tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1657369866357580722024-03-12T18:43:51.275-05:00The Van Winkle Legacy“Because no matter what they say, you always have a choice. You just don’t always have the guts to make it.”
― Ray N. Kuili, AwakeningDandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.comBlogger178125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-62313143088307590172017-05-14T22:24:00.001-05:002017-05-14T22:25:56.628-05:004.35 Sometimes Nightmares Are Real (Finale)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Phoenix" she called her voice filling the air around the red heads haven. Silence greeted her. She had come to inform him of the growing danger to their dimensions. She knew Phoenix would join the alliance. She had no doubt in her mind.</div>
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A groan alerted her that she wasn't alone. Turning she gasped as she came face to face with an emissary of council. As his feet Phoenix lay groaning holding his side.<br />
"As we suspected" the man said his tone impassive.</div>
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Lifting her chin Quinn crossed her arms. She would not give this lackey from the council the satisfaction of seeing her squirm. "Whatever you suspect I assure you're wrong."</div>
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Dragging Phoenix to his feet he demanded "is this the mother of the children?"</div>
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"I don't know what you're talking about" Phoenix sounded hoarse but otherwise unhurt.</div>
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"Don't mistake my benevolence as stupidity. We know this is the one who has come to your dimension multiple times since the awakening. She's the mother isn't she?" He shook the weakened watcher "answer me. Is she the one?"</div>
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Recovering from her initial shock Quinn knew their worst fears had come to pass. The council was aware of the twins. She kept her face stoic and as unfeeling as she could make it. Phoenix had withstood the Emissaries interrogation to protect her. She would not make his suffering be for nothing.</div>
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"Pitiful creature" the emissary tossed Phoenix aside like a rag doll. "You" he pointed towards Quinn "why are you here if not to see your lover and kids?"</div>
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"I had important dimension business to discuss" she kept her tone aloof avoiding eye contact with Phoenix.</div>
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"I see" he rubbed his chin "Phoenix Cross by the power invested in me you are here with consigned to dimension duty for all eternity. The terms of your voluntary service have been revoked." He stopped his face softening as he helped Phoenix stand up "unless you care to save yourself. Tell me the mother of your children. Tell me and I will let you go home where you can live out your days like a normal mortal. Raise more children."</div>
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Phoenix shook his head as his body seemed to convulse "I'd rather rot here for all eternity then tell you."</div>
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"As you wish" the emissary stepped back allowing Phoenix to stumble forward "finish your business and leave" he instructed Quinn before vanishing before them.</div>
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Phoebe hugged her pillow to her chest. Squeezing her eyes tight. She could still see the hurt disappointed look in her parents eyes as she told them about the baby.</div>
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Her mother's gasp "I knew we shouldn't have let you date that boy."</div>
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Her dad's attempts to calm her as he said "I'm sure this had nothing to do with...."</div>
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"We don't know. Not for sure" her mother cried.</div>
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Frowning Phoebe felt as if she had missed something important. They knew something that she didn't. The looks that passed between her parents. The half finished sentences.</div>
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"Did you date his dad or something?" she asked glancing from one parent to the other.</div>
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"No of course not"Kimberly shook her head "no one knows who his parents are. Whatever gave you that idea?"</div>
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Her mother's protests did little to ease the growing unease that some mystery remained around Malachi. "You don't have to worry about Malachi anymore. He didn't like the idea of being a father" she hugged herself tight fighting back tears "we broke up. He got what he wanted and now he's gone."</div>
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"I'm going to kill him" Everett exploded bouncing from the couch.</div>
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"Daddy please" she cried "I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm sorry." Once she started to say she couldn't keep from saying it. The words dribbled from her mouth. Incoherent from sobbing.</div>
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"Aw honey" she felt her father's arms slip around her holding her tight "I'm sorry too." He kissed the top of her head.</div>
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"Tomorrow you're seeing the doctor" Kimberly said "after that we'll deal with this...bump in the road." She joined them wrapping her arms around her daughter and husband. "I know it feels like the end of the world but it's not. We'll get through this."</div>
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That was how many hours ago? Phoebe sniffed into her pillow. Her parents hadn't said it but she could hear it loud and clear. She had screwed up. Her entire future had changed. All her dreams gone at the snap of her fingers. She shoved her fist in her mouth biting hard to keep from screaming. Why had she been stupid? Why had she ever believed Malachi was the one? No one at fourteen ever met their soul mate.</div>
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"Phoebe" a small voice called from the partially open door "are you aright?"</div>
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"Go away" she cried</div>
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"You're crying" he persisted slipping into the room closing the door behind him "is it because of the baby?"</div>
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"What do you know about that?" she mumbled sitting up on the bed.</div>
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"I..." he picked at his fingers then glanced both ways as if he was afraid of being overheard "I listened to you tell mommy and daddy."</div>
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"You little sneak" she cried.</div>
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Shrugging he climbed on the bed beside her "how else am I supposed to find out about stuff? No one ever tells me. They think I'm a kid."</div>
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"You are a kid" she emphasized.</div>
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"Yeah" he sighed moving restlessly beside her on the bed "it doesn't mean I can't help."</div>
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"Ori"she rolled her eyes about to launch into all the reasons why a ten year old couldn't help when she stopping considering his sincere blue eyes identical to their mother's. She smiled gently at him "you're right you can help."</div>
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"I can?" he sounded surprised "of course I can" he amended confidently. "You'll be a good mommy" he leaned into her kissing her cheek.</div>
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"Really?" she asked surprised that he thought so. Half the time she thought he was a nuisance. Always hiding behind doors spying on her. Too bad he wasn't around that night when she and Malachi decided to make a baby.</div>
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"I think so" he leaned into her eyes drooping.</div>
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"I didn't think you liked me" she laughed as he put his head in her lap.</div>
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"I don't" he yawned "it's a brother thing."</div>
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"That doesn't make any sense" she went on a for a few minutes telling him why it didn't make sense stopping at the sound of him snoring. Short of letting him sleep with her she scooped him up and carried him to his room.</div>
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***</div>
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"You'll be a good mommy" Ori's voice echoed in her head. It was a comforting thought to think someone thought she'd be a good mother. She let it lull her to sleep.</div>
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A couple hours later she tossed her head restlessly on the pillow whimpering in protest. Sweat dotted her forehead and upper lip "no please don't...."</div>
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"Good mommy" a voice she hadn't heard in over ten years cackled in her head "good mommy, mommy, mommy."</div>
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"Go away" Phoebe shouted "please go away."</div>
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"You're never getting rid of me," the wandler taunted.</div>
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"Why? How?" she cried "dollie's gone. She was the link. Go away."</div>
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"Oh poor little dollie" the wandler taunted "her sacrifice was for nothing. You've been touched. I can come and go as I please now. You'll never be alone again."</div>
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"No please" she whimpered "you were gone. I know you were gone."</div>
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"I was never gone. Just hibernating" the wandler sniffed sighing contentedly "you're fear is delicious. I could feast upon it forever."</div>
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"No leave me alone" Phoebe begged "rainbows and hearts. Unicorns and puppy dogs."</div>
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"We're not in the darkness anymore" the wandler scoffed at her feeble attempts to get rid of her "those tricks won't work on me."</div>
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"Where are you?" Phoebe cried groping in the dark shivering. It was like a cloying damp cloak had been thrown over her head, smothering her. She sat up straight in bed the first light of dawn appearing in the sky as she glanced out her window.</div>
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"I'm inside your head" the wandler whispered as if she sat beside Phoebe "the silly woman who commissioned me to torment you as a child had me touch you. A wandler's touch is terrifying and wonderful. Many don't survive."</div>
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The Wandler's voice filled Phoebe's mind "why are doing this to me?"</div>
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"You're special" the wandler's laughter deafened her "I didn't think we'd be united so soon."</div>
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"Leave me alone" Phoebe begged holding her stomach as a sharp pain stabbed her.</div>
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The wandler shook her head her voice taking on a teasing tone "it's so much fun being here with you. If I left I wouldn't have any fun. I know you wouldn't want that."</div>
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"Yes I would" Phoebe screamed as the pain increased to intolerable levels in her stomach. "Daddy, mommy" she screamed stumbling from the bed.</div>
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"You really are a stupid little girl" the wandler gave her one more twist before taking what she came for..</div>
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***</div>
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Kimberly held onto Everett's hand sitting in the sterile impersonal waiting room. She squeezed her shut as images of running into her daughter's bedroom assaulted her. Phoebe lay semi conscious on her bedroom floor writhing in pain. "She's lost so much blood" she mumbled for the hundredth time.</div>
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Everett squeezed her hand. He heard her talking through her fears while he remained silent. What could he say? What could he do? "She'll be alright" he murmured so many times the words had begun to lose their meaning.</div>
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Kimberly nodded her tears streaming from her eyes "hold me," she pleaded a testament of how much they had been through recently. "I can't lose her too. First Grandma now this."</div>
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Beverly had been a huge part of their lives. Her absence would leave a hole in their lives that wouldn't be easily filled. They hadn't had a lot of time to absorb the tragedy of her death before being slammed with news of Phoebe's pregnancy. Everett jerked upright when he saw a doctor come from the OR.</div>
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Hastily he went to meet the surgeon halfway "how is she? How's my daughter?</div>
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Blinking the exhausted man rubbed his temples "we got the bleeding stopped. It's a miracle you found her when you did." He have each of them a silent nod and smile "she should make a full recovery."</div>
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"Can we see her?" Kimberly asked clinging to Everett.</div>
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"She's in recovery" he gave her a brief grin "once she's in her own room I'll have the nurse come get you." He turned to leave then stopped "her case is puzzling if it weren't for the bleeding I'd swear there was no baby."</div>
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"Are you saying she wasn't pregnant?" Everett demanded "we saw the test results...."</div>
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"I didn't say that" the doctor yawned "there's plenty of evidence in the womb she had been pregnant but no evidence of a fetus. I've never seen anything like it in my twenty years of practice."</div>
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Shocked Everett let the man go turning his attention to his wife "our baby's going to be aright" he assured her holding Kimberly tight as she cried on his chest.</div>
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"I know" she sniffed "I'm happy really I am. It's just....what if she's right?"</div>
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"We got rid of the wandler almost ten years ago. It can't come back" he kissed her forehead "we destroyed the doll it was attached to. Phoebe was delirious and didn't know what she was talking about."</div>
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"I'm sure you're right" Kimberly sighed wrapping her arms around his waist "seeing her like that on the floor. Hearing her saying it was back...."</div>
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"I know I was just as scared as you" Everett admitted "everything is going to be alright now. I promise."</div>
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***</div>
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“Keenan” Lydia yawned stumbling into the living room brushing her disheveled hair from her face “it’s 2 AM! What are you doing?”</div>
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“Can’t sleep" he mumbled glancing at his phone frowning.</div>
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“Hold up - just stop” she demanded as he tried to hide his phone from her view.</div>
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“It’s nothing” his voice sounding irritated as she persisted to reach his phone.</div>
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“I’ve known you too long Keenan. This isn’t nothing” she sat down motioning for him to join her. She smiled seeing the reluctance in his face as he sat beside her. “Just because you don’t want to talk about something doesn’t mean it’s nothing.”</div>
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He remained silent staring at the far wall of their living room mumbling again “it’s nothing.”</div>
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“It’s your father isn’t it?” her gentle persistence earning her a nod from her husband.</div>
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“He…called” Keenan raised his phone where it still showed the ID of the last caller “he’s a mess. Mom was his life.” His heart thudded against his chest a dull persistent ache “I’m afraid the clan elders will try to force him into a marriage he’s not ready for.”</div>
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She gasped clutching his hand “it’s too soon. They wouldn’t be that heartless would they?”</div>
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“I wouldn’t put it past them” Keenan sighed “I don’t think they care how much he’s hurting. They just want an heir they approve of.”</div>
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The bitterness in his voice was all Lydia needed to hear to know how much her husband was hurting. "I wish..." she bit her lip. She hated having the castle guard anywhere near her home. It disrupted her routine not to mention scaring the girls "we should have your father come stay with us."</div>
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Grunting Keenan shook his head "it didn't work so well the first time he was here. Not to mention the guard and elders would never allow it now."</div>
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"We can't just leave him in that dreary old castle by himself" she protested.</div>
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He tugged on her hair "it's really sweet of you to offer unfortunately it won't work."</div>
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<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"Why not?" she demanded.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"He needs the castle guard for protection" he mumbled.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"The castle guard didn't do much for Beverly" Lydia pointed out "she was on castle grounds when Sarafino got to her." Tears blurred her vision "where were the guards when she needed them?"</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
Nodding Keenan sighed "I've wondered that myself. Why was she there? It's so unlike her to go wandering around by herself."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"You believe Serafino's story don't you?" Lydia said dismayed.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"I do. He killed her but..." his voice flat emotionless "I just don't think it's as easy as that. There's more to it."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"Silver" she hissed the hated name from her lips.</div>
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"I'm afraid so" he agreed "no one else benefits from Beverly's demise. The elders would have waited until she passed away from old age. Now they're taking advantage of an unexpected opportunity."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"Serafino still had motive" she pointed out not quite convinced "he wanted to rule Moonlight Falls."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"After his assignation attempt the elder's would never consider him" Keenan let a bitter laugh escape "that was a delusion that Silver capitalized on. Silver wants my dad. Beverly was an obstacle preventing Silver from getting what he wants."</div>
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"Oh Keenan" Lydia cried reaching out to him. Her fingers encountered stiff taught muscles.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
He moved away from her touch mumbling "the elders were right to be scared. I am a monster" he mumbled.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"No you're not" she protested brows knitted in confusion "you are not Silver." She took his hand holding it against her cheek "you are my husband. The father of our children. If you are a monster so are they."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
He knew what she was trying to do and for a moment it lifted the weight from his heart. He took her in his arms held her tight. Would she still feel the same after he did what he knew he had to do? or would she look at him like he the monster he knew he was?</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: center;">
***</div>
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"No I won't do it" Adam shouted eyes darting around the assembled clan elders.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"You don't have a choice" his once trusted friend and mage informed him.</div>
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"I thought you were supposed to have my back" Adam accused his voice hoarse.</div>
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"I do" Alanon insisted "I have to also weight the good of Moonlight Falls against the needs of one individual. The people need the reassurance that an heir will give them."</div>
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"There is a an heir" Adam stated as the air of the small conference room pressed in around him. He felt trapped in circumstances he had no control over.</div>
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"He's not the type of heir we need. He has too much power" Alanon shook his head "the people won't back him."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"He's my son" Adam protested scanning the obstinate faces of the assembled clan elders. Each one bearing the responsibility of their people on their shoulders. "Keenan would never hurt anyone" he attempted to make them see reason.</div>
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<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"You can't say that" Alanon spoke softly "anyone can hurt anyone if given enough reason."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"It hasn't even been a month since Beverly....my wife...." he choked. He just couldn't say it. His eyes watered despite his best efforts to remain stoic.</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
"You're letting your humanity take control of your emotions" Alanon hissed without hint remorse or sympathy "pull yourself together. Emotion has not bearing on duty. Providing a viable heir is the duty of the Esteemed One."</div>
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Adam glared at Alanon his eyes boring into his head. His vampire rising, taking control pushing the hurt and pain away. For a brief moment he felt nothing. Under the influence of that moment Adam snapped "fine we'll do it your way. You give no choice." He paused staring intently into the assembled men and women "send me your selections. I'll choose from among them."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
He walked from the room slamming the door on the stunned faces of the clan elders. His anger allowed him to make it back to his room before emotions once again took control "what am I going to do?" he cried in the still empty room "I can't do this. I don't want to do this."</div>
<div data-mce-style="text-align: left;" style="font-family: "noto serif", georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 16px;">
He reached for the photograph of Beverly smiling from the frame "I should have renounced my appointment as Esteemed One. I don't want it. Never did. Why did I let you convince me to do this? All they want is someone they can control. A puppet they can control."</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-202622707569833032017-05-14T08:37:00.001-05:002017-05-14T08:37:40.270-05:00Special Chapter - Patrick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Jeff glanced around his new home. It wasn't much but it was his. He sighed with a building sense of satisfaction that he was finally moving in the right direction by making the decision to split from Lisa. What other choice did he have after what happened at Rita's six months before. It was over. Had been over for a long time. He had been clinging to the remnants of what they once had.<br />
<br />
Moving to Moonlight Falls to be near Tommy and his family was the best decision he could have made. Talon was a ball of energy that kept him on his toes; especially now that Talon had discovered how to use his wings. His favorite past time now was evading being caught and Jeff spent the majority of time with his grandson chasing the little scamp around the house.<br />
<br />
Talon's infectious laughter filled his tiny house as he attempted and failed to catch the little bumble to put him down for his nap. A loud knock interrupted their game of cat and mouse. "Patrick" Jeff cried upon opening the door and finding his eldest son grinning in front of him. Pulling him into a quick spontaneous hug "come in and close the door before Talon decides to escapes."<br />
<br />
Puzzled Patrick did as he was told followed by a good looking green eyed male. Patrick watched in wonder as Talon buzzed past hovering nearby to inspect the visitors. "Is that him? My nephew?" his eyes sparkled with fascination and curiosity.<br />
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"That's Talon" Jeff laughed as his grandson came up to Patrick putting an inquisitive finger on his nose "that's your Uncle Patrick."<br />
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Giggling Talon squealed and darted away before Patrick could grab him and hold him. "He looks so much like Tommy. It's amazing and shocking at the same time," he said watching the boy hovering behind Jeff's shoulder.<br />
<br />
"He keeps me on my toes that's for sure" Jeff said ushering them to the couch "What brings you to Moonlight Falls?" Inwardly he was expecting the worst. A plea for help in managing Lisa. That seemed to the only reason his children ever invited him over or showed up at his house unannounced.<br />
<br />
Taking Brice's hand in his Patrick smiled warmly at his dad "I wanted you to know that the procedure was a success."<br />
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Jeff's brows knitted together as he puzzled over his son's announcement. What procedure? Then it clicked leaving him grinning "congratulations." He bounced up to give each of the young men sitting across from him a hug "I'm so happy for you."<br />
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"Thank you dad that means a lot" Patrick squeezed Brice's hand "we're both excited to be parents. We were hoping you might be able to help us with something."<br />
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Brice nodded encouraging him to continue. Jeff held his breath knowing what that help was going to be and dreading it.<br />
<br />
"We're hoping you might be able to introduce us to Peter Van Winkle so we can thank him. If it weren't for his work and dedication this wouldn't be possible. He's done so much to help same sex couples have their own biological children. We'd just like to thank him" Patrick continued unaware of the relief that his words were giving his father.<br />
<br />
"I'll see what I can do" Jeff said "Peter's been busy working on a project recently."<br />
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"If nothing else we'd like to write a letter thanking him. Do you think you could see he got it if we can't meet him?" Brice asked "I know Patrick would prefer doing it in person but we don't want to disturb his work either."<br />
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"No we wouldn't want to do that" Patrick agreed taking his husband's hand "there is something else we need to discuss with you. We've been offered positions with the ...."<br />
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***</div>
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Loud banging interrupted them. Jeff went to see who it was at his door. His smile faded upon sight of Lisa's displeased snarl "what are you doing here?"<br />
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"They did it didn't they?" she was practically screaming as she shoved past Jeff into his house "which one of you is the abomination?"<br />
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Standing Patrick shrugged off the supporting hands of his husband "I guess that would be me." He stared coldly at the woman who gave birth to him "you're going to be a grandmother."<br />
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"I refuse to accept that thing as my grandchild" she spewed spittle across the room "how dare you embarrass the family in this way.<br />
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"Lisa" Jeff hissed her name in disbelief at what he was hearing "what's wrong with you?"<br />
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Focusing her attention on her soon to be ex-husband "this is all your fault. Allowing them to make their own decisions. I had a nice pretty girl picked out for him. She'd have made him a good wife but...." she waved a hand towards Brice "he chose that."<br />
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"That's enough" Jeff grabbed her arm attempting to guide her towards the door "this is my home. I won't tolerate you insulting my son or his husband in this manner."<br />
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<br />
"You won't tolerate it?" she snapped her eyes darting to his face "you don't mind that your son is going against nature? Marrying a man. Getting pregnant. It's all ok with you."<br />
<br />
"You're drunk" Jeff said catching a whiff of her breath.<br />
<br />
"Just a few drinks on the plane" she dismissed his words.<br />
<br />
"You need to leave before you say anything else you'll regret" Jeff opened the door hoping she'd take the hint and leave before she completely wrecked her relationship with her son.<br />
<br />
She looked over his shoulder towards the two young men. Brice was rubbing Patrick's back in slow rhythmic circles. For a brief moment her eyes softened "we used to be like that" she murmured.<br />
<br />
Nodding slowly Jeff sighed "we were once upon a time."<br />
<br />
"Until I mucked it up" her voice was full of regret.<br />
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<br />
"It takes two" he sighed "I could have fought harder to be more of a presence in my own family."<br />
<br />
"Meaning you should have told me no sooner and more often" her voice was hardening a sure sign she was building towards something.<br />
<br />
"Among other things" Jeff argued "it's to late now. It's in the past."<br />
<br />
Jeff walked her outside debating within himself if he should let her drive. "Give me the keys" he held his hand out.<br />
<br />
"I can drive" she refused knocking his hand away.<br />
<br />
"Lisa either give me the keys or I'm calling the cops" he said not taking the chance. He couldn't live with the woman but he couldn't let her hurt herself or someone else by driving in her condition.<br />
<br />
"Fine" she threw her purse at him letting him dig inside it for the keys.<br />
<br />
"Wait here" he commanded running back to the house. "Will you guys wait here for me while I take your mother to the hotel?" he asked hoping they wouldn't want to leave after this "make yourself at home" he said when they nodded.<br />
<br />
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***</div>
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A couple of hours later Jeff entered his dark and silent house. Disappointment flooded through him. He had wanted to spend time with his oldest son instead it had take him forever to disentangle himself from Lisa and her drunken ramblings. Turning on a light he spread out on the the couch. A moment later he jumped to his feet "Talon" he cried. Where was his grandson? With everything happening he had completely forgotten about the boy.<br />
<br />
"Talon" he called running for the spare bedroom where he put the boy for his naps. He switched the light on running for the crib. Empty. Had the boy gotten out while he had been dealing with Lisa? Was the boy buzzing around outside alone perhaps lost in the dark? Racing for the front door he flung it open coming face to face with Patrick.<br />
<br />
"Dad what's wrong?" he asked seeing the panic in the older man.<br />
<br />
"Talon...I can't find him" he searched the darkening yard wondering which way the boy would have gone.<br />
<br />
"Talon?" Brice asked "did Tommy bring him back?"<br />
<br />
Staring at the young man Jeff demanded "what do you mean back?"<br />
<br />
"Well" Brice looked at Patrick before responding "they came by the house while you were gone"<br />
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<br />
Running a hand through his hair "did they take Talon with them?"<br />
<br />
"Of course they did" Patrick laughed "do you think Brice and I would leave the boy alone?"<br />
<br />
"I..." Jeff sighed bursting into helpless relieved laughter "I didn't know what to think. I forgot all about him while I was dealing with your mother."<br />
<br />
"You forgot about him" Patrick sounded incredulous. Turning to Brice "remind me when our little one comes not to let him babysit for us."<br />
<br />
"Don't worry I will" Brice said solemnly.<br />
<br />
Jeff looked from one to the other despite their solemn words their eyes were dancing. "If I didn't know better I'd think you were planning on moving here."<br />
<br />
"We are" Brice confirmed.<br />
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<br />
Walking over to the couch Patrick sat down "we were going to tell you earlier but were interrupted. The police department asked us to set up their forensics lab."<br />
<br />
"I'm so proud of you" Jeff said "you've worked hard for this I know."<br />
<br />
"You're not disappointed that I didn't become an investigator?" Patrick asked .<br />
<br />
"Not at all" Jeff smiled "I would have been more disappointed if you had done something you didn't want to do."<br />
<br />
"Thanks dad" Patrick looked relieved "mom had a fit when I told her."<br />
<br />
"Don't worry about that. She's always wanted someone to take after her father" Jeff explained "she loves you despite how she acts. She's just letting other things cloud her judgment."<br />
<br />
"You're too nice to her dad" Patrick said "you always were."<br />
<br />
"Yes well" he shrugged. What could he say "old habits die hard."<br />
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<br />
<b><i>"Yes they do" Patrick said softly glancing up at the man beside him. Brice had spent a lot of time helping him see what Lisa had been doing to him. They had met at the police academy. Patrick had been dating some girl his mom had set him up with, too afraid to let anyone know he had no real feelings or attraction for her.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>At the time Patrick would have denied it about himself. That was until he met Brice. He had felt the difference in the way his body reacted to the man. His heart would speed up at the sound of his voice. Whenever Brice entered the room it was like he brought the sunshine with him. Patrick couldn't take his eyes from him. Every touch no matter how brief or inconsequential it was felt like being on fire.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>He had never felt that way with Tanya. His mother's choice for him. In a remote way Patrick knew she was pretty. She was nice. Her voice had a nice ring to it. She just didn't make him come alive when she was near him. Half the time he didn't even know if she was in the same with him. Brice was different. He knew every move he made. When he left the room it was suddenly cold and lonely without him.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>He still would have been in denial if it weren't for that day that brought them together. They had been assigned to work together. Patrick would always remember how Brice had joined him setting his books aside. "I've seen you watching me" his green eyes seemed to hypnotize him as he struggled to find something to say. "That's ok. I like you too" Brice had given him a bright flash of his white teeth as he sat down "I'm glad we're working together. I've wanted an excuse to introduce myself to you."</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>Patrick tried to convince himself that they were just friends over the next few months. He invited Brice to come with him to meet the family. To this day he still remembered the hateful glare his mother had given Brice upon meeting him. Brice had leaned over wrapping his arms around him whispering in his ear unconcerned "I don't think she likes me."</i></b><br />
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<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>"Don't be ridiculous" he objected "of course she does. It just takes a while for her to warm up to people."</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>He had thought it strange afterward how his mother had insisted on inviting Tanya over. He had spent the weekend fending off his girlfriends unwanted attentions.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>After returning to the academy Brice had put a hand on his knee "your family doesn't know, do they?"</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>"Know what?" he asked choking on the words to afraid to admit what he had begun to suspect.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>"That you're gay" Brice squeezed Patrick's knee before removing his hand "I know you're not ready to admit it yet either. Just do yourself a favor and don't let your mom convince you you're something you're not." </i></b><br />
<b><i></i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
<b><i>To Patrick's surprise Brice leaned over placing his soft lips on his in a soft tender kiss. It wasn't the mind blowing kiss he had read about or the earth stopping kiss he watched in countless movies. It was one full of promise. His lips tingled afterward leaving him breathless as he watched Brice get his things. It was an entirely new sensation. Something he had never felt with Tanya no matter how many times they had kissed.</i></b><br />
<b><i><br /></i></b>
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<b><i>***</i></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
Pulling his mind from the past Patrick turned to Jeff "why did you retire?"<br />
<br />
Shrugging Jeff moved restlessly on the chair he was sitting on. Looking down he tried to avoid the interested stares he was receiving from his son. "I realized I no longer enjoyed what I was doing." He sighed shaking his head "it wasn't important anymore. I'm a consultant here in Moonlight Falls and will probably be working with you on the Forensics Lab."<br />
<br />
"Did you lose interest because of the pressure mom put on you to make the next promotion?" Patrick asked worry in his purplish blue eyes.<br />
<br />
"That wasn't all of it" Jeff admitted "I missed my old partner. It wasn't the same without him. Plus I wanted to be home more but that meant spending more time with your mother and dealing with her disappointment. I wasn't ready to admit her dreams weren't mine." He stopped unsure what else to say "I'm proud of you son for being able to stand up to her. You were able to let yourself be true to what you wanted to be."<br />
<br />
"Thanks" he murmured in response. Patrick felt somewhat uncomfortable accepting the compliment. Most of the time he felt like a failure. He had almost given in to his mother's wishes that he marry Tanya. He might have married her if it weren't for that single kiss Brice had given him in the car that night.<br />
<br />
<br />
It had helped him admit to himself that he wasn't happy living the life his mother wanted for him. He realized if he didn't stand up for himself he'd be miserable for the rest of his life. "It was an act of desperation more than anything else" he said out loud. He looked around the room at their startled expressions "me standing up to mom was an act of desperation. I was afraid of waking up one day and hating everything about my life." He looked at his dad "you gave me the strength to do it. I saw how unhappy you were. How much of a struggle you had but you never gave up. Don't let mom make you believe you were a bad dad. That's the furthest thing from the truth. You were a good dad even when you weren't there. Every minute we spent with you was time we enjoyed growing up. Other kids may have had their dads everyday sitting behind the newspaper at the table or watching TV never talking to them. You always wanted to know what we wanted or how we felt about things. It meant a lot to us."<br />
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<br />
Jeff's heart swelled within him. He had always believed that he had been a mostly absent father. That the little time he had spent with his kids didn't count for much.<br />
<br />
It was a shock when someone pulled him close wrapping their arms around him. "I'm sorry" Patrick said "I should have told you sooner. Somehow I thought you knew how we felt."<br />
<br />
"I thought..." he sniffed trying to maintain control over his emotion and failing. "It doesn't matter what I thought."<br />
<br />
"Yes it does" Patrick insisted "you spent too many years believing what you thought and felt wasn't important."<br />
<br />
"I should have been there more for you and I wasn't" Jeff mumbled feeling his son draw him closer "I wasn't there for all the games and plays you were in as kids. I knew how disappointed you were ...."<br />
<br />
"Those were just things we did" Patrick rubbed Jeff's back like Brice had done for him a few hours before "yeah we wanted you there but it wasn't the do or die situation mom always made it out to be. She made sure you didn't find out about things until the last minute making it impossible for you to come. We never blamed you."<br />
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<br /></div>
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<div>
Jeff listened to his son's words. He heard the sincerity in his voice. Was this really how they felt? "I'm going to enjoy having you here," he said choking up as he saw the tears of understanding in his son's eyes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Good you can help us find a house" Patrick said winking over at Brice.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"And you can be our babysitter when we need a night out alone" Brice added.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Deal" Jeff said smiling at them all "maybe I can be a better grandpa than I was a dad."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Don't" Patrick chided "I love the dad I have. I wouldn't change you for anything."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It was nice to hear Jeff had to admit as he nodded accepting his son's statement. It didn't stop the doubts and self recriminations. He would always feel he could have done better, tried harder, done more. He couldn't go back. All he could do was go forward.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-70686469322212506702017-04-29T22:46:00.001-05:002017-04-29T22:46:35.367-05:00Special Chapter - Rita<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Rita raced into the house. Dropping the grocery bags on the counter. She hurried to answer her phone. "Jason?" she said breathlessly.</div>
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"Did I catch you at a bad time?" his voice sounded distant.</div>
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"Yes" she said "I mean no" She took a deep gulp of air held it "I just got home from grocery shopping."</div>
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"Is your mother coming to town?" he asked.</div>
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She could hear the concern in his voice as well as the irritation she always heard when her mother came to visit. "It's the only time I buy groceries," she admitted "you know I always order out otherwise."</div>
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He chuckled a little "don't let her change your mind."</div>
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"I won't. I promise" her voice shook with uncertainty.</div>
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"Babe you promised" the disappointment in his voice reached her ears.</div>
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"I know I promised" her lip quivered as she leaned on the counter bringing a hand up to rub her temples "you don't know how she is." She could imagine him rolling his eyes on the other end of the call. He knew all too well what her mother was like. Her Mother would fight anyone to get her way. There was only one way to do anything, her way.</div>
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Rita had lived all her life complying with her mother's wishes. She was the good girl. The one who never caused any trouble unlike her baby brother Thomas. A slight smile quirked her lips up brightening her eyes. Her brother from an earl age made it clear he wasn't going to give in easily to his mother's wishes. He refused to answer to Thomas insisting it was an old man's name. Someone who smoked cigars and had handlebar mustaches with bow ties to complete the look. Rita often wondered where he had come up with that description. Not even their mother could alter his mind and he had been Tommy ever since.</div>
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"Rita honey" Jason's voice intruded upon her thoughts "are you alright?"</div>
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"I'm fine" she whispered into the phone "she won't stop me from joining you." She looked at the ring on her finger "Jason I really want to come..."</div>
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"Call your dad" he said suddenly before she could say goodbye.</div>
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"What good will that do?" she asked sounding deflated.</div>
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"You said he helped your brother...."</div>
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"Yeah" she bit her lip thinking. Her dad hadn't been around much when she was growing up but he had always been available to talk. There had been many times when she had been unfairly grounded and stuck in her room. She'd call him on the special phone he'd given her for such occasions. They each had one hidden in their rooms. A secret kept from their mother who would otherwise confiscate their phones as punishment for some perceived infringement of the rules. "I'll call him" she sniffed into the phone "I miss you" she murmured.</div>
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"I miss you too" Jason replied back. She could hear the smile in his voice as he said "I love you sweetheart."</div>
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She held the phone to her ear hoping he'd say something else. Reluctantly she laid her phone on the counter the last of the days sunlight glinted off her ring. A silent reminder of all the the secrets she wished she could share and couldn't.</div>
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Tripping over the vacuum cleaner's cord Rita hurried to the door. Opening it wide her frown was replaced with a wide grin. "Daddy" she cried throwing herself into his arms "you came."</div>
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"I said I would" he squeezed her tight "honey I wish you'd call me without it being an emergency."</div>
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"Who said this was an emergency?" Rita demanded eyes darting away unable to meet Jeff's eyes.</div>
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"You're mother is coming isn't she?" Jeff stated following her inside the house. He could see the struggle inside her and wondered if he had done the right thing by staying with Lisa all these years despite their growing rift. Maybe if he had put his foot down sooner his kids wouldn't need him to be their mediator between them and their mother. Lisa wasn't a bad mother. She loved her children. She wanted what was best for them and thought she knew what that was regardless of what they wanted. He mentally shook himself to stop rattling off all the negative characteristics that had so plagued their relationship throughout the years, overbearing, perfectionist, domineering, controlling.</div>
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Twirling a strand of her strawberry blond hair around her finger Rita nodded. "You know what she's like" she lifted her chin eyes pleading "she'll want to stop me."</div>
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Gently he took her arm guiding her to the couch "The work you and Jason are doing is important."</div>
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"I know" she lifted a trembling hand to her eyes wiping away the tears "it's just mother wants me to finish medical school...."</div>
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Jeff took her hand feeling as if someone had thrown a heavy cloak of regret over his shoulders. If only he had seen what Lisa was doing sooner maybe his children wouldn't be afraid to stand up to her and make their own choices Maybe if he had they would have the confidence to be who they wanted to be without fear of her displeasure.</div>
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"Daddy it's not your fault" Rita said as if in response to his thoughts "you couldn't have done anything about Mother. Maybe she can't help it. You know how her parents are."</div>
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"I know sweetie" Jeff sighed squeezing her hand tight "I just worry that I wasn't there enough for you guys when you were growing up."</div>
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"Daddy don't think like that" Rita protested leaning into him "you were there. Who else did I tell about my first date?"</div>
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That brought a brief smile to his lips. He could still hear the excitement in her voice as she told him everything about that night. Every nuance, every thought, every glance, every touch she had experienced. If he had let her, she would have named the butterflies inside her stomach for him. He had felt bad that he hadn't been there to be the classic scary Dad instilling fear in the young man's heart who dared to date his daughter. Instead it was him she had confided in. It was him she had shared the news with when she had her first kiss.</div>
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"What can I do to help?" he asked voice husky with emotion.</div>
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"Daddy your my guest" she protested.</div>
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"I'm here to help" his eyes sparkled with amusement "put me to work."</div>
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Jeff squirmed uncomfortably beside his daughter as Lisa stared coldly at them from across the table. Her nose wrinkled in disgust as if she had smelled something grotesque. "How many times have I told you not to interfere with me raising the children? I know them better than you do...."</div>
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"Mother that's not fair" Rita protested "Daddy worked hard but he..."</div>
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"He did work hard" Lisa hissed "he loved his job more than you."</div>
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Jeff could feel every muscle inside him stiffen at the unfair accusation. His jaw muscle twitched as it clenched hard enough to make his teeth ache. With extreme effort he spoke "I never put my job ahead of you or the kids."</div>
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"I suppose I imagined all those lonely nights when you weren't home or all the school functions you missed because of some big case you were working on. I was a good wife supporting you so you'd make the next big promotion. I never complained about the long hours or the weeks we spent apart." She tossed her napkin down "but it was me who held the family together. I was there not you. I've earned the right to point the children on the paths they should follow."</div>
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"That's the problem isn't?" Jeff tossed back at his estranged wife "they're following your path not their own. Can't you see they're not happy?"</div>
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"I'm doing it for their own good" she shouted "they'll thank me for it later once they see I was right."</div>
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"Mother stop" Rita cried "I don't want to be a surgeon. I want to be with Jason working for Doctor's Without Borders. They need good nurses."</div>
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"There's no profit in that" Lisa scoffed "surgeons help people all the time and they don't have to risk their lives to do it." Turning to Jeff she demanded "do you know where she wants to go?"</div>
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Jeff turned away from her angry visage his gaze softening on his daughter "I think Rita is capable of making her own decisions. I commend her wanting to be a part of something that would benefit so many others in need."</div>
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"Thank you Daddy" she said her voice quivering.</div>
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"Why do I bother?" Lisa rolled her eyes "you obviously have no cue what she intends on doing." She paused making sure she had their attention "let me enlighten you. She wants to go to Lunar Lakes. How ridiculous is that?"</div>
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"People are dying mother" an edge crept into Rita's voice "I see nothing ridiculous about that." Turning to Jeff "Daddy please tell me you don't think it's ridiculous too. I want to help those people get the medical treatment they deserve."</div>
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"Of course it's not ridiculous" he pulled her close hugging her tight.</div>
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"Typical" Lisa grumbled "I always have to make the difficult decisions to ensure she doesn't ruin her life. Don't you care she could die by going there? People are sick and dying in the streets."</div>
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"That's why I have to go" Rita entreated her hoping she'd understand "the people of Lunar Lakes need help. I can help them." Turning to Jeff "if I take proper precautions I'd be no more at risk than anyone else. I know what to do to protect myself. I can do this."</div>
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"I know you can" he said despite the fear that gripped his heart. Simbola was an awful disease that lead to an even worse death. "Sweetheart if this is what you want to do. Do it. Don't let me or your mother stop you. Just be sure you're doing it because it's what you want and not what Jason wants."</div>
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"I know Daddy" looking across the table where her mom still stood "I want to do this. I want to help those people. It's not about money or prestige otherwise I'd stay in Medical School and become a surgeon like you want me to." As Lisa opened her mouth to launch a protest Rita shook her head "let me finish" she snapped "I love you but it's time I live my own life not the one you want me to have. I've twenty-four years old. I don't need your permission to do this. I am going to do this."</div>
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Giving Jeff a piercing glare Lisa moved towards the door "you and I need to talk."</div>
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Jeff stood feeling like he was about to face a firing squad. Before following Lisa outside he stopped long enough to hug his daughter "I'm sorry."</div>
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"It's ok Daddy" she kissed his cheek "it needed to be said and I needed to say it."</div>
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"I'm so proud of you" he kissed her cheek before going outside to receive the blast the mother of his children was going to give him.</div>
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Jeff found Lisa outside with her back to the door arms crossed. He could feel the tense angry vibrations radiating from her. "I don't get it" she complained "you were never there when they were little yet all of them have become just like you."</div>
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"There are other ways of being there than just being physically present" Jeff pointed out wishing he could make her see what the rest of them could.</div>
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"I was the one there every day" Lisa continued as if he hadn't spoken at all "that should count for something."</div>
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"It does" Jeff agreed "but were you listening?"</div>
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"I'm their mother" she snapped "I know what's best for them. I see now I should have been stricter; especially with Tommy."</div>
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"You can't control them. That's not what parenting is supposed to be" Jeff walked up beside her "our job is to guide them as they become the people they want to be."</div>
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Snorting Lisa turned to him "they're ruining their lives. I don't want a fairy for a grandson. I don't want my daughter dying from some obscure disease when she could be home safe and sound."</div>
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"Lisa they're adults" Jeff could hear his frustration rising in his voice making it crackle with stress "they need to make their own decisions. Sometimes that means we're not going to like them. We're not going to agree with them. It's their lives to live not ours." How many times would he have to repeat himself before this finally sank in?"</div>
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"How can you be so lackadaisical about this?" she demanded pounding her fists against his chest "their lives are ruined and you don't care."</div>
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"Who says their lives are ruined just because they aren't doing things your way?" Jeff asked "Tommy loves his wife and child. He may not be a monetary success yet but he has a wonderful family and a book on the best selling list. That has to count for something."</div>
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"I suppose Rita quitting medical school to be with some guy she barely knows is fine too" she walked several steps away looking up into the sky.</div>
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"She's known Jason for six years" Jeff pointed out following her "he's her fiance not just some boy."</div>
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"He's what?" she cried whirling around gaping at him.</div>
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"They're engaged" he could tell Lisa hadn't known. Why did this continue to happen? Why couldn't the kids tell their mother these things instead of letting him spill it unintentionally for them? "I thought you knew" he tried to explain "Rita was wearing her engagement ring."</div>
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"Of course I didn't know. They never tell me these things" she turned around walking towards her car "I'm done. They want to ruin their lives they're on their own." She got into the car glaring up at Jeff as he held the door open refusing to let her go.</div>
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"Don't do this Lisa" he pleaded "not again. She loves you. Your her mother. She wants your approval."</div>
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"Then tell her to say in school" Lisa hissed.</div>
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"Why must there be conditions?" Jeff demanded "why can't you just accept them for who they are?"</div>
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"Goodbye Jeffrey" she said putting the car in gear.</div>
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He jumped back allowing the door to swing shut. He shook his head at her as she glared at him through the windshield. She knew how much he hated her calling him Jeffrey. The way she said it made his teeth hurt. Why couldn't she see the more she pushed the less she got in return?</div>
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***</div>
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The door opened behind him and Rita ran past him. "Mother wait" she cried "I'll stay. I'll go to medical school. I'll..." She stopped as the car drove out of sight.</div>
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Jeff ran up beside her. Dropped to his knees pulling her close "I'm sorry sweetie."</div>
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"Why aren't I enough?" Rita cried clinging to him "why does she keep asking for more? I thought I was doing the right thing going to college. She was so proud of me. Then it was medical school like being a nurse wasn't good enough." She looked up through her tears "I liked being a nurse. Talking to the patients. Calming their fears. I've seen so many doctors where the patients are just numbers. They have no time to get to know the people they treat. It's all so impersonal."</div>
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"Sweetie if that's how you feel why were you going to comply with your mother's wishes?" Jeff asked stroking her hair.</div>
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"I hate knowing I've disappointed her" she sniffed "I don't want to disappoint Jason either."</div>
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"I noticed you were wearing your ring," Jeff said "I thought you had told your mother about your engagement."</div>
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"I hoped she'd notice" Rita squeezed his hand "stupid huh?"</div>
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"No not stupid" Jeff hugged her "I'm sorry you're being forced to choose between them."</div>
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"What should I do?" she cried looking to him for answers "I don't want to hurt either of them but" she bit her lip unable to go on.</div>
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"But" Jeff tilted her face up to his "no one can make this decision for you. Only you know what's in your heart. Listen to it. I'll love you no matter what you decide."</div>
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A smile spread across her face "even if I make the wrong choice?"</div>
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"Even if" he smiled back at her "a wrong decision is something you can learn from. Just be sure you decide for yourself. Don't worry about what I want or what you mother wants. It's not our decision to make. It's yours."</div>
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"You think I should go don't you?" she asked a hopeful gleam in her eyes.</div>
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"I can't make this decision for you" he smiled down at her "I have every confidence that you can make it for yourself."</div>
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"Thanks Daddy," she hugged him tight "you always make things so much better."</div>
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She ran ahead of him towards the house. He watched her sadly. He knew eventually he'd be kissing her goodbye. She'd choose to join Jason in Lunar Lakes. He'd spend his nights awake worrying about her until the Simbola outbreak was under control. Hoping and praying his little girl wouldn't be one of it's many victims. He'd repeat to himself that it was her decision and he'd be proud of her regardless.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-2909332026917176082017-04-27T07:21:00.000-05:002017-04-27T07:21:37.449-05:004.34 One Bad Situation After Another<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Author's Note: This chapter contains subject matter that might be distressing to some. Please do not read if you have a problem with the mention of death, murder, teen sex and pregnancy.<br />
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Silver ran a finger along the debris ridden experiment strewn table. He watched the man hunched over his test tubes, glasses perched on the bridge of his nose. Clearing his throat Silver watched with a measure of interest when the Van Winkle patriarch jumped as if prodded by an electrical charge.<br />
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Turning Peter knocked over a beaker of yellowish goo that dripped slowly to the floor. "What are you doing here?" he demanded once his eyes locked on the white haired male.<br />
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"To help" Silver announced with a wave of his hand.<br />
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"Yeah right" Peter grumbled turning to remove a beaker from the heat.<br />
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Stooping he wiped up the gelatinous yellow goop from the floor.<br />
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"Why must everyone assume I'm a bad guy?" Silver asked his voice overly grieved as if it wounded his feelings that anyone would think his motives were less than pure.<br />
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"Are you serious?" Peter grunted in dismay as he wiped the goo from his fingers "you've tormented my family for years. You have some gall to feel put upon when we naturally assume you're the bad guy." He looked up his blue eyes flashing "that's like asking a poisonous snake not to bite. It just can't be done."<br />
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"Pity" Silver fingered the beakers arranged on the table.<br />
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"Don't" Peter glared at Silver as he tipped some of the contents onto the table.<br />
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"Don't what?" Silver asked with a sneer "I thought I'm the bad guy. Bad guys destroy things just because they can."<br />
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"So you admit to being the bad guy" Peter watched the man's fingers hovering over the next beaker.<br />
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Silver tipped the beaker over spilling the contents onto the counter "I guess a tiger can't change his stripes."<br />
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"Guess not" Peter grunted turning his back on the man "leave when you're finished making the mess you've come to make."<br />
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Silver smirked. He liked that Peter was unfazed by his antics. "What would you say if I could provide you with the DNA sample you need for your experiments?"<br />
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Peter held his breath a moment before exhaling "Quinn would never give the sample to you."<br />
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"She wouldn't have to" Silver dismissed the idea "the DNA is mine."<br />
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"That's not the DNA I need" Peter resumed his work hoping the irksome man would get the hint and leave.<br />
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"I'm the product of that original experiment" Silver let his words hang in the air between them "I knew that would get your attention." Silver grinned like the Cheshire cat pleased with himself.<br />
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"It does make a difference" Peter grudgingly agreed "the question now is what do you want from me?"<br />
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"That's the rub isn't it?" Silver chuckled "you're right I do want something. How much are you willing to do for a chance to solve this infertility problem? Will you give your great great granddaughter a chance to have her own family?" He knew by the look on Peter's face he had the man hooked. All he had to do was reel him in.<br />
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Phoebe sat on the bench her leg bouncing up and down while she waited for her boyfriend to arrive. A twig snapped causing her to jump up in surprise. Whirling around she found a couple of squirrels running from tree to tree in search of nuts. With an aggrieved moan she sank onto the bench to wait. She glanced at her phone. He was late. What was taking him so long? Her fingers hovered over the keys debating whether or not she should send another text. Closing her eyes she resisted the urge. What use would it make? He hadn't responded to the last three messages she had sent. Why would this one be any different?<br />
