Lord Alexander’s elite army resided at the outskirts of a small village. The entire village was masked in blistering flames. Screams echoed in the distance. The members of the army fanned out feasting on the residents. Soon, this village would be reduced to mere ash another casualty to this war.

Their commander Angel stood at the feet of three graves. He wore a white long sleeved shirt with a solid black shirt over it. He had on a belt with a skull design on the buckle. He wore a pair of distressed blue jeans and black converse shoes. His pale hazel eyes stared at the graves as he marked them with three curses. The curses were all of the same drawing. The shape of an elegant black rose. This particular curse had no purpose. He used it to mark the graves of those that held a special place in his heart.

“Forgive me,” He kneeled before the graves paying his respects.

The gentle currents of the wind rustled through his soft mocha hair. The long strands of his hair stopped just before reaching his shoulder blades. In his hand, he held his most prized possession. It was a platinum ring which he kept attached to a chain around his neck. The front of the ring was shaped like an enraged wolf head. The beasts’ fangs were bared. The eyes of the wolf were filled with tiny sapphires. This ring reminded him of the man he was before he took on the cursed life of a vampire.

“What’s with the graves?” Selene ran her fingers through her sunflower blonde hair. The stream of her locks parted resting at the center of her neck. Her slightly pale skin was covered by white long sleeved shirt with a cropped black shirt resting over it. She wore distressed blue jeans and black converse shoes. Her pale blue eyes were fixated on the graves Angel made. “Were they someone important?”

“It’s nothing,” Angel slowly rose to his feet. “There’s not much time left.” Angel’s eyes stared up at the sky.

The light of the moon was blocked by several clouds. Soon, those clouds will part and a full moon will dawn on them. He and his team had to return to Dusk castle before then.

“Changing the subject?” Selene chuckled. “Oh well,” She crossed her arms. “It’s none of my business anyway.” Her pale blue eyes glanced up at the sky.

“Should I,” Selene reached into the pocket of her jeans. She casually took out a vial and tossed into the air. “Give the signal?” She caught the vial showing little effort. Inside it, she kept some of her blood which acted as a deadly explosive.

The gentle currents of the wind rustled in Angel’s hair. His eyes lingered on the parting clouds only for a second. “Do it, there’s not much time left.” He ordered.

“As you wish,” Selene tossed the vial into the air. She snapped her fingers. In an instant the vial shattered unleashing a violent explosion. The entire night sky began to ignite in a dark red light. “That should get their attention.” She crossed her arms leaning against a tree.

“How’s training going?” Selene asked. “Rumor has it that Lord Alexander has taken you on as his student.” Strange, that was supposed to be a secret. Then again, the Vampire Lord’s daughter is among her best friends. She most likely told Selene about her father’s little secret.

“Typical Blaire move,” Angel let out a sigh. “I was asked to keep our training sessions a secret.” He replied. “My only request is that you keep it that way. You know as well as I do. What will happen if word gets out that the King is training me. People will start asking questions and sooner or later.”

“People will start to think that you're going to be his replacement.” Selene crossed her arms. “A rumor like that gets out and,” She ran her thumb across her throat. “Blaire will see to it that her spot on her father’s throne is secure.” She ran her fingers through her hair. “She’s been wanting that throne since birth. I’d hate to be the guy that stole it right from under her.”

“Exactly,” Angel agreed. “Which is why rumors like that can’t get out.” He pointed out. “It’s not even true, Blaire is getting the throne. It’s her birthright, Lord Alexander promised it to her. I doubt he’d go back on his word.” He leaned his back against a tree.

“It’s just,” Selene crossed her arms. “It’s rare for Lord Alexander to take interest in anyone.” She glanced up at the sky. “Not even his own daughter gets that kind of recognition.” She let out a sigh. “I’m still not even sure why he thinks you're so special.” She stared into Angel’s eyes. “I was hoping that maybe,” She walked up to him. “You could clear that up for me. So,” She ran her fingers through her hair. “Any ideas?”

“I’m not sure,” Angel stared at his hands. “The only thing that separates me from the other vampires is my ability. Even so,” He closed his hands. “It’s only curses.” He explained. “Besides, if you want answers.” He walked up to her. “You’re going to have to answer a few of my questions.” He crossed his arms. “You could have told me that you were second in command when we first met in the hall. Instead,” He paused. “You waited.” He stared into her pale blue eyes. “Why?” Selene let out a deep sigh.

“I didn’t want to, simple as that.” Selene walked past him. “Let me break this down for you in a way you can understand.” She turned to face him. “You are Blaire’s play thing. I always place second to her play thing.” She leaned against a tree. “It doesn’t matter how much stronger I am than him. It doesn’t matter how much knowledge I have over the position. I still place second. Second, never first,” She shook her head. “Most of the time,” She laughed. “The guy is a complete asshole and doesn’t give a shit about us. We’re just his pawns. So tell me,” Selene crossed her arms. “Would you like to place second to a guy like that?”

"I see,” Angel let out a sigh. “Well I’m not like them. Or at least,” He placed his hand on her shoulder. “I don’t want to be,” This team, they are the closest thing he was ever going to get to having friends. Given his situation, he needed all the friends he could get.

“I can tell,” Selene removed his arm from her shoulder. “You are nothing like her other suitors.” She pointed out. “Unlike them,” She stared into his eyes. “You don’t just assume authority and well,” She chuckled. “You do things in a different way. I thought you were strange at first.”

“Strange is being a vampire,” Angel’s eyes lingered on his pale skin. “I’m not exactly used to any of this.” He glanced over at her. “Was I really that bad during the introductions?” Selene laughed, placing her hand on his shoulder. “Come on,” He reasoned. “I couldn’t have been that bad.”

“You weren’t bad,” Selene replied. “You were just different.” She added. “Usually when I try to introduce the commander to his team.” She glanced over at him. “I try to do it from a distance. It’s much safer that way,” She reasoned. “He’s less likely to get his head chopped off.” She smirked. “Still meeting them in person,” She laughed. “That takes some balls.”

