Dear readers,

 

I entered  Kittinyaz contest for March to challenge myself. And it was a challenge! I am honored to have my story Lily Of the Night mentioned along with all the entries. And a huge shout out to my dear friend Krispybee12 for winning 1st.

 

So I was not having good thoughts about Lily of the Night. Until I read some wonderful comments. And saw how many readers wanted more so it will be back to the writing board. And hopefully, the muse will listen for this one.

 

What’s new?

What have I been up to since my last post of Sins of the Father? Well, I am trying to get as many chapters written before my next post. This way there will be more for you to read. I promise I will post an update soon.

I have a new story on the horizon called The Midnight Cafe. I am still in process of writing it. I keep reading it and reading to make it the best I can.

Shout out to my Beta tj6james6. You Rock!! Thank you for putting up with my squirrel brain at times.

Thank you to my readers for your comments and support. It means so much to me.

 

Sincerely

 

Autumnchild26

 

 

Author Note: The Banner is all Kittinyaz . This was written for the writing contest for March. There are more chapters in the works.

Chapter 1

 

Lily made her way through the woods to her favorite clearing as she did  every night of the full moon. Her aunt Agatha, being a free spirit herself,  never minded her late night trips into the unknown woods. She knew  as soon as Lily turned  eleven that she was just like her mother, and her mother before her. She was one of the chosen wild children: The deep of the night calling to something within their very being. Agatha would watch Lily play in the gardens near her house. Lily, though always such a small child, didn’t seem to show much fear: Often getting too close the fire  when they  held bonfires to the spirits.  Her black hair  in the moonlight  and her flowing dresses gave her an otherness glow.

 

One  such night when she was in the woods, she met a very strange boy. He had messy black hair and green eyes to match her own. His messy  appearance  would have scared a normal child.  Lily, however, was no normal child. Instead she walked closer to the boy, undaunted and regal. When she got close enough she noticed he had a mark around his neck. It looked like a symbol in one of her aunt’s history books. Something about Gaul?  She couldn’t remember.

 

“What is a little girl like you doing out here at night alone? And without any parents near by?” Her eyebrows rose as she gazed on his youthful face.

 

“And where are you parents? Is it not too late for you as well?  This land has been in my family for years.”

 

The stranger smiled boyishly. “I am older than I look: You should never judge by what you see little girl.”

 

Lily snorted, “Why not? You certainly did.”

 

The stranger smirked. In all his milleniums he had never met someone who would talk back to him. He found this little girl quite entertaining. “Fair enough, and do you speak to strangers often?”

 

She smiled, “I’m Lilly. What’s your name?”

 

He cocked his head, curious as to where she was going with this.  “Godric,” he replied.

 

Lily smiled widely. “ Nice to meet you Godric; we are no longer strangers for I now know your name.” He laughed,  the small child was clever indeed.

 

“I suppose you are right.” She nodded, pleased she had won.

 

She remembered the first question she had asked her new friend. “Why are you out here tonight? I haven’t seen you around before.”

 

Godric nodded. “I am out here hunting. Why are you out here?”

 

Lily was puzzled at first. “Unless you wish to catch a rabbit, there isn’t much in these woods. I’m here because they called to me as they do every full moon. They call me to dance in the moonlight.” This surprised Godric. Was this child ill? She must be if she was hearing voices.

 

“Who calls to you Ma petite?”

 

It was her turn to tilt her head, “ The spirits, they call to me. Do they call to you, too?” He shook his head,processing everything she has said.  A sudden noise  behind Lily had Godric’s fangs out and he got into in a defensive crouch. Lily, noticing the two white sharp points protruding from his mouth, looked surprised. A loud howl from close by startled her and she spun around.

 

“Who’s out there? I am not afraid of you!“ Turning to Godric she urged him to,  “Run Godric! I’ll hold them off.” Godric chuckled at the bravery of the little girl in front of him. Surely she must the strangest creature he had ever known.

 

“I am fine child.  You should go home. I fear you will not dance this night.”

 

Lily shook her head. “ I am not leaving you alone! Besides the noise is coming from the path I have to take to get back home.”

 

He nodded; brave, but still a child. “Very well but stay behind me.” She looked at him and nodded.

 

Snarling echoed in the little clearing and Lily jumped, and turned around to see a huge snarling wolf flanked by one other wolf.  She had seen wolves before. Sheba, her pet wolf, was still in the house back home. She was wishing she had brought her on this outing.

 

The bigger black wolf jumped at her. She closed her eyes, but opened them again when she realized the wolf hadn’t hit her. Instead, it lay broken and bleeding  a couple of feet away, and the second one was engaged with the Godric.

 

Lily watched her savior, engrossed in his every move, as Godric and the wolf  seemed  to go blow for blow with each other: Each striking and blocking until she heard a loud yelp and the ripping of fur. Godric turned and took in the shaking form before him. He walked up to her, but still maintained  some distance, “Are you scared of me now?” Godric’s voice sounded somewhat forlorn at the thought of this tiny human being scared of him.

 

Lily shook her head,  “No, you killed the bad wolves, why would i fear you. You are all messy. Come on, there is a stream not far away where you can wash.” She took his hand and led him further into the woods.

 

It was about fifteen minutes  before they came across the stream: She let his hand go. Godric decided to accept her offer and started to bathe. He smiled when he realised she had her back to him: Most likely to give him privacy. He couldn’t help but think how cute she really was. Something in his heart tugged at his mind. He just didn’t know  what it could be.

 

He thanked the Gods that he could clean up faster than a human. “You can turn around now. I’m done washing.”

 

Lily turned around smiling. “Can I touch them?” He looked at her curiously for a minute. What was she talking about? Lily sensed  he hadn’t known what she meant. “Your fangs. May I touch them?”  

 

He nodded and  dropped his fangs again. “You are not  afraid of me? I could kill you  right here and no one would find you.”

 

She shrugged, “If you were going to kill me I would be dead and you wouldn’t have  killed those wolves. “

 

Godric laughed; this human was too much. “ Do you still want to dance in the moonlight?” He asked. She nodded, so Godric took her hand and pulled her close and spun her  around and around. until Lilly started to yawn. Godric brought her back in the direction her scent had come from.

Once he arrived at the pale blue porch he woke her up. Sleepily she rubbed her eyes as he placed her on her feet and she smiled up at him. “Will you be my friend?” He smiled. He wanted to say yes, but what place would she have in his world? Lily, not being as naive as most  eleven year olds added, “Will I at least get to see you sometimes?”

 

He smiled and shrugged, “Maybe sometimes.”

 

She nodded and  threw her arms around his waist. “Night Godric, thank you again.” She was up the stairs and in the house before he could speak.

 

The next morning Agatha was sitting at her kitchen table eating a muffin when she heard the distinct footsteps of her niece.  That girl couldn’t walk quietly to save her life she mumbled to herself. Taking one last peaceful sip of her coffee she waited for the energetic ball of energy she was about to get hit with.

 

Agatha hadn’t even looked up from the paper in her hands before a musical, “Good morning Aunt Aggy! Guess what I did last night?”

 

Putting the paper down and out of the reach of anything remotely liquid, she asked, “Oh? What did you do last?”

 

Smiling, and without missing a beat  she said, “I met a superhero, and he saved me from some huge bad wolves. Not wolves like my Sheba, these were huge aunty, and mean. But Godric the superhero killed them and I showed him where he could wash up in the stream. He was like that Logan guy from X-men, only his pointy weapons were in his mouth. Isn’t that cool Agatha? I met a real hero!”

 

Agatha listened calmly as her eleven year old niece rambled about her night out. She was concerned about this superhero though.  He was most likely a vampire. Dangerous! The vampire could have killed Lilly, but he didn’t. Why? Leave it to her niece to meet a vampire, and most likely befriend it. So much like her mother!

 

“And did you do anything else last night?”

 

Lily nodded excitedly “He put me on his toes and we danced in the moonlight together. But then I must’ve fallen asleep because  when I woke up I was home.” Lilly watched with interest as her aunt nodded, deep in thought. Taking this time to grab an apple, she called to Sheba who dutifully bounded to her side.

 

“Aunt Aggy I am going to go play in the flowers today. Is that okay?”

 

Agatha nodded, “ But after lunch it’s school time.”

 

Lily nodded  so fast she looked like a bobble head. “ Yes Aunty, I’ll be in round lunch time.” Lily kissed her aunt on the cheek before she skipped out the door.