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Restlessly she got to her feet. She swung her arms as she paced back and forth in front of the bench. She tried not to think about the reluctance she heard in his voice when she last spoke to him. The grudging agreement when he said he'd meet her. Things hadn't been the same since that night.<br />
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She hugged her arms tight around herself as her mind drifted. It had been a full moon she recalled. It had been so bright. They hadn't needed flashlights to guide them to their favorite place. A smile graced her lips as she remembered the way the air seemed to sizzle with magic as his hands caressed her skin. His touch made her skin tingle with a heat she'd never felt before. When his lips met hers her mouth opened inviting him in. Everything within her came alive. She felt his heart beating in his chest as her hands explored his body. His hands moved up her shirt unclasping her bra. Everything was happening so fast. Her brain was yelling at her to slow down. As one new sensation swept through after another her brain completely switched off.<br />
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Before she fully realized what they were doing she woke up in his arms naked shivering from the cool breeze. The sky had a rosy hue as the sun began to rise. He had nuzzled up close to her murmuring in his sleep as she tried to crawl out from beneath him. "We need to go home" she said as he protested her attempts to wake him.<br />
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The wind stirred her hair. It was hard believe that magical night was six weeks ago. Hard to believe that the boy she gave her virginity to had hardly spoken to her since that night. What she thought had been a magical, special, mind blowing moment had been nothing more to him than sex. Tears pricked her eyes as a feeling of shame and worthlessness swept through her. How had she been so blind. Did she really think at fourteen well fifteen in less than a month, she'd find her one true love? Yet she had believed. She still believed in love at first sight. Believed there was one person for everyone. She had been an idiot.<br />
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"Well" his voice startled her "I'm here." He tossed his dark hair from his eyes the suns rays picking out the purple highlights.<br />
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She put a hand up to her chest "you startled me" she gasped.<br />
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Crossing his arms he smirked "I don't have all day."<br />
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"I..." she bit her lip staring into is handsome face. He was older then her. More experienced. She knew instinctively she wasn't his first "I think I might be pregnant."<br />
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His eyes went wide then narrowed an instant later "you think it's mine?"<br />
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Her mouth dropped open upon hearing the doubt in his voice "of course it's yours if I'm pregnant," she stammered. She reached a shaking hand up to wipe away the angry tears that were cascading down her cheeks "I...I've never had sex before that night or since."<br />
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He had an odd look in his eyes as he gazed down at her "what do you expect me to do about it?"<br />
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His voice was brittle. His tone confirmed what she already thought, that night meant nothing to him except another notch on his belt. What a fool she had been to think he loved her. "Nothing" she spat at him "I want nothing from you."<br />
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Shrugging he took a step forward "then why am I here?"<br />
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"I thought you might want to know," she took a deep breath willing the tears to stop. She didn't want him to see her cry.<br />
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"Anything else" he asked his voice clipped and bored.<br />
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Crossing her arms she looked him up and down "you don't really care do you?" She didn't know why she asked. The answer was written all over him.<br />
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"Not in the slightest" he turned to walk away.<br />
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"Don't ever call me again" she called after him "I never want to see you again." She held it together long enough to watch him walk out of the part before sinking onto the bench. Now what was she going to do?<br />
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Phoenix knew something was wrong the moment he arrived in his haven. It was silent. Too silent. The trees were still which they never were. Where were the twins?</div>
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"You've been keeping secrets" a man said as he came from the house.</div>
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His heart thudded against his chest as the emissary came to a stop in front of him. "I don't know what you mean" he said evasively eyes never leaving the emissaries face.</div>
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Tapping his fingers on a device the twins appeared before them held within a stasis field "are these not your children?"</div>
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"Dad" the twins cried at once struggling in their invisible prison "what's happening?"</div>
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"It's going to be alright" his voice confident despite the panic that made his heart pound.</div>
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"Who is their mother?" the emissary demanded unconcerned with the fear he was raising in the children.</div>
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Phoenix gave the man a cool calculated stare "their mother is none of your concern."</div>
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The emissaries eyes glared at him with undisguised anger "I beg to differ. Their mother is of great concern. She's another watcher. Don't bother to deny it. Who is she?"</div>
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Phoenix turned his gaze away from the enraged man. He knelt before his children "don't be afraid. No matter what happens. Don't be afraid."</div>
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They nodded eyes round with fear despite their father's words to the contrary. "We love you daddy" </div>
<div>
Ivy cried wanting to bury her head on her father's chest. Feel his comforting arms around her.</div>
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"I know sweetheart" Phoenix blinked back tears not wanting them to see him cry "Ellery take care of your sister."</div>
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"I will dad" he nodded eyes moist with tears but like his father he was keeping the waterworks from gushing.</div>
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"Isn't this sweet" the emissary cooed "too bad the boy won't be able to keep his promise."</div>
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"You can't separate them" Phoenix protested as if he had any power to prevent it.</div>
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"Who is the mother?" the emissary demanded.</div>
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Phoenix wanted nothing more then to gather his children to his side. Hug and kiss them. Assure them that no matter what happened they would have each other. He couldn't do or say any of that. It was all too clear the emissary was going to take them. Separate them from each other and everything they ever knew. "I'm sorry" he whispered blinking fast.</div>
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"Very well" the emissary said coldly "you Phoenix Cross broke the watcher code of conduct. These illicit children are hereby property of the council to do with as they see fit."</div>
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"Wait" Phoenix implored "please allow me to say goodbye to them."</div>
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As if he were deaf to the man's pleas the emissary continued "all parental rights are hereby rescinded. The children known as Ellery and Ivy cross are given into the hands of the council." The heartlessness of the proceedings left them stunned. The man released the stasis field "with the power invested in me I give you the mark of the ...."</div>
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"Go" Phoenix shouted at his children hoping they remembered what they had prepared in case something like this happened.</div>
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Ellery grabbed his sisters hand nodding once towards his dad before vanishing with her. To Phoenix it felt like forever for the children to vanish but it was only a few seconds. A maneuver they had practiced in case it was necessary to evade the council. The twins were now truly on their own. In a dimension other than their own. </div>
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"Where did they go?" the emissary demanded coming towards Phoenix. The air vibrating with the beings rage. </div>
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Shaking his head Phoenix took a step backwards "I don't know and even if I did I wouldn't tell you."</div>
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"You don't know" the emissary shouted sending a bolt of energy towards Phoenix.</div>
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Phoenix stumbled back crying out in pain. Toppling over he was dimly aware of voices around him and the stricken look on the emissaries face. Then nothing but silence, darkness and pain.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Serafino waited at the edge of the castle boundaries. Why had Silver insisted on meeting him here? It was too close to his adversary. He glared up at the dark foreboding walls. This should have been his. Serafino could feel his rage bubbling up within him. </div>
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How could the clan elders be so stupid as to want a mongrel vampire as the ruler? Even the mongrel preferred to act and live like a human. It even had a human wife. On the other hand he was a pure breed. He was of noble stock. He Serafino should be the esteemed one of Moonlight Falls. If only his assignation attempt had been successful. Hard to imagine that was over ten years ago. Luckily for him he had not spent all those years in prison. He still had powerful allies.</div>
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He turned. His foot brushed against something in the thick brush. The wind rustled the air around him. He sniffed. It was thick with the scent of blood. Hungrily he followed the scent. It had been too long since he had the pleasure of dining on sweet succulent blood. Plasma fruit was no substitute for the real thing. The years he had been incarcerated and the following years of probation he had been deprived of the real thing. Treated like an common criminal. It irked him to know he had helped pass that law into existence. Even worse knowing Adam had argued to the contrary. His argument had been what if blood lust took over the criminal and that led him to kill someone. Like that would ever happen. He, Serafino was stronger than that.</div>
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His eyes glowed a dangerous glint within their orbs. His mouth watered as his hunger grew. Something lay in the bushes. Dropping to his knees beside the inert body all logic fled his mind as blood lust to control. His fangs protruded as he scooped the semiconscious woman in his arms. </div>
<div>
Her eyes fluttered open, emerald green and frightened. She murmured something as his fangs sank into her artery in her neck. He sucked hungrily upon the succulent nectar of her blood. As his blood lust abated he laid the woman's corpse on the ground where he had found her. Her blood dribbled down his chin staining the front of his shirt. He breathed deeply as his heart rate slowed to nothing. Opening his eye he moaned aloud "what have I done?" He reached an unsteady hand over to close the woman's eyelids unable to take the blank glossy stare. The woman's once rosy complexion was chalky white from having her life's blood drained from her. </div>
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<div>
Looking around he could see the castle walls through the thick shrubbery. With a sickening realization he knew Silver had set this whole thing up. Silver had arranged for him to be here. </div>
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<div>
Ensured the woman would be unable to call for help. Knew that Serafino would not be able to control the blood lust once it manifested itself inside him. This had been Silver's plan all along. He had never meant to follow through on his end of the bargain.</div>
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"Oh but I did" Silver smiled at the man "I said I'd take care of the woman." Gesturing towards her body "and I did."</div>
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Serafino swallowed, the taste of the woman's blood filled his mouth almost making him want to gag. "You framed me for murder" he growled.</div>
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"I didn't frame you" Silver laughed "I simply made it easy for you to commit murder."</div>
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The blood drained from Serafino's face "I didn't murder anyone..." he postured.</div>
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Silver stepped into the shadows "tell that to the guards while her blood drips from your chin."</div>
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"Where is she?" Adam cried stumbling into the crowded area. The guards parted allowing him access. "Beverly" he called her name falling to his knees beside her body. Crying he cradled her lifeless boy in his arms "Beverly don't leave me." He rocked her body back and forth moaning "don't leave me. I need you." He buried his face in her hair filling his senses with her lingering scent.</div>
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"What is he still doing here?" Keenan demanded.</div>
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"We are waiting for transport" one of the guards informed him.</div>
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Glancing towards his distraught father Keenan ordered "get him out of here before the esteemed one sees him."</div>
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The guards eyes slid towards Adam and nodded. Taking Serafino by the arms he prodded him into moving.</div>
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Struggling Serafino pleaded to Keenan "I didn't kill her."</div>
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"Of course you didn't" Keenan snapped "you only tried to kill my father and you want me to believe you didn't kill my mother. Do you think I'm an idiot? You have her blood all over you."</div>
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"You have to believe me" Serafino cried desperation taking control as he broke free from the guard "I was set up. I had no control over my actions."</div>
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Shaking the desperate man Keenan coldly glared at him "why should I believe you?"</div>
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"There's a bigger threat" Serafino insisted "he's the one who set this up."</div>
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Before Serafino could continue several guards led him away. Keenan watched silently dwelling upon Serafino's words. There was only one other person who was a bigger threat to his family. Keenan shivered as his mind said the man's name silently within his mind.</div>
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Keenan glanced over at his grieving father. The guards had gotten him to release Beverly's body. A sheet shrouded her body. Shoving aside everything else Keenan went to him "dad you're coming home with me."</div>
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Turning towards the sound of his son's voice Adam nodded with blank eyes. "She's gone," he moaned falling into his son's arms.</div>
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"It's going to be alright" Keenan soothed doubting every word he was saying. There was no way this would ever be alright.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-22401093863958579922017-04-22T09:32:00.001-05:002017-04-22T09:32:48.308-05:004.33 Gathering Storm Clouds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Phoenix returned sooner than expected from the minor problem he went to rectify. He was fairly certain things were progressing the way it should be despite disturbing news to the contrary from Quinn. At least that's what he thought until he returned home. He smiled hearing the twins voices as they played among the trees. They'd live in the trees if he'd let them.<br />
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"Watch this" Ivy asserted as she produced an apple with a few sparks.<br />
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"That's nothing" Ellery scoffed waving his hands around creating a small maelstrom of stars and sparkles before producing a small sapling.<br />
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"Cool" Ivy said her tone full of awe "how'd you do that?"<br />
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"It was easy" he said enjoying her applause.<br />
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Panic stirred within Phoenix.. How was this possible? Neither he nor Quinn had been magical beings before becoming dimension watchers. As far as he knew their powers were not transferable or hereditary. He stepped forward. His foot snapping a fallen twig alerting the children to his presence.</div>
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"Dad" they called running up to him.</div>
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Phoenix smiled as they threw their small bodies at him hugging him tight. He stroked their flaming red hair they received from him. He knelt on the ground in front of them."When did you learn to make an apple tree sapling?" he asked keeping his voice free of the urgency he felt.</div>
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Shrugging the little boy looked over towards his sister. "We don't know" she said "we just think it and it happens."</div>
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"Sometimes it's really hard" the boy added.</div>
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"And tiring" the girl nodded.</div>
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Phoenix bit his lip "when did this start?"</div>
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The twins exchanged glances before the boy replied "um a couple of years ago I guess. I don't know </div>
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exactly."</div>
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"Yes you do" the girl contradicted "it happened by accident and we've gotten better since."</div>
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"How old were you?" Phoenix insisted.</div>
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"Ten I think" Ellery said looking to Ivy for confirmation.<br />
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She nodded "ten. It was right after our birthday." She took her dad's hand "did we do something wrong?"<br />
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"No sweetheart" he kissed her cheek "I wish you had told me so we could have started your training though."<br />
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"Training?" Ellery asked "like school."<br />
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"Yes like school" Phoenix chuckled. He knew how much is son enjoyed his lessons "you need to learn to control your powers."<br />
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***</div>
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After watching the twins demonstrate what they could do with him coaching them he had a pretty good idea of their capabilities. No doubt their powers would continue to grow and that's what concerned him. Would the extra power usage draw unwelcome attention from the council? What would the repercussions be?</div>
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He paced the floor. Thoughts in a turmoil. What was he going to do? He couldn't put the kids lives in jeopardy by keeping them together but he couldn't separate them either. He couldn't send them away. They weren't old enough.</div>
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"Something on your mind?" a woman's voice interrupted his thoughts.</div>
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"Quinn" he cried swirling around to face her "we have a problem."</div>
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"What no it's good to see?" she asked frowning at his frenzied behavior.</div>
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"Sorry I..." he ran a hand through his long red hair "the kids have developed powers."<br />
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"What do you mean powers?" she asked watching him closely.<br />
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"Dimension watcher powers like you and I have" he sighed sitting heavily on the couch "I spent most of the evening testing them. Watching them as they showed me what they could do."<br />
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"Are you saying they inherited those abilities from us?" she asked picking up on some of his anxieties.<br />
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"Yes" he nodded looking at her.<br />
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"That's impossible" she cried "we were given the powers we have by the council. It's not something we were born with. It can't be hereditary."</div>
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"What if it is?" he asked gripping her wrists "it'd explain how Silver got so powerful."</div>
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She opened her mouth to deny it. That couldn't be right could it? What if it was? Maybe her ability as a fertility expert had to be increased by the powers she had been given. Using her DNA in creating Silver she had given him her powers because it was now part of her DNA. "The twins" she cried heart plummeting.</div>
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"Yeah the twins" he nodded "we need to teach them to control their powers so as not to alert the council to their presence."</div>
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"Are they safe here?" she asked "are you safe?" She took his hand holding it tight.</div>
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"I think so" Phoenix sighed "I don't know for how long though. We can't separate them at least not yet."</div>
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"We shouldn't move them either" Quinn leaned into him "it might draw more attention then if they remained here."</div>
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"What if the council comes?" Phoenix mumbled nibbling on his bottom lip "they'll take them away from us." He gulped fighting for control "I can't let that happen."</div>
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"That won't happen" she soothed "we'll come up with something. Trust me we'll keep them safe." She stroked his face letting him know she was there for him. He wasn't going through this alone. Together they'd keep their children safe. She just hoped she wasn't promising the impossible.</div>
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<i>His hands slid down his well toned torso. His fingers catching on the waist band of his jeans. His lips left a trail down his abs following his fingers. His prize was breathing hard from the stimulus his touch ignited. His fingers fumbled to release his ultimate goal. His mouth watered in anticipation.</i></div>
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"You're not listening to me" Serafino's voice whined at the white haired male seated before him.</div>
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Silver blinked having awoken from his stupor. Frowning at the man leaning to uncomfortably close to his face "it was an unforeseen complication."</div>
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"You guaranteed this would work" the man complained "you said it would discredit him. Show him as a weak ruler" Serafino threw himself deeper into his chair "you were wrong."</div>
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"I'm never wrong" Silver asserted "it would have worked except for the intervention of his son."</div>
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"At least that pitiful specimen is not in line to rule" Serafino joked "I have that to be thankful for."</div>
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"There's that" Silver nodded letting the vampire know he disapproved of his opinion of his son.</div>
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Eyes widening as he realized his blunder Serafino attempted to backpedal "being raised by that weak excuse of a vampire it's no surprise he turned out like he did."<br />
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Nodding Silver remained silent eyes blazing. He of all people knew how strong Adam and Keenan actually were. Deep down they had a hard inner core that was unbreakable. He kept that to himself.<br />
This simpleton didn't need to know Adam wasn't the push over he thought he was. "We need someone on the inside. Someone who can get close to Adam."<br />
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Snorting Serafino shook his head as he took his tea from the antique table beside him "not an easy task. He is hopelessly dedicated to that pitiful human."<br />
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"Leave her to me" Silver told him reaching forward for the mostly ignored cup. Taking a sip he looked over the rim, his eyes dancing with glee "I have something planned for her."<br />
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Serafino chuckled "I'd like to see that" he licked his lips "do you think once she's gone that he'll be coerced into accepting whoever we send to him?"<br />
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Silver raised an eyebrow at the man. Could the vampire really be this obtuse? That arrogant that Silver was doing all of this so that Serafino could become the next ruler of Moonlight Falls? He wanted one thing and one thing only. He smiled. One day soon he'd make his day dreams come true even if he had to share the man with Serafino's brainless airhead of a daughter. He would have his man and Serafino would have his coveted Moonlight Falls. That is unless Silver came up with a better plan.<br />
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"Ori don't run" Phoebe cried after her little brother who took off in the direction of the swings.<br />
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"He doesn't listen very well does he?" a voice said from behind her.<br />
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Turning Phoebe smiled up at the older boy. "He never listens" she threw her arms wide "but who can blame him? It's a beautiful day."<br />
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He smiled her laughter infectious "your the esteemed ones great granddaughter, aren't you?" he asked his green eyes sparkling.<br />
<br />
Nodding she shrugged "he's just Grandpa Adam to me. It's seems weird that he's the ruler of Moonlight Falls."<br />
<br />
Nodding he thought for a moment "I know what you mean. My dad is the esteemed ones trusted Mage."<br />
<br />
"Alanon" Phoebe said when the boy nodded she let out a shriek clapping her hands "so are you powerful like him? Can you cast spells and stuff?"<br />
<br />
"No" he sighed "I'm adopted." A shadow fell across his features.<br />
<br />
She put a hand out "don't be sad."<br />
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"I'm not" he objected "it's just I don't have any memories of who my real parents were. It's like I have a void in my head."<br />
<br />
She took his hand as she walked "I have to watch my brother. Knowing Orin he'll run off to something else and I'll never know where he went."<br />
<br />
"He sounds like a handful" the boy said allowing her to lead him towards the swings<br />
<br />
After a moment of silence Phoebe turned to the boy "you shouldn't worry about that void in your head."<br />
<br />
"Why?" he asked "everyone else like the school counselor think its a bad thing when I mention it."<br />
<br />
"It's there because you aren't supposed to remember what was before you were adopted" she said "what if the life you had before this was bad? Would you want to remember it?"<br />
<br />
He shook his head "when you put it like that I'm pretty lucky."<br />
<br />
"Yeah I think so too" she agreed "you know you're loved. You're happy. Whoever your parents were before doesn't matter. Come on let's swing" she said running and hopping onto one of the swings.<br />
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<div>
Kimberly walked hand in hand with Everett through the park enjoying a moment alone with her husband. "Should we be concerned" she motioned towards Phoebe and Malachi.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Everett watched the two kids talking before they turned and ran towards the swings. "No" he shook his head "they're just kids."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I know...it's just" she sighed her mind bringing up images of Malachi as an adult. Their first kiss. The way his green eyes lit up the room whenever he walked in "it's just weird. That's all."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It's only weird to you" he tweaked her nose "you remember what he was like in college. He doesn't have those memories. He's just like any other twelve year old kid."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I know" she looked away "but they won't always be kids."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Wow you're jumping way ahead" he laughed "Phoebe's only nine. Way too young to be serious about any boy."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Now whose kidding whom?" she asked arching an eyebrow "I had my first crush on a boy when I was her age."</div>
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<div>
"Crushes I can handle" he said with a smile "I'm not ready for my little girl to start dating."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Neither am I" Kimberly sighed leaning into him "what will we do if those two decide to date in the future?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
His deep chuckle startled her "honey why does it matter? It's not like he's related to us. It's not like he'd be dating her because of old memories or feelings he had for you. Just relax. Let them be kids. If things develop between them let it happen naturally."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lifting her head from his chest she smiled up at him "I love you" she giggled as he wrapped his arms around her holding her tight.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I love you too" he kissed her mouth in a quick affirming way "even though your being weird about your ex-boyfriend." He frowned down at her "do you regret the way things turned out?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Never" she reached up pulling his face down to hers "it happened the way it should have. I love you."</div>
</div>
<div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
"I hate this dreary old castle" Adam mumbled coming up behind Beverly and drawing her close to him.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Adam" she chastised him as her ladle fell to the floor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Sorry" he murmured between kisses along her neck. He could hear the blood whooshing along her veins. The smell heightened by his desire filled his senses. Moments like these he had to wrestle the vampire down so it didn't take control. He never wanted to scare or hurt his most beloved treasure. He smiled as she relented moving in his arms and meeting his lips with her own. "I love you so much" he said looking into her ageless green eyes. They were as brilliant as they were the first time they had met.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I love you too" she smiled up at him her mind going back to the first time they met. He had come to the door in his robe that had fallen open. She couldn't keep her eyes from staring at his toned chest and abs. Even after all these years he had only gotten better looking.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What's for dinner?" he asked sniffing the air "it smells good." It was a plasma fruit dish he recognized as a favorite of his youngest son along with a human dish. Over the years Beverly had gotten quite adept at cooking for him and Keenan. Giving them a variety of dishes to enjoy like they were normal instead of blood sucking monsters.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turning to the stove she busied herself with the last of the food prep before saying "I hope you don't mind I invited Keenan and Lydia over for supper."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Of course not" he said stepping back giving her room to work. "Need some help?" he asked feeling useless standing there like a lump while she worked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Would you mind setting the table?" she asked without turning from the stove.</div>
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He moved towards the cupboard to pull out the everyday dishes when Beverly's voice stopped him "not those Adam. Use the good china" she pointed towards the cabinet they seldom used.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What's the occasion" he asked. He hated fuss. The good China reminded him of state dinners with the clan leaders.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She turned smiling at him "I think they've got an announcement to make."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh" he smiled "must mean we're going to be grandparents again." He saw the look of astonishment on her face "well they're not getting married. They did that last year."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Don't spoil their surprise" she admonished him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I wouldn't do that" he shook his head his mind going back to when he found out about each of his children The only one he had been truly happy about was Jonah. He was the product of his and Beverly's love for each other. His one regret was that they didn't have more children together. Jonah was grown now. Married with children of his own living in Twinbrook. By now he looked the same age as Adam. His visits had become fewer and fewer as the years passed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It had been heart breaking watching their son leave home for a normal human life. The only one of his children wholly human. He couldn't begrudge him that decision. If he had the choice he'd leave Moonlight Falls for a normal life to. He wasn't normal so there wasn't any sense dwelling on it.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He shook his head finding Beverly gazing up at him in concern. "Stop it" she said firmly "whatever it is your thinking about just stop."</div>
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He grunted "you know me too well." He didn't bother to deny his thoughts had slipped into unhappy territory</div>
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<div>
"She's had years of experience" the sound of his son's voice brought a smile to Adam's face.</div>
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<div>
"Keenan it's good to see you" he enthused.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"It's not like we don't see each other at least once a week" Keenan pointed out giving his dad a hug.</div>
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<div>
"Don't mind your father" Beverly smiled at the young couple "he's in a melancholy mood today."</div>
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<div>
Keenan gave his dad a concerned look asking in his head "anything we need to be concerned about?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Giving his wife a quick concerned glance Adam responded back "there's a rumor that Serafino is appealing his case."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"He can't do that" Keenan shouted forgetting to keep the conversation just between his dad and him. He felt Lydia and his mom staring at him with identical looks of concern upon their faces. </div>
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<div>
"I hate it when they carry on a conversation we can't hear" Beverly chided giving her husband and son a pointed look. Taking Lydia's hand she led the girl to the kitchen "let's give them some privacy to discuss whatever they need to."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Lydia nodded turning to follow her mother-in-law after giving Keenan's face a piercing look. He nodded giving her a slight smile urging her to go with his mom. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Well?" he asked expectantly when the girls were absorbed in meal preparation.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He's claiming he was set up" Adam explained abandoning all pretense to keep his voice down.</div>
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<div>
"That's ridiculous" Keenan growled "if he gets out he'll come after you again. I hope the elders realize that."</div>
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<div>
"He's still incarcerated" Adam assured him "he won't be doing anything yet."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"How can you be so relaxed about this?" Keenan demanded.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Because there's nothing I can do about it" Adam gave his son's shoulder a firm shake "until he poses a threat I can't do anything. I have to sit back and wait." He looked over his son's shoulder towards the girls "while we wait we plan. I won't be caught off guard a second time."</div>
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The woman opened the door leading into the lab where a lone man worked humming softly to himself. She walked behind him careful not to disturb him. </div>
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"Are you here to check on my progress?" he asked looking up from his notes.</div>
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"The sooner we have a solution the better" she replied.</div>
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"It'd help if I had a sample of the DNA used in the original experiment" he said.</div>
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"No" the woman refused "it was the use of that DNA that caused the problem we have today."</div>
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"We have this mess because you took unacceptable short cuts" he gave her a severe no nonsense glare.</div>
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"I thought I was helping" she shot back feeling attacked.</div>
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The man made hand dampening motions "alright alright calm down. You made a mistake. I get that." He sighed leaning on the table "It makes my work so much more difficult."</div>
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"What would that particular DNA tell you?" she asked her anger all but abated.</div>
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"I don't know" he sighed lifting his head to stretch "All I do know is I'm working with half the information I need to piece this together. It's like trying to put a puzzle together without all the pieces. The piece I need could bring everything together."</div>
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"Keep working" she demanded walking towards the door "do what you can with the information you have."</div>
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"It's not going to work" the man called after her.</div>
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<br />DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-13040732471803276592017-04-17T18:05:00.000-05:002017-04-17T18:05:30.466-05:004.32 The Visit<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Tommy sank to the floor stunned. His phone slipped from his fingers. Keenan watched him in concern from where he stood "what's wrong?" he asked when he was sure Tommy wasn't being theatrical.</div>
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"My mom she's" he licked his lips that felt as if he had walked through a desert for hours "she's coming for a visit."</div>
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"That's good isn't it?" Keenan asked puzzled. He knew Tommy had a stormy relationship with his mom but he always thought they were ok otherwise.</div>
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"You don't understand" Tommy cried bringing his face to his knees "she doesn't know about Velvet. The baby.</div>
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Keenan distinctly remembered hearing his roommate telling someone about Velvet. He had thought it was his mother "what are you talking about? I thought you told her you had a girlfriend..."</div>
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"Yeah a girlfriend" he sighed "I never got the chance to tell her Velvet was a Bumble fairy. You know how she is about supernaturals."</div>
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"Did you think your mom would never want to come for a visit?" Keenan asked more curious then anything else.</div>
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"Kinda" Tommy leaned his head back against the wall "she's going to go ballistic when she finds out about the baby."</div>
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"Why?" Keenan asked an edge in his voice.</div>
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"Not only will it be her first grandchild but she doesn't think much of supernaturals. How do you think she's going to react knowing her grandchild will be part bumble? She hated me moving here instead of going to college. She thinks I'm throwing my life away and this will only confirm it."</div>
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"Doesn't she have anyone else to harass?" Keenan asked half joking.</div>
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"Not really" he groaned "Patrick is the perfect one following in grandpa and dad's footsteps in becoming a top notch investigator. His career is on track including a beautiful fiance mom adores. Rita is practically a carbon copy of mom. She's about to finish her degree and start medical school."</div>
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"And here you are" Keenan added "a twenty year old, uneducated, high school graduate with a pregnant girlfriend. You're right. You're dead meat."</div>
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"Gee thanks" Tommy gave him a grim smile "you know how to make me feel so much better."</div>
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"What are friends for?" Keenan ducked as Tommy took a swing at him "hey don't kill the messenger. </div>
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It's not my fault you haven't told your mom about Velvet yet."</div>
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"What am I gonna do?" he laid back on the floor "I'm a dead man."</div>
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"You really should have gone into acting" Keenan laughed gazing down at his friend. "I know" he snapped his fingers "we could invite your dad to come at the same time. You know he could take some of the heat off you."</div>
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"Yeah" Tommy nodded slowly "that would work." Looking up at Keenan he laughed "why didn't I think of that."</div>
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"You were too busy planning your funeral" Keenan chuckled picking up Tommy's phone from where he had dropped it "call your dad. Maybe he can rescue you from the mess you're in." Keenan turned to walk away stopped "you should tell Velvet what's happening so that she's prepared."</div>
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Tommy walked over to Velvet's house she shared with Lydia. He took a deep breath that did little to still his beating heart. He wished for the hundredth time he had been able to reach his dad before coming. His dad would have known what he should do after years of dealing with his mom. </div>
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Before he could knock Velvet opened the door looking startled to find him standing there. "Tommy what are you doing here?" she cried taking a step back "did we have plans?"</div>
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"I'm sorry" he muttered "I should have called first." Noticing the keys in her hand "are you going somewhere?"</div>
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"It can wait" she said "just a quick trip to the store for some milk. Nothing important." She took his hand leading him to the porch swing "what's wrong?" she asked her eyes filled with concern.</div>
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Tommy sighed something was different between them. He could feel it but couldn't identify it. Something happened. He was sure something happened to Velvet that she wasn't telling him. He squeezed her hand "you know I love you right?" At his question he could see the worry in her eyes deepen. He licked his dry lips as he felt the walls of the hole he had dug crumbling in around him.</div>
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She nodded frowning "what's wrong?"</div>
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He missed the days when Velvet would brush off any concerns for him or his worry as being just a human foible. He could use a little of that aloofness right now. "My mom is coming for a visit" he blurted out in a rush wanting it over with.</div>
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"That's great" she smiled at him "I know how close you are with your family."</div>
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"It's not that" he clutched her hand "my mom is very opinionated. she never wanted me to move here. I'm a ...." he looked away running a hand through his hair "I'm a disappointment to her. She wanted me to go to college. You know to become a doctor or lawyer. Instead I came here to research supernaturals for a book I'm writing." He got up unable to sit still any longer. He prowled the porch in quick jerky steps.</div>
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Velvet watched him for a few minutes "she doesn't know about me does she?"</div>
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"She knows I have a girlfriend" he explained going to her and taking her hands in his.</div>
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"She doesn't know I'm a supernatural does she?" Velvet's voice was rising "are you embarrassed of me?"</div>
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"No of course not" he shook his head "I just didn't know how to tell her. Now she's coming and I ..." he looked into her eyes. He could see the tears she was trying to hide "I never meant to hurt you. I'm sorry."</div>
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"Alright" she took several deep breaths reminding herself that this omission paled in comparison to what she was keeping from him.</div>
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He blinked expecting a different reaction "I have never been embarrassed of you. I love you. I hope our baby will be just like you" He sighed "you have to understand my mom doesn't like anyone who doesn't follow her rules. I always felt confined living within those rules and expectations. I never thought she'd come here knowing how she felt about supernaturals."</div>
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"You had to have known she'd want to meet me eventually" Velvet said trying to sound reasonable despite the panic welling up inside her.</div>
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"Yes I should have expected her to do something like this" he lowered his head into his hands </div>
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"knowing her she already knows about you and is going to demand we break up."</div>
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"She can try" Velvet stroked his bent head "she can't make us do anything we don't want to do. You don't want to break up with me do you?"</div>
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"No of course not. I want to marry you" he incautiously blurted.</div>
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"Is that a proposal?" she asked him a slight smile upon her lips.</div>
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"Yes" he slipped a small box from his pocket as he got down on one knee. "I imagined this going a whole lot different" he took a shaky breath as he held the ring up to her "I can't imagine my life without you in it. I love you with everything I am. I want to spend forever with you and if forever isn't possible I'll be thankful for whatever time we're blessed with. Will you marry me?"</div>
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Tears rolled unheeded down Velvet's cheeks.She nodded too choked up to utter a single word. She held her hand out waiting for him to slip the ring on her finger. This was what she imagined this moment being like. Not the sterile announcement of her future betrothal to someone she had known all her life and didn't love. This human. This man held her heart. She didn't care who didn't approve of her choice. He was hers and she was his. She fell into his arms once the ring slid into place. His mother could like it or lump it. Velvet was going to marry her son.</div>
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Early the next morning someone was knocking loudly on the boy's front door. "Whoever that is better have a good reason for waking us up so early" Keenan growled leaning against the wall eyes blurry from lack of sleep.</div>
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"They better" Tommy grumbled going to answer the summons before whoever it was knocked again. </div>
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"Dad" he cried blinking as if unsure of what his eyes were telling him "what are you doing here?"</div>
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Jeff smiled pulling his youngest son into his arms "your message sounded urgent."</div>
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"So you came here instead of calling" Tommy stared at his father in disbelief.</div>
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"Sort of" he shrugged "I was in Midnight Hollow when you called. I thought since I was this close I'd come and see what you needed."</div>
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"Have you had breakfast yet?" Keenan asked shuffling into their small kitchen "I can make descent waffles."</div>
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"Meaning they're not burnt" Tommy joked.</div>
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"Which is better than your hockey pucks" Keenan retorted.</div>
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"If you wanted to get dressed I could take us all out for breakfast" Jeff offered.</div>
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"It's up to you" Keenan said turning to Tommy "but if you want to talk privately I'd do it here though."</div>
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Jeff gave them both an incomprehensible look "are all the restaurants bugged or something?"</div>
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"Might as well be" Tommy laughed covering up his nervousness.</div>
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"Supernaturals have better hearing then humans do" Keenan explained "if you want to talk you don't do it where you can be overheard."</div>
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"Oh" Jeff nodded "I hadn't thought of that."</div>
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"Most people don't who haven't grown up around supernaturals" Keenan shook his head at them "so waffles it is then." He moved towards the kitchen "you two talk while I cook."</div>
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Following Tommy into the living room Jeff sat down crossing his legs "what's so urgent you had to call me multiple times?"</div>
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Picking at a loose thread on his pajama bottoms Tommy sighed "mom's coming for a visit."</div>
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"Oh" Jeff said drumming his fingers on his knee "you think I can divert her attention from you or something?"</div>
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"Well" Tommy looked away "I was hoping."</div>
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"Your mother loves you" Jeff spoke firmly "you don't have anything to worry about."</div>
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"What if she doesn't like Velvet?" he asked "you know how she is about supernaturals."</div>
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"You haven't' told her yet" Jeff leaned forward "son you and I both know your mother is demanding." </div>
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Tommy grunted rolling his eyes "give her a chance. She might surprise you. Let her meet Velvet. Let her form her own opinions. Getting all worked up over something that hasn't happened yet won't do anyone any good."</div>
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"You make it sound so easy" Tommy complained "will you please be here when she comes?"</div>
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Jeff hesitated a fraction of a moment "when will she be here?" he asked.</div>
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"Next weekend" Tommy informed him "it might help her reaction."</div>
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"Or it might make it worse if she thinks we're ganging up against her" Jeff pointed out "but I'll be here."</div>
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"Thanks dad" Tommy smiled relieved "you're a life saver." They got up when Keenan informed them breakfast was ready "dad I have something else to tell you" Tommy took a bite of the not so bad waffle.</div>
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"You better not tell me Velvet's having twins" Jeff teased smothering his waffle in syrup.</div>
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"One is more than enough thank you very much" Tommy looked towards Keenan for moral support "I um....asked Velvet to marry me."</div>
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"Believe it or not" Keenan piped in "she said yes."</div>
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"Congratulations son" Jeff smiled genuinely pleased "she's a lucky girl."</div>
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"Actually I'm the lucky one" Tommy contradicted blushing deeply.</div>
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"You" Mr Lawrence scowled through the bars at Jeff "I should have known better then to have trusted you."</div>
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Nodding Jeff couldn't help but agree. Turning from the criminal mastermind he put a hand on Kyle's shoulder "he can't hurt you or anyone else ever again."</div>
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"Thank you" Kyle stammered unable to take his eyes from the apparition in front of him "I never thought this day would come."</div>
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Mr Lawrence sneered at his son from the other side of the iron bars "you haven't heard the last of me" he blustered "I'll be back. You'll regret the indignities you've put me through."</div>
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Kyle stared coldly at his father. He felt Elliot slide his arm comfortingly around him. He watched as his father's eyes lit up in disgust. He opened his mouth to respond to the man's threats only to have another voice interrupt him.</div>
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"You won't be getting out" Heath said confidently stepping into the small space "you've been tried for your crimes by your peers."</div>
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"The hell I have" Lawrence snarled "I have no peers. I'm better than all of you."</div>
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"We thought you might feel that way" Jeff cut in "which is why we took extra precautions in bringing you in."</div>
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"I won't be brought down by a mere human or half breed" Mr Lawrence blustered "I have people to prevent these things from happening."</div>
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"Not anymore" Heath shook his head "your so called people have formally withdrawn their support." He held up a document signed and notarized "they won't be helping you this time." </div>
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Mr Lawrence's eyes blazed with rage as he attempted to snatch the document from Heath's hands.</div>
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Several guards rushed forward to intercede between the older man and their ruler. "As you can see things have changed since you've been here last" Heath carefully handed the document to one of his aides "you have no power here."</div>
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"What do you want me to say?" the man snarled "I won't apologize" he pierced his son and son-in-law with a look that would kill if thoughts were actions.</div>
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"Nothing" Kyle said guiding Elliot to the door "I want absolutely nothing from you."</div>
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"You say that now" he shouted at their backs "you'll miss me when I'm gone."</div>
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Turning Kyle walked towards the man behind bars "no I won't. How can I miss someone who was never there for me? Not in the way normal father's are there for their children. Loving them. Guiding them. Helping them. All you've ever done is try to control me. Make me do as you wanted." He sighed turning to look at his husband "all I ever wanted was to be loved. What I got was hate and manipulation." Turning back to face his father "No I won't miss you except to wonder where that thorn in my side went. I won't think of you ever and neither will my children."</div>
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"Come back here" Lawrence shouted yanking on the bars "you can't speak to me like that. I'm your father."</div>
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Grimly Heath watched his Uncles leave the room while the enraged man continued to hurl abuse at them. "Pity" he said "that all you can think of saying is more hate instead of seeking forgiveness in your final moments."</div>
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"What final moments?" Mr Lawrence snapped.</div>
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"You know as well as I do the punishment for harming another IF." Heath said accompanied with the unanimous nods from the guards flanking either side of him.</div>
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"That law doesn't apply to me" the man scoffed with a dismissive wave of his hand.</div>
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"It does if you're in Midnight Hollow" Heath pointed out "which I might add you've been in Midnight Hollow for the last several hours."</div>
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Mr Lawrence pierced Jeff with a baleful glare "you tricked me." He reached a hand out towards the man. "I'll kill you" he screamed as he clutched nothing but air.</div>
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Glancing at the time Jeff spoke quietly to Heath "I have to leave. I promised my son I'd come this weekend."</div>
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"We can take care of what needs doing without you" Heath assured him "go be with your son. He's going to need all the moral support he can get."</div>
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Jeff walked into the small house following Keenan to the table. "Sorry I'm late" he addressed the entire table.</div>
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Lisa's eyes snapped as she tossed her napkin down "the least you could have done was call. This is your son's future after all."</div>
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"Mom please" Tommy protested "I'm sure dad had important business to take care of." He shot his dad an apologetic glance.</div>
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Jeff smiled over at his wife "let's not fight shall we. We're here to celebrate our son's engagement."</div>
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"Engagement" Lisa shouted looking at her son with dismay "you can't marry that that thing" she waved a hand towards Velvet.</div>
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"Mom please" Tommy stammered "I told you I had a girlfriend."</div>
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"A girlfriend yes. Not a fiance. There's a big difference between the two." She glared across the table at her husband "don't just sit there. Do something."</div>
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"Like what?" Jeff demanded " Tommy's an adult. He's capable of making his own decisions."</div>
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"He's throwing his life away" Lisa protested. </div>
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Ignoring her Jeff took a bite of the meal he knew Velvet had spent hours preparing "mmm delicious" he smiled warmly at the young woman he knew would be his daughter-in-law some day. "Who says our son is throwing his life away? He's doing what he loves. Writing. My father was a writer. He made a good living for himself and family."</div>
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"Tommy should be in college getting an education" Lisa protested "not in this backwards little town living with freaks."</div>
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There was a combined gasp around the table. Velvet pushed her chair back hand over her mouth as she ran from the room. "Mother how could you?" Tommy exclaimed as he pushed past her to follow Velvet.</div>
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"Lisa you and I need to talk" Jeff said pushing his chair back and standing.</div>
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After a moment Lisa stood and followed him from the house "I blame you for this" she hissed once they were outside on the porch.</div>
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"Me?" he shook his head "our son is twenty years old. He's been living on his own for two years. He doesn't need our approval on who he marries or what he does with his life."</div>
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"I know" she snapped grudgingly "that doesn't mean we have to sit back and watch him destroy his chances at happiness."</div>
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"Who says he's not happy?" Jeff asked attempting to restrain his temper "just because it doesn't match up to your standards doesn't mean he's not happy."</div>
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"You misconstrue everything I say" she retorted crossing her arms "he's too much like you."</div>
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"What's that supposed to mean?" Jeff demanded. He could feel his hold on his anger slipping away. He longed for the days when he and Lisa had been in love. When they could hardly spend an hour away from each other and it still felt too long. Now they could barely be in the same room for an hour without snapping at each other.</div>
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She rolled her eyes "you always needed to be pushed to put yourself out there. To go for the promotion."</div>
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He snorted "all I wanted to be was a good cop. I was a good cop but that wasn't good enough for you. I wanted your approval so I let myself believe that I wanted the promotions too. But you want to know something Lisa? All I really wanted was to be a good father but I never got the chance."</div>
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"That's not my fault" she retorted "it's not my fault you couldn't balance your career with the needs of your family."</div>
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"No" their son's voice speaking behind them caused them both to jump "dad's always been a great father. I couldn't have asked for anyone better even if he was gone a lot." He looked at his mom as she opened her mouth to contradict him "don't forget I lived in the same house as you. I heard things. You never wanted him at home."</div>
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"I never....."</div>
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"Yes you did. You constantly nagged at him to put his job first," he pointed at her "you wanted him to be just like your dad. A hero. Well guess what? He is a hero. The down side of being a hero is never being home. Missing out on things." Turning to his dad he smiled "I've always known the sacrifices you made. Despite that you were always there for the important things. If I could be half the dad you are I'd be happy."</div>
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Snorting derisively Lisa crossed her arms "that's not how I remember it."</div>
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"No of course not mother" Tommy snapped "you wanted perfection. Unfortunately we're human. We make mistakes." He took a step forward addressing her "your my mom. I love you. You have to understand Velvet is my fiance. She's my life. I love her. She's going to be my wife. The mother of my children. You either accept her or you don't come here again. This is my life not yours. I want you to be a part of it. You don't have to like it but you do have to accept it." He turned to Jeff " you're always welcome dad."</div>
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"Thank you" Jeff pulled his son close "I'm sorry we ruined Velvet's meal."</div>
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"I'll tell her" he said opening the door and going back inside.</div>
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When the door closed Lisa said "I should go..."</div>
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"Don't be like this" Jeff pleaded "this is your family. Your grandchild. Don't cut them out just because they don't fit into your ideal."</div>
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Her eyes sizzled with anger "what kind of life will they have in this backwards little town?" She shook her head walking away.</div>
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Jeff watched her go wishing there was something he could say or do to stop her. There was too large of a gulf between them to bridge with a few words.</div>
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<br />DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-8169667298783106832017-04-17T14:11:00.000-05:002017-04-17T14:11:46.478-05:004.31 The Awakening<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heath emerged from the deep recesses of the closet. He handed the doll to Quinn who stood with her hand out waiting. He put a comforting hand on Everett's shoulder as the younger man stumbled forward reaching for his daughter's favorite doll. "Let it go" Heath advised giving Everett's shoulder a firm shake.</div>
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"It's Phoebe's favorite" he mumbled close to tears as he struggled briefly in his father in laws arms.</div>
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"It's either the doll or your daughter" Quinn announced not unkindly but nonetheless firm.</div>
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"This better work" Everette moaned as he watched helplessly as Quinn turned leaving the room.</div>
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"It will" Heath gripped the younger man firmly. "It has to" he added to himself. </div>
