through
my head right now. You could have saved me from all of this pain, Derrick. But
you CHOSE to go deeper. You CHOSE to lie to me. You CHOSE to make me fall in
love with you. YOU chose to break my heart,” she nearly shouted as her voice began to
crack.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. I did. And now I choose to fix things. At the cost of
my life I choose to make things right between us, to earn back your trust. I’m
not asking you for anything you weren’t willing to give me before. This will
take time, I know that. I just need to know you’re willing to try. Please. Give
me the chance to fix us.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3wYJWytcnc/Ve2FB12XOfI/AAAAAAAAqwo/fxBcR06a3LE/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U3wYJWytcnc/Ve2FB12XOfI/AAAAAAAAqwo/fxBcR06a3LE/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know if I can,” she replied weakly, batting away
tears as they slipped down her face.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You can, Victoria, it’s one of the many things that makes
you so amazing. You have a big heart full of love and compassion and I am ready
to spend as much time as I need to on my hands and knees begging for your
forgiveness. I love you and I don’t want to lose you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do you still love me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, Victoria, answer that, please. Do you still love me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsGp8t1rCvE/Ve2FC_9_jMI/AAAAAAAAqww/5RRXJe3RY3g/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NsGp8t1rCvE/Ve2FC_9_jMI/AAAAAAAAqww/5RRXJe3RY3g/s640/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes,” she sighed breathlessly and briskly wiped away more
tears. “More than words can say.” With his hands hooked around Victoria’s
waist, Derrick pulled her closer to him. Quickly tilting her head back, he
brought his lips closer to hers, watching her eyes until the very last second. Their
lips met with an explosion of heat. The way he skillfully maneuvered them against
hers with so much tenderness and wanton need made her knees weak. Derrick’s
teeth raked her bottom lip until she sighed with pleasure and he seized the
opportunity to run his tongue along hers. <b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BUs8_6qzKBM/Ve2FEw6fU_I/AAAAAAAAqw8/IjokVJh4lLw/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BUs8_6qzKBM/Ve2FEw6fU_I/AAAAAAAAqw8/IjokVJh4lLw/s640/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
With one hand on his shoulder and the other fumbling
chaotically through his hair, she rested herself against his body, demanding
more contact. Derrick lifted her leg over his hip and pressed himself deeper.
He felt Victoria grinding herself against his growing erection and growled
against her mouth. He pushed her against the door, sucking on her tongue as he
licked at her bottom lip while his hands slipped up her side, brushing with
bare skin beneath the shirt that made her tremble against him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQSvFw08RQs/Ve2FFsfblHI/AAAAAAAAqw4/RWKluSwUtbI/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eQSvFw08RQs/Ve2FFsfblHI/AAAAAAAAqw4/RWKluSwUtbI/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love you,” she whispered against his cheek as he speckled
her neck with kisses. “But, Derrick…” He looked up at her and smiled as he felt
her hand against his cheek. “We still have a ways to go.” She gently caressed
his face and spoke softly, hoping her words met him with the impact she needed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know, Victoria. I know we do.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/11/58-whered-wendigo-pt-2.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-15968629508919599422015-09-27T18:37:00.001-04:002022-03-11T15:08:19.199-05:0056: A Stroke of Luck – Pt. 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iWTewd0TPE/Ve2JSk2tIKI/AAAAAAAAqxQ/SKzZXWa1LZs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5iWTewd0TPE/Ve2JSk2tIKI/AAAAAAAAqxQ/SKzZXWa1LZs/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quBnJkDtyJA/Ve2JR2t_G-I/AAAAAAAAqxM/WD3HYt06m1E/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-quBnJkDtyJA/Ve2JR2t_G-I/AAAAAAAAqxM/WD3HYt06m1E/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“What’s he doing here?” Victoria asked, walking into Moonlight
and finding Derrick leaning against the doorway.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I called him,” Mike replied as she continued staring
Derrick down. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why the hell would you do that?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because you’re going after this fawn creature and, not sure
if you’ve noticed, I’m in no position to provide back up. I wasn’t about to let
you go out there alone!” he responded, rolling his chair a little closer to
where Derrick stood. “You don’t look so well.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eq-ilH3-7L4/Ve2JSo62yWI/AAAAAAAAqxU/xBCfAyCCPw0/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eq-ilH3-7L4/Ve2JSo62yWI/AAAAAAAAqxU/xBCfAyCCPw0/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-trr_gNFgbwo/Ve2JcGgCMTI/AAAAAAAAqxk/AMbnAAwB7ms/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-trr_gNFgbwo/Ve2JcGgCMTI/AAAAAAAAqxk/AMbnAAwB7ms/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s not,” Victoria answered before Derrick could open his
mouth. She noticed his appearance hadn’t changed. His eyes were still as red as
fire and the veins beside them very prominent and throbbing. “And I don’t want
him here. We don’t need his help.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick grinned, stepping more into the room with the two
detectives and leaned over into Mike’s face, giving him a better view.
“Victoria has never told you about me, has she?” he asked, already knowing the
answer to the question. “I’m not sure if it was her way of protecting me or her
fear of what I might do…to you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike glanced up at Victoria and she took a breath. Following
his gaze, the smile on Derrick’s face widened and he took one step back. “What
are you?” Mike asked, his voice not faltering as he looked Derrick in his scarlet
eyes.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll give you a hint,” he replied, opening his mouth wider,
“These teeth aren’t just for opening bottles.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5JyXr5PLURw/Ve2Jed_ihnI/AAAAAAAAqxs/40r4kdwcjJk/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5JyXr5PLURw/Ve2Jed_ihnI/AAAAAAAAqxs/40r4kdwcjJk/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vampire? Victoria, he’s a vampire?” Mike asked, wheeling
himself away from the couple. “Are you fucking kidding me? Vik, how could you
not tell me that?” he demanded, angrily glaring in her direction.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It wasn’t her secret to tell,” Derrick responded for her.
“Besides, it’s more fun watching humans realize for the first time they’re
nothing more than meals on wheels.” Derrick licked his lips and chuckled,
noting the fearful expression on Mike’s face.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Relax, Mike, he can’t hurt you, I’ve made sure of that,”
Victoria stated confidently, moving between the two men. Derrick glared at her
and slowly blinked his eyes before addressing him again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I was only teasing, Mike. I have no interest in harming you…either
of you.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYq0OyIxXBo/Ve2JmLeSluI/AAAAAAAAqx8/TA80byG0I48/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zYq0OyIxXBo/Ve2JmLeSluI/AAAAAAAAqx8/TA80byG0I48/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfMCpFs1JWo/Ve2JqYrU8II/AAAAAAAAqyM/rK_7sQ-leIo/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfMCpFs1JWo/Ve2JqYrU8II/AAAAAAAAqyM/rK_7sQ-leIo/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike swallowed hard and pushed a map towards Victoria, never
taking his eyes off the vampire. “I’ve narrowed down the locations where the
fawn was last seen,” he spoke, finally looking at her as she moved closer. “I
guess it shouldn’t surprise you that they’re heavily wooded areas, one of which
is deep in the mountains. I don’t know what you’re going to find out there, but
I’d advise you to be careful,” he remarked, his eyes moving to Derrick again.
“Even more than usual.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Mike. I’ll stay in contact with you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONLh1xNV_kg/Ve2Jn7leJfI/AAAAAAAAqyE/pS9lXoS4I4E/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ONLh1xNV_kg/Ve2Jn7leJfI/AAAAAAAAqyE/pS9lXoS4I4E/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXzXGgBagyI/Ve2JvFti7pI/AAAAAAAAqyY/nXKRXMc30Wo/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cXzXGgBagyI/Ve2JvFti7pI/AAAAAAAAqyY/nXKRXMc30Wo/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So who’s in control right now?” Victoria asked after piling
her belongings into the trunk of her jeep.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In control?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Who am I talking to, Derrick, the demon or the man?” she
asked, clarifying her question. In return she received a simple smile and nod
before he sauntered away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6kwA5IEOc0c/Ve2JudDvXfI/AAAAAAAAqyU/7zQlWrEtIDs/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6kwA5IEOc0c/Ve2JudDvXfI/AAAAAAAAqyU/7zQlWrEtIDs/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oBPSI9JJIek/Ve2J0KthJ1I/AAAAAAAAqyk/m7Vc1nTLblM/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oBPSI9JJIek/Ve2J0KthJ1I/AAAAAAAAqyk/m7Vc1nTLblM/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q56owo38RsM/Ve2J2ctTjTI/AAAAAAAAqys/bv0njaA76fM/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q56owo38RsM/Ve2J2ctTjTI/AAAAAAAAqys/bv0njaA76fM/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The drive to the woods was done in silence. Derrick had
taken Victoria’s keys and she sat as close to her door as possible. Stealing a
quick glance, she noticed how cold and angry his face appeared. Derrick had a strangle
grip on the steering wheel. Victoria realized it was his way of
maintaining some ounce of restraint. They pulled into a niche just beside a
cliff and Derrick parked the jeep.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1h4RFlnE34/Ve2J4esjFFI/AAAAAAAAqy0/fWkJBn85Ifc/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X1h4RFlnE34/Ve2J4esjFFI/AAAAAAAAqy0/fWkJBn85Ifc/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8EpIF3mQB8Q/Ve2J7cq47sI/AAAAAAAAqy8/glkILqGMBPc/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8EpIF3mQB8Q/Ve2J7cq47sI/AAAAAAAAqy8/glkILqGMBPc/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you ready, Victoria?” Derrick waited beside the door
until she slid out of the passenger side. Grabbing her bag from the trunk, she
ignored his offer to carry it and flung it over her
shoulder instead. Derrick took a step forward and she met it with one
backwards. “I’m not going to hurt you,” he stated, his voice low and rumbling.
He moved again towards her and Victoria took another step away from him.
Derrick smirked, the curl of his lip revealing his sharp fangs. Before she
could blink, he was against her, pinning her to the jeep. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nutyjxDKDek/Ve2J-YA6vcI/AAAAAAAAqzE/WB1iqUmEURE/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nutyjxDKDek/Ve2J-YA6vcI/AAAAAAAAqzE/WB1iqUmEURE/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWywIUZkZKk/Ve2KBZ6XihI/AAAAAAAAqzM/433cSoS7VpE/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XWywIUZkZKk/Ve2KBZ6XihI/AAAAAAAAqzM/433cSoS7VpE/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria turned her head away, feeling his cold hands caress
her face. She dared not look at him and see the demon that had made its
permanent, unwelcomed stay on the surface. “Go ahead!” she snapped, waiting to
feel his teeth rip open her throat. Instead, Derrick’s soft lips trailed kisses
down her neck. Stopping just at her collarbone, he turned her to look at
him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I told you I am not going to hurt you, Victoria,” he
whispered against her lips. Watching her eyes for any change, he dipped his
head to kiss her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You mean again,” Victoria replied before their mouths
connected and pulled away. He sighed and started towards her, falling into the
same dance again as she moved away. “Keep your distance, Derrick. That’s what
you wanted after all, right?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I said a lot of things I didn’t mean.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5H_-Wg5h9k/Ve2KDw6ZAoI/AAAAAAAAqzU/FK2y1FsOqrk/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x5H_-Wg5h9k/Ve2KDw6ZAoI/AAAAAAAAqzU/FK2y1FsOqrk/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgYyEeC4EnY/Ve2KHmO_RJI/AAAAAAAAqzc/h7Qhjjx1930/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mgYyEeC4EnY/Ve2KHmO_RJI/AAAAAAAAqzc/h7Qhjjx1930/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. You meant them. And I get it now. I’m your mission, not
your lover or your friend. Your mission,” Victoria nearly shouted as her anger
got the better of her. “You were playing me from the start. Fooling me to
believe you gave a shit about me or that you really wanted to help. Every word
that ever came out of your mouth was a lie, Derrick. And I get that now. So
please, drop the fucking pretense. I don’t need to be coddled.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And please, I’m not one of your thralls, Derrick. You can’t
just give me a look and expect me to swoon. Stop trying to get your way and
keep your lips to yourself. You dumped me, remember?” she turned and started up
the mountain path mapped out by Mike and Derrick hastily trudged after her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YpJ7Y9HJd9Q/Ve2KLwTLlgI/AAAAAAAAqzk/BHVkMyAVEGo/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YpJ7Y9HJd9Q/Ve2KLwTLlgI/AAAAAAAAqzk/BHVkMyAVEGo/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9V6KW9IBjo/Ve2KNV22GkI/AAAAAAAAqzs/59mWkC7r-Us/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9V6KW9IBjo/Ve2KNV22GkI/AAAAAAAAqzs/59mWkC7r-Us/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You don’t understand,” he shouted to her back as she
angrily stomped up the muddy foothill. “I never meant for any of this to
happen.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Any of what, Derrick? Because from where I’m standing, ALL of this could have been avoided if you had just been honest with me from the
start! So what exactly caught you by surprise?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“My feelings for you,” he replied, stopping in his tracks
and hoping she would have the courtesy to turn around. When it became obvious
she’d rather gain as much distance from him as possible, he quickly stepped in
front of her, stopping her cold. “Yes, Victoria, you and I…” he started and
paused. Searching her eyes as he thought carefully over his next words. “It
started as one thing but it became something else entirely. I never wanted
this.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nQJ-fO4bypI/Ve2KReRLcRI/AAAAAAAAqz0/kHlutVY3pnk/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nQJ-fO4bypI/Ve2KReRLcRI/AAAAAAAAqz0/kHlutVY3pnk/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cS5cd8PE0x4/Ve2KVBAaXYI/AAAAAAAAqz8/EYbn5NYVjQQ/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cS5cd8PE0x4/Ve2KVBAaXYI/AAAAAAAAqz8/EYbn5NYVjQQ/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. That’s where you’re wrong. <i>I</i> never wanted this. I begged you to let us just be friends but you
kept pushing and you kept teasing until I ended up in your bed. And now we’re
here and there is no going back to the way things were. Not now, not ever.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ever?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can’t trust you, Derrick! Do you know how important that
is for me? I have always had my family to lean on. And one day, you pop into my
life telling me that everything I’d ever known was a lie and turns out, it was.
My grandmother is a witch, my mother is in denial, there are monsters all
around me and no one has shown me the decency of being 100% honest about any of
it. I thought you above anyone would be truthful with me. You showed me who I
really was, told me you loved me and made a vow to always protect me. But…that
was just another lie. Turns out, people only use the word ‘love’ as a preface
to be deceitful. You, my mother and my grandmother. And you wonder why I’m so
cynical.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xjRnAWPJztE/Ve2Ka6I6VOI/AAAAAAAAq0M/cG9Kqi-NIYg/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xjRnAWPJztE/Ve2Ka6I6VOI/AAAAAAAAq0M/cG9Kqi-NIYg/s640/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. We’re not doing this right now,” she hissed, pushing
him away again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then when? I’ve been calling you for days. You won’t bother
answering your phone. When I come by your place, I can’t get in and at work,
you look through me as if I’m not even standing there. What do I have to do to
make you hear me out?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nothing. When I was willing to listen I got rewarded with
dishonesty. And now that I’ve turned a deaf ear, all of a sudden you’re a
chatty Cathy. I don’t need anything from you, Derrick. I don’t want to hear
anything you have to say. I’m done. Don’t you get that? I’m done. Anything I
need informational wise I get from Cole.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole? You would choose him over me, Victoria? Why?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKsM-plLUC8/Ve2KckBeYxI/AAAAAAAAq0U/adnVfsJyPpg/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jKsM-plLUC8/Ve2KckBeYxI/AAAAAAAAq0U/adnVfsJyPpg/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because, Derrick, you made it perfectly clear you wanted
nothing to do with me anymore and that left me very few options. He’s one of
the only people who knows what I am other than Mike and is willing to help me
without a thousand lies. Where else was I supposed to turn?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“NOT TO HIM!” She watched as he gritted his teeth and
clenched his fists tightly, trying his best to keep from imploding. But despite
his best attempt the effort failed. “I told you no matter where you and I stood
that I would be there for you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ohh…well doesn’t that sound familiar?” she asked, throwing
her hands on her hips. “You have the right to help me, but when it’s you in
need I’m not allowed to, is that it?” </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A_b6dmIzPkM/Ve2KlkfoCII/AAAAAAAAq0s/KkOW5Gd4-9o/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A_b6dmIzPkM/Ve2KlkfoCII/AAAAAAAAq0s/KkOW5Gd4-9o/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2K6ZDipmZ7I/Ve2KsEjnjLI/AAAAAAAAq00/JbH86MGz0XU/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2K6ZDipmZ7I/Ve2KsEjnjLI/AAAAAAAAq00/JbH86MGz0XU/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No! Not when it’ll get you hurt! And Cole? You know my
issues with him!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re right, I do; which is exactly why I asked for his
help.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You…do you think that’s smart? Pissing me off when I’m
extremely unstable?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, whatever.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Whatever? Victoria, you really don’t know what inciting a
bloodthirsty killer could do.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you don’t know what a woman scorned could do either!”
she countered and started off again through the trees.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What is that supposed to mean?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGBGrlwyc2M/Ve2Kiumf2EI/AAAAAAAAq0c/IaeaJlZABVc/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uGBGrlwyc2M/Ve2Kiumf2EI/AAAAAAAAq0c/IaeaJlZABVc/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YeEd6AL_hos/Ve2KjwtIe0I/AAAAAAAAq0g/SKgYNg87Gvw/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YeEd6AL_hos/Ve2KjwtIe0I/AAAAAAAAq0g/SKgYNg87Gvw/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I took a leap of faith with you,” she whispered with her
back still facing him. “You have no idea how much what you did hurt me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I do, Victoria, trust me. I…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trust you?” she shouted, finally turning to face him.
“That’s what I did, Derrick! I trusted you! I trusted you enough to let you in.
I trusted you when you told me you’d never hurt me. I trusted you when you said
you wouldn’t break my heart! How much more trust do you think I have? You
waited until I told you I loved you before doing this, Derrick! Do you know how
hard it was for me to say those words?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0KCj-2TJ38/Ve2KtQTCWAI/AAAAAAAAq08/-93yPbTP7N0/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-r0KCj-2TJ38/Ve2KtQTCWAI/AAAAAAAAq08/-93yPbTP7N0/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q14Z8xEkNY/Ve2KuRMmH0I/AAAAAAAAq1A/IYCrpQKs3iY/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3Q14Z8xEkNY/Ve2KuRMmH0I/AAAAAAAAq1A/IYCrpQKs3iY/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know, Victoria, I know that. Fuck!” he shouted and kicked
the tree beside him. Dried leaves fell aimlessly around him. Victoria rubbed
her shoulders as brisk winds blew in around them. “I just didn’t want you to
get hurt. The night that I attacked you…I saw it happening. As if I wasn’t the
one with his hands around your throat. It was someone else and I was incapable
of stopping him. I wasn’t in control then, Victoria, and I couldn’t let that
happen again. Please, understand. Seeing that fear in your eyes when you looked
at me, knowing it was BECAUSE of me. It was worse than anything I’ve ever felt
before in my life!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He growled. The sound rattled against a grouping of nearby
trees and a flock of birds took flight. “Derrick,” Victoria started, waiting
for him to face her. “I admit, I was afraid at first when faced with the
darkness inside you. But that didn’t change the way I felt about you. I still
wanted to help; I needed to see you through it. If we’re supposed to be in this
together, you can’t shut me out when something bad happens. You can’t just up
and run and leave me with an empty feeling because you think I can’t handle it.
I’m here for you, Derrick. I told you that. It’s part of being in love.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1n15FsEllg/Ve2K0_iF4FI/AAAAAAAAq1M/4YsivZBOYrA/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r1n15FsEllg/Ve2K0_iF4FI/AAAAAAAAq1M/4YsivZBOYrA/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMyAJdwf4IA/Ve2K2A9xp3I/AAAAAAAAq1Q/TisolO8qjY0/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xMyAJdwf4IA/Ve2K2A9xp3I/AAAAAAAAq1Q/TisolO8qjY0/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And do you?” he asked, stepping closer towards her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do I what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do you still love me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It doesn’t matter.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It does matter, Victoria. It’s all that matters.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ve come to realize something,” she replied, standing
toe-to-toe with him. She watched as his eyes constantly flickered between steel
gray and blood red. “No matter how angry you get. No matter how hungry you
become. No matter how much you threaten. You. Can’t. Hurt. Me,” Victoria
grinned, ignoring the question at hand. “I’m wearing your promise and I’ve
tried seven ways to Sunday to get it off; it’s not budging. Meaning, if I
die, you die. I can incite your wrath all day long and you can’t do a damn
thing about it.” Victoria glanced behind Derrick and back into his eyes without
blinking. “Now. I came out here to work. If you’re going to help, fine. But if
not, get out of my way.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dKELmNV0eeY/Ve2K4_gbitI/AAAAAAAAq1c/Zb1Yg9kSl-k/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dKELmNV0eeY/Ve2K4_gbitI/AAAAAAAAq1c/Zb1Yg9kSl-k/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-imWEvXtpCmw/Ve2LBY15N2I/AAAAAAAAq1k/SjPEOgH0MDA/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-imWEvXtpCmw/Ve2LBY15N2I/AAAAAAAAq1k/SjPEOgH0MDA/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The area was dense with large trees and shrubbery. There was
a stillness about the place that made the hairs on the back of her neck stand
up. Kneeling at the head of the trail, Victoria noticed hoof prints in the mud
leading towards the mouth of a large cave. She opened the satchel on her back
and retrieved her grimoire to confirm the presence of Fawnling. Sure enough, the prints were made by her chief
suspect. “Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2WUULxtU-0/Ve2LB5NbghI/AAAAAAAAq1o/EYcMI-KKjZQ/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O2WUULxtU-0/Ve2LB5NbghI/AAAAAAAAq1o/EYcMI-KKjZQ/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vJy0qm4IPI/Ve2LDhQ9VII/AAAAAAAAq10/gnwjHYnfaEk/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vJy0qm4IPI/Ve2LDhQ9VII/AAAAAAAAq10/gnwjHYnfaEk/s640/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I said not now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” Suddenly she heard the growling of a large animal and
the cracking of a dry limb behind her and instantly froze.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t move…” Derrick whispered, watching the creature edge
closer towards her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He stilled her with a motion of his hand as his eyes
remained on the beast behind her. “It’s ok, Baby. When I say go, move as fast as you can towards
me, ok?” She nodded her head and held her breath. “Wait for it…GO!”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DUD75BBc1-8/Ve2LNEIvNyI/AAAAAAAAq18/MfVkUK9AGVg/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DUD75BBc1-8/Ve2LNEIvNyI/AAAAAAAAq18/MfVkUK9AGVg/s640/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria swiftly dove forward, skidding on dirt and gravel
and bouncing her head on a large boulder before coming to a stop. From her
position on the ground, she watched as Derrick charged full force towards the
large animal, claws bared and mouth locked in a perpetual snarl.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
What happened next was a blur of movement. In the blink of
an eye, the two men were engaged in combat, clawing and hitting each other,
while Victoria fell in and out of consciousness, transfixed in horror as the
situation dissolved into a ferocious battle.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JTPbDpk1Yno/Ve2LOBzh4lI/AAAAAAAAq2A/coERkBu3hK8/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JTPbDpk1Yno/Ve2LOBzh4lI/AAAAAAAAq2A/coERkBu3hK8/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1MZiEWdv5E/Ve2LPkZ1hTI/AAAAAAAAq2M/_qIWYerFc4U/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s1MZiEWdv5E/Ve2LPkZ1hTI/AAAAAAAAq2M/_qIWYerFc4U/s640/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was a terrifying sight. She’d bore witness to Derrick’s
temper before and even watched him kill; but this was different. This was
primal. Her heart was pounding, blood rushed through her body, making the pain in her body increase. Shaking her head, she
tried to clear the cobwebs but it only made the throbbing
worse. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Snarls filled the air as blood spilled on the ground around
the two. They appeared equally matched, exchanging one brutal blow after the
other. It was barbaric. The Fawnling made a grab for Derrick’s arm, but Derrick
whipped around and grabbed his attacker’s neck. The Fawnling fought to free
himself and regain his footing, but his struggling only tightened Derrick’s
choke-hold. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6tNFMW42SU/Ve2LWvhxuoI/AAAAAAAAq2U/lXlJ3w2sEmo/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k6tNFMW42SU/Ve2LWvhxuoI/AAAAAAAAq2U/lXlJ3w2sEmo/s640/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlVH8z72G84/Ve2LYwNWK1I/AAAAAAAAq2c/_3h6qpB7Rd0/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rlVH8z72G84/Ve2LYwNWK1I/AAAAAAAAq2c/_3h6qpB7Rd0/s640/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blood was freely streaming from their wounds. Their face
and clothing were smeared with dirt and mud. Around them, the trampled branches
and leaves were stained in their viscous fluid. And just before Victoria’s eyes
closed again, she watched as Derrick snapped the Fawnling’s neck and his body
slumped to the ground. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4ZP-fap4X0/Ve2LbJSKQ9I/AAAAAAAAq2k/zaNJ5XYA8Ws/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F4ZP-fap4X0/Ve2LbJSKQ9I/AAAAAAAAq2k/zaNJ5XYA8Ws/s640/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria? Victoria?” She groaned and fluttered her eyes as
she heard someone calling her name. Derrick was above her, shaking her lightly
until she was finally awake. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What happened?” she asked, groggy and still coming to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You hit your head when you jumped out of the way. Are you
alright?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Aside from the wicked headache I think so.” Derrick helped
her to her feet and she leaned back against the boulder while he assessed the
damage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sN48GXVHqks/Ve2Lh8QFQ6I/AAAAAAAAq2s/4JscyCUAhSM/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sN48GXVHqks/Ve2Lh8QFQ6I/AAAAAAAAq2s/4JscyCUAhSM/s640/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This is going to need stitches and you might have a
concussion. Are you alright to walk?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m fine,” she replied, slightly wobbling as she took a
step.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you sure?” Derrick asked, reaching out to level her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I said I’m fine.” Victoria looked around at the scene and
sighed. A puddle had formed and began congealing beneath the Fawnling’s corpse.
He was covered in scrapes, bruises and cuts. Derrick, on the other hand,
appeared unharmed. “Thank you.” He nodded and inched closer to where she stood.
“Were there any others?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I checked the cave but no one was inside. Your client
should be happy though.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Oh yeah? Why’s that?”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-49Xv0BiooQs/Ve2LlxylI5I/AAAAAAAAq20/tBogdmlL0hM/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-49Xv0BiooQs/Ve2LlxylI5I/AAAAAAAAq20/tBogdmlL0hM/s640/Screenshot-46.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“See for yourself.” Derrick led Victoria inside the large
cave entrance and towards the back. Inside a small alcove on the east facing
wall she found a mountain of gold coins and gems that the Fawnling had stolen.
Items that appeared on the list her client had provided had now been recovered.
Derrick was right. Aidan Byrne would be pleased. “Come on. We should hurry and
get this stuff moved before the others return.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“I thought you said there weren’t any more.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQqCx-9mfYI/Ve2Lozdgu7I/AAAAAAAAq3A/_6O3j2WMTJ4/s1600/Screenshot-47.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wQqCx-9mfYI/Ve2Lozdgu7I/AAAAAAAAq3A/_6O3j2WMTJ4/s640/Screenshot-47.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I did. But that doesn’t mean they won’t come looking for
their missing friend. And I’d like to not be around when that happens.” Derrick
paused and glanced over at Victoria with a frown. “Victoria?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Can we just…” she sighed and looked away from him. Derrick
and Victoria worked quickly to transfer the items to the trunk of her jeep. By
the time they were finished, the back end of her car was nearly touching the
ground.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It took them another twenty minutes before they were back on
the other side of town. Derrick handed the keys back to Victoria and split.
Meanwhile, Mike called up Aidan Byrne and waited in the lounge of their agency
for him to arrive.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aahpft-V9zA/Ve2LoowOShI/AAAAAAAAq28/CzDuvfX9lhQ/s1600/Screenshot-48.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Aahpft-V9zA/Ve2LoowOShI/AAAAAAAAq28/CzDuvfX9lhQ/s640/Screenshot-48.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6iME3pZVLU/Ve2clnSBnoI/AAAAAAAAq4I/lPk_8wPynH8/s1600/Screenshot-49.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x6iME3pZVLU/Ve2clnSBnoI/AAAAAAAAq4I/lPk_8wPynH8/s640/Screenshot-49.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s all there,” Victoria stated, watching their client
lick and inspect each individual item in front of him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Aye. Even pieces that don’t belong to me,” he replied,
still examining the gold. “You will see it returned to its proper owner?” He
asked, placing a single coin in her hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How…what? Um…sure, I’ll try. What’s this?” Victoria asked,
flipping the coin around a few times and examining the carvings on each face.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Your payment,” Aidan replied, grabbing the last satchel of
loot from the back of her jeep.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Um…I don’t think we can accept this?” she replied,
entranced by the sparkling currency in her palm. “Is it even spendable?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QBVmrhfDJo/Ve2c5sWCYfI/AAAAAAAAq4Y/OfAde6ZNImQ/s1600/Screenshot-50.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9QBVmrhfDJo/Ve2c5sWCYfI/AAAAAAAAq4Y/OfAde6ZNImQ/s640/Screenshot-50.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CdIDf1mN_20/Ve2c467fr5I/AAAAAAAAq4U/4mn8_y100QQ/s1600/Screenshot-57.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CdIDf1mN_20/Ve2c467fr5I/AAAAAAAAq4U/4mn8_y100QQ/s640/Screenshot-57.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trust me, this is a gift far greater than money. What you
hold in your hand is the very thing countries go to war for; power.” Aidan
smiled as he clicked his heels. Victoria took a step back as a bright burst of
light enshrouded the man and she watched as he instantly changed. Clad in green
with hair as red as fire, he became the exact image of St. Patrick’s Day she’d
grown accustomed to as a child. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The coin has a limited use. Be careful what you wish for.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How does it work?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You have magic, Detective Carson, you’ll be able to figure
that out.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? I can’t…”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thank you for all of your help, and remember what I said!”