The rest of the day went by too slowly for Lily’s taste. She couldn’t help  daydreaming about her fanged hero. Agatha  couldn’t shake the feeling that she should just let it be, that she shouldn’t be worried, but what parent would be okay with a vampire hanging around their child? For the first time she doubted the powers that be. Lily is just a child, she should be allowed to be a child. Agatha sighed. She had known from the start that this child  was one of the otherworld: That she would walk in both worlds, this one and the next. She had been born under the sign of the crow: The messenger between this life and the next.

 

The clock on the wall struck 4:30pm and she looked over at a studying Lily. She had finished her normal school work and was reading a book of Prophecy and fortune telling. It was full of old family  visions dating  hundreds of year back. Lily looked up, a question written on her face.

“What is it Lily?”

 

Lily  bit her lip for a minute, “The spirits told me to tell you the answer you seek you already know.  And a Whisper of death? They went silent after that.”

 

Agatha could feel her stomach turn and was sure her eyes had gotten huge. The only Prophecy she could think of was the one where it said that a child born to their bloodline would face death and befriend him: She would embrace death and take death within herself. Was her niece the child?

 

She half wanted to lock Lily away, she didn’t want  her to die. Then again, prophecies were never without metaphors. She knew she would not be able to keep Lily away from her destiny, so she would prepare her as best she could. But first she would seek out this Godric when Lily was  asleep.

 

10:30 Pm that night.

 

Agatha  wandered out to the clearing she knew her niece visited. Seated on a  rock, she waited  to meet the vampire who, she had reasoned, would be there. She didn’t have to wait long.

 

“Evening. You are not my little friend. Is she not well?” A voice said from the darkness.

 

Agatha stood, her shoulders tense but not overly so. “What do you want with Lily?”

 

Godric’s eyebrows raised. “She was wandering alone in the woods,” he shrugged. “I killed the wolves which were threatening her. She is enchanting and clever for her age.”

 

Agatha nodded.  “Did you taste her?”

 

His brow furrowed. “Did she say that I did?”

 

Agatha shook her head. “No she didn’t.”

 

He nodded, relieved. “I did not. I do not feed on children. If you wish for me to never come back I will.”

 

Agatha thought for for a few moments too long, so Godric nodded and started to walk off, but stopped when the woman sighed and spoke, “No, stay. She doesn’t make friends easily. I fear it’s because she is not exactly of this world.”

 

He nodded his understanding. “ Yes I sensed that, what is she?”  

 

Agatha sighed; she might as well tell him. “It all started long ago, with our Ancestor Cassandra of Delphi. She found favor with the Gods so they blessed her with the gift of talking to spirits, to commune with the dead. She acted as a seer, or soothsayer if you would. Cassandra passed beyond the veil, and her daughter was granted the gift, but Cassandra’s granddaughter could only see the future.

 

She had not received the same gift as her mother. Soon the gifts passed into myth, with only a few of us practicing the old ways. My twin and I had the strongest traces of the gift than has been seen in many years. I can not have children of my own. My sister conceived, but died shortly after. Lily, she feels the pull stronger than any of us. I fear she may have the full gift of Cassandra.”

 

Godric stood thinking over everything he had heard and what he knew of Lily. Agatha just watched as the man in front of her seem to be lost in his own mind. “I don’t think I can really leave her alone, not after last night: She has my interest. And I would like to be her friend.”

 

Agatha nodded and spoke, her voice stern. “Remember Death, she is just a child.”

 

He nodded his agreement, “You remember, witch: If she is what you say, she is also an old soul trapped in a young body. ”

 

Agatha nodded. “Do not tell her you go by death. Promise me vampire, on your honor.”

 

Godric was mildly surprised at her request but nodded. “I promise I will not tell her I am Death.” Pleased with that, Agatha  turned and walked away. Godric stood silently and looked at the sky. What had he gotten into?

 

Three days Later

 

Lily found herself once again walking the familiar path to her magical sanctuary. When her  small bare feet  felt the sweet cool grass, she couldn’t keep a smile off her face. There sitting on the grass was Godric. Filled with glee, she ran to him and sat herself on his lap. Over the past few nights it had become their routine. Where they would meet in the clearing and talk about their day.

 

“Good evening little one, how was your day? You smell of lavender and freesia.”

 

Lily smiled and nodded. “You said you liked those smells.” Her eyes  tracing once again the tattoo around his neck. Finally feeling brave enough, she brought her index finger up to trace the marking. Godric smiled at her as she looked into his eyes.

 

“And how was your day rest?” She asked in return. He smiled at her simple acceptance of who he was.

 

Letting out an unneeded  breath he responded, “It was peaceful Lily.Thank you for asking. Did you learn anything new today?”  She smiled up at him and nodded. “Yes, I learned about candles and how to make them.” He smiled at how proud she seemed to be over making candles. “That is a very handy thing to know. You know back in my day we made candles too.It was one of the few ways to see in the dark.” She nodded, understanding his words.

 

“Godric, can I ask you something?” Her attempt at a serious face was just too cute in his mind. But instead of laughing as he wanted to, he return her seriousness.

 

“You, Lily, may ask me anything you want. I promise to answer you the best I can.” Lily nodded as she thought about the words she wanted to say. “What does this mean? Where did you get it?” She hadn’t stopped tracing his markings. “It is a symbol of my people Little one. It means protection: It granted to the best warriors and and those of higher ranking families like chiefs.” Lily just looked up at him, letting his words absorb into her ever growing mind. Godric hoped she understood. She seemed quite smart, but he was not the best judge of human children.

 

“Godric were you a prince? How did you become a vampire? I read about Vampires? Say are you Vampire Prince?!” Whatever he had thought she would ask,he wasn’t expecting a rapid fire questions.

 

“I was a chief’s son when I was human. I was also a great warrior. No, I am not a prince among Vampires. I am, of course, respected for my age.”

 

Lily remembered she didn’t know his age. “ How old are you?”

 

He smiled a toothy grin. “ I am over  2,000 years old. Does that scare you?”

 

She shook her head. ”No you don’t scare me. You are my hero. You won’t hurt me ever! Right?”

 

He smiled softly at the trusting little girl. He couldn’t remember the last time he smiled this much outside of a battle. “You have nothing to fear from me child, but I am no hero.”

 

Lily pouted for a few minutes. “You are my hero! And you can’t say different!” He nodded, letting her words echo in his head. This little child had  won over his cold heart.

 

“If you say so Princess Lily. May I have this dance?”

 

She smiled as she got to her feet. “I would love to Prince Godric.” They smiled as Godric twirled her around on his feet until she started to yawn. Godric held her to his chest as he flew her back to her home and handed her to her aunt  who smiled.

 

“I shall see her tomorrow night,” he kissed Lily’s forehead. “ Good night ma petite. Sleep and dream.” WIth that Godric  took his leave into the night.

 

One Year later

 

Lilly was excited.  It was her birthday, and it was a full moon. The fullness of the moon meant she would dance with her spirit friends, but not before talking with Godric. She remembered  over the past year every conversation they’d had. He had been so many places, and seen and done extraordinary things. She had found out he had lived in  Rome. He said it was where he got the red disk on his shoulder, but he never said what it meant. And the feelings she would get from him made her scared to touch it. She had some scars herself that she wasn’t very fond of, but Godric would kiss a new scar and say that it showed how strong she was.

 

It was around that time he had started to teach her the basic forms of self defense: Showing her how to use her size to her advantage. She had gotten so good she could topple Godric, though she often expected he let her. But she would take a win wherever she could get it. Her feelings she knew were changing.

 

She had also started what her aunt Aggy said was her frequent visit from Aunt Flow, and that she was turning into a lady. All she knew was that every time she thought of Godric,  a warm fluttering feeling in her stomach would overcome her. She cared so much for her dark knight,  that even the thought of seeing him brightened even the worst of days.

 

The thought of verbalizing that she thought he was her Dark knight made her laugh. He was so not Batman. He didn’t wear a cape, or need fancy gadgets. All he need was his fists!

 

The clock on her dresser told her that her Aunt’s coven would be coming over to celebrate her birthday before they would go out for the night. Tonight  was one of their Holy days, and Lily would be spending the time with Godric. Agatha had even invited him to their house.

 

The voices of the spirits would  start to whisper after sunset, just before the tugging in her chest would draw her to the clearing. Their clearing, as if the universe was calling them to be together.