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They followed Quinn into the makeshift infirmary. Heath helped Everett to his chair beside Kimberly's bedside while he joined Don at Owen's side. All eyes were on Quinn as she mumbled </div>
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something in preparation of destroying the doll and it's link to the wandler.</div>
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Heath didn't know what happened. One moment the doll seemed to levitate above the floor then it was gone. He turned towards Owen expecting immediate results. Grabbing the boys hand he looked over at Don "nothing's happening. He's still asleep."</div>
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Everett staggered to his feet. He moved like a raging bull towards Quinn "it didn't work. You said it would and it didn't."</div>
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Adam grabbed the young man's arms before he reached Quinn "calm down. Give her a chance." He understood why the boy was upset. He'd be upset too. He was upset. Once he had the boy settled down a figure appeared before Quinn. Dark, exotic, beautiful. Her eyes darted around the room. You could feel the anger radiating from her "give it to me" the woman demanded.</div>
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Quinn calmly stared at the wandler "it's not yours."</div>
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"Give it to me" she repeated through gritted teeth "you're ruining everything."</div>
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"Good" Quinn said with a slight smile tugging at her lips.</div>
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The wandler screamed fingers seeking to wrap around Quinn's thin neck. Without thinking Adam launched himself towards the wandler in an attempt to protect Quinn.</div>
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"I don't need your help" Quinn barked at him throwing the wandler from her. Before the wandler could retaliate she vanished. "Huh" Quinn grunted in surprise "I didn't expect that" she muttered to herself. She didn't have time to consider what happened when a cry was heard. "Daddy I knew you'd be here" Quinn smiled watching as the young father hugged his daughter. She left as the others began to wake up. She had work to do before she could relax and enjoy the results of what she had accomplished.</div>
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Adam looked down when someone silently slipped their hand into his. A smile tugged at his lips as he gazed into his wife's bright green eyes.</div>
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"This is good" she said "our family will be whole again."</div>
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He could feel the tears that slid down his nose. He did nothing to hide them. He didn't care if it were undignified for a ruler to be seen crying. He was human, well technically he was a vampire with the lingering sentiments of a human. He wouldn't change who he was for anyone. It's what made him the ruler he was and the people of Moonlight Falls had their chance for someone else. They still chose him. He wrapped a lock of her once red/gold hair around his index finger "yes it is" he agreed satisfied with the immediate results of a job well done.</div>
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She nodded reaching to touch his hand "let's check on our son" she murmured leading the way to where Keenan lay talking to Lydia. Beverly liked the green skinned young woman even though she seemed to be a bit skittish towards accepting their invitation to be part of the family. </div>
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Keenan struggled to sit up upon seeing his parents approaching them "dad" he croaked.</div>
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"Easy son" Adam gently pushed him back towards the pillow "rest" Adam advised "tomorrow you can tell me all about what happened." He looked up catching Lydia watching him "you have nothing to fear from us" he assured her "you couldn't have stopped Keenan from following you. I know my son. He'd have followed you regardless. This way we knew what happened to him." He patted the girls shoulder "he loves you."</div>
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She blinked back tears "thank you" she mouthed taking Keenan's hand in hers.</div>
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"When this has all calmed down" Beverly smiled down at the young couple "you must come for dinner. I want to get to know the girl my son would risk his life for."</div>
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"I'd like that" Lydia murmured as Beverly and Adam went to the next bed to speak consolingly to the next person.</div>
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"They like you" Keenan observed squeezing her hand. His eyes closed for a moment. He fought the urge to sleep forcing his eyes open. "I don't want to sleep" he smiled up at her "I'm afraid I won't wake up again."</div>
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Lydia ran her fingers across his forehead removing his hair from his face. A sort of chuckle snort escaped from her. "I'll be right here when you wake up" she soothed blinking hard to keep from crying as she pushed him flat on the bed beneath him.</div>
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"They really do like you" Keenan repeated watching her retreat into herself. "You don't have to be afraid. They won't reject you. I promise they won't."</div>
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"How?" she cried biting her bottom lip hard enough to draw blood "they don't even know me."</div>
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"They're not like your family" he blurted immediately regretting his poor choice of words as soon as they were out. She looked so lost. So alone. So fragile. "They won't judge you. Not like you expect."</div>
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"How do you know?" she cried "my own brother cast me out. I can never go home. How do I know your dad won't do the same to me? Look at these spots" she pointed to her legs "I'm forever marked by darkness. It recognizes me. What if they want me to leave because of that connection?"</div>
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Keenan watched the tears roll down her cheeks as she picked at the sheets "they won't do that" his voice was low but firm. It caught her attention enough to glance up at him "I know they won't do that."</div>
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"How do you know?" she asked again feeling as if that question was on repeat in her brain.</div>
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"Simple" he smiled up at her "they haven't cast me out." He took her hand "Beverly isn't my mom yet she accepted me from the moment they knew I was coming. Dad despite how I came into existence loved me from the start. I owe half my genetics to an evil being that has done nothing but torment my family."</div>
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"They have stood beside you despite not understanding the power you have" she sniffed leaning closer to him "they still consider you family."</div>
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"Yes they do. They have never rejected me not even when all of Moonlight Falls did. I still have my family." Keenan raised her hand to his lips.</div>
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"You still have me" she smiled kissing his mouth "I won't leave you either."</div>
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"Good because I won't let you leave" Keenan smiled as his eyes closed "you're stuck with me forever."</div>
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She sat up blushing a little when she found Keenan's parents watching them. Adam simply nodded as if confirming something then put his arm around his wife.</div>
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Tommy smiled up at Velvet "you're pregnant." It was a statement not a question.</div>
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"How did you?" her voice faded as she looked away "that creature told you didn't she?"</div>
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"She thought it would cause me pain" Tommy agreed lifting a trembling hand up to caress her cheek. He frowned when she flinched from his touch. He let his hand fall back to his side too weak to do anything else "what's wrong?" he asked "don't you want a baby with me?"</div>
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"No" she cried "it isn't that." She shook her head blinking back tears "I....I didn't know I was pregnant until the wandler touched him."</div>
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Shivers ran up and down his spine "did she hurt you? Him?"</div>
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Velvet glanced down when Tommy's hand covered hers. His gentle unassuming touch broke her resolve. A sob escaped like a clap of thunder. Deep wracking sobs followed as she recalled the minutes she lay in a pool of her own blood knowing the life she carried had been ruthlessly extinguished. Through her tears she gazed into Tommy's eyes. She could see his pain, his love, his fear and concern for her.</div>
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Tommy wished he wasn't so weak as he struggled to sit up and pull Velvet into his arms. He could feel the eyes of everyone in the room upon them despite their attempts to give them as much privacy as they could. What happened to her? He had never seen her so vulnerable before. He knew without needing her to reply that it had been bad. Maybe even life threatening. He wanted to wrap his fingers around that creatures neck if that monster had hurt her. "Shh" he soothed "you don't have to tell me. I know whatever it was was bad." He felt her arms slip around him clinging to him "I'm here now and together we'll face whatever comes next."</div>
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She breathed deeply leaning on him needing his strength. This wasn't a matter of who was human and who wasn't. She needed him to hold her to tell her he loved her. She needed him even though she hadn't told him. Would he feel the same way when she told him about Quinn? What would he do when Quinn came to collect on her promise? She gulped in another deep breath. She couldn't tell. Not now. Not when he had just gotten back. "Hold me" she begged "tell me you love me."</div>
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His arms tightened around her despite how weak he felt "I love you" he murmured.</div>
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"Daddy" Owen smiled happily up at Heath "you made it out."</div>
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"I did" he confirmed with a nod.</div>
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"Then you" Owen's eyes slid over towards Phoebe being cradled in her parents arms.</div>
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"I'm sorry" Heath knew what Owen was thinking. He was proud of his son. He was a sensitive soul even when his rambunctious nature led him from one misadventure to the next.</div>
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Owen sniffed wiping at his eyes "it's ok. Phoebe knew it was a possibility. I just wish" he sighed "I wish there was another way."</div>
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"As do I" Heath told him pulling his young son close glad that for now his son still wanted cuddles from his parents.</div>
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"It wasn't a dreamscape was it?" Owen asked his blue eyes serious "that was a real place. A bad place."</div>
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Heath debated within himself to either lie or tell his son the truth. He saw the same struggle in his husbands eyes "yes son that was a real place."</div>
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Nodding he leaned into Heath "I thought so." His eyes closed for a moment. He was so tired yet he didn't want to sleep "daddy will I go there again? Will I go there each time I fall asleep?"</div>
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Heath peered into his son's scared eyes. He could see the fear deep inside. He wanted assure him that he had nothing to worry about. Was the danger over? Was there something worse out there that they hadn't encountered yet? He just didn't know.</div>
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Don sensing the inner turmoil of his husband kissed his son's cheek "you don't have to worry about that now. When you close your eyes you'll be in fields of green grass playing with all your friends. You'll have lots of fun. You have nothing to fear because daddy and I will be right here. Watching over you." He looked up finding Heath staring at him with a look of gratitude on his handsome face.</div>
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"I love you" he murmured before looking down at their son who was losing the battle to stay awake </div>
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"I think he's sleeping."</div>
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"It's probably the first peaceful sleep he's had in a long time" Don said pulling the covers up "you should do the same. I know with the pressures of running Midnight Hollow and worrying about the kids you haven't slept properly in months."</div>
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Smiling weakly Heath yawned leaning into Don "you're right but I can't leave him yet. What if he wakes up and needs me?"</div>
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Kissing his forehead Don smiled gently "rest your head on my shoulder. I'll wake you if he needs you."</div>
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"Are you sure?" Heath asked moving to do as Don suggested.</div>
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"Positive" Don said lightly running his fingers through Heath's hair the way he knew Heath liked it.</div>
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"Daddy" Phoebe cried bolting from the bed. Crawling into her dad's lap while he smoothed Kimberly's long hair "it worked didn't it?"</div>
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"What worked?" he asked giving his daughter a quick kiss on the cheek.</div>
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"It was dollie who saved us" she said "Grandpa asked where she was. Now she's gone and we're home."</div>
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Kimberly reached up to stroke her daughters long hair "I'm sorry sweetie."</div>
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"For what mommy?" she asked her eyes large and innocent.</div>
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"For what happened to dollie" Kimberly asked "I know how much you loved her."</div>
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"No mommy dollie's happy now" Phoebe smiled "she went to live with the unicorns and other good dollies. She didn't want to do all those bad things the wandler made her do."</div>
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"I'm sure she didn't" Everett assured her "are you ok with not seeing dollie?"</div>
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Nodding "she's better now" Phoebe murmured leaning into him. Her eyes closed then fluttered open </div>
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"I don't want to sleep," she complained even though her eyes were closing again.</div>
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"It's ok now baby girl" Kimberly soothed "the darkness is gone and it can't hurt you anymore."</div>
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"It didn't hurt me" she contradicted "just the ones who tried to help me. Mommy" she cried taking her mom's hand clinging to it as if she were afraid she'd leave "I'm sorry."</div>
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"Oh sweetie you have nothing to be sorry for" Kimberly struggled to sit up "it's what mommy's do for their baby's when they're in trouble. We help them no matter what."</div>
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"I love you" Phoebe closed her eyes slipping into a deep restful sleep.</div>
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"Is it really over?" Everett asked keeping his voice low so as to not disturb their daughter.</div>
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Nodding Kimberly rested her head on her hand "yes it is. The object the wandler was attached to is gone. Without that link the darkness can't get to us. It's trapped inside its realm."</div>
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"I'm sorry" Everett murmured carefully transferring Phoebe's sleeping form to the bed beside her mother.</div>
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Reaching up Kimberly lovingly stroked his chin "it's not your fault I got trapped in there."</div>
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His eyes darted away "yes it is. If I hadn't asked you to connect with her. None of this would have happened."</div>
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"Don't blame yourself I had a choice" she pushed gently on the back of his head forcing his face down to hers. Tenderly she kissed his lips. Felt his hesitation as their lips touched "I love you" she murmured softly. "You don't need to feel guilty over what happened. You couldn't have known what would happen. You were here trying to reach me. I could have turned back. I chose to stay. I chose to stay with Phoebe."</div>
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He blinked. His eyes filled with confusion and hurt "why?" he demanded.</div>
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"She needed me. She needed my strength to keep running from the darkness. Once I was in there I could feel how weak she was becoming. I couldn't let that thing have our baby."</div>
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He took a deep breath, heart pounding loudly inside his ears. She knew. She could have come back to him and didn't. He tried to convince himself that it was for the best. Phoebe needed her. In time, he hoped, that's how he would see it. At this moment all he could see was the pain she had put him through holding her lifeless body, thinking she was dead. The weeks of watching her lying there unresponsive to him and everything else. He gulped in air attempting to repress the feelings of hurt and pain he had. Now wasn't the time to fall apart. He had to be strong. Had to keep it together. Had to pretend it didn't matter. Pretend he understood why and hope that given time he would.</div>
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Quinn entered the visitors hall tapping her feet as time ticked by. Eventually the door opened and Erix walked in. Eyes puffy like he hadn't slept in days. "It was you" Quinn accused as he approached "who enlisted the help of the wandler."</div>
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"It was me" he agreed "but it was my wife who gave the wandler it's orders. I rescinded my contract but the control isn't mine." He gave Quinn a wary look "I recalled the Wandler but it didn't come to me."</div>
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"Yes I know" Quinn gave him an icy glare "once we destroyed her link to the child the wandler vanished. I presumed it came here."</div>
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"Here?" Erix shook his head "why would it come here?"</div>
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"You commissioned it" Quinn's eyes narrowed "where is it? It's futile to try and hide it from me."</div>
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"I'm not. I have grown sick of what it was doing to the child. I had no stomach for it. I admit to seeking it's help but it was my wife who commissioned it without my approval."</div>
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"Good thing I did as it turned out" his wife's voice spoke behind them "the wandler is in my employ. It answers to me. I want my own children." She gave her husband a spiteful glare "I don't care what it takes."</div>
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"What have you done?" Erix demanded taking a step nearer.</div>
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Ignoring him except for the occasional hateful sneer she addressed herself to Quinn. "I'll give you the wandler once you fix what you've done to us. Give us the ability to have children again."</div>
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"Why would I do that?" she scoffed "so you can teach it to hate as you hate?"</div>
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"I wouldn't do that" she protested.</div>
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"All you have to offer is hate" Erix interrupted.</div>
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"I'm afraid I have to agree with your husband" Quinn said turning to leave.</div>
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"You'll regret this" the woman threatened.</div>
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Turning to face her Quinn said "my patience is wearing thin."</div>
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"As does mine" she retorted "I had the wandler touch the child."</div>
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Erix gasped "how could you?"</div>
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"If I can't have a child neither can the dimension watcher's little pet."</div>
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"You're a despicable vile woman" Erix spat at his once adored wife.</div>
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"Spare me your insults" she raised her hand to cut him off "I'll have what I want or she'll watch her precious pets suffer. First infertility for the girl. Then sterility for all the next generation. Then I'll have accidents befall the rest until the entire family is wiped out."</div>
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Quinn swallowed her ready retort. Repressed her anger. She wouldn't let this woman's threats effect her. "You will not win" she said turning her back to the woman and vanished. She would find a solution before her dimension fell apart. It was too closely linked to Audric's and Phoenix's. If her's went down so would the others. She had no choice but to win</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-15199436840159208482017-04-16T20:20:00.001-05:002017-04-16T20:21:41.563-05:004.30 The Search<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Quinn walked into the house marveling at the lax security. No matter security would just have slowed her down. She had no time to waste. She followed the hushed voices up the stairs where the family was huddled around multiple bodies in a comatose condition. She could see the worry in each line on the poor family huddled around them.</div>
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She clapped her hands loudly in the confines of the makeshift hospital ward. Several heads jerked upwards "what are you doing in here?" a gruff voice demanded.</div>
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Eyeing the wary werewolf Quinn laughed "the door was open." She shrugged "I was able to walk right in" raising an eyebrow she glared at him "your security is atrocious." She turned her back on the irate man.</div>
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Ignoring the deep grumbling growl she approached Adam "I've come to offer my assistance."</div>
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He gave her a cold calculating stare. One that he had mastered during the years of ruling over Moonlight Falls. He recognized the woman who had saved him and Keenan from Silver. That alone made her a reliable source of help. "What can you do that the doctors haven't done already?"</div>
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"Oh I'm no doctor" she shook her head "medicine can't help. You need to destroy the object the wandler is attached too."</div>
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Adam's eyes narrowed "wandler? Is that what's causing this?" Anger made his even tones vibrate.</div>
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"Yes" Quinn nodded towards the bumble "she recognized it's presence before I did. It's an ancient dark fae. It's mistress to the darkness. The more people who fall victim to this enchanted sleep the stronger the darkness becomes."</div>
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Turning to the young woman Adam's eyes softened "is what she saying true?" He needed verification before he blindly followed anyone no matter his instinctual trust.</div>
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"Yes my Lord" the girl stood from her seated position beside Tommy's silent inert body "my father came to warn me. To beg for my help. My mother had fallen into an enchanted sleep in an attempt to help a little girl being tormented by a wandler." She gave Quinn a sideways glance "I was told to look for an object the child loved. Destroy it. It's the only way to break the hold the wandler has on the child."</div>
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"Do you believe me now?" Quinn challenged.</div>
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Adam inclined his head in a barely perceptible nod. He could not give the appearance of weakness especially not by this woman who had humiliated his senior guard. "What do you propose we do?"</div>
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"We need the object the wandler is attached to" Quinn repeated "I don't suppose any of you know what that might be?" Her eyes swept over the room halting on Everett. She felt a prickling of sympathy for the young father. Shaking her head she sternly told herself now was not the time to get caught up in feelings.</div>
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Laying Kimberly's hand gently on top of her stomach Everett stood. Swaying slightly once he gained his feet he said "Phoebe had a doll she loved. She never went to bed without it until recently." He leaned heavily on the back of the chair "I...haven't seen it in quite a while."</div>
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Beverly quickly moved to help the young man who appeared about to fall over. With her help she convinced the distraught young man to lie down before he fell over.</div>
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Relieved for the moment Adam turned his attention to Quinn. "If we find this doll what do we do with it? Can we destroy it?"</div>
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"I doubt if you can destroy it on your own" she mused a moment her brows knitting together "the wandler's power may have grown to strong."</div>
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"Then what?" he demanded.</div>
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"You find it" Quinn said firmly "I'll destroy it."</div>
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Adam nodded despite his vague uneasiness over accepting her help. "How do we find it?" he asked addressing everyone in the room.</div>
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"The easiest way would be to ask the girl" Lydia said looking towards Velvet who nodded in agreement.</div>
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"We would except" Peter heaved a loud sigh "we haven't been able to wake her."</div>
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Heath let out a loud moan as if he were in pain Don quickly put an arm around him "it's going to be alright?"</div>
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"No it's not" Heath shook his head. Turning he faced the strange woman "can you put me inside with them?"</div>
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Don made an audible gasp "Heath they're asleep. They're not anywhere."</div>
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"No you're wrong" Lydia protested "it's like a totally new world. It's where the darkness dwells."</div>
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Heath swallowed "you know I have to do this" he said looking Don straight in the eyes "I've already been slipping further and further into that realm each time I fall asleep. If it weren't for the stimulants the doctor has been giving me I might have already slipped into an enchanted sleep."</div>
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"I don't like it" Don mumbled knowing he wouldn't be able to talk Heath out of it.</div>
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"Is there a way I can go in. Contact Phoebe. Then come out?" Heath asked.</div>
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Quinn smiled towards him. She liked the timid man. Hidden deep within him was an iron will. Something that hadn't been tapped into often. "I think we can arrange something. A code word to let someone out here know when your ready to come out."</div>
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Tommy stirred on the hard dirty floor. Every movement sent excruciating pain throughout his body. </div>
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Breathing was like a hundred tiny knife pricks. He shivered anticipating the hideous laughter that had haunted his dreams.</div>
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"Take it easy" Keenan advised as his companion started to moan.</div>
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"Kee-nan" Tommy mumbled finding his mouth had a difficult time forming the name "what hap-pen-ed?"</div>
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"I'm not..." Keenan paused "sure. The last thing I remember was following Lydia into her dreamscape. Then waking up here."</div>
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"Have you seen it?" Tommy asked shivering.</div>
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"Seen what?" Keenan asked confused.</div>
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"The wandler" Tommy said struggling to sit up.</div>
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Keenan gave him a hand up "you should rest."</div>
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"We need to find a way out" he contradicted.</div>
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Shrugging Keenan let his friend stumble around the cage they were locked in. There was no way out. He'd had hours to inspect his prison while Tommy lay unconscious on the floor.</div>
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"It's useless" Tommy moaned despair evident in his voice "there's no way we're getting out without help."</div>
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Keenan refrained from saying I told you so. If he were in Tommy's shoes he'd have to investigate his cage too for escape routes. "Sit down before you fall down" he patted the ground beside him raising a small dust cloud. Keenan watched as Tommy lowered himself gingerly to the floor placing his head between his knees. "What's wrong?" he asked.</div>
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"Besides having my life sucked from my body?" Tommy asked without lifting his head "what else could be wrong?"</div>
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Keenan gave him an appraising look "Tommy we've been friends for a while. I know when somethings bothering you."</div>
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Tommy lifted pain filled eyes towards Keenan "yeah you're my best friend. Always giving me shit."</div>
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"That's right" Keenan nodded closing his eyes. He knew if he appeared to be too interested in his friends problems Tommy would shut him out. He knew it was a hold over from his overbearing mother who demanded to know everything in her children's lives. He'd overheard more than one phone call with Tommy all but throwing his phone against the wall.</div>
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Running his hands over his face and into his hair he groaned "its Velvet."</div>
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"What about her?" Keenan asked trying to keep a neutral tone. What if they broke up? That would put a strain on his relationship with Lydia. She and Velvet were good friends besides being roommates. </div>
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"She she betrayed me" Tommy mumbled.</div>
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"She wouldn't do that" Keenan exclaimed "you know she wouldn't."</div>
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"I...I heard her" Tommy moaned leaning his head back "she begged me to forgive her."</div>
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<div>
<div>
"There has to be another reason" Keenan insisted "Velvet wouldn't do that. She loves you," Keenan insisted.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"That's what I wanted to believe too" Tommy's voice was low deflated.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The sound of someone clapping behind them had both boys struggling to their feet. Keenan reached over to steady Tommy who tried to push his hands away. "I so enjoy new toys" she clapped enthusiastically "I didn't expect such a gift from my Lord" she licked her lips while looking Keenan over from head to toe.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'm nobody's toy" Keenan growled reaching through the bars towards the woman.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Pity I'll have to drain you of all that fight" she pursed her lips moving closer careful to stay out of reach of his hands "such delicious power."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keenan grunted as his body stiffened as he fell to the floor in convulsions. Dimly he was aware of someone screaming for her to stop. Then nothing. Nothing but darkness.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
<div>
Kimberly tugged on the fae's hand "we have to go."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Go where?" the older woman asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"They're in pain" she cried "my Uncle and his friend have been captured by the wandler."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The fae nodded her small wings fluttered in agitation "alright we'll go but that means we'll leave the little ones vulnerable."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I know" Kimberly took a deep breath "Phoebe is stronger than she appears for her age. Owen will protect her."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He's just a boy" the bumble pointed out.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It can't be helped" Kimberly said turning away "my Uncle is in trouble. I have to trust Phoebe can fend for herself for a little while on her own."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Saffron nodded her lips thin with disapproval. When the girl moved off she followed trusting the woman knew her daughter well enough. Stopping outside a building deep within the darkness "this is the wandler's lair."</div>
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<div>
<div>
"This is where I sense my Uncle" Kimberly acknowledged.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The bumble stepped aside. She knew by now to trust the girls ability to connect with her family.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Stop" Kimberly demanded upon sight of her Uncle writhing in pain on the floor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Make me" the wandler challenged turning from her prey.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"She can't but I can" Saffron said confident in her ability to draw the dark fae's attention to herself and away from the boys.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're pathetic" the wandler sneered.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Perhaps" the bumble shrugged blowing pixie dust into the wandler's face.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"My eyes" the creature cried swiping frantically at her eyes.</div>
</div>
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<div>
<div>
"Now who is the pathetic one?" Saffron asked stepping around the huddled creature.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You'll pay for this" the woman scowled eyes red, swollen and watering "I met your daughter."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The older fae stepped forward "leave her alone..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Pointing towards Tommy who was leaning heavily against Kimberly for support "that weakling is her mate."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The bumbles eyes widened "Velvet always did have exotic taste. It's one of the reasons she left her clan."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tommy lifted his head staring at her. That was Velvet's mother. She sounded so proud of her daughter. "She thought you were disappointed in her when she left."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Momentarily distracted Saffron locked eyes with Tommy "I always knew my daughter wasn't cut out for life in our small clan. Much too adventurous and curious of the world around her."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"How sweet" the wandler sneered "the doting boyfriend and proud mama."</div>
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<div>
Keenan put a hand out to restrain his friend "you can't talk about her like that."</div>
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<div>
"Can't I?" she asked wide eyed "she's the one who betrayed you. Not me."</div>
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<div>
"She didn't" Tommy shook off Keenan's hands almost falling to the floor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're here aren't you?" the wandler smirked "she chose to save herself. Not you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"There's no way my daughter would do that," Saffron said "unless..." she turned frightened sad eyes to Tommy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Unless what?" he asked heart beating fast.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"She's pregnant" Saffron said "that's the only reason she'd chose herself. She knew the baby wouldn't survive here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Oh god" Tommy fell into Keenan's waiting arms sobbing.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div>
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<div>
"The ground is getting awfully close" Phoebe cried looking towards Owen as if she expected him to do something.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I know" he closed his eyes hoping against hope that wings would magically appear.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It didn't work" Phoebe informed him "we're going to die aren't we?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Maybe that's the only way to wake up" Owen suggested.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I heard if you die in your dreams you die in real life" Phoebe said staring at the rushing ground.</div>
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<div>
"You're not going to die" a deep voice assured her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Grandpa" the girl cried.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What are you doing here" Owen demanded "it's not safe here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Don't worry about that" Heath assured his son "just open your arms and I'll catch you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You promise" Owen asked needing the assurance.</div>
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<div>
"I promise" Heath held his arms out towards the quickly descending children.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Once the kids were safely on the ground Heath hugged them both tight "I don't have much time." He kicked at the approaching tentacle "Phoebe honey what toy did the wandler take?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"She took my dollie" she pouted "I loved her so much."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We're trying to find her" Heath told her as a tentacle wrapped around his ankle.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I hid her" Phoebe grabbed his hand "don't go into the darkness."</div>
</div>
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<div>
<div>
Owen stepped forward grabbing his other hand "think of rainbows and unicorns."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heath was about to ask why when a burst of color spread around them causing the darkness to retreat. "You're very smart to have figured out the weakness of your enemy"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We're not strong enough to maintain it for long" Owen said "we're too little."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nodding Heath wished he could bring them back with him. He was powerless here "sweetie tell me where dollie is."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No" she shook her head.</div>
</div>
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<div>
"Dollie isn't happy being controlled by the wandler" Heath searched for the right words to get the girl to open up to him "she wants to be free of the wandler's influence."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You'll help her?" she asked "she'll be happy?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yes honey she'll be happy without the wandler making her do bad things," he held his breath hoping his granddaughter would tell him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Moving close to Heath she whispered in his ear. Pulling back she kissed his cheek "tell her I'm sorry I couldn't protect her."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I will sweetheart" he sent the recall message "I love you both so much. With dollie's help you'll be home soon."</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div>
<div>
Adam ignored the hostile glare his chief security guard was giving him. The man's disapproval was permanently etched in the lines on the man's face. He closed his eyes blocking everything and everyone out. He needed to keep his senses up in case Heath gave him the code.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
His eyes flew open breathing rapidly "he's trying to come back. He's fighting. The darkness is too strong."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Quinn moved close to him. She could sense the struggle Heath was having to ward off the darkness. Turning to Adam she demanded "concentrate on Heath's voice. Guide him back through the darkness. Be his light."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You should not have put the esteemed one in this vulnerable position" the security guard chose that moment to resume his argument.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shrugging Quinn turned her back on him. What did he expect Adam to do? Sit back while his family slipped further into the darkness. Taking Adam's hand she squeezed it tight. She matched her breathing to his concentrating on transferring her power to him to bring Heath home.</div>
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A loud moan filled the room as Heath opened his eyes. Don moved quickly to take his husband's hand "Heath babe it's ok. You're safe."</div>
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Eyes focused on his husband Heath smiled in relief "I almost didn't make it. The darkness has gotten so strong."</div>
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"It's alright babe" Don assured him blinking back tears "I love you."</div>
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"I love you to" Heath stirred to sit up.</div>
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"Did she tell you?" Everett asked anxiously.</div>
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Nodding Heath got up leaning heavily upon Don's shoulder "I know where it is."</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-80364124464018855652017-04-15T22:23:00.001-05:002017-04-15T22:23:54.420-05:004.29 Facing the Darkness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The room grew dark while Keenan held Lydia's shuddering body against him. He didn't want to disturb her by moving. Several minutes later Lydia sighed leaning into him "thank you" she murmured. </div>
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"That's what I'm here for" he said holding her tight.</div>
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Sitting up she tucked her long hair behind her ears. "We need to contact the darkness," her voice wavered but he could see her determination in her eyes.</div>
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"No" he said firmly "if anyone connects the the darkness it'll be me."</div>
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"No it has to be me" she protested "I know what it's thinking. I...." she bit her lip remembering the terrified little girl she was. The nightmares that would wake her up screaming in the middle of the night. The taunts from her brother as she tried to explain what was happening to her. The marks on her skin she couldn't hide "it has to be me" she mumbled again. Inspecting her hands afraid to meet Keenan's gaze afraid to see the same hatred in his eyes as she saw in her brother's eyes.</div>
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Lifting her chin Keenan pressed his lips to hers "don't be afraid." Gently he cupped her face between his hands "why would I ever fear you? What happened to you was out of your control."</div>
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She tried to turn away a wordless protest stuck in her throat "I'm sorry" she murmured.</div>
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"There's no need to be" he said tenderly caressing her cheek "you stuck by me when everyone I knew was afraid to touch me. You were my friend when I needed you the most."</div>
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Touching his hands with hers she held them still. Gazing into his eyes she smiled softly "you're too gentle to be so feared. I can see it in your eyes. The bafflement. The hurt. The pain. You don't show it but I can see it. You're hurt that the people you were going to lead turned against you."</div>
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It was his turn to look away. His cheeks a rosy red. Her words struck a cord within him. Something he had buried deep within him. The betrayal of the people who had wanted him to rule over them. Rejected over something he neither wanted nor controlled. He was the same person he ever was yet they feared him. Walked across the street to avoid him. They'd spit in his face if they weren't so scared of him. "Yes it hurts" he sighed "I don't want it too but it does." He felt her finger tips gently wipe away a tear he hadn't known had fallen. "I hate what they expect my dad to do when my mom passes away. It's not right."</div>
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Lydia pulled him close. Holding him she could feel how vulnerable he was. So young and inexperienced. The way she felt when her brother had banished her. "Together we'll get through this" she murmured to him "we're stronger than we know."</div>
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He pulled away from her embrace nodding at her words "we need to face the darkness."</div>
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She nodded entwining her fingers with his "together we can defeat it."</div>
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"How do we go about seeking the darkness" he asked squeezing her hand.</div>
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"Just close your eyes" she instructed "the darkness will come to us."</div>
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He did as instructed. Closing his eyes he could feel her reassuring presence as Lydia held his hands. Her even breaths in sync with his. A jarring voice interrupted his thoughts. "Ly-di-a" the voice sing songed "it's so nice to see you again."</div>
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A strong tug on Keenan's free hand pulled the couple apart. "What's this? A present for me?" the voice sounded childlike in it's delight over finding Keenan.</div>
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"He's not for you" she shouted into the tangled mists and tentacles</div>
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"I think he is" the voice contradicted "you brought him in here with you. This place where I live. You know the power I have."</div>
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"No" Lydia screamed "I was a child then. I was lost and alone. He's not for you."</div>
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Laughter filled the mists swirling around them "then why did you bring him?"</div>
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"I came to get my niece" Keenan shouted "I'm warning you..."</div>
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"Warning me" the voice gasped in outrage "you come into my home and dare threaten me."</div>
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"It's not a threat. It's a promise..." Keenan gasped as he tentacles tightened around him squeezing the air from his lungs.</div>
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"Please" Lydia screamed "don't hurt him."</div>
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"What will you give me?" the voice demanded relaxing it's grip on the boy.</div>
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Licking her lips Lydia took a step forward "I'll stay here with you...."</div>
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"No" Keenan shouted struggling in the loosening grip of the tentacles "Lydia we're stronger together. Don't do this. Please" he screamed as the mists obscured his vision. Laughter filled his ears making his ear drums burst from the sheer volume. Blood trickled from his eyes and nose as he lost consciousness.</div>
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Lydia stirred beside Keenan. His arm fell limp to his side as his body slumped to the side. "Keenan" she cried patting his face "wake up. Please wake up."</div>
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Velvet looked deep into the dark bottomless pits the wandler used for eyes. Fear crouched at the edges of her awareness. Fear that Tommy would follow her inside the closet when he was finished with the toy box. Fear that he would attempt to confront the dark fae. Fear that he would get hurt. Fear she'd be unable to protect him.</div>
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"Tsk tsk tsk" the wandler gripped the girls chin holding her face in place "so much delicious fear for that weak human." </div>
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Velvet's small wings fluttered helplessly in the dark. She tried to jerk her face free "leave him alone" she demanded. To her consternation the dark fae laughed. Filling the tight confines with her delight. Velvet's eyes went towards the closet door hoping Tommy hadn't heard. Wouldn't come to investigate the sound. Wouldn't try to rescue her.</div>
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The door opened a crack. A shaft of light pierced the darkness within. "Velvet" his voice called "are you alright?"</div>
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"No please no" she cried half pleading.</div>
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"Such concern for a mere human" the wandler smiled placing her hand on the girls stomach "what about this one? Aren't you concerned what I might do to it?"</div>
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Velvet turned confused eyes towards the evil visage of the Wandler "I don't...what are you...OMG." Velvet's heart plummeted. The queasy feeling. The bouts of sickness she thought were stomach flu. How long had it been? Her mind raced. When had been her last cycle? Last month? The month before? With everything that had been going on she'd lost track.</div>
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"You didn't know" the wandler licked her lips like a predator ready to pounce "this must be my lucky day. I do so love the young."</div>
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Struggling in the wandlers grasp Velvet tried to break free sensing her baby's distress. "Don't please you're hurting me."</div>
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"Him" the wandler corrected "I'm hurting him."</div>
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Pain knifed through her abdomen causing Velvet to double over panting "please he's too small. Too fragile."</div>
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Leaning over the stricken young woman the wandler whispered in her ear "choose. The baby or the human."</div>
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"No" Velvet refused shaking her head. She couldn't make that decision.</div>
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"Decide before the human comes in here" the wandler hissed "if you don't I'll take both."</div>
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Velvet looked towards the door the shaft of light was growing larger. How could she choose which would die? Who would live? The door opened. A figure stood in the light. "Tommy please forgive me" she begged before she passed out in a pool of blood.</div>
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Tommy wrapped his hands around the bars of his cell "let me out" he yelled yanking on the bars as if he thought he could break them.</div>
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Laughter filled the empty caverns, echoing through the empty cells around him. A dark, beautiful creature approached him eyes dancing with merriment.</div>
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"Help me please" Tommy pleaded "I need to get out of here. Velvet needs help. I need to find her."</div>
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"You humans are so stupid" the wandler shook her head as her new play thing took several steps backwards. Sniffing the air "you smell delicious. I think I'll take my time with you."</div>
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Sweat poured from him. His hair matted to his forehead while his clothes felt hot and sticky against his skin. "What do you want from me?" he demanded backing into the far wall.</div>
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"Your fear" she inhaled deeply as if she were enjoying the satisfying aroma of a fine meal.</div>
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Tommy could feel his body being drained of energy as he fell to his knees. Shivering he fought to lift his head "what are you doing to me?"</div>
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"Feeding" came the wandler's chilling reply.</div>
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Weakness invaded his body forcing him to the floor "what did you do to Velvet?" he mumbled forcing the words from his mouth.</div>
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Opening the cell door she walked over to his inert body. Kneeling beside him she ran her fingers through his hair "oh I wouldn't worry about her if I were you. She certainly didn't when she chose herself over you." She leaned in close whispering in his ear "I gave her the choice. Her life or yours." Standing she walked to the open cell door "she chose to save herself."</div>
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The slamming of the cell door caused Tommy to jerk in pain. Velvet wouldn't do that. Wouldn't betray him like that. He was positive of that. There had to be another reason. If there was, why had she asked him to forgive her? Fatigue and exhaustion overwhelmed him. His eyes grew weary and closed like iron sheets. It had to be a lie. Velvet wouldn't do this to him. Tears trickled down his cheeks as he drifted into an unsettled slumber.</div>
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Breathing hard Owen and Phoebe huddled in a corner of a large room several stories up. "Do you think we're safe in here?" Phoebe asked leaning on her Uncles shoulders.</div>
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"I hope so" Owen said putting an arm around her. At the look of fear in her eyes he added "I'm sure we're safe in here. The mist is outside. It can't get in here." He wasn't so sure about that as he watched a tentacle squeeze beneath the door. "Maybe you should try another rainbow" he suggested.</div>
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"I'm awfully tired" Phoebe whined. "Can't you try?" she pleaded.</div>
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"This isn't my dreamworld" he pointed out.</div>
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"Why not?" she asked "you're here. Doesn't that make it your dreamworld too?"</div>
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Owen blinked at her. He hadn't thought of it like that before. If this was his dreamworld then he must be asleep right now. Probably fell asleep on the ride to Moonlight Falls. He scrunched up his face thinking hard, imagining bright happy thoughts.</div>
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"You almost did it" Phoebe clapped her hands together "you made a few sparkles."</div>
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"That's not going to help us" he said standing up dragging Phoebe with him "look" he pointed towards the door.</div>
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"It's getting inside" she cried moving closer to him "it's never done that before."</div>
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His eyes went wide and round watching the encroaching mist. Owen took Phoebe's hand leading her towards the farthest corner of the room "it's getting stronger."</div>
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"What should we do?" Phoebe asked clinging to her Uncle.</div>
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"We need to wake up" Owen said eyes never leaving the menace coming towards them.</div>
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"I've tried" Phoebe cried "I can't."</div>
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Closing his eyes for a moment Owen let himself relax. He could hear his parents voices pleading with him to wake. They were so far away and the darkness was coming. "I can't" he cried taking Phoebe's hand "we've got to run."</div>
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"Run where?" Phoebe cried eyes darting around the room.</div>
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"There" he pointed towards the only available escape route.</div>
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"You're crazy" she shook her head dragging her feet as Owen pulled her towards the window.</div>
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"It's a dream right?" Owen said looking at her.</div>
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"Yeah" she said uncertainly.</div>
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"Then we won't get hurt" he looked behind them towards the darkness as it almost filled the room behind them. "We don't have a choice or anything to lose. If we stay here the darkness has us."</div>
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Biting her lips she allowed him to help her up onto the window's ledge "what do you think will happen?"</div>
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Shrugging he gave her a lopsided grin "I don't know. Maybe we'll sprout wings and fly."</div>
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Looking down she nodded "I hope so."</div>
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Worry nagged at the back of Everett's mind watching the doctor attempting to awaken the small boy not much older then his daughter. He backed from the room feeling in the way and helpless. He walked down the stairs towards his daughters room. Would he be able to awaken her? Would she be in a coma like Owen and Kimberly?</div>
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Opening the door he found Phoebe thrashing about in her sleep. He reached a hand out to comfort her when he spotted the open closet door. He was positive it was closed when he had put her to bed. Had Phoebe gotten up and opened it? He doubted it. The closet was one of the many places she refused to enter, claiming the darkness lived there.</div>
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Cautiously he approached the closet turning the light on as he entered. Gasping in horror he dropped to his knees beside the huddled figure on the floor. </div>
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Velvet's eyes fluttered open "I...thought I....could help" she panted in obvious pain.</div>
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In the semi dark confines of the closet Everett's hand slipped in a warm sticky substance covering the floor. Blood. "Are you hurt?" he asked.</div>
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"I think" her voice came out strangled "the baby...I lost the baby..."</div>
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"I'll get you to a doctor" he told her as he picked her up.</div>
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Emerging from the closet he could see the girl was pasty white. "Don't worry you'll be good as new in time," he tried to sound confident despite his growing doubts.</div>
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Her head lolled from side to side as she fought to stay conscious. "You need .... you need" she licked her lips "you need to destroy the object."</div>
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"Object?" Everett asked knowing it was pointless as he watched the girls eyes roll back in her head. What did she mean? What object? He resisted the urge to shake her. He kicked open the door where the doctor was packing up his things "she needs help" he cried as several individuals turned to look at him.</div>
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"What's wrong with her?" the doctor demanded his voice almost angry from the stress and frustration.</div>
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"I think she had a miscarriage" Everett said his voice sorrowful "I found her in a pool of blood."</div>
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"Put her here" the doctor waved towards an empty bed.</div>
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"Isn't there anything we can do for her?" Everett asked. He felt bad for the young woman. Why had she been in her daughter's closet was beside the point. She was going to need all the help she could get to cope with all of this.</div>
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"I'll call for an ambulance," the doctor said wearily rubbing the bridge of his nose "there's not much else that can be done."</div>
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Several hours later Velvet lay alone in the dark hospital room listening to the monotonous beeping of the monitors. A single tear trickled down her nose. She lost both. The baby and her boyfriend. The monitor registered her distress as a distant alarm was going off. Soon a nurse would appear with a syringe in hand promising her serenity. Sleep. She was afraid to sleep. Would she slip into a coma? Would she come face to face with the would be murderer of her baby? She put a hand protectively over her stomach. It had been so close. If Everett hadn't found her she would have lost the baby. At least that was going to be the official story.</div>
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She ignored the nurse who entered the room. She felt the sting as the nurse jabbed the needle into her arm. Another tear fell causing the nurse to briefly pat her shoulder before leaving the room.</div>
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Velvet's mind conjured up the moments in the closet when a woman appeared. At first she had thought the wandler had returned. She had tried to demand she return Tommy but the woman only shook her head at her. Her green eyes filled with compassion "I can save the baby if you agree to my terms."</div>
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At first her heart leapt with joy before plummeting in despair "what terms?" she croaked.</div>
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"When he is of age he must help me."</div>
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"Help" she mumbled "help with what?"</div>
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The woman stroked her hair "don't worry about the details. Your son will live in exchange for his help. He'll be instrumental in saving this dimension. All I need is your agreement."</div>
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It sounded good Velvet thought. Hours later she wondered what help this powerful creature would need from her unborn son.</div>
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She had agreed. Of course she had. She couldn't lose her baby on top of losing Tommy. She would have agreed to anything. She couldn't bear the thought of losing both of them. </div>
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Slowly she drifted off to sleep. Her hand resting on her stomach. She'd do anything to protect her child. The last remnant of what he had left of Tommy was growing inside her. It was precious. It would be worth whatever the cost to hold her son in her arms.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-74322136489126470682017-04-15T13:01:00.000-05:002017-04-15T13:01:23.473-05:004.28 Marked<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Standing outside the silent house Keenan alternated his weight from side to side. A slight frown furrowed his brow. Where was she? Cupping his hands he peered through the window trying to see inside. Nothing. No light. No movement. No sound.</div>
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She could have left. Gone somewhere with Velvet and forgot to tell him. Pulling his phone out he checked his messages. Nothing. No missed calls. No texts. Where was she?</div>
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A sense of foreboding engulfed him. She needed help. He was sure of it. He succumbed to the urgency overwhelming him. He brought his fist up to pummel the door. "Lydia" he called her name to no avail. He twisted the door knob until he heard the distinct ping as the lock gave way. He'd apologize later if it proved she wasn't home and not in danger at all.</div>
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Entering the darkening house eyes and ears alert. "Lydia" he called again. The silence even more ominous now than it had been moments before. He hesitated outside her bedroom door. Breathing hard, heart pounding inside his chest, his pulse race.</div>
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"Lydia" he cried stumbling towards her crumpled form. "Lydia" he repeated lifting her in his arms "Lydia honey you're going to be alright," he whispered in her ear unsure what else to say.</div>
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"Keenan" she mumbled eyes flickering open then closed just as quickly. She moved her arms around his neck as she nuzzled into him. Her lips caressed his sensitive skin along his neck behind his ear.</div>
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He stumbled into the living room where he laid her on the couch. Turning he turned on a nearby light. When he was finished Lydia pulled him down beside her "don't leave me" she requested her eyes bright with fear.</div>
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"I won't" he murmured moving to cradle her in his arms.</div>
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She clung to him shivering "don't go" she repeated.</div>
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Stroking her hair he held her tight until her tremors lessened. "Can you tell me what happened?" he asked his voice free of stress.</div>
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"It's here" she cried clinging to him.</div>
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"What's here?" he tried to keep the confusion from his voice. Other than him it didn't look like anyone else had been here.</div>
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"The darkness" her voice was little more than a whisper.</div>
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Taking her face between his hands she peered deeply into his eyes. He could see the fear in her eyes. Large deep pools of fear. He had to know "what's the darkness?"</div>
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A tear trickled from her eyes and down her cheek "it came for me once before. I was so little. It devoured the light....it wants to eat me now."</div>