The two of them faced the burning village as two of their teammates emerged. The first to catch Angel’s attention was Ziek. The right side of his raven colored bangs stopped just before reaching his pale blue eyes. He often wore a solid black muscle shirt to show off his well built physique. He had on black leather fingerless gloves that had a solid diamond plate on the knuckle. He dressed distressed blue jeans with a studded belt. He wore standard black tennis shoes.

Angel knew Ziek from his previous life. He was once known as Eric Ravenheart. The older brother to his best friend Erika. The proof of his lineage rested on the left side of his neck. He had a tattoo of a raven with its wings spread out encased in a heart. It was no surprise to Angel why Lord Alexander sought to turn him.

Ziek is no doubt skilled in combat. The guy used to compete in tournaments. He had a record of never losing a match. It was that record that landed him in high demand. Even though he hung up the gloves when his sister moved in with him. His reputation precedes him, which is why Lord Alexander forced him to change his name from Eric to Ziek. Like most Vampires, Ziek also has a special ability.

Ziek’s ability is progression. The longer the fight drags out the stronger he becomes. It doesn’t take him long to even the odds. With each passing second, his speed gets higher, his durability gets higher, and it never stops growing until the fight is over. He’s even found a way to significantly increase the results. It’s as simple as taking a deep breath and focusing. That ability combined with his natural skill. It’s no wonder, Lord Alexander claims him as one of his favorites. It was part of the reason why he was given those diamond plated gloves. Well that and he was able to kill the vampire that turned him. Not an easy feat when undergoing transition. Most would deem it impossible.

The second to arrive was Scythe. He has long black hair that he keeps tied in a ponytail. The ponytail reaches his lower back. His pale jade serpent eyes are laced with black eyeliner. He wears a black cropped muscle shirt revealing his toned abs. On his back, he keeps three swords sheathed, two crossing and a katana kept in the center. He has a black dragon tattoo swirling around his left arm. He wears black leather fingerless gloves. His nails painted dark green. He dressed in black pants with a side pouch he kept stocked with sharp poison laced throwing darts. He wears black sandals. Despite his youthful appearance, Scythe is the oldest vampire on the team.

Scythe is Lord Alexander’s best friend. He didn’t want Scythe to join the war, the King feared losing his dear friend. Scythe put the decision to a game of chess, Lord Alexander’s favorite game. He beat him and being a man of his word, Lord Alexander agreed to let him join the war. Now, he is one of the most dangerous assassins and the best strategist on the team. He is also one of the greatest swordsman Angel has ever seen. His special ability complements this skill to perfection.

Scythe’s ability allows him to manipulate and control whatever his blades can cut. He swings at the air. He can attack at a distance with sharp gusts of wind. He cuts the dirt, he can make a sandstorm. He cuts flames, well, now, he can wield them. The most and by far the most dangerous is when he cuts someone. One drop of blood on his blade, Scythe gains the ability to manipulate the person’s blood. Once that happens, it’s best just to give up.

“Yes,” Ziek raised his fist in the air. “I won,” He lightly punched Scythe on the shoulder. Scythe shot him with a bothersome glare. “Take that Scythe,” He went to punch him again but Scythe casually caught his fist like it was nothing. “Did you just-,” He jumped back. “Oh,” He glared deep into Scythe’s eyes. “I know you didn’t just catch my fist.”

“What,” Scythe shrugged. “Did I do something to offend you?” He didn’t realize that he caught Ziek’s fist. It was that easy for him to do. This is not going to go over well, he just hurt Ziek’s pride. “Oh, I must have.” He rubbed his chin. “Would you mind telling me what I did to upset you?” Ziek’s anger fumes were starting to build.

“That is it,” Ziek yelled. “You,” He pointed at Scythe. “Me,” He pointed at himself. “Training grounds, ten minutes, be there.” He started to walk away from Scythe.

“I would but,” Scythe took out one of his swords. “I wouldn’t want to waste my precious time.” He grabbed a cleaning cloth from his pouch. Ziek’s feet stopped and he turned to face Scythe. He balled his hands into fists as his anger continued to build. “I must apologize.” Scythe wiped off his sword and put it back in its sheath. “That was rude.”

“Yeah it was,” Ziek agreed. “Very rude.” He crossed his arms. “So I’m going to give you a chance to fix it. Alright, so let’s try that again.” Scythe rubbed his chin.

“Let me think for a moment.” Scythe rested his back against a tree. “I don’t want to spar with you because,” He rubbed his chin. “Well let me try to put it in words that a simple minded person like yourself would understand.” Ziek glared into his eyes. Great, he just insulted Ziek’s intelligence, this just got bad. “When you cut someone they bleed.” He explained. “You see so if I were to cut you with my sword.” Ziek tightened his hand into a fist. “I would then get blood on it and well,” He let out a sigh. “Blood is just so hard to clean.” Scythe placed his hand firmly on Ziek’s shoulder. “I hope you understand.”

“I understand that you’re about to get your ass kicked.” Ziek challenged. “You’re just mad that I got here before you.” He pointed at him. “Know what Scythe,” He put his hands in his pockets. “Nobody likes a sore loser.” Scythe let out a deep sigh as if he were bored.

“Nobody likes a sore winner yet,” Scythe shrugged. “Here we are.” He let out another sigh. “Excuse me but I must speak with the commander.” He walked past Ziek who’s eyes were glaring at him. Angel knew Ziek well enough to know. This was going to turn into one hell of a rivalry.

“Commander,” Scythe spoke. Angel cringed, he disliked titles of supremacy. He preferred to be treated as an equal. “Forgive me,” He apologized. “I have an important task to do for a dear friend.” This dear friend, it’s Lord Alexander. “I will return to the castle when I am finished.” He vanished leaving no trace of his figure.

“Time’s up,” Selene groaned. “He would make me fetch him,” She started walking toward the village. “I’ll be right back.” He figured she was referring to her siblings mainly Brandon. He didn’t seem like the type of person to follow orders given to him by his older sister.

“Tell me Angel,” Ziek put his hands in his pockets. “When you were human,” Angel clenched his necklace. “The day my sister left to be famous,” He walked closer to him. “Did you…miss her?” He laughed. “Forget it,” He waved it off. “I shouldn’t have asked that,” Angel eyes lingered on the moon.