Disappearing in a puff of smoke, Victoria found herself standing alone in the
dark parking lot of her agency. Again, she took interest in the tiny, gold
coin; turning over Aidan’s last message as she examined the Gaelic writing on
the one side.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H2LnhD0WG1A/Ve2Lt3M60ZI/AAAAAAAAq3M/c_8wesyV9yA/s1600/Screenshot-51.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H2LnhD0WG1A/Ve2Lt3M60ZI/AAAAAAAAq3M/c_8wesyV9yA/s640/Screenshot-51.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHdTdS5LlYU/Ve2LvF9arAI/AAAAAAAAq3Q/_lMzuVZkE4M/s1600/Screenshot-52.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PHdTdS5LlYU/Ve2LvF9arAI/AAAAAAAAq3Q/_lMzuVZkE4M/s640/Screenshot-52.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” She jumped at the sound of her name and turned
to face Derrick as he crept out of the shadows behind the building.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Back again? Let me guess, the pet shop ran out of puppies
for you to smother and you want to know if Hades is available for parties?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What, Derrick? What do you want now? Have you not hurt me
enough already?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“I need your help, Victoria.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhzdVAYFwXk/Ve2LyTOnf1I/AAAAAAAAq3c/XIitCXsZZXY/s1600/Screenshot-53.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhzdVAYFwXk/Ve2LyTOnf1I/AAAAAAAAq3c/XIitCXsZZXY/s640/Screenshot-53.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My help? Are you serious? Last time I offered to help you
threatened to let your club of monsters rip me apart and laughed about it. Now
you’re asking for my help? What? Does embracing your dark side make you bipolar
too?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria!” Derrick closed his eyes and tightly clenched his
fists at his side. “I need you. Please…” he paused, opening his eyes and
peering directly into hers. “I can’t do this without you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“How can you expect me to trust you after everything that’s
happened?”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EWUFqTfYg1w/Ve2L12F4h8I/AAAAAAAAq3k/_VXp0fbqR3c/s1600/Screenshot-54.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EWUFqTfYg1w/Ve2L12F4h8I/AAAAAAAAq3k/_VXp0fbqR3c/s640/Screenshot-54.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick paused a moment and took a solitary step forward. “I’m sorry, Victoria. The temptation was too compelling. I needed to give
him what he wanted in order to regain control. But I never meant to hurt you
the way that I did and if I could take it all back I would. Victoria, baby, I
would do anything to get things back to the way they used to be.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s not gone, Derrick. I can still see it in your eyes.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QipsjHYUdKQ/Ve2L3EQUp4I/AAAAAAAAq3s/Z9XwJM75TJE/s1600/Screenshot-55.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QipsjHYUdKQ/Ve2L3EQUp4I/AAAAAAAAq3s/Z9XwJM75TJE/s640/Screenshot-55.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. It’ll never go away. But I’ve taken back control over
the urges again. I just need your help to keep it that way.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria thought a moment. It wouldn’t be the first time she
was duped by the Monster of Manchester, and she was determined not to end up in
that situation again. But, on the other hand, she couldn’t turn her back on
Derrick either. If he was being truthful, she would regret letting the demon
win when she could have stopped it. “Fine,” she replied with a sigh. “I’ll help
you. But under one condition.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWyvbg0sSN8/Ve2L42eLTOI/AAAAAAAAq30/ZLFVP1XZ-AE/s1600/Screenshot-56.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AWyvbg0sSN8/Ve2L42eLTOI/AAAAAAAAq30/ZLFVP1XZ-AE/s640/Screenshot-56.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Name it. Anything and it’s yours.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I want the truth, the absolute truth about you and Rowan
and your <i>mission</i>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You…” Derrick backed up until he was leaning against the
wall and slowly turned his gaze. Nodding his head, he looked up at her uneasily
and folded his arms against his chest. “Ok. I’ll tell you…I’ll tell you
everything. But, you’re not going to like it.”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/10/57-whered-wendigo-pt-1.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-48763658420589240642015-07-26T23:38:00.004-04:002024-03-07T21:56:26.091-05:0055: A Stroke of Luck – Pt. 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FiLWCXtrotY/VbWac9E4pkI/AAAAAAAAqco/DEHETpCHDFo/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FiLWCXtrotY/VbWac9E4pkI/AAAAAAAAqco/DEHETpCHDFo/s640/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where is he?” Victoria growled as she stormed through the
doors of Rowan’s home. Ignoring the handful of vampires standing in the foyer
hissing at her she continued forward, she stopped just in the middle of the room.
“Derrick, get your ass out here now!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s as far as you go,” Marcel snapped, pushing the
detective away from the French doors leading to his master’s private chambers. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria looked down at his hands still grasping her arms
and slowly made eye contact with the muscular demon. “Get your fucking hands
off of me,” she rumbled, pushing against him.<br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
<o:p></o:p>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyoVVv4zRw8/VbWabxOHyGI/AAAAAAAAqck/aC9-a7zlhLQ/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyoVVv4zRw8/VbWabxOHyGI/AAAAAAAAqck/aC9-a7zlhLQ/s640/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’ll be all, Marcel,” Rowan’s English accent announced
his arrival from the back room as he dismissed his bodyguard. With a wave of
his hand, he cleared the foyer of the others before finally resting his eyes on
Victoria. “Well, well, well. This is indeed a surprise. After our last
encounter I didn’t expect to have the pleasure of seeing you again anytime soon,”
he smirked, rolling his tongue over his fangs as he gave her the once over. “You
look very lovely.”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal">“Bite me!”</div><div class="MsoNormal"><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Mmm, just say where, Luv,” Rowan smirked and let his eyes slowly
explore every inch of her body.</p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This isn’t a social call, Rowan,” she sighed in
frustration.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“As I’d gathered, Victoria,” he replied with just as much
bite and watched as she folded her arms into her chest. “Tell me, how may I be
of assistance?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1K5OyNZlz38/VbWabljdBnI/AAAAAAAAqcg/pZVux88dTgg/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1K5OyNZlz38/VbWabljdBnI/AAAAAAAAqcg/pZVux88dTgg/s640/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where’s Derrick?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you think I know this why? I am not Derrick’s keeper.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. You’re his Sire. And from what I know about your kind, you
have a telepathic connection to those you turn. I know you can find him or
already know his present location. Now, I asked nicely the first time, don’t
make me repeat myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw3oUuogR88/VbWaodAVC8I/AAAAAAAAqc4/FKyyDOEPrN4/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw3oUuogR88/VbWaodAVC8I/AAAAAAAAqc4/FKyyDOEPrN4/s640/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFm7rTYH3cs/VbWapvl0LxI/AAAAAAAAqdA/FwKQOTTv2Ms/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dFm7rTYH3cs/VbWapvl0LxI/AAAAAAAAqdA/FwKQOTTv2Ms/s640/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan’s smirk curled deeper and he took a step to the side.
For the first time, Victoria was able to get a clear view of the room behind
him and gasped on sight. Lying on the floor beside a couch were two bodies,
both female and both unconscious. Large pools of blood had formed around their
heads and even more splattered the walls and ceiling. Someone had ravaged those
poor women; draining them to the very brink and leaving them to die. “Go
ahead,” Rowan whispered in Victoria’s ear as she continued staring. “This is,
after all, what you came for.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qJbcbkV3G68/VbWarJ6XwiI/AAAAAAAAqdI/x3UnYwrJGBg/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qJbcbkV3G68/VbWarJ6XwiI/AAAAAAAAqdI/x3UnYwrJGBg/s640/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h-8norJLdE/VbWa2yicyVI/AAAAAAAAqdQ/h9lpG6NnCfY/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5h-8norJLdE/VbWa2yicyVI/AAAAAAAAqdQ/h9lpG6NnCfY/s640/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cautiously, Victoria moved forward, stepping over another
body just inside the door. The smell of iron was acrid and strong. Flies buzzed
around a few of the corpses and she quickly covered her mouth and nose to keep
from inhaling the stench of rotting flesh. From her view outside the door,
Victoria couldn’t fully take in the carnage. But now, standing in the very
center of the death room she could see there were more than four victims and
even more bloodshed than she thought. She turned and looked up at Rowan as he
shut the doors behind him. “What is this?” she demanded, clenching her fists at
her side.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uunVDHMkCBE/VbWa686LdVI/AAAAAAAAqdg/VAKGJoxWRt8/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uunVDHMkCBE/VbWa686LdVI/AAAAAAAAqdg/VAKGJoxWRt8/s640/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This? This is what happens when you suppress your true
nature. This is the result of a century’s long denial and deprival of what our
kind severely craves. I stood here and I watched as my protégé gorged himself
on one vein after the next, desperately seeking to slake his thirst.”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick did this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Who else?” Rowan chuckled loudly as Victoria shifted her weight on her feet. “What’s the matter? Isn’t this what you wanted?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What I wanted? How can you say that? I never wanted any
of…this! What did you do to him?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tx7UVJSRcI8/VbWa4TZnB4I/AAAAAAAAqdY/LVH2V9XyJXQ/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tx7UVJSRcI8/VbWa4TZnB4I/AAAAAAAAqdY/LVH2V9XyJXQ/s640/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“ME?!” he exclaimed, taking a solitary step in her
direction, tutting his tongue at her. “Sorry, my dear Victoria, try again. Derrick’s unraveling had
nothing to do with me. In fact, his descent into darkness is a direct
consequence of your love for him.” Victoria stared at the blonde confused and
angry. “I must admit I’ve dreadfully desired to see my old chum back in the
saddle once more. And now, I have you to thank for that. Had I known your blood
would make him remember who he was, I’d have slit you open for him to feed ages
ago.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My…my blood did this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan’s gaze narrowed on her while he determined whether or
not Victoria was being straightforward. Convinced she was telling the truth and
her bemusement was in fact genuine, he leaned against the wall beside the
fireplace and watched her take it all in. “You <i>really</i> have no idea what you are, do you? A babe in the woods and
surrounded on all sides by monsters from the deepest recesses of hell.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rjB6xayTPtw/VbWbGbss8DI/AAAAAAAAqdo/T9lwy7A3NWE/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rjB6xayTPtw/VbWbGbss8DI/AAAAAAAAqdo/T9lwy7A3NWE/s640/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where’s Derrick now?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan shrugged. “Someplace where he can get what he needs.
But, you shouldn’t concern yourself with that. If I were you, I’d worry more
about my own family and the words yet remaining unspoken.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A door opened behind her and in stepped several vampires.
All of them red-eyed and glaring at her as she struggled to keep herself
composed, glancing again around the room. <i>Derrick
did this</i>? If she could believe what Rowan was saying, he’d gone completely
off the reservation. And for the first time she found herself grateful for
having magic. The night Derrick attacked her could have gone much differently
if not for her family’s secret. Seeing the extremes of which he was capable was
truly frightening. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YVsY5iZhLQ/VbWbG3GQDHI/AAAAAAAAqds/Oeb59CO9WXc/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YVsY5iZhLQ/VbWbG3GQDHI/AAAAAAAAqds/Oeb59CO9WXc/s640/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There’s a change in the air, Victoria, for the first time
in nearly a century. You’ll want to decide very quickly which side you’re on.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She felt the room grow smaller as the group of demons
encircled her, moving at Rowan’s instruction. “VENTUS!” Without a second
thought she enchanted a spell sending the room into upheaval as a heavy gust of
wind exploded around her. “Volant into ad parietem!” Bodies flew fast and hard,
colliding with every fixed surface in the room and clearing her path towards
the door. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lwdXYxApQsI/VbWbINV4RKI/AAAAAAAAqd0/o8M1yXHXuy8/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lwdXYxApQsI/VbWbINV4RKI/AAAAAAAAqd0/o8M1yXHXuy8/s640/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You grow stronger every day,” Rowan groaned, clutching his
side as he felt his broken ribs begin to mend.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m a babe in the woods, remember? There are people I need
to protect myself from. And ensnares I need to fight against,” she replied,
motioning towards his arcane crystals which had failed to restrain her magic
this time. “Aperite.” The French doors beside Rowan opened and Victoria stepped
over him and calmly exited his home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsfCcMvNoCM/VbWkQYJCr1I/AAAAAAAAqiU/cBU6m_QyGI8/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RsfCcMvNoCM/VbWkQYJCr1I/AAAAAAAAqiU/cBU6m_QyGI8/s640/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey partner,” Mike smiled at the approaching Victoria. “I
was beginning to think I was working alone today.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry about that,” she replied, returning the grin
while she handed him his favorite dark roast from Starbucks. “I had something I
needed to take care of. I left you a message.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike glanced at the blinking red light on the house phone on
the corner of his desk and rubbed the back of his neck with a light chuckle.
“So you did. But you know better than anyone I never could operate those
things. Hell I don’t even think I set up the voicemail!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vu401_kxpb4/VbWbRk7ZC1I/AAAAAAAAqeA/zxek8f2yILw/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Vu401_kxpb4/VbWbRk7ZC1I/AAAAAAAAqeA/zxek8f2yILw/s640/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_TgGoHXFjc/VbWbVL8xlFI/AAAAAAAAqeQ/qg_PlKr-HwA/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_TgGoHXFjc/VbWbVL8xlFI/AAAAAAAAqeQ/qg_PlKr-HwA/s640/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You didn’t so I did it for you using your cell phone’s
recording. We can’t have potential clients calling and unable to reach one of
us, Mikey.” Victoria made her way over to her desk, placing her bag behind her
chair and her Frappuccino beside her keyboard. “So. What’s on the agenda
today?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Um…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LwqvUHfpOhU/VbWbeWda0bI/AAAAAAAAqeY/N6WYsKLqPS4/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LwqvUHfpOhU/VbWbeWda0bI/AAAAAAAAqeY/N6WYsKLqPS4/s640/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Me!” Both detectives turned their attention towards the
door and the person who had interrupted their train of thought. “Is this what
you two have been doing this whole time? Sitting around sipping cappuccinos
while my life and the lives of my family hangs in the balance?” Aidan Byrne
stepped into the middle of the room, looking back and forth between them. “One
day. You have ONE day to get this done or else, I’m toast.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I assure you, Mr. Byrne, my partner and I have been working
around the clock on your case. You gave us three days and in that time, we
believe we have narrowed down a suspect given the impractical description you
provided,” Mike replied in his most calming tone.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It would help us tremendously if you were able to deny or
confirm our suspicions,” Victoria added, standing and moving towards him with
her grimoire clutched in her hand. “Is this the person that attacked you?” she
asked, showing him the image of the Fawnling.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VDqwaQRN-5k/VbWbfTO0QSI/AAAAAAAAqeg/ebbNoheaz88/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VDqwaQRN-5k/VbWbfTO0QSI/AAAAAAAAqeg/ebbNoheaz88/s640/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes! That’s him! That’s the creature that stole my
property,” Aidan replied excitedly. “Have you located him?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We’ve hit on a few possible locations he could be hiding.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s great! When can I expect delivery?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“My partner is making plans to hunt this <i>Fawnling</i> down as soon as possible. We
should have him and/or your properties in our possession by midday tomorrow,”
Mike answered, glancing at Victoria before resuming eye contact with the
client.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Great! I’ll let my family know they should start packing
then. Thanks again for your help. I’ll await your phone call.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4INs2YhkUU8/VbWbfTrmoOI/AAAAAAAAqec/lLF_QbUVheU/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4INs2YhkUU8/VbWbfTrmoOI/AAAAAAAAqec/lLF_QbUVheU/s640/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since Mike had gone home, it left the place quiet. A little
too quiet. The quiet in some ways was comforting. It gave her a moment’s rest
from the crazy day she’d been having. But in other ways, the quiet was troubling.
The quiet pronounced the noticeably missing sound of Derrick’s voice and it
left her too much time to think. “Fuck it.” Grabbing her keys, Victoria turned
on the alarm, shut off the lights and locked the door. If Derrick wasn’t coming
to her, she was going to him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dot5f9hPt2E/VbWbpCxW6BI/AAAAAAAAqew/iADmxdHs3C8/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dot5f9hPt2E/VbWbpCxW6BI/AAAAAAAAqew/iADmxdHs3C8/s640/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Getting in had been relatively easy. She sat for a moment
and watched a few people enter first and simply mimicked what they did. Gradually,
Victoria made her way towards the backroom, avoiding the blood-craved stares of
several vampires as she did. It was times like these she was happy to have her
specially designed bullets. Although from the looks of tonight’s crowd, they
might prove useless. <i>Just breathe</i>.
“Perry,” she smiled as she safely made it to the entrance leading to the VIP
lounge. “I’m looking for Derrick, is he in?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dul8AycBvaQ/VbWbp1KOBSI/AAAAAAAAqe0/F5HQSYDi9Go/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Dul8AycBvaQ/VbWbp1KOBSI/AAAAAAAAqe0/F5HQSYDi9Go/s640/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He is. However, I’m afraid I can’t let you back there, Miss
Victoria.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Why not? I’ve been back there before.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Accompanied and supervised,” he replied glancing around the
room before meeting her gaze once more. “I’m afraid that is not the case now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know but—I need to speak with Derrick, Perry, it’s
important.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“All well and good, Miss Victoria, but as I’ve stated, you
cannot go back there. Have you tried calling?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are you serious?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwmkkOwfkUU/VbWbqe23_8I/AAAAAAAAqe4/X8VS4MZ-Wh0/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bwmkkOwfkUU/VbWbqe23_8I/AAAAAAAAqe4/X8VS4MZ-Wh0/s640/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t joke, Miss Victoria, it’s not in my job
description.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“WAIT YOUR FUCKING TURN!” She heard someone shout over her
shoulder. The screaming quickly caught Perry’s attention as a couple of Dante’s
patrons began a shoving match which was promptly turning into a brawl.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excuse me a moment,” he sighed and hurried towards the
action. She waited until his attention was completely occupied before quietly
slipping behind the red ropes and rushing to the back.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V5sjaMDY5Cs/VbWbwAK1ldI/AAAAAAAAqfI/W5VH6VV0jdI/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V5sjaMDY5Cs/VbWbwAK1ldI/AAAAAAAAqfI/W5VH6VV0jdI/s640/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dy_vfaNA1io/VbWbz9zCBkI/AAAAAAAAqfU/BKd9wYbI7Ik/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dy_vfaNA1io/VbWbz9zCBkI/AAAAAAAAqfU/BKd9wYbI7Ik/s640/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egu8VGChOK0/VbWbzyOrfmI/AAAAAAAAqfQ/XzXa5pVPn8o/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-egu8VGChOK0/VbWbzyOrfmI/AAAAAAAAqfQ/XzXa5pVPn8o/s640/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dwBSUAgoN4k/VbWb-VI9lII/AAAAAAAAqfw/o3jsHWZy280/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dwBSUAgoN4k/VbWb-VI9lII/AAAAAAAAqfw/o3jsHWZy280/s640/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Entering the lounge, Victoria soon found herself immersed in
a shockingly erotic display. The scene appeared cut from some late night porno and
she couldn’t help but gawk at the multitude of Dante’s clientele filtered
around the room. Derrick wasn’t joking when he said he catered to a more
cultivated crowd, and now Victoria was seeing behind the curtains.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFNYcBrLKtA/VbWb9fR10KI/AAAAAAAAqfo/QqDIfkPZz-I/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LFNYcBrLKtA/VbWb9fR10KI/AAAAAAAAqfo/QqDIfkPZz-I/s640/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stepping around a vampire couple sharing veins on the couch
beside the door, she continued scanning the room in search of a familiar face.
Finally, she spotted him seated in one of the private booths near the back, but
he wasn’t alone. Hurrying forward, she tried her best to ignore the many sexual
exhibitions, finding it difficult as each screech of orgasmic pleasure rumbled
throughout the room. Looking up, Derrick’s eyes instantly fixed on hers,
locking her in place beside a leather-clad couple taking turns whipping one
another.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A cold chill swept over her as he continued holding her
captive; like prey trapped in the jaws of a predator. The woman on his left
whispered something in his ear that turned his gaze towards her finally releasing
Victoria from his spell. And she continued watching as the second woman beside him retrieved
what she could only assume to be a glass of blood from the table and hand it to
him. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LDf1PlayDM/VbWb_qEgOJI/AAAAAAAAqf0/2FwWaKCVXpE/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0LDf1PlayDM/VbWb_qEgOJI/AAAAAAAAqf0/2FwWaKCVXpE/s640/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But after he took a sip of the dark red liquid and turned to
the woman for a little kiss, she forced her eyes away and took a breath. Anger
replaced shock and she moved forward in a few swift steps. “Having fun?” she
asked, allowing her temper to get the better of her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I was,” he replied without looking up. “What do you want?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“To talk.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How’d you get in here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GpPjWWt8RFo/VbWcFK0cULI/AAAAAAAAqgA/kRocneBTPlE/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GpPjWWt8RFo/VbWcFK0cULI/AAAAAAAAqgA/kRocneBTPlE/s640/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I remembered the secret handshake,” Victoria replied
sarcastically, crossing her arms into her chest. Ignoring her, he leaned over
and whispered something in the ear of the woman to his right, making her laugh.
Victoria yanked his shoulder, pulling him away from the eager, half-dressed,
blonde blood bank and watched as the drink in his hand spilled all over her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--sB_oD-n9Kw/VbWcHYYq7MI/AAAAAAAAqgI/1oZNMDMU6qw/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--sB_oD-n9Kw/VbWcHYYq7MI/AAAAAAAAqgI/1oZNMDMU6qw/s640/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0jAiFpjmufc/VbWcIfJa9sI/AAAAAAAAqgM/kNxFIhkMSJo/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0jAiFpjmufc/VbWcIfJa9sI/AAAAAAAAqgM/kNxFIhkMSJo/s640/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick growled and instantly looked up as he snatched his
arm from Victoria’s grasp and stood. Motioning with his head, she started for
one of the rooms just right of a showcase booth; more exhibitionists. She
entered first, pacing the small space between a bed and hutch containing all
manners of sex toys as he shut the door. Noticing her eyeing the ensemble of
dildos, whips and gags he smirked and threw his arm around an inflatable doll
before addressing her. “What can I say? I aim to please.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria bit her cheek to neutralize her reaction to his
quip and took a step back. “So I guess asking if you’re feeling better than you
were the other night is moot.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Actually, I feel great and you didn’t have to come by for that; you could have called.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvQqNUEApkk/VbWcNTOBY4I/AAAAAAAAqgY/IihlzOf6_kI/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FvQqNUEApkk/VbWcNTOBY4I/AAAAAAAAqgY/IihlzOf6_kI/s640/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7x3ZQWzJOA/VbWcQkMvlhI/AAAAAAAAqgg/DVW_9woy934/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7x3ZQWzJOA/VbWcQkMvlhI/AAAAAAAAqgg/DVW_9woy934/s640/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You weren’t answering.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Which tells you what? Look I’m not in the mood for a pity
party or any of that self-loathing I smell fanning off of you like flies over
shit. Blame yourself, blame Rowan, hell blame the universe for all I care. Just
do it someplace else. Everything is fine here and I have a party to get back
to. Thanks for stopping by.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So that’s it then? You’re really just gonna walk away? Turn
your back on your promises and what? Resume a lifetime of loneliness and
self-gratifying deeds?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It hasn’t failed me yet.” The door opened behind him,
redirecting Victoria’s attention momentarily. “Occupied,” Derrick tossed over
his shoulder without turning around. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QaR5_KqMnGk/VbWcRalfN-I/AAAAAAAAqgk/FuUGLqk_fK0/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QaR5_KqMnGk/VbWcRalfN-I/AAAAAAAAqgk/FuUGLqk_fK0/s640/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can see that,” a dark haired vampire replied with a
slight rasp to his voice. He had bright blue eyes and was dressed in a dark
gray, pen-striped suit with a ginger pocket square and matching shirt. He
wolf-whistled as he eyed Victoria up and down and took a step forward. “Let me
know when you’re done with that one. I’d love to have a taste.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You have 5 seconds to walk away.” Again Derrick spoke
without ever turning to face the intruder. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Chill, alright? It was meant as a compliment,” blue eyes
replied, trying his best to sound calm. Derrick’s hands balled into fists at
his side and Victoria watched as his eyes burned with unmitigated rage. And
before she had the chance to blink, Derrick had acted. Snatching the man inside
the room, he violently threw him against the wall. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H3IOj5DQc1A/VbWcV2SprUI/AAAAAAAAqgw/ne7sMV_sEMw/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H3IOj5DQc1A/VbWcV2SprUI/AAAAAAAAqgw/ne7sMV_sEMw/s640/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Time’s up.” A sneer curled his lip as the veins beside his
eyes throbbed beneath his skin. And Derrick’s snarling face became the last
thing he saw. Slamming the door shut with the man’s head, Victoria stood in
rigid horror as Derrick nearly decapitated him with a single swiping motion
across his throat. And as the man fell, Derrick pounced on him, continuing the
violent assault. Fist after fist pulverized the man’s face and upper chest
until he was no longer moving and both his attacker and the floor beneath him
were covered in blood.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DwrQDaqcWY/VbWcaY7bZsI/AAAAAAAAqg8/5ULktjtETOU/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1DwrQDaqcWY/VbWcaY7bZsI/AAAAAAAAqg8/5ULktjtETOU/s640/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Ahl7exRBuA/VbWcaU5p22I/AAAAAAAAqg4/KKMAE9vmG6Q/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2Ahl7exRBuA/VbWcaU5p22I/AAAAAAAAqg4/KKMAE9vmG6Q/s640/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick stood and calmly wiped his hands on the man’s orange
handkerchief, looking very satisfied with himself. “You’re out of your fucking
mind!” Derrick’s bright red glare shot towards her and Victoria took a deep
breath to maintain her composure. Anger flashed briefly in his eyes and
Victoria scoffed, shook her head and stepped around him. But he caught her
before she took another step and whipped her around to face him. “Let go of
me!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WozEnPJuAmU/VbWcekuU7DI/AAAAAAAAqhI/dFSKUEBGpGg/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WozEnPJuAmU/VbWcekuU7DI/AAAAAAAAqhI/dFSKUEBGpGg/s640/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZIf2BGxqaM/VbWckGkWADI/AAAAAAAAqhU/-O6ZME95zEA/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZIf2BGxqaM/VbWckGkWADI/AAAAAAAAqhU/-O6ZME95zEA/s640/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Or what? Huh? Gonna use your magic on me again? Go on. Give
it a try, Victoria. Immerse me in flames and see how easily you get out of
here,” he taunted, nearly laughing at her frail attempt to pull away from his
grip. “You’re in the back room in a club full of blood-thirsty monsters and if
you think for a second they’ll hesitate to rip your throat out, you’ve got
another thing coming.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can handle myself.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is that a fact?” he asked, screwing his lips up in a smile.
He slowly released his hold on her but continued standing between her and the
door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fqwUUzvLuao/VbWcjVlKZRI/AAAAAAAAqhQ/C4QLqfgtoS4/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fqwUUzvLuao/VbWcjVlKZRI/AAAAAAAAqhQ/C4QLqfgtoS4/s640/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ask Rowan if it’s a fact.” The mention of his Sire’s name
caused Derrick’s eyebrow to flinch and Victoria continued. “I saw what you did.
All those people, Derrick. This can’t be who you are now. There has to be a way
to save you; to return you to…normal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t want to be saved, Victoria! For once in a very long
time, I am enjoying myself. I forgot how much fun feeding could be. The
feeling of tearing into a steady, throbbing vein is liberating,” he paused and narrowed his
gaze at her. “What’s that look for? You can’t honestly tell me you’re sad that
lapdog of a man is gone. And considering how much you enjoyed our sex games, I
know you don’t completely loathe this side of me. Tell me you’re not looking
forward to it now.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzi_iDg3anU/VbWcs19YiqI/AAAAAAAAqhw/YBsPJ0qP3is/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yzi_iDg3anU/VbWcs19YiqI/AAAAAAAAqhw/YBsPJ0qP3is/s640/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dglmnIM0AhE/VbWcsGW-7qI/AAAAAAAAqho/10prwgMlSt8/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dglmnIM0AhE/VbWcsGW-7qI/AAAAAAAAqho/10prwgMlSt8/s640/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“As if I’d let you touch me…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“As if I’d give you the choice? I’m a soulless,
self-centered prick who couldn’t care less about the world or the people in it,
remember? It’s who I am, Victoria. It’s who I’ve always been. I’M A FUCKING
DEMON!” he shouted, throwing his hands up and backing away slightly. “And you
can choose to deny it all you want but sooner or later you’ll have to face
facts. The Derrick you knew is gone and I am all that remains.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEzsF2ZoyNk/VbWct_aHa3I/AAAAAAAAqh0/BfbTLPDibQw/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BEzsF2ZoyNk/VbWct_aHa3I/AAAAAAAAqh0/BfbTLPDibQw/s640/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. You’re sick and you need help whether you admit it or
not. And as far as what happened at my place, the things you said…I guess I
just needed to know for sure where I stood.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, now you know.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah. Now I do,” she sighed and moved towards the door.