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"I'll protect you" Keenan assured her wiping her tears dry "the darkness can't hurt you here."</div>
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She shook her head whimpering like a hurt puppy "you can't protect me. Nobody can. I've been marked. Marked by darkness. My brother was right. I don't belong...."</div>
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Keenan wrapped his arms around as if he were afraid she'd run away or disappear if he didn't. "He's wrong. I'll spend now and forever proving it to you." Those damn spots. He'd lay odds that those were the marks she had received as a small helpless child. "You're not marked for evil" he spoke with a ferocity he hadn't felt before "those marks mean you survived. The darkness has no hold on you. It marked you. It didn't win. It doesn't own you." He was guessing but he knew he was right. Somehow she was key to saving Kimberly and Phoebe. "We have to go baby" he spoke softly "we need your help to save another little girl fighting the darkness."</div>
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"I'm scared" she clung to him.</div>
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"I know baby I know" his lips tenderly graced her forehead "I'll protect you."</div>
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"Heath honey we're here" Don gently shook Heath's shoulder to wake him up.</div>
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"Mmm" Heath muttered drowsily nestling his head further into Don's shoulder.</div>
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"Come on wake up" Don chuckled as Heath moaned loudly like their teenagers did on a weekday.</div>
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As Madeline and Noah dispersed from the limo the cool night air blasted Heath in the face. "I'm awake" he complained "there's no need to blast the air conditioner."</div>
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Shaking his head Don reached over to wake their youngest son. "Owen it's time to wake up." He gently shook him "Owen sweety wake up."</div>
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The urgency in Don's voice broke through the lethargy in Heath's brain. "Owen this is daddy. Wake up baby" after several minutes of getting no response from the boy Heath turned to Don "what's wrong with him? Why won't he wake up?"</div>
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Numbly Don shook his head as fear seeped deep into his heart. He should have realized. The way Owen spoke with such conviction that Kimberly was ok. He should have known he was being affected by whatever the darkness is. Strong arms shoved him to the side. </div>
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Heath scooped his son into his arms and ran to the house. "Help. Someone help" he screamed as he kicked open the door.</div>
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He ran up the stairs to the room Kimberly was in. Upon entering he knocked into someone who was talking to a man he recognized as the doctor in charge of his daughters case. The man turned around saying "Heath" in a shocked surprised voice.</div>
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"Dad" Heath cried almost falling to his knees as relief flooded through him. His dad would know what to do "he won't wake up."</div>
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"Phoebe you need to make another rainbow" Owen screamed as a tentacle snaked out of the swirling mist and wrapped around his ankle.</div>
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"I don't know how" she cried grabbing his hand.</div>
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"Yes you do" he assured her gripping her hand "close your eyes and concentrate."</div>
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Tears streaked down the girls cheeks as she tried and failed "I can't I'm too tired."</div>
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"Don't let go of me" Owen cried as another tentacle wrapped around him pulling him towards the thickening mists.</div>
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"I won't. I promise" Phoebe cried pulling on his hands with everything she had.</div>
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Through the swirling mists an ethereal voice was heard singing a haunting tune</div>
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"Come play with me</div>
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On the swing.</div>
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Up and Down</div>
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and round and round.</div>
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We'll have fun</div>
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All day long"</div>
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"Who is that?" Owen asked relaxing his grip on Phoebe.</div>
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"Don't listen to her" she ordered "she's a bad person. She took my dollie away and brought the darkness."</div>
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"She sounds too pretty to be so bad" he spoke in a tired dreamy tone.</div>
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"Owen please don't listen to her" Phoebe pleaded digging her heals in attempting to slow the boys progress into the void.</div>
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"Come play with me Owen" the wandler invited "I'm lonely."</div>
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"She's pretty" he said as one hand fell from Phoebe's grasp "we should go to her."</div>
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"No no no" Phoebe screamed "I won't let you take anything else from me."</div>
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"What can you do to stop me?" the wandler asked taking solid form walking from the mist. With ease she took the boy from Phoebe's feeble grasp. For a moment the tentacles receded. Owen stood beside the wandler dazed and confused. "This boy is completely under my control." The wandler raised her hand immediately Owen raised a hand in quick compliance "shall we make him dance?" she asked the girl.</div>
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In horror Phoebe watched her favorite Uncle prance around the tiny clearing unable to control his own body. Tears ran helplessly down his cheeks "I don't like this game anymore" he cried as he gyrated to an unheard symphony.</div>
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"Well" the wandler challenged "you can't stop me can you? I have all the power and you have none. One by one I'll suck everything and everyone you know into the darkness. I'll grow stronger from their fear and you'll be unable to stop me."</div>
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Phoebe gasped taking an involuntary step backwards. Eyes fixed on Owen as an idea came to mind "I wont let you" she screamed.</div>
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"You can't stop me" the wandler taunted "you have no power here."</div>
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Stomping her foot Phoebe screamed "it's my dream world. I can do whatever I want." Squeezing her eyes tight she cried "I want rainbows and unicorns. Hearts and streamers. Puppy dogs and kittens."</div>
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A soft lick on her hand made her open her eyes wide in alarm. Looking down she found a large puppy licking the back of her hand. Owen was sitting on the ground in the middle of a litter of kittens climbing all over him. "It worked" she cried jumping around clapping her hands "it really worked."</div>
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Tommy and Velvet walked into chaos as everyone scrambled to wake up Heath's six year old son. Their questions went unanswered or unheard. They couldn't really tell. Tommy went to follow the clamber of voices when he felt a tug on his arm. Glancing down he found Velvet shaking her head at him an urgent gleam in her eyes.</div>
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He allowed her to pull him into an empty room. "What?" he asked once they were alone.</div>
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"I'm sorry for that little boy" her eyes darting around the room "we need to stay focused. We need to find that possessed object."</div>
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Tommy walked away from her breathing hard. He closed his eyes attempting to block out the sounds of the distraught family. This family was important to him. They had been close for years. He had heard the stories Peter told about William, his great grandfather. He ran a hand through his short hair turning to face Velvet a resolute expression on his face "let's do this."</div>
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She nodded moving towards him. She could see the pain in his eyes "this is the best way we can help" she assured him taking his hand.</div>
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Nodding he followed her up the stairs "what do we do?" he asked looking around wondering where the family had gone.</div>
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"Where's the little girl's room?" she asked.</div>
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"I..." he closed his eyes willing himself to remember. He had been here plenty of times. Had volunteered to read Phoebe bed time stories. He knew this. "In there" he pointed towards a closed door.</div>
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They slipped into the room a small light cast a soft glow in the darkness. A small child slept fitfully on the bed nearby. Drawn to the child's side Velvet reached a hand out as if to soothe the child.</div>
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She halted the gesture afraid to wake her. She leaned in close as the child mumbled something. </div>
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"What's she saying?" Tommy asked beside her.</div>
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Shaking her head Velvet said "something about rainbows and unicorns."</div>
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"Does that mean anything to you?"he asked.</div>
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"No" she straightened looking around the room "the poor sweet thing."</div>
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"Where do we start?" he asked uncertainty in his voice.</div>
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"How about you check the toy box and I'll check the closet" she suggested.</div>
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"I wish we knew what we were looking for?" he said opening the toy box.</div>
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"So do I" she tried to smile knowing it was small assurance that they were doing the right thing.</div>
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She reached into the dark confines of the closet. She felt drawn to something. Something evil, sinister. She gasped as her hand encountered something warm and solid to the touch.</div>
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"That's mine" a voice hissed.</div>
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Velvet groaned in pain as the dark fae grabbed her hand pulling her further into the darkness. She tried to scream. Tried to warn Tommy before she was sucked into the void.</div>
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Quinn could hear the thunder as it crashed over head. Knew it was the manifestation of her own anger. Who wold bring a wandler into her domain? Silver. It had to be him. Who else would want to destroy everything she worked so hard to save?</div>
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Where is that loathsome creature? She demanded of the air around her. She'd destroy that cockroach if it were the last thing she ever did. Council rules or not. She'd had enough. If it meant the survival of her dimension she was willing to ignore the rules. Her eternal damnation would be worth it if it meant Silver would no longer be capable of destroying anymore innocent lives.</div>
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She knew she was letting her anger take control. She needed to calm down before she did something irrevocable. It wasn't only her dimension anymore. It was too interwoven with Audric's and Phoenix's. She could feel the delicate balance she had achieved beginning to falter.</div>
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She closed her eyes. Took a deep breath. Breathing in and out. Pulse slowing the crashing of the thunder until it faded and was gone.</div>
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"When did you take up yoga?" Silver asked appearing before her.</div>
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Quinn's eyes flew open "where did you find a wandler?"</div>
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"Me?" he asked innocently "why must you always assume everything that goes wrong is my fault?"</div>
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"It always is" she said as her head began to pound.</div>
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He smiled at her like a little boy given a new toy "what a delightful new development. Wish I had thought of it."</div>
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She blinked in surprise. If not him than who? She had been so sure. So positive. Could someone else have convinced a wandler to help them? Had the wandler been here all along? Her breath caught in her throat. There was one other possibility.</div>
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Silver gave her a nasty grin "I see you have figured it out. My job is done."</div>
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"If you didn't do this then why are you here?" she demanded.</div>
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The room filled with his loud obnoxious laughter "your misery brings me such keen delight."</div>
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"Did you put them up to this?" she demanded.</div>
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"They don't trust me well enough to take my advise" Silver's eyes danced merrily in his head "they wouldn't have listened to me if I had suggested it." He walked nonchalantly towards her a sneer on his face "whoever thought you were capable of running an entire dimension must have been out of their ever loving minds."</div>
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Quinn reached out to grab the offending menace but came up grasping air. He vanished with only the echoes of his laughter resounding in her ears. What he said made sense. The counsel lacked foresight in their assigning dimension watchers. None of them had any training. Most of them were put in their positions as a punishment for their misdeeds. What qualifications did any of them have in running dimensions?</div>
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Was that the point? She felt the air drain from her body as she dropped into a nearby chair. Did the counsel expect them to fail? Was this struggle to fix things all a waste of time? Were they all meant to crumble and fall so they could reset and start over? </div>
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It was a sobering thought that left a sour taste in her mouth. She disliked being a pawn in someone's game. She wouldn't lose. She was through with following the rules.</div>
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"Erix" a voice said from behind him. Turning from the window a pained expression upon his face "we should not have unleashed that wandler."</div>
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His wife frowned at him anger flashing in her eyes "it's doing what we wanted it to do."</div>
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Shaking his head he glanced out the window "a little too well my dear. We wanted chaos. We got it. We wanted the child tormented. She is." He turned to face her "I have no stomach for it. I can't justify what we're doing to accomplish our goal."</div>
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"We need Quinn to give us what we need" the woman cried "she needs to see her favorite play things tortured before she'll take us seriously."</div>
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"It's wrong" his voice filled the room "I can't. I won't do this anymore. Recall the wandler."</div>
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"No" she said defying her ruler and husband "I commissioned the wandler. It does as I say."</div>
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"You want children that much that you would disobey me" Erix asked voice devoid of emotion "I won't torture an innocent child. The ends don't justify the means."</div>
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"You're weak" she screamed spit flying into his face "spineless."</div>
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"I advise you to hold your tongue" his voice sounded like doom "or I'll have it removed."</div>
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"I want my own children," she cried turning from him.</div>
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"Then you'll have them without me" he said coldly waving for the guards to take her.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-59398926062114518002017-03-04T21:27:00.000-06:002017-03-04T21:27:54.785-06:004.27 The Darkness<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Quinn entered Phoenix's safe haven. It was small like hers. No unnecessary adornments cluttered his haven unlike Audric's palatial abode. Audric could use the excuse that he needed the additional space to house individuals he was protecting. Yet neither she nor Phoenix had found it necessary to bring outsiders into their havens. Silver was the only visitor Quinn has ever had and he was uninvited.<br />
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"Quinn" a young voice called from a nearby tree.<br />
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Looking up Quinn saw a flash of red. Boy or girl she couldn't tell through the dense foliage of the tree. "Where's your father?" she called up into the tree.<br />
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"Away" came the uninformative response.<br />
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"Away where?" she asked. Of course she could find him if she really wanted to without their help. Phoenix was no doubt dealing with some problem within his dimension.<br />
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A tug on her sleeve had her looking down. A little boy smiled up at her with a dirty face. "Daddy said there was a problem he had to take care of. He went to fix it," the little boy explained. Quinn took the little boys grubby little hand as he led her to the house. "I'm in charge while he's gone" he informed her.<br />
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"He's isn't" an indignant voice said from behind them. "I'm in charge" Ivy said climbing down from her lookout in the tree.<br />
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"I hate to contradict you but I'm in charge" a deep voice said causing all of them to turn around in surprise.<br />
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"Daddy" the kids yelled in unison running to give their father a hug.<br />
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Quinn smiled watching them greet their father. An unfamiliar suffocating throb in her chest. She was missing so much of their young lives. At moments like this she envied Phoenix and even Audric the companionship of their children. Her melancholy was broken by someones strong arms pulling her close followed closely by their mouth's pressing passionately down on hers.<br />
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"Hello beautiful" he said running his fingers through her long hair "what brings you here?"<br />
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"I needed to see how you and the kids were doing" she smiled up at him comforted by the feeling of<br />
his arms wrapped reassuringly around her.<br />
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"Flattery will get you nowhere" Phoenix nuzzled his nose along her slender neck "I've missed you."<br />
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Laughing a little she melted into his arms "I've missed you too." She followed him into the house watching as he talked to the kids. Listened to them tell Phoenix everything they did while he was gone. While the kids ate their snack Phoenix took her hands "what brings you here?" he asked again without any of the earlier banter he had earlier.<br />
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Sighing she wondered if she were this easy to read by everyone or if it were just him. "I need your help" he nodded remaining silent waiting for her to tell him "what do you know of wandlers?"</div>
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A frown marred the beauty of his face "they spread darkness and fear."<br />
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"That much I know" she sighed "how do I get rid of it?"<br />
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"You need to destroy the object it's attached to" Phoenix rubbed his chin "you need to do it before it's able to spread it's influence."<br />
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"Influence?" Quinn raised an eyebrow "like casting enchanted sleep?"<br />
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She felt him shiver beside her "you have a serious problem Quinn" he raised his eyes "you need to get rid of it before the darkness spreads. The more people who fall victim to the darkness entering into enchanted sleep the harder it will be to destroy the wandler."<br />
<br />
Nodding Quinn suspected as much "so far I have two that have fallen victim. I suspect there will be more from what you've just told me. With every victim the wandler grows stronger and the darkness spreads."<br />
<br />
"I'm afraid so" Phoenix nodded "you don't have time to waste. You need to find that object and destroy it's hold on the child it's attached to." He watched her stand to leave before she disappeared he added "a wandler must have a handler. You need to find who unleashed it."<br />
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***</div>
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"Velvet what's wrong?" Tommy asked kneeling beside her his knees digging into the moist soil. In the few years they had been together he had never seen her cry. Reaching over he tugged on her hair.<br />
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"Ow" she mumbled sniffing "that hurts." She shoved him away from her as she got up.<br />
<br />
Stunned he picked himself up and ran after her. "Hey what's wrong?" he asked again running to keep up with her. "Please talk to me" he begged as she out distanced him.<br />
<br />
Slowing she stopped waiting for him to catch up. Tears glistened on her cheeks "I wasn't there" she cried "I never told her."<br />
<br />
"Never told who what?" he demanded twisting her around to face him.<br />
<br />
"My mother" she cried "she's fallen victim to an enchanted sleep."<br />
<br />
"Sleep" he asked confused "what's so wrong with that?"<br />
<br />
"You don't get it do you?" she cried pushing him away.<br />
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"Then explain it to me" he pleaded following her "explain to the dumb human what he's missing."<br />
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Stopping Velvet turned towards him "I'm sorry. It's just I'm really scared right now."<br />
<br />
He pulled her close "please tell me" he requested kissing her forehead.<br />
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"I'm not....sure" she hesitated "I'm not" she groped for words "I shouldn't know about my mother. It's my punishment for leaving."<br />
<br />
Being excommunicated took on a new meaning to him listening to her sob in his arms. "I'm sorry baby" he murmured in her ear.<br />
<br />
She took a deep fortifying breath "my dad risked everything to find me. To tell me. I don't want him to get in trouble. He has enough to deal with now.<br />
<br />
"I won't tell anyone" he promised "tell me what's an enchanted sleep."<br />
<br />
"One slips into an enchanted sleep right before death or is drawn into one by the darkness."<br />
<br />
Darkness. That had meaning to him. It was something Keenan had told him about. Kimberly, his niece had fallen into a coma after trying to connect with her daughter in a dream. Phoebe told everyone the darkness took her.<br />
<br />
His arms tightened around her. Velvet looked up at him in concern "you've heard of the darkness before haven't you?"<br />
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Nodding he explained what had happened to Kimberly. She gasped clutching at his shirt "what? What is it?" he demanded.</div>
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"It's a wandler" she gasped eyes unfocused "it has to be. There is no other creature who attaches itself to small children to feed off their fear."</div>
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"I don't understand" Tommy shook his head wishing his knowledge of supernatural things was more extensive.</div>
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"A wandler is a creature of the darkness. It has the ability to change form into whatever the child loves most." She pulled away from him "we have to hurry"she pulled on his hand in impatience.</div>
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He allowed her to drag him towards the parking lot where he normally left his car. When they got there she looked around confused "where is it? Where's your car?"</div>
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<div>
"I didn't drive today" he said panting. In Velvet's rush she forgot how much slower he was than her. "I walked here" he finished once he had gotten enough oxygen in his lungs.</div>
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She blew an exasperated sigh out her nose "I can't carry you" she said sounding irritated with him.</div>
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"It's not my fault I can't fly" he pulled away from her feeling like he was being ridiculed for being what he was a human. Weak, frail, slow, inferior everything he could see in the eyes of all the supernaturals he met in Moonlight Falls. He just hadn't expected it from her.</div>
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"It's not that" she cried pulling him along behind her "I'm sorry. I didn't mean it the way it sounded."</div>
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He stopped lungs heaving. He allowed her to turn him to face her "what's the urgency" he asked.</div>
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<div>
"We need to find the object the wandler is attached to" she explained.</div>
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His brows knitted together "what good will that do?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"If I remember right it should break the bond between the child and the wandler." She blinked back tears as she recalled her father's face as he told her about her mom "that's why my father came to me" she murmured "he knew it was a wandler. Mother must have tried to intervene..."</div>
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<div>
Pulling her close Tommy gently rubbed his hands in small circles across her back "what's a wandler?"</div>
<div>
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Leaning into him, drawing strength and comfort Velvet sighed "a wandler is a very ancient dark fae. Evolved from the darkness it serves."</div>
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"I thought you said it was a shape shifter" Tommy shook his head confused.</div>
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"It can" Velvet smiled as she transformed into a tiny winged creature.</div>
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Tommy smiled in childish delight "why haven't I seen you do this before?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"It never came up before" she said tugging on his arm as she took her normal form "and now isn't the time either. Come on we've got to go."</div>
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***</div>
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"Dad you shouldn't have agreed" Keenan jumped to his feet facing his father.</div>
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"It's not like I had a lot of choice" Adam said his voice carefully neutral.</div>
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"What about mom?" he asked "how does she feel about this?"</div>
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Before Adam could respond Beverly came into the room "I encouraged him to accept it." Her eyes snapped with energy challenging the young vampire.</div>
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"How could you?" he cried throwing himself into the chair he just vacated.</div>
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"Simple" she said quietly sitting beside him "your father's happiness matter's to me."</div>
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"He's happy with you" Keenan protested his tone sullen.</div>
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"Yes he is" she looked up and smiled at her husband "we love each other very much."</div>
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"Then why?" Keenan challenged.</div>
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"Because I love him" Beverly said eyes still locked on Adam "tell me Keenan what happens when I'm gone?" She turned her gaze on her son. She smiled at the thought. He was her son regardless of his parentage.</div>
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"But you're not" he protested his voice cracking. </div>
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Smiling gently at him Beverly reached over taking his hand "it's going to happen some day whether we want it to or not."</div>
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Keenan's eyes searched Beverly's face "I don't want to think about it" he murmured allowing her to pull him close.</div>
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<div>
"Neither do I" she agreed "sometimes we have to though. I want to know when I'm gone there will be someone here taking care of your father for me. I don't want to think of him being alone."</div>
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"He wouldn't be alone" Keenan protested "he has us. His family."</div>
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Beverly rolled her eyes at him "Keenan you know that's not the same. It helps. It's not the same."</div>
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<div>
He nodded thinking of a certain green skinned young elven woman who had become an important part of his life in a very short span of time. Of course they had known each other for over two years but hadn't gotten together until recently. A smile tugged at the corners of his mouth. Already he could imagine a lifetime with her.</div>
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Looking up at Adam Beverly smiled "I think our son's in love."</div>
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"I think you're right" Adam agreed as a sudden rosy glow spread across Keenan's cheeks.<br />
<br />
"Dad please" Keenan pleaded feeling the heat rise on his cheeks.<br />
<br />
"I want to meet her" Beverly enthused.<br />
<br />
"So do I" Adam nodded.<br />
<br />
Looking from one parent to the other Keenan sighed "alright I'll ask her. I know she'll say yes. It's all happening so fast." He felt like his head was spinning at the speed things were going. One moment he was heir the next he wasn't. Just an ordinary vampire with extra ordinary powers. He didn't mind not being heir. It was a large weight he had carried around with him. Now he felt lighter, freer then he'd ever felt before in his life.<br />
<br />
A knock interrupted their family moment. A guard stuck his head inside the room "Lord your escort is here."<br />
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A cloud fell across all their faces. "How is she today?" Keenan asked.</div>
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"She's still in a coma" Beverly told him "the doctors don't know why or if she'll ever wake up."</div>
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"Dad maybe I could..."</div>
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<div>
Shaking his head Adam motioned towards the guard. When the guard was once again on the other side of the door he side "I don't want you attempting to contact her. That's how she slipped into this enchanted sleep."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"That wouldn't happen to me" </div>
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<div>
"Promise me" Adam urged.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Alright" Keenan agreed as he looked into his father's anxious face. He followed them from the castle uncrossing his fingers. What his dad didn't know wouldn't hurt him. First he had to find Lydia.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Don came up behind Heath wrapping his arms around him. He could feel the tension in his husbands body. "Are you all packed and ready to go?" he asked kissing the back of Heath's neck.</div>
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"Uh huh" Heath sighed leaning into Don's caress "are the kids ready?" he asked stepping away from Don's embrace.</div>
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"They are" Don said following him around the room with his eyes.</div>
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"Good" was all Heath was able to say as he walked towards the door.</div>
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<div>
Sighing Don wished there was something he could say or do to alleviate some of Heath's stress. At times like this he felt useless. Sometimes he missed the days when Heath would look at him like he had all the answers. Sometimes Don felt like just another piece of furniture. There for decoration only. Had that been how Heath had felt like? Had that been why he had forced the issue with his art show? Don had never stopped to think about it until recently. He had never meant to make Heath feel that way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
They got into the car where the kids were already waiting for them. Heath turned to Don the same expression that never failed to make him feel like he could do anything. "She'll be ok won't she?" Heath asked clutching at Don's hand.</div>
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<div>
"Of course she will" Don told him even though he himself needed someone to tell him his baby girl would be alright.</div>
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<div>
Heath leaned his head on Don's shoulder. "I hope you're right" he murmured back low enough that only Don was able to hear him.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
"Me too" Don said kissing the top of his head. Regardless of the changes they had both gone through one thing always stayed the same. Their love for each other. No matter what Silver did to them they always had their love.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
He glanced across the seat where the kids sat staring at their tablets. Owen glanced up smiling "Kimmie will be ok daddy."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Shut up squirt" Noah grumbled beside him "you don't know that."</div>
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"I do to" Owen insisted.</div>
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"No you don't" Noah said with older brother superiority.</div>
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"Dad make them stop" Madeline pleaded.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Boys stop arguing" Don snapped feeling Heath stir beside him "honey its ok. Go back to sleep."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Dad he can't really know" Noah insisted "not even the doctor's know."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I know" Don acknowledged "it doesn't hurt to let him believe she's going to be alright though."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Understanding brightened Noah's eyes as he nodded. Owen looked from one to the other perplexed. "You believe me don't you? Kimmie will be ok."</div>
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<div>
"Yes son I believe you" Heath said lifting his head from Don's shoulder.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Don felt a chill run down his spine as a thought came unbidden to his mind "Heath you're not..."</div>
<div>
Heath inclined his head slightly before saying "I'll tell you later."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"She comes to you in your dreams doesn't she daddy?" Owen nodded "sometimes I see her clearly and other times it's just darkness. She tells me to wake up sometimes when the darkness reaches out to get me."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Sometimes there's a beautiful faerie" Heath added "she's fighting the darkness."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Owen nodded as if he had the same dream. Don no longer looked forward to the long drive where he hoped Heath would be able to sleep. Now he wondered if Heath would wake up at all. Was this Kimberly's way of communicating with them? Was she some how connecting to Heath and Owen in their dreams? Neither of whom had slept well since all of this started.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
"No daddy no" Phoebe screamed squirming in her father's arms as he carried her to her room "I don't want to go to bed. Please daddy don't make me."</div>
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<div>
Everett hated bed time. The screams. The pleas. The bruises he sustained as his daughter fought him kicking, hitting, screaming. You would think he was killing her instead of putting his four year old daughter to bed. "Honey I know you're scared. You need to sleep." He tried to comfort her to no avail. It was like she was deaf to his voice "I'll leave the light on" he said having accomplished getting her in her room "I'll be right here when you wake up. I promise I'll be right here."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Eventually her eyes grew heavy and despite her best efforts sleep overtook her. "Mommy" she called into the mists "Mommy where are you?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'm here baby. I'm here," Kimberly's voice called from the darkness.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Phoebe shivered as the tentacles stretched out to reach her. Screeching in terror she ran. No matter where she ran or how far she ran the darkness followed her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Poor little girl" a familiar voice soothed "so afraid."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Go away" Phoebe cried covering her ears.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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"Don't you like me anymore?" the voice taunted.</div>
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"I hate you" Phoebe stomped her foot "I want my dollie back."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I am your dollie" the voice said.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"My dollie would never hurt me" Phoebe protested.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I won't hurt you" the voice said "I'm your dollie. Come play with me."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No" Phoebe turned to run tripping over a tentacle. Screaming she flailed her arms out.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I got you" a familiar voice assured her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Owen you shouldn't be here" she said taking his hand.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Why not?" he asked sounding hurt "you needed help. I'm helping."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I want to go home" Phoebe cried falling into her young uncles arms.</div>
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"You have to wake up first" Owen said.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Shaking her head Phoebe pushed away from him "daddy would make me go back to bed."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Nodding Owen took her hand "we should find somewhere to hide."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The darkness is everywhere," Phoebe protested "there's nowhere to hide."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Of course there is" Quinn contradicted her "we just have to find the light."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"How?" the girl sniffed wiping her nose on the back of her hand.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Well" he tapped a finger on his mouth thinking "this is your dream work isn't it?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yeah" she hadn't thought of it like that before.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Then you can make the light" Owen said confidently "come on try it."</div>
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<div>
Squishing her face together she shook her head "I can't."</div>
<br />
Taking her hand he said "let me help. Think of something bright and happy."<br />
<br />
Smiling Phoebe clapped her hands together as a rainbow appeared above them "did I do that?" she asked in wonder.<br />
<br />
"I think you did" Owen stared up at the ominous sky "look" he pointed towards the tentacles "the darkness is going away."<br />
<br />
"We better find somewhere to hide" Phoebe suggested as the rainbow started to fade into the murky mists.<br />
<br />
Pointing to a tall building in the distance "do you think we could go there?" he asked.<br />
<br />
"It's too far" she whined.<br />
<br />
"I'll carry you" Owen offered letting the girl climb onto his back.<br />
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<br />DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-31596183822983930792017-02-22T22:12:00.001-06:002017-02-22T22:12:10.682-06:004.26 Lost in the Dark<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Kimberly leaned against her daughter's bedroom door. Squeezing her eyes shut she tried to blot out the sounds of her daughter's terrified screams.<br />
<br />
"Mommy don't leave me" Phoebe's pitiful pleas for her to come back almost broke her resolve as she began to open the door to go back inside.<br />
<br />
"Honey she needs to learn to sleep on her own" Everett said coming alongside her drawn by his daughter's pleas. Her screams were painful to bear.<br />
<br />
"I just want to hold her" Kimberly cried leaning into him seeking comfort "tell her she has nothing to fear."<br />
<br />
"I know" Everett soothed pulling her close "I want to do the same thing."<br />
<br />
"Then why are we out here listening to our baby cry? Pleading for us to come to her?" Kimberly demanded hands curled into fists pounding his chest.<br />
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<div>
Everett stilled her hands as he looked deep into her eyes. It wasn't a new thought for either one of them. Neither of them knew why their daughter had been having night terrors. They didn't know of any creature that could or would torment a child like that. His breath caught in his throat as he asked "could it be an IF?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"She doesn't have one" Kimberly sniffed drying her eyes "my family have banned those vile things from their homes." She took a deep breath turning towards their daughter's door "it's something else. I can feel her fear. It's real..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everett put a a hand on her shoulder squeezing tight "I believe you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
She reached up taking his hand "what are we going to do?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I don't know. At least not yet" he kissed the top of her head "we'll figure it out though."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
They both stared at the closed impassive door. Beyond that door was their little girl. Their daughter was being hurt by forces unknown. Leaning his ear against the door Everett sighed "I think she fell asleep." He ran his tongue along his bottom lip "do you think you can connect with her while she's asleep?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You mean see what she's dreaming about?" Kimberly asked "I..I don't know. I've never tried that before."</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div>
"Dark. So dark" Kimberly mumbled clutching at Everett's supporting arms. She felt him guide her towards something unseen. Nothing was real. Only the darkness. She shivered as a child called to her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Mommy" Phoebe cried in the distance "I don't like it here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Baby where are you?" Kimberly called disoriented in the darkness. </div>
<div>
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<div>
"Over here mommy" Phoebe cried out to her "hurry mommy. The darkness is coming to get me."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I'm coming sweetie" Kimberly called out hoping her voice would calm the panic rising in her daughter's voice. She turned in the direction she thought Phoebe's voice was coming from. She stumbled in the darkness. Falling head over heals like a ball bouncing down a flight of stairs. Moaning she lay in the dark, disoriented, breathing hard. She hadn't heard Phoebe's voice in a while. How long? She wasn't sure. She wasn't sure what was real anymore. Her anchor to the outside world was tenuous at best. She felt trapped. Scared. Lost.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Phoebe say something" she pleaded in the dark "let mommy know you're alright." Silence greeted her plea. The darkness felt oppressive pressing in around her like a living presence. "Phoebe" she screamed into the darkening void.</div>
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A rustling stirred the air around her. A light breeze blew her hair around her face and shoulders. A sound like laughter rolled around her. Directionless. Ominous. Coming from everywhere and nowhere at once.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"You don't belong here" a voice spoke loud in her ears. The warm breath of the unseen being brushed across her skin raising prickles of fear.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Who are you?" Kimberly asked her voice cracking "what are you?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I am the darkness" a cruel laugh cackled around her "I am the nightmare. I am fear. Darkness is my domain."</div>
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Dark wispy tentacles reached out to her. Pulling her deeper into the darkness. Panic settled in around her as she tried to fight off the persistent tentacles drawing her deeper and deeper into the darkness. </div>
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"What do you want with my daughter?" she shouted into the void hoping the darkness would respond.</div>
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"Who said I wanted her?" a voice in the darkness responded "maybe I want you. Maybe I'm lonely."</div>
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"No" Kimberly screamed as the tentacles squeezed her tight cutting off her air. Her lungs began to burn as her oxygen depleted and she began to suffocate.</div>
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***</div>
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"Kimberly" Everett shook her limp body "Kimberly wake up. Please baby wake up."</div>
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He had felt her body go stiff in his arms. The wheezing hiss as the air inside her was being squeezed out of her. Not breathing. Not moving. Limp.</div>
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He held her body to his chest rocking slowly back and forth. Pleading with her to wake up "come on baby please" he pleaded "please open your eyes. I need you. Don't go. Not like this." </div>
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Guilt knifed through him. He shouldn't have asked her to connect with Phoebe. Not when she had never done it before. He should have stopped her. It had been too risky. It was his fault she was dead. Just like his parents death had been his fault. </div>
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A low keening filled the air. All the guilt, the grief, and loss he was feeling came pouring out. He had nothing. Nothing left to hold on to. A shrill angry cry reached his ears through the walls taking moments for Everett to realize who and what it was. A baby. No doubt awakened by it's need to feed or have it's dirty diaper changed. Maybe it just needed the reassurance of a human touch. A baby?</div>
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Everett stirred. The cries meant something to him. He hadn't lost everything. He still had his son. Kissing Kimberly's forehead he carefully laid her body on the couch folding her hands across her chest. He moved towards his sons room taking one last glance back towards his wife's still silent body.</div>
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Opening the baby's room he quickly cared for the infants needs aware he had left it too long. The red purplish face screwed up in anguish as his cries turned to deep hiccuping. Soothing the baby in his arms his mind wandered to what he was going to do. How was he going to raise his children without their mother by his side?</div>
<div>
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<div>
He couldn't imagine a bleaker future than the one staring him in the face. "I'm sorry" he murmured swaying from side to side cradling his small son in his arms. "I don't know what to do" he said taking a deep shuddery breath forcing the tears back. He needed to think. He needed help. The silence of the house emphasized his lack of support.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Beverly was with Adam at the castle having been relocated there for better security after the failed assignation attempt on Adam's life. Heath had gone back to Midnight Hollow under heavy armed security as a potential target. Who did that leave? Peter? Maybe the patriarch of the family could help him. At least give him some ideas of the forces he was dealing with. Kimberly gave her life for their daughter. He wouldn't let that sacrifice be in vain. He was going to save their daughter.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Adam pierced his senior guard with a cold hard glare. "What do you mean he doesn't have a security detail attached to him?" Adam demanded his anger bubbling to the surface. "He's my son. He's a target just as much as I am." He stood moving around his desk. His agitation keeping him from standing or sitting still. "He's the heir" Adam hissed at the man who had no doubt done all he could to prevent the attack on him</div>
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"Sir" the werewolf rose from his chair "your son is capable of protecting himself. He has the power over life and death in this hands. My guards are afraid of him."</div>
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"That's utter nonsense" Adam shook his head. His heart beat within his chest a steady staccato beat. There was a dull residual ache where the stake had penetrated his chest "if it weren't for Keenan, my son, I wouldn't be here today."</div>
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Rubbing his chin his trusted guard nodded "I am aware of that. However people are afraid of what he might be capable of." He made hand dampening motions to keep Adam from flying into a rage "I will see what I can do. I ask you though what good is a security detail if the guards are too afraid of the person they are protecting?"</div>
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As much as he hated to admit it the guard had a point. His son was capable of protecting himself. Had survived this long without security protection. He let his silence tell of his displeasure. "I want my son to be allowed inside the castle walls to see me. Whenever he wants." He could see this did not sit well with the man "he's my son" Adam emphasized "Keenan is not a threat to my life."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuLlFOO9Mzk2Qmi1dGteIk-kGsUOP6Bcgdqj4pUK9HHKshw3GwztjrsRcEcMO4zFcZ4yO-ucBFauuQmsEf6pBjbS38TQ2TTRXDMnu8yTfkrGNbJ1RWpyRSV4J4npNxZZX-lgJsZT5KXB-/s1600/Screenshot-295.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwuLlFOO9Mzk2Qmi1dGteIk-kGsUOP6Bcgdqj4pUK9HHKshw3GwztjrsRcEcMO4zFcZ4yO-ucBFauuQmsEf6pBjbS38TQ2TTRXDMnu8yTfkrGNbJ1RWpyRSV4J4npNxZZX-lgJsZT5KXB-/s640/Screenshot-295.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"I'll make the arrangements" the guard nodded "he'll be allowed inside the castle from this time forward."</div>
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"Which leads me to my next request" Adam smirked seeing the man fidget uncomfortably before him "my wife and I would like to return to our home."</div>
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"You are home" the guard emphasized "it was a mistake to allow you to live outside the castle walls."</div>
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"Yet it was inside these very walls I was attacked" Adam pointed out to the obvious chagrin of the werewolf.</div>
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"Your place is inside the castle" the werewolf grumbled "no ruler has lived outside the castle walls."</div>
<div>
Crossing his arms Adam prepared to argue his case when the door of his office was thrown open. </div>
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"Alanon" Adam acknowledged the powerful mage "what brings you here?"</div>
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"Eyes sliding towards the guard before addressing Adam "forgive my intrusion" he bowed deeply before continuing "I have important things to discuss with you."</div>
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Turning to Adam the senior guard bowed "I will see to what we discussed."</div>
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Adam inclined his head in acknowledgment despite the fact that nothing had changed except for the lifting of the banishment of Keenan from the castle walls. "What's so important that it couldn't wait?" he challenged Alanon.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"The body of elders have convened" Alanon said without preamble "it's not good."</div>
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Adam knew the elders of the other supernatural clans were meeting and had been behind closed doors for over a week. "What have they decided?" this could be the moment he became the ex-ruler of Moonlight Falls. The prospect was not that bad. He hadn't wanted the position to begin with. Hadn't wanted to become a vampire much less a ruler. </div>
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Alanon gave him a slight smile a small matter of lifting the corners of his mouth for a brief moment before saying "essentially they back you a hundred percent as ruler of Moonlight Falls. They don't want Serafino or anyone else in that position." He paused looking away from the other man he had come to consider a friend "they don't want Keenan to be heir."</div>
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"He's my son" Adam objected "he's the heir. A vampire."</div>
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Shaking his head Alanon sighed. He knew this would not be easy especially not the next part of what he had to apprise his ruler, his friend of. "They won't except him as heir. He's too powerful. The vampires have rejected him as part of their community. He's an outcast. He will not be accepted. I'm sorry."</div>
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Adam stared at his friend his most trusted adviser. "No I won't accept that" he shook his head sitting in his chair "I won't. I can't." He dragged his fingers through his short hair.</div>
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"Beverly is past the age of bearing children," Alanon pointed out feeling like he was rubbing salt in an open wound. "The elders won't take no as answer. You must do this."</div>
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Lifting his head his hair standing at odd angels "I'd be better off dead." He stared at his hands numbness spreading through his body. Nausea twisted his intestines causing his stomach to rumble inside him. "I can't do this. I can't hurt her like this. She's my wife. She's stuck by me through all of this." He slammed his fist onto the desk causing several items to crash to the floor.</div>
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Alanon glanced at him with understanding. He had waited for centuries to finally have his love by his side. Fortunately for him he could retain his position without needing an heir. Adam needed an heir because of fear. Fear that any man would become corrupt with absolute power. An heir would keep any one man from becoming too powerful. They had learned from past experience "I'm sorry they won't budge on this point" he stirred uneasily in his seat.</div>
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"I'll step down" Adam said "I won't be ruler anymore."</div>
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"Adam please" Alanon was afraid this would be his reaction "don't do anything rash. The people need you. They trust you. You give them hope."</div>
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"I can't do what they want" Adam shook his head "what choice do I have?"</div>
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"I did manage one concession" Alanon said looking Adam in the eyes "you're not going to like it."</div>
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Straightening in his chair Adam closed his eyes "no" he snapped "impossible."</div>
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"Be reasonable" Alanon entreated him "they don't expect you to abandon your wife or get a divorce. They're willing to wait until she lives out her normal lifespan."</div>
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Live out her lifespan. Those words were a bucket of cold water being poured over his head. It was a fact. Beverly would die while he lived on. He hadn't wanted to face that fact. He had seen the devastation Jean's death had on his father's life. A simple flu virus and she was gone. His father was a shadow of what he once was. That's not the future Adam wanted for himself. It was the one he had accepted by remaining with Beverly. Now that was being brutally changed. He was going to be expected to replace her. Produce another acceptable heir the elders could approve.</div>
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"They're asking the impossible" Adam blinked back tears "I can't just stop loving someone just because they aren't around anymore."</div>
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"You can't live in a vacuum either" Alanon kept his voice calm "just think about it. You don't have to do anything now. You have time."</div>
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Adam gave him a scathing look that would have sent others running towards the door. "I don't want to think about it. The whole idea is repulsive."</div>
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"I know" Alanon stood laying a gentle hand on Adam's shoulder "I'm sorry. I wish things were different."</div>
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Nodding Adam stared blankly at the far wall seething inside. The future was bad enough to contemplate without Beverly by his side. How would it be to have someone else by his side? Would he be able to love someone else?</div>
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Standing he opened his office door. As expected several guards were stationed nearby. Grimly he ignored their expressionless faces as he proceeded down the hall towards his living quarters. He needed to see his wife. Hear her voice. Feel her in his arms.</div>
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***</div>
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Beverly didn't need to be told something was wrong to know it. One look at Adam's pale face and smoldering eyes was enough to confirm her suspicions. She moved towards him without a word passing between them. Wrapping her arms around him her face pressed against his chest.</div>
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He wrapped his arms around her slim body. He brought a hand up to caress her hair more grey then red now. He cupped her face between his hands. Searching her face noting the lines in her once porcelain skin, "do you ever regret not becoming a vampire?"</div>
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She gazed steadily into his brown eyes lighter now from the soft vampiric glow that hadn't been there when they first met. "No" she shook her head "I was a vampire once. I couldn't...I wasn't strong enough." She bit her bottom lip remembering the taste of blood as it flowed down her throat while she drained the life's blood from her own son. She couldn't take that risk again. "I'm sorry" she mumbled turning away.</div>
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"No" Adam held her against him "that wasn't your fault. I wish things had been different. I wish we could have grown old together."</div>
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"What happened?" she asked bringing her hands up stroking his cheek.</div>
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"Nothing" he mumbled turning from her scrutiny.</div>
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"I know that isn't true" she took his hand guiding him to the couch "tell me."</div>
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An hour later she leaned into him silent "I guess that it's then" she murmured softly "you'll remarry once I'm gone."</div>
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"I won't" he said firmly "I'll resign. I'll drink IF blood. I'll..."</div>
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"You'll do no such thing" she shook her head at him "The people need you. Your family needs you." Taking his hand she squeezed it tight "your dad needs you."</div>
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"I don't want to go on without you" his lips quivered from the emotions he was trying to hold back.</div>
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"Things change" she said maintaining eye contact with him "I love you. I will love you until the end of time. That won't change regardless of who your with in this time." Tenderly she brought her lips to his. Caressing him with hers feeling the jagged edges of his fangs. A sure indicator of his inner turmoil "I want you to be happy. I want you to find love again. Forever is a long time to be alone"</div>
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"So you think I should remarry. Start a new family" Adam asked squeezing her tight as if he were afraid she'd vanish.</div>
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"I don't want you to be alone" she snuggled into him "I see the pain Peter is in. He misses Jean so much."</div>
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"Jean was the love of his live as you are mine" Adam murmured kissing her softly "he hates knowing he'll never grow old. That everyone and everything he knows will be gone while he remains."</div>
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"I don't want that for you" Beverly said turning in his arms "I want you to find love again. I want you to find happiness after I'm gone." She looked up at him "promise me you'll try. For me."</div>
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Adam stared deep into her ageless green eyes. For a moment he saw their life together. All the good and all the bad times. All the tiny things that formed the fabric of their lives together. He didn't want to lose that. Lose her. He couldn't imagine a life without her. He could see the half worried half pleading look in her eyes as she stared up at him. He opened his mouth to argue instead he said "I don't want to." The disappointment in her eyes filled him with anguish "I'm sorry" he murmured.</div>
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<div>
Gently she wiped a stray tear from his eyes "I understand. I'd feel the same as you if I were in you shoes." Tenderly she placed her lips to his "what we have is wonderful. It can't last forever though. You once said you'd do anything for me. Now's your chance to prove it. Do this for me? Give me the peace of mine that you'll fall in love again."</div>
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He bowed his head unable to endure her emerald gaze. "I love you. Always will." He lifted his eyes </div>
<div>
"I don't know if I can do this even for you. All I can do is try. That's the best I can do."</div>
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"Then that's all I'll ask for" she caressed his cheek "I love you so much."</div>
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"I love you too" he sighed pulling her close capturing her lips with his, a hungry passionate kiss full of impending loss and love. She was his life. His body ached knowing there time was growing shorter with each passing day.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-27485448893144117902017-02-13T06:35:00.001-06:002017-02-13T06:35:38.301-06:004.25 The Power Within<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfiVoJFg0e8N4crT0uQYd2goqPZcZM38-wvBpzFtkRAyy90BPcpeZpjSh8X9Lr07MU3vFaX_aJiTqfOcwPHzKKiVpiw38LuWKO3c-giB0jW1Zw4ABJHFew4xSnh5P7X_tGMYRPZ7FiL6Y/s1600/Screenshot-169.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvfiVoJFg0e8N4crT0uQYd2goqPZcZM38-wvBpzFtkRAyy90BPcpeZpjSh8X9Lr07MU3vFaX_aJiTqfOcwPHzKKiVpiw38LuWKO3c-giB0jW1Zw4ABJHFew4xSnh5P7X_tGMYRPZ7FiL6Y/s640/Screenshot-169.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Keenan shrugged off the well meaning hands and whispered words of encouragement. It was all so meaningless. If his dad died all their well meaning words were for nothing. He looked up as the door opened and his Grandpa Peter walked into the room. Lines etched into his face were all Keenan needed to know to see how bad things were. His father was dying. He would be made ruler of Moonlight Falls. He swallowed over the hole in his stomach. He wasn't ready. He didn't want the title or the responsibility. He should have had years before this fell upon his shoulders.<br />
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He felt the hand on the back of his shoulder. He wanted to scream at whoever it was to leave him alone. He didn't want to hear anymore well meaning words. "Son" Peter's voice intruded upon his dark thoughts.<br />
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"What?" he growled without turning.<br />
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"Come with me," Peter said exerting pressure on his back.<br />
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Turning Keenan glared at the faces in various stages of disbelief and grief. Everyone his family. Each one important to him. Each devastated by the tragic events. He shouldn't be angry at them but he was. He was angry at everyone.<br />
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Silently he followed Peter from the room. Crossing his arms he tried to brace himself for the news. The blow that would leave a hole in his heart forever. "Is my father dead?" he asked his voice even to his ears cold, angry, heartless.<br />
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"Not yet" a familiar voice assured him.<br />
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His head jerked up "what are you doing here?"<br />
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"I'm here to help" Quinn said stepping forward.<br />
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"How can you help?" he demanded. He could feel his walls crumbling around him. Her words were like a life preserver to a drowning man. At what cost? Would his dad want this woman's help? Who was she?<br />
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Quinn watched the conflicting emotions flit across his face. Saw how young he was. Knew how difficult this was for him. "I wish I could do more," she said locking her eyes with his "I can't interfere..."</div>
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"Then what good are you?" he shouted taking a menacing step forward fangs growing as his anger burned within him.</div>