“We’ll find her Ziek.” Angel promised. He wasn’t sure how or when but. He had to see her one more time. “We already discovered that she isn’t a vampire. That could only mean she’s still human or-,” Ziek’s eyes filled with a deep sadness. “We’ll find her, whatever it takes.” He placed his hand on his shoulder. “That is what I said when we first met up at the training ground.” He reminded him.

“To be honest,” Angel glanced up at the stars in the sky. “I thought a lot about what you told me that day. Before I promised to help you find your sister.” His eyes lingered on the stars. “You said that I’ve changed.” He watched as the clouds started to part. “At first,” Angel clenched his necklace. “I thought you were referring to my transition from human to vampire.” Deep down, he knew that wasn’t it. He has changed not just on the outside but on the inside too. He felt more like... himself.

“When I was human,” Angel stared at the ring on his necklace. “I would hide myself away behind a closed door. I was afraid to let anyone in, people would try, but in the end. I would shut the door in their face.” That fear, it was what kept him from showing his true self. “Now as a vampire,” He stared at his hands. “I longer feel the need to hide.” He closed his hands. “I thought this strength I gained came from being a vampire and that none of it was my own.” He stared up at the night sky. “Now, I’m convinced.” He clenched his necklace. “It’s always been there. I just never knew how to use it.”

“I’ve waited a long time to see this,” Ziek chuckled. “Two years to be exact, I was beginning to think I’d never get to see it.” He placed his hand on Angel’s shoulder. His pale blue eyes looked into Angel’s. “It’s great to finally meet the real you. He’s kind of a bad ass if I don’t say so myself.” Angel laughed.

“You’re talking about that flip I did aren’t you?” Angel pointed out. “I’m still not sure where that came from. I just knew if I didn’t jump over you when Brandon threw you at me by accident. I was going to get hurt, so,”He shrugged. “I just did what came natural to me.”

“Yeah a backflip completely over me.” Ziek chuckled. “Not to mention your back was facing us so you couldn’t even see it happen.” He added. “That was pure instinct.” Ziek draped his arm on Angel’s shoulder. “Looking back, I never would have thought you had that kind of skill. That shit came out of nowhere.” Angel laughed. “Now that the real you has come out to play.” He smirked. “I can’t wait to see what he’s capable of.”

Angel watched as Selene came out of the burning village dragging her younger brother Brandon by the ear. He had his short brown hair spiked back. His pale brown eyes were glaring at Selene. He was dressed in a black leather trench coat with no shirt underneath, His upper body was heavily built. He wore black jeans with a spiked belt around his waist. He had on black leather boots.

Brandon served as Angel’s personal bodyguard. Angel knew little about him but for the most part. Once Brandon realized Angel wasn’t like Blaire’s other suitors. It didn’t take long for them to become friends. He was quick to welcome Angel in with open arms. As for his personality, well. Brandon is just Brandon. That’s all there is to it. Like most Vampires, he also had a special ability.

Brandon’s skin is naturally protected by diamond armor. This grants him a tremendous boost in defense. It also shields him from the sunlight. The only vampire Angel knew that was naturally immune to the harsh rays of the sun without some sort of enhancement. The downside to his ability is the weight of the armor. It causes his speed to drop drastically. His strength more than makes up for it. It’s thanks to his ability that he is considered Lord Alexander’s secret weapon. He can control Brandon’s diamond armor making him twice as lethal. That’s why he often fights on the front lines.

“Hey, stop being a bitch Selene.” Brandon yelled. “I was trying to,” She yanked his ear, cutting him off. “Let me finish.” He screamed. “I was going to take that home, have you ever heard of leftovers?” He jerked his ear free of her sharp grasp.

“We both know that’s not what you were doing.” Selene crossed her arms. “I know exactly what you were trying to do. Why do I know these things?” She asked him. Brandon cleared his throat.

“You know these things because you enjoy torturing me.” Brandon shouted. “You’re an evil bitch,” He poked her chest, she glared at him. “Only a bitch would stop me from setting up a prank on Jayden.” Selene rolled her eyes. “You know, you could have just let me do it, nobody would have said shit. They’d be laughing and you know it.” He crossed his arms.

“Are you done?” Selene fixed her hair. “I already had this conversation with you. The answer is no. You aren’t going to prank Jayden. Call me a bitch all you want but,” She ran her fingers across his spiky brunette hair. “I’m still the boss and the boss says no. I’m glad we had this talk little brother.” She patted his shoulder. “Now get your ass over there and protect your commander before I beat it.”

“Bro,” Brandon rushed over to Ziek. Selene rolled her eyes. He just ignored yet another order from his sister.

“Brandon, you just,” Ziek began but Brandon cut his words.

“Bro, Bro,” Brandon’s voice filled with excitement, “You gotta listen to me man.” He draped his arm on Ziek’s shoulder. Selene tapped her foot in frustration. Angel shook his head. He’s still ignoring her command. It’s like he’s trying to get his ass kicked.

“Brandon, I think you should-,” Angel tried to speak, he cut him off.

“Bro,” Brandon glared at Angel. “I’m talking to Ziek,” He motioned towards Ziek. “Don’t interrupt me man.” He crossed his arms. “It’s not cool,” He added. “Besides you’re safe bro. If a werewolf comes for ya, I’ll punch it in the face.” That’s not the point, he should obey his sister. She is the second in command. “Anyway,” He cleared his throat returning to his conversation with Ziek.

“Okay so Bro,” Brandon smiled. “I had been meaning to talk to ya. You remember that sparring session we had.” He put his hands in the pockets of his coat. Ziek rubbed his chin thinking for a moment. “Come on, you got to remember it.”

“You must be talking about the one where you threw me.” Ziek answered. “Brandon, we do need to talk about that. You do realize that you threw me at Angel by accident right?” He asked. “I just want to point that out cause Angel could have got hurt.”

“He flipped over you. He’s fine.” Brandon shrugged. “If he was a real man, he’d stand there and take that shit.” He punched his hand. “I mean yeah, he’d break a few bones but he’d heal up.” He can’t be serious. Angel shook his head, “People throw shit at me all the time, you don’t see me dodging it. No, I stand there and take that shit.”