“I’m not giving up on you, Derrick. Even if you’ve given up on yourself. If
there’s a way, I’ll find it.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good luck.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
*Author's note: I know it's been a while since a real update, and I apologize for that. Whenever I think I'm on top of things, something else pops up and gives me a fat slap of reality. Recently my Mom moved in with me and my husband. She's been bed-bound for nearly three years and needs a lot of assistance with daily living. It's been a real struggle and has left very little time for anything else. I don't want to make promises about when I'll update because to be honest, I have no idea when I'll find the time to. I won't abandon any of my stories. And I will continue working on them as much as I can whenever possible. I appreciate everyone for understanding and thank you for sticking it out with me through everything. :)*<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/09/56-stroke-of-luck-pt-4.html">Continue----></a>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-67780083943073268512015-05-19T13:23:00.000-04:002015-05-19T20:57:50.131-04:00Liebster Award<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eA8dy_ZCtDk/VVs0Ph0UnEI/AAAAAAAAXY8/167-BxasfY8/s1600/liebster-award.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eA8dy_ZCtDk/VVs0Ph0UnEI/AAAAAAAAXY8/167-BxasfY8/s1600/liebster-award.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I was nominated for this award by <a href="http://kissofavampire-100babychallenge.blogspot.com/2011/07/intro.html">Jazen</a>. She is a great friend and an amazing writer of several Sims' stories as well as the published author of the book <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fiendish-A-Twisted-Fairytale-Meka-James-ebook/dp/B00JZZGTWE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1398724110&sr=8-4&keywords=meka+james">Fiendish</a>. It means a lot that you find my writing award-worthy. Thank you :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Liebster Award is given by bloggers to bloggers, to
promote the blogging sites we love and support.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Accepting the nomination comes with these conditions:</u></b><br />
1. Post the award on your blog.<br />
2. Thank the blogger who presented the award and link back to their blog.<br />
3. Nominate 5-11 bloggers whom you feel deserve this award and have fewer than
or equal to 3,000 followers.<br />
4. Answer 11 questions posted by the nominator, and ask your nominees 11
questions.<br />
<br />
<b><u>My Nominations:</u></b></div>
~Jean-Marie for <a href="http://tamed-jean-marie.blogspot.com/">Tamed</a>.<br />
~Valois Fulcanelli for <a href="http://www.themadnessofmrgoth.com/">The Madness of Mr. Goth</a>.<br />
~Fyachii and It's Me Geuliz for <a href="http://fyachii.tumblr.com/tagged/onlymine">Only Mine</a>.<br />
~Lily Parker for <a href="https://jillthomas100babychallenge.wordpress.com/">Jill Thomas 100 Baby Challenge</a>.<br />
~Nernershuman for <a href="http://nernershuman.tumblr.com/wakinglife">Waking Life</a>.<br />
~Ivory for <a href="http://ivorys-stories.blogspot.com/2015/03/unforgettable.html">Unforgettable</a>.<br />
~Gayl and Beth for <a href="http://sessions-studiotime.blogspot.com/">Sessions: Studio Time</a>.<br />
~MrsOogieBoogie for <a href="https://feartheorchard.wordpress.com/">Fear the Orchard</a>.<br />
~Simmerz83 for <a href="https://simmerz83.wordpress.com/2015/02/26/birth-of-avalon-contents-page/">Birth of Avalon</a>.<br />
~PolarJenny aka Little Fox for <a href="http://shouhow.pixnet.net/blog/category/1588109">Lights and Shadows</a>. (Chinese Only).<br />
~Alidaen for <a href="http://alidaen.blogspot.com/2011/12/indice-primera-temporada.html">Los Hijos de Édora</a> (The Children of Édora). (Spanish Blog).<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>01. How long have you been writing?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I've been writing since I could pick up a pen. My first stories (some really, really creative stuff from my adolescence) my Dad sent to the local newspapers to have published. Only one made it into the Florida Times-Union but man it was nice seeing it there (I was 8). I still have it although it's seen better days hahaha. It should have been laminated but I guess no one thought of doing it then and over the years it's um...well I can still make out some of the words :P</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>02. What was your very first story?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://desiredsims3.wordpress.com/season-1-2/s1-chapter-1-meet-zoe-vale/">Desired</a>. It was created in 2011 and is a cheeseball of a supernatural love story. Haha seriously the writing makes me cringe but I won't delete or remove the blog because it helps me see how far I've come. The story was based off a few Sims I'd made and had been playing after EA released their "Late Night" expansion. I'd decided to share the story with everyone else. Surprisingly it got a lot of positive reviews and to this day people ask if I have any plans to continue it. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>03. What other hobbies do you have outside of Sims?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gaming. I'm a huge nerd, I know it. I enjoy MMORPGs (massively multiplayer online role-playing games) and I play several with my husband, mostly fantasy based stuff like Final Fantasy, Tera, Neverwinter (the last 2 being FTPs i.e. free-to-plays). We used to play World of Warcraft but haven't in a few years. I also enjoy console games, of which I enjoy FPS (first-person shooter). I am a HUGE fan of the Resident Evil franchise although it's become a little watered down now. Same with the Call of Duty franchise but I still buy them dammit. I have a few driving games i.e. Grand Theft Auto and a few Need for Speeds. And recently started trying the Assassin's Creeds. Other than gaming, I enjoy reading, and watching movies (mostly horror). I also like drawing and harassing my beloved.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>04. Of your Sim stories, which one is your favorite and why?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do you hate me? What is it with these questions? Lol. Hmm. I'd say this one, <u><a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/">Cold Blooded</a></u>, is my favorite. It was my 4th attempt at story writing and I'd like to think I've since honed my skill much more than previous attempts. It was also sort of my nod to my first story, <u>Desired</u>, as in a vampire helps a witch come into her powers and protects her while she navigates the underworld. <u>Cold Blooded</u> is the first of my work to include a lot of my familial background.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>05. Do you remember the very first Sim story you ever read?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes. It was <a href="http://www.thesims3.com/contentDetail.html?contentId=273357">After Dark </a>by Nygirl. It was on the Sims 3 forums and I'd come across it randomly. Her writing was so great and her pictures so vivid. And I'd never knew the game I enjoyed playing so much could be used to illustrate the thousands of stories in my head. It made me want to give it a try. The pictures to the story have since been removed but the story remains.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>06. If you could make 1 Sim character a real person who would it be and why?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Damn. Tough question. There are so many hotties I'd like to um...have an intellectual conversation with. O.o Caleb, Derrick, Brett, Gavin, Kasper. Crap! Just one? Man... Alright. I think I'd choose Caleb Savage from <a href="http://aftermidnights3.blogspot.com/">After Midnight</a>. Because 1.) He's hot. 2.) He's sweet, smart and protective 3.) He's hot. 4.) He's great in be...b-being a conversationalist. In addition to Caleb, I'd select Derrick Constantine from <a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/">Cold Blooded</a>, Brett Knight from <a href="http://codenamedanger.blogspot.com/">Codename: Danger</a>, and Kasper from <a href="http://djvchameleon.blogspot.com/">The Chameleon</a>. Each one has something special and fun and I think they would make great friends in real life. Yes, I cheated that question and chose one per story :P sue me! </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>07. What's your favorite song?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Um...I don't know. That's a hard one to answer. There are so many that make me get up and dance. Hmm...for now I'll go with "From Yesterday" or "Attack" by 30 Seconds to Mars from <i>A Beautiful Lie</i> album. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>08. What's your favorite blogging platform and why?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blogger. I used to be a huge WordPress user but it became a pain to update and customize my blogs like I wanted so I moved. I have a Tumblr but don't even get me started on how frustrating it is for me to navigate that thing. Blogger seems the simplest and cleanest but it too has it downfalls. And the many corporate decisions that affect the outlook of the platform bothers me at times as well.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>09. Where do you get the ideas for your stories?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My imagination. I get ideas in the strangest ways and mostly at the oddest times too. Sleeping, showering, randomly in the middle of a conversation with someone about ice cream. What? Ice cream is a very interesting and complex subject. I could talk for wee...minutes about it. I think the first one that was inspired by "real life" was <u>Wasteland</u> which I wrote simply because of my love of scaring the bejesus out of my sister (she has a fear of zombies...). Others are just my restless mind trying to do something with itself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>
10. If you won the lotto, what would be your first purchase?</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I'd pay off my house. Hmm...I'd maybe even buy a new one. Yes, I moved here just a year ago and I love it, but I'd move into a mansion. Nothing huge or too expensive (I'd still have to pay taxes on it). But something a slight bit bigger with a huge yard, pool and gorgeous landscape. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<b>
11. What's your favorite supernatural to play and why?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Werewolves. I just love the way they walk, run, and the toddlers are the cutest. I would have really LOVED it had they been hairer and scarier but...that's what CC is for eh?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Questions to my nominees:</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
01. When did you start writing?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
02. Are any of your characters or situations based on real people or events?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
03. What inspires you to write?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
04. Which of your characters is your favorite?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
05. Who is your favorite author?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
06. What kind of books do you read?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
07. If you could use the Sims Time Machine, where would you go and why?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
08. You're stranded on a deserted island with 4 characters from your story(ies). Who are they and what do you think would happen? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
09. If you could be any character from a book or movie, who would you be and why?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
10. If you could marry the man/woman of your dreams, who would you choose and why?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11. Sims have a lot of quirky and fun inventions and objects not found in real life. If you could choose one thing (for example, spellbook, time machine, Bonehilda) what would it be and why? (Feel free to choose from any of the amazing custom creations as well e.g. Pose Player, Pregnancy controller, lighting tweaks, etc.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Thank you again, Mica, for the nomination :)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
~Daijah</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-23718815918783304482015-05-03T21:16:00.000-04:002017-06-16T14:56:30.275-04:0054: A Stroke of Luck – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Warning: Rushed and clunky (I think...I don't know) I didn't have time to proofread (I'm sorry, seriously hectic schedule). Any errors will be fixed in the morning.*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WxkPitSF0MA/VUbCaUbRAaI/AAAAAAAAp3A/KarQYjw0KRs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WxkPitSF0MA/VUbCaUbRAaI/AAAAAAAAp3A/KarQYjw0KRs/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Advanced healing spell,” Victoria read aloud as she thumbed
through the pages of her family’s spellbook. It had a strange list of
ingredients but the possibilities were remarkable. She earmarked the page and
continued flipping. She was looking for someone or something that fit the
description given by their client Aidan Byrne. But what she didn’t realize, ‘tall’
and ‘furry’ covered a large spectrum of supernatural creatures. Everything
ranging from ogres, werewolves and even centaurs.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria looked up as she listened to her partner’s constant
clicking on his keyboard and sighed. The thought of spelling him or using magic
to cure his spine had crossed her mind a time or two. But she also knew there
would be consequences to using that kind of healing spell. Personal gain spells
were the most damning in the eyes of light magic and the balance of nature. It
could mean she would suffer severely for attempting it. It could also mean
someone somewhere else in the world would have to give up their ability to walk
in order for Mike to have his mobility back. The prospects of watching him up
and about again far outweighed any guilt she’d feel about a total stranger…at
least she hoped it would.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-og_AQDjL1QY/VUbCZ9zIlaI/AAAAAAAAp28/BSGus2vfcMw/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-og_AQDjL1QY/VUbCZ9zIlaI/AAAAAAAAp28/BSGus2vfcMw/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What are you doing over there?” she asked, as his fast
fingers snapped her back to the present. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Looking at this website about your other world. Did you
know there were about 100 different theories about every mythological creature
thought to be in existence? Witches for example. It’s said that your type got
their start hundreds of years prior to the Salem trials while another site
claims that was when magic was first used on a more recognized basis.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-riLqV3LX4GQ/VUbCa-BW-LI/AAAAAAAAp3E/SUCqWEy1W3E/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-riLqV3LX4GQ/VUbCa-BW-LI/AAAAAAAAp3E/SUCqWEy1W3E/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Interesting,” Victoria replied, turning her attention to
the book in front of her. They’d been at it all morning long. Researching,
theorizing and hoping they were at least close to the right trail. Aidan Byrne
called to check in ten minutes after they walked in the door and the
desperation in his voice became their motivation to get busy; plus, they really
didn’t want to disappoint their first client ever. This kind of business
THRIVED on positive word-of-mouth. “A-ha!” Victoria exclaimed and popped up
from her seat. “A Fawnling.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A what?” Mike asked as she sat the book down in front of
him with it turned to the page. An image of a horned creature had been crudely
sketched and beside it was a detailed description. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3oDp7e8hz0/VUbCkDAechI/AAAAAAAAp3U/1XCS_ytKnp8/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b3oDp7e8hz0/VUbCkDAechI/AAAAAAAAp3U/1XCS_ytKnp8/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A Fawnling is a type of mythological woodland creature with
the upper torso, and arms of a human, the lower body of a horse-like animal and
the head of a deer. It gets its name from the resemblance it has to a baby deer.
The creature walks upright like man, but has the instincts and ferociousness of
a lion. It is as quick as a rider-less horse, as strong as a grizzly and as cunning
as a fox. There are few other supernatural types the Fawnling gets along with, Dryads,
Nymphs and Centaurs being highest on their natural enemies list. Fawnlings have
for centuries fought for control over the rights to inhabit the forest.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R0aqF1J2pw8/VUbCmrAag2I/AAAAAAAAp3c/dorvwQsj_hw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R0aqF1J2pw8/VUbCmrAag2I/AAAAAAAAp3c/dorvwQsj_hw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok…well, it certainly fits the description of ‘tall and
furry’ but are you sure this is the right um…person?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t. I’m hoping Mr. Byrne can I.D. him for us.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know. Our client didn’t seem very inclined to help
us.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well he’s going to have to get inclined, and soon. We have two
days left to recover his stolen property if he ever wants to get home again,”
she responded, glancing at the clock on the wall. “And I guess that will have
to wait until tomorrow. According to his account details, he doesn’t accept
phone calls after 5. So. I guess we keep hitting the books, find a few more
possible suspects and take them to him in the morning.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sounds good.” Mike thought for a moment, shutting the book
to its worn leather cover before glancing up at Victoria again. “Where did you
get this thing? There’s no way a library would keep something this…ragged. It
looks hundreds of years old.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-glE2iryH8cI/VUbCorSUAyI/AAAAAAAAp3k/1wJhzFQ5jkc/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-glE2iryH8cI/VUbCorSUAyI/AAAAAAAAp3k/1wJhzFQ5jkc/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t tell me, your family’s grimoire?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wow, Mikey, I’m impressed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I told you, I’ve been doing my research. I will reserve a little
cynicism. But it would take a complete idiot not to believe after that little
show you put on in my living room.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, as long as you know knowledge is power, a healthy
dose of cynicism isn’t all bad,” she smiled, softly rubbing his shoulder as she
closed up the book and carried it towards her desk. “See you in the morning,
partner.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Goodnight, Vik.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qHBS8tck6w/VUbCsjcvy6I/AAAAAAAAp3s/l-YFJ2hLRLE/s1600/Screenshot-07.2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qHBS8tck6w/VUbCsjcvy6I/AAAAAAAAp3s/l-YFJ2hLRLE/s1600/Screenshot-07.2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria got home and made herself a small dinner.
She tried distracting herself with a little television, hoping to help calm the
niggling voices in the back of her head. But it didn’t take long before she was
face first into her research once more; this time, Derrick was the topic of
interest. She sat going over the pages of information Cole had been able to
secure from various law enforcement databases. During the mid-17<sup>th</sup>
and early 18<sup>th</sup> centuries, the ‘Monster of Manchester’ was headline
news in several countries including England, France, Egypt, and Spain.
Countless bodies had been attributed to this merciless serial killer, the
number rounding the high 500s. There were varying descriptions about his
appearance but the one thing eyewitnesses seemed to agree on were his bright,
red eyes. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFVTOxJKA_8/VUbCvuCwttI/AAAAAAAAp30/UXfu_z5PKO0/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aFVTOxJKA_8/VUbCvuCwttI/AAAAAAAAp30/UXfu_z5PKO0/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh my god,” she gasped reviewing the photographs of several
crime scenes. Aside from the expected gory exhibitions and small puncture
wounds on their necks, Victoria’s eyes fell on another, less obvious connection
that each seemed to have. According to the homeowners’ inventory on the 3<sup>rd</sup>
page of the police reports, the victims’ were all in possession of supernatural
artifacts that went unnoticed by investigators at the time. A Chalice of
Torment was found at the Whey household, a Torc of Embitterment in the
Ridgedale household and a Griffin Head at the Abbotts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCgBt5HC6TI/VUbCx8E29CI/AAAAAAAAp38/Cu-2IOX8G90/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RCgBt5HC6TI/VUbCx8E29CI/AAAAAAAAp38/Cu-2IOX8G90/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pulling up her internet, Victoria did a quick search of the
items. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<i>The Torc of
Embitterment was worn by Atlantean priestess-judges during the sentencing of
criminals that had offended the god-kings of Atlantis. As any discretion
against the rulers was punishable by execution, the Torc quickly became a
symbol of death. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<i>Griffin heads, usually
fitted on bronze cauldrons or drinking vessels in archaic Greek art, served as
talismans to ward off evil spirits.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;">
And finally, <i>The
Chalice of Torment was used to collect the spilt blood of sacrificial virgins.
Once the blood had been collected, the chalice was used as a mixing vessel
where other herbs and powders were added to turn the liquid into a psychotropic
fluid used by Atlantean priestess-judges to invoke spirit journeys.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hSwdBzix6ns/VUbC0lr_OUI/AAAAAAAAp4E/OXhLDpisQYg/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hSwdBzix6ns/VUbC0lr_OUI/AAAAAAAAp4E/OXhLDpisQYg/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So two cases of Atlantean and another of Greek origins. But
all with a connection to the Cult of the Damned,” she spoke aloud, rereading
the names on the list in front of her. <i>Abbott,
Whey, Ridgedale</i>, she continued repeating the names in her head before a
light went on; these were the names of the men she and Derrick recovered the
three talismans from. “Son of a bitch!” Hades’ barking caused her to jump and
she watched him dart through the living room towards the front door. “What is
it, boy? Something out there?” Briefly she considered opening the door to let
him outside. But if it turned out to be some cute, innocent bunny, she’d never
forgive herself for letting him harm it. “I’ll be back.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 10.0pt; margin-left: 1.0in; margin-right: 1.0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T6WyqOiVbyk/VUbC55rCnVI/AAAAAAAAp4M/SUrkEowqgO8/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T6WyqOiVbyk/VUbC55rCnVI/AAAAAAAAp4M/SUrkEowqgO8/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Grabbing her sidearm, Victoria stepped out into the warm
spring air to take a look around her front yard as Hades continued barking
behind her. She could see headlights approaching from the corner before turning
off the street but other than that the night appeared still. Starting back to
her front door, she paused suddenly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvNva95ydFw/VUbC7auBFcI/AAAAAAAAp4U/r_6SiXTkc00/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PvNva95ydFw/VUbC7auBFcI/AAAAAAAAp4U/r_6SiXTkc00/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDKRnsVMxGs/VUbC8mS6AhI/AAAAAAAAp4c/TcZqi6l7XAQ/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PDKRnsVMxGs/VUbC8mS6AhI/AAAAAAAAp4c/TcZqi6l7XAQ/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The rose bush beside the garage rustled and the lack of wind indicated something or someone was hiding back there. Her hand gripped the handle of her weapon tighter and, at the sound of the hammer falling into place, a dark figure popped up, hands raised. “Don’t shoot!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Jesus, Derrick! What the hell are you doing skulking around my yard?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I wasn’t skulking! I do not skulk! I was merely watching you secretly from the shadows!” he smirked.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria folded her arms into her chest and sighed. “What are you doing out here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I just wanted to make sure you were ok…after last night.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then pick up the phone, Derrick! Or better yet, come inside the house. Hades was going nuts!”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2kpKXHzqPg/VUbDDvEIi0I/AAAAAAAAp4k/hQD2S9KqPnM/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2kpKXHzqPg/VUbDDvEIi0I/AAAAAAAAp4k/hQD2S9KqPnM/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ULNJklxtGuo/VUbDFGb7vsI/AAAAAAAAp4s/OAzS9oMypnc/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ULNJklxtGuo/VUbDFGb7vsI/AAAAAAAAp4s/OAzS9oMypnc/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He smiled to himself and glanced over her shoulder towards
the front door. Hades was pacing frantically in front of it, waiting for his
Master to return, or anxious to get outside to see what was happening. “I grabbed
your mail,” Derrick replied, handing it over.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks,” she responded slowly, mouthing an ‘ow’ as she
adjusted the envelopes in her hands. “Wanna come in or are you gonna camp in
the tree tonight?” Again he smiled but this time he started after her as
Victoria returned to her front door. “Hey, Boy, it was just Derrick,” she
grinned and rubbed Hades’ head as he jumped excitedly into her arms.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick shut the door behind him, and gave Hades a warm
welcome before dropping his bag to the floor. “So what are you two up to
tonight?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cRcnq3g2eRs/VUbDGXc7C9I/AAAAAAAAp4w/nK2CR0cRgFU/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cRcnq3g2eRs/VUbDGXc7C9I/AAAAAAAAp4w/nK2CR0cRgFU/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-De7fdKn6VkI/VUbDN51a4II/AAAAAAAAp48/K0hoEzQVbIs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-De7fdKn6VkI/VUbDN51a4II/AAAAAAAAp48/K0hoEzQVbIs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria walked over to her coffee table and shuffled around
a few files, concealing the pages on Derrick as she responded. “Well I am hard
at work on this missing gold case and Hades is squirrel watching. He seriously
drives me crazy barking at them constantly. But it’s a reminder to buy new
blinds this weekend. What about you?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nothing much; I kinda needed to get out of my head. Went
for a walk and ended up here.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You went for a walk?” Victoria asked motioning towards the duffel
he’d brought with him “You packed an overnight bag to go on a walk?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick glanced down at the bag and shrugged. “You need any
help with the case?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaDGWelWE9c/VUbDQ1mjd8I/AAAAAAAAp5I/c2UN6gYBF_E/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OaDGWelWE9c/VUbDQ1mjd8I/AAAAAAAAp5I/c2UN6gYBF_E/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course I do. What little I know about leprechauns can be
summed up in three words: Saint Patrick’s Day. Outside of the cute little men
wearing green suits and hoarding a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow, I have
no clue where to even begin on this thing. Mike had some ideas about using
magic to track a rainbow so I’ve been coming up with spells to see how to get
that to work.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And how is he dealing with this? The whole magic thing?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So far? He’s a working skeptic. He believes in what I can
do but he’s pretty concerned about what else might be out there. The other day
I saw him looking through old case files we worked, trying to find a connection
to the supernatural world. Also, I think he knows about you.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“About me what?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know; the fact that you’re not human. Last night, he
asked me how I got started into magic. I told him everything sorta fell into
place when I met you. Being a detective, he started putting things together.
How you are always around, never seem to sleep, never eat or drink or…breathe.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He said that?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hTOuP8Mt24w/VUbDQgzjY7I/AAAAAAAAp5E/4FDhPQep7-A/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hTOuP8Mt24w/VUbDQgzjY7I/AAAAAAAAp5E/4FDhPQep7-A/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the breathing part, yeah.”<br />
<br />
“And what did you tell him?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I told him it wasn’t my place to say anything and since it
wasn’t a ‘no, you’re crazy stop making stuff up’ he knows he’s on the right
track. It’s up to you if you want to fill in the blanks.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick nodded and took a step further into the room. “What’s
that smell?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What smell?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re bleeding.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hmm? Oh yeah I cut my finger on a piece of mail. It’s no
biggie though, just a paper cut,” she replied and dropped the envelopes to the
sideboard near the kitchen wall. Derrick followed closely, inhaling the scent
of her blood as he moved. Victoria smiled at him before undoing her hair and
starting towards the stairs. “I’m gonna shower and relax for a little while.
Wanna join me? Or you can get a movie started instead if you’d like; we can veg
out on the couch.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZW-LJya4Ss/VUbDVjFpsCI/AAAAAAAAp5U/2vpSI-BfmCg/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TZW-LJya4Ss/VUbDVjFpsCI/AAAAAAAAp5U/2vpSI-BfmCg/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He didn’t respond. Instead, he continued staring at the mail
sitting beside the keys on the table, slowly working to silence the anxious
demand of his hunger. He could feel his fangs lengthen on either side of his
jaw; his mouth was salivating, eager for a taste. It was just as it had been
the night he rescued her from Rowan. The smell of her blood taunted him as he
walked her home; a constant reminder of what he was missing out on. Now here it
was again, lingering in the air like a beckoning finger, pulling at his
nostrils and drawing him into its seductive web. “Derrick?” Victoria called for
him and waited. “Hey, are you coming to join me or not?” she asked with a smile
in her voice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EY1oFMVbAEo/VUbDaLVZ-FI/AAAAAAAAp5c/1lE7e0iMRZA/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EY1oFMVbAEo/VUbDaLVZ-FI/AAAAAAAAp5c/1lE7e0iMRZA/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H2CepwrfgTM/VUbDasZCK3I/AAAAAAAAp5g/57pXiovpXWg/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H2CepwrfgTM/VUbDasZCK3I/AAAAAAAAp5g/57pXiovpXWg/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Slowly, Derrick turned to face her. The veins near his eyes
were both visible and throbbing. And his eyes she’d only seen this red with
hunger on a couple other occasions and both times happened when he tried to
control his thirst. A subdued gasp pierced her parted lips and she steadily
retreated backwards towards the stairs. Rowan had gotten to taste her but she
was <i>his</i> a fact made clear the night
she broke open a vein and let her sweet flow of arterial goodness pour into his
lips; and he was desperate for more.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick?” she whispered softly, her hands placed in front
of her defensively. For every step she took backwards, he inched closer towards
her. Victoria knew running was not an option, there was no way she could outrun
a vampire. With his speed and strength he could overpower her in seconds and
she would be helpless to stop him. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vKfZPkviZQ/VUbDfU_solI/AAAAAAAAp5s/uqqD9diYNvU/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5vKfZPkviZQ/VUbDfU_solI/AAAAAAAAp5s/uqqD9diYNvU/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtGdD8oA9Ww/VUbDjR8EZOI/AAAAAAAAp50/7KhhHbb3ddk/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MtGdD8oA9Ww/VUbDjR8EZOI/AAAAAAAAp50/7KhhHbb3ddk/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She glanced up the stairs again. If she could just make it
passed the halfway point and into her protection bubble, she would be ok. “Where
do you think you’re going?” he asked, watching her eyes move about the room
looking for an escape. “Do you really think you can make it up there before I
have you pinned beneath me, sucking the life from your veins?” he asked, almost
laughing. His voice was deeper than normal and made the hairs on the back of her
neck stand up. “Go on, let’s give it a try. I don’t mind a little chase with my
meal.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
His tongue licked across the sharp incisors and an amused
smirk appeared on his lips as he continued moving forward. As if this was all a
game. This wasn’t him. Victoria had never been face-to-face with the demon
inside him, but now it seemed she was being forcibly introduced to the ‘Monster
of Manchester’ himself; an introduction she could have lived without. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPNiBxn4jj8/VUbDk3j5LdI/AAAAAAAAp58/eSeYH1A8MAY/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SPNiBxn4jj8/VUbDk3j5LdI/AAAAAAAAp58/eSeYH1A8MAY/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sensing her distress, Hades rumbled low behind her, creeping
towards the object of his fury, but Derrick paid him no mind. “Derrick, please.
Snap out of it! This isn’t you!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh? And I suppose you know me so well. You’ve always known
what I am, Victoria, you just chose to overlook it.” He growled, his
intimidating gaze piercing her to the bone. “Sorry to disappoint you, Love, but
this is <i>exactly</i> who I am! Not
convinced? Why don’t we give old Cole a ring, have him come over. Since the two
of you have been conspiring behind my back.” He smirked at the shocked
expression on her face, moving closer still. “I’m a vampire, Victoria, I could
smell him all over you. You want to be with him so badly, I think I’ll leave
your head on his doorstep for him to find!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-Ski-sCSP4/VUbDozwsySI/AAAAAAAAp6E/w47c3o4cSzw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-Ski-sCSP4/VUbDozwsySI/AAAAAAAAp6E/w47c3o4cSzw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quickly thinking up a spell, Victoria began chanting, “Bind
his movement, bind his will…” Derrick rushed towards her before she could
finish. Closing his hand around her throat, he smiled sinisterly, enjoying the
pure look of fear in her eyes as he held her. Squeezing her neck tighter to
restrict airflow, he lifted her above his head and tossed her across the room. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VY_-bkYnhU8/VUbDtS-FqhI/AAAAAAAAp6M/qTByj3ywiPM/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VY_-bkYnhU8/VUbDtS-FqhI/AAAAAAAAp6M/qTByj3ywiPM/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hades attacked, running at Derrick full speed. The hell
hound’s head split in two and a venomous beast arose from his body, growling
and snarling at the vampire as it set its sights on his throat. Derrick was
tackled to the floor as the Doberman came down on him with all its force.
Vicious howling and barking rumbled from behind the couch as Victoria slowly
pulled herself to her feet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She started dragging herself towards the stairs again and
heard Hades whimper seconds before the snarling stopped. She didn’t have to
turn around to realize Derrick was back on his feet. Instead, she tossed
herself at the stairs and scrambled up each one. Derrick’s hand closed around
her ankle, pulling her back towards him. Victoria kicked violently, trying
again to spell him. “Make him powerless, make him still…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H5IBWbjIjOk/VUbDuar2xtI/AAAAAAAAp6Q/bZlW9sPFmWk/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H5IBWbjIjOk/VUbDuar2xtI/AAAAAAAAp6Q/bZlW9sPFmWk/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2u1AdbvFmzs/VUbDx2JL66I/AAAAAAAAp6c/wUn7U86hnWY/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2u1AdbvFmzs/VUbDx2JL66I/AAAAAAAAp6c/wUn7U86hnWY/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her head knocked against the bottom step as she was jerked
to her ass at his feet. Derrick smirked and reached down for her, again
gripping her by the neck before throwing her against the wall. “Incendium!” she
growled, and a large fireball bolted from her hands, hitting him in the face.
Derrick fell back, brushing at his body to put out the flames and Victoria
crumbled to the ground, rubbing her sore neck.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--rSBv3orWFU/VUbDzqsdmVI/AAAAAAAAp6g/KLUPjQlgu4I/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--rSBv3orWFU/VUbDzqsdmVI/AAAAAAAAp6g/KLUPjQlgu4I/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She hurried up the midway section of the stairs and finally
completed her spell. “Confine his actions, ensure harm to none. Bound only by
me and shall it be undone.” A bright light exploded around the vampire and he
screamed as radiant ropes encircled his body, carving through his flesh.