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"I have options for you" she said unmoved by his display of vampiric fury.</div>
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"Options?" he hissed eyes glowing as he circled her.</div>
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"Keenan listen to her" Peter advised his tone calm, even, persuasive "she can help."</div>
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Snorting Keenan demanded "what are those options?"</div>
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"Yes tell the boy his options" Silver sneered "while your explaining it to him Adam will be dead."</div>
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"Silver you shouldn't be here" Quinn shouted her voice like thunder.</div>
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Ignoring her Silver directed his attention to his son "I can save him. I want to save him."</div>
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"At what cost?" Peter demanded coming alongside Keenan.</div>
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"Why must you assume there's a cost?" Silver inquired "can't I do something out of the kindness of my heart?"</div>
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"No" Peter shouted for the first time losing his cool "there's always a cost. What's in it for you?"</div>
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"I want what's mine" Silver screamed dropping all pretenses.</div>
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"He's not yours" Quinn asserted.</div>
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"So you'd rather see him die than let me have him" Silver let his words drip with scorn and self righteous indignation. "What about you son? Are you ready for daddy to die?"</div>
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"Think about what your dad wants" Peter advised.</div>
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Whirling around Keenan shouted "what about what I want?"</div>
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Silver gave Quinn a smirk as if to say I win. "We have a deal?" Silver asked staring at the boy.</div>
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Keenan turned his back on Peter facing the slimy two faced creature that had tormented his family multiple times. He wanted to except the deal. Anything to keep his dad alive. He couldn't. He couldn't save his dad's life only to have him hate him later. To be a great leader was being able to make difficult decisions. The unpopular decisions. The decisions that hurt even when you knew they were for the best. "No" Keenan shook his head "dad would rather be dead than be with you." He gulped in a huge breath of air holding it. Although he knew what he said was true it felt like he was sentencing his father to death.</div>
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"You'll regret this" Silver screamed "I won't give up...I'll..."</div>
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"You'll what?" Peter asked putting a comforting hand on his grandson's shoulder. Squeezing tightly "Adam will be gone. What else can you do?"</div>
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Keenan could hear the pain, the sorrow and grief in his grandfather's voice. He never realized how close Peter had been to Adam, growing closer after the death of Grandma Jean.</div>
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"I will destroy everything you hold dear" Silver directed his venomous words to Keenan. "You'll have no one to blame but yourself. One by one your family will perish."</div>
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"Leave my family out of this" Keenan shouted mustering what strength he had "they've done nothing to you."</div>
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"Nothing but stand in my way" Silver shook his head "they turned my son against me. I'll turn them against you. You've chosen your fate." He laughed turning to Quinn "someone disobeyed orders. The amulet's power has been broken."</div>
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Rushing towards him Quinn grabbed his arm "I won't let you take him."</div>
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"You can't stop me" Silver shoved her aside.</div>
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"Watch me," she said exerting a temporary field around Silver freezing him in place. "Go to your father" she directed Keenan.</div>
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"And do what?" Keenan demanded.</div>
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"You have Silver's DNA. His ability is yours. Tap into it." The power drain was immense as she struggle to contain Silver "that power comes from me. This vile creature is part me."</div>
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Keenan's eyes grew wide. He wondered if he had that kind of power in him. Was it that energy he sensed within him that terrified him? There were so many questions he wanted to ask but to delay meant giving Silver the chance to escape.</div>
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Turning he ran towards the infirmary. Trusting that Quinn would delay Silver long enough for him to do whatever he needed to do. He didn't know why he could trust her. He just felt he could. She was in a sense his grandmother if her claim to be genetically related to Silver was correct. This power running through him wasn't something to be feared after all.</div>
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He crashed into the closed door into his father's room. The security guards stepped aside allowing him access. The doctor shook his head laying a hand on Keenan's shoulder "I'm sorry. We did all we could."</div>
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All they could. The words echoed in his head. How many times had he heard those words in some TV show or movie? He knew those words were meant to comfort him. They just sounded so ominous. So final. His dad was losing the fight to live.</div>
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He approached the bed noting the amulet had been removed. The horrific wound in his chest was hidden behind sterile bandages. This was his dad. This shell was all he had left. When the breath went out of him the shell too would be gone.</div>
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Cautiously he put his hand out over the wound. Closing his eyes he blotted out the sounds of the doctors and nurses shuffling around him. The commotion outside the door. Quinn? Silver? He'd better hurry.</div>
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He could feel the energy within him building. He tried not to worry what was happening or what he was about to do. He simply let it flow through him becoming him. The door opened letting the chaos into the quiet hospital room. He could feel Quinn's approval. Silver's outrage. Another presence comforting and familiar "dad?" he said "don't go. It's not time. There's still so much left for me to learn."</div>
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"Son" Adam's voice startled him.</div>
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"Dad" Keenan cried "don't go. I need you." He waited for a response but none came. He cried out louder "I don't know what to do. Tell me what to do." He felt like a child lost and afraid. He tried to focus but the chaos around him prevented it.</div>
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"Hurry son" Adam's voice loud and clear in his head "concentrate on me. Blot out everything else. The noise. The people. The only thing that matters is us. Do you feel the energy? The power?"</div>
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"I feel it" Keenan acknowledged "what do I do with it?"</div>
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"Release it" Adam told him.</div>
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"Release it where?" Keenan balked at the idea of sending it pulsating into his father's body "it could kill you."</div>
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"I'm already dead" Adam told him "I can see into your mind that I'm needed here but I can't stay without the energy you can give me."</div>
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"I don't want to hurt you" Keenan shouted "what if this is just the beginning? What if by using the power I received from Silver will it turn me into a monster?"</div>
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"It won't" Adam assured him" you're my son. You're stronger than you think."</div>
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"What if I'm not?" Keenan cried "what if I let this power corrupt me?"</div>
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"You stood up to Silver" Adam said "you refused to let him save me. You kept him from getting what he wanted. You overcame your own desires to keep me alive than giving into Silver's demands. I'm so very proud of you." Adam sighed sounding resigned "I have to go. I love you son."</div>
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"You can't go" Keenan called out to him again and again receiving on response. He could feel the energy sizzling within him. He pressed his hand down on Adam's chest ignoring the doctor telling him his dad was gone. That was lie. He had just been talking to him. He wasn't gone. He couldn't be gone. He needed him.</div>
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He was thrown backwards by the sudden release of energy. He lay for a moment dazed on the floor. What just happened? Struggling to sit up Keenan found everyone standing around Adam's bedside. </div>
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"Did it work?" he choked out the words his throat raspy and dry.</div>
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Quinn knelt beside him "I knew you could do it."</div>
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<div>
"Do what?" he asked confused.</div>
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"You tapped into your power" Quinn said helping him up "be careful how you use it."</div>
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<div>
Before he could ask her any questions she was gone. Keenan took a couple of wobbly steps towards his father's bed. The doctors and nurses seemed to be scurrying around like rats in a maze. "What did you do to him?" one doctor demanded sounding belligerent.</div>
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<div>
"I don't..." he raised a hand only to have the man flinch from his touch. "I won't hurt you" despite his assurances the man continued to look at him with fear and distrust. Gazing around the room he found a guard coming towards him. "Come with me" the angry unfriendly voice commanded. With a final glance at his father Keenan turned to follow the guard to the waiting room.</div>
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***</div>
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Keenan sat alone staring into the fire. It was difficult to believe it had been four weeks since Serafino had tried to have his dad assassinated. His methods weren't likely to engender him with the influential families in Moonlight Falls. Using a group of drugged inexperienced vampires to carry out his commission had left a sour taste in several people's mouths. Even the ones who supported Serafino and his views were running for cover.</div>
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Sighing Keenan sat back watching the flickering flames. He should be happy his dad was alive. He glanced down at his hands shivering despite the warmth of the fire. What was he? People who had known him all his life avoided him now. It was like everyone was afraid to be too close to him.</div>
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<div>
He wore gloves to ease their minds that he couldn't touch them. That he wouldn't hurt them. It did little to reassure them. If he was able to restore someone back to life than he could take that life as well. Had this circumstance been what Silver wanted all along?</div>
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<div>
"Is this seat taken?" a soft feminine voice asked.</div>
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Without glancing up Keenan nodded keeping his eyes focused on the fire.</div>
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"How's your dad?" she asked her voice gentle, her eyes on the fire.</div>
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Keenan made a noncommittal grunt before looking in her direction. "Why are you talking to me?" he asked.</div>
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<div>
"I know how you feel" she moved her shoulders in a self deprecating shrug.</div>
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<div>
"How could you know how I feel?" he demanded "people I've known all my life avoid me. Won't talk to me. Walk across the street when they see me coming. There's no possible way you could know how I feel."</div>
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<div>
"That's where you're wrong" she tossed her long hair over her shoulder. Light from the fire made her tears glisten on her cheeks "my own brother kicked me out of the only home I've ever known."</div>
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<div>
That statement caught Keenan's attention. His eyes narrowed taking in her appearance "Why?" he asked looking into her beautiful face and for the first time noticing the sadness in her eyes.</div>
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<div>
"I'm different" she moved a long green leg stretching it out in front of her pointing towards the spots that traveled up and down it "those aren't normal elven markings."</div>
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<div>
Without thinking Keenan gently touched her skin "what are they?" he asked gently caressing her skin.</div>
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"No one knows" she sighed heart beating fast. All her senses centered on his touch. She made an indistinct sound.</div>
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Keenan jerked his hand away realizing at that moment what he was doing. "I'm sorry" he mumbled "I didn't think I..." he got up and stumbled for the door.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Breathing deeply gulping in the cool night air Keenan knew he should go back inside let Tommy know he was leaving. He couldn't face seeing her again. A slight smile graced his lips at the thought of her. He didn't even know her name yet he knew he'd never forget her. What were those spots? Were they significant? Why would her brother kick her out of her home? Was it just because she had markings that couldn't be explained by normal Elven lore? Had she been born that way? Had the spots appeared over time? Something within him was compelling him to find out.</div>
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<div>
"I thought I'd find you out here" a soft voice said beside him.</div>
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<div>
"You were looking for me?" he didn't know why but that thought gave him a warm fuzzy feeling deep within him.</div>
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She looked away brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. "You left so suddenly I was worried about you" she placed a hand on his forearm "why'd you leave?"</div>
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"I..." he glanced down at her hand "I don't know." He moved his eyes from her hand to her eyes "I don't know your name."</div>
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"Lydia" she said with a smile patting his arm.</div>
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It felt like he had been bestowed with a rare precious gift "thank you." A radiant smile spread across his face adding a twinkle to his eyes "why aren't you afraid of me like everyone else?"</div>
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"I'm not like everyone else" she giggled "neither one of us are what we appear to be."</div>
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Nodding he put a hand out and gently urged her to walk with him. It was strange to be out without a horde of guards watching protectively around him. None of his normal werewolf guards wanted to be anywhere near him.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Tommy paced the floor waiting for Keenan to come home. Glancing at the time he groaned wondering for the hundredth time if he should call someone. Keenan had never been out this late before usually it was him waiting up for Tommy to return from one of his dates with Velvet. Tommy threw himself into a chair trying to convince himself that he had nothing to worry about. Keenan could take care of himself.</div>
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He jumped up as the door opened and Keenan walked in a goofy grin on his normally serious face. </div>
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"Where have you been?" Tommy demanded sounding more like his mother than he ever wanted to be.</div>
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"Walking" was the non informative response.</div>
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"Walking?" Tommy said voice rising in indignation "do you know how late it is?"</div>
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Keenan stared blankly at him a moment before a giggle escaped "do you hear yourself?" he asked grinning at his friend "you sound like my dad."</div>
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"Well I..." Tommy groped for something witty to say. Coming up empty he shrugged "I was worried about you."</div>
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"You're the only one who is" Keenan said somewhat bitterly.</div>
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"You know that isn't true" Tommy protested "your family cares about you. Don't shut them out."</div>
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"That's easier said then done" Keenan muttered "It's not like the guards will let me anywhere near them."</div>
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"I know. I'm sorry" Tommy put a hand on Keenan's shoulder giving him a reassuring squeeze "it'll get better. They're just scared."</div>
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"Yeah they're scared of me" Keenan mumbled dropping morosely into a chair "they look at me like I did this. I'd never hurt anyone much less my dad. Never."</div>
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"You saved his life" Tommy pointed out "no matter what happens you have that. That has to mean something."</div>
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Leaning forward Keenan rubbed his eyes "I guess. It's just really hard to see people I've known all my life look at me with so much fear and hatred. They know me. Watched me grow up."</div>
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"Give them time" Tommy urged "they're still reeling from the assassination attempt on your father. </div>
<div>
You'll see things will change once things settle down."</div>
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"You think so?" he asked looking up at Tommy's concerned face.</div>
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"I do" Tommy said confidently "now tell me all about your evening with Lydia."</div>
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"You're just changing the subject" Keenan protested.</div>
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"Of course I am" Tommy smiled innocently "I'm curious. Lydia is pretty and seems really into you. Come on tell me something."</div>
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Keenan glanced away embarrassed by Tommy's unabashed curiosity. He could feel his cheeks heating up as he remembered how soft her skin felt beneath his fingertips. He could sense Tommy watching him. Standing up he moved towards his bedroom door "wouldn't you like to know" he laughed opening his door "I'm going to bed."</div>
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"Hey" Tommy shouted following him "I deserve more than that. After all the worrying I did waiting up for you to come home."</div>
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Whistling softly Keenan shook his head as he shut his bedroom door. He knew Tommy wouldn't let a simple closed door stop him. No sooner had he stripped out of his clothes Keenan looked up as his door banged open.</div>
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"My eyes" Tommy slapped a hand across his eyes dramatically stumbling around as if he had been suddenly struck blind "dude you need some sun."</div>
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"Dude I'm a vampire" Keenan shook his head "I'm supposed to be pale."</div>
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"Maybe your kids will get their mother's skin tone...green" he laughed at the half exasperated half angry look Keenan gave him "well you do like her don't you?"</div>
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<div>
"Yeah but that doesn't mean I'm already planning my life with her" Keenan said moving towards the bed "I barely know her much less want to have kids with her. Now get out and let me get some sleep."</div>
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Moving towards the door Tommy turned off the light "I'll just ask Velvet for the information I seek."</div>
<div>
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"You do that" Keenan closed his eyes a smile upon his face confidant that Lydia would no more confide in her roommate than he had in Tommy.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-69588575932299325692017-02-01T06:49:00.003-06:002017-02-01T06:49:49.187-06:004.24 Assassination Attempt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The guard carrying Adam stumbled and fell. Adam's body sprawled on the floor. The senior guard crawled over to Adam's inert body. His fingers fumbled for a pulse. His hands came back slicked with blood. "Get the castle doctor. Now" he commanded one of his underlings.<br />
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"Yes sir," one of them mumbled dragging their eyes from their fallen ruler.<br />
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Standing the senior guard growled at the confused group of scared young vampires. "Take them to the dungeons" he stepped aside as the doctor was escorted inside along with several nurses. He found the trusted mage Alanon standing against the far wall. Waving him over he asked "can you do anything for him?"<br />
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Shaking his head Alanon said "no all we can hope is the surgeon can remove the stake. It missed his heart so there's hope."<br />
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Nodding the burly werewolf digested the mages assessment "come with me," the werewolf commanded.<br />
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Dragging his eyes from his friend Alanon followed the guard "where are we going?" he asked as they took the stairs down towards the dungeon.<br />
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"I need you to take a look at the ones responsible for this travesty" the guard explained.</div>
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Standing in front of the cell Alanon was surprised who many of the vampires were. "What am I looking for?" he asked confusion coloring his words.</div>
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"I'd rather not say. I want your unbiased opinion" the guard said</div>
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Nodding Alanon focused his attention on the imprisoned vampires. All from prominent families many of which had been long time supporters of Adam. Why would they attack him? He had never considered any of these young men as dangerous or capable of killing someone. He shivered as they stared back at him with blank uncomprehending eyes. Something was terribly wrong. It felt as if they weren't really there. "Are they drugged?" he asked "they seem to be in a daze or under a spell." He added the last hesitantly. Who among his kind was powerful enough to cast such a spell? Who would want Adam dead? Would one of his people be working for Serafino without his knowledge? </div>
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Rubbing his chin with his one good hand the senior guard nodded "that's what I'm thinking too." Turning he leaned heavily against the wall.</div>
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"You're hurt" Alanon exclaimed upon seeing the blood left on the wall from the man's wound.</div>
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"My wounds are inconsequential compared to the esteemed one" the guard retorted pushing off the wall.</div>
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"Don't neglect yourself" Alanon insisted "we need your expertise to safeguard the castle."</div>
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"Once I ensure against further attack I will report to the infirmary" the man snarled. Nodding towards the prisoners "can you tell who put these children up to this attack?"</div>
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"It will take time," Alanon said regretfully "I will see what I can find out. Can you have one of them brought to me?"</div>
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"Which one?" he growled disliking the idea.</div>
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"That one" Alanon pointed "the one who staked the esteemed one." He watched as the bewildered youngster stared at his bloodied hands "give me an hour to set things up."</div>
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"You'll have him" the werewolf agreed "after your finished I will interrogate him."</div>
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***</div>
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Smiling Tommy lifted the faeries hand placing a soft kiss on the back "it's a pleasure to meet your acquaintance" he smirked.</div>
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Velvet pulled her hand away. Skin tingling where his lips had grazed it. It was like nothing she had ever experienced before. Not once had her stomach somersaulted at the sound of her intended one. Not once had her body tingled in anticipation of his touch. Remotely she wondered if this was the way it was supposed to be between people. Was this the fabled love at first sight she had read so much about?</div>
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Her eyes were drawn to his lips. The way his tongue moved as he talked left her feeling weak and breathless. "So Velvet where do you come from?" the sound of his voice saying her name sent shivers all the way down to her toes.</div>
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With a mental shake she tore her eyes from his mouth and her thoughts of how those lips would feel caressing her skin. "Um what?" she mumbled as if waking from a trance.</div>
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"Where are you from?" he repeated "Keenan says it's a unusual for a bumble fairy to be away from their cluster."</div>
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She could feel his eyes upon her, curiosity shining bright. She felt her cheeks flush with heat under his scrutiny. She gave herself a little shake giving him a dramatic shrug "I guess you could say I ran away."</div>
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She could see the shock and dismay in all of their eyes as the group stared at her. "You can't go back" Keenan blurted out unable to contain his shock any longer.</div>
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"No I can't" she sighed as the sadness and loneliness settled around her like a large heavy cloak.</div>
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Grabbing her hand Tommy pulled her towards the dance floor "we're here to have fun. Let's dance." His infectious smile had her smiling up at him. "That's better" he grinned "I can't have my cute little bumble being sad."</div>
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"Don't call me that" her smile faded to a frown "my name's Velvet."</div>
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"So it is" Tommy laughed causing her lips to twitch "Velvet, sugar plum you've got to...." He looked up as a large hand fell across his shoulder. He found himself gazing into the no nonsense eyes of one of Keenan's guards.</div>
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"We have to leave. Now" the man said his words almost obscured by the low grumbling growl.</div>
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Tommy was forcefully pulled away from the beautiful bumble. "Your number" he shouted as he was pulled away from her "I need your number."</div>
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Velvet hurried after him unsure what she should do. The werewolves weren't taking any chances in letting anyone near the two young men she had been conversing with moments before. Her eyes were drawn to the TV as an emergency broadcast cut into the regular program. She gasped in shock as she absorbed the the awful news of the assignation attempt on Keenan's father. Turning in dismay she tried to find Tommy only to find that he and Keenan were gone. Numbly she sat down at their table staring blankly ahead. She hadn't known either boy for long but the place felt empty without their presence.</div>
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"What's happening?" Keenan asked after he had been ushered into the waiting vehicle. </div>
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The men remained silent. Faces revealing little but a foreboding glower. "You will be appraised of the situation once we arrive at the castle," one of the guards said dismissing him.</div>
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"Is my father alright?" Keenan asked voice rising in alarm.</div>
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"You will be apprised of the situation at the castle young sir" the guard informed him.</div>
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Keenan looked down as a firm hand gripped his forearm. Glancing across at Tommy's worried face he frowned. "Do you know what's going on?" he asked.</div>
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"No more than you" Tommy muttered his voice low hoping to keep from attracting any undue attention them. "This isn't good. I've seen my father enough times in circumstances like these to know something bad has happened."</div>
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Digesting that bit of unwelcome information Keenan nodded. The werewolves were on high alert which meant the death threat was no longer just a threat. He leaned his forehead on the cool glass of the window watching the busy streets of Moonlight Falls pass by him. Was his father alive? Was he dead? Would he, an inexperienced eighteen year old be made supreme ruler over Moonlight Falls? He wasn't ready. He didn't know near enough to do the job his father did.</div>
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"Hey it's going to be alright" Tommy said giving his arm a firm shake.</div>
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He knew Tommy meant well. If this was a human world maybe his words would be true. For all he knew his life was about to end. At the very least be changed forever.</div>
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When the car stopped moving he followed the guards inside the castle walls. He and Tommy were escorted into an unfamiliar room. That in itself was ominous. Never had he been in the castle without being brought to his father's office. </div>
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"Wait here" the guard ordered walking away leaving the two young men alone in an empty room.</div>
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A deep growl from behind them forced the newly engaged couple apart. "Excuse our intrusion. You must come with us. Now."</div>
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Kimberly felt Everett tense beside her. "Why?" he demanded putting a protective arm around her shoulders.</div>
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"This is not the place or the time to ask questions" the werewolf said unmoved by the humans belligerence.</div>
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"If you think we're coming with you just because you say so you have another thing coming" Everett tried to go around the man pulling Kimberly along with him.</div>
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"There has been an assignation attempt on the supreme one" the man grumbled clearly disliking providing the information in the open where anyone could hear "for your protection you must come with us."</div>
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Everett turned at the sudden loud gasp beside him. He caught Kimberly as she stumbled falling forward. Lifting her in his arms he followed the werewolves to the waiting car. Stopping he asked "what about my car?"</div>
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"We will send someone back for it" the guard said opening the door for them.</div>
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Resisting the urge to refuse Everett laid Kimberly on the backseat of the heavily armored car. Heart pounding in his chest his mind wandered back to when his parents had been ushered into a car from the castle. It was like the first time. This was how it began. He gasped as the car lurched forward. Cradling Kimberly's head in his lap careful to keep her from falling. He stroked her long soft hair frowning at the chalky whiteness of her complexion hoping the added stress wasn't doing her or the baby any harm. </div>
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Kimberly moaned fighting to sit up "no no no" she cried out fighting off Everett's hands. "This is all wrong" she complained sitting up blinking rapidly "I'm sorry" she mumbled when she became fully aware of her surroundings "I can't reach him. I tried but I can't."</div>
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Wiping the large tears from her face Everett spoke gently "honey you haven't been able to contact Adam since he started wearing that amulet."</div>
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"Oh" she shook her head "I forgot."</div>
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Hugging her close Everett took a deep breath "where are we going?"</div>
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"To the castle" was the curt response.</div>
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"What about our daughter?" Everett asked worried that Phoebe was vulnerable home alone with her great grandmother as her only protection.</div>
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"A car has been sent to the house" one of the men supplied "the esteemed one's wife and great granddaughter are in route to the castle as we speak."</div>
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Everett nodded leaning back in his seat arm around Kimberly. She looked up at him as tremors invaded his body. "Are you alright?" she asked him.</div>
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"I'm fine" he closed his eyes seeking a calm he didn't feel. He hated the idea of going to the castle under these circumstances. It brought back to many unpleasant memories. He looked down as someone took his hand. </div>
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<div>
"It'll be ok" she said looking into his eyes strong and steady "I'm right here. I'm not leaving your side. Not for second."</div>
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***</div>
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Heath looked up from his desk with an insurmountable mountain of paperwork waiting for him to wade through. His office door was flung open by an impressive dour looking werewolf. Heath stood up with a feeling of foreboding heavy in the air around him.</div>
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"You're coming with me" the werewolf snarled.</div>
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"What? Why?" Heath shook his head waving at the paperwork on his desk "as you can see I'm swimming in work. I can't just drop everything to go with you."</div>
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The man's upper lip curled displaying the man's impressive canines "Have you not seen the news?" he snarled.</div>
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<div>
"No. I prefer to work in silence" Heath could feel dread weighing heavily on his chest. He switched on the ancient television set. The loud obnoxious voice of the anchor man filled the room. Standing outside the familiar building of the castle. "Our esteemed ruler has been taken to the infirmary after an attempted assignation. His condition is unknown at this time. Sources from inside the castle inform us the esteemed one's condition is critical. Stay tuned as we keep you up to date with what's happening live at the castle."</div>
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Stunned Heath fell into his chair. Ears ringing he brought his trembling hands to his face "how is he?" Heath asked his voice devoid of emotion. "How is my father?" he demanded of one of his father's trusted guards. </div>
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"Not good" the man said his voice held an undertow of anger "you must come with me. Now."</div>
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Nodding Heath stood on numb wobbly legs. At any moment he felt as if he was about to fall. How could this be happening? His father had always been bigger than life, invincible. Vaguely he was aware of the werewolf giving orders to his staff. The murmured condolences from his secretary and staff. Nodding he went through the motions wondering if he would ever be back in the post he didn't want. Would he still be the guy in charge of Midnight Hollow if his father died? </div>
<div>
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<div>
Would Keenan be the next to sit on the throne? Would this spark the war Serafino was intent on starting? They needed his father's straight, clear headed thinking now more than ever. They couldn't have an inexperienced boy in charge not if they hoped to defeat Serafino. </div>
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Exiting the building Heath said "I need to go by the house..."</div>
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"That won't be necessary" the guard grumbled.</div>
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"I'm not leaving without my family" Heath protested coming to a standstill on the sidewalk.</div>
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"Sir it's unwise to stand in the open like this" the werewolf urged him to move.</div>
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"I'm not going without my family" he repeated a definite stubborn edge in his voice. </div>
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The guard took Heath's arm physically pulling him towards the car "we can discuss this in the vehicle out of the line of fire."</div>
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"Fire?" Heath choked on the word "you don't think I'm in danger do you?"</div>
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"You are the esteemed one's son" the guard gave him a stern stare "what do you think?"</div>
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It was a sobering thought. One that allowed the guard to guide him to the waiting car. A man opened the back door as Heath arrived. He was all but pushed into the vehicle. Righting himself in the backseat he looked up to find the calming light blue eyes of his husband gazing in concern at him. Unable to restrain himself he pulled Don into his arms. "They could have told me you were in here" he said "I was refusing to leave without you."</div>
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"Daddy is grandpa going to die?" Owen interrupted his eyes worried clinging to his older sister.</div>
<div>
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"I don't know," Heath sighed feeling the weight of needing to be calm to help his children cope through this difficult ordeal. "I hope not" he sighed dreading what was to come next.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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As soon as Quinn arrived in her safe haven she could sense something had changed. Something terrible. A blow that could wreck the entire fabric of the dimension</div>
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"You should have let me have him," a malicious voice said behind her.</div>
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"Silver what have you done?" she demanded turning to face the vile creature.</div>
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Shrugging he leaned back on her couch a smile making his lips quiver. "I didn't do anything. If you had let me have him I would have protected him."</div>
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"He's not for you" she repeated hands clenching into fists.</div>
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"So you say" his eyes glittered behind his pale lashes.</div>
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"He's still very much in love with his wife," she told him.</div>
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Glaring at her Silver hissed "I could take care of that obstacle."</div>
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"You will not harm Adam's wife" Quinn snapped.</div>
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"He's bonded to me" Silver stuck his chin out jabbing a finger under her nose.</div>
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"His body. Not his mind is bonded to you," Quinn corrected.</div>
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"I can satisfy him in ways she never can," he continued lost in thought or lust "I remember every inch of his superb body. The way his heart beat in rhythm to my touch. What does she have to offer but a dried out wrinkled husk?"</div>
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Quinn shook her head knowing nothing she said would do any good to dissuade him. Silver would continued to want what he couldn't have.</div>
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"He's a young virile vampire. In the prime of his life," Silver continued eyes clouded and hazy "he needs someone like me by his side."</div>
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"He isn't yours" Quinn repeated as if she hoped this time she'd reach him with her words.</div>
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"What good is he to you if he's dead?" he asked "seal the bond. Make him mine for all of eternity."</div>
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"If I don't? she asked.</div>
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"Watch your precious dimension crumble around your ears" he took a step forward "you know I can save him. Give him to me. Save your dimension. I'll never bother you again."</div>
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<div>
She could do as he wished. He could save Adam's life where she couldn't directly step in and do it herself. Saving Adam's life would balance the teetering forces cascading into chaos. She had seen the future without Adam's influence. Without him the virus leading to horrible future mutations would be released. </div>
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Silver gave her a knowing smile. He had her over a barrel and she knew it. She needed Adam to save the future. The dimension. Adam would be his. He could smell the sweet scent of victory.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-49444383337484336152017-01-21T21:25:00.001-06:002017-01-21T21:25:37.972-06:004.23 So It Begins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Walking into the club Keenan glanced around the interior. It looked like a rundown arcade with the addition of a bar in the corner for the older clientele. It was rather desolate except for a couple of girls near their own age sitting at a table. He groaned inwardly as Tommy strode confidently up to the girl's table. He followed a step or two behind.<br />
<br />
"Hey Ladies," Tommy greeted them with his best ingratiating grin "what brings you two lovelies out on a night like this?"<br />
<br />
"Obviously we wanted to be left alone" the bumble faerie said in a somewhat hostile tone.<br />
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"Don't be like that" her companion said with a smile directed at both boys. Her eyes brightening as they came to rest on Keenan. She gave him a wink before turning her attention to Tommy. Leaving Keenan slightly flushed "we came for some fun. Looks like we may have found it."<br />
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"Don't encourage him" the bumble muttered glaring at her green skinned companion.<br />
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"Why not?"she demanded "they seem nice." </div>
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Sitting down Tommy winked at the girls motioning for Keenan to join them "we are nice sugar."</div>
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The bumble tensed as she moved to leave. Standing she bumped into Keenan. "Watch it" she growled pulling back as he reached out to steady her.</div>
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"Sorry" he mumbled looking away dropping his hands. He took a step back to allow the girl to pass him.</div>
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Some of her anger dissipated confronted by the meek stance of the boy in front of her "no I'm sorry..."</div>
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"Don't mind my cousin" Keenan said "he's new here...."</div>
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"He's human" the girl added as if that explained everything. Turning she watched the irritating boy deep in conversation with the elf.</div>
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"Yeah he doesn't know much about supernaturals," Keenan explained "give him a chance. He can be nice once you get to know him."</div>
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"You're a vampire," the faerie observed with interest.</div>
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Nodding Keenan squirmed under her scrutiny. Tommy glanced up with a smirk "he's not just a vampire. He's the vampire in charge."</div>
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A low combined rumble filled the room as Keenan's bodyguard tensed for action. The girls eyed the large displeased werewolves warily "you're the heir. The prince," the bumble mumbled in a low weak voice as she dropped to her knees shivering in his presence.</div>
<div>
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"What are you doing?" Keenan asked appalled that the girl was on her knees at his feet. "Get up," he pleaded looking around hoping no one was watching "please get up" he repeated.</div>
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<div>
"I meant no disrespect" the girl said gathering her feet beneath her "I've heard stories about a great powerful vampire king who brought peace to Moonlight Falls." Her eyes if anything grew larger "that must be why humans have been allowed here. I had heard many stories about them but I always believed humans were a myth. Created to scare children into behaving."</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
"Well sugar I'm not...."</div>
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<div>
"Don't call me that" she interrupted stomping her foot forgetting entirely in whose presence she was </div>
<div>
in.</div>
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"Why? Sugar is an endearing nickname" Tommy glanced from his cousin to the irate girl "I meant no disrespect."</div>
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<div>
"He doesn't understand" Keenan attempted to smooth things over.</div>
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<div>
"He should have some manners if he expects to stay here," she pointed out glaring at Tommy.</div>
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<div>
"I'm sorry" he said contritely. Standing Tommy walked around the table holding his hand out "I'm Tommy" he said introducing himself.</div>
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Keenan shook his head trying not to laugh as the bumble silently glared at his cousin. The strain was too much and the pressure to laugh came out as a strangled snort. "Sorry" he mumbled as he felt everyone staring at him.</div>
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Hesitantly the faerie took the humans hand. A gesture both awkward and invigorating "I'm Velvet."</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Heath was pushing papers around his desk trying to come up with some sort of system to take care of everyones concerns and complaints. He'd come up with several piles marked urgent take care of immediately. Important must be done within a few weeks. Serious but can wait. Neutral take care of when feasible. Not the best system. It would have to do until he sorted through everything.</div>
<div>
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<div>
He glanced up rubbing his eyes as someone knocked on his office door. A man was escorted inside. Heath smiled recognizing him "Jeff I'm so glad you were able to come."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shaking hands Jeff sat down "it sounded urgent."</div>
<div>
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"And you were hoping you'd have time to see your son before you got started" Heath gave him a knowing grin "I'd do the same thing if I were you."</div>
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"Have you seen Tommy?" Jeff asked eager to hear news of his boy.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He's rooming with my baby brother Keenan" Heath said "they're doing fine. Plus he's under constant guard so you don't have to worry about him getting into trouble."</div>
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"I'm his dad. Worry comes with the territory" Jeff chuckled a little relieved that his son was doing ok.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqhVFj3n-aHZvbARMc4We_fZ_xMAUrJvmGup0bos30IqJc1rAC4uopG3aBcXMvS2vO_n41rA2s2xCipmsuyrsCKosdVPverfYOv-mbxg2jGVe2DbBT97xlcKFpt37SEwYuVXW82o2pc_A/s1600/Screenshot-1143.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGqhVFj3n-aHZvbARMc4We_fZ_xMAUrJvmGup0bos30IqJc1rAC4uopG3aBcXMvS2vO_n41rA2s2xCipmsuyrsCKosdVPverfYOv-mbxg2jGVe2DbBT97xlcKFpt37SEwYuVXW82o2pc_A/s640/Screenshot-1143.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"Don't I know it. I have two grown up daughters, a couple of teenagers and a five year old," Heath smiled fondly looking at the family photo on his desk "you never stop worrying."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What do I need to know about Mr. Lawrence?" Jeff asked getting down to business.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heath handed him a large over stuffed file, "sorry the IF's aren't exactly into the computer age yet."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Thumbing through the large file Jeff sighed at the daunting task of reading through it. The sheer weight of the file seemed to predict how difficult the task was going to be. "Any suggestions where I should start?" he asked laying the folder aside for now.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'd start in Isla Paradiso. That's where all his resorts and warehouses are" Heath suggested "if he holds true to form he's probably still running them under an alias or something."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What do you want me to do when I locate him" he asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Once you locate him contact me. I'll send a delegate of IF's to apprehend him to bring him Midnight Hollow to face trial for his crimes." Heath got up walking around his desk "Mr Lawrence is a terrible person."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18Qxpk68FfujnCOVH0GH91ucThyphenhyphenMY3fSydr0kILQOdeAzaEhUxqoCxMS8Lsh_vNAcFLkfX32b-64CdA-BD15b0fC0k0X-rMLAwTHAWDbkBaA_j65dtFCC-u0Fq_voD3f1TDp1TR-iOtKs/s1600/Screenshot-1144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg18Qxpk68FfujnCOVH0GH91ucThyphenhyphenMY3fSydr0kILQOdeAzaEhUxqoCxMS8Lsh_vNAcFLkfX32b-64CdA-BD15b0fC0k0X-rMLAwTHAWDbkBaA_j65dtFCC-u0Fq_voD3f1TDp1TR-iOtKs/s640/Screenshot-1144.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"I'll check with the local PD to see what his human persona has in the system" Jeff rubbed his chin deep in thought "I'll call it research for the family since by human life spans he should be dead by now."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Or very freakin old" Heath shook his head "which is why he was adamant that Kyle take over running the family business."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Standing Jeff nodded towards Heath "I'll drop in to see my son then catch the earliest flight to Isla Paradiso."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Let me know what I can do to help," Heath said following him outside.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I could use a partner" Jeff said "someone to help with all the leg work."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Well one day I'm sure you'll find someone," Heath assured him.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I hope so" he waved as he walked away.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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It was a rare treat for them to have a few hours to themselves. Everett insisted they do something different just the two of them. Leaving Phoebe with her great grandmother Kimberly allowed Everett to blind fold her and lead her from the house. "Where are we going?" she asked clutching his hand.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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"Not far," he assured her starting the car. He drove to the little beach he had found on one of his explorations of Moonlight Falls. Not many people were there making it perfect for what he had planned.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
Leaning over he removed the blind fold. Kimberly blinked up at him then at the scenery around them. "It's beautiful" she gasped as he got out of the car and ran across the car to help her out.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Taking her hand Everett walked with her to the water's edge. Kneeling in the damp sand he gazed up at her. "You've had my heart since the moment I saw you. I put on a gruff crusty facade intended to keep you and everyone else away. You looked beyond that to the man beneath. I never wanted to be vulnerable again yet with you I am weak."</div>
<div>
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<div>
She knelt in the sand beside him. She brought her hands up to stroke his face "you are not weak. You're one of the strongest men I know. You left everything you knew to be with me."</div>
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Taking her hand he gently kissed the palm "I love you so much it hurts. I never want to be without you. I want to walk this world with you by my side now, forever and always." He could see the tears shimmering in her eyes. He felt her soft gentle touch as she wiped the tears from his cheeks. Their eyes locked breathing rapidly he asked "will you marry me?" He held his breath feeling as if the world had stopped waiting for her answer.</div>
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<div>
"Yes" she said so softly he almost didn't hear her. "Yes yes yes I'll marry you," she shouted joyfully setting the world to spinning again. He pulled her close smashing his mouth on hers. Kissing with a need, a passion, a love they both shared.</div>
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When they came up for air they were lying in the cool damp sand of the beach. Laughing Everett attempted to brush the sand from her long brown hair. </div>
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<div>
She bit her lip looking up at him through her long lashes "we have one problem" she said biting her bottom lip. She watched as his smile faded and a profound sadness spread across his handsome face. "We either have to get married now. Like right away or wait. At least a year or two."</div>
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He blinked unsure of what he just heard "you still want to marry me?"</div>
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"Of course" she put a hand on her stomach "the problem we have is right here." She took her other hand to grab Everett's hand to cover her hand on top of her stomach.</div>
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"You're pregnant" he choked barely getting the words out.</div>
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Nodding she watched as his face transformed again "this is your future. Your legacy. The family we create together."</div>
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"I love you so much" he murmured pulling her close "I don't want to wait another year to make you mine."</div>
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<div>
"I don't need to be married to know I'm yours and your mine" she kissed his nose "whether we're married or not we belong to each other forever and ever." She entwined her fingers with his "I love you Everett Gray."</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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Quinn stayed longer then she planned or expected with Phoenix and the twins. She didn't want to return home. Back to her own dimension where she would have to be alone. She envied Phoenix the playful chatter of the kids.</div>
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"It's not all fun and games" his voice interrupted her thoughts "I worry each time I leave them to tend to something in the dimension."</div>
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"You need a babysitter" she fretted.</div>
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"I have one" Phoenix assured her "it just hasn't been activated since you've been here."</div>
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"Activated" she asked.</div>
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"It's a simbot from Oasis Landing made to care for children" he explained "I couldn't bring someone here into safe haven to care for them. The fewer people who know of their existence the better."</div>
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<div>
She nodded in understanding. His dimension knew nothing of male pregnancy. She approved of his precautions. She sat on the floor reading to the kids. She still couldn't wrap her mind around the idea that she was a mother. Her. The one who wasn't ever supposed to have children. For that fact alone she couldn't have them in her dimension at least not openly acknowledge them as her children. She couldn't give the Elysians anything to use against her. She gasped eyes becoming large and wide with alarm.</div>
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<div>
"What's wrong?" Phoenix asked watching as the blood drained from her face.</div>
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"Silver" she whispered the hated name "Silver knows of their existence."</div>
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"That's not good" Phoenix echoed her feelings.</div>
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"No it's not. It's awful" she stood up "I need to leave."</div>
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<div>
Before she could go Phoenix grabbed her "tell me what's the danger. Are the twins in danger?" He shook her slightly in his urgency "tell me".</div>
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<div>
"Yes" she cried "Silver will use them to get what he wants. He could tell my enemies of their existence. They could force me to work on their fertility issues."</div>
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"Isn't that what you're known for?" he asked confusion written on his face and voice.</div>
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<div>
"It is but it's also what caused me to become the dimension watcher" she sighed knowing it was time she told him everything. It took several hours to explain it all. In the end he sat in silence staring at the kids quietly playing together. Quinn stirred beside him taking his silence as rejection she stood "I should leave."</div>
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"Don't go" he cried when her back was towards him "not like this. I'm sorry I never knew anyone who had been punished by the council before. I come from a people who volunteer to help them out. They need a watcher someone volunteers for a set time period. I'll confess this scares me a lot." He got up and took her in his arms "but am I any better? I broke the rules the moment I fell in love with you. The moment I took you in my bed." Gently he kissed her squeezing her tight.</div>
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She clung to him needing someones strength to rely on other than her own "I only wanted to help. I made everything so much worse."</div>
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<div>
"You're not alone now. We'll get through this together" he ran his fingers through her hair "we'll have to be cautious. We'll get through this. I'll help you as much as I can."</div>
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"All right" she sniffed taking a step back "I have to go. I've been away too long."</div>
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"I know," he sighed staring at her as if he'd never see her again.</div>
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"Erix" his wife called his name "we've found a Wandler."</div>
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<div>
"Where is it?" Erix asked looking around the room in eager anticipation.</div>
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"It has already been dispatched" she advised him "I thought it more important it got started terrorizing the child then wasting time meeting with you."</div>
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Anger flashed in his pale purple eyes "I do not like having my wishes ignored even by you."</div>
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"Forgive me" she was quick to bow in deference to his authority "I overstepped by bounds. It was only my excitement in finding a Wandler that prompted my rash decision."</div>
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"You're forgiven" he said with a stiff lipped smile "don't let it happen again. I won't be so forgiving next time."</div>
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"Understood" she said eyes wary "the Wandler will report once she's in place."</div>
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"Good good" Erix nodded a tinge of guilt knifing it's way through his consciousness. The guilt that told him what he was doing was wrong. Wrong to delight in the torment of an innocent child in their quest to have their own children. He understood the wrong of it. If it were him watching his child suffer he would not want to help the tormentors. He knew what he was doing was wrong. What other choice did he have?</div>
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The Wandler silently surveyed the toys in the room of the sleeping child. Which toy was favored by the girl? Then she saw it. A rag doll hugged tight to the girls chest. Smiling the wandler vanished becoming one with the stuffed lifeless doll. She felt the comforting weight of the child's warm body hugging it's new form tight. Tonight it would enjoy the simple comfort of sleeping with the child. Getting a feel of the child's' dreams, her nightmares. When the child woke the games would begin. A hint of a smile etched itself across the dolls expressionless face. The Wandler could hardly wait to begin. It had been much too long since it had the pleasure of terrorizing a child. This was going to be fun.</div>
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***</div>
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"This is not a good idea," his senior guard protested upon hearing that Adam intended to visit the school upon request of the first grade class. "If you they wish an audience with the esteemed one they can come here."</div>
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"They're children," Adam chuckled "what harm could it possibly make to speak to their class?"</div>
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"It's not the children that concern me," the man grumbled "it's the vulnerable areas where it would be easy to attack. I would not put it past Serafino to have arranged this expedition in the hopes of attacking you."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I have already given my word," Adam said refusing to back down "what do you suggest I do?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The werewolf thought a moment before making the following suggestion "a field trip sir."</div>
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<div>
That almost brought a smile to Adam's face "there's merit to your suggestion. Children love field trips." Rubbing his chin Adam nodded liking the idea more the longer he considered it "make the arrangements" he said turning to his assistant.</div>
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"Yes sir" the man said stepping forward and walking away to do as he was ordered.</div>
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A loud commotion had the senior guard throwing Adam behind him as a group of young vampires rushed through the door. A strange almost hypnotic glow in their eyes as they charged past the werewolves dropping several with what appeared to be silver bullets.</div>
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Although caught off guard by the attack and several of their members lay wounded or dead. The senior guard fought to protect his superior. A shot rang out deafening everyone nearby. The guard went down clutching his left arm to his side.</div>
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<div>
Adam charged the young vampire pointing the gun. A look of fear and recognition brightened his dazed eyes for a moment. A searing pain in Adam's chest brought him to his knees as the boy twisted a wooden stake through him. Dimly he was aware of shouts from several more guards rushing into the room subduing the young vampires.</div>
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Adam felt the cool clammy wetness as his own blood leaked from his wound. His heart beat painfully in his chest as one of his trusted guards lifted him and carried him to safety. His head lolled back on the heavily muscled shoulder. He could feel his life force slowly ebbing away. His final thought was for his young son who was ill equipped to take his place on the throne.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-19547819640004491502017-01-14T22:26:00.000-06:002017-01-14T22:26:51.297-06:004.22 Calm Before The Storm<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Erix sat across from his mate. He would do anything to make her smile. Unfortunately the only thing that would make that happen seemed to be impossible. A child. Their child. It had been millennia since any Elysian had been able to have a child. Immortality had become an intolerable torment. If only there was a way to coerce the dimension watcher into helping them.<br />
<br />
He looked up eyes connecting with his mates "I would do anything to see you smile."<br />
<br />
"Let me follow her" his wife requested.<br />
<br />
"What good would that do?" he asked.<br />
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"I don't know," Saria's frustration was clear in her voice and the way she paced the floor instead of sitting "maybe she will lead us to the child."<br />
<br />
"If Silver is to be believed" Erix pointed out.<br />
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She stopped her aimless pacing "you don't believe him?"<br />
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"No I don't" he sighed "that creature has lied to us one too many times. I do not intend to follow him blindly again."<br />
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Throwing herself into a chair with a dejected air she moaned "then what can we do? Quinn's our only hope to achieve our goal."<br />
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Tapping his fingers thoughtfully on the table. Erix let his mind wander. He needed a way to keep tabs on the watcher. Something she wouldn't suspect. "What's the name of the family that keeps thwarting us?" he asked the beginnings of an idea germinating in his brain.<br />
<br />