“Oh wait,” He glanced over at Angel. "He's one of the fragile ones." He rubbed his chin. "Yeah," He nodded. “It’s a good thing he did that flip over me.” Brandon wiped his brow. “Blaire would have chewed my ass out if I crushed him. But, he dodged so we’re good.” Aside from the fact, if by chance Brandon had crashed into Angel. He would’ve broken almost every bone in his body. Angel wanted to add. “But anyway, after that match we were in the hospital talking. I had a couple of bruises, you had a couple of bruises. It was a great match Bro.”

“It was. I enjoyed it.” Ziek agreed. “So why are you bringing up our sparring match again?” He crossed his arms. “Oh, wait,” He stopped him. “Yeah, I remember that conversation. You were talking about how awesome it was that I could throw you. Though, I don’t really remember the rest of that conversation.”

“Well of course not Bro,” Brandon replied. “I chunked you clear across the room. You landed head first into the wall. I had to get my sister to check on you, I was scared, man. You weren’t moving. She gave you some meds. You were saying all kinds of weird shit.” Ziek shook his head. “Wait a sec,” He punched Ziek’s arm. “That’s for talking about my sister’s-,” Ziek covered his mouth. Selene turned to face him.

“What were you talking about Ziek?” She asked.

“Nothing,” He faked a smile. “Just talking,” Ziek released Brandon’s mouth. “Okay we are never to discuss what was said while I was medicated.” He scolded him. “Hell, I don’t even know what I said,” He pointed at himself. “Let’s just drop it.” Angel busted out laughing. Selene’s face. She was just dying to know what was said. “Okay Brandon, get to the point before your sister kills me.”

“Team Powerhouse,” Brandon stated like he was hanging the word on his mantle. “We were saying we needed a team name and I got it. Bro, you’re strong, I’m strong. We’re strong and together we are Team Powerhouse.” He held his fist out. “Come on, don’t act like you don’t want to join, you want to join.”

“Well if it makes you happy then,” Ziek let out a sigh. “What the hell.” He bumped fists with him. “Just so you know.” He rested his arms across his chest. “That team name is never going to stick.” Brandon stood in confidence, a prideful smirk formed on his face.

“Trust me, it’s going to stick.” Brandon nodded to himself.

Angel turned to face the final two members of the team. The Healer, Patience, Selene’s twin sister. Angel knew her from her side job. She is also tasked with helping humans adjust to the life of a vampire. He only had a few sessions with her. Most of which, he never said a word. It was easier for him to keep his pain locked tight inside a bottle. No matter how hard she tried to make him open that bottle he wouldn’t.

Patience has long beautiful sunflower blonde hair that reaches her lower back. Her pale blue eyes were laced with black eyeliner and a hint pink eye shadow. She wore a black choker around her neck that had a pink butterfly design on it. She also had a pair of butterfly earrings to match. Both were gifts from her boyfriend. She dressed in a pink long sleeve shirt and faded blue jeans, The jeans had the design of three butterflies on the lower left pant leg. She wore a floral pink belt and pink converse shoes.

Patience is the opposite of her twin sister Selene in every way possible. She is kind hearted, caring, and had very little experience in combat. Selene did manage to train her some but that only goes so far. The two of them could hardly stand each other, Patience is what Selene liked to call the pretty one. Though, She has way more to offer than just a pretty face. Unlike most vampires, Patience does not have a special ability. Her ability is one that all vampires can do but most of them can’t. That is the ability to heal.

The healing ability is divided into the three separate classes. Third Class, low level healing. Minor bruises, scratches, lightweight stuff. Second Class, Deep gashes, wounds, the knowledge of medicines, all the way up to short term rapid regeneration. Last and the hardest to achieve, First Class. Someone who can heal fatal wounds, wounds that if not treated right then and there the victim could die. This person has to be able to heal at a moment’s notice. Second nature even. They can also inflict paralysis which is the only combat skill healers can use. The reason paralysis is so rare. It requires them to use their knowledge in situations that most healers aren’t used to. It goes completely against what they are taught. Which is to not engage the enemy and keep a distance. Rumor has it, only two people have achieved first class and Patience is one of them.

The vampire that walked beside her is Jayden, He’s the newest addition to the team. His silver hair draped over the left side of his face. His bangs stopped just before reaching his pale blue eyes. He had a tattoo of two swords crossing over a shield on the right side of his neck. He wears a black shirt with a skull on it. Over it, he wore a button up shirt that was white and covered in grey flame designs. He had on a grey and black backpack that was filled with medicines and all sorts of weaponry. He wore faded blue jeans and grey converse shoes.

Jayden was turned by Scythe. He used to be a part of the human faction but he got into a fight with some werewolves. When Scythe found him, he was fatally wounded and the only possible way Scythe could have saved his life was to turn him. Once he did, Jayden had no choice but to side with the vampires. His transition is so recent which is indicated by his small vampire fangs. Not one person knows what his special ability is or if he even has one. For now, he serves as the team’s supply boy or as he likes to call himself, the source.

“It’s okay.” Patience’s arm draped over Jayden’s shoulder. The boy was shivering. Jayden’s lips were soaked in blood, his silver hair stained by crimson. This was Jayden’s first time feeding on a human. Angel could recall his first time, not like he could forget. It was horrifying. “You’ll get the hang of it.” She wiped the blood from his lips. “I’ll teach you,”

“Like you could teach him,” Selene fixed her hair. “You’re still drinking from blood packs.” Selene’s finger pointed at the blood pack. The blood pack rested in the pocket of Brandon’s coat. “We may be related but we are nothing alike.” Patience reached into Brandon’s pocket taking the blood pack. She began to slurp the blood from it as her sister spoke. “I trained you and yet you still fight with “grace”. Since when has my fighting style even been graceful?”

“Yours may not be but mine is,” Patience placed her hand on her chest. “I’m not like you, so I changed a few things.” She handed Jayden a napkin to clean himself up. “Anyway,” She put her hands on her hips. “The real problem here is,” She ran her fingers through her hair. “You’re jealous of me. I’m not saying that to be smug or cocky. I’m saying that because we both know it’s true.” Selene scoffed.