Derrick fell in a ball of blue light and remained there as it slowly
dissipated. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGjDqpoPDtY/VUbD4zczN5I/AAAAAAAAp6s/lpWFH8tHA44/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rGjDqpoPDtY/VUbD4zczN5I/AAAAAAAAp6s/lpWFH8tHA44/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
When she was sure the spell had worked, Victoria made her
way down the stairs, stepping over Derrick’s body to get to Hades. She placed
her hands over the dog’s corpse. “Innova,” she whispered three times. A purple flicker
of light sparkled from her fingertips and filled his prone body. Hades stirred,
weakened momentarily, but was on his feet in seconds after his spirit was
renewed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KatTjgI7FyY/VUbD7NR9gBI/AAAAAAAAp60/p_KM8WklnxM/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KatTjgI7FyY/VUbD7NR9gBI/AAAAAAAAp60/p_KM8WklnxM/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” she turned to look at Derrick, still resting in
a fetal position at the bottom of her staircase. Hades growled and started
towards him and Victoria soothed his ruffled fur, calming the animal before she
moved to check on Derrick. She started to reach out for him and he promptly
stopped her. “Don’t!” he shouted and slipped away from her. “Don’t touch me.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey, it’s just me, Derrick. Are you ok?” Derrick refused to
look up at her. He sat with his back against the wall, clenching and
unclenching his fist as his face ran a gamut of emotions. “Derrick?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I didn’t mean to hurt you, Victoria. I never meant for
it…it never should have gone that far. I was trying to control it. I tried to
keep it fed. I’m sorry.” Derrick lifted his eyes and finally looked at her.
“Rowan was right. I have been fooling myself, Victoria.” Keeping his eyes on
her, he caressed her face and slowly stood. “I can’t do this anymore,” He
whispered and started for the door. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c40geu1u7A4/VUbD8wV6qkI/AAAAAAAAp68/_c4U1NtI8sc/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c40geu1u7A4/VUbD8wV6qkI/AAAAAAAAp68/_c4U1NtI8sc/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w6ipgcexclc/VUbEC8mztKI/AAAAAAAAp7E/n7_dhicp-ic/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w6ipgcexclc/VUbEC8mztKI/AAAAAAAAp7E/n7_dhicp-ic/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do what, Derrick? I don’t understand, what is happening to
you?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry, Victoria. I can’t be around you right now.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria sat silently a moment, processing the words he
spoke and a sharp pain shot through her chest. “What does that mean? A-are you
b-breaking up with me? I thought…you said…you promised you wouldn’t break my
heart.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I…know, Victoria! But he wants…<i>I</i> want to rip you apart! I can’t let myself hurt you again. I’m
sorry.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_E3hqDuhZ0s/VUbEFH8GL7I/AAAAAAAAp7Q/13tyNmt7zFw/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_E3hqDuhZ0s/VUbEFH8GL7I/AAAAAAAAp7Q/13tyNmt7zFw/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, wait, I can help you! Please, just let me help,”
Victoria cried, feeling her tears dry on her face as new ones rolled down her
cheeks. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He turned around and faced her. “You can’t help me, Victoria.
You’re the reason…just…stay away from me, please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? No! Please! Please, let me help you! Derrick, don’t
do this to me,” she begged, starting after him. “Derrick!” He quickly shifted
into raven form as he exited the door and disappeared from sight. Victoria slid
down the wall to the floor, sobbing uncontrollably.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
*Author's note: Websites shown in this episode were <a href="http://kitki.tumblr.com/post/28478809940/we-love-you-lara">From Kitki With Love</a>, on Victoria's computer screen. And <a href="http://www.allsupernatural.net/creatures.php">All Supernatural</a>, from Mike's computer screen. The Fawnling depicted in Victoria's grimoire, courtesy of <a href="http://moonskin93.tumblr.com/post/61087273189/hi-again-xd-im-sharing-this-faun-so-you-can">Moonskin</a>.*<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/07/55-stroke-of-luck-pt-3.html">Continue----></a>DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-11607679691303647302015-04-19T16:31:00.002-04:002021-05-02T11:05:07.772-04:0053: A Stroke of Luck – Pt. 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRXsE_XIzlU/VSx1APueCXI/AAAAAAAApTI/QmdbaK54AYU/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qRXsE_XIzlU/VSx1APueCXI/AAAAAAAApTI/QmdbaK54AYU/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rVpyh7Brcs/VSx1Ai0TIVI/AAAAAAAApTM/KQ25Mg1VAIY/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rVpyh7Brcs/VSx1Ai0TIVI/AAAAAAAApTM/KQ25Mg1VAIY/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re late,” Victoria scolded Mike as he wheeled himself
into the front door of the Moonlight Detective Agency.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“With good reason!” Derrick walked in a few feet behind him
and stood beside the door as Mike rolled to his desk. “I found a stray.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What did I tell you about that, Mikey? We’re not zoned for
dogs.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ouch. You know, a guy with an ego as big as mine is bound
to take that kind of thing to heart, Victoria. And to think I even stopped by a
florist to grab these,” Derrick frowned as he brandished a bountiful bouquet of
red roses. “I guess I’ll just have to find some other woman worthy of my shower
of affection!” He turned for the door and stopped with a smirk as Victoria’s
voice sounded off behind him.</div>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMxlKgbLDbA/VSx1AnKc5mI/AAAAAAAApTQ/5iKdH_ZyvKw/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AMxlKgbLDbA/VSx1AnKc5mI/AAAAAAAApTQ/5iKdH_ZyvKw/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8EDRD1kuDw/VSx1MjPUMJI/AAAAAAAApTg/v1eZQQ6dm0c/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8EDRD1kuDw/VSx1MjPUMJI/AAAAAAAApTg/v1eZQQ6dm0c/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Wait, I didn’t know you came bearing gifts,” she grinned approaching
him and snatched the flowers from his hand, giving them a deep inhale. “Thank
you, they’re beautiful.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Just like you.” Victoria stood on her tiptoes and locked
her arms around Derrick’s neck before placing a sweet, gentle kiss on his lips.
Instantly he twisted his
hand in her hair and tugged her head back, his eyes full of lust and wanting
and a wicked smile grew on his lips. Derrick covered Victoria’s lips, his
tongue moving against hers and she moaned at the invasion. Her mouth was warm
and inviting causing him to deepen the kiss while his hands slid down her back
cupping her well-rounded ass and yanking her body firmly against his.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIDqqVzebog/VSx1OEv1jZI/AAAAAAAApTo/0sjDxa2oPKw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TIDqqVzebog/VSx1OEv1jZI/AAAAAAAApTo/0sjDxa2oPKw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ina_6I1iAkA/VSx1OOp5vRI/AAAAAAAApTs/gQSF9bT_pVs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ina_6I1iAkA/VSx1OOp5vRI/AAAAAAAApTs/gQSF9bT_pVs/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Um…are you two planning on standing there making out all
day or is there some form of actual work that will take place here?” Mike
asked, clearing his throat to gain their attention. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
They separated and Victoria walked her flowers back towards
the desk while Derrick continued holding up the wall. “So I guess instead,
you’re just gonna stare at her ass.” Mike grinned as he finished
reorganizing his desk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I wasn’t staring I was examining the intricate detail on her
slacks. That’s really great stitch work; nicely curved uh…threading.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb9AAqKzlTE/VSx1W8FmqfI/AAAAAAAApT4/j69G-0ULyTE/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fb9AAqKzlTE/VSx1W8FmqfI/AAAAAAAApT4/j69G-0ULyTE/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0HX8zKnUTA0/VSx1YzH4sEI/AAAAAAAApUA/zhckpLFHsyI/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0HX8zKnUTA0/VSx1YzH4sEI/AAAAAAAApUA/zhckpLFHsyI/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“So when are you two open for business?” Derrick asked,
changing the subject as Victoria turned to him with a smile.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“As of five minutes ago,” she replied, dropping behind her
desk.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hopefully the phones will start ringing soon!” And just as
he’d completed his sentence, Mike’s phone sprang to life. Eagerly, he snatched
it from its base and greeted the voice on the other end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“This place looks great, Victoria, you two really did a nice
job.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well it wasn’t bad to begin with. And, thanks to our very
generous benefactor, we were able to find a fabulous interior designer and
turned this place into ‘home’. Mike wanted to go with a film noir 1940s look,
hence the Bogart-esque décor behind him. Me, I’m more modern artsy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know. I’ve seen your place.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JRf7lQI1heY/VSx1Z4yOgpI/AAAAAAAApUE/vjQZaFmZbWQ/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JRf7lQI1heY/VSx1Z4yOgpI/AAAAAAAApUE/vjQZaFmZbWQ/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Anyway,” Victoria frowned, choosing to ignore Derrick’s
comment, “We had to find some middle ground. Would you like the tour?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know…what’s in it for me?” he asked, pulling her
tightly against him as she moved from around her desk. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, we kept one of the bedrooms partially intact. I
figured it would be smart to have a small sleeping area in the back for those
long hours I’m hoping for. I’m sure it needs to be broken in.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, when you put it like that, I’d…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NXlm3fMHBUI/VSx1i5N6MxI/AAAAAAAApUQ/TaC8BxfIsFM/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NXlm3fMHBUI/VSx1i5N6MxI/AAAAAAAApUQ/TaC8BxfIsFM/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think we just got our first case!” Mike announced
excitedly, hanging up the phone. “Either that or some crackpot is taking a shot
at us.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why? What’s the case?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A man named Aidan Byrne claims he was robbed. Someone
attacked him in the park during yesterday’s rainstorm and stole a key off of
him. He says the key opened up a storage unit where his family’s valuables were
stored. After giving his statement to the police, he went to check up on the
locker. But when he opened it up, the entire place had been cleaned out.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what are the police doing about it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDivFuqhtpM/VSx1kEcOAAI/AAAAAAAApUU/JMH280OoLqg/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yDivFuqhtpM/VSx1kEcOAAI/AAAAAAAApUU/JMH280OoLqg/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“They fingerprinted the lock found in the trash beside the
place, nothing’s turned up. And I’m checking now, seems they’ve requisitioned
the video feeds from the cameras at the facility. Mr. Byrne says they are
dragging their feet. He needs to have his property returned before Friday or
else, and get this, he can’t return to ‘The Isle of Enchantment’.” Mike lightly
chuckled. “I asked him to come in. If he’s going to sell me a story, I’d rather
he try it in person.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright. And in the meantime, I’ll see about getting a copy
of the video from the storage unit. What’s the name of the place?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The Cube, it’s on 5<sup>th</sup> and Stein.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh, Victoria,” Derrick tugged her by the arm as she started for the door and pulled her off to the side. “Do you think it’s a good idea to leave Mike here alone to meet this guy?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5gXyUq2-kI/VSx1k3hWqKI/AAAAAAAApUc/i8CkfjfKqWQ/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p5gXyUq2-kI/VSx1k3hWqKI/AAAAAAAApUc/i8CkfjfKqWQ/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t see why not. Mike was law enforcement for 12 years.
He can handle himself,” she replied and again started moving.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, that’s not what I meant,” he whispered, noticing Mike
staring in their direction. “This is one of those things that um…it’s not
exactly something Mike <i>should</i> handle
by himself.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, do you know what we’re dealing with?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t think you’d believe me if I told you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Come on. Wolves, witches, vampires, trickster demons and dragons, I think my mind is pretty open! Try me!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Leprechauns,” Derrick blurted. Victoria’s straight face broke into laughter and she fell against the wall.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But, noticing Derrick’s expression remain unchanged, she choked back her amusement and leaned into him. “Wait, you’re serious?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vd-zxfdg0Q/VSx1uk4XNLI/AAAAAAAApUo/IdzGYkmztgw/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5vd-zxfdg0Q/VSx1uk4XNLI/AAAAAAAApUo/IdzGYkmztgw/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Told ya you wouldn’t believe me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well yeah but, Derrick, I mean, leprechauns? What makes you
think that’s what we’re dealing with?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because, well…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh my god! You know him! This Byrne guy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And he’s really a leprechaun?” Derrick nodded and Victoria
patted his chest and smiled in her partner’s direction. “Mikey, Derrick’s gonna
stick around and do the meet and greet with you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vic…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? It should be fun!” she winked, interrupting Derrick
before he could protest and rushed out the door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PG7N69O1gi8/VSx1wpz_0pI/AAAAAAAApUw/ROTRFAQzthk/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PG7N69O1gi8/VSx1wpz_0pI/AAAAAAAApUw/ROTRFAQzthk/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole Downing, please,” Victoria directed to the
receptionist behind the desk. She’d made a stop at the storage facility before
heading over to the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis office in Avondale. The place
appeared busy as several men and women dressed in black suits or shirts that
labeled them as feds hurried about. Papers shuffled loudly in every small
cubicle, the ringing of phones seemed almost incessant, and the sound of
multiple conversations at once droned on in her ears.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“One moment.” The woman picked up her phone and informed
Cole he had a visitor. And about a minute later, he came around the corner,
smiling as he saw her standing in the lobby.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jyYZgTUR6PM/VSx1xxI5gMI/AAAAAAAApU0/1u6BWSKOpAo/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jyYZgTUR6PM/VSx1xxI5gMI/AAAAAAAApU0/1u6BWSKOpAo/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cG0Ys3KAPVI/VSx16J8p8JI/AAAAAAAApVA/BcyuiV5Ln1c/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cG0Ys3KAPVI/VSx16J8p8JI/AAAAAAAApVA/BcyuiV5Ln1c/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vik!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey!” They hugged and he backed away quickly to look at
her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s wrong?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Nothing. Why would you automatically assume something
is wrong?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because as long as I’ve been working here, you’ve only come
to see me three times. And every time, something was wrong.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I just never wanted to bother you at work that’s all,” Victoria
sighed and tried to force a smile as the federal agent stood with his arms
crossed and a serious look on his face in front of her. “Alright, you got me. I
need your help tracking down some information.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QbEjyqHSKvM/VSx19M7uPaI/AAAAAAAApVI/M7MzqNnkjLQ/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QbEjyqHSKvM/VSx19M7uPaI/AAAAAAAApVI/M7MzqNnkjLQ/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“On?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“A possible serial killer who goes by the name ‘Monster of
Manchester’.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Manchester? Is this an international thing? Because the FBI
has no jurisdiction. No, wait, ohh…” Cole nodded as if coming to some
conclusion. “This is about the new boyfriend isn’t it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, I get it. When you first told me about him helping you
on a case, I did a little background check of my own.” Victoria’s gaze narrowed
at Cole and he shrugged it off, dropping his arms to his side. “What? Some
dubious character walks in off the street offering to help with a cold case; a
murder of all things? You’re damn right I checked into him.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KA48BWP9HHA/VSx19nY789I/AAAAAAAApVM/V8ZMDtNxP9M/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KA48BWP9HHA/VSx19nY789I/AAAAAAAApVM/V8ZMDtNxP9M/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what did you find?” Cole walked Victoria towards his
office, shutting the door behind her. Bending over towards his desk, he
retrieved a file from the bottom drawer and sat it in front of her as she took
a seat. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“There wasn’t much. I now assume because of his <i>long</i> history a lot of it was lost over
the centuries.” He paused and Victoria looked up at him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’ll be 418 in April,” she answered, understanding where
Cole was going.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Damn,” he whistled before returning to the file. “The only
things I could find was the mention of some boat crash in 1822 and an old
photograph of him at the 1878 World’s Fair in Paris. He took a picture in front
of the Statue of Liberty…but it’s pretty blurry.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5iu9-jRh78/VSx2EnCcuMI/AAAAAAAApVY/0LrulU-BOFk/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k5iu9-jRh78/VSx2EnCcuMI/AAAAAAAApVY/0LrulU-BOFk/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s because vampires can’t take pictures.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah it’s something to do with reflections or something. The camera distorts their faces.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So that whole myth is true? Derrick can’t see himself in a mirror?”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_Y2LRCy-Hk/VS0Q2wuUDnI/AAAAAAAApaM/0W7N0572IPE/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="572" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-x_Y2LRCy-Hk/VS0Q2wuUDnI/AAAAAAAApaM/0W7N0572IPE/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nope!” she replied, emphasizing the ‘p’.<br />
<br />
“So how does he comb his hair?”<br />
<br />
“That’s…actually a great question. I don’t know, I’ve never asked. Wait a second, if
the image is blurred, then how do you know it was Derrick?” Cole eyed Victoria
before flipping to the next page and showing her the image. “Oh.” Underneath,
it read ‘Johan Christensen, Derrick Constantine, & Victor Hugo circa May 1878’.
“Wow. Derrick knew Victor Hugo.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Who’s Victor Hugo?”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RdZsnGYiA7M/VSx2KOnctcI/AAAAAAAApVg/eZFnKwmJx4o/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RdZsnGYiA7M/VSx2KOnctcI/AAAAAAAApVg/eZFnKwmJx4o/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?” she asked gazing at him again. “<u>Les Misérables</u>,
<u>The Hunchback of Notre-Dame</u>?” Cole shrugged and Victoria moved on. “Well
anyway, I see why your search didn’t find much. You were looking for Derrick
Constantine; that was the mistake. Derrick didn’t exist back then. The time I’m
curious about, he was known as Edmund Preston Constantine.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He changed his name?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know people tend to do that for one of two reasons; either
they’re hiding from someone or they’re some eccentric celebrity.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Either way, do you think you can expand your search to
England and beyond? I’d really appreciate it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JqI8Wa65CRU/VSx2MVNeynI/AAAAAAAApVo/2iYxsQKcqEE/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JqI8Wa65CRU/VSx2MVNeynI/AAAAAAAApVo/2iYxsQKcqEE/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sure.” Victoria stood and Cole stopped her before she
opened the door. “Vik, if you really think you may be dating a serial killer,
don’t you think it would be wise to get a little distance from him?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I don’t want him to suspect I’m looking into him or
that I’m even suspicious at all; that’s why I came to you.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And I guess I don’t have to tell you how worried I am?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know, Cole. I’ll be careful.” She thanked him again and
exited the building. She felt buzzing in her pocket and quickly reached for her
cell phone. “Hello?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-adg3cE1_dJs/VSx2RalKY9I/AAAAAAAApVw/eShOc-vNfkk/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-adg3cE1_dJs/VSx2RalKY9I/AAAAAAAApVw/eShOc-vNfkk/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Vik</i>?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>So your beau has
graciously offered to take us to dinner to celebrate our opening. Meet us at
the Sabre Sushi</i>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sushi?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Yeah. You weren’t
here so I chose. Also, I met with our first client and you’re not gonna believe
what I have to tell you. See ya soon</i>.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ksYmvWLY_yM/VSx2VZFl8rI/AAAAAAAApV4/UNJ4gUEmdGI/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ksYmvWLY_yM/VSx2VZFl8rI/AAAAAAAApV4/UNJ4gUEmdGI/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfs0S42FUk4/VSx2Xvv53XI/AAAAAAAApWA/NVGQcmsNSgE/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rfs0S42FUk4/VSx2Xvv53XI/AAAAAAAApWA/NVGQcmsNSgE/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Vik!” Mike waved as she entered the restaurant. Pointing
towards the table, she bypassed the hostess and joined Derrick and Mike at the
table in the back. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sushi?” she again asked, taking a seat across from Derrick.
“Is there really no better choice for a celebratory dinner? What about a nice, juicy steak? It’s bad enough this place is right next door. I’ll be smelling it every day thanks to my partner.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mike said he tried getting a hold of you but your phone
kept going to voicemail so he decided on something <i>he</i> enjoyed. Where were you?” Derrick asked, his brow raising ever
so slightly. It was like he knew and the connotation made her shift in her seat but she did her best to maintain a poker face.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uPSQSsP00ig/VSx2iXa5A7I/AAAAAAAApWY/fT2FRmtsuUA/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uPSQSsP00ig/VSx2iXa5A7I/AAAAAAAApWY/fT2FRmtsuUA/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh…the storage place. I figured it would be a quick stop to ask the manager if he had a copy of the surveillance footage so I left my cell in the car. But had I known this would be the restaurant of choice, I’d have kept it on me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t worry about it, Vik, it’s not so bad. Besides, you can always order something not on the menu. I’m sure they’d be more than willing to oblige.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Right, something that’ll be cooked in the same grease, no thank you.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sushi, my dear Victoria, is served raw,” Mike grinned and
placed his menu on the table.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elAu5ZUb6eA/VSx2pNBsThI/AAAAAAAApWg/qZH83OdwgWs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-elAu5ZUb6eA/VSx2pNBsThI/AAAAAAAApWg/qZH83OdwgWs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hello and welcome to Sabre Sushi. My name is Calvin and I’ll
be your chef tonight. Can I start you off with drinks?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lemonade please.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Lemonade?” Mike asked stealing a quick glance at his
partner. “Ok. I’ll have a Guinness, black lager.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll have the same,” Derrick added. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And do you know what you want or do you need more time with
the menu?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll have the Makizushi,” Mike replied, smiling at
Victoria. “Also could you bring some California rolls and Sashimi for the
table?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Absolutely. And for you, Ma’am?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you suggest for a beginner?” she asked, still
staring at the names, most of which were hard to pronounce, on the menu.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She’ll have the Salmon rolls,” Mike ordered for her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JL7dCk6zB-o/VSx2spwDJ8I/AAAAAAAApWo/cOhkaAoEiOQ/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JL7dCk6zB-o/VSx2spwDJ8I/AAAAAAAApWo/cOhkaAoEiOQ/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Do I want that?” she asked, frowning at him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, you do.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s in it?”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Salmon, salmon roe, avocado, nori and bean sprouts topped
with a pat of mascarpone,” Calvin answered, his pen hovering over the pad in his
hand. “Is that alright?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know, what’s nori?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Seaweed.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you said salmon roe as in fish eggs?” Calvin nodded as Victoria
again frowned and Mike hid a smile behind his hand. “That’ll be ok, I guess.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And for you, Sir?” Calvin turned to Derrick. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll have the Uramaki, please.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Excellent choice. Your server, Danny, will be out shortly
with your drinks.” Calvin closed up his pen pad and disappeared behind a partition.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tao4SHmetIw/VSx2gO1PkDI/AAAAAAAApWQ/ILbhKnRX6Tw/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tao4SHmetIw/VSx2gO1PkDI/AAAAAAAApWQ/ILbhKnRX6Tw/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s Uramaki?” Victoria asked, placing her menu to the
table.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s salmon like what you have. They use Nova Lox and shrimp.
It’s rolled inside out with the sushi rice and topped with sesame seeds but has
avocado and nori as well.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And Makisushi?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Makizushi,” Mike corrected. “Salmon, rice, avocado, nori,
tobiko and pickled ginger.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Tobiko?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Flying Fish roe.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And you like this why?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because it’s delicious?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok. Well if nothing else, the restaurant looks nice. I am
wondering how fresh the fish is though,” she grinned, motioning towards the Koi
pond outside the door beside her. “So tell me about our first client.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVcIXsvCaEQ/VSx2djQ_8iI/AAAAAAAApWI/80IQ6CqoWs4/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BVcIXsvCaEQ/VSx2djQ_8iI/AAAAAAAApWI/80IQ6CqoWs4/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Aidan Byrne stands three feet tall, wears a green top hat
with a buckle and smokes a meerschaum pipe.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, not really…well he <i>really</i>
is three feet tall but…um, is he <i>really</i>
a leprechaun?” Mike asked, leaning over to whisper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know, Mike, I never met the man.” Mike glanced over
to Derrick who nodded in affirmation. “What did you get out of him about the
missing items?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He gave me a list of the stuff he said was taken, among
them, a chest of gold coins. One of which he has offered to give us for our
help in recovering the stolen loot.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Only one?” she asked, just as Danny came around with their
meals.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QmmGhpSt4IU/VSx2t68as-I/AAAAAAAApWw/puMdxVaRIRg/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QmmGhpSt4IU/VSx2t68as-I/AAAAAAAApWw/puMdxVaRIRg/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“One is all you’ll need,” Derrick replied. “One coin is said
to hold enough power of the Éire to
last the average human his or her entire life; good luck, great fortune and
health. Leprechauns are said to be mischievous little scamps who enjoy making shoes but they are neither good nor evil.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Great, just what we needed. Another trickster.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Another?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right,” Victoria nodded, picking up a slice of something
from the plate in front of her. “You don’t know. Um, remember Brad Devereux?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The asshole we questioned about the museum theft? The jerk
who hid behind his fancy lawyer.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, him. He’s a trickster demon, too.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course he is. I can imagine there were a lot of weirdo creatures working in the department too. I just got that feeling from some of them.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria cleared her throat but ignored Mike’s assertion. “Um,
what is this?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_LKQzkn2ygQ/VSx2z-UbC4I/AAAAAAAApW4/ubYrI4PVxN4/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_LKQzkn2ygQ/VSx2z-UbC4I/AAAAAAAApW4/ubYrI4PVxN4/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IxsZxWH2fMQ/VSx24YXgeMI/AAAAAAAApXA/ecuHFo6CqRI/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IxsZxWH2fMQ/VSx24YXgeMI/AAAAAAAApXA/ecuHFo6CqRI/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Sashimi, thinly sliced tuna.” Mike replied, dipping a piece
into his soy sauce before slipping it into his mouth. “Try it, you might like
it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mimicking Mike, she placed the raw fish into the sauce
before slowly bringing it to her lips. Her face puckered as the meat melted on
her tongue and her expression dissolved into a smile. “Wow! That’s not so bad.
Usually I like my tuna from a can.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well hopefully you’ll start to appreciate the finer
qualities of good sushi. Anyway, this Byrne guy is anxious to have his stuff
returned by Friday.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Any leads on the suspect?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ha! If you can call it that,” Mike laughed, and swallowed a mouthful of his beer. “He’s
tall and furry.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Furry?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9efP5xwyF9Y/VSx255wHe2I/AAAAAAAApXI/9JAiFlXoyBo/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9efP5xwyF9Y/VSx255wHe2I/AAAAAAAApXI/9JAiFlXoyBo/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Furry. And that was the only description I got. Although, it sorta felt like he wasn’t saying something. I don’t know if he just knew I was
looking at this entire thing skeptically or not but, he wasn’t fully
cooperating.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is there anything else we need to know about their kind,
Derrick?” Victoria asked, trying one of the salmon rolls on her plate. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The only other thing I really know is that they live on an
island that is off limits to most people who are not empathetic to their kind.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, that’s what the guy said,” Mike added, chomping down
on another of his rolls. “He called it the Isle of Enchantment. He said that
one of the items on the list is keeping him from returning home.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Which one?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CdjzA-wi2lw/VSx2-EJm_YI/AAAAAAAApXQ/oSnYXw7vOQM/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CdjzA-wi2lw/VSx2-EJm_YI/AAAAAAAApXQ/oSnYXw7vOQM/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNzp9fbVn5o/VSx3FUAA3wI/AAAAAAAApXc/W9YysGUA5RQ/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fNzp9fbVn5o/VSx3FUAA3wI/AAAAAAAApXc/W9YysGUA5RQ/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Didn’t say. My guess is this thing is either very valuable and he
is trying to keep it as hushed as possible or it’s extremely
illegal.” He sighed and scratched his chin. “By the way, how do you suppose a guy like that
found his way to us in the first place? I mean, we just opened and there are several other private
detectives in the city.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t know. Maybe it was luck,” Victoria giggled and
shrugged. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It just seems like coincidence. You know
something about this…other world and now our first client is um…a creature from
a children’s book.” Victoria thought a moment and looked over at Derrick who
seemed content with avoiding her gaze.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ve raised an interesting point, Mikey,” she responded,
keeping her eyes on Derrick.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJfk4XzNtSQ/VSx3E1QO7KI/AAAAAAAApXY/iAATlRlAlP0/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJfk4XzNtSQ/VSx3E1QO7KI/AAAAAAAApXY/iAATlRlAlP0/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiaswSrvBQw/VSx3Ia9EHVI/AAAAAAAApXo/f9CygfjU9A0/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yiaswSrvBQw/VSx3Ia9EHVI/AAAAAAAApXo/f9CygfjU9A0/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Maybe Aidan tried the other agencies and they all turned
him away. Maybe he called around and someone, a completely neutral someone,
told him about this new place and he decided to try his luck,” Derrick defended
himself.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Maybe,” Victoria repeated and teased a serving of some
unknown substance on the middle tray with her chopstick. “What’s this pink
stuff?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Pickled ginger.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And this green stuff?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Wasabi.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Are they edible or just garnish?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Edible,” Mike grinned, doing his best to keep a calm voice.