"Van Winkle" she almost choked on the name. They had been instrumental in over throwing their bid for control over Oasis Landing. Always meddling in their business. "Peter Van Winkle has made great strides in male pregnancy in humans. Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" she asked turning towards her mate.<br />
<br />
"I am" he gave her a predatory smile "we need to somehow get inside that family."<br />
<br />
"They won't accept IF dolls not after that fiasco with Windy," the woman pointed out.<br />
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"The IF's are no longer reliable allies since Adam took over Moonlight Falls" Erix said "but we could do something similar."<br />
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"Similar" she asked confused.<br />
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"I need a Wandler" he announced "one that can take the form of any object."<br />
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"There's not many of them left. A wandler can only attache itself to the very young or the very vulnerable. Most have moved on to other worlds," his wife mused aloud.<br />
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"All we need is one" he gave her a look full of glee and anticipation "if memory serves me right Wandlers delight in scaring children. Turning their dreams into nightmares."<br />
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A genuine smile spread across the woman's face "I'll start searching for one right away."<br />
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"Good" Erix nodded "preferably we find one that is unusually cruel. That way we can entice Peter into doing whatever we say to keep his family safe."<br />
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She stood giving her husband a kiss "I always knew you were an evil genius."<br />
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***</div>
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Phoenix glared at his unexpected visitor. Arms crossed he felt his heart hammer inside his chest.<br />
"Why are you here?" he demanded his voice full of anger. He could feel all the repressed feelings he had for his visitor. How they had betrayed him, left him to fend for himself, alone and scared.<br />
<br />
"I'm sorry" his visitor said speaking softly "I didn't know."<br />
<br />
"Didn't know" he shouted "how couldn't you know?"<br />
<br />
"It's never happened before" she stammered taken aback by his anger "if I had known do you think I would have kept it from you? I would have warned you. I would have kept things from getting physical between us."<br />
<br />
"So I'm not capable of self-restraint?" Phoenix thundered.<br />
<br />
"That's not what I meant" she took a step forward "please forgive me. I should have come sooner. I should have been here to help you."<br />
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"Why weren't you?" he asked "I called for you for months. All my entreaties went unanswered. Did I mean so little to you that I was so easily forgotten?"<br />
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<br />
"No" Quinn cried "it's because I loved you that I refused to answer your requests. It was the hardest thing I've ever had to do." She took a step forward stopping within arms length of him "I've thought about you everyday. I thought about how the changes I was making would keep our dimensions safe. I never wanted to hurt you."<br />
<br />
Taking a couple of steps forward Phoenix drew her close to him. Her head resting on his chest "I'm sorry. I should have known better."<br />
<br />
"Yes you should have" she agreed stepping away from him. Wiping her eyes frowning at the wetness that prevented her from denying her true feelings.<br />
<br />
"What do we do now?" Phoenix asked worry replacing his anger "I can't hide the kids forever."<br />
<br />
"We'll deal with that when and if the council ever comes. In the mean time we do everything we can to keep your dimension in balance." She strode away from him to gaze out the window. His safe haven was small but functional while hers was sparsely decorated. She couldn't help but smile at the contrast their havens made to Audric's mansion. His haven always made her feel somewhat uncomfortable. The time and resources spent on that could have been spent on the dimension he was supposed to be watching.<br />
<br />
"Do you want to see them?" Phoenix asked.<br />
<br />
Fear pumped through her veins at the thought of seining her children for the first time. "I..I don't know" she stammered afraid once she saw them she wouldn't want to leave them.<br />
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Taking her hand he dragged her towards a hidden door. "I don't know if this will prevent the council from finding them but I thought it couldn't hurt to take precautions."<br />
<br />
She walked into the room to find a little boy and girl playing on the floor. Their happy chatter and giggles lifted her spirits, lightened her heart. "Hi" she waggled her fingers at them as they stared wide eyed up at her.<br />
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"Whose that?" the boy asked pointing.<br />
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"She's pretty" the girl added.<br />
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"Kids" Phoenix said kneeling beside them "this beautiful lady is your mom."<br />
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"Mommy" the girl cried running to her.<br />
<br />
Quinn patted the fiery red hair of the little girl that was squeezing her knee caps off. The boy stood staring, hands on hips "we don't need another girl" he announced.<br />
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"Sure we do" Phoenix said with an amused grin "there's always room for more girls." The boy shook his head unhappy with the change in his world "why don't you say hello. She won't bite."</div>
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"You sure?" the boy asked gazing up at his dad's face for confirmation.</div>
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"I'm positive" Phoenix gave the boy an encouraging smile pushing him forward.</div>
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"Hi" the boy said with a shy smile "are you really our mom?"</div>
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"Yes I am" Quinn said kneeling down to talk to him. The little girl crawled into her lap. "We can visit you?" she asked.</div>
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Looking up Quinn turned to Phoenix silently asking for his help. "I don't know princess. Maybe when you're older" he said.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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"Daddy" Phoebe shouted running across the hard slippery wood floor. "Daddy" she cried again arms flailing as she tumbled to the floor.</div>
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Racing to his daughter's side Everett picked the little girl up into his arms. Heart pounding as he inspected her for injuries.</div>
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"Daddy" she giggled throwing her arms around his neck.</div>
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"Phoebe" he laughed squeezing her squirming little body to him.</div>
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"Daddy let go" she giggled as his beard scratched her cheek "stop daddy."</div>
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"Stop what" he laughed rubbing his chin on her cheek.</div>
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Everett put the little girl down and watched her run careening off the wall in her ungainly way. Shaking his head he glanced up to find Kimberly watching him. "Hello beautiful" he said strutting up to her.</div>
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Kimberly sighed as his arms embraced her. Resting her head on his chest breathing deeply "Phoebe couldn't wait for you to come home," she said looking up at him.</div>
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"I could tell" he said kissing her nose "I love being greeted by that bundle of energy."</div>
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"I imagine she was just like you when you were that age" Kimberly said stroking his whiskered cheeks "what's wrong?" she asked seeing the clouded hurt expression in his strong gray eyes.</div>
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"It's nothing" he mumbled turning away.</div>
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"Everett don't walk away" Kimberly implored him "tell me what's wrong? What did I say?"</div>
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Sighing he turned drawing Kimberly close to him "it's not you. It's me." He blinked several times as a tick in his jaw went into overdrive "I don't know if I was like that when I was Phoebe's age. There's no one left to ask."</div>
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"That was so thoughtless of me" she leaned up to place a kiss on his lips "It's so easy for me having so much of my family around all the time."</div>
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Nodding he gazed intently into her eyes "sometimes it's overwhelming. Don't get me wrong I'm glad our daughter will have such a rich family history but what do I have to offer her?"</div>
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<div>
"Oh honey" she gently brought his head down to rest on her forehead "just because your family isn't here doesn't make your history any less important than mine. I'm very grateful to your parents. Without their sacrifice there would be no you. No you no us. No us no Phoebe."</div>
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Resting his forehead on hers Everett closed his eyes. He always wondered why his parents had sacrificed their lives for him. It was him who had led his girlfriend to them. It was him she had used to betray them. He could still hear his mother's voice telling him he was destined for great things. That he would have to travel great distances to meet his true love. He couldn't imagine going farther than another dimension. Had his mother known what his future would be? If she had their sacrifice made so much more sense. "Thank you" he murmured burying his face in her hair.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Serafino stood outside the castle walls glaring at the werewolves barring his entrance to the interior. He stepped forward upon seeing Adam emerge accompanied by his father Peter. His nose curled in disgust catching the scent of human stench. Some vampires enjoyed the smell of humans, dined on them regularly. Serafino wasn't one of them. The thought made his blood boil. He preferred his carefully selected witches blood. Adam he knew had never tasted blood, even his son a born vampire had never tasted blood. Their example had inspired several others to become what they liked to call vegetarians.</div>
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Weak minded individuals that thought this mongrel ruler was special. He couldn't wait to rid Moonlight Falls of this mongrel and all who followed him. He smirked imagining decorating the city center with their heads upon stakes. That would be a glorious day Serafino thought until then he had to pretend to cower before this mongrel.</div>
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"My lord" he said bowing low "a minute of your time."</div>
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"Now is not a good time" Adam said walking past him "make an appointment with my secretary."</div>
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"I need to see you now," Serafino growled.</div>
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Adam's eyes narrowed at the man's insolence. He stopped despite the disapproval of his armed guards Peter leaned in close whispering "this isn't a good idea. He means trouble."</div>
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Silently nodding Adam addressed Serafino who stood with an expectant look on his face. One that said he had gotten his way and delayed the ruler from his chosen course. The one that said I am important and you are not. Turning his back on the arrogant insufferable vampire Adam said "make an appointment and clear it with my guards."</div>
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Serafino rushed forward eyes glossed over "I will be treated with respect".</div>
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Moving quickly the guard closed in around Adam preventing the ancient vampire from touching Adam. With a grunt of pain Serafino struggled within their grasp. "I see you've trained your dogs well" Serafino snapped his intelligent eyes glowing.</div>
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Ignoring him Adam let his guard handle the situation. He didn't speak about the incident until they reached his home. After being greeted by his wife and hugging his granddaughters Adam inclined his head towards Peter a silent request for him to follow him.</div>
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Closing the door behind him Peter asked "what do you think Serafino was trying to accomplish?"</div>
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"Besides being an ass?" Adam asked "I think he was testing my guards reaction to a threat to me."</div>
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Nodding Peter rubbed his chin "I got that impression as well."</div>
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"He wants my head" Adam said more to himself then to anyone else "why?"</div>
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"He wants to be in power" Peter supplied "he was in a position of power while you and Keenan were missing. He doesn't want to lose that control."</div>
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"Which means if he manages to get rid of me he'll go after Keenan next," Adam could feel his anxiety rising. The days he'd run were over. Too many people depended on him. He had no choice but to face this new threat head on.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Keenan stood staring at his assortment of clothes rejecting each one as being too boring. He glanced over at his cousin envious of his easy manner and ability to fit in. "I have nothing to wear" he complained slamming the door shut.</div>
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Looking up from his phone Tommy glanced at Keenan "what's wrong with what you've got on?"</div>
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Looking down picking at his sleeves Keenan asked "isn't it, I don't know kind of nerdy?"</div>
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Shrugging Tommy went back to the game he was playing "not if that's your style. Besides it's more your attitude then the clothes you wear."</div>
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"What about the saying it's the clothes that make the man?" Keenan asked.</div>
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"That's kind of simplistic" he said shutting the game down "take the clothes away and we're all the same. All the same accept for our personalities."</div>
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Rolling his eyes Keenan groaned "I wish you weren't so philosophical. I just want to look good."</div>
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<div>
Standing up Tommy walked towards his cousin "just calm down and have fun. If you're having fun it won't matter what you look like."</div>
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<div>
"Sounds easy enough," Keenan muttered "except the calm down part. I'm no good at that."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"No you're more the die of a heart attack type of guy," Tommy laughed at the horrified look Keenan gave him "stick with me kid and I'll have you relaxed in no time."</div>
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<div>
"So where are we going?" Keenan asked giving up the idea of changing his look for one night out.</div>
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"Well I thought we'd try this new club I found" Tommy said "we can't get into any of the really nice nightclubs because we're not old enough."</div>
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"I've never heard of the place," Keenan said glancing through the flyer Tommy handed him.</div>
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"Not surprised" Tommy laughed "you don't go out much. Any chance we can ditch the body guards?"</div>
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<div>
Shaking his head Keenan could feel his anxiety sky rocketing at the mere thought of going out without them. "No absolutely not" he stammered in response "dad already has a death threat out on him. By extension that applies to me too."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Ok ok don't get your panties in a twist" Tommy chuckled "I didn't really think you would. I've been around enough to know when someone has a bodyguard there's a reason why."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"So you just wanted to see what my reaction would be?" Keenan asked. He never knew if he should take his cousin seriously or not "you never did tell me why you came to Moonlight Falls."</div>
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Shrugging Tommy looked out the window "Call it good old fashioned curiosity."</div>
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Groaning Keenan tossed a pillow at him "that's not a reason. You've been evading the question for weeks, why?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Tommy got a far away expression on his face before he replied "I guess I'm here to prove a point. I've read about Moonlight Falls and supernaturals all my life. I've heard about my Great Uncle Adam and how he was turned into a vampire. It just fueled my curiosity. I wanted to see it for myself. Mom said I was crazy to believe that such things exist. That I should just grow up."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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Sighing he moved around the room restlessly "she sucked the life out of dad and she was doing the same to me." He stopped abruptly turning to Keenan "don't get me wrong I love my mom but she's not very understanding about things she could care less about. She likes to be in control. I don't like to be controlled. I chafed under her rules. So I left. Came here. I wanted to do research for a book I'm writing. All the things mom said would be a waste of time."</div>
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<div>
"She sounds awful" Keenan couldn't help but say "I can't imagine my parents being like that."</div>
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"It's what it is" he shrugged "my dad is cool though. That might be why mom always liked it when he was gone because us kids always gravitated towards him when he was home."</div>
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***</div>
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Heath sighed it was good to be home. He didn't know how his father did it. Running a town was a lot of hard work. All the complaints, the demands and disgruntled people. He kept telling himself it had only been a month. Things would get better he hoped.</div>
<div>
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<div>
He found Don in the kitchen making supper. He put his arms around him as he was chopping vegetables for dinner. Kissing his stubbly cheeks he asked "how was your day?"</div>
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<div>
Setting the knife down Don turned in Heath's arms. Putting his arms around his neck he captured Heath's lips with a passionate kiss "I've missed you" he said.</div>
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"I missed you too" Heath nuzzled into him breathing deeply "smells good. What's for dinner?"</div>
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"Your favorite" Don said "macaroni and cheese." He laughed at the scrunched up look of disgust on his Heath's face "I'm joking. It's lasagna."</div>
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"Anything I can do to help?" Heath asked reluctantly letting his husband go.</div>
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"Nope" Don said "just sit there and look pretty."</div>
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"Well that's a pretty hard job to do. Not everyone can do it" Heath said with a smile. It felt good to joke around with his husband. There was a time he didn't think he'd ever see Don again. He didn't want to waste time arguing when he could be enjoying what he had.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Anything new happen today at work?" Don asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heath could hear the curiosity in his husband's voice. Don found IF's more interesting then he did. That was the only bad thing about the move to Midnight Hollow. Being in close contact with other IF's. His children had to go to school with them. This would become normal to them. He ran a hand through his blue hair "there's something that came up today that you may not like."</div>
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Don set his knife aside with a loud clatter on the counter "what's wrong?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
Heath could hear the fear and anxiety in Don's voice. He moved to ease some of the tension from his shoulders. Kneading Don's shoulder's Heath explained "there's a complaint against Kyle's father. The </div>
<div>
IF's want him brought to justice for his crimes. I've sent a request to your cousin Jeff to see if he can locate him. Once he's found I'll send a delegate of IF's to bring him back."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Do you think it's wise to use a human to look for him?" Don asked.</div>
<div>
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"It may be the only thing he won't expect" Heath said "I'll ask Kyle to watch out for him."</div>
<div>
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"I hope you find him" Don said picking up his knife to continue chopping the vegetables "it's about time he was brought to justice."</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-84664610184884257922017-01-04T06:50:00.000-06:002017-01-04T06:50:10.943-06:004.21 A New Threat <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Quinn entered the room expecting to see more Elysians to be present at the meeting. "Let's make this quick," she said walking towards the couple standing by a long conference table "I have important business to attend to."<br />
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The purple male frowned in response to her announcement. His female counterpart stepped forward blocking Quinn's advancement towards the table. "How dare you imply this meeting is a waste of your precious time," blue skinned woman growled.<br />
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Quinn eyed the woman with distaste "I didn't imply anything. I believe I said it." She tossed her hair over her shoulder as if to dismiss the girl. Turning her attention wholly on the male she repeated "I'm a busy person. State your business before I lose my patience."<br />
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"Our business is the same as it has always been" he snapped crossing his arms.<br />
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"Then you're wasting my time," she turned to find her exit blocked by the girl "out of my way," she ordered.<br />
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"Not until you've listened to our demands."<br />
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"Demands?" Quinn asked incredulity in her voice "you ask for the impossible."<br />
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"It's not impossible" the woman spat at her "Silver is proof it's not impossible."</div>
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"Don't bring that vile creature into this," Quinn hissed "he's the epitome of why this is impossible."</div>
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"You don't know that," the woman retorted "how do you know the next won't be better?"</div>
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"How do I know the next won't be worse?" Quinn asked unmoved by the girls argument or the man's silence.</div>
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"We want children" the woman cried giving way to tears "our own children."</div>
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"Don't you think I want the same?" Quinn asked her voice rising "I tried to help you once. I failed."</div>
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"Look at us," the man all but shouted "we have the appearance of youthful vigor but we're both millions of years old."</div>
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"Our reproductive powers were take from us," the woman wailed "stolen without our consent."</div>
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Shaking her head Quinn's eyes narrowed "you agreed in exchange for immortality. It was my mistake to interfere."</div>
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"It was nothing more than a punishment. Having to raise someone else's children while never being able to have our own." The man shook his fist in the air in front of Quinn's face "can't you see our torment?"</div>
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<div>
Quinn put her hands over her ears. She had heard this hundreds of times before. The argument hadn't changed. The IF's were made as a direct result of the Elysian's quest to reproduce. Was it wrong? Quinn couldn't find it within her to blame them. It was what motivated her to try and help them once "I'm sorry I failed."</div>
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"All we're asking is for you to try again" the man implored.</div>
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"You're in charge of fertility...." the woman pointed out.</div>
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"I was in charge" Quinn shouted losing her temper trapped between what she should do and what she could do "I can't help you. I can't even help myself. I'm as barren as you are."</div>
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***</div>
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Heath stopped packing to stare out the window at the familiar view. In the few short years since they had come to Moonlight Falls it had become home to him.</div>
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"Honey what is it?" Don asked moving up beside him.</div>
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Heath turned shaking his head. He felt Don's arms slip comfortingly around him "I'm worried...no I'm afraid...."</div>
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"Of what?" Don asked "of moving to Midnight Hollow? You can do this. Your Dad wouldn't have asked this of you if you couldn't do it."</div>
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"Everyone has so much confidence in me," Heath mumbled "what if I make a mistake?"</div>
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"Honey everyone makes mistakes even those in charge," Don gently pulled his husband close "the trick is what we do after we make the mistake." He looked into his husbands troubled blue eyes "I have a feeling there's more to this then fear of making mistakes."</div>
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Heath moved away rubbing his hands up and down his arms "my only experience with IF's haven't been exactly good."</div>
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"Your mother and Mr Lawrence" Don supplied the names watching as Heath nodded unhappily "you can't let them hold you back."</div>
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"What if..." Heath's voice drifted away. It was an old fear. One he had since he was a young child.</div>
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"Life is full of what ifs" Don took Heath's hand in his "all IF's aren't the same. They're different. You're Uncle Kyle is an example of that. He's as different from his dad as summer is to winter."</div>
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"I know" Heath sighed "what if I..." he couldn't say it. It was to horrible to contemplate.</div>
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"Are you afraid you'll become like your mother?" Don asked "you know you have nothing to worry about right? Kyle hasn't turned into his father so you won't become your mother. It's an </div>
<div>
impossibility."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Thank you" Heath murmured leaning into Don "I needed to hear that."</div>
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"That's what I'm here for," Don squeezed him tight.</div>
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***</div>
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Kimberly listened to the hushed sounds of her parents moving around in their room. She knew how upset her dad was about taking a leadership role among people he didn't understand or trust. She sent a comforting thought to him with her mind. She felt his turmoil mix with relief "daddy I love you ."</div>
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<div>
"Don't worry about me sweet heart" he said to her. She could hear him chuckle inside her head "love you to baby girl."</div>
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Kimberly turned to find Everett watching her with Phoebe snuggled in his arms. "I'm never going to get used to that" he said giving her cheek a quick peck.</div>
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<div>
"Used to what?" she asked taking Phoebe from him "me talking to my dad?"</div>
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Rolling his eyes he shook his head "no. Of you communicating with him with your mind. I wish we could do that."</div>
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<div>
"If we could then we couldn't get married" she smiled up at him.</div>
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<div>
"Does that mean you will marry me?" he asked leaning in close.</div>
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"Maybe" she laughed skipping backwards as he tried to grab her.</div>
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"That's not an answer" he complained chasing her around the room to the obvious delight of their little girl. Her high pitched squeals filling the air around them.</div>
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<div>
"That's the only answer you're going to get until I get a proper proposal" she told him leaning against the wall catching her breath.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What makes for a proper proposal?" Everett asked taking Phoebe from her arms. Setting her on the floor he turned back to Kimberly "a romantic candle lit dinner?" He kissed her cheek "a dozen red roses?" He kissed her other cheek "on bended knee?" He kissed her nose "words of undying love?" He brought his hands up to caress her face "sealed with a kiss." His mouth hovered above hers a moment before he pressed his lips down upon hers. His tongue brushing against hers in a fevered, passionate kiss.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Keenan waited by the bus stop watching as people went about their business. Some were going on vacations to exotic locations. Others were going home from business trips. Some were returning home to stay afraid the borders would close for good. Keenan always enjoyed coming here to watch people, wondering where they were going, what they had seen wishing he could be one of them. It wasn't to be. Not for him. He had to stay in Moonlight Falls. He was the future ruler. On his 21st birthday he would come into his powers becoming a full vampire. He would be expected to take his fathers place as ruler. </div>
<div>
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<div>
His eyes darted around the bus stop wondering if he dared get on the waiting bus. Take one carefree trip leaving his guards behind. He should just go. Have one moment of carefree fun. He took a step forward when a young man stepped off the bus looking around eyes bright with curiosity. Keenan knew the visitor was human. That in itself wasn't strange but considering the strained relations between supernaturals and humans it was unusual a human would come to Moonlight Falls. In fact the only humans in Moonlight Falls were relatives of Keenan's. Serafino had revoked the visas of everyone else. Had his father invited this human to Moonlight Falls? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXRjFT9nJoeMJ6P8jAfPjNZry61WRgWHtjml9qlM65L7BXD6WflqdiFaMdf-9_RTbEo6nByDplWan5w8pzXE02h2m97NBSdiB1BHI7iOaei4H9g9-p1pZ7KSowikuvMwY_fll1fzc31iCo/s1600/Screenshot-901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXRjFT9nJoeMJ6P8jAfPjNZry61WRgWHtjml9qlM65L7BXD6WflqdiFaMdf-9_RTbEo6nByDplWan5w8pzXE02h2m97NBSdiB1BHI7iOaei4H9g9-p1pZ7KSowikuvMwY_fll1fzc31iCo/s640/Screenshot-901.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
Approaching him Keenan said "you're new. Did my father invite you to Moonlight Falls?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The young man turned around a grin on his handsome face "depends on who your father is."</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
"I suppose it would," Keenan chuckled a little "it's just we don't get many humans here."</div>
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<div>
The boy frowned "how do you know I'm human?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shrugging Keenan half turned away as he said "by your smell mostly. Humans smell different from say vampires or werewolves."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Nodding the young man rubbed his chin thoughtfully "I'll have to remember that. I'm Thomas Bennett but all my friends call me Tommy."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Any relation to Beverly Bennett?" Kennan asked his voice rising with excitement. It was a rare occasion he got to meet anyone from the Bennett side of the family.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Do you know her?" the boy asked with eagerness "she's my dad's Aunt."</div>
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"She's my mom," Keenan said "well step mom but she's like my mom. I mean..." he took a deep breath knowing he was rambling. He couldn't seem to stop his mouth from spilling words as they popped into his head when he was nervous or excited.</div>
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"Awesome" Tommy said "that makes us like cousins or something."</div>
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"Do you have a place to stay?" Keenan asked.</div>
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"Well I..." a slight blush crept across Tommy's cheeks "I was hoping to stay with the family. At least until I found a place."</div>
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"Great" Keenan enthused picking up one of the boy's duffel bags "you can stay with me."</div>
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"You don't even know me," Tommy said uncertainty in his voice.</div>
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"You're family what else do I need to know?" Keenan laughed over his shoulder "besides the house is being torn upside down while my nephew Heath and his family are in the process of moving."</div>
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"You have your own place?" Tommy asked.</div>
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<br /></div>
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"Sure do" Keenan nodded "I could use the company."</div>
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"Are you sure it won't be an imposition to have me stay there?" Tommy asked "I don't want to put you out."</div>
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"No problem" Keenan said "just don't make eye contact with the guards and you'll do fine."</div>
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"Wait! What?" Tommy asked jogging to catch up to the white haired young man several steps ahead of him.</div>
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<div>
Time passed slowly for Phoenix in the sense he never stopped hoping Quinn would return even though he no longer went to their rendezvous spot. He had stopped trying to contact her as well after months of silence. Several years later he had grown to accept she was serious about not returning. There was no them. Never could be. He never should have let things become physical between them. He realized that now. Rules were rules for a reason. He broke them. He was paying for that oversight.</div>
<div>
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<div>
He heard the crash before the screams. Groaning he went to check on the twins. A smile spread across his face. He knew he shouldn't. It would only encourage them in the future. He really couldn't help it.</div>
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<div>
His son sat with a bowl on his head. Milk and cheerios dripping from his hair. "What happened little man?" he asked kneeling beside the toddler.</div>
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Peaking out from beneath the bowl a grin stretching his chubby cheeks "I did it," he announced proudly.</div>
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<div>
If he meant to make a mess he certainly succeeded Phoenix thought. "Yes you did" he said out loud.</div>
<div>
Pointing towards the counter his sister added "he made it move."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Realization widened his eyes in shock. Phoenix had poured himself a bowl of cereal earlier. Too deep in thought he had forgotten to eat. Somehow his son had managed to pull it down from the counter. He gasped as shock swamped his senses. Not pulled down. Magic. His son was coming into his powers. Soon his sister would follow. Things had just become ten times worse. The council would no doubt detect the surge in power. How did he stop two year olds from using powers they didn't understand and couldn't control?</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"Your boyfriend's in trouble" Silver announced as he watched her enter her haven.</div>
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<div>
Quinn's eyes narrowed as she caught sight of Silver lounging in her favorite spot. "Leave" she commanded ignoring his comment.</div>
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"You should contact him" he continued "it's the least you could do after he gave birth to your children."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"My what?" she demanded his words finally making on impact on her. His silence greeted her question. She looked around to find she was alone once again. She stared at the spot Silver had been. There was no way Phoenix could have gotten pregnant. They had never....no wait there was that one night. One thing lead to another. He had asked if she could but that was impossible. That was her punishment on top of being sentenced to become this dimensions watcher.</div>
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<div>
She sank on the couch mind in a whirl. All she had wanted to do was help the Elysians. It was unfair they could never have children. The majority didn't even know why they were barren unable to conceive or why they were enslaved to become daycare providers to a race that ignored their young until adulthood. One selfish ruler who wanted immortality gave up the right to have children for his entire race. Enslaving them to the task of raising children not their own.</div>
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<div>
<div>
She felt their pain. Saw the injustice. She wanted to help. She thought she was helping. She used Elysian DNA mixed with IF magic and her own DNA to create a child. The result? Silver. He was supposed to be symbol of hope, a new beginning. Instead he was a catastrophic a mistake. A powerful creature with no compassion, no remorse.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
That's when the council stepped in. She was punished for her crimes. She had interfered with the balance of a whole other dimension who relied upon the Elysians to care for their children. Within a few short generations that race completely died out. She had never meant to hurt anyone. Her punishment was this dimension. A world on the brink of extinction. She used her fertility expertise to populate the world.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Elysians were consigned here with her in a separate realm of reality. Forever watching others have the children they couldn't have themselves. It was not unexpected that they rebelled. Sending the IF's to become friends with small children. Their prime directive to make those children give them life only to repay their love with hate. Fortunately that threat had been neutralized but Silver was churning things up again. How long before he incited them to try something else?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It would be easy to give in to Silver's demands but how long would it be before he realized it wasn't what he thought. He thought Adam was his bonded one because Adam bore his child. Unfortunately for Silver the bonding was achieved through trickery and Adam was not bonded to him. Silver's hate would only grow, knowing no bounds. It would eventually destroy this dimension.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shaking her head Quinn brought her mind back to the present. Was Silver correct? If he was, how did he know? How had Phoenix become pregnant? Was it an unexpected side effect of her punishment or had Silver done something to cause this? She couldn't help but wonder why Phoenix hadn't tried to tell her. Had he tried all those times she had ignored his attempts to contact her? She stood up swaying on her feet. She clutched at the wall to steady herself, what was she going to do now?</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Serafino glared across the desk at Adam. "Thank you for seeing me" he said attempting to maintain a pleasant tone.</div>
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<div>
"What do you want?" Adam asked dispensing with the pleasantries.</div>
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Serafino's eyes narrowed "I want a lot of things. For starters your head on a platter."</div>
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The assembled guards growled in unison a few even snarling. A hand gripped Serafino's shoulder firmly "leave now." </div>
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"My business isn't finished" Serafino shook the guards hand from his shoulder. </div>
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"You're finished when I say you are" the guard growled "you threatened the ruler's life. That is </div>
<div>
unacceptable."</div>
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Turning towards Adam "call your dogs off." </div>
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<div>
Adam rose to his full height "I am through catering to the likes of you. I have tried to appease you. I have tried to be reasonable and listen to your demands." His voice rose "I will not be threatened in my own office. I will not be forced to do things I do not approve of nor believe in. You sir are out of line here."</div>
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Serafino rose eyes glowing with rage. Fangs extending to their sharpened glory "I am your better. I have been here more years than your family has been in existence."</div>
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"I may not be ancient royalty. I do however descend from ancient royalty. Alessandro was my ancestor as vile as he was. So do not use your pedigree against me. Mine is as long and as rich as yours." Adam nodded towards the guards "escort our guest out. We are finished here."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Serafino shouted "you'll regret this" as guards grabbed an arm each to drag him from the room.</div>
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***</div>
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Once Serafino was outside the castle walls the werewolves stood arms crossed barring access to the castle. He had no choice but to leave. "Tell your esteemed one I'll be back," Serafino advised the guards before stalking off.</div>
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He was met be another man. He bowed in deference to the mans age. He was more ancient then he was "can he be reasoned with?" the old one inquired.</div>
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"No he is as stubborn as his predecessor was" Serafino informed him excluding the fact he had threatened Adam's life without delivering his message.</div>
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"You said he was weak. Without support," the man's fury washed over Serafino likes wave in the ocean. </div>
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"I may have been in error" he mumbled lowering his head in expectation of reproof.</div>
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"Very well. We will enact our alternate plan," the ancient one sighed "see to it," he commanded before vanishing.</div>
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<div>
Glancing at the spot his ancestor once stood Serafino grinned "one day I'll be ruler of Moonlight Falls. All humanity will fall at my feet not yours old man." Serafino knew the plan well altering it to fit his plans not the old man's. It was time he made his bid for dominance. No one and nothing would stand in his way especially no upstart vampire that had been the lowest of the low, a mere human.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-89572751132312714402016-12-29T06:56:00.001-06:002016-12-29T06:56:45.098-06:004.20 Consequences<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"What are you doing here?" Quinn asked as Silver made himself at home inside her safe haven.<br />
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"Aren't you happy to see me?" he asked laughing at the dagger filled glare she gave him. "What the matter? Mommy doesn't love me anymore" he gave her a pretend pout.<br />
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"I'm not your mother" she scowled at him "now leave."<br />
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Crossing his legs he leaned back on the couch. A pleasant smile upon his lips. He gave the appearance of a guest enjoying tea. Only his eyes portrayed his veiled intent. "He's not going home," Silver informed her as if she should know who he was referring too.<br />
<br />
"He who?" she asked. She could have read the information from his mind if she was so inclined. It was not a practice she enjoyed doing often or ever especially an evil mind such as his.<br />
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"Everett Gray" he said the name enjoying the shock that spread across her face.<br />
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"How do you know that?" she asked keeping her voice devoid of emotion.<br />
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Shrugging he leaned back smirking "you could say I engineered it that way. Your stuck with an extra Gray in your dimension."</div>
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"Why did you do this?" she screamed. All the work she had done to balance out her dimension was falling part. Not only was her dimension teetering out of control now Phoenix's would be too. His face flashed in her mind. His intelligent kind blue eyes. His long soft red hair. </div>
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"It could be be worse," Silver said studying her face "I could have prevented Lincoln from leaving. He after all is the vital Gray for your sister dimension."</div>
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"It'll cause an imbalance" she shook her head to stop the flow of words that would betray her upset emotional state. She couldn't give Silver anymore ammunition to use against her. "What do you want?" she demanded.</div>
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"I want what's mine" Silver growled "my son. My bonded one. You hid them from me."</div>
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"No" she said her voice firm unwavering "I will not risk bringing the council to this dimension by giving them to you."</div>
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Silver nodded eyes sparkling "have it your way. I could have been persuaded to let you use them. I had no desire to bring the council here." He shrugged getting up "if I can't have what I want neither can you."</div>
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"You'd be willing to destroy two dimensions to get them?" she asked astonishment lacing her words.</div>
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"Yes" he said walking menacingly towards her "give me what's mine. I'll let you save this pitiful world."</div>
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"If I don't you'll destroy yourself and them" Quinn pointed out "I won't cave to your demands."</div>
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"One last chance to change your mind," Silver glared at her in incomprehension at her unreasonableness.</div>
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"No" Quinn shook her head "I need Adam and Keenan to do their part to bring balance to the dimension."</div>
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"Find another way," Silver hissed.</div>
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"There is no other way" she crossed her arms determined.</div>
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Taking a step back Silver stared at her "so be it. What happens next is on you."</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Adam rushed forward to catch the young man before he fell to the floor. "What happened?" he shouted over the noise of the alarms.</div>
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Peter stood over the instruments board as alarms and lights flashed. Shaking his head "from what I can ascertain the portal has been sabotaged."</div>
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"Serafino" Adam said the name like a curse.</div>
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"More than likely" Alanon agreed stooping beside Adam inspecting Everett's injuries. "I don't think he's badly hurt. More stunned than anything."</div>
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"Do what you can for him" Adam commanded the mage. He stood up surveying the room. Everyone looked stunned except for the two werewolves who had been assisting Serafino before their arrival. </div>
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"What did he do?" Adam demanded letting his Vampire powers fuel his anger "tell me now or suffer the consequences."</div>
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The two men growled in unison remaining silent otherwise their gazes insolent. "Guards" Adam shouted.</div>
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"Yes sir" the two guards said coming to his summons.</div>
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"Take these men to the dungeon" Adam pointed towards the werewolves. Their eyes flickered with indecision. "On what charges" the oldest of the two asked.</div>
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"Treason" Adam hissed.</div>
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The younger man stepped forward "I was following orders..."</div>
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"Tell me everything you know" Adam commanded "so that I may be lenient with you."</div>
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"We'll tell you nothing" the oldest man said grabbing the younger man squeezing the man's arm.</div>
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Whirling around on his superior the werewolf growled "I'll tell him everything. I can't bring this shame on my family."</div>
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"You should have considered that before agreeing to work with me," the other man said. With a vicious abrupt move the older werewolf rushed at his partner snapping the man's neck with a loud resounding snap.</div>
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The two guards fearing for their ruler's life rushed forward. Within minutes the traitorous werewolf was dead upon the floor beside his murdered counterpart.</div>
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The others looked around in stunned silence. For some reason an inane thought kept running through Adam's head that caused him to place a hand over his mouth to cover up the giggle that wanted to escape.The inappropriateness of the thought prevented him from giving in to the desire. Alanon looked up with a twinkle in his eyes "clean up on aisle nine."</div>
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"Were you reading my mind?" Adam asked giving his good friend a worried look.</div>
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"No" Alanon assured him "it was just" he shrugged "a very inappropriate thing to say." </div>
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"Yes it was," Adam said fighting to keep a straight face.</div>
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***</div>
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Kimberly sat beside the unconscious young man lightly running her fingers through his hair. "Please wake up" she pleaded to whatever powers that could hear her. She leaned forward resting her head on her knees feeling tired but unwilling to leave his side.</div>
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She looked up startled at the faint touch of someones hand in her hair "Everett?" she cried looking up to find his soft gray eyes looking at her.</div>
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"What?" he licked his lips "what happened?" he asked frowning as he took in his surroundings</div>
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"The portal rejected you" Kimberly explained "Grandpa Peter said someone programmed it to reject you so you couldn't return to your dimension."</div>
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<div>
"How? Why?" he frowned "it worked before to bring me here."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Evidently that's why the sabotage worked. It allowed you to cross over to get your DNA. Since it acquired your DNA it was able to block you from re-entering and going home." She tried to smile at him "if you want a more detailed description of what happened you'll have to talk to Grandpa."</div>
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"What about Lincoln?" he struggled to sit up.</div>
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"He's ok" Kimberly said gently pushing him back to the pillow "you need to rest."</div>
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Closing his eyes a single tear rolled down his cheek "I've never left him alone before."</div>
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"I'm sorry" Kimberly picked up his hand gently kissing it's palm "if there's a way to get you home my Grandpas will find it."</div>
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He gave her a twisted smile "I should be thankful. I wanted to stay."</div>
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Lifting his hand she pressed it against her cheek "shh that was before you knew the consequences."</div>
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"I would have missed you," Everett said eyes shining with wetness "as much or more then I'm missing my brother."</div>
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"Oh I'd hope more," she smiled down at him.</div>
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"Definitely" he twirled her hair around his fingers pulling her head down to his.</div>
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Their mouths hovered close together "we shouldn't be doing this," Kimberly said breathing deeply of his scent committing it to memory.</div>
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"I don't care" he told her "I love you."</div>
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She moaned helplessly as the pressure on the back of her head increased and their mouths connected in a heated passionate kiss. "I love you too" she said sounding breathless a moment later.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Ambrogio starred at the green eyed boy. A man trapped inside the body of a toddler. He couldn't fathom anything so so horrible. He had been a bodiless entity for eons of time. He could remember how he ached to have a body. He could only imagine how Malachi felt. Having to sit back and watch his girlfriend become involved with someone else regardless of the feelings he had for her He had to let her go. There was no way they could be together.</div>
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Looking up as Alanon entered the room "can we keep the boy?"</div>
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For a moment Alanon looked at him in confusion "what boy?" he asked confirming to Ambrogio his appearance of confusion was accurate.</div>
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"Malachi" Ambrogio said letting his longing filter into his voice.</div>
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"He has parents" Alanon said dismissing the idea.</div>
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"He did have parents," Ambrogio corrected "his parents are expecting a nineteen year old young man to come home. Someone they have already raised to adulthood."</div>
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"Yes but..."</div>
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"But what?" Ambrogio demanded "are going to explain to them that their son was caught in a time bubble? That their son aged backwards and is now a toddler again. They'd look at us like we were crazy or worse that we had harmed their son in some way."</div>
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"I hadn't given it that much thought" Alanon admitted "I just assumed he'd go home. I see now he can't."</div>
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"Not really unless we want to assign him to an endless amount of needless tests from over eager scientists trying to figure out what has happened to him." Ambrogio bit his lip "please can we keep him. Raise him like our own?"</div>
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"He's not a child" Alanon pointed out "he's a grown man trapped inside a toddler body."</div>
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"I know but" he sighed unsure whether he should admit he had been reading his husbands spell books "can't you wipe his memories?"</div>
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Slowly Alanon nodded "I could but is that the best thing to do?"</div>
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"Is it better to watch him suffer?" Ambrogio asked "he has to endure being treated like a child because of his appearance. He has to act like a toddler otherwise people will become suspicious of him. He has to watch Kimberly falling in love with someone else." Ambrogio looked up sighing "I can't imagine the torment his life has become. Can't we please help him?"</div>
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"I'll consider it," Alanon said "if he wants me to I will. I won't unless it's what he wants."</div>
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"Thank you" Ambrogio smiled in relief "can I ask him?"</div>
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"You're the only on he talks to. So yes ask him. Don't pressure him" Alanon hugged his husband tight realizing for the first time how much Ambrogio must have been longing to have a child.</div>
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***</div>
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Malachi listened silently absorbing everything Ambrogio had to say. Inwardly he wanted to jump up and down with joy but outwardly he gave the impression of an implementable rock. He was an opportunity to start over. A clean slate with no memories of the past. No dreams about parents he could never see again. No regrets about his decision that let up to his current situation. Mostly no heartbreak. Kimberly wouldn't occupy his thoughts.</div>
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"So what do you think?" Ambrogio asked becoming worried. The longer the boy remained silent the more he was sure he wouldn't do it. </div>
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"Yes" Malachi nodded vigorously "yes." He smiled throwing his arms around the man who would become his adoptive parent. Who was giving him this miracle.</div>
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"Are you sure?" Ambrogio asked despite his growing excitement "once your memory is wiped we can't get them back again."</div>
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"I'm positive," Malachi assured him "the Malachi that existed is dead for all intents and purposes. His memories are only a torment."</div>
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"I'll let Alanon know," Ambrogio said a grin spreading across his face like sunshine after the rain.</div>
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"Are there any side effects? Any chance that my memories will resurface?" Malachi asked suddenly afraid of this life altering decision.</div>
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"Possibly but not likely" Ambrogio told him trying to recall what he had read in Alanon's spell book "you'd have to ask Alanon. He's the mage not me."</div>
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Shrugging Malachi jumped to his feet "it doesn't really matter I'm doing this regardless." Turning to the older man "just promise me you'll always be there for me. I need something. Someone to cling to that's mine."</div>
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"I promise," Ambrogio whispered. Sometimes he felt he needed the same thing. He had Alanon but he had his magic that Ambrogio struggled to understand. His needs were secondary to the needs of Moonlight Hollow.</div>
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***</div>
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How long had it been Phoenix wondered since he had last seen Quinn. There were so many things he needed to ask her. All his requests to meet had gone unanswered. Slowly he started to accept that Quinn wasn't coming back. He would have to face the consequences of their actions alone. If he had known becoming pregnant was a possibility he would have been more careful. She had assured him that it was impossible for her to become pregnant. He had not known that he would be the one to get pregnant. How was that even possible?</div>
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He ran a hand over his protruding stomach. Soon he would become a father. His baby would never know it's mother. Could that be why she refused to respond to his requests? Did she know this would happen? He could feel his anger rising inside him.</div>
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All her talk about helping him maintain balance in his dimension had been a trick to get him to trust her. She had betrayed him. He had noticed when Peter and the others had left. Noticed when Lincoln had come back. Everett was supposed to come back too. He hadn't. Quinn had been the one to explain to him how important the Gray's were within each dimension. Had she taken him because he could help stabilize her dimension or did she take him knowing it would further destabilize his.</div>
<div>
He didn't want to believe she would do that to him. The more he looked the more he could see her involvement in the things that were unraveling. His protruding stomach made it impossible for him to appear to anyone he trusted to help him. How would they react to seeing a pregnant man? That just wasn't possible. He couldn't contaminate his dimension with that knowledge.</div>
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It was proving difficult to keep the knowledge of time manipulation from becoming a preoccupation of the science community in the end he had to maneuver things to destroy Silver's lab. That creature wouldn't be able to continue his experiments in his dimension anymore.</div>
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He still didn't have a time keeper. Whoever the two that Quinn promised him were they hadn't come. At least while Peter was here he had someone knowledgeable in the position now he had no one.</div>
<div>
Now Everett was gone and Lincoln was struggling without him. Of course Lincoln was the more important Gray but Everett was his support system. The one Lincoln turned to for strength when he was confused or doubting himself.</div>
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Like dominoes in a line one fell after another. When would the last domino drop? He shivered knowing that the council would come. Reset both their dimensions and carry on as if nothing happened.</div>
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***</div>
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Quinn felt utterly exhausted for a being with almost limitless power. She had been following Silver around trying to figure out what he was up to for months. She couldn't help but appreciate his ingenuity even if it was in direct conflict to her. She could see the beauty of what he was doing even if she didn't agree with him. Overall she had hoped to discover a weakness she could exploit. If she hadn't been so busy following Silver she might have given in t the desire to see Phoenix. Something was wrong. Why else would he be trying to contact her? The most frightening thing was when his requests stopped. Now there had been nothing but silence for several weeks.</div>
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She tried to see things from his perspective. She reluctantly concluded that he must think she betrayed him. She took Peter without sending the promised replacement. Then Lincoln returned without Everett. She could have sent him back herself except she wasn't supposed to become directly involved in the dimension. Also she had been swayed by sentiment. Her judgment had been clouded. He and Kimberly reminded her of how it had been with Phoenix. Now it was too late to rectify it. She could detect the fertilized egg within Kimberly. She couldn't separate Everett from his family anymore than she could abandon her dimension. She came to the unwelcome conclusion that it was best to let Phoenix believe she had deceived him.</div>
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For the first time in millennia she dropped to her knees and gave way to despair. The tears flowed unchecked as deep wracking sobs squeezed her lungs blocking the air she needed to breathe.</div>
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***</div>
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"What are you doing here?" a brightly colored man demanded barring the door.</div>
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"I have information for your esteemed leader" Silver replied sounding as respectful as his nature allowed.</div>
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"I bet you do," the man scowled "you are not welcome here."</div>
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Laughing Silver shook his head "I'm not allowed most places but that has never stopped me."</div>
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"You have lied to us and about us. Manipulated us in the past" the man said calling for security.</div>
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"I only did what was necessary" Silver declared with a thin lipped smile. Leaning forward he stabbed a finger at the man "tell your esteemed leader the dimension watcher has awakened."</div>
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"I will relay the information" the man agreed despite the sparkle of interest in his eyes "we'll contact you if the leader wants to see you."</div>
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"Oh he will," Silver laughed as the man closed the door in his face.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-9743464688793350082016-12-28T06:37:00.002-06:002016-12-28T06:37:57.696-06:004.19 Imbalance<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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"What the hell do you think you're doing?" Adam demanded slamming his office door shut. He stared at the men gathered within his private office. His eyes glittered with rage. His voice demanding attention as the assembled vampires and werewolves jumped to attention before him all except one remained sitting. "Someone had better answer me," Adam intoned letting his fury fill the room something he seldom ever did. It was as shocking as his unexpected presence had been.<br />