“I’m jealous of you,” She hitched a laugh. “Right, I’m so jealous of a girl who barely knows how to defend herself. I’m so jealous of a girl that’s built like a damn toothpick.” She spoke her voice filled with sarcasm. “Maybe if you worried less about your appearance and more about the fact this is a war. I’d have more respect for you.”

“Say what you want Selene,” Patience argued. “I’m still your sister.” Her pale blue eyes glared at her sister. “Bubba,” She faced her younger brother Brandon. “Let’s head back to the castle together.” Brandon replied with a nod. She tossed Angel a small bag full of sleep powder. “You’re the fiancée that means you’re in charge of feeding her.” The rest of the team followed her aside from Selene.

“You could be honest with her,” Angel advised. “All Patience wants from you is just a fragment of vulnerability.” Selene glanced up at the moon. Angel knew she cared for her sister, her brother, everyone in the team. She just refused to show it. Selene was just too afraid of being vulnerable. “I’m just giving you advice.” He placed his hand on her shoulder. “Like I said, I consider you all my friends.”

“I’d better,” Selene ran her finger through her hair. “Get back to the castle.” He let out a sigh as she once again ignored his advice, She’d be able to open up one day, he just hoped it was sooner than later. Not like he was one to talk, he struggled with his feelings just as much as she did. Perhaps that’s why. He’s always been partial to Selene. She’s the only person here who actually had a chance of understanding him.

The light of the full moon gleamed down on Dusk Castle. The entire castle is protected by mountains. The only way to enter the vast fields around the castle was to enter a cave. This cavern is set up like a dark labyrinth. The inside of the castle walls were nothing short of elegance, from the grand staircase to the throne room.

Angel arrived in the shrine of the bats where his fiancee Blaire waited for him. Her hair was crimson red and went to mid back. Her pale brown eyes were glaring right at him. She was dressed in a black leather jacket that was partially unzipped to show off her features. She wore tight leather pants and black leather heeled boots.

“You’re late,” Blaire snapped her fingers. Her servants came to collect her food. Angel handed over the sleeping human that rested on his shoulder. “The full moon set,” She took the man biting onto his neck. She drained the life out of him in mere seconds. “I told you,” She wiped the blood from her lips. “I wanted your ass back here before then.” She rose to her feet in anger. Her pale brown eyes took the form of a menacing glare. “Do I need to remind you of the dangers of being out during the full moon?”

“Blaire, I lost track of time and-,” Angel began.

“Enough,” She raised her voice. “I don’t want to hear your excuses.” She returned to her throne. “They’ll only bore me.” Her eyes trailed off to her engagement ring. Blaire snapped her fingers. “Dispose of him,” The servants took the lifeless body away. Angel prepared to leave. “I didn’t say you could leave yet, dearest.” He cringed at the word. “You seem to forget who it is you're marrying or does my father need to remind you?” Lord Alexander snapped his fingers, diamond chains shot out of the ground prepared to confine him.

“More chains,” Angel half smiled. “I guess nothing has changed.” He put his hands in his pockets. Those chains, they confined him once, he thought he would be afraid but this time he wasn’t. “There’s no need for that Lord Alexander,” His eyes shifted towards the Vampire Lord as he sat there in his throne. The chains withdrew as Angel faced his bride to be. “Tell me Blaire, what is it you want from me?”

“When you were confined in that cage,” Blaire rose from her throne. Her heels clacking as she paced around him. Yes, he could remember that cage. The steel iron bars, the concrete floor stained in blood, and the corpses that lied on the floor. Lives, Angel had to take in order to stay alive, Blaire forced this on him. All those deaths were for a chance to make him her husband. Blaire got what she wanted.

“You were only wearing those filthy boxers,” Blaire’s red lips formed lustful smirk. “Your flawless skin was taunting me,” Her eyes traced his figure. Angel’s stomach began to turn. “I was able to provide you with immense pleasure.” She ran her finger across his lip. There was no pleasure found in that cage, what Blaire did to him was vile, gross. He hoped to forget that her hand ever touched him. “Now you are free from that cage,” She brought her lips close to his. “You are free to feel so much more,”

“Sex,” Angel stopped her lips before she could kiss him. “Is that what you want?” She replied with a nod. He would never allow her to have him in that way. Angel intended to save his innocence for someone else. “Lord Alexander,” He faced the Vampire Lord’s throne. “Your daughter, a virgin, wishes to fuck me.” Lord Alexander’s eyes began to steam with anger. “As her father you can’t tell me you approve of this.”

“Blaire,” Lord Alexander’s eyes formed a menacing glare. The Lord’s daughter bit her lip in anger. “I will not allow you to offer yourself over to any man. You are my daughter. I refuse to let anyone defile my daughter. Do I make myself clear?” Angel brought his lips to her ear.

“Like I told you in that cage,” Angel lowered his voice to a faint whisper. “Nothing of mine will ever be yours. That includes this,” He pointed at his heart, “and this,” He pointed at his crotch. “You’re not the only one who can hide behind your father,” He whispered, Blaire glared at him. Angel began to walk away.

“Grandchildren,” Blaire spoke, -What?!- Angel stopped in place. She can’t be serious, her, bear his child? No, he’d never allow a sick disgusting woman like her to bear any of his kids. “Angel can provide you with a grandchild.” She turned to face her father. “A new heir for the throne. That’s his role as my future husband is it not?” She questioned. “You can’t deny him his right to provide a powerful heir. You said it yourself father,” Blaire glanced over at Angel. “Angel’s gift is one of a kind, unique and limitless. Who else could provide a worthy heir if not him?” Angel went to counter her argument.

“Enough,” Lord Alexander rose to his feet. “Angel, my daughter has brought on a notable point. You should be thrilled to be given the opportunity to provide a future heir. Or is my lineage not to your liking.” He didn’t answer. “You are to lay with my daughter tonight and start working towards a new future. That is your role as her husband, it’s time you began to fulfill your purpose.” He glared at Angel, “Do I make myself clear?”

“I understand,” Angel replied in a defeated tone. Blaire smirked, jerking him toward her. Her red lips drew close to his ear. Her hands took hold of him keeping him close. She got him there was nothing he could do. Once again, he was left powerless.