“You like spicy foods. Try a little of the wasabi.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvJCAgtTu_U/VSx3Q_mtQoI/AAAAAAAApXw/NPpskG26VVY/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xvJCAgtTu_U/VSx3Q_mtQoI/AAAAAAAApXw/NPpskG26VVY/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9no_wQlUSo/VSx3TFhs1qI/AAAAAAAApYA/vWIHXJS_2ps/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-d9no_wQlUSo/VSx3TFhs1qI/AAAAAAAApYA/vWIHXJS_2ps/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike and Derrick watched as Victoria took a much larger than
recommended portion of the Wasabi and slathered it on her salmon roll. Derrick
started to say something and Mike waved him off with a grin. Picking up the roll,
she sniffed it before shoving it into her mouth. And after chewing it three
times, Victoria quickly spat it out onto her plate. “Holy shit, what was that!”
she exclaimed, choking a little before chugging large gulps of her lemonade but finding the acidic
drink working against her. Reaching across the table, she snatched Derrick’s lager from
his hand and quickly inhaled the dark brew, finally calming her inflamed
membranes. “You son of a bitch!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Watch it! My mother is a saint,” Mike laughed.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah well she raised a devil! And you!” Victoria snapped,
turning her attention to the man sitting across from her. “Some protector you
turned out to be. Why didn’t you say anything?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I asked him not to.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Great. At least I know whose side you’re own.” Victoria
glowered. “I will never trust either of you again.” They finished their meals
and headed back to the office to work a little more on Byrne’s case. At around
10 p.m., they closed up for the night and Derrick drove Victoria to his place.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQv6__T_7HI/VSx3amALNAI/AAAAAAAApYI/nuPy3y5OZqo/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YQv6__T_7HI/VSx3amALNAI/AAAAAAAApYI/nuPy3y5OZqo/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-876CNxnDOZI/VSx3b0sXuzI/AAAAAAAApYQ/bWvvzszI8yw/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-876CNxnDOZI/VSx3b0sXuzI/AAAAAAAApYQ/bWvvzszI8yw/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not tonight,” Derrick sighed and stopped Victoria’s roving
hands as she teasingly slid them down his belly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Don’t tell me you have a headache! It’s medically
impossible for you to have a headache, you heal too quickly!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s not my head, Victoria, I just…am not…in the mood.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right! Nice try, Derrick, but I know you better than that
and apparently your body disagrees too. What’s really going on?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright, honestly I just uh…since we started seeing each other
we’ve been going at it almost nonstop.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I know. I call that ‘making up for lost time.’” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And that’s great and all. But I’m just afraid of breaking
my nice, shiny new toy.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XaqdmRKE39g/VSx3eHeu2bI/AAAAAAAApYY/NTn0cSGrsH4/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XaqdmRKE39g/VSx3eHeu2bI/AAAAAAAApYY/NTn0cSGrsH4/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5NPjxr-1T5A/VSx3ixR57zI/AAAAAAAApYg/BAa_VN9Y4Mo/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5NPjxr-1T5A/VSx3ixR57zI/AAAAAAAApYg/BAa_VN9Y4Mo/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, do I look broken to you? I can handle it, trust
me.” Victoria purred and rolled over on top of her vampire lover. Instantly she
felt his lie inch up her thigh and smiled as she possessed his lips in a tender
kiss. “And when I’ve had enough I’ll let you know…just don’t expect that to
happen any time soon.” Her fingers traced down his happy trail and she tugged
at the waistband of his boxer briefs, eagerly working to slide her fingers
beneath the cotton material.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick gripped her arms tighter in his palms, squeezing
enough to make Victoria whimper. “I said not tonight!” he nearly growled and
roughly pushed her to the bed. Anger briefly flashed in his eyes before melting
into an apologetic look. She quickly crawled away from him and was on her feet
before he could reach out and touch her again. “I’m sorry. Victoria, I didn’t
mean…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BP1vNq3r3J0/VSx3lvxOFzI/AAAAAAAApYo/Fpq6QFMGKEE/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BP1vNq3r3J0/VSx3lvxOFzI/AAAAAAAApYo/Fpq6QFMGKEE/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know what, Derrick? I don’t know what the hell’s gotten into
you lately, but I sure as hell am not about to let you take it out on me,” she
snarled and gathered up her clothes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’re leaving?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes. I think it would be better if I gave you some time to
yourself. We’re obviously not on the same page.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, I wasn’t trying to hurt you, that…that was
unintentional.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“All the more reason to give you space. Your head is
somewhere else! It has been for a while now and you refuse to tell me what is
going on like I can’t see that something’s up. The late nights, this weird need
to sleep, the secrecy about where you’ve been and what you’re doing and now
this short fuse. Hell, if I didn’t know any better I’d think you were cheating
on me! Not to mention this whole thing with Rowan.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-owOo89SRESg/VSx3othMdOI/AAAAAAAApYw/ys9x5phGahc/s1600/Screenshot-47.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-owOo89SRESg/VSx3othMdOI/AAAAAAAApYw/ys9x5phGahc/s1600/Screenshot-47.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s he got to do with it?” he snarled, tossing her
another look.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, you don’t see it? You haven’t touched me
since…since finding me with him. And I know you said it was that compulsion
thing and that I had no control, but…it doesn’t feel like you actually believe
that.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
He turned away from her gaze and gently rubbed at his
forehead as he swung his legs over the side of the bed. “Victoria, it’s not
you, ok? Believe me. I just…I have a lot on my mind right now. Don’t go.
Please. I <i>need</i> you to stay the night.”
He delicately caressed her hand in his and finally looked up into her eyes.
“Please?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pd_CqMyHjGM/VSx3sVJEvVI/AAAAAAAApY4/RQfN-PoAzZA/s1600/Screenshot-48.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pd_CqMyHjGM/VSx3sVJEvVI/AAAAAAAApY4/RQfN-PoAzZA/s1600/Screenshot-48.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yEsSmXHLj-I/VSx3vW4CI-I/AAAAAAAApZA/vygVCWpTNRQ/s1600/Screenshot-49.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yEsSmXHLj-I/VSx3vW4CI-I/AAAAAAAApZA/vygVCWpTNRQ/s1600/Screenshot-49.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
She sighed and her bottom lip slipped between her teeth as
she stared down into his puppy dog eyes. The man was good. He knew all the
right things to say; conveniently glossing over her mention of Rowan. “Alright,
Derrick. I’ll stay.” She slid down to the bed beside him and draped her arm
around his neck. Derrick’s arm wrapped behind her back and he smiled as he
pulled her closer towards him. “But under one condition.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Name it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’ll talk to me about what’s bothering you. Why the
sudden change in behavior?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s…complicated.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can do complicated, Derrick.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s a long story.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And we have all night.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“VICTORIA!” he barked again. “I don’t want to talk about it.
Now will you please just drop it?” Again his eyes flashed the faintest hint of
rage and combined with the glimpse of fangs she saw, it was enough to frighten
Victoria and she pulled away from him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLtNfbRQ444/VSx3ylpSU_I/AAAAAAAApZI/rTagYYt5z8A/s1600/Screenshot-50.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dLtNfbRQ444/VSx3ylpSU_I/AAAAAAAApZI/rTagYYt5z8A/s1600/Screenshot-50.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine,” she snapped and snatched her keys from the bedside
table. “Call me when you’re ready to talk.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria! Victoria, wait!” She stormed out of the room and
down the stairs as Derrick sat quietly trying to weather the impending storm. “Shit!”
he sighed loudly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Pulling up from the bed, he paced for a moment, trying to
cage the demon inside him that continued fighting its way to the surface.
Victoria was gone. His appetite was uncontrolled. The anger and hatred he’d
thought was no longer influencing his actions had taken over and was persuading
him to be the monster he had long fought to suppress.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wy1aEb1Ru60/VSx31Ipm-YI/AAAAAAAApZQ/Sn63UF6kScI/s1600/Screenshot-51.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wy1aEb1Ru60/VSx31Ipm-YI/AAAAAAAApZQ/Sn63UF6kScI/s1600/Screenshot-51.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tossing on a pair of pants, Derrick started down the stairs
towards his basement. Unlatching a panel from the wall beneath the staircase, he
set it to the side and cautiously slipped into the tiny space. The hallway led
a little ways deeper into the house before opening to an attached wall with a
small viewing window on one side. He opened the door and watched the dust laden
air swirl before stepping inside and locking the latch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The mere sight of the room produced a deep, unperturbed
sense of pleasure. A strange mixture of smells settled within the confines of his
nose—an invigorating metallic scent. The dark gray tile floors were gritty with
grime and smeared in indistinguishable
stains. The basement was dank. Not much air circulated the space and what
little that did had an acrid stench of rot. The brick walls held a thin sheen
of dust and, much like the floor, was tarnished with dark smudges. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hVw6dSLSVo/VSx35diSrZI/AAAAAAAApZY/fMWwZxgbOt8/s1600/Screenshot-52.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--hVw6dSLSVo/VSx35diSrZI/AAAAAAAApZY/fMWwZxgbOt8/s1600/Screenshot-52.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dxpKiQVdpBQ/VSx36Q71OtI/AAAAAAAApZc/gnddrJNRzZs/s1600/Screenshot-53.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dxpKiQVdpBQ/VSx36Q71OtI/AAAAAAAApZc/gnddrJNRzZs/s1600/Screenshot-53.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Cautiously, Derrick paced forward, stopping just in front of
a woman secured to the wall by a set of steel shackles. “Please let me go,” the
redhead whimpered as she heard him approach. “I promise I won’t tell anyone about
this. I just wanna go home.” Her wrists were red and bruised from struggling.
The makeup she wore ran down her cheeks in splotchy, black streaks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ioXRMhfPwoU/VSx3-BA7N9I/AAAAAAAApZs/wPCO--9dzbQ/s1600/Screenshot-54.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ioXRMhfPwoU/VSx3-BA7N9I/AAAAAAAApZs/wPCO--9dzbQ/s1600/Screenshot-54.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HsFvXCX02lk/VSx4Abl6ANI/AAAAAAAApZ4/k-IWhX-Wq2I/s1600/Screenshot-55.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HsFvXCX02lk/VSx4Abl6ANI/AAAAAAAApZ4/k-IWhX-Wq2I/s1600/Screenshot-55.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Moving closer, Derrick’s fingers found their way through her
long, disheveled hair, combing through the sticky, crimson stains. He pulled
her eyes up until the two locked gazes and grinned. “I have no doubts about
that. You’ll not utter another word to anyone ever again.” He dropped her head
and brought his fingers to his mouth. An immense feeling of joy arose from the taste
of the thick, red liquid. His lips broke into a smile, as fresh tears fell from
her eyes. Derrick laughed and lunged forward, snatching the girl from her chains. Insatiably, his fangs tore at her throat and
he gorged himself on her blood. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/05/54-stroke-of-luck-pt-2.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-84120373074797988052015-04-05T10:18:00.009-04:002024-03-07T21:41:41.557-05:0052: Strange Bedfellows – Pt. 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LoPxuqvcwAA/VP5W2e0YTYI/AAAAAAAAn6k/kZ-Im-Takpc/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LoPxuqvcwAA/VP5W2e0YTYI/AAAAAAAAn6k/kZ-Im-Takpc/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria?” Derrick shouted as he rushed through the house
in search of her. “Victoria!” The sounds of her yelling in distress over the
phone frightened him beyond belief and he just knew she was in the fight of her
life. Heavy footsteps pounded up the stairs as he ran to check the bedroom and
back down again. The scent of blood moved him towards the kitchen and he took
in the scene, stepping over shards of broken glass and blood. </div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Kneeling down, Derrick got a better smell of the crimson
liquid and bellowed in anger; it wasn’t Victoria’s but it meant someone was out to do her harm at the cost of their own safety. Dark scorch marks smudged
the walls and floors, places where she’d apparently set off energy balls and
were very telling of a struggle that took place in the kitchen. “She fought
back,” he sighed with small relief at the fact that she didn’t go down easily. </div>
<a name='more'></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YemSA2MwMnw/VP5W2qIEiWI/AAAAAAAAn6o/OK6cgh75Vy8/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YemSA2MwMnw/VP5W2qIEiWI/AAAAAAAAn6o/OK6cgh75Vy8/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hades limped from around the counter and collapsed onto the
floor beside him. His left side was slightly crushed; he had at least three
broken ribs. Blood oozed from his mouth, much of which Derrick determined
belonged to Victoria’s attacker. A flap of skin fell from his jowls with a
partial ink stain on it, a tattoo. Derrick lifted the chewed flesh and got a
better look at it. “Good boy. You got a piece of him!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XyX-C6JOvLI/VP5W2eUwFvI/AAAAAAAAn6g/iuXeRhqmZL4/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XyX-C6JOvLI/VP5W2eUwFvI/AAAAAAAAn6g/iuXeRhqmZL4/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Splitting his wrist, he held his trickling arm over Hades’
mouth and watched as the protective canine fully healed and sprang to his feet,
ready for action. He whimpered over his lost master and Derrick scratched his furry
head. “Don’t worry, Boy. I’ll get her back.” There was a familiar scent of
Alfred Dunhill cigars lingering in the air and he knew immediately who had
taken her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7z6FBZmaMA/VP5W-TGSvxI/AAAAAAAAn64/FAGsQeUzqrA/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u7z6FBZmaMA/VP5W-TGSvxI/AAAAAAAAn64/FAGsQeUzqrA/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The doors to Rowan’s vacation manor swung open with force as
Derrick waltzed inside, ignoring the three vampires posted at the desk as
security. Noticing Cort, another of Rowan’s sired, sitting in the den he
quickly started for him. “Derrick? Long time no see buddy how’s it b…?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dJwDlCCKGs4/VP5XA_AvtmI/AAAAAAAAn7A/B-Cl-bL_19o/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dJwDlCCKGs4/VP5XA_AvtmI/AAAAAAAAn7A/B-Cl-bL_19o/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Pj23D4XgQ0/VP5XHRsBO6I/AAAAAAAAn7Q/LUHdlRcXnbM/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Pj23D4XgQ0/VP5XHRsBO6I/AAAAAAAAn7Q/LUHdlRcXnbM/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Where is she?” Derrick growled, throwing the vampire
against the wall. Closing his hand around his throat, he extended his claws
until they sank beneath the man’s skin drawing blood and making him scream at
the burning the venom in his nails caused. “I will rip out your fucking throat
if you don’t tell me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What the hell do you think you’re going to accomplish huh?
If you think for a minute you’re going to get anyone to talk you’re crazy.
Everyone knows what Rowan would do if we did.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Rowan,” Derrick scoffed and tightened his grip until his
claws dug deeper into the skin of his throat. The man yelled again as Derrick’s
right hook found his jaw, bouncing it off the wall with a hollow smack. “Forget
Rowan, think about what I’m going to do to you right here, right now if you
don’t tell me what I want to know!” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xU3HRmZUu8U/VP5XBCaFBaI/AAAAAAAAn7E/7QvKYbZSuvE/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xU3HRmZUu8U/VP5XBCaFBaI/AAAAAAAAn7E/7QvKYbZSuvE/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjxmRF70xhc/VP5XMh2kQ9I/AAAAAAAAn7g/rpjKPvHGoLM/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cjxmRF70xhc/VP5XMh2kQ9I/AAAAAAAAn7g/rpjKPvHGoLM/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why do you care so much huh? You know Rowan! He’s only
doing what he needs to with the girl you promised him. Besides, by the time you
get to her, he’ll have her so turned out she’ll be begging to only satisfy his
every whim. Hell she’s probably already forgotten about you.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick’s fist rammed into Cort’s face again and again until
the man’s nose was twisted and his eyes were rolling into the back of his head.
Bits of broken teeth fell to the floor at Derrick’s feet and he shook Cort
within his grasp, bashing his head violently into the wall. “Say another
fucking thing about Victoria and I’ll feed you your fucking tongue you got me? WHERE
IS HE HOLDING HER?” </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILWgOvevIUo/VP5XL1RBShI/AAAAAAAAn7Y/YILDkOMHmgs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ILWgOvevIUo/VP5XL1RBShI/AAAAAAAAn7Y/YILDkOMHmgs/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria absently ran her hand across her face as she sat up.
The sound of music in the background alerted her to the fact that she was in a
public building and not a dank basement somewhere. The plush pillows folded
under her body as she moved and the coils in the mattress groaned beneath her
weight. The air around her smelled of cigars and cologne with a hint of
cinnamon. Candles burned nearby, an obvious attempt to mask the scent of the
heavy indicators that this was not a normal bedroom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PwctW-R2WV4/VP5XQVlXXKI/AAAAAAAAn7o/LI2J5yYgxYs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PwctW-R2WV4/VP5XQVlXXKI/AAAAAAAAn7o/LI2J5yYgxYs/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Welcome back, Luv,” a familiar voice with a heavy
English accent croaked and she struggled to open her eyes to see his face. “I
wasn’t sure if you’d planned to grace me with your presence tonight or not. I
guess Marcel hit you a little harder than I’d hoped.” The throbbing between her
ears pounded harder as blood rushed from her beating heart once memories of how
she came to be here flashed through her mind. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPq0_E4Q0kE/VP5XWKlK3EI/AAAAAAAAn7w/5JqRGyUQvII/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VPq0_E4Q0kE/VP5XWKlK3EI/AAAAAAAAn7w/5JqRGyUQvII/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria stumbled over her own feet as she tried to force
herself to stand and the large vampire who had attacked her moved quickly
towards her. “No!” Rowan waved the man off, making him back away from the
detective. “That won’t be necessary. Given the fact that she has yet to regain
her faculties the witch is no threat to us at this point. You can go.” Marcel
grunted at the blonde but did as he was told and abruptly started for the door.
More light and music flooded in as did a cloud of smoke as the man made his
exit and by the sound of it Victoria believed she was in a nightclub of some
kind but definitely not Dante’s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHlfraucg9Y/VP5XW6wAJ_I/AAAAAAAAn70/jU7i7CRZMgM/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHlfraucg9Y/VP5XW6wAJ_I/AAAAAAAAn70/jU7i7CRZMgM/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Her eyes shot to Rowan’s face and the twisted grin on his
lips. And suddenly a surge of fear rippled through her as the room became
deathly quiet with just the sound of her own heart beating wildly in her chest.
Neither of them said a word but Victoria’s curiosity of why they’d come for her
was piqued. And as her mind slowly became more lucid, she watched him closely
waiting for him to show signs of aggression or some cause for her to cast on
him, a spell…a spell…<i>a spell.</i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t bother trying to conjure up one of your <i>tricks</i>. I’ve warded this place to ensure
my safety,” he spoke, motioning towards the arcane crystals placed strategically
along the walls as he read her mind. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1I_sPdvlno/VP5XY4W8NlI/AAAAAAAAn8A/ct9kbEefWgU/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_1I_sPdvlno/VP5XY4W8NlI/AAAAAAAAn8A/ct9kbEefWgU/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ1KGT7Oir4/VP5XhBqkpvI/AAAAAAAAn8I/1j1xu5pkgEI/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AQ1KGT7Oir4/VP5XhBqkpvI/AAAAAAAAn8I/1j1xu5pkgEI/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why am I here?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She speaks!” he exclaimed and withdrew from his chair,
stepping closer to where she stood. Victoria did her best to clear her mind of
all thoughts as she eyed the room, visually formulating a plan. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What do you want with me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well now, that’s a very loaded question, Little Witch,” he smirked noticing her inch backwards as he gave her a predatory look. “But, Victoria, to answer your question, I want what Derrick promised me.”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And what’s that?” Rowan pointed at Victoria and she backed
closer towards the window.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Stepping back and away from the bed, Rowan grinned, running
his hand over his chin as he thought. “I figured my chum hadn’t told you. You
see…” he turned his back to her and the moment he took another step Victoria
shot forward, darting over the bed and headed for the door.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KNhQO6SYTz4/VP5Xh2RsVBI/AAAAAAAAn8M/-YZEtGMYnqs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KNhQO6SYTz4/VP5Xh2RsVBI/AAAAAAAAn8M/-YZEtGMYnqs/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Closet,” he stated without turning around, causing Victoria
to falter in her step. Like a flash, Rowan was behind her, pinning
her against the wall with his body while his hands gripped her wrists tightly.
“Don’t scream!” he purred against her cheek, gently rolling his forehead along
it as he moved to make eye contact with her. Victoria nodded compliantly as his
liquid blue eyes peered into hers and he smiled a sexy, seductive smile. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgxW0s3ibU4/VP5Xitjuj7I/AAAAAAAAn8U/ZG_aJMOYDnE/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HgxW0s3ibU4/VP5Xitjuj7I/AAAAAAAAn8U/ZG_aJMOYDnE/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Good girl. And ok, I lied. That <i>is</i> the door to the outside. You’re a clever one; get me talking and
comfortable whilst you were plotting on me. Maybe we do have more in
common.” Victoria’s chest heaved deeply as she stood in front of him and Rowan
allowed his eyes to pore over every inch of her before they came to a complete
stop on the pulse thumping in her neck. He could smell her, the sweet and
intense aroma of her blood and it was arousing. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2lHGr3Ig6w/VP5Xoc_3sMI/AAAAAAAAn8g/lOMH09J9O5g/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-d2lHGr3Ig6w/VP5Xoc_3sMI/AAAAAAAAn8g/lOMH09J9O5g/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan dragged himself away from thoughts of compelling her
into a calm but aware state that would allow him to feed from her and make love
to her if she submitted. Just one word or encouraging motion could make him rip
off her clothes and take her until her body was sore and she was reeling in a
state of pleasure that would keep her coming back for more. “My apologies for hurting
you,” he responded, finally finding balance on his bloodlust…for the moment. He
gently unhooked his fingers from around her wrists and backed away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2zc9AZ7irw/VP5Xxq21VfI/AAAAAAAAn8o/S1P8lYI0m4c/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2zc9AZ7irw/VP5Xxq21VfI/AAAAAAAAn8o/S1P8lYI0m4c/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please, allow me to properly introduce myself.” Bringing her
hand up to meet his lips, he kissed the visible vein between her middle and
ring fingers with a tenderness that sent chills through her body, “Count Rowan Grafton
and I am very pleased to make your acquaintance!” The quivering of her body excited him and
the scent of her fear enhanced her already alluring smell. “Please, understand that you
have no reason to be afraid. I admit that my methods may seem a bit aggressive
but I truly mean you no harm.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0bxML4wl7k/VP5XyAqvK_I/AAAAAAAAn8s/mK2WVBQqluw/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-o0bxML4wl7k/VP5XyAqvK_I/AAAAAAAAn8s/mK2WVBQqluw/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Then why send a man like Marcel to my home? You anticipated
some sort of resistance otherwise you wouldn’t need someone like him working
for you,” Victoria abruptly responded determined not to blink as she stood her
ground. Rowan grinned at her veracity, taking note of her anxiety as he moved
back again giving her room to relax.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“As I said, I was ensuring Derrick came through on his
promise,” he shrugged as if Marcel’s actions were of no consequence. “I cannot
be held responsible if the men in my employ become a little anxious whilst executing a command. We are demons; it’s in the nature of the beast. But I gave
specific instructions no harm was to come to you. Marcel will be dealt with
accordingly I assure you, Luv.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jG32Sac-B2w/VP5X0rNMPHI/AAAAAAAAn84/ZMKHnHkj1Sc/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jG32Sac-B2w/VP5X0rNMPHI/AAAAAAAAn84/ZMKHnHkj1Sc/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEACs-vUSg/VP5X9y1i8YI/AAAAAAAAn9A/LrJO1P7O-Es/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gPEACs-vUSg/VP5X9y1i8YI/AAAAAAAAn9A/LrJO1P7O-Es/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah right,” she huffed, folding her arms into her chest.
It was an act of stubbornness that drew an appreciative smile from Rowan. She was
tenacious; it was easy to see why his old friend was so drawn to her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please,” he bowed courteously and Victoria found herself
stepping away from the door without further coercion. “Like Derrick, I find you a
remarkable creature. And in due time I’m sure you’ll come to see my intentions
are the same as his. We both want to guarantee our survival and you’re the key
to doing that. The only difference is I know you to be ready for the days ahead
while Derrick continues to doubt your ability for reasons of his own.” <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtT4McN4khw/VP5YAHWzQMI/AAAAAAAAn9Q/L8wfWdzJ8Dw/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rtT4McN4khw/VP5YAHWzQMI/AAAAAAAAn9Q/L8wfWdzJ8Dw/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan grinned knowingly, a smirk she’d seen on Derrick’s
face many times. His tongue moved across his lips as he looked at her with
expectation, making her uneasy. But she ignored the way his eyes skirted up her
body again before speaking. “Derrick’s helped me through everything that’s happened over the past year and a half. He knows me and what I can handle and if
he thinks I’m not ready for whatever it is you’re talking about then I trust
his decision.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSid2-ck-Y/VP5YEKT-hUI/AAAAAAAAn9Y/LbXf6-Rrmsk/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qaSid2-ck-Y/VP5YEKT-hUI/AAAAAAAAn9Y/LbXf6-Rrmsk/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Trust? Yes that’s a word I’ve heard him utter in relation
to you once or twice before as well. Trust; that’s very important. But, how can you be certain that everything he’s told you is the truth? For all you
know he could have been manipulating you from the start, Princess.” The delivery of his
words brushed her the wrong way. Maybe it was the prestige in his voice, his
English accent resonating in her head with nefarious undertones. Or maybe it was just his personality, cavalier and entitled; reminiscent of his days in the royal court. Either way Victoria did not like the way he spoke about
Derrick or his implications about her.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuZcroM1p58/VP5YJwr15yI/AAAAAAAAn9g/9f1mM1j1mEw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MuZcroM1p58/VP5YJwr15yI/AAAAAAAAn9g/9f1mM1j1mEw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick’s not like that!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh no? Has he told you about the
Monster of Manchester?” Rowan growled as he closed the small gap between them
silently enjoying the obvious change in her breathing as he approached her. “Why
are you so scared? Surely my good friend Derrick must have told you about me
and how I saved his life! And if you can <i>trust</i> him, as you say, you should know there’s certainly no cause for alarm,” he
chuckled before walking across the room. “You know, Derrick is not the man you think he is, my dear. And it’s only a matter of time before you learn that.” Rowan peered out of the window, taking note of the stillness and checking for any signs of change. Derrick was expected soon, if he followed the clues he’d left that is. And when he came, Rowan wanted to be ready. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zJXKIaknyE/VP5YK7PrCCI/AAAAAAAAn9k/-D0kbARe6gY/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4zJXKIaknyE/VP5YK7PrCCI/AAAAAAAAn9k/-D0kbARe6gY/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well if you’re so sure he’s lying to me then why don’t you set the record straight?”<br />
<br />
“Because, Luv, it’s more fun this way,” his eyebrows wiggled and a wicked smile curved his lips.<br />
<br />
“Sure. Seems to me, you’re the evil and manipulative one.” Without a word, Rowan
turned and made slow strides towards her. He locked eyes with Victoria, slowly
backing her into the wall. It had been long enough and he was tired of
waiting to get what he desired.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
From the moment he first laid eyes on her, he knew they
would be here, alone together. There was a dangerous feeling; warning bells telling
him to stay away. But he needed this; he wanted to taste the blood that had
been calling his name since first seeing her in that bar. And now, finally
alone with her, he weighed his next move carefully, mulling over the risks of
not being able to control himself after sinking his teeth into her warm, soft
flesh. He feared the outcome of such an action; weakening her severely or
draining her completely. But her scent was too sweet, too powerful not to
succumb to it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6aCVSQp-C0/VP5YSw5ovpI/AAAAAAAAn94/3gx_yD_zgsM/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-b6aCVSQp-C0/VP5YSw5ovpI/AAAAAAAAn94/3gx_yD_zgsM/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
And with no one around to stop him, he could give in to the
need but only take enough to dull the intense feelings of desire that pushed
him closer towards her. Looking down at her, Rowan compelled her again as he
gazed into her eyes, silently warning her as he told her what he was preparing
to do. Victoria trembled within his arms but her eyes remained fixed on his as
he slid his cold hand along her stomach. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uNH4HRQC9aQ/VP5YVbLul3I/AAAAAAAAn-A/BeSiu_fY7Fs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uNH4HRQC9aQ/VP5YVbLul3I/AAAAAAAAn-A/BeSiu_fY7Fs/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goosebumps followed in the path of his icy fingers sending a
fiery, cold sensation all over her body. Roughly Rowan pulled the soft cotton
top she wore over her head, tossing it to the floor. Victoria shivered once
more as her breathing intensified with anticipation. No longer afraid of him or
worried about his closeness she couldn’t think of anything she wanted more in
this moment than what he was doing. Rowan looked into her consciousness and just as
he’d planned Derrick was not there and a sinister smile grew on his face. Running
his hand along her left breast, he traced the outline of her bra before
following the vein leading towards her nipple. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2bibcj0e9I/VQ40wC8BDjI/AAAAAAAAojc/Qe5pjkN4Neo/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l2bibcj0e9I/VQ40wC8BDjI/AAAAAAAAojc/Qe5pjkN4Neo/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
In one swift motion, he ripped her bra from her then lowered
himself, his eyes remaining focused on hers until he reached the desired vein.