 

“Lily come on, the party is about to start. Get down here, everyone is here.” Letting a sigh slip from her lips, she made her way down the stairs and into the gathering crowd of over zealous women. You would swear they were old grandmothers by how much they pinched her cheeks. She put on her best smile and just rolled with it all: That is until one very nosey lady came into view.

 

Grace Mathis appeared to have everyone’s good on her mind. But Lily hated her! The voices always warned her about Grace and her coven. She even warned her Aunt that they were not good people. But Agatha never listened, and so Lilly stopped talking.

 

“My Lilly, you have grown, haven’t you? You Aunty says you are almost of age to join us. What do you think? Are you excited?” Lily smirked. She would love to show that crone where she could shove that invite. But she knew her aunt would be mad and she didn’t want to risk her visit with Godric so she bit her tongue.

 

“I am unsure Lady Grace, I am sure it would be an honor to join your coven. However, I have not yet declared a power or a specific skill set. Unlike my aunt, who is a healer. But I shall keep your invitation in mind. Now if you would please excuse me? I need to find my aunt.”  Grace was pleased  at the girl’s answer but still not content. She wanted the girl like she had wanted her mother. The poor mother though! The voices in her head drove her mad.  Grace couldn’t help smirk. Poor Olivia. Falling from that height! All because the spirits told her too. Maybe her daughter would prove to be much stronger.

 

Lily hated the party! There were soft whispers about the poor crazy girl who would fall sick from the voices in her head. But they never pushed too much as to why Lily had never been to a meeting, unlike the other kids. It was just not healthy for a girl of her age to have no friends. Lily just smirked. Her best friend could kill all of them in a second if he wanted to. Her best friend was older and smarter than anyone at the party.

 

The sun setting was the coven’s cue to leave and meet somewhere else. Agatha kissed her forehead  before saying good night. Lily went upstairs and changed into something more comfortable. Jeans and a purple top. She grabbed her jacket since it promised to be a chilly night. She jumped off the porch steps and made a beeline for the woods until a musical tenor laugh stopped her from going further. She spun around  squealing, “GODRIC!!!” She ran and jumped into his arms and he held her close.

 

“Lily how was your big day?”  

 

She  smiled her biggest smile. “It dragged on forever! I couldn’t wait until sunset! Those crazy friends of my aunt’s came over and they felt weird. The voices tell me they are not good people. So thank the Gods you’re here. What are we doing tonight?”

 

Godric sighed, shaking his head. “How about you start by telling me your day then I will give you a gift?” Lily nodded happily and launched into a full on story about everything she did that day, pausing only after Godric sat on the ground and she sat in his lap.

 

“Sounds like a busy day Ma petite. Now I have something special for you.” He took out blue velvet box and handed it to her. Curious as to what it was, she looked at him and he chuckled, “well then? Open it.” Lily didn’t need to be told twice.

 

In the box on a white gold chain sat a blue lilly. She smiled  back at Godric  and then back at the necklace, “Will you put it on me?” Godric nodded and slid the chain around her neck.

 

“You will always be my little flower.” She settled back against him and they fell into their normal questions until the night drew to the peak of the moon and the feeling to dance was at its strongest. So they danced. Lily closed her eyes this time, wanting to stay this way. But Godric had a different plan. “Open your eyes Lily. Look where we are!” Lily squealed again as she saw they were flying a few feet off the ground. After  they finished dancing it had gotten really cold out, so Godric took her back home and tucked her into her bed.

 

“Godric never leave me…I love you..”

 

Before he could reply she was out cold. His kissed her forehead whispering, “I will never let you go my little flower. Think of me when you hold your necklace close and dance around in  our little clearing. I will be there even if you can’t see me.”

 

The sound of her Aunt’s car  came to a halt as Godric heard a car door close. He sped downstairs as Agatha entered the house. The look on Godric’s face told her she was in for a very serious conversation.

 

“Do you have minute to talk with me? She is asleep and won’t hear us.”

 

Agatha nodded and led the way into the kitchen. “What is on your mind Godric? “ She was curious, since the last time they talked like this she had warned him about her niece.

 

“In several years time Vampire are going to reveal themselves. This, we suspect, will be a hard and dangerous road. And the high council of supernaturals has decided that those who are oldest and strongest should lead our kind to peace with the general populace: If we are successful more may step forward.”

 

Agatha took his words and thought them over before replying. “And what does this have to do with Lily?”

 

Godric’s face fell. “I have been chosen to take the throne of Texas: my life is too dangerous for now. It  could  be much worse in the future. I meant to say goodbye  to her tonight but  she was so happy and then she just passed out.”

 

Agatha nodded, “It was probably for the best. It’s going to hurt her to see you leave. Will you be back?”

 

Godric stopped to think for a minute before deciding it probably wasn’t wise to return.

 

“Not for a long time, if ever, so watch over my little flower. She should probably go to normal school and make friends. Surely she will be able to find them.”

 

Agatha nodded. “The sun is coming up, you should go. And good luck with everything.” He nodded and flew off into the sky.

 

Four years later

 

Lily made her way  down the moonlit path her feet knew so well. Her spirit  answering the spirit’s call to dance. Maybe she would run into Godric. She doubted it though, since he had stopped coming around four years back. Why? She didn’t know. She often thought she had done or said something for him to be mad about. But each time she would ask he wouldn’t answer. But tonight, surely tonight her vampire  would be there waiting for her and they would dance in the moonlight, and maybe she would get the courage to tell him she loved him. He looked no older than 17 and she was 16 now, not a big difference to her anyway.

 

The familiar smell of flowers was comforting to her;they gave her an odd sense of strength. Soon the beat she often heard in her heart started and she began her dance around the clearing: Spinning, twirling dancing her heart out. All the while praying to the moon to send her Godric to her. The moon peaked in the sky and her movements got faster and faster  until the energy inside her rose to the surface so fast and hard it took her breath away. She could feel the energy rising to the sky, an offering to the moon and the spirits. The energy inside her body around the full moon  got stronger every year. This started just after she met Godric and got worse as she felt his absence in the years after.

 

What happened to him? She often wondered if he was okay. She would know if he wasn’t alright. Surely the spirits would tell her?  He was a vampire after all, but he still had a soul: She could see it!  As the night dragged on her heart fell into despair. Why did her only tangible friend leave her?  She never felt like a freak when he was around. Her aunt had long since stopped homeschooling her, insisting that she go to public school. Agatha had wanted her to make normal friends. Sure, like it was going to be easy. What would she say.  Hi, I’m Lily. Do you know you have a spirit following you? It’s your grandmother, and she she says she loves you. Oh, and once a month I dance under the moon where this energy  rises to the moon. Wanna be my friend?

 

Lily scoffed at the idea at first. But she tried harder to make friends as the years passed and Godric never showed. Snapping out of her memory she sighed loudly into the darkness.

 

“I guess tonight marks the last time I shall pray to the moon to give me my friend back. It is time to put away childish notions. So mote it be  I will leave this night and remember fondly the past and let it be that: The past. One such as I am is better off in the here and now. Goodbye Godric, wherever you be, I hope you are well and happy.” With that she gathered her blanket and some food she had brought and made the  walk back home.

 

Her Aunt was sitting on the porch waiting for her. Agatha was all smiles when she saw Lily  approach the house. “Did you have a good dance tonight?”

 

Lily shrugged, “The spirits got what they wanted as usual. I am going to bed, I have school tomorrow. I don’t think I will dance the next full moon. I have midterms that week.” Agatha took in the defeated  form of her once vibrant niece.

 

A few years ago she had realised that Lily had fallen in love with Godric. And Godric knew this too, but  he had stopped coming altogether. And Agatha enrolled her in public school.

 

Agatha had written Godric a few weeks ago, asking him to write Lily a letter for her birthday. Hoping that if she knew he was alive she would be alright, but no letter came. And Agatha’s guilt weighed heavy on her soul. What had she done to her Niece!  They should have had Godric explain things to Lily instead of just disappearing.

 

Three months later..

 

Agatha had gotten the mail and she smiled. There were two letters: One to her and one to Lily. She brought the mail inside and sat at her table and opened her letter and read it.

 

Dear Agatha ,

 

I am sorry my letters will not reach you in time for her birthday. I do hope it was a good one. You wrote to me about how sad she has become. I am sorry to hear that. I am hoping she has made many friends by now. Does she still dance under the stars?  I regret my choice of walking away from her. But we are right, she has no place in my world. She should remain innocent as long as possible. I hope this finds you well.