“It’s like I told you in your cage, my dearest Angel.” Blaire whispered. “You will be mine.” Angel felt her hand grope his sack, squeezing it lightly. He glared into her eyes angered by the connection. “I expect to be bedridden tonight,” She started to rub his heft sack. Angel caught her hand stopping the action. “Think you can handle that.” Blaire jerked her hand free of his grasp. “Oh,” Blaire smirked. “Just so you don’t get any ideas,” Angel felt a sharp needle pierce the right side of his tender neck. He dropped to his knees screaming in shear agony. He took notice of an empty syringe lying at her feet.

“Son of a-,” Angel fought to move, his body felt so weak. The right side of his neck burned as if a powerful acid were eating at his flesh. This substance is…holy water. While it rested in his bloodstream, he couldn’t use his curses. She didn’t use enough to kill him, just enough to weaken him.

“See you tonight.” Blaire stepped on the syringe shattering it with her heel. He rested on his knees fighting with the pain coursing through his body. His eyes watching as the doors to the throne room slammed shut. What was he going to do? In this state, there was no way he could stand up to her.

The moment the pain faded, Angel began to make his way over to his usual spot. His eyes wandered the bar inside the castle. This is the place vampires drown their sorrows and mourn their losses. For him, this was a place for surrender. He took a seat at the bar stool just as he did every night. His eyes were pained at the sight of the engagement ring on his finger, a reminder of all the pain he faced within. Now he’d make his choice.

“I’d like-,” Before Angel could finish the bartender slid him his drink. His eyes lingered on the glass. It was nothing but blood mixed with alcohol, it did nothing but numb the pain. Though, Angel wouldn’t know. He’s never used methods like this to hide his pain. This drink, Angel knew if he took even one drink, there’s no way he’d stop. He wouldn’t stop until all the pain was gone. Angel just sat there staring at the glass as if it were a mere reflection of everything he didn’t want to be. Would he surrender and become that person tonight?

“So Angel,” Patience took a seat next to him. He didn’t acknowledge her, his eyes remained on the glass. “Tell me, what are you thinking about?” Angel didn’t answer. This was just another one of her therapy sessions. She wasn’t going to get anything out of him. His pain belonged inside a bottle locked tight. “I figured since you refuse to see me, I’d come to see you.” She held his hand as he stared at his glass. “Angel, I care about you so please let me help you.” She offered. “Talk to me, I can’t help unless you give me something.”

“It’s Blaire,” Angel shut his eyes. “I’m supposed to have sex with her tonight. I tried to escape it hiding behind her father but,” His eyes returned to his glass. “He wants me to start acting like her future husband and allow her to bear my child. I haven’t been with anyone in a sexual sense. I was hoping to preserve it but it seems I don’t have a choice.” He turned to face her. “I need your advice, is there any way, I can preserve my innocence at least for one more night?”

“I was wondering when Blaire was going to start making sexual advancements toward you.” Patience crossed her legs. “Okay well, you could always try talking to her but I seriously doubt that’s going to work. Blaire doesn’t take rejection well. It’s why the commander is always her future husband, he never gets a choice.” She explained. “I’m guessing you intended to save yourself for another woman. Is that why you don’t want to have sex with her?” Angel replied with a nod. “Okay then, my advice to you in regards to the sex. Think of it as practice for the woman you were saving yourself for. Blaire’s going to be your first, there’s just no way around it at this point.”

“I guess you’re right,” Angel agreed. “There’s no way I can keep dodging her like this.” He let out a sigh. “She injected me with holy water earlier.” He placed his hand on his neck. He could still feel a faint burn from the injection. His curses wouldn’t return until morning. “In my current state, she could steal my innocence from me. I wouldn’t be strong enough to stop her. Though, I have another problem in regards to-,” He noticed a vial of medicine lying on the table in front of him.

“I was saving that for this very moment,” Patience glanced over at the vial. “I created this medicine. If you slip that into Blaire’s drink. It will erase all traces of your release. I have already tested it on myself.” She glanced over at the guy standing in the back of the bar. Angel remembered him as her boyfriend. “It’ll work, I wasn’t about to let Blaire bring a child into this,” She ran her fingers through her hair. “There are a lot of things I tolerate but using a child as a weapon isn’t one of them.” She began to leave.

“Patience,” Angel spoke, making her stop. “How did you know I’d be here?” He put the vial of medicine in his pocket. Her eyes turned to face him, her lips forming a friendly smile. He turned in his chair facing her.

“Every day you come here and buy a drink,” Patience glanced over at the glass. “You never drink it. You just stare at it,” She took a seat next to him. “I never understood why but now I finally get it. That drink,” Patience pointed at the glass. “It symbolizes everything you don’t want to be. You aren’t the guy that drinks his troubles away. You don’t hurt women or treat them with disrespect, that’s not you. You wouldn’t even depend on rough sex to get back at them.” Angel glanced over at her. How did she know he was considering it?

“More important than any of that,” She took hold of his hand. “You aren’t the guy that stops caring just because a woman has hurt you. You fight and you don’t let her win. At the end of the day, you don’t break. That’s the Angel I know,” She chuckled playfully. “See, we only had one session together and it didn’t stop from figuring you out.” Patience smiled, he let out a sigh, he couldn’t argue with her there.

“For what it’s worth,” Patience rose to her feet. “I wish Blaire had chosen someone else. Angel, you are good to all of us. You don’t deserve to be treated the way she treats you. I hope one day Blaire realizes that.” She patted Angel’s shoulder. “Now do me a favor,” Patience winked at him, “Put that drink in front of you to use. We both know you aren’t going to drink it.” She rushed over to her boyfriend taking her leave.

“Actually,” Angel had an idea. He whistled at the bartender. “Could I get another drink for my fiancée?” He ordered. The bartender slid him another drink. “Much appreciated.” He paid for the drinks taking his leave. While he was walking towards Blaire’s room, Angel poured the medicine into her cup. He would attempt to sway her from sex, if that failed, this served as mere practice.