Sucking the tender flesh of her breast into his mouth, she released a loud gasp
and her head fell back against the wall. Rowan pulled at her skin until a
bright red hickey formed beneath his mouth. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Releasing his lips, he straightened his back, forcing her to
look him in the eyes; eyes that had lost their normal beautiful blue becoming
deep red, lustful, and hungry. Moving again to the bruised skin he smiled provocatively,
allowing one of his fangs to graze the red spot. Blood seeped onto his tongue through
the small puncture wound that had appeared, sparking an instant reaction. And
like a thirsty man given just a single drop of water, he became ravenous,
pressing his lips against her breast harder bringing more blood to the surface. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LTJmDpk8yo0/VQ40wE6mtAI/AAAAAAAAojY/KJosBJpC-HQ/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LTJmDpk8yo0/VQ40wE6mtAI/AAAAAAAAojY/KJosBJpC-HQ/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan forced himself not to bite her, a battle he was
quickly losing at this point. His body ached for her; hot blood pounding
through his loins. Using the hand that wasn’t holding her against the wall, he
squeezed her breast to release more blood onto his tongue licking it up with
frenzied haste. Each moan she released fueled him more, Victoria was
practically begging him not to stop and he craved her reaction; to him feeding
and sex went hand-in-hand. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o52bQOcanrA/VQ40vqvd35I/AAAAAAAAojU/b0WYwYcOFmM/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-o52bQOcanrA/VQ40vqvd35I/AAAAAAAAojU/b0WYwYcOFmM/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
Every time she pressed her lips together to form the most feminine moan he’d ever heard he felt his cock ache and grow harder against his jeans and it made him cringe at the thought of Derrick having her. Someone so delicate and sweet should not be wasted on one of his protégés. He wanted her for himself, all of her; uncompelled as Derrick had accomplished.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ai1DOtxitXw/VQ405PDwAZI/AAAAAAAAojs/-AubC5LLoR4/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ai1DOtxitXw/VQ405PDwAZI/AAAAAAAAojs/-AubC5LLoR4/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Reluctantly Rowan pulled away from her breast to taste
another part of her body. His eyes dropped to her mouth analyzing the two plush
lips that curved just right, both full, pink, and soft. Anxiously he drew them
into a rough kiss and with her bottom lip tucked between his teeth, he bit into
it; too aroused to see passed the pain it might cause her. Pressing her deeper
into the wall, she screamed from the stinging as heavy footsteps thundered up
the stairs towards them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RV-E6cpL-3Y/VQ407Cr8JGI/AAAAAAAAoj0/lfRzCsHi-Rc/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RV-E6cpL-3Y/VQ407Cr8JGI/AAAAAAAAoj0/lfRzCsHi-Rc/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--IrUAyskrdY/VQ4071PgHrI/AAAAAAAAoj4/BLeEhfCFIxE/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--IrUAyskrdY/VQ4071PgHrI/AAAAAAAAoj4/BLeEhfCFIxE/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf9dYfopR1U/VQ40-9RwB9I/AAAAAAAAokE/jzfVQGGliqo/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jf9dYfopR1U/VQ40-9RwB9I/AAAAAAAAokE/jzfVQGGliqo/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan pulled away, licking the remaining drops of blood from
her mouth as the door swung open and he grinned at the vampire that entered. Derrick’s
eyes instantly fell on Victoria’s bare chest and the bright red mark on her
breast. His fingers curled tightly into his palms and he lunged forward with
the intention of killing Rowan where he stood. “You son of a bitch!” Victoria
finally found herself able to move and bent down for her shirt as the two men
wrestled on the ground in front of her. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VMpoNMJP4O8/VP5YswrjPZI/AAAAAAAAn_A/A3MwhVScNfU/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VMpoNMJP4O8/VP5YswrjPZI/AAAAAAAAn_A/A3MwhVScNfU/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick slammed his fist into Rowan’s face and the man
groaned beneath him before rolling and gaining the upper hand. Ramming one arm
against Derrick’s trachea, he pushed him back and against the wall before
rocking him with a few powerful punches of his own. “Is this what we’ve come
to?” Rowan barked between blows, plowing his fist into Derrick's jaw. “I mean, don’t get me wrong, I’m chuffed you’re so cheesed off but, do you <i>really</i> think you can take me? I MADE YOU!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick kicked his midsection with enough force to send Rowan
flying across the room into the dresser leaning against the wall. He came down
hard, holding his gut. Looking up he saw Derrick rushing towards him as he was
still reeling from the impact of the blow. Another knock to the jaw and blood
spilled from Rowan’s opened mouth as he fell back against the dresser once
more. <o:p></o:p>The scent of it made Derrick crazed and he hammered fist after fist into the man’s face drawing more. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5S20yIEZzx4/VP5YzffKpdI/AAAAAAAAn_I/gwN8a6jqZP8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5S20yIEZzx4/VP5YzffKpdI/AAAAAAAAn_I/gwN8a6jqZP8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You wanna know what I think, Ro’?” Derrick snarled, slamming his Sire’s head into the floor. “I…think…red…is…definitely…your…color.” More blood rushed to the surface of Rowan’s face and, determined to make him spill every drop, Derrick continued rocking him with one fist after the other.<br />
<br />
“Derrick?” Victoria called for him
trying to calm him enough to get him to back down but he was relentless. Rowan
groaned with every blow as more of his blood covered the floor beneath him. “Derrick!”
By the time he regained his senses and pulled away, his Sire’s face was a
mangled mess.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1v1zneX8Ow/YJCwpK3a_vI/AAAAAAABmGo/49G34Ss0UpkuuyOzhmU9Y4Fe7Oy9DcjxACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Screenshot-40edit.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1v1zneX8Ow/YJCwpK3a_vI/AAAAAAABmGo/49G34Ss0UpkuuyOzhmU9Y4Fe7Oy9DcjxACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/Screenshot-40edit.png" width="640" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZKickWLszM/VP5Y3136hnI/AAAAAAAAn_U/AHEKciFZP4M/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZZKickWLszM/VP5Y3136hnI/AAAAAAAAn_U/AHEKciFZP4M/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is that it?” Rowan growled, spitting a mouthful of blood to
the floor as Derrick climbed to his feet. “You have big balls coming in here!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, I’m amazed that I can even walk.” Derrick moved
towards Victoria and she glanced up at him in shame. Wordlessly he pulled her
into his arms, scanning her face and eyes to make sure she was ok. “You
compelled her.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JimLcMUZiSk/VP5Y8RcVgrI/AAAAAAAAn_g/r-_t2tFrf6E/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JimLcMUZiSk/VP5Y8RcVgrI/AAAAAAAAn_g/r-_t2tFrf6E/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well, I didn’t fancy her screaming her head off, Mate; at least not yet.” Derrick took a step forward and quickly felt Victoria’s hand against his chest, pushing him back. Rowan chuckled, spitting out another mouthful of blood as he propped himself against the fireplace. “Loosen up, Derrick. No need to get your knickers in a bunch. She’s your mission, not your property and don’t even get me started on this <i>relationship</i> of yours. You’re fooling yourself, Mate.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick looked down at Victoria and the concerned way she nibbled her
bottom lip and slowly backed down. “Touch her again and I’ll shove my hand
through your chest and rip out that dried up piece of beef jerky you call a
heart and roast it over your burning corpse!”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0-jWy3Wj8E/VP5ZDeBwgYI/AAAAAAAAn_w/MOYHqRqaeRI/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A0-jWy3Wj8E/VP5ZDeBwgYI/AAAAAAAAn_w/MOYHqRqaeRI/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Threading his fingers with Victoria’s, Derrick pulled her
with him out the door. Stopping in the hallway he gripped her tightly in his
arms and felt her body tense up. “Are you ok?” Derrick spoke to her for the
first time since seeing her in Rowan’s arms. Rubbing her cheek tenderly as she
nodded her answer, he growled in his throat thinking about that animal’s hands
all over his girl. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, no, no there’s no need for that. You had no control
over what you were doing, that’s what compulsion is. I’m sorry I didn’t get to
you in time, Victoria. I’m sorry I wasn’t there when you needed me.” Pain was
laced in his eyes as he looked at her, helpless and defenseless and yet refusing
to cry. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What does he want from me? What does he mean I’m your mission, Derrick? What is going on?” she asked, glancing back
towards the bedroom door.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“We…can…talk about that later. Right now my only concern is
you. Come on, let me get you home.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KNshzXZdxK0/VP5ZAB9YNdI/AAAAAAAAn_o/10-F6bSWFeQ/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KNshzXZdxK0/VP5ZAB9YNdI/AAAAAAAAn_o/10-F6bSWFeQ/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WLGDZMiY3OA/VP5ZF7eWwhI/AAAAAAAAn_4/-L83RVFISPY/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WLGDZMiY3OA/VP5ZF7eWwhI/AAAAAAAAn_4/-L83RVFISPY/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rowan watched from the bedroom window as Derrick escorted
Victoria from his property and smiled to himself. Their first meeting hadn’t
gone exactly as he’d planned but he was fairly pleased by the results. The
witch’s blood was as potent in taste as he had hoped and best of all he knew
how to get to his old friend if needed. “Do you want me to go after them?” Marcel
asked, mindfully watching Derrick as he waited for the elder vampire to
acknowledge him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWPKrxfFK3Y/VP5loq-1MdI/AAAAAAAAoAQ/0Z7l2ocXCKE/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FWPKrxfFK3Y/VP5loq-1MdI/AAAAAAAAoAQ/0Z7l2ocXCKE/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. Let them be for now. I got what I was after,” Rowan replied.
Turning towards the door he was suddenly and violently overcome by a powerful
seizure that knocked him to the ground.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Quickly Rowan turned on his back as the trembling in his
body intensified. Eyes rolling to the back of his head, his tongue flopped from
between his opened jaw as his head constantly pounded against the floor. The
only sounds he made were the desperate, unintelligible cries of pain as the
seizure tore through his body, paralyzing his muscles and wreaking havoc on his
brain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VHvkUlZE678/VP5ZHrKe6oI/AAAAAAAAoAA/wRNpUeF3hZs/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VHvkUlZE678/VP5ZHrKe6oI/AAAAAAAAoAA/wRNpUeF3hZs/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Rowan? Ro’?” Marcel cried as he knelt beside him.
He watched helplessly as his Master convulsed on the floor, flailing his arms
and legs as vicious shudders jolted through him. And just as quickly as it had
began it was over. Rowan sat up, gripping his head as terrible visions rushed
through his mind telling of an all out bloody massacre to come. “What the hell
was that?” Marcel asked once Rowan made it to his feet.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That was a preview of what our new, little friend can do.
Derrick may not know it yet but he’s in possession of a very powerful weapon. Put a call in to London. The Elders need to know this war may very well tip in our favor soon.”<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/04/53-stroke-of-luck-pt-1.html">Continue----></a></div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-48186386825475169982015-03-22T08:29:00.001-04:002021-05-01T07:27:25.981-04:0051: Strange Bedfellows – Pt. 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KliixhArfTI/VP03IoVjpyI/AAAAAAAAnzA/tRVVSEN-KZs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KliixhArfTI/VP03IoVjpyI/AAAAAAAAnzA/tRVVSEN-KZs/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGMaK-nirRk/VP03I_O3SdI/AAAAAAAAnzI/PO61_CWKzNE/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fGMaK-nirRk/VP03I_O3SdI/AAAAAAAAnzI/PO61_CWKzNE/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“His ability to coordinate complex investigations and work in
the many public outreach programs speaks volumes for his capabilities as both
an investigator and a civil servant. He is a 12-year
law enforcement veteran who has distinguished himself throughout his career and a commendable leader in the Avondale community.
And so, in recognition for his outstanding police service and going above and
beyond his call of duty, we award Detective First Class Michael Rizzitello the
Medal of Valor for his display of extraordinary bravery.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The entire room exploded into applause as many of the men
and women got to their feet in celebration. Mike wheeled himself up to the
stage followed closely by his partner, Victoria. Taking a look at the plaque,
he handed it to her and she pushed him closer towards the podium. The event had
been long coming. Several police officers and volunteers alike had been waiting
for the next awards ceremony to honor the men and women of law enforcement.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<o:p></o:p>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5yGGjv7M1M/VP03I9X5tjI/AAAAAAAAnzE/ZO916Qnt7yw/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J5yGGjv7M1M/VP03I9X5tjI/AAAAAAAAnzE/ZO916Qnt7yw/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
But after the publicity the convenience store shootout received, Police Commissioner John Davis needed to redirect the community’s position on the Avondale Police Department to a more positive one. The grand room was filled with the entire department as well as their family and several news and media outlets. Gourmet catering was ordered to provide the most exquisite dinner and wine services. And the affair all took place beneath the roof of the lavish Roxbury hotel. The city spared no expense.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xJuob_ZPU1o/VP03Spnnj-I/AAAAAAAAnzY/-Z6PKfLFcyU/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xJuob_ZPU1o/VP03Spnnj-I/AAAAAAAAnzY/-Z6PKfLFcyU/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Waiting patiently for the crowd to settle, Mike cleared his
throat before speaking. “I’ve never been any good at these things. And
quite frankly I didn’t come here expecting to have to give a speech. I was really
kind of hoping you’d give me the plaque, cut me a piece of cake and I could
roll on out the door,” he laughed and the crowd graciously joined in. “First of
all, I’d like to thank everyone for coming out tonight. We all know that each
and every person sitting in this audience who puts on those blues every day
deserves this award. We risk our lives daily for the betterment of this town and rarely ever hear ‘thanks’. I only got it first because I’m the most handsome,” he chuckled. “I
accept!” Once the laughter died down, Mike took a deep breath and wiped his
hand across his face in deep thought.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And secondly, I want to thank my partner who put up with me
for six years and has been much more than a friend to me. She’s like that stray cat you feed that never leaves,” he grinned up at her before continuing. “But, seriously, Victoria has been like a
sister. She’s always been there watching my back and completing the other half
of an amazing duo and I could not have asked for a better partner. For 12 years this entire department has been my family. And that’s why
tonight it is with a heavy heart that I announce my retirement from the Avondale
Police Department.” It was the day he had feared since he first learned of the
extent of his injury. Captain Mason explained that a large part of his job would
consist of sitting behind a desk all day and that meant no more interrogations,
no more trips to crime scenes and no more personal investigations. It was at
that point he knew his career as a homicide detective was at its end.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7foYc6dpRhQ/VP03TQNq2dI/AAAAAAAAnzg/wSEQ317qnU8/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7foYc6dpRhQ/VP03TQNq2dI/AAAAAAAAnzg/wSEQ317qnU8/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mike choked back his tears as Victoria’s hand slid over his
shoulder, balancing his emotions. He knew he no longer had a place with the
other detectives and could not imagine working without her support. And after
she told him of her plans to open her own detective agency he decided right then it
would be best to leave with her. His injury rendered him incapable of the many
things detectives often did yet Victoria offered him a position working with
her in the same capacity as he always had.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
And while the department asked that he stay on with the
detective’s unit, sitting behind a desk was not his idea of police work. He was
being swept under the rug with the other unspoken secrets of Avondale’s law
enforcement and refused to become another statistic or the department’s poster
boy for ‘equal opportunity.’ “It has been a wonderful and fulfilling 12 years
but I feel as though if I am unable to be out on the streets, I am incapable of
serving the people of Avondale as justly as they deserve. I would like to thank
Captain Edward Mason for his countless years of wisdom and mentoring as well as
the men and women of the Avondale Detective’s Bureau. And to the city of
Avondale, it’s been a pleasure serving you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s2xX-yiekQA/VP03TYyGxkI/AAAAAAAAnzc/v6fAlt_afc4/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s2xX-yiekQA/VP03TYyGxkI/AAAAAAAAnzc/v6fAlt_afc4/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x3LClKexJGI/VP03cWoS6hI/AAAAAAAAnzw/F2nLJ_KWzfI/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x3LClKexJGI/VP03cWoS6hI/AAAAAAAAnzw/F2nLJ_KWzfI/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It was a nice ceremony,” Derrick commented as he and
Victoria walked out into the chilly night air. “I mean I haven’t been to many
of these but it was nice.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, it was. It was sort of a sad conclusion to an amazing
career though. I don’t know. He seemed in good spirits tonight but deep
down I know he hates the way the department was shoving him behind a curtain
trying to hide what he has become. It’s scary to think that they can just use
you however they want and when you are no longer a capable member of the
team, they just shove you right out the door,” she sighed and leaned her head against his shoulder. Derrick’s arm quickly wrapped around her and she looked up at him. “Think we can walk a little faster. I know you haven’t noticed but, it’s a bit chilly out here and I left my coat at the hotel.”<br />
<br />
“Here take mine,” Derrick offered, unbuttoning his jacket.<br />
<br />
“No, I’ll be fine. The car’s just up ahead.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNzacD96isg/VP03dWT2EDI/AAAAAAAAnz0/OpyC-0o4cDY/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bNzacD96isg/VP03dWT2EDI/AAAAAAAAnz0/OpyC-0o4cDY/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria and Derrick walked a little quicker down the lighted
streets of Avondale. Dozens of late night shoppers and tourists filled the
nearby plaza, moving from shop to shop in search of sales. The midnight blue
sky was perfectly illuminated by thousands of tiny stars twinkling
overhead. Cool wintry air was coated in the smell of freshly baked pastries as they
moved along the sidewalk in front of the many storefronts. Small white
lights wrapped around the poles of the streetlamps and the rose vines added to
the romantic feel and beauty of the historic district.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is it wrong of me to admit that as I sat in the audience
tonight, all I kept thinking about was how great you would look in your dress
blues crawling towards me on your hands and knees?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick smirked as Victoria looked over at him and a tiny
smile parted her lips. “Well I haven’t worn my dress blues in over five years
Derrick.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mmm, too bad; although it doesn’t stop the myriad of thoughts still
flashing through my mind. Do you have any idea the number of possibilities we
could explore?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QQ2jsg_j2NY/VP03eWbiIwI/AAAAAAAAn0A/1vwlt-RmIq0/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QQ2jsg_j2NY/VP03eWbiIwI/AAAAAAAAn0A/1vwlt-RmIq0/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m starting to see the picture,” she grinned, pulling him
closer. The outline of his cock pressed against her thigh as he leaned against
her and she could feel it snake lower on her leg the more aroused he became.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I think I should probably get you home now,” Derrick
growled in her ear, feeling her lips tickle down his neck. Closing his hand
over hers, he yanked her towards the jeep. The two quickly climbed inside and
Derrick started up the engine. Leaning over, he brought Victoria towards him
and hurriedly consumed her lips. She moaned against his mouth, dipping her
tongue between his lips as his head tilted.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02LPwhSWq0s/VP03h6Ta1uI/AAAAAAAAn0I/hAwUmsRtPvY/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-02LPwhSWq0s/VP03h6Ta1uI/AAAAAAAAn0I/hAwUmsRtPvY/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdwxLvuX8LQ/VP03kEa3HsI/AAAAAAAAn0Q/mSBYjf7hOFk/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YdwxLvuX8LQ/VP03kEa3HsI/AAAAAAAAn0Q/mSBYjf7hOFk/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria crawled over into Derrick’s lap and pressed herself
deep into him. “Not sure I can wait for home,” she moaned and hastily pulled at the hem of her dress. With great effort she finally got his pants down his hips
far enough and they moaned in harmony as she slipped his dick between her warm
thighs.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ7yA06kDMw/VP03poxdasI/AAAAAAAAn0g/Vn4DEvrwsp0/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ7yA06kDMw/VP03poxdasI/AAAAAAAAn0g/Vn4DEvrwsp0/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Victoria leaned back against the steering column, blowing the horn as her ass lifted too high in the seat. They both laughed and Derrick’s arms wrapped around her, pulling her closer and away from the wheel. She guided her body on top of him, grinding her hips in a frenzied motion. The car windows quickly fogged up the higher her temperature rose and Derrick closed his mouth over her nipple, gnawing his teeth lightly against the stiff skin beneath the fabric. “Derrick,” she moaned and slid her fingers into his hair. Her hands gripped tighter as he pulled her harder, thrusting himself deeper inside her.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvie-GJ3Q80/VP03r5ZgEzI/AAAAAAAAn0w/xByyIl45zNU/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvie-GJ3Q80/VP03r5ZgEzI/AAAAAAAAn0w/xByyIl45zNU/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
He moved with her, their rhythm increasing. “Oh, Derrick!” Victoria could feel him throbbing inside her and she clenched her thighs tightly around him. She was teetering on the edge of an explosive climax and Derrick taunted her with that satisfaction, tickling her swollen bud and making her beg. “More, please, more!”<br />
<br />
And when it finally hit, her entire body convulsed on top of him. Derrick held her firmly, smiling wickedly as she rode out her orgasm. Warm tingles spread through her and her cries of pleasure caught in her throat, spilling out in unintelligible grunts. Derrick’s head fell back against the headrest as Victoria clawed at his chest and she felt the heat grow between her legs as he came inside her. Growling in deep, throaty moans as he filled her, Derrick bit down on his bottom lip to keep himself from yelling louder the way Victoria worked herself against him ensuring she got every drop.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4jnMKlSQh1g/VP03qcPzZhI/AAAAAAAAn0k/6bOzPN2L16I/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4jnMKlSQh1g/VP03qcPzZhI/AAAAAAAAn0k/6bOzPN2L16I/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She fell forward, resting her forehead against his as her breathing slowed. “Damn. That was great,” she exhaled and
sweetly caressed his face. Derrick kissed her gently as he nodded his head,
laughing at the exhilarated look on her face. She’d never appeared as beautiful
to him as she did now; smiling, breathless from love making and staring into
his eyes as if he was the only man in the world. There wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for her.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2iTXwqLkNM/VP03x6DOwHI/AAAAAAAAn08/estUk9SZSrA/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k2iTXwqLkNM/VP03x6DOwHI/AAAAAAAAn08/estUk9SZSrA/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
His heart was brimming with affection. He adored this woman
and the more he was around her, the more he came to realize she felt the exact same
way. “I love you, Victoria,” he
sighed as he hugged her closer, tenderly stroking the strands of wayward hair
from her forehead. Dozens of thoughts emerged in her mind as his words
resounded in her head. His fingers curled along her back, dancing over her
spine as he continued listening to the sound of her heart and the shallowness of
her breath.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3A-_CNDEUp8/VP03yLDmSSI/AAAAAAAAn1A/l1KwkYOJAr4/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3A-_CNDEUp8/VP03yLDmSSI/AAAAAAAAn1A/l1KwkYOJAr4/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Love me? He said he
loves me? What? Do I say it back? No, I can’t say it back. But I should say
something right? Crap this is bad, this is so bad</i>. Victoria nibbled on her
lips as she began to withdraw from his lap. Pulling her dress down her hips, she
fixed her clothing as she listened to his voice profess his love in her head. <i>Did he mean it? Does he expect to hear it
back? Do I feel the same way? Why would he say that? Things were going so well.
Ugh! </i><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4p6Hyljji0/VP03x0Cv1GI/AAAAAAAAn04/S7GEwkQmIcM/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r4p6Hyljji0/VP03x0Cv1GI/AAAAAAAAn04/S7GEwkQmIcM/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s ok, Victoria,” Derrick’s voice erupted beside her,
shattering her thoughts and the silence that had begun to seep into every
corner of the vehicle. “You don’t have to say it back.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” she asked, looking over at him slightly surprised by
his remark.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t need validation to know how you feel about me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick, are you listening to my thoughts?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well yeah, I mean…a little, but only because your bracelet changed. I
wanted to make sure you were ok.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh my god!” she exclaimed and threw open the
passenger side door.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZjXje29fFU/VP037Pmn3BI/AAAAAAAAn1Y/puaF3lz14mo/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zZjXje29fFU/VP037Pmn3BI/AAAAAAAAn1Y/puaF3lz14mo/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria!” Derrick shouted after her before fixing his pants
and jumping out of the jeep himself. “Wait! Where are you going?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Anywhere but here!” she tossed over her shoulder, walking
faster as she heard his feet crunching over snow directly behind her.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, stop, please!” he pleaded, grabbing her by the
arms to hold her in place. “What’s wrong?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What’s wrong? What’s wrong? Really, that’s what you ask?”
she growled, throwing her hands over her head in frustration. “Derrick, it’s
not fair that you have direct insight into how I feel 24/7 while I’m playing
the guessing game with you!”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, I told you if you wanted to know my thoughts just
ask.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P2W6Srzmdcw/VP038FS-NjI/AAAAAAAAn1c/tRx4EclVkbk/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P2W6Srzmdcw/VP038FS-NjI/AAAAAAAAn1c/tRx4EclVkbk/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjuIKaAw1x0/VP04CkgNGSI/AAAAAAAAn1o/38XMATs02c8/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tjuIKaAw1x0/VP04CkgNGSI/AAAAAAAAn1o/38XMATs02c8/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“BUT YOU DON’T! And it’s not about that, Derrick. Normal
relationships aren’t like this. There’s an expectation of privacy even when two
people share intimacy. I don’t like you going into my head whenever you want
and using it against me! It’s not right! You have no right!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry, Victoria. I wasn’t trying to. Now will you come
back to the car? It’s snow…”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You can’t take away my choice of expressing myself to you
by violating my privacy, Derrick. It’s not fair and I don’t like having to
answer to something that I am clearly not ready to talk about.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, I’m sorry. I only wanted to make sure you were
ok. The last time your bracelet lit up like that you were being attacked.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well there was obviously no psycho serial killer in the car with us, Derrick!”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-St10LUFzBUI/VP04MlGZGXI/AAAAAAAAn2E/mQD7-a8Ouqw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-St10LUFzBUI/VP04MlGZGXI/AAAAAAAAn2E/mQD7-a8Ouqw/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“I know that, Victoria. I just wanted to see where your head was.” He paused a moment and narrowed his gaze at her. “Is being in love really as bad as a life or death situation to you?”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“DERRICK!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry! I’m sorry, Victoria. That’s not what I…I didn’t mean to violate your privacy. But you have to know I’m not like those other guys you’ve dated. I care about you, Victoria, and I only want to make sure you’re safe.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You just did it again! Derrick, you can’t do that! God! How
do you not understand this? And ok yes, I’ve had really shitty relationships in
the past that may have messed with me a little but I know the difference
between then and now, Derrick. I know what I feel for you I’ve never felt
before and admittedly it scares me ok? But that does not give you the right to
use your…old man thing against me to figure me out!”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1drIgnzaPIs/VP04C2K5_xI/AAAAAAAAn1s/EfC0tEZP-9g/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1drIgnzaPIs/VP04C2K5_xI/AAAAAAAAn1s/EfC0tEZP-9g/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Old man thing?”<br />
<br />
“You know, the ‘v’ word,” Victoria whispered, looking around at the passersby. “Like you said you can just ask. And when I get to the point of saying ‘I love you’ trust me you’ll be the first to know.”<br />
<br />
Derrick leaned back with his arms folded in front of him and
a smile on his face. Victoria’s ranting was slightly amusing and the way she
was driving in her point was cute. Even when she was trying to be angry with
him he could tell it was love. He watched the colors on her bracelet and the
way her face lit up with excitement and obvious affection as she talked about
her feelings for him. It was why he never had to hear it back. He knew it by
the touch of her fingers when she held him and the taste of her lips when she
kissed him.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1mrwGjluxo/VP04L-XM8lI/AAAAAAAAn2A/okZy2slSaDA/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o1mrwGjluxo/VP04L-XM8lI/AAAAAAAAn2A/okZy2slSaDA/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Us6w-rH3Hsc/VP04UETDktI/AAAAAAAAn2Y/by908oKw1bc/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Us6w-rH3Hsc/VP04UETDktI/AAAAAAAAn2Y/by908oKw1bc/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“And I mean I do care about you, Derrick, I do. But bad
things happen when I say things like that. It ends relationships and I don’t
want that to happen between us. I want us to last; I need us to.” Slowly he
moved closer, pulling Victoria into his arms. She looked up at him, locking her
arms around his back. He could feel her warm breath on his face and he smiled
down at her once she’d settled against him. “I love you too, Derrick,” she
whispered weakly against his chest. “Just please,” she sniffled and tugged at
the fabric of his coat. “Please don’t break my heart.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, Victoria, I wouldn’t dream of it.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JQGNWzRMRc/VP04WSNwWiI/AAAAAAAAn2g/duQQG8aLG9w/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1JQGNWzRMRc/VP04WSNwWiI/AAAAAAAAn2g/duQQG8aLG9w/s1600/Screenshot-29.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The drive to her place was all a blur as she lay beneath
Derrick, straining against his body while he pushed into her with a gentle
thrust. Derrick cupped one of her breasts in his hands, the other slid down
to hold the soft skin of her ass. Guiding her gently into the pillows, his mouth
closed over one of her tight nipples, sucking lightly as he flicked it with his
tongue. Her sighs of pleasure were music to his ears. The gasping sobs she made
when he slid deeper inside her stirred him more and he replayed the last thing
she said to him before he tore through the streets to get her here.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria held her breath as she bucked beneath him and he
pressed her down gently with his hands, a tender suggestion that he wanted to
take this slow. He guided himself deeper into her, penetrating heat into her
liquid warmth and she gasped. The intensity was different as he watched her
body leisurely sway and rock against the sheets. Tonight, Derrick’s normally
wild abandon had taken a back seat but as the silken hot walls of her sex
spasmed around him, he fought to control the urge to plow into her until her
body became sore from pleasure. “Do me a favor,” he groaned above her as he
slowly pushed into her again.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kzb19h4JhhY/VP04WnABJ2I/AAAAAAAAn2k/OviOZjLlt8A/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Kzb19h4JhhY/VP04WnABJ2I/AAAAAAAAn2k/OviOZjLlt8A/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WhJv69acda4/VP04bovr15I/AAAAAAAAn2w/LMAnI-FvV9s/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WhJv69acda4/VP04bovr15I/AAAAAAAAn2w/LMAnI-FvV9s/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria looked up into his eyes as he leaned closer,
panting at the exquisite feeling of being absolutely full. “Anything,” she
sighed and brushed a lock of hair from his forehead.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Breathe for me,” he moaned into her ear and she took a
breath, following the rhythm of his hips and making a conscious effort to stay
within their combined pace. Bending down, he took her mouth for a brief,
heart-stopping kiss before pulling over her and slowly slipping back into the
rhythm they’d created.<br />
<br />
<o:p></o:p>Every nerve ending rippled with the most ultimate sensation as the building of heat streaked through her. Victoria gasped, her eyes
widening in shock as she felt him pull back and surge forward again, harder,
faster sending arcs of lightning tearing down her spine. Never had she imagined feeling so high from this much pleasure; having never
made love with someone she truly cared for. It was frightening losing control
in this way and at the same time she felt exhilaration from giving herself to
him. </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy-mMe20ZW0/VP04gbKhtYI/AAAAAAAAn24/0FunEJ8Yk7E/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qy-mMe20ZW0/VP04gbKhtYI/AAAAAAAAn24/0FunEJ8Yk7E/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria felt the difference in his motions deep inside her.
