"The Society" , a great story

†The Society†

†Volume 1: Bloodlust†

†CHAPTER 1: DUSK AND DAWN†

Dusk and dawn, words of different meanings but for me, dusk and dawn gives me one important meaning. It is the only time that I can be me. I am a monster, of unknown identity. To tell you the truth, I don’t even know who I am. Ever since I started breathing, I was called Winter. Why? They say that my eyes are the color of deep winter’s cold. They say that my blue piercing eyes gives shivers down people’s spines. The unusual paleness of my skin, probably due to lack of exposure to ultra violet rays, is paler than any ghost you have ever seen. Bloody lips that pretty much contrasts the black and white combination of my skin and hair. This is me. I don’t really like high noon or any time of the day where the sun shines and dominates the skies. Why? For a very normal rationale that: I burn in the sun. This story is about a vampire’s search for something even to him is unknown.

“My dear Russet, I am sorry, I am not able to bring you a child.” A lady cloaked in blue and silver cried out to her dear husband sitting in a throne. “Caroline, I am able to understand, this must be our providence. Therefore, we may but accept it. Maybe someday, our dreams will come true. The only thing we could possibly do is hope.” Russet, a man in late thirties, sat on the throne wearing a cape of silver and blue. Silver and blue, the accurate colors that embodies the country of vampire slayers.

Vampire slayers are immortal creatures born only to bear the hatred to the clan of those who cannot live without the taste of blood. In vampire prophecy, they have won, over and over and sent the vampires to a place far away from the humans. These two, Caroline and Russet, are the king and queen or the leaders of this one big country. As vampire slayers, they carry weapons that will lead to the destruction of at least one vampire. Most of the weapons they carry are guns and daggers with ultraviolet generators. Ultra violet rays kill vampires. But, everyone should know that the best things also have defects. It might be small and can be fixed or it might be…it might be big. Something that would cause a small mistake and eat up everything around it. If vampire’s immortality is destroyed by a little ray of golden sunshine, then vampire slayers’ immortality could be wounded and destroyed by one thing. Mistletoe. I should know a lot about them. It is where I thought my family was. Now, the story is about to begin.

Before these entire clamors began, I used to dream of something. This is how it goes: I see a lady, she was injured. This injury probably came from her birth giving. She is strong. I mean, strong enough to carry twins on her hand and run just after giving birth. I can’t see her face. But I have this crawling feeling that, that woman was my mother. She sat. She talked to me and her voice sounded of heaven’s choir. Mesmerizing me, this is what she was doing. My dearest children, I will never dare to leave you. I would have to die before they lay their hands on you. I heard her say this, over and over again and tears started streaming from her eyes. Footsteps and shouts. She moved as if she was being hunted. Her face showed how terrified she is. There were people running after her. She was almost out of strength and as the footsteps got closer, her strength loosens more. When she was about to run, she wasn’t able to carry me with her. It was too late when she found out. She can’t take the risk. If she comes out first, she’ll die with her other child and second, there is no assurance that her child would survive after her death. Goodbye Winter. She said and fled. Then I woke up.

Here in Tindale, I grew up as fine as a prince. I was taught of battle strategies and skills, music, logic, academics, languages of different countries and races, art and a whole lot more. Winter, that’s what my father named me. He says he did so because my eyes are of the color of winter’s coldest. I was loved. Pampered. As far as I know I am, no, was, a prince. Years later, some things started to change. I had another dream.

That woman who carried me. She’s standing in front of our enemies. Vampires. Those despicable creatures that lives with taking the life out of others. I wanted to call for her. I needed to tell her that she’s in mortal danger. She talked and cheers rose from the crowd. She said that it is time for more of our allies. Allies? She’s a vampire too?! She can’t be! She’s my mother this will make me, a vampire as well! Then I woke up. Scared.