“You’re late,” Blaire’s eyes formed a menacing glare. “I was beginning to think that I would have to drag you from your room.” Her slender body was laced in a thin silk nightgown. The strap over her right shoulder draped low, revealing more of her chest. The garment was cut short barely covering her lace panties. “What are the wine glasses for?” She climbed out of her large bed.

“Well we’re both virgins,” Angel shrugged. “We’re engaged and I figured before we defile one another.” She brought her lips close to his. “We could share a toast,” He handed her the spiked cup. Blaire whisked the contents of the drink around.

“A toast,” Blaire raised her brow. “You kept me waiting for a toast.” She placed her hand on her hip. “Whatever,” She shrugged. “You’re finally cooperating so I guess that’s a start.” Angel stared at his glass.

“To being each other’s first,” He held his glass out to her. Blaire tapped her glass against his. Angel took a small drink. She took a drink holding the glass to her red lips, chugging it. “Blaire,” He set his glass on her night stand. “There’s something we need to discuss,” Blaire set her empty glass down. Her lust filled hands began to tamper with his neck, reaching further down his fine flesh.

“What is it?” Blaire began pressing her red lips against his neck. “Am I not good enough for you?” Her eyes took the form of a death glare. Angel was no match for her without his curses. He couldn’t compete with her in physical combat. Blaire had the gift to create weapons from diamond or even cloak a body part in diamond. Without his curses this left him at a disadvantage.

“No, it’s not that.” He said choosing to be careful with his words. “I understand you don’t want to wait but,” Angel ran his finger through her hair. “Would you consider waiting for my sake?” She began to laugh at him.

“You must be joking,” Blaire chuckled. “You’re a guy.” She ran her finger through his hair. “You’re expected to lunge at girls when they offer themselves.” She kissed his neck. “Don’t tell me,” Blaire’s finger traced his lips. “You’re afraid to have a good time with the hottest girl you’ll ever fuck.” She is indeed a woman to be lusted after. Though, after all the pain she put him through, he wouldn’t feel any attraction to her. The only thing he felt toward her was anger. This anger, he kept bottled inside himself. “Quit playing games with me, you want me so,” She brought her lips closer to his. “Take me.” Blaire began to lean in for the kiss.

“That’s just it,” Angel stopped her. “I’m not joking.” He looked into her eyes. “Is it so wrong for a guy to wait till he’s married before he has sex?” The wedding was only a couple days away anyway. It wouldn’t be a long wait but it at least spared his innocence for a little while longer. That’s all he wanted. “I have a choice too. it’s not just about you. So I’m asking you to consider my choice.” She laughed.

“Your choice,” She repeated. “I hate to burst your bubble but who said you had a choice.” Blaire glared into his eyes. “Because I’d like to know,” She placed her hand on her chest. “Who said you,” She pushed him, Angel’s body crashed into her dresser. “Had a choice,” He went to punch her, she caught his fist. “I damn sure didn’t.” Blaire arched her knee deep into Angel’s stomach.

“Now I did not put on this silk nightgown,” Blaire struck Angel in the stomach again. “So you could say no to me,” The back side of her hand struck him in the jaw. Angel shook off the attack grabbing her by her shoulders pinning her against the wall. “When,” Blaire smirked at him. “All that matters is me.” She swiftly kicked Angel in the balls. He arched over gripping his aching groin. “I don’t give a damn about you,” She grabbed his throat, choking him. “Or what you would like to do.” She forced his head forward slamming it into the wall. “It’s about what I want to do.” Blaire chunked Angel onto her bed, he jumped at her.

“I’m Lord Alexander’s daughter,” She cloaked her fist in diamond. She struck Angel in mid air knocking back onto her bed. He fought to get back on his feet after being struck with what felt like a powerful club. “I always get what I want,” She rested on his lap, Angel fought to move. His body still ached from being hit. “Shut up and get busy.” She grabbed Angel’s shirt making him kiss her. He tried to pull away but Blaire grabbed his cheeks keeping their lips together.

“Blaire, I-,” Angel felt her body chafe against his crotch. She tore at his shirts, removing both the white long-sleeved shirt, and the black shirt he wore over it. Her lustful hands began to marvel at the mere sculpture of his smooth chest. Her playful finger tips moved slowly down from his nipples heading towards his toned abs. Her index finger traced the well-drawn treasure trail leading her to his. “I can’t do this.” She swatted his hands as he tried to stop her from jerking at his jeans. She grabbed his wrists forcing him onto the mattress. He shut his eyes tightly as the zipper of his jeans began to descend. The button started to become loose as Blaire reached inside his boxers. “Blaire please,” He pleaded. She bit the side of his neck drinking his blood. Angel let out a soft moan, why did this feel so good?

“You like that don’t you,” Blaire reached into his boxers rubbing his jewels. “There it is, come on, don’t fight, you want me.” Angel bit his lip. He tried to pull her hand out but this attention. No matter how much he hated to admit it, her hand provided him with much pleasure. The way she caressed his heft balls, she treated them as if they were a precious pair of gemstones. Angel hitched a light grunt, oh man, he’s getting hard. He tried to not think about it but she knew she had him. “Oh yes, that’s it,” She pressed her lips against his, Angel hips began to push into her. Angel laid her on the mattress pinning her by her wrists. His whole body ached for release, there’s no real point in fighting anymore. Angel removed his jeans leaving them on the floor.

“Fine,” Angel whispered in her ear. “I’ll service you.” He pulled her night gown off revealing her red lace bra and panties. He gripped her concealed breasts. His vampire teeth sunk into her neck tasting her blood as his hands fondled her. Her hands gripped his hungry sides pushing his clothed eminence hard on into her. He unclipped her bra, tossing it aside. He pressed his lips against her buds lightly running his tongue over them.

“Oh, yes,” Blaire gripped Angel’s ass pushing him into her. “Uhhnn,” She moaned, Angel shifted to her other breast licking her hard fleshly nubs. He ran his zest lips down her skin, kissing between her breasts, down to her taut stomach, tasting her graspable hips. He wedged his sharp vampire teeth into the fabric of her panties. He skillfully slid her panties down her figure with his teeth tossing them aside. He started to remove his boxers but Blaire snatched him by his boxers throwing him onto her. Her slick tongue broke into his saturated cavern gliding over his tongue. Angel slipped his finger into her moist crevice, lightly prodding her.