<br />
Keenan stood beside him observing their reactions. The werewolves bristled, lowering their heads in acknowledgement of Adam's rule over them. Most of the vampires did likewise. One remained seated a smirk upon his impassive face. Catching Keenan watching him he rose his eyes glittering in defiance before he lowered his head. He was an ancient vampire dating back to the days before Alessandro. Keenan filed the impression away to bring to his father's awareness at a later time. He eyed the man with watchful distrusting eyes.<br />
<br />
The man Keenan identified as a possible threat cleared his throat catching everyone's attention "merely preliminary precautions...."<br />
<br />
"For what?" Adam demanded. He slammed his fist onto his desk resulting in a stress fracture to form in the wood. "War is not a precaution. It's a last ditch effort when all else has failed."<br />
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The man's eyes narrowed "are you calling me stupid?"</div>
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<div>
Adam swallowed his first response that yes Seraphino was most definitely stupid. He eyed Seraphino's enraged face concluding this was the ringleader of the group gearing for war. "I'm saying you're being too hasty. War is a costly endeavor.. I won't sacrifice the lives of one person if there's another way to solve the problem."</div>
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<div>
"You're weak," Seraphino sneered.</div>
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<div>
Ignoring the insult Adam turned to the others in the room. "Do you think war is the only answer? Humans may appear to weak compared to our strengths and powers but they more than make up for it with ingenuity. Their numbers alone far out do ours. Think about it. For the first time in years we have a line of communication with them. We can end this peacefully."</div>
<div>
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<div>
As the assembled men began to nod in agreement the disgruntled vampire scowled at the assembly. "You're all fools" he gave Keenan a piercing hateful glare before slamming the door shut behind him as he left.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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The clanging of keys and dungeon doors opening jolted Kimberly and Heath awake. The guard bowed acting nervous less sure of himself "please forgive me for detaining you." The young werewolf cringed "I was following orders."</div>
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<div>
"Grandpa must be back" Kimberly whispered in Heath's ear. Her eyes became unfocused while she tried to contact Adam. "Nothing," she blinked rubbing her temples "it's like he's not there."</div>
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"He could be wearing a blocker of some sort," Heath whispered back "Alanon had made us necklaces that blocked other's from our minds."</div>
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"This is stronger than that," Kimberly told him "similar but different."</div>
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"Maybe it's stronger because it's meant to block out Silver," Heath suggested keeping his voice down so as avoid drawing attention to their conversation.</div>
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They followed the guard to Adam's office where the guard cringed again bowing low almost to the floor. Heath and Kimberly gave him puzzled frowns as they opened the familiar door smiling in relief upon seeing Adam and Keenan waiting for them.</div>
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"Dad," Heath cried in relief pulling his father into a hug "I was so worried about you."</div>
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Kimberly pulled her younger Uncle into her arms "don't ever do that again" she admonished him.</div>
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"I can't" Keenan said pulling away from her "I thought I was helping you. I won't promise not to try and help in the future." Turning to glance at his dad he continued "you can't make me promise that."</div>
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Kimberly peered intently into Keenan's eyes. Smiling she said "I guess I can't. What's this?" she asked pulling on the amulet around his neck.</div>
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<div>
Swatting her hands away Keenan explained "it's to keep Silver from detecting us. Dad has one too."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Fingering the amulet Kimberly said "that's why I couldn't contact you. I knew when they released us that you were back though." She beamed over at Adam happy they were back.</div>
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<div>
"Released you" Adam grumbled an edge in his voice as he looked to Heath for an explanation.</div>
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"Calm down dad" Heath tried to placate him knowing that furious look in his dad's eyes well "the guard isn't to blame. He was following orders to lock us up in the dungeons."</div>
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Kimberly shivered rubbing her arms as she felt the cold clammy air from the dungeon envelope her. "They came for me. The werewolves and vampires. I think they wanted to get to dad through me."</div>
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<div>
"They got what they wanted when I came here demanding to see you," Heath nodded ruefully.</div>
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"Do you know what's going on?" Kimberly asked arms still around Keenan.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Rubbing his chin Adam nodded "there's a lot I still need to work through but I think they wanted Heath to go to Midnight Hollow to keep the IF's from revolting."</div>
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"Me?" Heath cried shivering "why?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're my son for one. Two you're an IF," Adam explained "it's actually not a half bad idea."</div>
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"But I..." Heath exhaled loudly "I don't want to go." The thought of being among a town full of IF's like Windy and Kyle's father made him feel ill.</div>
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"Not all IF's are like the one's we've dealt with in the past. They need direction. If I had a co-ruler living among them they'd be less likely to revolt and revert back to their old ways." Turning to his son Adam squeezed his shoulder "I know you don't want to. I'm asking you to consider it. I don't trust anyone else to do it. You're the only one I know who will do as I request."</div>
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Swallowing audibly Heath nodded. It was a huge vote of confidence and one he wasn't sure he was capable of handling. "What about Don and the kids?" he asked.</div>
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"They could go with you," Adam assured him.</div>
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Heath gave him a nod then asked "have they opened the dimension portal?"</div>
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"What do you mean?" Adam demanded heading towards the door.</div>
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"They closed the dimension when you disappeared" Kimberly explained "Dad and the others haven't been able to come home."</div>
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They followed Adam down the corridor to the Dimension room. They were met by Alanon and Lincoln who were arguing with the guards outside the door. Turning Alanon smiled upon catching sight of Adam "I heard you were back." Glaring at the obstinate guards "maybe you could help us gain access to the room. Lincoln needs to return to his dimension."</div>
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<div>
"I'm still catching up with everything that's happened" Adam mumbled "I'm gone for a few weeks and the whole place falls apart."</div>
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"I did the best I could" Alanon said sounding a little defensive "unfortunately my actions were suspect being so closely related to your family and humans."</div>
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"Mmm yes" Adam acknowledged not wanting to get into with Alanon in front of so many onlookers "you and I will need to talk later."</div>
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Alanon nodded knowing that any real discussion would occur outside of these walls away from any listening devices. "I look forward to it" he acknowledged the summons with a slight inclination of the head.</div>
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"Stand aside" Adam commanded the guards. The guards scowled at each other neither one moving aside to let Adam pass.</div>
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"Stand aside" Adam repeated eyes glowing in vampiric fury "who is your ruler?" he demanded showing the guards his fangs.</div>
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They hesitated for only a moment before bowing and allowing Adam and the others access to the room beyond. </div>
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Serafino turned as they entered. Glaring menacing at the guards "I told you not to allow anyone in here."</div>
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"You are not our ruler" the men said their eyes following Adam confirming where their allegiance lay "it was different when Adam was lost. Now that he has returned you command us no longer."</div>
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"Fools" Serafino hissed. Glaring at Adam fangs extended "this interloper is no match for me He is weak. More human than vampire."</div>
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<div>
Hissing Adam let his fangs extend intimidatingly at Serafino "I am ruler of Moonlight Falls yield to me."</div>
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<div>
Serafino took an unconscious step back unaccustomed to anyone standing up to him. He let his fangs retract, straightening his sleeves. "This isn't over weakling" he glared at Keenan before leaving in a huff.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Heart racing Adam took several deep breaths before he was able to get his fangs to retract and his eyes to stop glowing in rage. Turning towards the disconcerted guards he commanded "Serafino is not allowed inside the castle."</div>
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<div>
"But sir he is...."</div>
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"He is not allowed inside the castle," Adam hissed "do not make me repeat myself again."</div>
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<div>
"Yes my lord" they bowed resuming their post while they relayed the information to the other guards.</div>
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<div>
"Dad" Keenan's hand bounced off his dad's taut muscles along Adam's shoulders.</div>
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<div>
"Not now son" Adam said still struggling to control is vamperic ire "open the dimension" he commanded.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Lincoln stepped forward as the werewolves stationed in front of the controls moved to allow him access. "It's open" he announced without looking around. A vampire in a rage is an awesome scary sight and not one he wanted to associate with Adam.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
They received a response almost immediately. "Adam are you there?" they heard Peter's voice asking from the other dimension.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Dad" Adam stepped forward the last of his fury flowing from him "it's good to hear your voice."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"It'd be even better to see you in person son" Peter said "do we have permission to come over?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Yes" Adam nodded towards Lincoln who made the right adjustments.</div>
<div>
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<div>
A few minutes later four individuals emerged from the portal and stood before them. Heath rushed over to a teen aged version of his husband "Don is that you?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
Patting himself down Don said "it's me or what's left of me. Silver had us trapped where we aged backwards a year for a week."</div>
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<div>
"Malachi" Kimberly choked rushing towards Everett holding what appeared to be a toddler. Was that his son she wondered refusing to believe that she was looking at her boyfriend.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everett nodded mumbling "I'm sorry."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Stopping as tremors shook her body Kimberly couldn't believe this was happening. All this time and this is what she got. Turning to Adam she cried "you can fix this can't you?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I don't know" he gently took her in his arms while she sobbed on his shoulder. Stroking her hair he said "I'll do what I can" he looked up at Peter who was silently shaking his head "I can't promise anything will change."</div>
<div>
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<div>
She nodded running from the room. She couldn't stay there while her heart was breaking. She couldn't look at the toddler remembering how it used to be. How his arms had made her feel safe, secure and loved. How his kiss had made her weak in the knees when they had last been together. He sacrificed so much.</div>
<div>
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<div>
She fell on the rough sidewalk skinning her knees. She glanced around to see if anyone was watching. She was alone inside and out. All she wanted to do was run. Runaway as far and as fast as she could away from this nightmare.</div>
</div>
<div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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A twig snapped behind her. She jumped to her feet ready to run again. Strong arms pulled her tight before she was able to take a step. Struggling she screamed "let me go." The arms were familiar. They were the same arms that had held her once before. She had been weak wishing they had been Malachi's but they weren't.</div>
<div>
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<div>
The man's arms were insistent in holding her tight. Tiring she rested her head on his strong firm chest. Breathing deeply she listened to her captors strong steady heart beat. Several minutes later she wiped her eyes dry sighing "we should go back."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Are you ok?" he asked his voice gruff.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"No but I will be eventually" she smiled up at him. His gentle gray eyes made her smile. She could see the handsome young man he was despite the livid scar along one side of his face. As if drawn to it she lifted a hand up gently tracing the scar's outline with her fingers. "She should never have done that" she murmured referring to the woman who had betrayed him and broke his heart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXwaco9GMtQyHIRBeKgqbpPyu8C5StxErNU7TFjHjrh2KPzf-InDXUrSzVnRuxMCzRRv9NHdViezAlLX9lMUfHyUCxuuKMpVqbt_tb3g0w6R2paCso5lt_8me9dMeinwrq4IAbWwbFeQG/s1600/Screenshot-730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbXwaco9GMtQyHIRBeKgqbpPyu8C5StxErNU7TFjHjrh2KPzf-InDXUrSzVnRuxMCzRRv9NHdViezAlLX9lMUfHyUCxuuKMpVqbt_tb3g0w6R2paCso5lt_8me9dMeinwrq4IAbWwbFeQG/s640/Screenshot-730.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmM1xmjK-kMTYmYcH4kZ4aF2BBidjLm7cReYL6qgZcaUtSWiXV4h5nFY_fv0QssRWbvcNPKBmChA0Vg0Dufc9Q2_OshAQWqZliEeKX6Ts06liWwNjcW0N3B1VV2fLRF2hR6GBz5rmG5sP/s1600/Screenshot-731.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQmM1xmjK-kMTYmYcH4kZ4aF2BBidjLm7cReYL6qgZcaUtSWiXV4h5nFY_fv0QssRWbvcNPKBmChA0Vg0Dufc9Q2_OshAQWqZliEeKX6Ts06liWwNjcW0N3B1VV2fLRF2hR6GBz5rmG5sP/s640/Screenshot-731.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
"No more than you deserved to have your boyfriend turned into a toddler" he said leaning into her touch.</div>
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"We're quite the pair" she said "I wish...." She dropped her hand turning away.</div>
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<div>
Grabbing her hand Everett asked "you wish what?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"That .... that" she turned away tears in her eyes "you could stay here with me."</div>
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<div>
Pulling her to him he kissed her forehead "somewhere along the way I fell in love with you."</div>
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<div>
"What about your brother?" She peered up at him "I can't ask you to stay here."</div>
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"You don't have to ask" he told her stroking her face and hair "I want to be here with you. The weeks I spent there all I could think about was you. My heart belongs to you."</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8VJMptjGXwq9GrVGqh2LaYsabD4Hj3v7XEUmvgrO-hRFHHKvKwP_x2-qoykjiLLjiYtjrZxjbVQgBVc10bSexUnCkZ089r68ut-C_h0GBNEZAakslceTKO3vnmxH-WX_FOsTGTqIsvrog/s1600/Screenshot-733.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8VJMptjGXwq9GrVGqh2LaYsabD4Hj3v7XEUmvgrO-hRFHHKvKwP_x2-qoykjiLLjiYtjrZxjbVQgBVc10bSexUnCkZ089r68ut-C_h0GBNEZAakslceTKO3vnmxH-WX_FOsTGTqIsvrog/s640/Screenshot-733.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
Quinn watched the young couple regretting what she had to do next. For a moment her mind wandered to Phoenix. He had been so sweet, so tender and caring. She longed to go back to him. Tell him she changed her mind. Tell him that being together was worth the risk of bringing the council to them. Shaking her head she sniffed loudly alerting the young couple of her presence "don't let me disturb you."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Stepping away from each other Everett demanded "who are you?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"My name is irrelevant" she said watching Everett closely "I'm this dimension's watcher."</div>
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<div>
Everett's eyes grew wide with recognition "if that's true then this dimension..." he looked over at Kimberly drawing her close.</div>
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"That's right," Quinn said "I'm only awakened when things are so bad that the dimension is in danger of being reset." She looked at the young couple moved with pity "I'm sorry but you can't stay. You have to go back."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCf8jAcV6nZ0UFs-fLInUsGBdgPVLdUqQjNATz-T61KMkcxIUYMO8cDRx85000CL1VgQWTroKF23z1JjK5AVwSKJhrBRd3N-d9upGXSz9PuYLLBdVpZsGL3Fkiz_GKLFb71VoY47xl81Z9/s1600/Screenshot-735.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCf8jAcV6nZ0UFs-fLInUsGBdgPVLdUqQjNATz-T61KMkcxIUYMO8cDRx85000CL1VgQWTroKF23z1JjK5AVwSKJhrBRd3N-d9upGXSz9PuYLLBdVpZsGL3Fkiz_GKLFb71VoY47xl81Z9/s640/Screenshot-735.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"No" Kimberly cried hiding her face in Everett's shoulder. </div>
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"Your presence here is upsetting the dimensions balance. You can't stay here" Quinn stared directly into Everett's eyes "you know I'm right. You knew it before you came that you couldn't stay."</div>
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<div>
Shaking his head Everett struggled to accept what she was saying. "No you're wrong. Lincoln is the one that knows how to operate the dimension portal. He has the knowledge I lack. I'm not needed in my dimension."</div>
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<div>
"That's true" Quinn acknowledged "but I have not asked for you to be here and your dimension's balance is threatened with your absence."</div>
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"Does that mean the dimension watcher has been awakened there too?" Everett asked concern for his world and brother awakening inside him.</div>
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"Yes he has," Quinn nodded "you need to go back." She turned and walked away sure that Everett would return to his dimension. His sense of duty and love for his brother would win out over his hearts desire. As much as this dimension could use him she wasn't willing to upset Phoenix's dimension to let him stay. She was doing everything she could to keep her dimension from falling to save his. Everett had to go home.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbeEPPWv2ucpBI5LUUUAG1fpGBoALVz6Aer7-zzWi9T612hAlI-F7U-KSXSL9mTQ6rSvC0bmA-NR-u9r5XWT4jjKd61PwkDte3xq0gar7Wi8ZH5dwMW1oaTW-kBI0gjdHnmeAtDIidlu2/s1600/Screenshot-736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwbeEPPWv2ucpBI5LUUUAG1fpGBoALVz6Aer7-zzWi9T612hAlI-F7U-KSXSL9mTQ6rSvC0bmA-NR-u9r5XWT4jjKd61PwkDte3xq0gar7Wi8ZH5dwMW1oaTW-kBI0gjdHnmeAtDIidlu2/s640/Screenshot-736.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Pulling Kimberly close he could feel his heart breaking in two. He didn't want to lose her but he couldn't have her. "I'm sorry" he whispered kissing her forehead.</div>
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Nodding Kimberly stepped back shaking "I don't want to lose you. Let me go with you."</div>
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"You know that's not possible" Everett said keeping his voice low and gentle "your absence from this dimension would leave a hole as my absence from mine does."</div>
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<div>
"So this is it" Kimberly hugged herself. Within minutes she had lost two men she loved. She couldn't have Malachi because it would take too long for him to grow up and she couldn't have Everett because he didn't belong here. Her heart was shattering inside her and she knew it would never be whole again. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nodding Everett held his hand out to her "I'm sorry. If I could I'd stay with you forever but I can't at the cost of millions of innocent lives. How could I put my needs above so many?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I know" she mumbled as tears ran down her cheeks "I just....I want things to be different."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzN-QkBaOsQQF9hSZDtgJf8D0wuFdMoha6fbr-3G-UVlZncVDeDtWFet6QOMwKxAMs0-QkMkbCoo_UTUngpZmn3csKOUehyphenhyphen8birKACYX8-nINmelkd16wj_0PgmOxFe5WWAdu5hL5fcdx/s1600/Screenshot-737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikzN-QkBaOsQQF9hSZDtgJf8D0wuFdMoha6fbr-3G-UVlZncVDeDtWFet6QOMwKxAMs0-QkMkbCoo_UTUngpZmn3csKOUehyphenhyphen8birKACYX8-nINmelkd16wj_0PgmOxFe5WWAdu5hL5fcdx/s640/Screenshot-737.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"So do I" Everett gave her a sad smile "if it's any consolation you made me see that I could love again. I never thought it'd be possible after what happened." Unconsciously his hand traced the scar on his face "I thank you for that."</div>
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"I hope you find someone in your dimension that makes you happy" she whispered knowing she wished the opposite.</div>
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"Liar but thank you for the sentiment" Everett gently squeezed her tight before letting her go "I wish you the same."</div>
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"You lie as well as I do" she quipped trying to distance herself from the pain "we better go back."</div>
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Sighing he nodded "can I have one last kiss before I go?"</div>
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<div>
Nodding she tilted her face up to him as he pressed his lips to hers. It was a kiss of longing, of heart break, of new beginnings and a lasting goodbye. </div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-53823185923554951392016-12-09T06:16:00.002-06:002016-12-09T06:16:44.045-06:004.18 Terms and Conditions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Caleb picked his daughter up and cradled her in his arms. Kissing her cheeks as tears cascaded down his face. "Emmaline" he repeated over and over finding it difficult to believe the slight creature in his arms was his vivacious full of life little girl. How long had it been? Four? Five months? It had been long enough for her to have lost several pounds.<br />
<br />
He stumbled back Alanon's house. Kicking the door open open. Chase jumped to his feet shocked as his brother-in-law stood swaying in the door frame. "Is that?" he stammered staring at the pink haired young girl in Caleb's arms.<br />
<br />
Nodding Caleb stepped over the threshold "I can't wake her up" his voice and eyes pleading for help.<br />
<br />
"Bring her in here," Alanon ordered opening a door into his spell room.<br />
<br />
Caleb laid her carefully upon the stiff cold bed that Alanon pointed him towards. "what are you going to do?" he asked a note of fear in his voice as he watched Alanon as he began to chant. All this magic and supernatural powers made Caleb shudder, he didn't like it. Turning away from the man he contented himself with washing the smeared dirt from his daughter's face. He could only hope all of this was helping her and if it did it couldn't all be bad.<br />
<br />
Chase put a hand on Caleb's shoulder "is she alright?" he asked concerned.<br />
<br />
Caleb watched Alanon with worried eyes. Swallowing Caleb murmured "I hope so." He couldn't imagine Quinn bringing Emmaline back from the future only for him to watch her die. That didn't seem to be the way to ensure his agreement to anything.<br />
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<div>
Alanon looked up magic shimmering in his eyes. He smiled "she'll be fine. She's exhausted. She needs time to adjust to the new time she's in. A good nights rest and she should be good as new."</div>
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All the tension melted from Caleb's body leaving him week. Leaning against Chase he could feel the ever ready tears pricking his eyes "she's ok? Really ok?" he repeated shaking his head.</div>
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<div>
Nodding Alanon confirmed "she is. She needs rest." Glancing towards Chase he said "why don't you two go and get some rest? I'll come get you when she's awake."</div>
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<div>
Chase nodded putting an arm around Caleb helping him towards the door. "Come on. You could use some rest too" he told his brother-in-law.</div>
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<div>
Struggling against Chase's helpful hands Caleb tried to turn around "no no I want to stay with her."</div>
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<div>
"She'll be ok," Chase assured him "Alanon will tell us when she's awake."</div>
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<div>
Caleb turned giving Emmaline one last longing look before letting Chase help him from the room.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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"Did you sleep well?" Quinn asked popping into the room where her guests were housed</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Where are we?" Keenan demanded ignoring his father's attempts to silence him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Smirking at the boy Quinn remarked "I see you have Silver's flair for the dramatics."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keenan felt anger and bile rising within him "I am nothing like that vile loathsome creature."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Aren't you?" Quinn asked innocently knowing her words would stoke the boy's boiling rage.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Son," Adam chided putting a gentle hand on the boy's shoulder "don't rise to her bait."</div>
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<div>
Keenan glanced up at his dad thankful for the guidance and gentle rebuke. "Sorry dad," he mumbled taking several deep breaths hoping to calm himself.</div>
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"Pity Silver isn't as malleable as you are" Quinn said turning her attention to Adam "we need to get you home before Moonlight Falls crumbles further into chaos."</div>
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<div>
"Chaos?" Adam repeated instantly alarmed "I haven't been gone that long or have I?"</div>
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"Several months" Quinn shrugged as if to say the passage of time was insignificant "Silver is much too accomplished at manipulating time than I would wish him to be."</div>
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"He's a menace," Adam snapped at her.</div>
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"That too," she agreed "unfortunately I'm forbidden to harm him."</div>
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"Why?" Keenan demanded "he's a monster that needs to be done away with."</div>
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Quinn threw her head back laughing but the sound was anything but happy "I couldn't agree more. Unfortunately he's the reason I'm this dimension's watcher."</div>
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"You created him" Adam stated remembering bits and pieces of her conversation with Silver.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I was instrumental in causing his existence," she admitted "he's my greatest accomplishment and my biggest failure."</div>
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"If you can't stop him what's to prevent him from coming after us again?" Adam asked shivering at the prospect.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I may not be able to physically touch him but that doesn't mean I can't protect you from him," Quinn replied. She handed each of them an amulet "these will keep you invisible to him."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Taking one Adam hesitated "this doesn't prevent him from taking other members of my family." His mind immediately going to Heath and Don. They had already spent too much time in the clutches of that monster. "This only protects us. It leaves everyone else vulnerable."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It's an imperfect solution but the only one I have at the moment," Quinn admitted her usual bluff and bluster lacking that added to Adam's belief she was telling them the truth. "Unfortunately you're needed in Moonlight Falls to keep things under control while no one else in your family can."</div>
<div>
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"So you've already said" Adam acknowledged unwilling to be forced to make a decision under undue pressure. "Why? What's happening there that is so out of bad?"</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_awVRsjs6mxhaBLymo5CiBituoqTNqhNaMplOVlBmRTgpUbpYnlBqU8ugidsGkctu-SnP6-rooKZfGxszQjKCasPAKKBHRKvztwd0Eq_gJyK_gdagRb_zbIKMMOVmxe0DLrSt0j9wy5OX/s1600/Screenshot-426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_awVRsjs6mxhaBLymo5CiBituoqTNqhNaMplOVlBmRTgpUbpYnlBqU8ugidsGkctu-SnP6-rooKZfGxszQjKCasPAKKBHRKvztwd0Eq_gJyK_gdagRb_zbIKMMOVmxe0DLrSt0j9wy5OX/s640/Screenshot-426.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
"To put it bluntly they're preparing to go to war against the humans" she told him "without you or the chosen one they have let their prejudices and suspicions take control"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Damn," the word exploded from Adam "all the work we did to get humans and supernaturals on speaking terms. Now this. All because we weren't there to prevent it."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"That's precisely why this is happening" Quinn emphasized "no one understands humans the way you do. All they have are their preconceived ideas."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Looking at the amulet in his hand Adam weighed his options. Wear it and become invisible to Silver. Keep the world safe while making the rest of his family targets for a monster. Don't wear it and his family is safe and he is not. While he would normally take that option, could he really afford to do that when his absence as ruler meant letting Moonlight Falls go to war at the cost of thousands if not millions of lives.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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"Dad" Keenan's voice broke into his thoughts "wear it dad. We can handle Silver if he comes after our family. I know we can."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Snorting he squeezed his son's shoulder. His son was right Adam knew it. He just didn't like it. Pulling Keenan close he kissed his son's cheek "you're right." He put the amulet around his neck. It felt heavy but it was the cost of being a leader. Sometimes you couldn't afford to sacrifice yourself when millions of lives depended on you. "When can we go back?" Adam asked wondering if he could enlist the help of others to keep tabs on Silver.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"All you had to do was ask" Quinn told him and with a wave of her hand they were gone.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Heath headed towards the castle as soon as he received Kimberly's distress call. Bursting into his father's office he demanded "where is she? Where's my daughter?"</div>
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The assembled werewolves and vampires lifted their heads and glared at him. One of them said "she's safe."</div>
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"I want to see her," Heath demanded determined not to be put off or delayed. </div>
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Nodding towards a guard by the door the werewolf said "take the IF to his daughter"</div>
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Shocked Heath held his tongue. He didn't want anything to keep them from letting him see his daughter. His heart lurched as he recognized the route they were taking. It was leading to the dungeons. The last time he was down there he all but died. He hated this dark dismal place.</div>
<div>
He entered the dungeon where Kimberly sat curled up on the uncomfortable bench. "Daddy" she cried upon seeing him her eyes red, swollen and puffy.</div>
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The guard opened the cell door and stood aside to allow Heath to pass. "Baby" his voice was gruff and gravelly.</div>
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Kimberly launched herself from the bench and into her father's arms. "You shouldn't have come," she sobbed into his shoulder clinging to him.</div>
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<div>
"I'm your dad," he squeezed her tight "I had to come." When she had calmed down some he helped her to the cold hard bench that sent shudders through him. He had spent too many hours sitting on this very same bench inside this prison. Lived too many nightmares "do you know why you're here?" he asked her dragging his mind from the past to the present.</div>
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Shaking her head she buried her face into his shoulder "I'm so scared daddy."</div>
<div>
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Patting her head he stifled the natural inclination to admit that so was he. It wasn't what she needed to hear even if it were true. He was the dad. It was his duty to instill confidence in her. "It'll be ok" he assured her even though the voice in his head was shouting at him that they were in deep trouble.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
"Wakey wakey" Quinn cooed lightly patting the man's cheeks while he slept. She giggled when he tried to swat her hand away moaning in his sleep. "Time to wake up" she said bending close to speak in his ear.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What?" he growled opening his eyes jumping when he saw who was bending over him "what are you doing here?" he demanded pulling the blanket up to his chin.</div>
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<div>
"I've come to get your answer" she said sitting on the edge of the bed looking at him.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What do you want me to do?" he asked resigned to his fate. He'd do anything to keep his family safe. She obviously knew that as there was little surprise in her face.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Quinn gave him a knowing grin. She knew this would be his response. What other choice did he really have? A small part of her felt sorry for him and the position she had put him in. She knew she was using his familial feelings to her advantage. There was no one else better suited for the task that needed to be done. "You don't have to do anything. You're the rock to your family. That's exactly what you need to be for your children. However one of your grandchildren will be required to travel through time to fix certain things that Emit missed. It will bring balance back to the dimension before it falls apart completely."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Why my family? My Grandchildren?" Caleb asked "I don't understand why they're so special. Why does it have to be them?"</div>
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"You're unique," she smiled somewhat sadly at him "you're from another dimension. Your children carry your DNA. One of them has your uniqueness a little more than the others do." She sighed looking away unable to take him watching her "I know this is difficult..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You don't know anything," he grumbled shoving the blankets aside "your asking me to enslave one of my grandkids to do your bidding. I don't like it."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Its for the greater good," she told him ignoring the angry glare he gave her "ask Emmaline what the future is like. She'll tell you it's not a future anyone should have to live in. If we don't fix things now that's what your descendants have to look forward to. A world of flesh eating monsters and people that have forgotten how to live."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Is she the one? Is that why you sent her back first?" he asked.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Shaking her head Quinn watched him while he paced around the room. "She's not the one," she said "I had to send her back. Her body was starting to feel the stress of being in the wrong time and </div>
<div>
place." Caleb's head shot up frowning "it's not something you've ever experienced. It's something you inherited from your father. I told you, you were unique." She hesitated a moment from sharing the next bit of information. She knew it would shatter him. He had a special bond with his son. Knowing it was the boy would be especially devastating.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Andrew" he gasped putting a hand to his chest as if he could still the beating of his heart. "Why him? He's been through too much already."</div>
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<div>
"He has your uniqueness" she told him "his body isn't weakening from being in the wrong place and time. His fiance is strong but he too is beginning to weaken but I took care of that. Their children should all be capable of accomplishing what I ask. Stronger than both you and your son."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What makes you believe that?" Caleb asked wishing, hoping for anything to make her change her mind.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"The fetus growing inside your son is still striving despite having traveled to the future...."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The what?" he growled. Did she just say what he thought she said? Fetus? He was going to be a grandfather? He felt the blood rush from his head "I think I'm going to be sick."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Do you agree to my terms?" she asked unfazed by his emotional turmoil. She knew she was pressuring him in his moment of weakness but she needed his answer "the fetus is fine but it'd do better growing up here in it's own time. Don't let your fear condemn them to staying in the future where they can't survive. Think about what's best for them now As soon as you agree. The sooner I'll be able to bring them home."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I need time," he gasped feeling as if his head was about to explode "my wife. I need to talk to Drew."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nodding Quinn turned to leave "I'll be in touch. Don't wait too long. Things are dangerous where </div>
<div>
they're at and I may not be able to protect them."</div>
</div>
<div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div>
She walked out of the bedroom door. There was one more person she needed to talk to before she left. </div>
<div>
The blue haired man looked up from the book he was reading shock and apprehension on his face. "Who are you?" he demanded standing letting the book fall to the floor.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'm Quinn Silvia" she said "the dimension watcher. Your father must have mentioned me."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Recognition had his brows knitting to together "Emit said the dimension watcher only awakens when the dimension is in danger of being reset."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"That's correct," she told him "I hope to keep that from happening." Her thoughts strayed to Phoenix. His soft red hair as it slid through her fingers. His light blue eyes as they looked into hers. The feel of his strong arms as they held her tight. This was all for him. To keep him safe. She had to keep her dimension from falling and taking his with it.</div>
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<div>
"Things are worse than Emit let me believe," Chase grumbled.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Yes they are," she agreed "he didn't fix things that should have been corrected in the past. I have a plan that should balance things in this dimension."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWZDFSWAAw38e46q_Gp85XmeoKyx55UClbGiKFfs8DXIr2a1m8k706CfE8yP-aNiX5YA05jSCZNd6P_e2mfs97mCWBVyAmRFKRQW4MVbm-h2f2R9WjcuRU8O4LtCeksGG1jU5ABSBatER/s1600/Screenshot-431.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWZDFSWAAw38e46q_Gp85XmeoKyx55UClbGiKFfs8DXIr2a1m8k706CfE8yP-aNiX5YA05jSCZNd6P_e2mfs97mCWBVyAmRFKRQW4MVbm-h2f2R9WjcuRU8O4LtCeksGG1jU5ABSBatER/s640/Screenshot-431.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Nodding Chase eyed her a moment "what exactly do you need from me?"</div>
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<div>
"To watch Emit. Make sure he doesn't try to stop the changes I instigate." She stopped knowing the next part would be difficult but the man must know "you do realize that your daughters don't belong here."</div>
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Chase gave her a furious stare as dread filled the hole in his stomach. Not his girls. He couldn't live without them. It would crush Jennifer if anything happened to them. "No" he growled refusal making every muscle in his body stiff.</div>
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<div>
"They destabilize the dimension. Your from the future their mother is from the present. They neither belong here nor there." Quinn kept her voice firm level without pressure.</div>
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<div>
"I won't let you wipe them from existence" he told her.</div>
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<div>
"If that's what I wanted you couldn't stop me," she said "that's not what I want." She let her words sink in before continuing "I gave Emit an alternative but he chose not to listen and sent Peter instead.</div>
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Looking up hope springing to his eyes "Peter is very knowledgeable about time travel."</div>
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"It won't work," Quinn shook her head "maybe for a short time but it won't last." She shook her head "with your daughters here the imbalance remains. The dimension can't balance itself with them here. Peter needs to come back and the girls must take his place as time keepers. It's what they were born to do."</div>
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<div>
"They're too young," Chase protested.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
"They still need training" Quinn agreed "I will give you the time to teach them what they need to know. When the time comes they have to go. Once I start making changes I can't have them here destabilizing the present."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"My wife and I we'll still be able to contact them?" Chase asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yes like Emit is able to contact all the other time keepers across the dimensions," Quinn assured him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'll have to discuss this with my wife," Chase told her. He knew Quinn was right. He had known it since the day he found out Jennifer was pregnant. Meeting the fabled dimension watcher only highlighted how bad things were.</div>
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Phoenix went through the motions of checking on his dimension. It wasn't the same knowing he'd never see Quinn again. When she left she took his heart with her. He loved her so much despite knowing he could never be with her the way he longed to be. He should never have volunteered to become the dimension watcher. He could have been at home enjoying life.</div>
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<div>
Somehow he found himself at the rendezvous place. It was as empty as his heart was hollow. Somehow he had hoped she'd be here waiting for him. Hoped she would have changed her mind. To his chagrin and eternal disappointment she hadn't come. Hadn't changed her mind.</div>
<div>
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<div>
He sank to his knees holding his head in his hands giving in to the weakness he had been feeling. A wave of dizziness washed over him leaving him faint and nauseous. It was unusual for a watcher to become ill and if they did it was usually a punishment for some indiscretion. What was wrong with him he wondered as another wave of sickness overtook him. Unable to control it he found himself expelling his stomach contents all over the floor. Once the sickness passed he curled into a ball on the floor shivering. He had never felt more alone and isolated as he did at this moment in time.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-3474016001087641662016-11-13T08:12:00.003-06:002016-11-13T08:15:24.544-06:00Versatile Blogger Award<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="versatile-blogger-award-1" src="https://agrayingworld.files.wordpress.com/2016/10/versatile-blogger-award-1.jpg?w=642" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Thank you Legendofsim for the nomination, author of <a href="https://agrayingworld.wordpress.com/">A Graying World</a>. If you haven't read her story yet you should. It's a must read! There are twists and turns and surprises around every corner. It's a real page turner. I look forward to every update and so will you.</div>
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<div style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 15px; margin-bottom: 24px;">
<strong>The Rules:</strong></div>
<ol style="color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 15px;">
<li><em>Thank the person that nominated you and include a link to their blog.</em></li>
<li><em>Nominate at least 15 blogs of your choice.</em></li>
<li><em>Link your nominees and let them know of your nomination.</em></li>
<li><em>Share 7 facts about yourself!</em></li>
</ol>
<div>
<strong style="background-color: black; font-family: merriweather, georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 15px;">7 facts about myself:</strong></div>
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<strong style="background-color: black; font-family: merriweather, georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">1. I love snow; especially the light fluffy stuff that seem to dance as it comes down.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">2. I love to go to the beach whenever I get the chance. It doesn't happen often but I take advantage of every opportunity I get to see the ocean.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">3. I get inspiration for my stories from life, movies, tv shows and books I read. Basically I never know what will spark my imagination.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">4. I like to take long drives and listen to loud music; especially when I'm having a stressful day. It helps me feel better.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">5. If I could go anywhere right now I'd go to Alaska. That's kind of my dream vacation destination.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">6. I'll try something at least once. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">7. I hardly ever get mad and if I do I never keep grudges. Once it's over and the apologies have been made what's the point of holding on to it?</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: black; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<b style="background-color: black;"><span style="font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">My nominations are listed </span><a data-mce-href="https://dandylion240simstory.wordpress.com/2016/10/18/versatile-blogger-award/" href="https://dandylion240simstory.wordpress.com/2016/10/18/versatile-blogger-award/" style="font-family: merriweather, georgia, "times new roman", times, serif; font-size: 15px;">here</a><span style="font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;">. It's not fifteen but are stories I enjoy reading.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d596d; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: white; color: #3d596d; font-family: "merriweather" , "georgia" , "times new roman" , "times" , serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<strong style="background-color: white; color: #3d596d; font-family: Merriweather, Georgia, "Times New Roman", Times, serif; font-size: 15px;"><br /></strong></div>
DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-4653681514171243292016-11-05T13:56:00.002-05:002016-11-05T13:57:44.842-05:004.17 Going From Bad to Worse<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WyG0LfSgvwx7T4pF82xiH_f_7zkYqDOYRTe_IbV0sZlQ8u8Pr4ADw_6Ic4M3X1ko0ew_V-mGbN7jriNG5-ubN03vXbVMWzlzXCb4V4J0CajpGenteM2ByerhEaRzsIRywQBzx2jVvyUb/s1600/Screenshot-164.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3WyG0LfSgvwx7T4pF82xiH_f_7zkYqDOYRTe_IbV0sZlQ8u8Pr4ADw_6Ic4M3X1ko0ew_V-mGbN7jriNG5-ubN03vXbVMWzlzXCb4V4J0CajpGenteM2ByerhEaRzsIRywQBzx2jVvyUb/s640/Screenshot-164.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"Dad where are we?" Keenan's voice was hushed, worried despite his relief at not being where he was before.<br />
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"Wherever we are it's not with Silver," Adam said coming alongside him.<br />
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Nodding Keenan leaned into him "anywhere is better than where we were..."<br />
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Squeezing his son's shoulder Adam chuckled "I think we should get some rest. Who ever saved us will be coming to see us."<br />
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"What? Why?" Keenan asked following his dad over to the twin beds in the dark room.<br />
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"There has to be a reason why she saved us and brought us here," Adam explained "otherwise she would have sent us home." He yawned yearning to rest his head on the soft pillow. Close his eyes. Let himself switch off without fear of being molested.<br />
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"Dad," Keenan's voice carried a hint of worry "what do you think she wants?" He had no idea who she was or what she looked like. One minute he had been alone worried sick about what Silver was doing to his dad than the next he was here being hugged by his dad.</div>
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"I don't know son," Adam stretched out on the bed "which is why we need to get some rest. When she comes we need our wits about us." His voice drifted off, his even breathing and soft snore indicating he was already asleep.</div>
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Keenan glanced across at his dad. It had been days since his dad had been able to sleep. He yawned wanting to follow his example. Fear kept his mind awake, alert to every sound around him. He wanted crawl into the next bed beside his dad like he did when he was little. His biggest fear than had been the monster in the closet or the darkness under the bed. He squeezed his eyes shut willing sleep </div>
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to overtake him.</div>
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***</div>
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Alanon silently shook his head at the expectant faces of the two men sitting around his table. "I'm sorry" he muttered "without Adam the werewolves and vampires won't grant us excess to the vault."</div>
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"They can't do that," Chase cried slamming a fist onto the table sending their dinner dishes clattering and crashing to the floor.</div>
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"I'm barely able to keep them from declaring war," Alanon shouted at the man "I know your frustrated but you have to understand they think this is all an elaborate conspiracy by the humans. Take their ruler and the heir in the hopes that would somehow leave Moonlight Falls powerless." </div>
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Alanon stopped running a shaky hand through his long hair. His eyes sparkled as his magic bubbled to the surface. He had helped Adam bring peace to Moonlight Falls and now all their hard work was falling apart, "you know as well as I do how humans will react when a bunch of supernaturals descend upon their cities and homes."</div>
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"What can we do?" Caleb asked "we've talked until we turned blue. They won't listen. We know what needs to be done to correct this. They're being unreasonable." He had never liked confrontation or violence of any kind. Had never asserted himself when bullies pushed him around when he was a kid. Maybe living two lifetimes had changed him. Maybe this time he had something worth fighting for. Images of his son and daughter came to mind. "They're my children," he stated standing up "that's all I care about. Let them go to war if they're too stupid to help us."</div>
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"You don't mean that," Chase stood attempting to put a hand on his brother-in-laws shoulder.</div>
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Caleb turned giving the man a hostile glare before stomping from the room. The trouble was he did mean it. As much as it frightened him to admit it he did with every fiber of his being. His children were everything to him. He knew what life was like without them. He had always wanted children, longed for them but never did. It was like an unknown power had kept him from having what he wanted most. He had known a life without having the love of his life. His mind conjured up an image of Star than one of Drew as he held her tight after losing their first child, the oldest of the triplets. He'd be damned if he lost another child. Not if it was within his power to prevent it.</div>
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***</div>
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"Well?" the impatience in Don's voice brought a fleeting smile to Peter's face. </div>
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"I can operate it," Peter said stepping back "that's not the problem." He glanced at the boy's crest fallen stance "I'm sorry."</div>
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"But you said you could operate it," Don insisted "I don't see what the problem is."</div>
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Peter understood all too well Don's desire to get home. To be with his family. He had felt the same way when he had been trapped in the future. He took a deep breath preparing himself for the worst when he delivered the bad news. "Our dimension is closed. We can only go from one dimension to another if they're both open."</div>
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"Why is it closed?" Everett asked showing the first sign of interest in the portal since Peter started working on it several weeks ago. "It's never been closed before," he added his brow furrowing deeply.</div>
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"I don't know," Peter rubbed his chin "my guess would be someone closed it over there."</div>
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"So we're still trapped," Don growled pounding a fist into a nearby wall.</div>
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<div>
"At least you're not still aging backwards," Everett pointed out without thinking.</div>
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Whirling around Don glared at him "some comfort," he groused storming from the room stopping long enough to pick up Malachi. He was worried about the boy. It had been days since he had spoken more than a few words and even those had been mostly baby babble. Not the intelligent speech he was capable of.</div>
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<div>
He set the boy on his lap as he sat on a bench. A couple of people passed by commenting on how nice it was to see a teenager taking care of his little brother. If they only knew he thought. Once they had left and he had grown tired of the senseless speech bubbling from Malachi he demanded "what's wrong with you?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
Malachi gave him a mute glare before shrugging "nothing" he mumbled.</div>
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<div>
For months Malachi had been the only person Don had to talk to. He had come to rely upon him. Now since they had been kind of rescued he felt more and more isolated. "Why don't you talk to me anymore?" his voice was low sure he already knew the answer.</div>
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"I'm a nineteen year old trapped in a three year old's body," Malachi told him his voice shaking "I've been poked and prodded and for what? It can't be reversed. All my dreams and hopes are gone."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As much as Don wanted to tell him everything would get better he knew it wasn't true. Malachi would have to grow up all over again. It was different for him. Heath wouldn't age and sooner or later Don would once again surpass him in age. He would grow old while Heath remained the same. If anything this was a blessing in disguise. It gave them more time. "I'm sorry," he muttered feeling how inadequate those simple words really were.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"What's going to become of me?" Malachi asked "I can't go home. My parents would freak out. I can't be with Kimberly." He wiped at his eyes "it would have been better if I had ceased to exist."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Don't talk like that," Don demanded "I'll think of something. I promise I'll think of something." </div>
<div>
Already Don was thinking of people he knew who might want a child. He smiled knowing the perfect couple. Now he only had to get home and convince them they were perfect.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Heath noticed how the werewolves bristled every time their human guests left the house. He worried for his children's safety as they went to and from school. "Mom" he said catching Beverly as she came inside from shopping "do you know what's going on?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Placing the bags on the table she turned to him sighing "the vampires and werewolves are on edge. Without your father here to control the chaos they're talking war."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"War" the word left him feeling desolate like someone had yanked the rug out from beneath him "why?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Suspicion mainly. Old hatreds. Fear," she put her hands on the counter "it's not safe to be human right now."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Nodding Heath could feel the old paralyzing fear gripping his heart. He wished his dad or Don were here to help him. "Let's gather the kids together. It's time for a family meeting."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"You don't think we're in any danger do you?" she asked "we're related to Adam..."</div>
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He gave her a look that clearly said she was being naive. "It's better safe than sorry," he said. He had spent too long being chased by things that were beyond his control to believe anything like a blood relationship to their missing ruler would stop someone with hate in their hearts. They would see human first than attack. He felt like a frontiersman circling the wagons to secure against hostile Indians.</div>
<div>
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<div>
He reached in his mind to Kimberly "honey it's time to broadcast to the family to come home. Use the emergency broadcast so they know it's not a drill."</div>
<div>
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<div>
She complied with his request without question. Now wasn't the time for pointless discussion. Once she had completed her task she felt a hand clamp down on her shoulder. Looking up with startled eyes she found herself looking in the hostile eyes of a werewolf. The werewolf was someone she knew, her grandfather's chief guard, the elder of the werewolves.</div>
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<div>
"I have the girl" he growled into a device as she tried to break free of his grip.</div>
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<div>
Her strength paled in comparison to his. Unable to escape she did the only thing she could do. She called out to Heath in her mind "daddy they have me. I don't know why they want me or where they're taking me."</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Phoenix woke up lazily stroking the soft light green hair of the woman cradled in his arms. This was the way he wished he could wake up all the time. He knew they were breaking every rule in the book by being together. They were being selfish for doing something that would put both their dimensions in jeopardy. He knew he should put an end to this. His arms tightened around her, it was much much too late for that already.</div>
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He put a finger to her nose smiling when she batted his hand away. He did it again with the same results. The third time she growled "do it again and I'll send a lightning bolt up your butt..."</div>
<div>
Before she could stop him he leaned over kissing her soft lips cutting off her words of protest. </div>
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<div>
"Morning sunshine," he said as they pulled apart to catch their breaths.</div>
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"Sunshine huh?" she stretched her arms up almost purring.</div>
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His eyes followed her every movement, taking in her beauty. If only things were different he thought as he sat up holding his head in his hands. He should never have let things get this far. He felt a light touch on his bare shoulder. He looked into her eyes finding a profound melancholia in them. </div>
<div>
Squeezing his eyes shut he murmured "I wish things could be different."</div>
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Stroking his face she gently kissed his soft full lips "so do I. That's why we must savor the time we have together."</div>
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<div>
"What about the risks? The people who depend upon us to..."</div>
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"Shh" she pulled him close "this is our time. No worries no concerns about anyone but us."</div>
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"I know, it's just" he wanted nothing more than to let Quinn soothe his worries away. If only he hadn't volunteered. He would have had the life he always wanted. He thought he was doing the right thing "what if we get caught?" He couldn't stop thinking of all the people in his dimension. They didn't even know who he was or how easily their lives could be erased, reset, wiped from existence, forgotten in a blink of an eye. It was an awesome responsibility. One he didn't want to mess up if he could help it.</div>
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Sighing Quinn moved away from him. Her thoughts dwelling on the chaos in her own dimension that was now bleeding over into his. "I'm sorry," she said standing up "I should be going."</div>
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"Quinn" he said after watching her a moment "you know there isn't any other way."</div>
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"I know" she murmured giving him a sketchy smile. Her heart was shattering into a million shards. She should never have let things become so intimate between them. She should have kept things casual. He was so young, so inexperienced compared to the last dimension watcher. Phoenix's dimension had been reset once before. She knew Phoenix would do anything to keep that from happening again. She hugged her arms around herself regretting this momentary respite from their loneliness.</div>
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"Will I see you again?" he asked standing up from where they had made love just a few hours before. </div>
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Her eyes roved across his exquisite body "you know we can't," she tried to keep from looking into his beautiful blue eyes afraid she'd cave and agree to come back, to continue what they both knew was a bad idea.</div>
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"You should go then," he said knowing all along this was goodbye but he had to ask "what about us?"</div>
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"There is no us," she cried her chest heaving crushing her "there can never be an us."</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Quinn waited until Caleb Gray was alone before approaching him. Remotely she wondered what it would be like to be a mother. To have children she cared about more than life itself. It was a foreign concept to her. She was a selfish being, grown more so over the years she had spent alone watching over this dimension.</div>
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<div>
Being with Phoenix reminded her of what it was like to be alive. His innocence made her want to try again. Phoenix was supposed to be only a harmless flirtation. A distraction from the monotony. She never expected him to fall in love with her. Worse yet she never expected to care. She started off using him for her temporary amusement.</div>
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Shaking her head it didn't matter now. She wasn't going back. She had to fix all that was wrong with her dimension. If she fixed hers his would right itself. She owed him that. If it worked the way she thought it would the counsel would never find out about them.</div>
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<div>
"Caleb Gray?" she said approaching him. When she let Emit bring him here from Audric's dimension she knew Caleb's descendants would play a key role in saving this dimension. It was the only reason she had allowed it.</div>
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"Yes," he said turning towards her confusion lighting his face.</div>
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"I have a proposition for you," she told him amused by his wariness.</div>
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His eyes narrowed as he looked around. He knew he shouldn't have separated himself from Alanon's protection not while things were so volatile. "Who are you? he demanded.</div>
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"Someone who can help you," she evaded his question.</div>
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"How?" he asked interested despite himself.</div>
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"Your children are stuck in the future," she paused for effect "I can bring them home."</div>
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He stared at her blankly as if he didn't comprehend her words. "How?" he asked grabbing her arm "tell me now."</div>