 

Godric.

 

Agatha let out a breath and grabbed a pen to answer his letter. She couldn’t wait until Lilly came home, her little girl may just smile again.

 

Agatha had just finished making cookies when Lily came home.

 

“Hey Lily come in here for a minute please,” she said as soon as she heard the door close. “I have a letter for you.”

 

Lily walked down the hall and into the kitchen. “A letter from who?”

 

Agatha frowned and responded, “Whom,” and almost immediately looked apologetic, “Sorry, a throwback to homeschooling you.” She then smiled and handed her the letter. Lily read the return address and the name … Godric had sent her a letter! part of her was curious as to what he had to say: The other had stopped caring. She tossed the letter on the table and shrugged.

 

“Thanks Aunt Agatha. Maybe I’ll read it later. I have homework, then I think I’ll spend the afternoon reading the tomes. I have Tae Kwon Do tonight, too, so I need to stretch before I go. I think I will take aikido next, it sounds like it would be a good workout.”  It wasn’t lost on Agatha how much Lily kept busy, but she never saw Lily  go to the clearing any more.

 

She could tell Lily hadn’t been dancing by Lily’s increase in frustration. Her little girl was going to snap if she didn’t express her soul.

 

Lily had  reached her room and closed the door. Her hand was shaking as she held the letter: The need to read his words, to know how he was weighing on her mind. A voice within her whispered, “Do you really want to read his lies? Do you want to know how he has forgotten you? You are a child compared to him. Why would he wait for you. You don’t even know if he really loves you?”

 

She couldn’t take it anymore so she threw her letter in her closet and opened her book to the chapter on the history of England. Once she was satisfied she had jotted thorough notes on the matter she  went to the little library in the house and picked up a small but very thick book.The title read Prophecies of Cassandra. A sudden zap of energy made her drop the book. When she bent to pick it up she saw another book shoved  behind the rest. As she pulled that one from its hiding spot she opened the cover. There was no title to this one, so she read the first page.

 

To my daughter.

Lily, if you are reading this then I am no longer with you, and for this I am truly sorry. I wrote this after I had a dream. And I caution you  to  keep this book safely hidden. If you found this book then the spirits deemed it time for you to know the truth about my death. And if you are not 18 when find this, you are in danger.

 

Lily closed the book, and grabbed the book of Prophecies: She had heard of Cassandra, but never really saw any books about her or everything she saw. What was up with the cryptic  book from her mom. What did the spirits know of this?

 

She could hear footsteps on the stairs. “ Lily? Are you still up here?” She stashed the book under the one of prophecies and walked toward her room.

 

“Yes, Aunt Agatha I haven’t left yet. I think I may just stay home: I am feeling kind of sick.” There was a pause, and for minute Lily held her breath. She hoped her aunt wouldn’t ask questions. Tonight was one of those nights her aunt went with her coven.

 

“Oh, alright. Take it easy kiddo. Okay? Dont over do it.”

 

Sighing in relief she replied. “ I promise, I’ll probably stay in bed and eat some noodles. Anyway, have fun at your gathering.”  Lily heard her aunt go back down the stairs, and once she heard the door shut she flipped open her mother’s book and read on.

 

You can not trust my sister. I know this will be hard, but you need to trust me. She my not be acting the same way she used to, you wouldn’t have noticed.

 

We were young when we moved to the house you are in now. Our parents, your grandparents, were fair and hardworking. My mother was the oldest daughter in her family, as I was a few minutes older than Agatha, and you my only daughter. You know by now that you are not normal. You never were meant to be. You hear the Spirits of our  Ancestors, and those of the ancient beings of old. My mother met a woman by the name of Gracie Mathis and they became great friends.

 

It wasn’t long before my mother and father started to fight. And soon life became a living hell. I was 18 when my mother died. She was  found in a clearing not far from our house.  My father and I found her. The spirits led me to her before she bled out. No one could figure out how she had gotten cut so deeply and we never found the knife or a suspect, so the case was dropped. But I kept being drawn to the clearing. It is our sanctuary. I can only surmise my mother gave her life to make sure I was safe, and you are safe, in that clearing.

My father was devastated and he clung to Gracie, my mother’s best friend. My father buried himself in his work, leaving Agatha and I under the eye of Gracie.

 

Since I was 18, I could move away: And I did. That is when I met your father, Ken Thompson.

 

We fell in love in the college dorm I had been living in. I majored in the plants and flowers. Your father studied architecture.

 

When my father died, we moved back home. At this time you were little over a year.

 

Your father tested positive for cancer: It was stage four Brain cancer. He got to hold you once before he stopped fighting. The doctors  never knew how someone as healthy as your father could, out of the blue, get cancer. No other tests were positive before.

 

I am sorry sweety. It is really hard for me to write this. Even the thought that I won’t see you grow kills me inside. Gracie came through for us again. And Agatha and I  joined her coven. She soon approached me and told me she knew about the voices and she could help me translate them better, and get them to work for me. So I started training with her and I got stronger than I ever thought possible.

 

The voices did get quieter and quieter. And my paranoia grew by leaps and bounds. Only the potion Gracie gave me would help put off the anxiety and pain.

 

I came across this book of Cassandra, the one you most likely  have next to you. There was a prophecy. Find it and read it. And do something for me. After you graduate you run baby girl, and you run far and fast. Do not drink anything Gracie gives you. She is the one who killed me. And she is the one your aunt is close to. Agatha may not know what is going on, but you need to be careful. Go to the clearing as much as you can. Seek help from the spirits. You are powerful, you just don’t fully understand it.

Remember even in the darkest night there is always a light. I love you.

 

Lily slammed the book shut, tears rolling down her face. She had known Gracie was bad news. Gracie had her aunt in her grasp right now! She grabbed the letter she had stashed and her book and ran back to the clearing. Back to where she had found her peace, where she found her heart.

 

 

 

CYRA’S POV

 

The room is nice and smells of Freesia: A flower my mother used to always have in the house. How odd, a taste of home. I place my bags on the bed and  start toward the bathroom as I disrobe.Taking in my appearance in the mirror, I can’t help but notice the blood on my neck and chest. I even notice the slight bruising  where the Were who grabbed my neck had squeezed. The rest of my body didn’t seem as bad off though, so that was a plus. Turning on the  hot water, I slide into the shower and start to wash away the blood from every part of my body, taking my time  to enjoy the water and steam.

 

My mind couldn’t stop wondering about the girl I had saved. I mean was she really okay? Of course, her vampire’s blood would heal her, but who goes off one of their own when a member of their respective family had been taken? Did she have a death wish? Not that I could talk too much.:When mom died I did drop off the map. Though it wasn’t like I couldn’t handle myself. And my Ya-Ya knew where to find me in a blink, literally in a blink. I wouldn’t put it past her to appear out of thin air. I pull myself from my thoughts and think about my mission.. Find the one called Pam: help retrieve and secure Pamela Swynford De Beaufort.  And assist in the death of one Russell Edgington. I was not to interfere with anything else!

 

My  Ya-Ya’s instructions were very firm about that last part.I had been walked through the spell my Ya-Ya  had used to aid against Russell’s maker. I just needed to figure out how to make it into something that could be used as a host until the very last minute before it’s used. Closing my eyes, I massaged my head as I washed any blood from it. After all this, I would get to meet my father. What changed? I had asked often over the years, only to receive vague answers and the run around. I’d bet he is tall and his eyes will match mine.I just had to help the one called Godric find Pamela. I needed to tell him about the brand I saw. I could feel the water cool and decided to get out and dry off: Hiding in the shower would not help me achieve my objective.

 

Selecting a pair of black loose fitted pants and a v- neck purple t-shirt and my flat shoes, I walked down the stairs to see what looked like a mediating Godric. I took a minute to take in his form. I could see why people would find him attractive. I mean, he is extremely attractive. I felt a pull inside me to got to him so I did: My instincts are hardly ever wrong.

 

“Did you enjoy your shower?” I smiled of course he knew i was approaching. He was a vampire after all!  “I did, thank you. Does meditation really help you find inner peace?” He chuckled and I couldn’t help but smile.

 

“It can, when little girls aren’t trying to sneak around a vampire.”

 

I could feel myself turn red, “I’m sorry but I need to speak with you.”

 

He nodded, “I figured you would. Is it about the attack today?” I nodded solemnly at him.