“Oh, y-y-e-s, uhnn that’s it,” She cried out, Angel’s light touch squeezed her breast as his finger pushed into her. Blaire’s back started to arch, as Angel fed her bliss using his finger. “More, ah, yes,” Blaire let out a loud moan as another finger took entry. “Oh, Angel,” She grabbed his waist, lowering his boxers. Blaire’s lustful eyes stared at his trimmed mocha pubic hair. She pulled his solid black boxers down further. His stout erection emerged at the mere sight. Blaire gripped his ass cheeks pulling him closer to her face.

“Well,” Angel raised his eyebrow tossing his boxers aside. It was strange, the way Blaire thirsted after his cock. It was like she thought of it as the ultimate skeleton key. He knew Blaire was but a slave to her sexual desires but never knew that. She was this far gone.

“My Angel, I never knew you were so,” Blaire took his cock into her hand. Her eyes were examining him every inch of him. “Gifted,” She sniffed him taking in the scent of his masculinity. Her finger ran up and down his inches. “It’s much better than I imagined in that cage.” She grabbed the back of his neck forcing their lips together. He was certain of two things. One, Angel wouldn’t claim her innocence using his cock. He didn’t want it to begin with, so before he entered her. He slipped his two fingers into her poking her cherry.

“Uhhn, oh, fuck, yes,” Blaire let out moan after moan, as he aimed to disarm her cherry using his fingers. “That’s it,” He felt her getting wetter after each and every attempt. Angel gripped her hip moving her into his fingers claiming her innocence at last. Blaire legs spread out as her head arched. Angel took hold of her legs taking his length pushing into her. The second thing, Angel refused to do. He covered his mouth as her moist wet crevice engulfed the head of his dick. He refused to cry out for her, he didn’t care about her and would never let her name escape his lips.

“Oh,” Blaire’s forced Angel’s handsome body on top of her. He slammed his palms on the mattress. With sharp quick motions, he pushed himself deeper inside her. He bit his lip fighting every self forsaken moan. This rhythm, impulsive, he couldn’t stop it. There was just no way to describe the way it felt to have his dick buried deep inside her. The sweet sensation, oh yes, fuck yes. “Fuck me Angel, oh yes,” She wrapped her arms around him, her red nails digging into the tattoo of angel wings that resided on his back. The massive bed continued to shake, yes, he bit his lip as his hips struck rapidly. The headboard clashed into the wall, her night stand began to shake.

“Uhnn,” Angel grunted lightly, his tight grip clinching to the bed sheets. His lust knew no restraint. Blaire’s moans beckoned his hips. He took her slender curves into his hands, throwing her body into him. “Uhnn, yes,” He pressed his lips against hers. His stomach coiled, muscles tightened, so much pleasure. He fought to contain it. The bed continued its violent shake. His wine glass stumbled off the nightstand shattering on the floor. Blaire’s nails scraped into his back, her wetness encasing his pride as he...

“O-o-oh, y-yes,” Blaire’s back started to arch. Angel hated that he enjoyed this so much. Why did it feel so good? He hated Blaire but when he fucked her. He felt as if he were in control, he felt empowerment beyond belief. Her lips begged for him, for release. Her nails scratching at his back trying to suppress her need for his. Angel had her at his mercy, with every motion, she surrendered.

“Bedridden,” He whispered into her ear. “Is that what you said earlier?” Angel lips formed a confident smirk. Blaire replied with a nod, he wasn’t sure if he could but. He would try his damnedest to ensure, he made her feel his rage with every thrust. Angel grabbed her hips no longer sparing an ounce of strength or speed. His inches shoved into her, again, again, each time the bed began to buckle and break.

“Angel, uhhn,” Blaire screamed out her nails tearing into his back. Her head flung back, her back arching even more. He bit his lips drawing blood as his cock began to drip with sweet ecstasy. He could feel it, his bottled up pain building and building till it was ready to burst. This sweet aroma, they had created, like a drug. It forced his powerful hips into her again and again. Angel held her hips tight, the bottle started to leak out of him, with each thrust. He cringed trying to suppress his current. “Fuck,” She cried out her nails digging deep into Angel’s back. Her release crashed into him like a deadly current.

“Bl-,” No, Angel wouldn’t cry out her name. He gripped the headboard with every ounce of strength he had. A strong wave of flashes flickered in his mind. The bottle poured out with every thrust he fed her his euphoria. His rhythm started to fade into weak taps. That was close, He let go of the headboard seeing the indentation of his hand crushing the wooden frame. He began to search for his clothes.

“Angel,” Blaire spoke, breaking the silence. Her hands wrapped around him taking him into bed with her. “You are,” She climbed over him pressing her lips against his. “A sex god,” She began to kiss his chest as he pulled the blankets over him. “I can’t wait for us to play together again,” Angel laid his head on the pillow. Great, he was expected to do this again. Way to go, he fucked her so well. She wants to do it again, curse his lack of control and his stupid sex drive. Damn it, he wanted to scream. He let out a sigh, better get used to it.

“Sex god,” Angel turned to face her. “I’m not really sure you can make that kind of call. You just lost your virginity.” He explained. “Besides,” He checked beneath the sheets. He was told that Vampires don’t require sleep but even they had their sexual limit. “I need to recover, he’s not moving. What about you?”

“I need to recover,” Blaire smirked. “I’d say you handled it.” She pressed her lips against his. “How was I?” She turned to face him.

“Well, you’re the first girl that I-,” Angel rubbed the back of his neck. “I think you did pretty damn good.” Blaire smirked resting her head on his chest. He didn’t understand. He wasn’t supposed to enjoy having sex with her. He hated her so much, how could he enjoy having sex with her? No, it had nothing to do with her. He didn’t enjoy her, no he enjoyed the freedom. For a moment, the pain he felt inside was gone. If only this pain would find a way to disappear. Deep down, Angel knew it wouldn’t. Not while he was expected to marry Blaire. His heart belonged to someone else, a woman he was searching endlessly for. Erika, he needed to see her again.