It was morning. I rushed to my whole body mirror like I do every morning. I noticed something. My eyes, they just got bluer. And these incisors weren’t this long last night. “Ow!” something was burning my hand. I turned and saw that the gentle touch of sunlight is burning me. This can’t be. This must be a dream. I can’t be. “Winter dear? Are you awake?” It was Caroline. “Y-yes mother. I’ll be right there.” I tried to pretend as if nothing was happening. I grabbed my cape and hood and ran outside. “Ah, my dear son!” It was Russet. “Come join us for breakfast.” He continued. “I can’t right now father, I have to talk to Arid.” Another lie. I can get used to this. It sounds easy. I rushed outside without listening to what they say. With the help of my cape and hood, I ran across the burning sunlight and into Arid’s door. I pounded and he opened. “Winter?! What’s wrong with you? You’re…smoking?” he started. “Can we talk inside?” I pushed my way through. Arid started to have a crawling feeling. “Winter…I don’t think…” I decided to cut the speech. “Yes Arid, I am a vampire.” I said almost without emotion.

“Why are you here then?” Arid started. “I don’t know.” I answered. Truthfully. “What do you want me to do then?” Arid continued. I can tell he is bewildered. “I need you to help me out of this city.” I requested. “But didn’t you see those walls? Can’t you tell how much more than a boost up is needed?” Arid protested. “Yes I know but it’s worth a try.” I stated. “Please Arid; I need to find who I am.” I was obviously trying to persuade him. “Fine. Tonight meet me by the gate. Don’t fail yourself Winter.” Arid ended. “Thanks.” I said and ran again out of the house and into the palace.

When I came back, father was fencing with Lord Montague XX. “Winter! I’m glad you’re finally here! Come and show Lord Montague what you can do.” He requested. “And how am I supposed to do that?” I thought out loud. “Well for starters, remove that cape of yours and get over here.” Father sounded irritated. When he noticed that something was wrong and I was acting strangely he started doubting me. “Why? Is there anything wrong with you?” Father asked again. Oh nothing father, I just woke up this morning and found out that my eyes got bluer and my incisors just grew a little bit too long and I burn in the sun! Guess what father, I am a vampire! Remember those guys you used to hunt? I’m one of them. “I’m sorry father I can’t fulfill that wish right now. I’m not feeling well.” I lied. Again. How many times do I have to go through this? “Oh, I understand. Go get some rest then.” He said tapping my shoulder slightly. I smelled his hand. Those hands. It was the first time I felt threatened by scent. I hissed. “Hey!” father backed off. “I’m sorry; I really need to rest…” I ran. I can see him in my mind. He’s very disturbed by my behavior. Me too.

It was night. I need to meet Arid. I have formulated the plan and it included jumping out of the window from the 5th tower. No sheets oh no. Then I thought that this is the time to prove my vampire-ness. Vampires have the ability to jump high and great distances. And I did. I jumped. I only broke a nail. Then I ran and I was surprised of my speed. I smelled Arid’s scent. He’s already there. “Hey.” I opened. “Are you ready?” He said. “Very.” I replied. “Before you go, I want to send my thanks for being my friend. But here’s something else. I won’t hesitate if I was bound to kill you someday.” He said. “Yes, I understand.” I replied with my gentle smile. I jumped it was incredibly high. I looked back. Just one more glance to a friend that I will loose. I am out. Free.

†CHAPTER 2: THE OUTSIDE WORLD†

Now the outside looked a lot different like the inside. Everybody inside looked like elegant people on a fairy tale. No one looked haggard. Well except the guards who almost didn’t get too much sleep. Outside, there are machines running around bringing smoke that makes you cough. I avoided these because I thought they might bring me pain. I learned that they are called cars. Only rich people have them. I wandered around. I ended in a market. A lot of people were there, ladies with parasols, children with toy cars. There were more people there than inside the empire. It was an early morning and the mist was covering the sun. I had to look for a place to stay away from the sun. I wandered for so long until I faced an alley. No one seemed to notice the people there. In there, I found a kid. He was dirty. “Hey, what are you doing here?” I asked him. “I live here.” He answered. “Really, does the sun touch these parts?” I asked. “No.” he answered. “Can I stay?” I asked. “Sure,” he answered. “But you’re on your own when it comes to food.” He said. “Why? Doesn’t anybody serve food for you here?” I asked. “Of course not.” He laughed and wobbled to a farther side. I didn’t have much choice, I had to stay.