 

“Yes, the Werewolves, they had a mark on them. It matched the same one from Project Werewolf. I know that only because I have read many books for my studies. My Ya-Ya keeps impeccable records. She said you once sought her wisdom on such a matter. She continued to track the wolves movements.”

 

He nodded, “I know who they belong to, but I ask that you say nothing in front of my child, and guard your mind against Sookie.”

 

I nodded at his request. “No worries there. I can’t be read unless I want to be .A gift I got from my father, or so I was told. Either way, I will keep you updated, and tomorrow I will start prepping for the spell to find Pam.”

 

He nodded, flashing me a half smile. “Thank you, but you should eat something. I can hear my child stir, Sookie must be waking up. In the kitchen you will see her cook. I am sure he will make you some food, and we will talk more tonight. But this night is dwindling and the sun will be up soon.

 

G POV

 

I made my way  down the stairs  to my usual room when I stay here. Cyra’s confessions, although unneeded, just confirmed my fears. Russell  has Pam and there is only one  way to get her back. I will have to make a call to Rowena when I rise. I will have to ask her when she will arrive, and if she can keep my child busy so I can sneak away. The only way to save Pam would be to give myself to him. By the time Eric would figure it out  I would be most likely finally gone. I would need to leave a letter for him explaining everything.

 

My one regret is that I wouldn’t be able to get to know Cyra. I think we could have gotten along had I met her a few years back. Cyra, if she is anything like her mother, she will be hard to get by. Stripping down to my boxers, I settle into my bed and let myself go into down time.

 

Before the dawn can take me, my phone rings, pulling me out of the pleasant void of thoughts.

 

“Hello ,Rowena. To what do I owe this pleasure?” The fact  that she  called this close to sunrise is curious.
“Morning Godric, Listen here you stubborn Idiot! Don’t you dare do what you’re thinking of! Of all the foolish things you could plan to do! Do you really think going to him will solve anything! I will be there on Thursday. I have been held up, so that’s in two days. We will talk of this then. For all our sakes don’t be stupid. Rest well old friend.” Click, Ah good old Rowena. So demanding and to the point. And that all seeing Mother of hers. They can not stop me from saving Pamela. I will go through with my original plan. With thoughts  of how I would make my plan work, I fell into my day rest.

 

 

 

 

ERIC POV

 

Ever since Pam  was taken, I knew I had not been myself but I had harmed my soon to be Bonded. I may not have have hit her, and I would never do so, but I still blamed her just a little for losing Pam. What good is having juiced up fairy powers if you can’t use them? Then again she is in the middle of maturing and we were told that her powers could fade in and out. Pam should have been on guard, but why did it take Sookie so long to meet up with her? Sookie was not one to shop without a purpose. Looking at her sleeping form, I could feel guilt tighten in my  chest. I had driven her to leave. I had driven her to try to figure it out alone. I had thought that once my maker had  arrived, his calm and steady emotions would have helped. But that is not what happened.

 

Something had changed in the old man. He was a far cry from his earlier days as Death. There was a storm behind his calm facade. He was hiding something, and if this had been any other time I would have sought out what it was. But with my child gone, and the sleeping woman  in front of me causing trouble, I didn’t dare stray from my current path. Though what the hell was that girl! My maker was never one for maker’s commands? Who was she to him? And how was she an ally? She was younger than Sookie! I cut my wrist and put it to the lips of my sleeping beauty. I can feel the blood slide down her throat and absorb into her bloodstream.  I could have lost her forever. I need to get her more guards.

 

She will moan and groan but this is the last time I let her be in this position. I had thought that once that pathetic excuse for a vampire, Compton, was dead and gone she would wise up. And for awhile she had. Until to tonight! Did she really think it was going to be safe  going back there alone? She should have at least had Indira, or even Thalia, go with her. Looking over her prone body, I get the urge to turn her immediately. Fuck! Even if she hates me, at least she would still be be with me. But then Godric would  be angry since he had been turned against his will. I hung my head. This little fairy is going to get me killed, herself killed, and anyone else around her if she isn’t careful. I may have Godric speak to her: He is so much better at that than I am.

 

I groan as there is a shooting pain in my side, and I find myself groaning in pain. I need to find Pam, I can’t think clearly.  The  girl. What was her name? Did it matter? Not really, but she smelled of Were blood. But I knew she wasn’t a were, so Weres attacked Sookie. Were they the same  ones that took Pam? The blood smelled similar to that of the wolves from the night Pam was taken.  They could all be related to each other? Or maybe from the same pack?

 

They were just as tainted as the others… If my heart were still beating, it would have stopped. Vampire blood! They had all taken Vampire blood! But that would mean they..  they could be a lead! I have to speak to Godric. Though he probably identified the smell since he was so close to the girl. Again, what is she to him? Lover? Former lover? Doubtful since I knew almost all of his conquests.Unless they were before my time! But she could not be that old. There was just no way. She smelled completely like a normal witch So she had to be maybe twenty, maybe twenty-four? Youth these days age weird from back when I was human. A soft noise from my beloved’s lips drew my eyes to her face. Bright blue eyes were staring up at me.

 

“Eric how did I get here? You made it! You saved me!”

 

I shook my head, “You were rescued by Indira and Thalia, along with the help of a strange girl who is currently upstairs with Godric.”

 

Her eyes widened, “I’m sorry Eric. I thought that if I went back there, that I could help figure out what happened. You know, trigger a memory or something.” Her brow wrinkled as she thought for a moment, “Hey wait I did! The plant next to the bench I sat on that night after shoe shopping with Pam. It made me sleepy..i couldn’t keep my eyes open. What if the reason I couldn’t sense trouble was because i was knocked out.. But then why not take me too?” I leaned down and kissed her forehead gently.

 

“My love while i appreciate your willingness to help get Pam back, you could have been killed. And then once Pam was safe, I would have followed you to my final death.”

 

She looked at me as if she was about to cry. Gods I hate her tears! “I’m  sorry. I don’t ever want you to die. Even after i do. You need to live.”

 

I smiled at her, “Then so do you My Sookie, for I can not live without you.” Bending down, I kissed her, my tongue brushing against her lips to deepen the kiss. Gods, this is the last thing I need.

 

  

 

 

 

The commotion in the yard drew me out to the porch where I saw Eric pinning a raven haired beauty to a car. I watched with mild amusement  as he dropped her. I can not quite see what she really looks like since my child is blocking the view. The sound of her voice is melodious, and her scent is slightly familiar.

 

“Did you think I wouldn’t be protected. The window on her car  was broken when she was in the car. She got cut. Heal her and calm down. I am a friend.”  Then her eyes met mine and I froze.They were familiar, Ammira! No, I shook my head, it is impossible. I didn’t think things could get any worse: I had been wrong. I command my child to cause the raven haired woman no harm, and assure him that she is an ally before he does irreparable harm to a long standing friendship.  As the petite figure made her way to me I couldn’t breathe, not that I needed to by any means.

 

“Ammira?“ She shook her head and then tilted it in respect. “My name is Cyra, daughter of Ammira, Grand daughter of Rowena, and the great granddaughter of Cassandra.You must have known my mother: I am told I look a lot like her.”  This is Rowena’s granddaughter. Was that witch trying to give me the final death? There, standing before me, was the complete copy of my beloved Ammira. I had never known she had a daughter.

Then again, we were only lovers  for a short time.  “Yes,” I nodded, “I knew her well. I have known your Grandmother for a long time.” She nodded, “she has told me of you. Yes she has told me that you need a spell. She will be joining us in a couple of days. She was held up.” I nodded, still shocked  at her appearance, until i noticed she was covered in blood: I could smell it was Were.

 

“Were you attacked as well?”

 

,She shook her head and shrugged,  No, it was four on one. And the girl was in no form to fight for herself. I just couldn’t let them hurt her. It is just not in my nature.” I was amazed that she took on those weres alone. Then again, she came from a long line of Cardinal Witches: They were often fierce and dangerous, but only when they had to be. But they were still bound by the fates.

 

“There is a shower upstairs, and extra room if you want it.” I beamed at my child as he spoke to our guest. “My mate, Sookie, would offer it to you herself but she is still unconscious.”

 

Cyra nodded, “Quite understandable. Thank you Mr. Northman.”

 

He nodded, “Call me Eric , you saved her life. Thank you.”

 

Cyra nodded and turned to me, “Could you show me the way please? I would hate to stumble into the wrong room.” She flashed the smile her mother always used one me. She was a minx! Heaven help me. She is not Ammira!