Those three little words sparked a change that encouraged Derrick to prove
himself in ways she’d never felt before. Tears ran down her face. She was no longer afraid to love
him; to give him complete control. She’d made that leap of faith and given
herself to him with no uncertainties. “I love you, Derrick,” she whispered
against his cheek as she felt the fire building in her stomach once again.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
He looked down at her, sensuality and fierce intent behind
dark lustful eyes as he stared at his beautiful, fragile lover. His gentle
strokes gave way to a harder, faster pounding tempo that took her breath away. Victoria
dug her nails into his back, anchoring herself against the relentless force as
Derrick rammed into her, lost in the throes of passion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLxBffv70Y0/VP04ghQBIHI/AAAAAAAAn28/3lOYgETopeo/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wLxBffv70Y0/VP04ghQBIHI/AAAAAAAAn28/3lOYgETopeo/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tense burning heat stretched her to a breaking point and beyond as she cried for release of the all consuming fire. Harder and harder he drove into her, velvet over steel between her moist, warm thighs riding her faster, penetrating so deep. Every one of her senses amassed at the pleasure between her legs and centered on the thick, rigid force driving deep into her body over and again. “Derrick.” His name vibrated against her tongue, a helpless cry from her chaotic mind, her body no longer her own.<br />
<br />
He felt impossibly huge inside her, thicker than she’d known
before and the deeper he pushed the more desperate she became for release. “Say
it…” Derrick grunted and drove himself faster between her legs with
unrestrained self-indulgence. “Say it again,” he urged nearly growling over her,
his voice heavy with lust pouring liquid heat on her senses, warming her from
the inside out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qIVBVb4mE7Y/VP04isQ4BcI/AAAAAAAAn3I/4cLuDZ4sG1I/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qIVBVb4mE7Y/VP04isQ4BcI/AAAAAAAAn3I/4cLuDZ4sG1I/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xcdxBhebgeA/VP04qDEh37I/AAAAAAAAn3Q/grT6gb-qxuQ/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xcdxBhebgeA/VP04qDEh37I/AAAAAAAAn3Q/grT6gb-qxuQ/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I love you, Derrick,” she moaned as his cock swelled even more in her tight channel while he stroked himself inside her. His fingers tightened around hers, his eyes changing, darkening. A firestorm of pleasure burned deep in her womb, spreading through her thighs as her lover lost all self-control. Leaning down to kiss her gently, Derrick’s grunt turned into a full-blown roar against her lips as he felt the building pressure in his loins explode and he emptied himself inside her in a flood of molten lava that trickled down her leg. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iXviaootV6w/VP04qZd6k-I/AAAAAAAAn3U/-SFEKOjlKq0/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iXviaootV6w/VP04qZd6k-I/AAAAAAAAn3U/-SFEKOjlKq0/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Collapsing on the bed beside her, he pulled Victoria against him, watching as her eyes slowly closed and she fell into a deep sleep against his chest. Hours passed before Derrick’s eyes popped open and he heard the faintest of whispers sweep in with the chilled night air through the partially opened window.<br />
<br />
Carefully he pulled his arm from beneath Victoria’s head.
She moaned sleepily and rolled over as he stood from the bed. Derrick made his
way downstairs and quietly opened the backdoor. <o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tLPR_GW6VYE/VP04xlYaF7I/AAAAAAAAn3o/Z5kOor2aeU8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tLPR_GW6VYE/VP04xlYaF7I/AAAAAAAAn3o/Z5kOor2aeU8/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THHYEUQjPxc/VP04yYIqN5I/AAAAAAAAn3s/vrS-915vBGM/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-THHYEUQjPxc/VP04yYIqN5I/AAAAAAAAn3s/vrS-915vBGM/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“Where are you, Rowan? I know you’re here.” The sound of his
footsteps fell behind him and Derrick turned to face his Sire. “Let me guess,
the Elders sent you again.”<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Indeed. They are worried, Mate. They lost communication
with you and you have still not delivered the girl. The Elders are beginning to
doubt your resolve! What is going on, Derrick?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The same as it was before. She’s not ready.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Palatino Linotype",serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">“BOLLOCKS!”</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 16.8667px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zO5o8KNrcIU/VP04684BJfI/AAAAAAAAn4M/ADqbcL98evU/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zO5o8KNrcIU/VP04684BJfI/AAAAAAAAn4M/ADqbcL98evU/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SIstCiebPrM/VP046S6AFuI/AAAAAAAAn4I/JMUIOTMaNdw/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SIstCiebPrM/VP046S6AFuI/AAAAAAAAn4I/JMUIOTMaNdw/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria’s skills rival anything I’ve ever seen before. With the right motivation and practice she can become the most powerful weapon in our arsenal. She just needs time to get there, Rowan. What do you want me to say?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How about the truth? For the past eleven days I have watched her and I know for a fact she is more than capable of doing what needs to be done. Now both our arses are at stake here and unlike you I don’t have the warm comforts of a witch’s thigh to keep me safe!”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtZwZW6rmPU/VP04y0hlS9I/AAAAAAAAn30/qPEUHb3_vyM/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NtZwZW6rmPU/VP04y0hlS9I/AAAAAAAAn30/qPEUHb3_vyM/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JXwWkYkVLUY/VP045AcwwoI/AAAAAAAAn4A/XPHH8-1SaWo/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JXwWkYkVLUY/VP045AcwwoI/AAAAAAAAn4A/XPHH8-1SaWo/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Derrick inched closer towards Rowan with a snarl curling his
lip but the older vampire simply smiled. “You made promises, Derrick. Promises
you had better keep if you hope to hear her scream your name again. It is time
to man up! Stop dawdling and deliver her where she needs to go or I will bloody
well do it for you.” He turned and quickly disappeared through Victoria’s
backyard and Derrick stood a moment longer, staring off into the distance.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARQ_8Nyuys0/VP04_ulOYSI/AAAAAAAAn4Y/SEngc9kKzfE/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARQ_8Nyuys0/VP04_ulOYSI/AAAAAAAAn4Y/SEngc9kKzfE/s1600/Screenshot-44.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria moaned as he slipped back beneath the covers with
her and instantly she wiggled her ass into him as he draped his arm around her. “Mmm, there you are. I
thought you’d gone home.”<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“No, Baby, I’ll never leave your side,” he whispered in her
ear and gently pressed a kiss into her temple. “You’re safe with me, Victoria,
I promise.” She cozied herself against him and Derrick continued staring at the
ceiling as he felt her drift back to sleep.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-goG3n2o-zHo/VP05D0mDmAI/AAAAAAAAn4o/b8JBUhfsr9M/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-goG3n2o-zHo/VP05D0mDmAI/AAAAAAAAn4o/b8JBUhfsr9M/s1600/Screenshot-45.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The next morning Victoria busied herself by browsing through
real estate ads. With plans to begin working as early as spring, she had to
ensure all of her ducks were in a row. That meant getting all of the correct
licenses, buying insurance for herself and her employee but most importantly
choosing the right location. Derrick had graciously offered to bankroll her
entire operation and Victoria eagerly accepted. She squealed in excitement with
the thought of owning her very own detective agency and scrolled along the websites
for lots for sale or lease.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqMxu7Aichs/VP05DMAzKmI/AAAAAAAAn4g/x2xyBXeigaI/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LqMxu7Aichs/VP05DMAzKmI/AAAAAAAAn4g/x2xyBXeigaI/s1600/Screenshot-46.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
She pulled up from the couch to refresh her drink and heard a small tapping sound at the front door. Victoria sat her glass on top of the kitchen counter and slowly made her way over to the alarm. Smiling when she saw him perched on the stoop, she punched in the code for the system turning it off.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick! What did I tell you about this stupid bird form of yours? You really want me to yell at your ass huh?” Victoria asked opening the door and kneeling down in front of the large black bird positioned just at her threshold. “The silent treatment is it then? Not even a squawk for old time’s sake?”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0wvrVSKbSA/VP05F1kU7bI/AAAAAAAAn4w/YiCEFWxxrPw/s1600/Screenshot-47.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x0wvrVSKbSA/VP05F1kU7bI/AAAAAAAAn4w/YiCEFWxxrPw/s1600/Screenshot-47.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
The bird turned its tiny head as it listened to her speak
and she laughed. “Ah, you’re being difficult, Mr. Constantine. Come on, it’s ok.
I promise no more cereal and peanuts.” She smiled and moved her arm towards him
for him to attach himself. The bird tried to fly but only got as far as a hop
as it entered the house and started towards Victoria.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
A spot of blood dripped to the floor and she gasped noticing
the tear in its wing. “Oh my god, Derrick, you’re hurt! No wonder you’re acting
weird. Hold on, I’ll get the first aid kit.” She exclaimed and hurried towards
the kitchen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kyKwUTVz8gg/VP1GB8l3PGI/AAAAAAAAn6I/-ORVN9NHZTQ/s1600/Screenshot-48.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kyKwUTVz8gg/VP1GB8l3PGI/AAAAAAAAn6I/-ORVN9NHZTQ/s1600/Screenshot-48.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rummaging through the cabinets for a clean towel and the
first aid kit, she wet one end beneath the spigot and grabbed a bowl for warm water. “I don’t know much about this shift thing but I’m just going to assume that an
injury prevents you from changing back?” The incessant ringing of her cell
phone prompted her to growl in frustration, drop the rag into the bowl and
answer. “Hello?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuhI8-eKt-Q/VP1Cwe7JsmI/AAAAAAAAn58/Z_l8J981-NE/s1600/Screenshot-49.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wuhI8-eKt-Q/VP1Cwe7JsmI/AAAAAAAAn58/Z_l8J981-NE/s1600/Screenshot-49.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Hey I’m just calling to tell you I got caught up with Jake but I’m on the way now. I didn’t want you to worry that I stood you up or something. I picked up a bottle of merlot from one of my favorite merchants; it’s kind of lame but I figured it would be a nice gesture for not calling sooner.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Derrick?” Victoria asked in surprise and glanced at the
caller ID for a moment.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Uh yeah, who else
would it be?</i>”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldGa__RT8sw/VP05NmpFIrI/AAAAAAAAn48/ZTQVQoG0dnw/s1600/Screenshot-50.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ldGa__RT8sw/VP05NmpFIrI/AAAAAAAAn48/ZTQVQoG0dnw/s1600/Screenshot-50.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo7zqHnYnR0/VP05TXEEOpI/AAAAAAAAn5Q/S-8-Rx3SHFQ/s1600/Screenshot-51.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vo7zqHnYnR0/VP05TXEEOpI/AAAAAAAAn5Q/S-8-Rx3SHFQ/s1600/Screenshot-51.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
“But if you’re not here then who’s the raven I…just…invited…inside…” she asked leaning back and watching in shock as the raven turned into a large, muscle-bound vampire with glowing red eyes.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>You what? Someone’s
there? Victoria, get up the stairs, now!</i>” The creature rushed towards
her, Victoria dropped the phone and screamed as he reached for her, scraping
his long nails against her arm as she dove out of the way. “<i>Victoria? Victoria! Hold on, Baby, I’m
almost there!</i>” <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/04/52-strange-bedfellows-pt-4.html">Continue----></a></div>
</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-38554612630720814352014-11-18T14:10:00.000-05:002022-03-12T20:28:54.219-05:00Texting!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This is what boredom looks like.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><u>From Derrick to Victoria:</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQtfAaEjHo0/VGuCvaG8OuI/AAAAAAAAm1o/n4J-B9Fk2Os/s1600/iphone14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cQtfAaEjHo0/VGuCvaG8OuI/AAAAAAAAm1o/n4J-B9Fk2Os/s1600/iphone14.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pwMbN3enVRs/VGp5kRLMFJI/AAAAAAAAmy4/vXMGhuPVVjE/s1600/iphone5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pwMbN3enVRs/VGp5kRLMFJI/AAAAAAAAmy4/vXMGhuPVVjE/s1600/iphone5.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oVUDj_3b4Y0/VGp_Mgnw5NI/AAAAAAAAmzY/6TYlWzvXfps/s1600/iphone7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oVUDj_3b4Y0/VGp_Mgnw5NI/AAAAAAAAmzY/6TYlWzvXfps/s1600/iphone7.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MsSMqJxu_F0/VGqHQHMHjGI/AAAAAAAAmzs/THkvFf7c9uM/s1600/iphone10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MsSMqJxu_F0/VGqHQHMHjGI/AAAAAAAAmzs/THkvFf7c9uM/s1600/iphone10.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucM2ah1Ixi0/VGt5D33KnaI/AAAAAAAAm0U/Im8nolxKcj8/s1600/iphone11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ucM2ah1Ixi0/VGt5D33KnaI/AAAAAAAAm0U/Im8nolxKcj8/s1600/iphone11.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<u><b>Mistaken texts - From Cole to Derrick:</b></u></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T_TrftUnDDo/VGp5j5s0XdI/AAAAAAAAmys/W4dqEFlORWw/s1600/iphone4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T_TrftUnDDo/VGp5j5s0XdI/AAAAAAAAmys/W4dqEFlORWw/s1600/iphone4.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGxmb_bcIj0/VGuRMLz_vhI/AAAAAAAAm14/x6pHf3Mvs6Q/s1600/iphone15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tGxmb_bcIj0/VGuRMLz_vhI/AAAAAAAAm14/x6pHf3Mvs6Q/s1600/iphone15.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoKeGq4xyh8/VGp5j2DNmoI/AAAAAAAAmyw/O1wkdqG_NrI/s1600/iphone2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KoKeGq4xyh8/VGp5j2DNmoI/AAAAAAAAmyw/O1wkdqG_NrI/s1600/iphone2.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b><u>From Victoria to Derrick:</u></b><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnhhf21KfyM/VGuS0bKGfnI/AAAAAAAAm2M/I5kU9y0jeE4/s1600/iphone8.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tnhhf21KfyM/VGuS0bKGfnI/AAAAAAAAm2M/I5kU9y0jeE4/s1600/iphone8.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ttdKH2N-N4/VGuVSASSWiI/AAAAAAAAm2g/ky_yjd7ojCk/s1600/iphone17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1ttdKH2N-N4/VGuVSASSWiI/AAAAAAAAm2g/ky_yjd7ojCk/s1600/iphone17.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58qeyUJUnOw/VGuWR0oP6mI/AAAAAAAAm2s/dRhJYGFUi9Y/s1600/iphone18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-58qeyUJUnOw/VGuWR0oP6mI/AAAAAAAAm2s/dRhJYGFUi9Y/s1600/iphone18.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Dd_GYuyTMU/VGuY2ZYkAeI/AAAAAAAAm3I/qI5gKoTxfwg/s1600/iphone9.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3Dd_GYuyTMU/VGuY2ZYkAeI/AAAAAAAAm3I/qI5gKoTxfwg/s1600/iphone9.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mC0unxndRQ/VGt8sCdQRLI/AAAAAAAAm1M/a1rvgANBeBA/s1600/iphone12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6mC0unxndRQ/VGt8sCdQRLI/AAAAAAAAm1M/a1rvgANBeBA/s1600/iphone12.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><u>From Mike to Derrick:</u></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ndhrAdm6pbA/VGt9_wS5dDI/AAAAAAAAm1Y/Pnn9AF37xyY/s1600/iphone13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ndhrAdm6pbA/VGt9_wS5dDI/AAAAAAAAm1Y/Pnn9AF37xyY/s1600/iphone13.png" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7893468744733587749.post-72503719407602288502014-11-02T10:47:00.002-05:002023-01-22T19:19:11.461-05:0050: Strange Bedfellows – Pt. 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
*Author's note: Please excuse the lighting in some sections. I experienced a crash or two and forgot to dim them/color them flame.*</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xRjZKDQ9RnE/VEco0NteF6I/AAAAAAAAmZA/KvQNVZCZ49Q/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xRjZKDQ9RnE/VEco0NteF6I/AAAAAAAAmZA/KvQNVZCZ49Q/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A steady stream of light, yellow in color with an orange hue
beamed down onto Victoria’s face as she awakened. Still clad in her underwear,
she lay sprawled out on her extra soft silk comforter doing her best to
convince her body to move. She sat up on the edge of the bed and stretched, wincing
from the pain in her neck. Every muscle in her body felt sore but it was the
good kind. Glancing over her shoulder she found herself staring into the charming
smile and reason behind the ache in her lower back and thighs. “What?” she
asked of the cocky expression on Derrick’s face.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nothing. It just looks like someone is in need of a
massage…again.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh your <i>massage </i>is
the reason I feel so tender. They always lead to sore throats and cramped
muscles.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What can I say? I’m an expert in pleasure.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AeqsmETHh6I/VEco0gm1bLI/AAAAAAAAmZI/oZ1SQGcMFak/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AeqsmETHh6I/VEco0gm1bLI/AAAAAAAAmZI/oZ1SQGcMFak/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aIFcxrYjk7o/VEco0l2VAII/AAAAAAAAmZE/g93raw_9ujk/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aIFcxrYjk7o/VEco0l2VAII/AAAAAAAAmZE/g93raw_9ujk/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well that plus the fact you seem more and more aggressive
in bed. Little, mortal me is just trying to keep up.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, I…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No,” she interrupted with a smile. “I don’t want you to
apologize. I like the aggressiveness; well as long as it doesn’t turn into full
blown sadomasochism. It’s just nice when you dominate.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Really?” Derrick asked with an arrogant tone in his voice
that made Victoria’s cheeks flush with color. “Now I’m getting the picture, you
naughty, little kitten.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria laughed and tossed herself against the grinning
vampire, pushing him down into the sheets of her bed as she planted kisses
along his cheek leading towards his lips. “I think you live to tease me.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vzG_xqe78Cw/VEco3L41CKI/AAAAAAAAmZY/ecKK3Z4ejKA/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vzG_xqe78Cw/VEco3L41CKI/AAAAAAAAmZY/ecKK3Z4ejKA/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjYsAIR7ZRQ/VEco6BTuYaI/AAAAAAAAmZk/QFVdUlp3QYw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mjYsAIR7ZRQ/VEco6BTuYaI/AAAAAAAAmZk/QFVdUlp3QYw/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well it’s certainly not a bad way to start the day,” he
spoke in a low tone that sent shivers down her spine. Derrick pulled her in for
another kiss and felt her body warm, basking in the knowledge that a single
touch could light her fire. “Good morning Victoria.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey yourself. Now where’s my breakfast in bed?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh well…I uh…see the thing is…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No excuses. You’re the one touting your MANY degrees,
including your semesters in France under ‘renowned’ chefs so by my estimation
that means you should have had breakfast cooked and ready for my enjoyment five
minutes ago. You’re slipping.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ll get right on that.” </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ReKGDvcRU4/UpLPlhzSBAI/AAAAAAAAdEc/Cu2ZnEU5BvQ/s1600/Screenshot-01.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_ReKGDvcRU4/UpLPlhzSBAI/AAAAAAAAdEc/Cu2ZnEU5BvQ/s640/Screenshot-01.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria watched as he stepped out of the room and opened
her bottom drawer. Liberating a small text from the nightstand, she flipped to
the section she had dog-eared the night before and picked up on her reading.
After her last few encounters with vampires, Victoria realized there was much
more she was missing with the supernatural breed and wanted to understand
exactly what she was dealing with.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She had only gotten two pages in when she heard footsteps
ascending the staircase again. “What’s that?” Derrick asked looking at the book
clutched in Victoria’s hands. “You brought reading material to bed? No, no, no,
we’ll have none of that!” he growled and yanked the book from her hands. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iTsKWlGnHqk/UpLPkxnYUkI/AAAAAAAAdEY/lI_M9Fnbotc/s1600/Screenshot-02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iTsKWlGnHqk/UpLPkxnYUkI/AAAAAAAAdEY/lI_M9Fnbotc/s640/Screenshot-02.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria screeched and jumped to her knees as he started a
game of ‘keep-away’. Tossing the book to the floor as she reached the edge of
the bed, she was met with a deep kiss as she lunged towards him. Derrick pulled
her against him and slowly lowered her back to the bed as Victoria moaned
against his lips. “No fair, that’s cheating.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m a vampire, Victoria. We always play dirty.” He pushed
himself between her legs as he continued kissing up and down her collarbone. Ever
so gently he planted his mouth on hers, leisurely licking the strawberry
flavored gloss off her lips. He pulled away slightly, looking down at her.
Derrick’s emblazoned eyes flicked over her and he gave her a slow sexy wink
that started an immediate fire between her legs.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivVDq6i9RwM/UpLPlXLOIiI/AAAAAAAAdEg/X1UeOhf-4o0/s1600/Screenshot-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ivVDq6i9RwM/UpLPlXLOIiI/AAAAAAAAdEg/X1UeOhf-4o0/s640/Screenshot-03.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Leaning up Victoria began to kiss him back. Gradually she worked
her way around his full lips, then up across his cheek and over to his ear. “Is
that so?” she whispered against him and quickly rolled Derrick to his back. He
laughed in surprise as she began wrestling with him. Playfully each pinned the
other until finally she locked her legs around his hips and kept him from
turning her. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now who’s cheating?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What can I say? I’m a quick learner,” she laughed aloud as
his fingers tickled up her sides and hurriedly grabbed at his hands to keep
them away. “Derrick stop! Stop it!” she begged as she felt her feet pull from
beneath him. He tried rolling her again and she leaned forward onto his
shoulders dropping as much of her weight as she could, “No!”</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gUmM-1t_vNs/UpLPqlydKiI/AAAAAAAAdEs/jfBkAt3h6IU/s1600/Screenshot-04.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gUmM-1t_vNs/UpLPqlydKiI/AAAAAAAAdEs/jfBkAt3h6IU/s640/Screenshot-04.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
He sighed in frustration and obvious defeat. Although he
could have easily taken her at any time, he enjoyed watching her attempt to
overpower him. Victoria danced her fingers across his chest and up to his face.
Turning his head towards her, she devoured his lips in a kiss.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Immediately their mouths came together in an eternal kiss,
soft lips touching at first. The tip of his tongue flicked across the honey
softness of her lips and she parted them for him, gently accepting his intimate
caress. Derrick closed his hand behind Victoria’s knee as he felt her leg slide
up his hip and over his crotch. She groaned as he stopped her endeavor to tease
him and pushed away, pinning him down beneath her. “I read something before you
stole my book away and I’d like you to tell me if it’s true or not.”</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BIhw9LxchE0/UpLPsQJbBXI/AAAAAAAAdE4/8wvjIPc03lI/s1600/Screenshot-05.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BIhw9LxchE0/UpLPsQJbBXI/AAAAAAAAdE4/8wvjIPc03lI/s640/Screenshot-05.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR9rFBpv14k/UpLPrwXAyVI/AAAAAAAAdE0/q_JrZTCaanc/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR9rFBpv14k/UpLPrwXAyVI/AAAAAAAAdE0/q_JrZTCaanc/s640/Screenshot-06.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright. What comforts can I share to ease your mind,
Victoria?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I know that vampires have a talent for compulsion and
mind manipulation. But the book describes you as being able to also pull
thoughts from people, in other words you can read minds.” Derrick smirked and
Victoria’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “So it’s true then?” He nodded and she
continued. “You can read my thoughts right this second?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course I can. I’ve always been able to read your
thoughts. But I’ve never abused the talent, Victoria. Whenever I’m around you I
block them out as best I can. Besides you always speak your mind so I never had
to actually use it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GUnDFGEGoM/UpLPw0jIIgI/AAAAAAAAdFM/Xm0lIFj603A/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6GUnDFGEGoM/UpLPw0jIIgI/AAAAAAAAdFM/Xm0lIFj603A/s640/Screenshot-07.png" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“So not only do you know how I feel all the time courtesy of
my charmed bracelet but you always knew what I was thinking as a special bonus
as well?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“In a sense I suppose,” he nodded his head in agreement and
watched her eyes swivel around her head as she thought over their interactions.
“Would it make you feel better if I told you what it was that I wanted?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“There’s no need for that,” she smiled and rubbed her hand
over his crotch and the stiffening arousal behind his zipper. “I already know
what you want.” Victoria moaned as she straddled her legs on either side of
Derrick’s body. Pulling her shirt off over her head, she felt his fingers hook
into the sides of her panties quickly assisting with getting them off. Victoria
laughed as Derrick lifted his hips and slid his pants off. </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hW5PI7-01qg/UpLPwk7PEMI/AAAAAAAAdFE/alcTsM3q67I/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hW5PI7-01qg/UpLPwk7PEMI/AAAAAAAAdFE/alcTsM3q67I/s640/Screenshot-08.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
He smiled up at her as she gripped his shaft delicately in
her hand and pushed him deep inside her silken tunnel. Her head fell back as he
touched every spot inside her and she chewed her bottom lip as she began moving
against him. Derrick held her firmly, watching as she rotated her hips,
grinding her pelvis into his. Victoria slid her hands up and down his chest as
she fell forward, looking at him with hungry eyes. “Are you going to dominate
me this time?” he groaned as the heat of her walls enveloped him and he dug his
fingers into the flesh of her ass.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t think that’s even possible,” she giggled as she
swayed her hips on top of him before pinning his hands above his head. “Don’t
think I don’t know you let me win earlier.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I am a generous guy.”</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EygTyRqsQqo/UpLPyQiFHNI/AAAAAAAAdFQ/ag-hnC6nIIk/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EygTyRqsQqo/UpLPyQiFHNI/AAAAAAAAdFQ/ag-hnC6nIIk/s640/Screenshot-09.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mmm which is why you get rewarded,” she sighed and moved
her fingers between her thighs. Placing her index against her clit, she rubbed
slow circles at first and felt her body quiver with the added stimulation. Her
movements were teasing and she languidly rolled herself against him, building
up the passion as she felt him slip in and out of her. “God Derrick, you’re so
big. You fill me so full.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh dirty talk. Is that what you think I want?” The soft
flesh of her thighs slid up and down his hips and he groaned as he fought the
desire to turn her over, pin her beneath him and take her hard. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoPKFO1V_xk/UpLP3NdcPOI/AAAAAAAAdFg/YSEjMyZdCmo/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoPKFO1V_xk/UpLP3NdcPOI/AAAAAAAAdFg/YSEjMyZdCmo/s640/Screenshot-10.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-waN50qsGP1c/UpLQC9m7S3I/AAAAAAAAdGU/WVh3rjn0yaE/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-waN50qsGP1c/UpLQC9m7S3I/AAAAAAAAdGU/WVh3rjn0yaE/s640/Screenshot-18.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not dirty talk, just an observation,” she moaned, her voice
deep with lust and starving. Victoria rocked herself faster, leaning over to
give Derrick a sensuous kiss. Their tongues rolled in a battle of wills and he
groaned into her mouth. The vibrations of the moan sent chills up her spine that
left her lips tingling as she pulled away. He fought his arms away and quickly
placed them on her thighs again helping to lift her each time she moved as she
thrashed around furiously on top of him. “Mmm, that’s so good,” her tongue
licked over her lips as he reached up to play with her breasts, fondling her
with a gentle massage and flicking her nipples.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mPrEEFcZ0I/UpLP30K4_9I/AAAAAAAAdFk/ATR8h5zJS2A/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--mPrEEFcZ0I/UpLP30K4_9I/AAAAAAAAdFk/ATR8h5zJS2A/s640/Screenshot-11.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YEBUPw-0vyg/UpLP349vECI/AAAAAAAAdFo/EFjYC-Rik3Y/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YEBUPw-0vyg/UpLP349vECI/AAAAAAAAdFo/EFjYC-Rik3Y/s640/Screenshot-12.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
She couldn’t think straight as the sensations between her
legs increased the longer her body slid against his. Victoria felt her legs
tremble and she stared down into Derrick’s eyes. He watched those chocolate
brown orbs glisten as her soft moans took on a new intensity, she was close. Corkscrewing
his hips, Derrick lifted Victoria higher on top of him and she gasped softly
when he leaned up and grabbed her by the hair and pushed into her harder.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQQB8HIR9p0/UpLP79Ylx4I/AAAAAAAAdFw/Ffqtu8McLcQ/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WQQB8HIR9p0/UpLP79Ylx4I/AAAAAAAAdFw/Ffqtu8McLcQ/s640/Screenshot-13.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, like that, right there!” she grunted with vigor and
dug her heels into the bed. Her head leaned back, her eyes rolling in her skull
and Victoria’s palms pressed firmly against his shoulders as her fingernails
dug lightly into his skin. A burning hot flame licked its way up her spine,
exploding into infinite embers inside her. She screamed his name and a few
obscenities as she came hard on top of him. Her breasts slapped against
Derrick’s chest as he explored her depths and he closed his mouth over her
nipple.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuXRVkSPaNE/UpLQEdltrhI/AAAAAAAAdGc/vGsu3zVJDMM/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tuXRVkSPaNE/UpLQEdltrhI/AAAAAAAAdGc/vGsu3zVJDMM/s640/Screenshot-17.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria’s body tensed and tingled and she moaned louder
in his ear. “You know something Victoria?” Derrick snarled as his hands pulled
her deeper against him, the tension in his body almost at its peak. “I
think I like having you on top of me.” Waves of pleasure flowed through him,
one after the other as white heat radiated from her core to the very tips of her
fingers. Her inner muscles gripped him, holding him where she wanted and she felt
him go rigid with every muscle tensing. </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnDRwJAERSc/UpLP9lfADwI/AAAAAAAAdF8/sn94E2v27xs/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnDRwJAERSc/UpLP9lfADwI/AAAAAAAAdF8/sn94E2v27xs/s640/Screenshot-14.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick grunted louder with every thrust into her and each whip
of her hips was met with a moan of her own. Victoria’s tightness increased the
sensations between their bodies and she felt his shaft expand inside of her as
she squeezed his body hard between her legs. Twice more he brought her to
orgasms, which she thought would short-circuit her brain at any moment. </div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQcexzxIfic/UpLQAxwRAaI/AAAAAAAAdGI/0QZuKpotnhs/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oQcexzxIfic/UpLQAxwRAaI/AAAAAAAAdGI/0QZuKpotnhs/s640/Screenshot-16.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Working her hips into a deep thrust she took him in
entirely, slamming into Derrick’s body. She could feel his balls tighten into rocks
on her ass cheeks. Her clit stiffened as she moved against him and it rubbed
over the base of his mound getting its own stimulation the faster she twisted.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxxagP9r27A/UpLP-FAqEbI/AAAAAAAAdGA/qrhoZNJ7u58/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxxagP9r27A/UpLP-FAqEbI/AAAAAAAAdGA/qrhoZNJ7u58/s640/Screenshot-15.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick grabbed her thighs and pistoned himself upwards into
her for endless minutes, until finally exploding hot lava into her frenzied
hips. And as she felt his seed shoot inside her, Victoria’s climax peaked again.