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She laughed at his concern "let me go and I'll tell you."</div>
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With effort he released her arm. He watched her warily like he was afraid that she might vanish. Taking a step back he growled "how?"</div>
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She walked a small circle around him knowing she was just increasing his frustration and helplessness as she prolonged his wait. Would she be any different if it were her children? Impossible to know since she could never have children of her own. Wiping the thought from her mind she said "first you will have to agree to my terms."</div>
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"I knew there was a catch," he said his hands curling into fists. He took a step away trying to ignore her offer.</div>
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"What, leaving so soon?" she asked "you haven't even heard what the terms are."</div>
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"I don't need to know what they are," he told her anger causing his voice to become low and harsh "this is just a trick of some kind."</div>
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"You're smarter than you look," she quipped with a smile "I assure you I'm no trickster. I can help you. It requires a lot of power to bring someone back from the future. It can't be done for free." She stepped in front of him "aren't your children's lives worth it? The future as it is now is a dangerous place. They could die while you argue the moral issues of my offer."</div>
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"I...I'm not," he stammered torn between what he felt was right and the need to bring his children home.<br />
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"Let me show you what's happening right now," she offered as the air around them shimmered. Soon he was staring at a scene that looked like it could be from the most recent end of the world movie. He half expected zombies but mutants were just as bad. He squeezed his eyes shut unable to watch more as his children fought for their lives, "make it stop please," he begged.<br />
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"Do you agree to my terms?" she asked nonchalantly as if she hadn't seen a potentially dangerous situation unfolding before her a few moments ago.<br />
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"I...I can't," he stammered feeling as if he were condemning his children to a horrible death. His mind swirling with doubts as he wondered what would happen if he agreed to her terms. He had no way of knowing if she could do what she claimed.<br />
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Nodding she gave him a knowing smirk "I'll give you something you want to prove that I am capable of doing what I say I can."<br />
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With something like the sound of thunder she was gone and in her place lay a young girl with pink hair. "Emmaline," Caleb cried running to her. Dropping to his knees he held his daughter against his chest crying knowing the next time he was asked he'd do whatever that woman asked.<br />
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<b>Author's Note: </b>To learn more about Audric's dimension read <a href="https://agrayingworld.wordpress.com/">A Graying World</a>. To know more about Caleb and his family read <a href="http://simstoriesbydandylion.blogspot.com/">Not So Ordinary Life.</a><br />
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-83575376310201912212016-10-17T21:15:00.000-05:002016-10-17T21:15:59.805-05:004.16 Interference <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Once they were alone Peter gave Everett a long hard glare. The boy glared back never losing eye contact. Over the years Peter had learned to tell when someone was lying. They seldom held his gaze for any length of time. Satisfied Peter asked "what happened to Don and the boy?"<br />
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"I'm not exactly sure. Adam thought Silver must have reversed time somehow..."<br />
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"Aging backwards," Peter rubbed his chin "from past experience it could very well be permanent."<br />
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"It might be," Everett sighed looking away mumbling "it might cause problems for Malachi and Kimberly."<br />
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"She'll have to adjust," Peter said giving the young man an appraising glance "will you?"<br />
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"Me sir?" Everett asked taken aback "what do I have to do with it?"</div>
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"I've see the way you look at her," Peter told him "don't try to deny it."</div>
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Sighing he turned away from the older man. He seemed to hunch in upon himself "it won't work. We're literally from different worlds."</div>
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Not one to be dissuaded Peter asked "that aside, do you like her?"</div>
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A wistful half moan and sigh escaped from Everett's lips. "If it were possible to fall in love with someone in a few short weeks she'd be the one."</div>
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"Then do something about it," Peter encouraged him "if you love her tell her."</div>
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"I can't," Everett shouted as if he wanted whatever powers that existed to hear him "I belong here. Kimberly belongs there. What good would it do for either of us to tell her how I feel?" He wiped at his eyes surprised at the moisture he found there. It had been years since he had given way to tears. Not since his parents funeral. Even then he only remembered staring stonily ahead as if he were facing a firing squad. His brother had subbed inconsolably on his shoulder while his heart broke inside him.</div>
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"You need to tell her," Peter repeated "don't give up without even trying. Believe me you'll regret it."</div>
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"It's all a mote point if we can't operate the portal," Everett told him "Lincoln was the only one who understood how to operate it. He tried to show me." He waved a dismissive hand in the air "I'm hopeless when it comes to machines."</div>
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"Maybe I can figure it out," Peter offered. He refrained from telling the boy what he was thinking. If his younger brother was able to operate the portal than he was the one this dimension needed. Everett could leave this dimension without fear of consequences but only if he wanted to.</div>
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Heath walked past Kimberly's bedroom. A light shone beneath the door indicating she was still awake. Knocking softly he waited for a muffled response before pushing his way in. "Sweetie what are you doing still up?" he asked coming to sit on the edge of her bed.</div>
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"Oh daddy what am I going to do?" she leaned into him crying on his shoulder.</div>
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"You miss him don't you?" Heath asked unsure which boy he referred to. Malachi and Everett were both nice young men. Only one of them held his daughter's heart.</div>
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"You know it's both of them," she said refusing to acknowledge her changing feelings.</div>
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"Is it?" he asked "it's alright if your feelings have changed..."</div>
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"How could they?" she demanded "Malachi sacrificed himself to save Gwen. It wouldn't be right for me to dump him just because I met someone else." She brought a hand to her mouth horrified at the incriminating words betraying her true feelings "Oh daddy I'm a terrible person."</div>
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"No you're not," Heath hugged her tight "some people are only meant to be in our lives for a short time. Maybe Malachi accomplished his purpose in yours..."</div>
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"At what cost daddy?" she demanded eyes swimming in tears "aren't I supposed to feel something for what he did for us?"</div>
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Pushing her hair from her face Heath asked "is gratitude enough to marry someone you no longer love?"</div>
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"I d..." she meant to say I do but the word she almost said was I don't. She didn't love him. Not the kind of love two people should have for one another who they wanted to spend forever with. She loved his purple highlights, his pointy ears she had liked to trace with her finger tips. Loved his expressive green eyes. All those things weren't enough not compared with the strong arms that held her as she cried. The clean earthy scent of the man she hand grown to trust in a few short weeks.</div>
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"You did love him," Heath finished for her sensing the turmoil she was in "I can't tell you what to do sweetheart. Only you know what you feel. Consider this before you make any decisions. Who do you see when you close your eyes at night? Who holds you tight in your dreams? Then ask yourself if it would be fair to settle for the one who you only have a sense of gratitude towards. Gratitude isn't love. Sooner or later they'll sense it too. That would be far worse than just telling him." He kissed her cheek before getting up. Walking towards the door "good night sweetheart."</div>
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"Thank you daddy," she tried to smile but it felt stiff and lifeless. She knew her father was right. There was one person that filled her mind, her thoughts and her dreams. But did he feel the same?</div>
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Adam stared out the window. It seemed impossible that people were going on about their lives a few feet away while he and his son were trapped. What did Silver want from them? His skin prickled at the thought of that vile creatures touch. The lingering touch of his lips on his made him nauseous when he allowed his mind to dwell upon it. "Dad" Keenan said moving to stand beside him worry bright in his eyes.</div>
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Adam could see the question in the boys eyes. The one he had hoped to save him from asking. Pulling him close Adam held him a moment against his chest like he did when he was little after he woke from a nightmare. "What's on your mind?" he asked dreading what he knew was coming next.</div>
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"Will I become like him dad?" Keenan's voice quivered "will I become just as evil as him?"</div>
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"Son don't worry about that. You don't have to become anything like him. You have a choice" Adam spoke confidently knowing his son could never do the things Silver had done. His heart ached that his son could even believe he might even hold that within him.</div>
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"What about circumstances?" Keenan persisted his voice rising "what if Silver became what he is because he had no other choice?"</div>
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Sighing Adam put his hand on the boy's shoulder holding his gaze with his own. "Son it's possible that Silver is the way he is because of circumstances. We have no idea who or what he is." He spoke slowly keeping his gaze steady, calm "he still had a choice. Whatever his circumstances were he chose to become what he is. He didn't have to exert control over Ambrogio but he did. Silver chose to do that. Ambrogio when he had a chance he choose to help us. Silver could have done the same instead he chose to take your brother. Heath chose to resist him." Looking deep into his son's eyes he chose his words carefully "I have every confidence that you'll choose the right course to take. You may have his DNA but that doesn't mean you have to become like him. It's your choice."</div>
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The door opening behind them startled both of them. Hearts beating fast they turned to find the evil apparition of the man himself entering their room. Adam put a comforting hand on the boys shoulder. Keenan inclined his head to peer into his father's eyes drawing strength and comfort from him. Briefly he wondered how his dad could be so calm in the face of what Silver wanted from him.</div>
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Silver surveyed the room a slight smile quirked the corners of his mouth. He had expected one or both to be cowering on the floor in terror of his arrival. It was refreshing to be met by someone not in total fear of him. That could be dangerous...for them he thought stifling the desire to laugh. This was going to be fun. More fun than he had initially thought possible. "Come here," he demanded smiling as both father and son remained where they were "you won't like it if I have to come to you."</div>
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Silver's voice held a hint of malice and threat in it. Adam had no doubts he meant what he said. He took a step forward shoving Keenan behind him. "What do you want?" he demanded thankful his voice came out strong, authoritative like he was issuing commands to his guards.</div>
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"I want what's mine," Silver hissed reaching across and grabbing Adam's arm pulling him towards him. He bent Adam backwards forcing a wet, harsh kiss on him.</div>
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Breathing fast Adam struggled against him "I'm not yours" he snapped between clenched teeth.</div>
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"You will be," Silver said confidently. He kept a tight grip around Adam's wrists as he pulled him towards the door.</div>
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"Dad" Keenan cried his voice high in undeniable stress.</div>
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"Son" Silver said as if testing how the word felt as it rolled off his tongue.</div>
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Eyes snapping Keenan balled his hands into fists "you're not my dad."</div>
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"I could remedy that" Silver threatened.</div>
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"Don't you hurt him," Keenan screamed running forward reaching for Adam.</div>
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"Or you'll do what?" Silver taunted laughing as the boy backed away from them.</div>
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Adam locked eyes with his son "I'll be ok. Don't worry." He hoped he sounded as confident and reassuring as he meant to sound. He could see the fear and doubt in his son's eyes as Silver pulled him through the door.</div>
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As the door closed behind them Silver backed him against the door. "Alone at last," he said grinding his hips against him, "it's been too long since I've had the pleasure."</div>
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<div>
Adam attempted to push the man from him "no" he mumbled pushing harder against the man's chest "get off me."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Make me," Silver challenged mouth hovering over Adam's before crashing into him with a bruising, crushing, painful need.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Struggling Adam tried to push the man away. Silver's strength made Adam appear weak despite his superior Vampire strength. "Stop" he pleaded as Silver's hands groped his body.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Why should I?" Silver asked nibbling on his earlobe</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Silver" a woman's angry voice brought a groan of dismay from Silver as he reigned in his long awaited desire.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXryqr0cABAWMR97MNQpxdCVEyYOEXfeiBXAG62E1jWKC4xzKtD4zDQz9dLMotDfrtaRQXrqzxXN5Lz4m2RQ02jXk9inuJpjKGyxB5v1F6xWz5FUu3RdMzuW1cku89y4xC6RqrhiVImVu/s1600/Screenshot-1412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioXryqr0cABAWMR97MNQpxdCVEyYOEXfeiBXAG62E1jWKC4xzKtD4zDQz9dLMotDfrtaRQXrqzxXN5Lz4m2RQ02jXk9inuJpjKGyxB5v1F6xWz5FUu3RdMzuW1cku89y4xC6RqrhiVImVu/s640/Screenshot-1412.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
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<div>
<div>
"What do I owe the pleasure of your company?" Silver asked turning to face her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He's not for you," she said her voice causing the walls to vibrate with her anger.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He had my child," Silver snarled "we are bonded. That makes him mine."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Quinn's eyes focused on Adam "is that true?" Without waiting for him to answer she bore into his mind reading his thoughts, seeing his memories. "I see" she nodded turning to Silver "he belongs to another."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"That woman" Silver spat spittle flying every where.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
"Yes" Quinn calmly wiped the man's spit from her sleeves "he and his son are off limits."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You can't tell me what I can or can't do," Silver shouted sounding like a spoiled child defying his parent.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"On the contrary" Quinn snapped "I made you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Than you know what I said was true. He is bonded to me." Silver reached for Adam pulling him close "he had my child. We are forever linked."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No" Quinn shouted "he is not yours."</div>
</div>
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<div>
Whirling to face her Silver shouted "you can't undo what has been done. He is mine."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"His body may be yours" Quinn hissed back towards the angry evil creature "but his spirit is not."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I will fix that given enough time," Silver scoffed "that is no barrier to me."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Perhaps not," she shrugged "you may break his spirit. He may not fight you forever, few can although his is unusually strong willed. He may even give you more children." She stopped. Glared at Silver "but he will never love you."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What do I care about love?" Silver asked laughing as if she had told him joke.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vraz9If2bJ3kGsjnMNBNsZioL10TGCyNGBoWkrnGb6rYW7iRE8Me0Zf7gHIs8jI1pC59oNcMGBD_Gi49Uqx8YdfVN9LEJq7pChaoe-N3-hPSh-fZZqTOsoSo-uHzmY9qoTRT5F0VTUk4/s1600/Screenshot-1415.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5Vraz9If2bJ3kGsjnMNBNsZioL10TGCyNGBoWkrnGb6rYW7iRE8Me0Zf7gHIs8jI1pC59oNcMGBD_Gi49Uqx8YdfVN9LEJq7pChaoe-N3-hPSh-fZZqTOsoSo-uHzmY9qoTRT5F0VTUk4/s640/Screenshot-1415.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
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<div>
Shrugging she turned away from him as if he was of no concern to her "then you will never have what you want." With a flick of her wrist Adam vanished.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You can't do this to me," Silver charged towards her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I can do whatever I want," Quinn laughed enjoying his anger and helplessness "you've played havoc with my dimension long enough" she told him "it's time you played by my rules or suffer the consequences."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Rules? What rules?" he shouted "you aren't supposed to interfere with what happens here."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Is that so?" she rubbed her nails along her dress polishing them "there's a difference between not interfering and actively working to fix things."</div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mQF1LpKcowVlTh4jusaVSPND4KdNobx1SZ0wylUn7Zrk5_QZxSt_68esdsJeu3aoXZDMw6ix40oJ_Rb_Ieq_LqGhZkdbZYEHE2VR8R6r-kxrEZJ0xlLE40-tVzO60_kIlGtnLmisAvnK/s1600/Screenshot-1416.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0mQF1LpKcowVlTh4jusaVSPND4KdNobx1SZ0wylUn7Zrk5_QZxSt_68esdsJeu3aoXZDMw6ix40oJ_Rb_Ieq_LqGhZkdbZYEHE2VR8R6r-kxrEZJ0xlLE40-tVzO60_kIlGtnLmisAvnK/s640/Screenshot-1416.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
<div>
His eyes narrowed "since when do you care?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Since your antics woke me up," she advised him "all this time manipulation and experimentation hasn't gone unnoticed. It has to stop."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Or what?" he challenged "you'll kill me?" The mere thought of someone daring to think they could one up him was ludicrous "don't you remember? I'm your creation. If it weren't for you I wouldn't exist."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I haven't forgotten" her voice rose sounding like thunder "you're the reason I'm stuck here guarding this dimension."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"That's what you get for trying to help people," he smirked at her secure in the idea he was safe. No one else had the power to stop him and she was powerless to stop him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Quinn sighed at the truth of his words. This vile evil creature was her creation. He had to be stopped before the dimension was destroyed. The Watchers would calm down once he was gone. Adam had already solved the IF problem. It was Silver who kept unbalancing things. Without further comment she vanished from Silver's presence. She had what she came for.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
Instead of going immediately to check on her house guests she went to the rendezvous point. She melted into the warm embrace of Phoenix's arms. "How did it go?" his deep voice was soothing as his warm breath moved her hair.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Making a face she turned in his arms so as to rest her face on his chest "it went as well as could be expected."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Meaning Silver didn't take kindly to you taking his toys," Phoenix stroked her hair enjoying the feel of her in his arms.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"His toys" she snorted indignantly "they are people not possessions."</div>
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<div>
Chuckling softly he murmured against her hair "so you do care."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I always have," she countered stepping back "you make me want to do better."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Good" he gave her his brilliant smile the one that never ceased to make her smile back.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turning from him she sighed "Silver won't give up easily. I angered him by taking his bonded one from him."</div>
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<div>
<div>
"So they are bonded then?" he asked coming up behind her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"They are at least in body. The vampire resists his bodies urgings. His heart and spirit belong to another."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Mmm hmm" he murmured as he nuzzled her neck. His warm breath moving tendrils of hair around the nape of her neck.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're distracting me," she accused turning around to cup his face in her hands "what we're doing is dangerous."</div>
</div>
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<div>
"Forbidden you mean," he added inhaling her scent. He lowered his head to capture her lips with his. As they moved in rhythm with hers she moaned finding it impossible to resist him as his hands roamed across her body. "I want to make you mine," he told her pulling away from her with effort.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'd like nothing more" she told him looking deep into his eyes afraid he'd disappear if she didn't hold onto him "the counsel...."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What about the counsel?" Phoenix growled "they consigned us here to endless loneliness." He gave her a crooked grin "besides wasn't it you who said they weren't watching."</div>
<div>
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<div>
She traced his arched eyebrow with her index finger. She knew what they were doing was wrong, dangerous. As much as her brain told her no the more she couldn't resist his touch.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-79537704062384984072016-09-19T07:16:00.000-05:002016-09-19T07:16:09.014-05:004.15 On The Edge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
"Emit how could you let this happen?"<br />
<br />
Turning from the window Emit scowled at the woman who dared enter his home without permission . "Have a nice nap?" he growled at her turning his back on her.<br />
<br />
"I have many responsibilities" she yawned theatrically as she approached him at the window "I will not tolerate your insolence." Her eyes sparked with emotion as she took in the barren landscape "this would not have happened if you had listened to me."<br />
<br />
He shuddered rubbing his hands along his arms as if he were chilled "I couldn't." Meeting her gaze he drew in a deep breath bracing himself "I found another way."<br />
<br />
Smirking she let her gaze sweep over the desolate terrain that was once Oasis Landing "this" she waved her hands at the view "is preferable to sacrificing your happiness."<br />
<br />
"They're my grandchildren," he surprised even himself with how much of a plea that statement came out as. "I couldn't send them to another dimension."<br />
<br />
"They shouldn't even exist," she snapped at him "there presence disrupts the dimension."<br />
<br />
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<div>
<div>
"There has to be another way..." he mumbled unwilling to acknowledge the truth of her words.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I gave you what little options we had," she gave him a piercing glare "they were born to be timekeepers. They could have helped balance another dimension by filling that role. Instead you went against my orders further sliding this dimension towards annihilation."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I've done everything you've ever asked of me," he shouted "just give me this one thing. That's all I ask."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Sighing she crossed her arms refusing to meet his pleading eyes. She wasn't immune to his feelings. If she let herself she could be persuaded to give in but could she doom the entire world for one man? Nodding towards the window "this one thing costs too much. Look at the consequences. Emit if there was another way I would let you keep your family intact. This is the best I could do without eliminating them altogether from this dimension."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Emits eyes turned toward the window chest heaving as his eyes took in the emptiness where once a bustling city teeming with life once stood. "They're just kids. They're not ready for the responsibility of being time keepers."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I make those decisions," she snapped "because of your lapse of judgment this dimension is on the edge of falling."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Swallowing the gnawing fear clutching his heart. He knew when he had decided to send Peter instead of his granddaughters to the other dimension that there would be repercussions. He just hadn't realized how close to the edge this dimension was to crumbling to dust.</div>
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***</div>
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"Dad what are we going to do?" Keenan whispered as he helped Adam up from the floor where he had fallen after Silver left.</div>
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Shuddering Adam shook his head. Mind reeling over what Silver had just told him. Bonded? He felt the truth of Silver's words within his body. The way it responded to that vile creatures touch. Even as his mind recoiled from it his body craved it. "I think I'm going to be sick," he mumbled swallowing multiple times to keep the bile down.</div>
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Grabbing his dad's arm Keenan helped him into a small connected bathroom. He stood outside the door listening to his dad empty his stomach contents. Nibbling on his bottom lip Keenan knew this was all his fault. If only he had listened and kept his existence blocked from Silver. He only wanted to help keep Heath from falling into Silver's clutches again. Albeit his curiosity did play a role in his decision. He needed to see for himself what Silver was like not that he didn't believe the things he had been told. He had felt the truth deep within him. He had needed to confront the other half of his DNA. Form his own opinion. Adam was the only father he needed. He was the best person he knew and now thanks to what he had done Silver was going to beat him into submission. Hanging his head "I'm sorry" he mumbled turning away.</div>
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Splashing water on his face Adam reached a trembling hand out pulling Keenan close "it's not your fault."</div>
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"It is," shaking his head struggling to break his father's hold on him "if it weren't for me you wouldn't be bonded to him."</div>
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Squeezing his son Adam felt the boys shoulders shudder "that's not your fault. You're my son. There's not a day I regret having you. It's both our bad luck that Silver is what he is." What exactly that creature is he didn't know. He doubted he was what he had told Ambrogio all those years ago. Adam wondered if the bonding process was one sided. Don's ancestors descended down from Silver. Had that child been Ambrogio's? He was beginning to wonder if that was a lie intended to make Ambrogio willing to do Silver's bidding. </div>
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Ambrogio wasn't bonded to Silver. Adam could feel the truth of that within himself. He had never been attracted to a man before. He had always been faithful to his wife. Beverly's beautiful green eyes and red/gold hair flashed before his eyes. That's what makes this situation that much worse. He loved his wife yet his body reacted to Silver in away he wasn't sure he could control.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijS2w1ZqMxGV1Siq-t84bzASaJv8hGMLcNrjyeodr0dgwfj6QHpJF4IkOcKpEKJf__9jg5KNYxV6wAgHVznzt3uw46E_eMxvlR7xm9_FN1EWeRmJ7IMfVqGmLCdeQ1L0JJKCuvBR8-fjp2/s1600/Screenshot-1181.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijS2w1ZqMxGV1Siq-t84bzASaJv8hGMLcNrjyeodr0dgwfj6QHpJF4IkOcKpEKJf__9jg5KNYxV6wAgHVznzt3uw46E_eMxvlR7xm9_FN1EWeRmJ7IMfVqGmLCdeQ1L0JJKCuvBR8-fjp2/s640/Screenshot-1181.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"Dad" Keenan moved in his father's arms "it's not your fault either. Mom knows you love her and wouldn't do anything intentionally to hurt her."</div>
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"Are you reading my mind?" Adam said it more as a joke. </div>
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Keenan shook his head in response "I don't need to. I know you feel bad about what happened." Keenan looked up into his eyes "you don't have to. It's just going to make it harder to resist Silver." He smiled up at his dad "I know you can do it dad."</div>
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The boy's confidence brought a smile to his own lips. "I hope you're right," Adam said wishing he had the boys confidence.</div>
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"I am," Keenan asserted "your the strongest person I know." Keenan didn't add that he would bolster his dad's reserves. Help him fight Silver so he could resist. </div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Grabbing Don's arm Everett marched him towards where he and Adam had stashed the bikes. "Can you ride?" he asked.</div>
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"Yeah" Don gave the bikes and Everett a dubious look "it's been a while though."</div>
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Holding his arms out "give him to me" he ordered reaching for Malachi. </div>
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Don hesitated eyeing the young man before him "how do I know we can trust you?"</div>
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"Other than the fact Adam trusted me enough to bring him into my dimension" Everett shrugged "I don't know what to tell you."</div>
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Glancing over his shoulder Don considered his words. Sighing "I don't have a lot of choice do I?"</div>
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"Not really" Everett agreed taking Malachi from him. He suddenly felt old having what appeared to be a teen and a toddler looking to him for help. He had gotten used to relying upon Adam in the short time he had been with the Van Winkles.</div>
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"Where are we?" Don asked riding beside him.</div>
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"Lunar Lakes," Everett replied riding on in silence. It was strange that Kimberly's dad had the appearance of a sixteen year old kid. Worse yet he had her boyfriend on his shoulders. He tried to squelch the hope that rose unbidden in his heart that Malachi's condition would be permanent. They were still from different dimensions. He couldn't see how they could be together if they didn't live in the same world.</div>
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Stopping in front of his home Everett parked his bike. Don followed asking "how are we going to get home from here?"</div>
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Panic flitted across Everett's face making the scar upon his face pulse. "Damn" the word exploded from his mouth "I didn't think of that. It was always assumed Adam would be here to operate the dimension portal."</div>
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"Don't you know how?" Don asked heart falling as he wondered if he and Malachi were ever going to go home.</div>
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"We never considered the possibility that Adam wouldn't be with us. I gathered from everything that Silver was more interested in Heath than in Adam." Everett was pacing thinking out loud "I'm not any good with gadgets. Lincoln operated the portal when we went to your dimension."</div>
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As the first drops of rain began to fall Don sighed. "We better get inside before we get soaked and die of pneumonia." Glumly Everett nodded leading the way into his house. This wasn't the rescue either of them imagined</div>
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***</div>
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Peter stepped out of the time portal. His eyes drawn to the city of Oasis Landing. Sighing in relief that in this dimension it still existed. It was strangely devoid of all noises he would normally associate with a bustling city. It felt empty.</div>
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Moving away from the portal Peter entered Emits house. It too felt strange and wrong to be walking through the silent building like he was the only person alive. A thick layer of dust covered everything. No one had lived here in a long time. Peter knew this Emit had died almost a hundred years ago. It was an eerie feeling mourning a man he had never even met. Shaking his head Peter dismissed the gloomy thoughts.</div>
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He had things to do. On the top of his list was finding his son. He entered the control room scanning the machines. He had spent countless hours in a room similar to this one with his Emit in his dimension. He had thought Emit was his friend. He was wrong. Emit was using him. Manipulating him to do his bidding. Peter's fingers curled into fists. If Emit had walked into that room at that moment Peter would have given him a knuckle sandwich. He flipped a few switches, sighing in relief as everything appeared to be functioning as it should.</div>
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"You're not supposed to be here," a man's voice startled him.</div>
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Turning Peter faced his unexpected visitor "don't I know it," he mumbled under his breath. He found himself facing a young man with flaming red hair and piercing blue eyes. He had a pleasant demeanor that hid his intentions.</div>
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"Why are you here?" the man asked.</div>
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Shrugging Peter crossed his arms before replying "Emit Relevart from Dimension 1324XZAD sent me."</div>
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Eyes widening a little the man nodded rubbing his chin "you're not who I was expecting."</div>
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This time it was Peter's turn to ask "who were you expecting?"</div>
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"Two young girls," the man grunted in response "since you seem to know what you're doing I'll leave you to it."</div>
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"Wait why am I here?" Peter asked but the man had already vanished leaving Peter to wonder what just happened. "Strange" he muttered to himself dismissing it as a dimensional difference.</div>
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Turning his attention back to what he had been doing before he had been interrupted. Frowning Peter muttered "he should be here." He flipped a few more switches searching. His concern mounting running his hands through his hair. Adam was nowhere to be found. Mumbling to himself "Everett better have a good explanation for my son's disappearance." For his sake Peter hoped the boy wasn't involved.</div>
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***</div>
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"Dad," touching his arm Kimberly stopped him from entering the house "what are we going to tell grandma?"</div>
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Turning to his daughter, her face a mirror of his sadness and worry, he said "the truth." Looking up to the house "it will do no good trying to hide it from her. It may be some time before we find Keenan."</div>
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"She's going to be upset," she worried her bottom lip "what if we never find him?"</div>
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"Anything is possible," he agreed putting his hands on her shoulder "but we won't give up hope."</div>
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"I suppose," she mumbled eyes filling with tears "will we ever be free from Silver and his harassment?"</div>
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"I hope so," he pulled her close "I really really hope so."</div>
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Sniffling Kimberly moved from her fathers arms "we better go tell grandma."</div>
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Sighing Heath took her hand "you don't have to come with me. I'll tell her."</div>
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She glanced at the house than at her father's worried face "no that's ok. I'll come."</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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"I'll sleep on the couch if you and Malachi want to take the bed," Everett offered setting Malachi down in the room.</div>
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"Where are we?" he asked looking up at the stranger.</div>
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Scratching his head Everett found it difficult to accept this toddler was really an eighteen year old college student. It was surreal to say the least. "You're in Lunar Lakes." Turning to Don he smiled "we think this is the place Silver has used to create what you thought of as bubble universes. We knew some sort of experiments were taking place there. Most citizens are too afraid to go near the place."</div>
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"I don't think I've ever heard of Lunar Lakes before" Don rubbed his chin deep in thought. He had vague recollections of his parents discussing a failed expedition to another planet. Could this be it?" </div>
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"This is actually a parallel dimension to yours. Where your Lunar Lakes expedition failed our succeeded." Everett shrugged "there are other differences but it's a bit late to go into them right now."</div>
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<div>
Don nodded but there was one more thing he needed to ask "did you see my husband? My children? How are they?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everett knew he would ask. It was only reasonable for him to do so. He expected it. What he didn't expect was the pang of regret he would feel. "Yes sir they're all safe in Moonlight Falls." He tried to keep his eyes focused on Don but they strayed towards Malachi. The stricken pain filled eyes tore at his heart reigniting the guilt he felt. He should never have let himself develop feelings for Kimberly, a girl he knew wasn't available. Despite that he found himself wondering what his chances were if Malachi couldn't be returned to his normal state.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A noise from outside the house saved him from having to reflect too deeply on his feelings. He ran </div>
<div>
towards the stairs followed closely by Don. Rounding the corner of the house Everett pulled up sharp gasping "Peter?" as a man stepped out of the time portal.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Everett you better have a damn good reason why my son isn't here with you." Peter's angry voice was shocking even to Don as he ran up beside Everett.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
"It wasn't his fault," Don said recovering first.</div>
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Eyes snapping to the boy. With shock Peter realized who the boy was. He had expected a man in his mid thirties instead he was staring at a sixteen year old kid. "Don is that you?" his voice was low stunned.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It's me sir," gesturing to Everett he sighed "he didn't have anything to do with Adam's disappearance. It was Silver. Silver took him."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What does he want with Adam?" Peter asked "did you tell Silver about Keenan?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Cringing at the unexpected accusation Don shook his head. "I never told him anything. I never saw Silver all the time I was trapped."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Sorry son," Peter put a reassuring hand on the boys shoulder "I'm just trying to make sense of all of this. We'll get him back." Turning to Everett "I'm sorry."</div>
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<div>
<div>
"It's ok" Everett mumbled "it was to be expected I guess."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Something in the boys demeanor caught at Peter's heart. "Son you shouldn't expect people to think the worst of you. That's never acceptable."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Um" he looked away overwhelmed by the concern emanating from the older man. Maybe he had gotten too jaded by the way people treated him after his parents died and his face was scarred for life. He could see it in their eyes, the pity, the disgust, the fear. Seldom had he found acceptance for his deformity.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Don why don't you go inside and get some rest," Peter suggested as they moved inside the house "there's some things I need to discuss with Everett."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Reluctantly Don nodded feeling very much out of the loop and being treated like a child.</div>
</div>
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***</div>
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<div>
Beverly met them at the door "have you seen Keenan?" she asked fear brightening her eyes.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Mom" Heath's voice was deep as he took her by the arm and escorted her into the living room "we need to talk."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shaking Beverly let him pull her into the living room. "What happened?" she cried "where's my </div>
<div>
son?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Grandma you should sit," Kimberly suggested concerned for the older woman's welfare.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No I will not sit down," she shouted "not until someone tells me what happened?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Mom please," Heath attempted only to be shot down by the withering glare she gave him. "I'm sorry. Silver took him."</div>
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Blinking she sank onto the nearest couch breath catching in her throat "how? Silver didn't know about him..." words dribbled out of her mouth in incomprehension. "We have to find him," she cried grabbing Heath digging her fingers into his forearm.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Mom" Heath shook his head "we don't know where to look. Silver could have taken him anywhere."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"He wouldn't be in this predicament if it weren't for you," she cried.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Grandma that's not true," Kimberly protested "we didn't know Keenan was following us."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turning towards the girl Beverly crumpled into herself sobbing. Keenan wasn't her biological child but she loved him just the same. She felt Heath wrap his arms around her, offering her what comfort he could. How much longer would Adam put up with her putting his children in danger. First she almost killed Heath now she let Keenan fall into the evil clutches of Silver. Guilt twisted her insides tearing her up.</div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
Phoenix waited for Quinn at their rendezvous site. "Your late," he growled upon sight of her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're early," she retorted with a smirk. She sidled up to him giving his pouty lips a long sensuous kiss. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
He pushed her away from him with effort "you know we shouldn't..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Why because the counsel might catch us?" she gave him a pitying look "they haven't noticed our dimensions falling around our ears. Why would they bother with us?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It's a distraction we don't need," he looked away from her enticing eyes "we need to focus on fixing what went wrong in our dimensions." He ran a hand through his long red hair "if you dimension falls so will mine." The thought of that happening sent an unexpected pang in his heart. He had grown to care for the people that he was in charge of. Quinn was a good distraction but one he didn't need not if it meant millions of people would lose their lives. Looking at her he tried another tactic "if your dimension is reset we won't be able to see each other."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You would find someone else" she yawned giving the impression she didn't care.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Please won't you at least try?" he asked her.</div>
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<div>
<div>
Considering his words she sighed "don't you ever want a normal life?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Yes more than anything but that's not my destiny nor yours," he told her.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turning her back to him sighing "it's a runaway train going faster and faster towards oblivion."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"There has to be a way," Phoenix insisted.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Rolling her shoulders pouting "I can't be bothered to come up with another plan. I had a solution but Emit didn't do as he was told."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"The girls?" Phoenix asked "Peter can't stay here. He doesn't belong." Getting up he paced his room "give me time I'm sure I can come up with something that might work for both our dimensions."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You'd do that for me?" she batted her eyes at him. It had been so long since she had the pleasure of a little flirtation. She was rusty as hell but Phoenix didn't seem to notice. It might be fun to try, to care again.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>Author's Note:</b> Quinn was made by legendofsim. The concept of dimension watchers was created by her as well for her story <a href="https://agrayingworld.wordpress.com/2016/09/16/5-50-faltering-dimensions-and-a-poll-for-gen-6/">A Graying World </a> If you haven't read this story check it out. It's a great read.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-165736986635758072.post-37035262374714602322016-09-05T17:54:00.000-05:002016-09-05T17:58:28.986-05:004.14 Mine<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Emit frowned at the settings as he made adjustments. "You know this is wrong," Peter panted from inside the machine "please let me go."<br />
<br />
"Sacrifices need to be made" the blue haired man mumbled. He threw a switch. Peter's screams drowned out whatever reply he would have made.<br />
<br />
Lunging for the controls Lincoln attempted to knock the older but larger man aside. "Can't you see your hurting him," his fingers slid past the switch as Emit knocked him to the floor.<br />
<br />
"You stupid little boy," Emit kicked him aside "this is for the greater good."<br />
<br />
"You're delusional," Lincoln spat holding his side "can't you see this isn't the way."<br />
<br />
Emit glared at the young man writhing on the floor in obvious pain from the kick he had delivered. Peter lay slack in his bonds, mouth drooping, head lolling to the side. Remorse prickled the periphery of Emit's mind. How could he justify what he was doing? Peter had always helped him when he had asked. Was it so wrong to put family first? Chase, his granddaughters, they were all important to him. Would he want their memories ripped from him?<br />
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<br />
He knew the right answer. Knew he couldn't go through with what he was doing. He knew the moment he stopped, the future would change. The moment he stopped his worst nightmare would be realized. Oasis Landing would be no more. He had seen it happen once. He was powerless to stop it. Worst of all it was all his fault.<br />
<br />
In a daze he pulled the switch cutting off the power. Releasing Peter from his bonds. In a haze he heard Peter's muffled thanks as he watched the scene unfold before his eyes. The sky grew dark as the ground shook. Screams of panic filled the air only to vanish a few seconds later. Silence ensued. Oasis Landing was no more.<br />
<br />
Stumbling to his knees Emit let out a howl as if he were being tortured. Lincoln gaped open mouthed at him. "What's happening," he screamed as the shaking continued as if the ground beneath them wanted to swallow them.<br />
<br />
"It's the end of everything," Emit cried collapsing on the floor.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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<div>
<div>
Adam leaned against the wall absorbing the information Everette was providing. He asked few questions preferring to just listen. When Everett's monologue ran down, Adam nodded rubbing his chin. "There must be a door through the force field. The trick will be finding it."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Won't we be affected by the time distortions if we go in there?" Everette asked.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"We won't be in there long enough to be affected" Adam assured him "the important thing will be getting Don and Malachi out."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You're right," Everett agreed despite his foreboding. At this point he didn't know if his misgivings were founded upon tangible evidence or dread that once Malachi was back in the picture again Everett would lose all hope of getting Kimberly. "We better be going," he said gruffly moving past Adam.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Son if you want to talk about..." Adam was about to offer when the young man shot him a withering look "alright have it your way. The offer stands if you change your mind."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Nodding he led the way from the house. "We shouldn't go into town by taxi. It might draw to much attention since it's so late."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"It'll take too long to walk," Adam sighed "are there any other modes of transportation?" he asked looking around.</div>
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Chuckling a little at the vampires expense Everett replied "other transportation yes. Faster than walking yes." Giving Adam an appraising glance "can you ride a bike?"</div>
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<div>
Adam gave him a dubious look "it's been years." He followed Everett to the side of the house where two bikes stood. "I guess we'll find out if the old saying's true." He followed Everett, at first his balance was precarious as he wobbled around swerving from side to side on the road. As they continued he became steadier, picking up speed. Coming alongside the younger man "I guess you really don't forget how to ride a bike."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Nodding Everett rode beside him in silence too deep in thought to talk. Kimberly's eyes kept coming to mind. Looking up at him entreating him to help her. Helping her meant giving up his dreams. Dreams he had no right having. He couldn't have her. They belonged in different dimensions.</div>
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<div>
Coming to a stop in front of the vacant lot. Everett knew what he had to do Even if it meant breaking his own heart he had to make sure Malachi was reunited with Kimberly. He loved her that much. Her happiness meant more than life itself. Turning to Adam who had come to a stop beside him "what do we do now?"</div>
<div>
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<div>
"First let's hide these bikes somewhere out of sight," Adam suggested scanning the area for a good hiding spot. "Then I'm going to use my vampire sight to find where the door is."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Nodding Everett peered at the empty lot. Putting a hand out he could feel the sizzle and heat from the force field. To his eyes he couldn't see anything. </div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
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Malachi sat staring at the cartoon characters. It was boring. His eyes strayed to the large window where a bright flash attracted his attention. Looking behind him towards the couch where Don lay in a heap. Should he mention it to him?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Shaking his head he moved towards the window electing not to bother him. Despite his appearance he still maintained his intellect and previous memories. The flash appeared again. He couldn't believe his eyes. Someone was on the sidewalk forcing his way through the force field. It seemed the harder he pressed against the energy barrier the brighter the flashes became. In his eagerness, he pressed his small fists to the window as he screamed "Adam. It's Adam."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Don sat up rubbing his eyes distracted from his dark depressing thoughts by the commotion Malachi was making. "What are you doing?" he asked stretching the kinks from his spine from too many hours of inactivity. Joining Malachi at the window he watched as Adam squeezed himself through an opening in the field.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Forgetting about Malachi he ran from the room, down the stairs to meet Adam as he came through the opening. In his excitement he grabbed Adam's flailing arm and pulled him through. "I'm so happy to see you," Don shouted throwing himself into Adam's arms.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Taken by surprise it took Adam a moment to realize the teenager was his son-in-law. "What happened to you?" he asked staring at the boy in disbelief.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"We're aging backwards," Don looked back towards the house "we have to hurry. Malachi doesn't have much time left."</div>
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"Get him," Adam commanded "I don't know how long we can hold the opening." Adam watched as the boy turned and ran wishing he could use his vampiric speed to get the boy himself. His strength was needed to hold the door open. Everett couldn't do it on his own.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Don raced up the stairs almost tripping over Malachi as he reached the first landing. Scooping the boy up Don turned and fled down the steps. As he neared Adam a bright flash appeared and the vile sneering face of Silver appeared cutting off their escape.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Silver let them go," Adam demanded.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Turning Silver laughed his hyena bark "I don't need them anymore." His eyes glittered sending chills down Adam's spine.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Without taking his eyes from the evil menace before him Adam motioned for Don to approach. Cautiously Don stepped around the apparition expecting to be yanked back at any moment.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Adam waved to him to hurry up and with a sideways glance at Silver he slipped past him. "Go" Adam commanded through clenched teeth his eyes fixed on Silver watching his every move.</div>
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<div>
<div>
"Not without you," Don protested knowing he couldn't face Heath if he left Adam behind.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Don't worry about me," Adam advised him. When Don was halfway through he called out to him "tell my family I love them." He stepped aside letting his side of the opening close hoping Everett could keep his end open long enough to get the kids out.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"Good decision," Silver nodded in approval.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"What do you want?" Adam asked trying to ignore his repulsion of the man's gloating sneer.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Only what belongs to me," Silver shouted causing Adam to take several steps backwards pressing into the force field behind him.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I'm not yours," Adam told him taking several deep breaths.</div>
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<div>
"We're connected through the child you bore," Silver closed the gap between them "my child," he hissed sending spittle into Adam's face.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"How?" Adam swallowed "how did you..."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"How did I find out?" Silver asked wrapping his hands around Adam's throat "he told me. I was all set to take that sniveling weakling of yours when he tried to save him." His fingers tightened cutting off Adam's oxygen. "All the time I wasted on him when I already had what I wanted."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"You can't have my son," Adam struggled in the man's grip.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I already have him," Silver corrected "I only need you to complete my happy little family." With that he snapped his fingers causing them both to vanish into thin air.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Everett and the others stumbled to the ground as the energy surrounding them disappeared. They stared in bleak fascination at the building where Don and Malachi had been trapped for months. </div>
<div>
"Adam" they called out knowing it was futile gesture.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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The severe ground shaking and the wild screams of people panicking around them penetrated their consciousness keeping them from maintaining their connection with Keenan. "What's happening?" Kimberly shouted above the chaos</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I don't know," Heath shook his head keeping a firm hold on his daughter afraid if he let go she would be swept up in the mad dash from the park.</div>
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<div>
Once they were alone and the ground stopped shaking Heath helped Kimberly up. "Can you reach either of your grandparents?" he asked after failing to contact them himself.</div>
<div>
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<div>
"I'll try," she closed her eyes to help calm her mind. Sighing she reached for his hand trying to boost her ability "no it's no use. I can't reach them." She crawled into his arms seeking comfort "what's happening daddy?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Stroking her long dark hair he sighed "I wish I knew."</div>
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"I have a feeling it's bad," her voice small like she was a little girl afraid of the dark "it's very bad." </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Heath held her close wishing he could give her some reassurance that it wasn't as bad as she thought. Every fiber in him was shouting at him that something drastic had changed. There was only one thing he was sure of "your grandparents will do everything they can to fix this. Grandpa is in Oasis Landing..."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Can we trust Emit?" she wondered aloud. She of all people could sense his intentions being a descendant no matter how far in the future.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"I hope so," Heath murmured "I really really hope so."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"Then there's Grandpa Adam. He's going to rescue Malachi and dad," she sounded confident in her grandpa's ability to do anything.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Smiling Heath remembered feeling the same way about his dad. In many ways he still did. "I guess we have nothing to worry about than." He kissed the top of her head. They both knew that wasn't the case but it sounded good.</div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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Keenan lay curled in upon himself on the dirty floor where Silver had thrown him. It took all of his concentration to keep his defenses up. To keep Silver from invading his mind. It had been so stupid confronting Silver the way he had. He should have kept the necklace his dad had given him to keep Silver from detecting him.</div>
<div>
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<div>
The brief contact with Silver's vile thoughts was enough to confirm the man's evil nature. Pushing himself into a sitting position he wondered why Silver had locked him inside this room. Pushing out with his mind he tried to connect with anyone in the outside world. Nothing. Nothing but static. He was alone to endure whatever evil vile thing Silver had in store for him. Remembering the man's words Keenan shrank into himself. If being strong meant being like him he would rather be weak.</div>
<div>
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<div>
A noise outside his door had him scrambling to the far corner. He pulled himself to his feet preferring to face Silver on his feet then cowering on the floor. Whatever power Silver possessed Keenan had it too. He wondered if he could tap into it without it over powering him. Could he use it without it changing him? Knowledge was a powerful thing once you used it you could never unknow it. It became a part of you. Could he tap into the evil without becoming evil?</div>
<div>
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<div>
A man was pushed inside followed by Silver's shard hyena barking laugh. "You should have known better than to hide my son from me." He kicked at the figure lying prone on the floor.</div>
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<div>
A muffled moan from the man had Keenan moving from where he stood. Reaching for the dark haired man his eyes lighting up in recognition. "Dad" he cried out sensing rather than seeing Silver maneuver around for another kick. "Stop" Keenan screamed "he's done nothing to you."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDCKRjsW2vCoVY85kIHKnpCFkJBYSGhh6Sy4shgiRoo8nGUqcgB5JLpWo751q2sCuU5903kLSezRjCA847DKHRLMA2Q5jT7LXbNsDg6blxtwOJuo-eghYOd3LigN9-jv7c-CEd24rxtkS/s1600/Screenshot-974.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnDCKRjsW2vCoVY85kIHKnpCFkJBYSGhh6Sy4shgiRoo8nGUqcgB5JLpWo751q2sCuU5903kLSezRjCA847DKHRLMA2Q5jT7LXbNsDg6blxtwOJuo-eghYOd3LigN9-jv7c-CEd24rxtkS/s640/Screenshot-974.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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"Nothing," Silver growled "what do you call hiding my son from me?"</div>
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<div>
"Protection," Keenan said keeping his face neutral devoid of all emotion.</div>
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<div>
"We'll see how much protection he can provide now," kneeling he stroked Adam's cheek.</div>
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<div>
Adam glared up at him eyes swimming with undisguised hate. "What do you want from me?" He attempted to jerk his face away from Silver's touch.</div>
<div>
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<div>
Increasing his grasp Silver sneered into Adam's face "I remember your body well."</div>
<div>
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<div>
Adam shivered struggling to get away from the man's touch. Silver lifted him to his feet forcing a kiss on him "I look forward to exploring it again."</div>
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"Don't you touch him," Keenan shouted trying to break the man's grip on his dad.</div>
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<div>
"Together we'll produce more progeny," he licked Adam's neck moaning "this time you'll remember my touch. Your body will crave mine. Even now you can feel it."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
"No" Adam shouted attempting to push away from Silver who made his considerable strength look feeble in comparison. "I won't."</div>
<div>
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<div>
"You won't be able to stop me," Silver pressed in closer "you may not have inhabited your body when the boy was conceived but your body was. It carried my seed. We are bonded now. You are mine."</div>
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"That's why you wanted Heath. He could produce children," Adam felt nauseous thinking about what Silver wanted from him. </div>
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"Funny how things worked out isn't?" Silver released him taking a couple of steps back "I wanted Ambrogio but he needed a body. Yours was perfect. Ambrogio didn't know you were capable of having children otherwise he would never have allowed you to go along with his plan. When he proved disloyal I moved on to Heath. He was docile and could be easily overpowered." Walking towards the door he stopped giving Adam a nasty grimace "I look forward to breaking your spirit. It's been so long since I've had the pleasure."</div>
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<b>Author's Note:</b> Now that Don and Malachi have been rescued I need help in deciding who should be with Kimberly. So I'm turning to you the readers to see who you would like to see with Kimberly. Please vote for you favorite. The poll will be open for a week or so and you can vote however many times you would like.</div>
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DandyLion240http://www.blogger.com/profile/01133336441627085942noreply@blogger.com4