 

Walking up the stairs, we turned a corner as I lead her to the room with a shower attached and motion for her to enter, W=which she did. I was face to face with her, her eyes pouring into my soul.

 

“I will see you later…” she pause and I remembered I had not introduced myself.

 

“Godric, and I will see you later as well, Cyra. ” She smiled and closed the  door.

 

I turned on my phone once I was back downstairs and begin to scroll through my contacts. Rowena’s name popped up before I could press send, so I answered it.

 

“You wanted to talk to me?” Figured, the old bat was still the same. “You didn’t tell me she would look like your daughter! I didn’t even know she had a child. Rowena, I can’t afford a distraction! When will you  be here?”

 

She laughed at me, actually laughed at me! If I didn’t need her, and if we weren’t friends…! “What? The great Gaul was thrown off his game by a young girl? Come now Godric, give her a chance. I can assure you she is trained to be professional. I am sure you can handle one girl Godric. Tell her stories of her mother if it will make you feel better.She is there to help you find Pamela. And maybe aid you any other way you may need.”

 

She was right, I just had to keep focused and plan how to save Pamela, and fix this before it gets worse. “I should have told you how much I loved her.That I would have turned her if she had wanted me to. I would of saved her. And now you offer me her daughter? What if I can’t protect her either?”

 

She sighed before speaking, “She will be my replacement Godric, she is more powerful than her mother. I can not go into detail right now, but you will see, my little Cyra will surprise you. Now, I must go . Do have a good evening.” Before I could say anything else she hung up. I raced to the kitchen to get another True Blood.

 

Women! In all my existence I am still no closer to understanding them than before. I knew Rowena was playing her games. But to what point this time? Not that I had the time to figure it out! I had Pam to save  Sookie to protect, and I still had to tell Eric at some point about my brother.
Human’s say things get easier with age. Not for me it seemed. Still Cyra’s rolled of the tongue. Her smell was nice, and her skin looked soft and smooth. I almost wanted to  brush my fingers along her cheek and caress her, those feelings were not the same as the ones I’d had have before. No, I was fond of this girl because of who her mother had been to me. Now it would be like putting my Ammira into a pit of vipers. Looking out the window at the sky I whispered, “Forgive me my beloved.” I could only hope she would forgive me where ever she was.

 

 

 

 

CPOV

 

The Airplane reached the landing strip forty-five minutes later than it should have. I wasn’t supposed to arrive for another day, but my Grandmother sent me earlier than my great grandmother Cassie had wanted since apparently if I waited until the appointed time something terrible would happen, and that I was to meet her vampire friend  in Bon Temps. I tossed my bag into the  back of my rental car and slid into the driver’s seat and peeled out of the parking lot. Before I went to do my Grandmother’s bidding I had a date with destiny first. And some new clothes.

 

I pulled into the mall parking lot in Shreveport: I had felt a pull to go there for some reason. My training told me to always follow that feeling when it showed up,. so I did.

 

My hand was on the door to the mall, just about to pull it open when a scream and the sound of breaking glass echoes across the parking lot. Without a thought I rushed in the direction I thought the sounds came from, willing my magic to rise to the surface, prepared to react to my will. It usually it took a minute to get my magic going since I was far too young to have a lot of control over the power I had. I felt Apala, my silver dagger, in my hand. seemingly without my having to think about summoning it, must have been the adrenaline. Fortunately I didnèthave much time to think on it.

 

There was a woman in trouble, and my senses told me that werewolves were involved.  Why did I have to always be right about these things? Grabbing the nearest Were , I tossed him to the side  with ease, making his buddy  turn and attack me. Moving my blade in an upward arc, I slashed his stomach, just in time to dodge a punch from my other side. I was going to need new clothes after the fight, and that shirt was cashmere!

 

It was splattered with blood, and now only good for the trash bin. I ducked left and then my fist connected with  one the brute’s jaws, and ended up shaking my hand from the impact. THIS IS INSANE!! What are these guys? Super Were’s? I could see the fear on the girl’s face before she passed out. Great just great!  The last Were left standing lunged at me: I blocked his attack but lost my footing.  And he soon has  me pinned against the hood of the car.

 

“You will pay for killing my brother you witch.” His breath stinks! Man did he ever hear of brushing his teeth or or Tic Tacs?  I turned my head to catch a breath of fresh air and there on his neck, clear as day  was, a brand. I had seen that brand once before in a book my Grandmother kept. But what was it? Not the time Cyra!  I could hear my Grandmother’s voice chiding me.

 

“You are just a scared little girl! Where is all that bravery, huh?” The Were sneered. He moved his hand to my throat and started to squeeze. He was choking me? Oh Hell no! I so was not going to die there and then! Not by that smelly mannerless Were at any rate.

 

I brought my hand  up as far as i could and willed Fire to burn him. And sure enough he yelled out loud  as he let go of me. Big mistake!. I kicked him in the stomach, using the hood of the car I was just on as leverage. I noticed a couple of the other guys were getting up. Just great, here I am winded and tired. “Don’t you boys know how to lay down and play dead!! At least I thought you would know the command stay!” There were growls all around me. Way to go my big mouth! I hazard a glance over at the blond in the car.She is passed out, Damn she will be no help. Suddenly I hear a swooshing sound  at my side and there next to me stood a very beautiful woman. She was of greek origins. The one next to her  was shorter looked more Argentine than Grecian. Again  NOT the time for this.  They were crouched in fighting stances the tall one looked at me.

 

“You must be an ally, you smell of the blood of the Were’s.” Her eyes  fell briefly on the passed out blond. “So much trouble!” She said as she shook her head. After, we finished them off  and one of them was taking care of the bodies When the taller one spoke again. “I am Indira, the one behind me is Indira, the sleeping girl behind you is my Mistress, Sookie. I ask you to come with me. I am sure my Sheriff would like to thank you in person. “

 

I backed up a few feet. “Nice to meet you Indira, I am Cyra.” I almost struck my hand out to shake hers, as is custom amongst breather, but remembered just in time that vampires were the exception to a lot of the rules we follow, “I was actually just gonna get some things before going to Bon Temps to meet my grandmother’s friend, give your Sherriff my regards.” I turned to walk away and back to my car when Thalia was suddenly in front of me.

 

“That was not an offer,” she growled. I think I saw the other vampire, Thalia, nodded. “And it just so happens that we are going  your way. My Mistress will ride with you since her car is in no condition to travel, and she is in condition to drive..” I sighed. Stupid demanding vampires!

 

“Yeah, put her the back seat where she can lay down. I just have to move some things to the trunk.” I walked back to my car and moved everything from the back seat to the trunk  and got out of the way  so they could place her on the back seat. Once she was securely in, I closed the door and got into the driver’s seat.

 

“Do you need a ride?” I asked, might as well be polite, even if they weren’t. The two Vampiresses shook their heads, “No, we will run  next to you for added security.” I nodded and sped out of the parking lot.

 

With my lead foot and love for speed I soon passed the sign saying that I was entering  Bon Temps.  My phone sounded and a line from Stevie Wonder’s Superstition played, Very superstitious, writing’s on the wall.

“Evening Ya-Ya.” I said once I put my phone on speaker phone. I listened for a moment,” Yes, I have the girl and she is safe, I am heading there now, with a vampire escort. Apparently she is the mate of the sheriff here.” I listened again, “No,  they are females. And yes, before you ask, I have the address you gave me.”

 

I sighed as the caller reminded me, yet again, to be careful. I’m young, not stupid,the two are not synonymous with each other! “I am glad you called though: The people who attacked tonight had some kind brand or tattoo that looked just like the one in the book you gave me. It was something about Operation Werewolf. Did we ever figure out who controlled those beasts?”

 

I paused, listening to her going on about how we hadn’t found anything out yet and that I was to keep it to myself until she arrived. What she said after that shocked me to my core. After all of this was done, I would finally get to see my father, a man I had only dreamed of seeing, no one  really ever talked about him, which gave me the feeling he was a huge secret or something. Was I really ready to face the man that had haunted my thoughts for so long. I guess I would just have see. But first I had a mission.  “Yes. No, sorry Ya-Ya, you took me by surprise, I’m sorry.”

 

There was more babbling on the other end of the phone, “yes I am focused  one hundred percent. I will see you soon. Tell Great Ya-Ya I said Hi and thanks alot for the warning.” She cackled! Not chuckled, but full on cackled!