She became washed away with the tide of ecstasy, spasming, arching, screaming
loudly as his hands gripped her hips tightly.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6aYBFVFwNg/UpLQFY4wrfI/AAAAAAAAdGY/FIoBjCVNde8/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y6aYBFVFwNg/UpLQFY4wrfI/AAAAAAAAdGY/FIoBjCVNde8/s640/Screenshot-19.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
She locked her hips onto his still rolling with him making
sure she got every last drop. Finally she collapsed into Derrick’s arms as she laid
her head on his chest, her breasts heaving from exertion. She blew out a breath
as she rolled to her side and looked up at him. “At this rate I don’t think I’m
leaving this bed today.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Somehow I think I’m ok with that,” Derrick laughed and
kissed her forehead sweetly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mmm what’s burning?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“BREAKFAST!” Derrick jumped from the bed and snatched his
pants from the floor as he rushed down the stairs in nearly one stride.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuIxb33uALg/VEco50EVAfI/AAAAAAAAmZg/EjpFrV-zWsA/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XuIxb33uALg/VEco50EVAfI/AAAAAAAAmZg/EjpFrV-zWsA/s1600/Screenshot-06.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria got dressed and met Derrick in the kitchen, just as
he was dumping the last of the ruined food down the drain. “Mmm smells like
burnt bacon and eggs with a hint of French toast,” she teased, tossing his
shirt over the back of the dining chair.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I uh, yeah, sorry about that. I put it on low but I kinda
got distracted upstairs.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? You’re blaming me?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, I’m blaming me and my animal urges but admittedly you
did play a role in the demise of breakfast. It’s ok though. It gives me an
excuse to burn through some of my hard earned cash and take you out to a nice
restaurant or something. Where would you like to go?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3z9KJud7Jc/VEco65xDCjI/AAAAAAAAmZo/aNN4AOIlBZc/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3z9KJud7Jc/VEco65xDCjI/AAAAAAAAmZo/aNN4AOIlBZc/s1600/Screenshot-07.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Somehow I can’t help but see this as a ploy to get me out
of the house. You know Cole’s coming over soon. I asked him to drop by with the
FBI documents on that serial thing.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, right, how could I have forgotten?” Derrick smiled
wryly and dropped the pan into the sink before moving closer to where Victoria
stood. “How about I go out and grab something then?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Or I can have cereal, it’s no big deal. Breakfast is
actually my least favorite meal of the day you know? Besides, it’s supposed to snow later and I don’t want to go out in that.” Victoria glanced over at
the door and noticed the normal blinking red light on the motion detector was
green and inquisitively glanced over at Derrick. “Did you go somewhere last
night?”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0AT9wS7Cvfw/VEco9uzLtRI/AAAAAAAAmZ4/S6Xn1iv1CEM/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0AT9wS7Cvfw/VEco9uzLtRI/AAAAAAAAmZ4/S6Xn1iv1CEM/s1600/Screenshot-08.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh…no,” Derrick lied, staring her right in the face. “Why
do you ask?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“The alarm isn’t on,” she motioned towards the indicator. “I
know I set it before going to bed last night. You even commented about not
needing it because of Hades.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh. Well maybe I turned it off when I came down to start
breakfast,” he shrugged nonchalantly and stepped closer. “I guess I didn’t
notice; habit you know?” he quickly added before changing the subject. “Hey can
I ask you something? It’s sorta personal,” Derrick sighed, leaning onto the
counter with a devilish smirk on his lips. He licked them gently, noticing
Victoria’s eyes on them and she sighed and nodded her head yes. “Why do you sing
when we’re in bed together?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jvKWsWRyehg/VEco-6vydSI/AAAAAAAAmaA/sLAdYseVWmE/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jvKWsWRyehg/VEco-6vydSI/AAAAAAAAmaA/sLAdYseVWmE/s1600/Screenshot-09.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Uh…” an obvious flush of red tint filled her cheeks and
Derrick slowly sauntered around the counter towards her. Gently he pulled her
into his arms and guided her head up until she locked eyes on him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Tell me.” He kissed her cheek and softly trailed his lips
down her chin to the hollow of her neck. Victoria moaned and instinctively her
head fell back. Derrick’s arms closed tighter around her waist as he pressed
passionate kisses into her collarbone.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t…uh—I don’t know,” she replied timidly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EJUcHo0qnM/VEco_Ycs6TI/AAAAAAAAmaE/JFiPMAITOxg/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4EJUcHo0qnM/VEco_Ycs6TI/AAAAAAAAmaE/JFiPMAITOxg/s1600/Screenshot-10.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t be embarrassed,” he laughed lightly and squeezed her
side as she inhaled a jagged breath. “It’s kinda cute.” He felt her tense again
in his arms prompting him to hug her even closer. “It’s ok, Victoria. I like
it. Really. It’s nice. Admittedly I’ve never heard a woman do that before when
I was with her. It’s mostly ‘oh god,’ ‘harder,’ faster’ or ‘I think I’m dying.’
And while there were instances of you screaming those things, the singing was an
interestingly new experience.” He pulled away and looked up into her eyes again
with a smile. “You’re always full of surprises.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7j0Q4ldL5s/VEcpBH0JWlI/AAAAAAAAmaQ/Eeo1JHJMsaQ/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-O7j0Q4ldL5s/VEcpBH0JWlI/AAAAAAAAmaQ/Eeo1JHJMsaQ/s1600/Screenshot-11.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HbpDVXT3mag/VEcpDPgM2cI/AAAAAAAAmaY/pwfAjm0Qp-4/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HbpDVXT3mag/VEcpDPgM2cI/AAAAAAAAmaY/pwfAjm0Qp-4/s1600/Screenshot-12.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks, Derrick. There’s nothing like a healthy dose of humiliation to start the day off on the right foot!”</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well if you’d like, I could sing a refrain of that last
song for you,” he laughed and watched her cover her face in embarrassment. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know, Derrick, on second thought I would like some
breakfast. Go. Pick me up something somewhere far away.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Now, now, Victoria. Is that what you really want? Hmm? Me
to leave and never come back?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gd10RVvj1Q/VEcpDtHF7WI/AAAAAAAAmac/FX3DxThSU5M/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gd10RVvj1Q/VEcpDtHF7WI/AAAAAAAAmac/FX3DxThSU5M/s1600/Screenshot-13.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I didn’t say ‘never’, just…a little while,” she giggled as
his arms encircled her waist. He made kissy faces until she let their lips
connect briefly and felt his hand make its way beneath her shirt, slowly
working her nipple to a point. She gasped and a tender moan escaped her lips
when she pressed herself forward against his teasing fingers only to have him
pull away abruptly and straighten her blouse. “You’re evil, Derrick.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“More than you know, Victoria,” he grinned and leaned
forward to kiss her again but was interrupted by the loud, surprising ringing
of the doorbell.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole’s here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, what great timing he has,” Derrick groaned as Victoria
pulled away to go answer the door. He tossed on his shirt and leaned against
the refrigerator, watching the switch of her hips as she walked through the
foyer.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBS5MuLgxi8/VEcpEZGhA-I/AAAAAAAAmak/zjBZKKg8xI0/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jBS5MuLgxi8/VEcpEZGhA-I/AAAAAAAAmak/zjBZKKg8xI0/s1600/Screenshot-14.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey Cole! Wow, that looks like quite a bit.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah there are two more boxes in my car. I figured I should
bring over everything going back to that crime 25 years ago.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Thanks Cole! This is great. I really appreciate this.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s no problem at all, Vik. You know I love helping you
when I can.” Derrick watched as Cole eyed Victoria while he followed her into
the kitchen. The look on his face was purely predatory and Derrick was not
pleased by the way he watched his girl’s every move. Finally realizing they
weren’t alone, Cole glanced up at the vampire with an arrogant smile as he
stroked a hand through his fallow brown hair. “Derrick,” he sighed and leaned
back against the wall. “Always a pleasure.”</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlqZrlwZaz4/VEcpHdSfJOI/AAAAAAAAma0/4HzYfsmuXPw/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TlqZrlwZaz4/VEcpHdSfJOI/AAAAAAAAma0/4HzYfsmuXPw/s1600/Screenshot-15.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_8tadCxWPkU/VEcpGs2ZmbI/AAAAAAAAmaw/l5NZ70WC69Q/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_8tadCxWPkU/VEcpGs2ZmbI/AAAAAAAAmaw/l5NZ70WC69Q/s1600/Screenshot-16.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Is it? I should really work on that.” He could read the
thoughts going through the man’s mind. Derrick ground his nails into the palms of his hands, trying to get a
grip on his temper as he regarded Victoria’s ex; although the thought of
leaving him a bleeding, sobbing mess on the floor was very appealing right now.
“It’s so kind of you to lend a hand to Victoria, free of all selfish gains.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Cole’s eyes narrowed briefly as he picked up on the
implication and he shrugged casually before joining Victoria beside the
doorway. “Yeah, of course. It’s what friends do.”<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m glad we can agree. Friends should help <i>friends</i>,” Derrick replied, placing emphasis on the word. He looked at the confused expression on Victoria’s face and offered a fake, generous smile to her company. “You hungry, Cole? I was just about to head out for some fuel for Victoria. I could grab you something as well.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOyeJK1qK5Y/VEcpH_k5oBI/AAAAAAAAma8/SZnbqg7Fqc8/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOyeJK1qK5Y/VEcpH_k5oBI/AAAAAAAAma8/SZnbqg7Fqc8/s1600/Screenshot-17.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah not really; I had an orange juice before I came over.
But thanks.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Just an orange juice?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah I’ve never really been a huge breakfast guy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know you shouldn’t really skip breakfast, a growing boy
like you. It’s the most important meal of the day. Me, I used to love breakfast
as a kid. In fact in the days of palace life I’d have already eaten by now.”
Victoria glanced over at Derrick as he continued speaking to Cole, curious as
to where the conversation was leading. “You an eggs and bacon man or more of a
toast and coffee kind of guy?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m pancakes and sausage with maple syrup.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ah, the classics. I myself prefer something nice and hot;
fresh from the tap.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmDI3r0ic3o/VEcpKDpXXKI/AAAAAAAAmbI/Kxu2r4IJNmE/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OmDI3r0ic3o/VEcpKDpXXKI/AAAAAAAAmbI/Kxu2r4IJNmE/s1600/Screenshot-18.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G-GQXD69ipA/VEcpLmunqAI/AAAAAAAAmbQ/Skc74p0ydKA/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-G-GQXD69ipA/VEcpLmunqAI/AAAAAAAAmbQ/Skc74p0ydKA/s1600/Screenshot-19.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course though you are trying to be careful about what
you eat these days, Derrick,” Victoria interrupted as Cole looked at the vampire
inquisitively. “You never know when you’ll bite something that’ll bite back.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah? I don’t know, Victoria,” he shrugged and grinned
sadistically towards the federal agent. “When I get peckish, anything could
happen. Maybe I should feed on something, even if it doesn’t go down well. My
tummy’s really rumbling for something in a brunette. You work out Cole?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok, Derrick, there’s a Starbucks just three blocks away.
I’d love a Mocha Cookie Crumble Frappuccino, please. Cole, you want anything?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. I’m good,” he growled through clenched teeth as
Victoria shoved Derrick through the front door. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Grab some muffins too while you’re out. See ya in a bit.”
She pushed her back against the wall and exhaled a heavy sigh as Derrick
started down the driveway.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6Hd_fCZjTM/VEcpMvlIDfI/AAAAAAAAmbU/cummuvxgglE/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A6Hd_fCZjTM/VEcpMvlIDfI/AAAAAAAAmbU/cummuvxgglE/s1600/Screenshot-20.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What the hell was that?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Derrick? Nothing. No, he was just kidding.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Kidding? About eating me? I don’t know, Vik. Perhaps that
makes me the weird one here then because I don’t find humor in that sort of
thing, do you?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I-I’m sorry, Cole. You’re right. I’ll have a talk with him
when he gets back, ok?” she responded softly, stroking a hand over his arm
comfortingly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvfCqzPpBG8/VEcpNuI6NTI/AAAAAAAAmbc/A1fa5AsR4ys/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wvfCqzPpBG8/VEcpNuI6NTI/AAAAAAAAmbc/A1fa5AsR4ys/s1600/Screenshot-21.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No,” he sighed and stepped closer. “Don’t worry about it,
Vik. Maybe you’re right. Maybe it was just a joke and I’m just overreacting. I
mean the idea he’s a…you know, kinda hasn’t really settled for me still. I
didn’t mean to take it out on you,” he smiled and teased a hand down her side
as he pulled her against him, tightening his grip in a gentle, unexpected hug. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s ok,” she responded slowly and briefly completed the
embrace before patting his back lightly. “So you find anything useful in these
files?” Victoria asked, pulling away and looking at him expectantly.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMk7dhOJDPM/VEcpQlyPGcI/AAAAAAAAmbo/kVKYh6iuFnw/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kMk7dhOJDPM/VEcpQlyPGcI/AAAAAAAAmbo/kVKYh6iuFnw/s1600/Screenshot-22.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rrgtdrxQ1QA/VEcpRAtykJI/AAAAAAAAmbs/wcdXP_9IqHQ/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rrgtdrxQ1QA/VEcpRAtykJI/AAAAAAAAmbs/wcdXP_9IqHQ/s1600/Screenshot-23.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Actually I did. Something rather surprising to me too and
I’m sure you’re probably not aware either.” Grabbing the top folder from the
box, Cole began reading as Victoria listened on. “In July of 1982, one Delores
Carson was admitted to the emergency room for second and third degree burns to
the left side of her body. She appeared confused and belligerent to attending
staff as they tried to care for her wounds.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?!” Victoria shrieked and snatched the file from Cole’s
hands. “My mother was hospitalized for severe burns? That…that can’t be right.
Her left arm, leg, face and head were severely scorched. Pounds of charred
flesh were removed and there was little hope of recovery. The next morning when
doctors went to check on her, she was gone. No news of what happened to the
burn victim ever surfaced,” Victoria continued reading, becoming more and more
confused. “This makes no sense! My Mother wasn’t burned. You’ve seen her Cole.
Does she look like someone who’s had skin grafts to conceal burns?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gK1KU4RBR0s/VEcpRt_1qeI/AAAAAAAAmbw/vlJoqYZW3SQ/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gK1KU4RBR0s/VEcpRt_1qeI/AAAAAAAAmbw/vlJoqYZW3SQ/s1600/Screenshot-24.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No I suppose not. You know it says that it took several firemen
to hold her down and get her strapped to the gurney to bring her in. I’d guess
that meant she was pretty strong too. She was found near Grandview Park,
sparking ashes and had smoke rising from her person,” Cole paused and glanced
over at Victoria as she continued reading through the dated report. “Uh, so…does
this have something to do with, you know…witch stuff?” Victoria’s eyes met his
and he nervously rubbed his hand over the back of his neck as an uneasy, stiff
smile drew his lips tight. “Well I mean, you know, I’m assuming your mom can do
what you can. Not to sound like every son-in-law in the country but, your Mom’s
a witch, right?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria giggled a little which eased the anxiety Cole felt
over speaking the implication and he sighed easily as she nodded her head yes.
“It’s where I get my powers; my Mom and my Grandma.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your Grams too? Wow. Remind me to be on my best behavior
when I meet her.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaafcbbHqrg/VEcpTEjNYTI/AAAAAAAAmcA/dv9rRsDKhVQ/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IaafcbbHqrg/VEcpTEjNYTI/AAAAAAAAmcA/dv9rRsDKhVQ/s1600/Screenshot-25.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should be. Otherwise she might turn you into a toad!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Haha yeah right. Wait, Vik, she wouldn’t really do that
right?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Depends,” Victoria shrugged and started for the living
room. “You got anything else to show me? You said there were boxes of stuff.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right. Let me run out to my car and I’ll grab them for ya.
Be right back.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria moved the box with her to the living room and fell
back onto her couch, immersing herself in the file, thinking over and over
again about the possibilities. Maybe Cole was right. Maybe her Mom really was
burned and used some sort of mystical cure to fix herself. But then that begs
the questions, who or what burned her and why? Was it a spell gone wrong? Or
could it very possibly have been one of the many bad sects and covens her
Grandma had warned her about. “That’s the last of it,” Cole announced as he
dropped a second box onto the floor near the sofa. “I’m not exactly sure what
you wanted with all of this Vik but it’ll take a little while to get through it
all.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ivCw6p2wtOg/VEcpWWBA9YI/AAAAAAAAmcI/baqjtSyd_8c/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ivCw6p2wtOg/VEcpWWBA9YI/AAAAAAAAmcI/baqjtSyd_8c/s1600/Screenshot-26.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2NsWwZvGiNE/VEcpXLFtiEI/AAAAAAAAmcM/Gsl5qNqc0Us/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2NsWwZvGiNE/VEcpXLFtiEI/AAAAAAAAmcM/Gsl5qNqc0Us/s1600/Screenshot-27.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well luckily for me, I have help. Derrick can read through
some and Mike should be over a little later today.” The front door opened and
Derrick entered with a bag from Starbucks and a cup holder with two cups of
coffee. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cole visibly frowned when he leaned over and gave Victoria a
peck on the lips and handed her the special ordered Frappuccino. “Alright, well
you let me know if you need more eyes. I have to get back to work but I’m free
later tonight.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
“Thanks Cole, I will.”<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjjTelubKNc/VEcpXtDxNyI/AAAAAAAAmcU/3K7NhYNp5iA/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qjjTelubKNc/VEcpXtDxNyI/AAAAAAAAmcU/3K7NhYNp5iA/s1600/Screenshot-28.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
She walked him to the door and he leaned over, pulling her
into a hug. “Be careful ok? I know this serial thing is heating up especially with
the discovery of another body but…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? There was another victim?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah, it was on the news earlier this morning. I thought
you knew.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No! I had no idea. Did the police say anything?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You know the drill it’s all hush-hush as far as the media
goes. I can get my hands on the full report for you if you’d like.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That would be great, Cole! Thank you.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Absolutely.” He looked up and caught Derrick’s gaze and sighed.
“I’ll catch you later Vik.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dX3-MOgJa1I/VEcpcQgaUYI/AAAAAAAAmco/gw-v3BKEUKQ/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dX3-MOgJa1I/VEcpcQgaUYI/AAAAAAAAmco/gw-v3BKEUKQ/s1600/Screenshot-30.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“See ya,” she waved him off and shut the door. Victoria waited
for Cole to back out of her yard before turning to the smiling vampire in her
living room. “Alright Mr. Passive-Aggressive, you mind telling me what that was
all about?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What?” he smiled demurely and took a sip of his drink.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t act innocent with me! You live to mock Cole and you
need to lay off a little. Cole’s had it rough the past couple of months and the
last thing he needs is for the guy who’s sleeping with his ex giving him a hard
time.” </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUV292pc0ZM/VEcpczv2c0I/AAAAAAAAmcs/fB58UgdQ6nk/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUV292pc0ZM/VEcpczv2c0I/AAAAAAAAmcs/fB58UgdQ6nk/s1600/Screenshot-31.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Derrick opened his mouth as he started to say something but
then thought better. He had a few choice words about her ex but it was obvious
Victoria was not in the right frame of mind to hear them. Instead, he sighed
and leaned back against the sofa, watching as Victoria shifted her weight from
foot to foot waiting on him to respond. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it became apparent he was going the silent route, she
scooped up the file she had been reading and joined him on the couch. “Hey?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yeah?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You’d never met my Mom until you crashed Thanksgiving
dinner right?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYsq4Ha7tIM/VEcpeUmT4iI/AAAAAAAAmc4/kVOiZIDtM4M/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AYsq4Ha7tIM/VEcpeUmT4iI/AAAAAAAAmc4/kVOiZIDtM4M/s1600/Screenshot-32.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Right.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“But you’ve known Nana for years.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Did she ever mention my Mom having had some horrific
accident that might have left her um…scarred?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No. Loretta rarely spoke about her daughter with me. I
figured it was because of the way your Mom disowned your Grandmother. Why?
Where is this heading?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria pushed the file towards Derrick and he took a quick
look. “It doesn’t make sense to me.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Maybe you should try calling her; Loretta, not your Mom,”
Derrick shrugged and resumed his position against the cushions.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nH3S3UytuBI/VEcpij0ppOI/AAAAAAAAmdI/tcQ_7Dtj4as/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nH3S3UytuBI/VEcpij0ppOI/AAAAAAAAmdI/tcQ_7Dtj4as/s1600/Screenshot-35.png" height="480" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria groaned aloud and snatched her phone from the
coffee table. Loretta had returned home a week later but said nothing about
where she had gone or why she’d left so abruptly. Victoria was persistent;
trying her best to pry the information from her matriarch but Loretta remained
tight-lipped. Angrily she punched in the numbers to her Grandmother’s house,
ranting as she listened to it ring. “All these secrets are seriously driving me
fucking…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Hello?</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nana, hey. It’s Victoria. How are you?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>I’m well dear. How’s
my favorite granddaughter?</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not bad,” she frowned at the moniker but chose to bite her
tongue.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Any magical
consequences from your spell?</i>”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“None yet.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dEtWR7fsscc/VEcphTV_qaI/AAAAAAAAmdA/0Vb7c-AB7Xk/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dEtWR7fsscc/VEcphTV_qaI/AAAAAAAAmdA/0Vb7c-AB7Xk/s1600/Screenshot-33.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>That’s good to hear.
I remember my first solo spells. The larger ones always gave me such a buzz but
also left little reminders in my bones. I remember this one time I was fighting
a Walriderske and…</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry to interrupt Nana but I called for a specific
reason.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Of course, go on dear.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Has Mom ever been burned?” Victoria asked, getting straight
to the point.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>What? Why would you
ask such a thing, Sweetheart?</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Because I got my hands on a report stating that she was
admitted to the hospital some time in 1982. Doctors felt her injuries were
fatal and yet…”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>It’s a little
complicated, Victoria.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“How much more complicated can my life get at this point
Nana?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Much.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nana! You refuse to tell me about where you went last week.
You won’t talk to me about that parchment or answer any of the endless
questions I had about the man in my dreams so I need you to answer me,
straight, just once. Please!”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T0EqIus-i7Y/VEcpiCu1c0I/AAAAAAAAmdE/L7oWbKPDfR8/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T0EqIus-i7Y/VEcpiCu1c0I/AAAAAAAAmdE/L7oWbKPDfR8/s1600/Screenshot-34.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Is Derrick there with
you right now?</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Of course he is, why?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Victoria, sweetheart,
this is something I think you and I need to discuss in person. Do you think you
could come and see me? Without Derrick I mean.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can’t right now. I’m in the middle of something that’s
brought me around to Mom and I need to know what I’m dealing with before things
get too heavy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Soon then?</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nana, you’re scaring me. What’s so important it has to be
discussed face-to-face? And why all the secrecy around Derrick all of a
sudden?” she asked, barely glancing over her shoulder towards him. Derrick’s
ears perked up but he feigned disinterest as Victoria continued speaking to
Loretta.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXsv6snkfrU/VEcpliLDj1I/AAAAAAAAmdY/7hZibKqYa8U/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IXsv6snkfrU/VEcpliLDj1I/AAAAAAAAmdY/7hZibKqYa8U/s1600/Screenshot-36.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Because there are
just some things that are better kept in the family. And that’s all I’m going
to say about that.</i>” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“If I send him away, will you tell me then?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Victoria…</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Please?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Victoria heard her grandmother sigh and imagined she’d begun
pacing as the sound of heels clicking a wooden floor echoed over the line. “<i>I don’t know, Victoria. Even if he left he’d
still have a way of figuring it out with you. You haven’t perfected the craft
to better understand how to block him from your thoughts. Not to mention that
bracelet you’re wearing. You’re connected to him!</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fine! Just forget I asked. I’ll figure it out on my own!”
Victoria pulled the phone away from her ear and prepared to press ‘end’ just
when her grandmother’s voice shouted on the other end.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>IT’S IN OUR BLOOD!</i>”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? What does that mean, Grams?”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ee3KG-EYfM/VEcpnBpYCbI/AAAAAAAAmdg/ZnlRn1-SQNI/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ee3KG-EYfM/VEcpnBpYCbI/AAAAAAAAmdg/ZnlRn1-SQNI/s1600/Screenshot-37.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“Victoria, you, your
mother and I all have unique qualities coursing through our veins; rare in the
supernatural world. My blood is like an ability boost. I can make a vampire
faster, an ogre stronger or a giant taller for instance. Your Mother’s blood
has regenerative properties; she can heal the sick, including her burns. And can
you honestly ever remember being sick as a child? And your blood can change
history, predict futures and rewrite destinies. Plus, as the baby of the
Coleman line, you possess the ability to harness mine and your mother’s powers
as well. Your blood can do all three.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Why didn’t anyone tell me? Now Mom’s Thanksgiving rant
makes a little more sense. Is there any other life changing news you have to
disclose, Nana? Now would be the time.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Victoria, sweetie, I
understand your frustration. But you must understand information like this must
remain guarded. There is a long list of creatures who would like nothing more
than to rip us apart and drain us or chain us to some basement floor as a never
ending fountain of power.</i>” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Alright, fine, but tell me honestly, why did Mom renounce
her magic?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>She was attacked</i>,”
Loretta sighed as she felt pressured to relive the day that turned her only
daughter against her. “<i>She was pregnant
with you and it made her powers a bit…wonky. She was casting magics
uncontrollably. It led to the destruction of a sacred tomb, one that housed the
dragon matriarch of the Coleman lineage.</i>” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bE2kOgLYcnc/VEcuFSS0DVI/AAAAAAAAmeU/tkbJRBBkThI/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bE2kOgLYcnc/VEcuFSS0DVI/AAAAAAAAmeU/tkbJRBBkThI/s1600/Screenshot-43.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’m sorry, come again? We’re descended from dragons?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Yes. Newly awakened,
the dragon sought out the cause of her disturbance and found your mother. She
and I fought her off as best we could but, Dee was severely injured. After she
healed, she decided it would be best to give up her claim to our magics and
tried her best to keep you from it as well.</i>” She paused a moment and waited
for her granddaughter to say something.<i> </i>“<i>Are you ok? Do you want to come here and
talk to me? We can…we can talk about anything and everything.</i>”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I can’t now. I have company coming over. I’ll call you
later.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“<i>Victoria…</i>” she
hung the phone up abruptly and rubbed at her throbbing temples. Derrick sat up
towards the edge of his seat, glancing up at her solemnly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What did she say?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That I’m not as crazy as I thought.” The doorbell rang and
Victoria saw Mike waiting behind the glass panel. “We can talk about it later.
Right now, I have more important things to worry about; specifically this
serial killer,” she replied as she went to let him in.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGvaY93O780/VEcpnpZoNhI/AAAAAAAAmdk/XHRSdDRPh0I/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fGvaY93O780/VEcpnpZoNhI/AAAAAAAAmdk/XHRSdDRPh0I/s1600/Screenshot-38.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
They worked well into the night but made little progress on
the boxes Cole had liberated from the FBI. After Mike left, Victoria decided to
take a break and popped in a comedy to relieve some stress. She snuggled
against Derrick’s chest and rolled the blanket over her legs. Looking down at
her, he gently kissed her forehead and smiled when she fed him a mouthful of
popcorn. “I don’t want him hugging you,” he remarked as he pushed play on the <i>Super Troopers</i> DVD.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Who? Mike?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Cole? What?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I don’t like him and I don’t trust him.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“He’s just a friend Derrick; a very helpful friend.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, he’s your ex-boyfriend; you can never be friends with
an ex.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCYb4-XcfrA/VEcpoTkML9I/AAAAAAAAmds/y6LUsIz6n8k/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fCYb4-XcfrA/VEcpoTkML9I/AAAAAAAAmds/y6LUsIz6n8k/s1600/Screenshot-39.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What? Yes you can. I am. Where is this coming from?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Him.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Him? What’s that even mean?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Victoria, I don’t want this to become misinterpreted so
I’ll speak plainly. Cole can never be your friend because he’ll never stop
loving you. And because of that he’ll continue pushing the limits you’ll go
until he gets what he wants from you and as far as I’m concerned, that’s never
gonna happen again.” Derrick looked down at her once more but this time his
expression was much more frank. “Never.”</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hA4PFhD1Fy4/VEcprKI_ZxI/AAAAAAAAmd4/-Irt6EP7Cqk/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hA4PFhD1Fy4/VEcprKI_ZxI/AAAAAAAAmd4/-Irt6EP7Cqk/s1600/Screenshot-40.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And are you gonna tell me how you know all of this?” she
asked, swiveling around in his arms so she could look into his face.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I heard him think it.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh I see, you ‘heard him think it’. Derrick,” Victoria
started, hiding a smile as she bit down on her bottom lip, “Do you know why
Cole and I broke up?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, of course I do. He was a jealous, possessive control freak
with an ego as big as his…car. To be honest I don’t blame you, no one likes
that. And this is definitely not that. You’re free to hug any guy you want, just
not him.” He drew a smile from her with his signature smirk and Victoria nodded
and resumed her position against his chest.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2utuwIA5lik/VEcprjn8lDI/AAAAAAAAmd8/KR2UY2ieIzk/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2utuwIA5lik/VEcprjn8lDI/AAAAAAAAmd8/KR2UY2ieIzk/s1600/Screenshot-41.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk-Ubjk6nM8/VEcpsJhNvLI/AAAAAAAAmeA/B3aODX5_lmc/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk-Ubjk6nM8/VEcpsJhNvLI/AAAAAAAAmeA/B3aODX5_lmc/s1600/Screenshot-42.png" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Ok, Derrick. You can have this one. But you’d better get
that green-eyed monster of yours in check.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I drive a motorcycle, Victoria. I don’t have narcissistic
issues or the need to compensate for something that requires sports cars. This
isn’t jealousy; it’s the order of the jungle. And as far as I’m concerned,
vampire ranks higher on the food chain than human…Cole human not you human,
just to be clear.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well I’m glad that’s clear. Now do you think we can get
back to the movie?” He turned the volume up and she laughed as the highway
patrol pulled up behind the three teens discarding their drugs and shoveled a
handful of popcorn into her mouth. “Wait a second; did you just threaten to
kill Cole?”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Shh, I love this part. ‘Candy bars!’” Derrick mimicked and
laughed, ignoring the detective’s question.<br />
<br />
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br />
*Hades makes the best faces! Also I don't think he's a Derrick fan!*<br />
<br />
<a href="http://djvcoldblooded.blogspot.com/2015/03/51-strange-bedfellows-pt-3.html">Continue----></a></div>
</div>
</div>
DaijahVhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03685128767947355934noreply@blogger.com17