 

The turn for Hummingbird Lane was sharp, but at least the driveway was nice. Not what you would think of these small towns, long driveways.

 

As I pulled up I could see the tallest and hottest man standing in the yard. His eyes were feral so I sat still. This must be the son of my Ya-Ya’s friend, I thought. I got out of the car slowly and threw my hands in the air. “She is safe, Vampire, just passed out,” I said quickly, just as he turned around and started towards me, hoping to get it all out before he attacked me. “I mean her no harm. She was attacked and I was on my way here when I stopped at the mall and heard her scream. Your friends can verify what I say as true,” I muttered the last part under my breath, hoping he wouldn’t hear me, but knowing he would anyway.

 

Thalia nodded, and this seemed to help, but then he  saw she had been cut. That must have happened when the glass broke. Before I could blink he had his hand tight around my neck. With quick gasp he dropped me and I sighed, thankful the protection spell had worked.

 

“Did you think I wouldn’t be protected? The window on her car was broken and  she was inside the car when it happened. Heal her and calm down. I am a friend.”  The next thing I knew  there was handsome man on the porch. “Eric,” he said, “as your maker I command you not hurt her. She is, indeed, a friend.” With those words I walked past the giant leering Vampire.

 

 

 

 

So I’m really happy and shocked at the responses I am getting. And so to say thank you I am post two chapters! Enjoy.

 

SPOV

I had to get out of that house. I love Eric, I do with my whole being. I just can not be around him right now! I heard him! Every freaking word! Fairy DRAMA… FAIRY DRAMA… Like I ever asked for this. Any of it! Ok, so when I was little I had wanted adventure and intrigue. Be careful what you wish for is right. How was I supposed to know my fairy powers would be on the fritz. Not like I had a magic road map on how they work! The fairies shut themselves away on a magical plane. And My dearest great-grandfather is nowhere to be seen.

I threw a bunch of clothes into my suitcase and grabbed my coat and bear that Eric won for me during our first date to the carnival. I made my way down the stairs, only to be cut off by Lafayette. “Where you think you going Honey chile? And what ya got all jammed up in that ‘ere bag?”


Good ole LaLa. He is always on the ball, always caring about me.

“I need a break for a little bit  LaLa I can’t stay here and it’s only for a few days I’ll be at Holly’s at any rate, if you need me.”

I had one foot out the door when a big, dark coloured hand landed on my shoulder. “Who trying to kid? Tall, blonde and sexy may not be up to par, but I know Holly told you she was going away for weeks last Friday. You don’t want me to tell  short, dark and sexy you going AWOL, do you.”

I sighed. Damn it! Caught! I would have gotten away with it if it wasn’t for LaLa. “Okay, Okay,” I surrendered, “you got me. I just need space so I’m going to be staying at a hotel in Shreveport. My day and night guards will be notified. All will be well. I promise La La.” I turned  on the puppy dog eyes, I knew he couldn’t say no to me.

 

He let me go, admonishing, “Call me when you get there Sunshine.” I nodded and closed the door.

 

Did I lie, just a little bit? Bet your ass I did.

 

Was I going to stay in a hotel? Yup.

 

Would it be in Shreveport? Yup.

 

Would my guards be there? Nope, well sort of.  Alcide was tracking me anyway and lord knows, I can’t escape Indira or Thalia, but I needed some time and freedom to go to the same mall and read minds. Someone had to have seen someone. I couldn’t shake it off. My instincts were screaming at me. Why couldn’t I remember much of that night?

I mean, I knew why my curse didn’t function right. But I didn’t hit my head. Yet I had lost time from when Pam and I split to after she was already gone. Where the hell did all that time go?

I pulled into the mall parking lot, parking as close to the store as I could. Maybe retracing my steps would help?

I  looked in the rearview mirror to make sure no one was watching from beyond my range, and taking the biggest breath of my life, I got out and walked up to the main entrance. I built my resolve up as I entered, thinking Come on Sookie, Gran didn’t raise a coward.

Inside the mall, I headed over to the last place I remembered. I had just bought some things and was admiring this strange plant. I had been to the mall plenty of times since meeting Pam, and didn’t remember ever seeing it before. Pam had rushed me along, so when we split up and I had bought what I wanted, I had gone back to the plant next to the bench. I had only meant to stay a minute.  Shopping with Pam can do a number on a girl’s feet.

 

As my thoughts return to the present ,I started to feel my eyes get heavy, but I had  gotten enough rest. And the normal hum of voices was gone. My eyes flew open. I couldn’t hear or sense anything. I needed to get off this bench. I rose to my feet  and a wave of caution and peril washed over my body. I needed to get to my car I needed to get to safety.  I made a move to  the exit when I heard a voice speak.

 

“Looks Like we caught an other fly in our trap boys!” I ran as fast as my feet could carry me.There were three of them and one of me, good thing I used to run track. I cleared the mall exit and headed straight to my car, though when I got there my tires were slashed. GREAT!  ERIC< ERIC if you can feel me, if you can hear me HELP?!

 

I got  in the car and locked the doors before dialing Indira; Thalia would be with her. And they would be at the hotel. One ring, two rings, three rings.

 

“Indira!” Thank the heavens!

 

“Where the hell are you Mrs.Northman?”

 

“I messed up. I’m at the mall where Pam was taken from and my tires are slashed!” I could hear a string of swears.The line went dead and I knew they were coming. But would I be here when they did?

The breaking of glass told me they wouldn’t make it in time.  

 

 

 

 

 

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT!!

 

Hello  Everyone it’s me  and not an update. But I’m not keeping you guys waiting long. So first thing is first. Drink Deeply and Dream is still in the works. I know, I know i have promised an update before and I swear I am writing. But I will also be re-writing chunks of it. Nothing to change the story line too much. Just enough to make flow better. I had someone read some of my work before I even started writing D D and D. They made me doubt my voice.

Well after my Amazing Beta Breathegirl or tj6james6 . And I realized  I was trying  to hard to sound like other writers and I wrote myself into a corner. Oooopsie….

Next I want to say thank you for all the reactions and support for Sins of the Father is getting.  I was only supposed to be  4 chapters long.Yeah I am currently working on 7 !!! The story is getting a life of its own,no telling how far the muse  will take it. But I doubt it will be much longer. Seeing I want the Godric’s reveal just as much as some of you.I will try to make it worth it.

 

I can I just say I have seen comments from a few of my favorite writers.And it is like wow… you read my story?!?!? 🙂

Last thing to touch base on is a (hopefully) three chapter wonder  (was supposed to be a one shot but lets face it not my forte.)  Of Gods and Vampires… I will let your mind swirl that around a little.

 

As  usual I am so thankful  for all of your support. And the support / encouragement of the many writers and readers I call my fanfiction family. Let’s all face it we are bunch crazy people! A diversified group of individuals  who love Books and writing. Well The muse is tapping her foot. I swear she is trying to  keep me prisoner…. When good Muses go bad… ! Well Tata for now  Have a great weekend !

 

Yours truly Autumnchild26

 

 

 

CHAPTER 3

 

I walked over the threshold and could immediately detect that we are not alone in the house. Were, mixed with Fairy, and finally a human with a little more in his blood. The sound of dishes in the kitchen had me wandering down the hall and into the kitchen where I ended up face to face with a very dark complected, and very eccentric looking man. I immediately pushed Sookie behind me and crouched slightly, fangs bared, ready to defend my daughter. Since he made no threatening moves I simply glared at him, but remained at the ready.

 

“What are you doing in this house. What is your name and why are you here?” I hissed in surprise and anger. A hand on my shoulder drew my attention from my prey:  I turned my body slightly so I could see both my son’s wife and the would be threat, remaining between them so fi the threat should make a move I could stop him.

 

“It’s ok father. This ,is my best friend Lafayette. He came to stay here while Eric is the way he is. He wanted to be here, for me, just in case,” Sookie said, sounding so very sad. “Eric also pays him a wage to do the things around here I can’t. And he makes sure I eat..” I turned back to the man to see if what she said was true. His eyes told me the truth I needed to know. He loved my daughter, and if he was her friend then he was mine, for now. If he were to betray her or my family I would rip him apart.

 

“I am sorry for the misunderstanding,” I apologized. “With our family in danger, I just can’t let my guard down.”

 

“Yeah, yeah sure,” he said as he waved one manicured hand in the air in dismissal. “Sooks, you called tall and deadly’s Papa?” The man, Lafayette, sounded rather surprised that Sookie would go behind her husband’s back in such a way. Sookie shook her head. “No, Eric called him. I am just the delivery girl. Speaking of which, we should probably go to his office.”

 

I nodded my assent, and motioned for her to lead the way. We only went a few paces down the hall before she stopped and typed in  a pass code and placed her hand in the middle of the door. She casually glanced my way: her face was as stone, but her eyes told the true tale.

 

“Please don’t mind the mess. I have tried to keep it clean but he just won’t let me in: Sometimes He’ll change the passcode. Sometimes I believe he blames me for Pam missing. We were shopping and I had gone into a bookstore, she had gone into a shoe store. We were supposed to meet at the car. I had no idea we were being watched. I have been going through growth spurts as my spark matures. I found out after Pam was taken that was the reason I didn’t pick anything up.”

 

I knew from experience that the  mall could be a distracting place. All  the smells and sounds. Why weren’t her instincts working? Had she started using Sookie’s gift to alert them of danger, instead of using the telepathy in conjunction with her own instincts?.
A good question, and one I will have to ask my grandchild when she is recovered. Right now the beautiful girl in front of me had tears rolling down her face. Her voice was laced with grief and guilt. How could my child blame her? Where was he coming from? Pa

m was not a young vampire. I sighed when I realized it all came back to me and what I had failed to do before any of them was even a sparkle in their father’s eye.  I embraced the girl firmly in a hug and whispered, “It is ok dearest, this was in no way your fault. I could use a True blood, and bring one for Eric as well. I will make my willful child drink something.”

 

She nodded and turned to go back to the kitchen.

 

I stepped up to the thick metal door and knocked. “Go away Sookie! I don’t want to talk to you right now,” my child’s voice growled through the door. I knocked again, still without  speaking: I had muted the bond so he couldn’t tell I was standing in front of the door.

 

“Damnit Sookie! I don’t want to deal with fairy drama crap anymore! My child is missing and in pain!  And I can’t find her! So leave me alone for once!”

 

Oh, that was it, I could understand the pain and anger he felt, even the fear that was on his mind. But he had no right to speak to her that way.  My heart went out to her if this was what he had become. Why hadn’t she called me herself? I would have to speak with her later.

 

“Is that anyway to greet your Maker Eric Northman! I have taught you better. Open this door.” I roared, letting my distaste be known through our now unmuted bond. The door flew open and my child fell to his knees.

 

“Forgive me, master, I did not know it was you. I have not been myself since Pam ..” His voice cracked and trailed off.

 

“Off your knees my son, and we will get her back together. But first, you will treat your soon to be bonded with respect.” My child looked slightly chastened at my words, as well he should. “As for fairy drama: What did you think was going to happen when you chose a fairy? Hybrid or not, each race has its challenges. She loves you more than I can express. Now, stop punishing her and yourself for this. Pam is a grown vampire. Now, what have you found?”

 

He rose slowly from his knees, still not looking in my eyes,  “Nothing. But the cameras at the mall caught four strong men approaching the car where Pam was standing. There was a quick fight and then they grabbed her with what I think it is a silver net.  Then they drove  off. From the angle of the camera you couldn’t see the make or model.” In my heart I knew the car belonged to Russell, but I wanted more evidence, no I wanted more than that. What if it wasn’t him? A voice in my head told me I was desperately grasping for an other answer.

I felt my son: There were no more leads and it had been a week since Pam had been taken. That old witch better be here when she said she would be.  I knew she could help track Pam. Blood always calls to blood.

 

A soft knock on the door and a soft hushed beating heart told me it was Sookie. I opened the door and took the glass bottles from her hands. There were fresh tears in her eyes, she must have heard his words.  “I am going to stay at a friend’s house for a couple days. I need time to think.  I will have my cell phone on me so if either of you need me you can call.” I nodded; I understood her to need to get away. I wanted to go on the run as soon as I got Eric’s call: I had spent years running away from that day.

Sookie left, closing the door behind her. “We will find her Eric, and bring her home. I called in an old witch friend of mine. She and her granddaughter will be here tomorrow night.There may be a spell which will give us Pam’s exact location. Then we will plan her rescue and our revenge.”

 

He looked at me and nodded. The bright traces of life in his eyes had dimmed to the glow of a low wattage light bulb: A far cry from the zest for life he usually had.

 

“Thank you master. I knew i could count on you to have my back. You would never betray me. And I know that if you knew who had killed my human family you would have helped me destroy them years ago.” In a very unlike himself gesture, Eric  reached and embraced me.

 

I pushed calm and strength through the bond as he let go of me. Looking into my eyes he asked, “Where is Sookie? I don’t feel her close anymore.”

 

I sighed, a very human thing to do. “You were right here in the room when she informed us that she would be staying at a friend’s house for a few days. What you said when you thought she was the one on the other side of the was not like you. You’ve never said things to hurt your beloved on purpose before, and I didn’t expect you to start now. You shouldn’t push her away Eric, she is hurting as well.I fear she blames herself more than you blame her. Give her a few days and then make amends.”

He nodded, although his heart wasn’t in it, “You are right, as always. I will send her flowers in a few days. And beg her forgiveness.” I smiled at the thought of my  giant, prideful child begging. That would be something I would pay to see.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2

 

It was rough a half hour before I landed on an airstrip near Shreveport. I could just make out the form of Sookie. As I drew closer to the figure, was leaning on the black SUV.  She looked as if she had aged. Standing in front of her I notice that she smells of Eric, they must have started a bond.

 

As I get closer to my child’s mate I can see she is relieved to see me and yet still tired. Obviously she is tired from whatever has been going on.

 

“My daughter, it is good to see you again, though I wish it were under better circumstances. How is my child? And how are you? I know you and Pam have grown close over the years.” She just nodded and walked forward and into my arms. Tears started to leak from her eyes as she sobbed.

 

“Oh father, it has been so horrible. Eric hardly feeds, He doesn’t leave his office most of the time. He won’t even see me sometimes. He is so distant, I am so scared for him.” I take in her words and the painful pang already on my soul aches even more.

 

“Shh, shh my sweet daughter. Come, let us go to your home and I will see if I can knock some sense into my child’s head. He will need his strength for what is to come.” She nodded sorrowfully into my chest before looking into my eyes.

 

“I am sorry I ruined another shirt,” she said with a slight upturn of her lips. I chuckled and used my thumb to wipe away the rest of the stray tears from her blue eyes.

 

“Think nothing of it, I have plenty more at home. Besides, it would just give Pam a chance to shop for me?” If I could get us all out alive. I let my thoughts stay in my head: No need to worry her. Not yet anyway. I refuse to get her involved.

 

Eric will hate me enough as it is.

 

Sookie nodded and let me get into the driver’s seat. And we were soon speeding down the road towards Bon Temps and to my child I could only hope that if there is a God that he would protect Pam and grant us victory.

 

Clenching the wheel tightly, I focus on the remainder of the drive.

 

“Are you alright? You seem to be thinking awful hard over there. You already have a plan, don’t you? What troubles you father?”

 

The gods blessed my daughter with a sharp mind, maybe to sharp for her own good. Or maybe for MY own good. I settle for a half-truth instead of the outright lie I am incapable of telling her.

 

“I do, but it is not an easy road to walk. And the price may cost us dearly. But mostly I worry for Eric and Pam: I hope we are not too late to save her. And I pray my son is not too far gone from his self. I fear that nothing will be as it is now when this over .”

 

I heard her sigh before she turned to look at me. ” Well, Godric I don’t know what your plan is, but what I do know is that Pam is a lot more durable than she seems. Eric can feel her, barely, but she lives. I know Eric well enough to know that he will stand by you no matter where you lead. His love for you knows no end. And I will follow you too.”

 

Her words struck a chord in my dead silent heart. She leaned over and kissed my cheek. Smiling her thousand watt smile. Leave to Sookie to light even the darkest of situations. But she doesn’t knows all my sins. I park the car as she finishes her speech and we exit the car and walk up the stairs to the old farm house.

 

“You are right my dear. Thank you for reminding me. I am glad to see my son’s attitude and high- handedness hasn’t caused you to lose your sanity.” I kiss her forehead as she opens the door for me.

 

“Godric will you please come in,” she said; it was the first time I had ever been to their home in BonTemps. I smiled and nodded, I could hear my child’s nearly silent sobs echoing my ears. Oh, my poor Eric.