The day passed, I don’t have anything to eat. I was about to stand up when a shadow stood in front of me. “Hey kid.” It said. I looked up and saw a man. He looks like someone rich. “You look good to be a vagabond. Do you want to go somewhere amazing?” He said. I was quite affronted. He should have asked me if I want to eat. I would unquestionably have said yes. “On my perspective you’re not a run of a mill person. Maybe providence chose us to congregate. Without further ado, my name is Winter now if you don’t mind; you would have to state your name as an official overture.” I started. I have this inclination of making people plummet and grasp their jaws before they speak. “Uh…Well…I’m Cyclone.” He said his eyes are not drifting they are only looking in mine. “Not to be boorish but in the realm, people who looks as the crow flies in my eyes gets reprimanded. I recommend you not to, not now that we’re only just becoming friends.” I hid my eyes behind my hair and started removing filth from my suit. “You came from the empire?” He asked. “Oh dear friend, look straight at me and adjudicate whether I’m deceitful or not.” I raised an eyebrow. “Okay I believe you, now let’s go and grab food.” He said. Without hesitation, I followed him.

We walked through the town. Past the steaming machines, the newspaper boy’s shouting. Past the noisy vendors, the beautiful giggling ladies, the kissing couples, the playing dogs, the huge water pipe, past the kids playing baseball, the girls who actually gave me a wink, past noisy bistros, past men playing chess and cards. We walked past people riding horses, ladies in carriages, beautiful clothes both for men and women. And finally, we arrived at a weird looking bistro. “Is this it?” I asked. “Yes it is.” He said. We walked in. “This doesn’t look—”something hit me at the back of my head. I blacked out.

When I woke up, there were children around me. When I blinked and tried to move, all of them ran shouting. “He’s awake!” they shouted. I wanted to laugh but all I uttered was a gash of breath. “I think he’s cute.” One said. She’s not a kid though, even if I can’t see the source of the voice, I know by the sound. “Oh Aubrey, stop it, he needs recovery and the children are not helping.” Another voice came. “Why should you take care of that little blood sucker Story? I mean, there’s Aubrey standing next to you.” Another came, this one’s from a boy. “Mauve, Aubrey here would leave him to die while she admires his pretty face.” The gentle voice said. I wanted to hear more of her. I called out. “You, the one with the gentle voice. Come here.” I said. The talking stopped. “I think our new prince here is calling for the princess.” Aubrey giggled. “Why that little—“ the boy said. “Aubrey, get a hold of Mauve will you?” She said. “I’ll be right there in a tic.” She said.

I waited for a while then I heard footsteps and a tap on my shoulder. “Hello.” She said. She was beautiful. Her brown hair was long and wavy. The waves form locks which are tied up to a neat finish. Some of the hair that managed to escape the tie hanged on her head like swirling waterfalls. Her eyes were of emerald and her pinkish skin looked so warm. She had a cute pointy nose and rosy lips that always showed a warm smile. Her long curled lashes looked like the waves of the ocean running along the shore. Beauty. She stunned me. “My name is Story.” She said with her lovely gentle voice. “I-I” That’s all I said. I know I sound stupid. She giggled. “You look cute now.” She smiled at me. “Sorry?” I asked. “Your skin is pale white and now your cheeks are rosy. Are you blushing?” She asked. I felt the warmth on my cheeks. “Uh-no.” I said and covered them. “Why did you call me by the way? And what’s your name again?” She asked me. Oh, I heard your gentle voice and now I see that you’re the most beautiful creature I have seen and I think I really like you. I’m Winter, your future husband. “I feel dizzy.” I answered. Wow, what do you know, another lie. Story dipped the towel in a basin of warm water. She folded it and placed it on my forehead.

I smelled her scent and it was amazing. She smelled like the sweet smell of roses tied altogether in a beautiful bundle. I felt like a child longing for candy. I felt her hand on my forehead. Soft and gentle. Her slender fingers trickled along as she adjusted the damp towel on my forehead. “I’m…Winter.” I said. “Winter, that’s the coolest name I ever heard.” She said and smiled. “I really like your eyes Winter.” She smiled. Winter. The sound of her voice calling my name is simply irresistible. “Well can you sit up?” she said in an almost worried tone. “Yeah, I guess.” I said and sat up slowly.

I looked at the house. Examining every corner and every detail there is to absorb. There are a couple of cobwebs. Children huddled in a corner looking at me. A boy being pulled by a girl was looking madly at me and I looked back at Story. “Oh I’m sorry, they’re a little bit scared and it’s an early morning and I haven’t cleaned the house yet,” Story sighed keeping her hair neat. “It’s okay.” I said. She stood up and gathered the children and talked to the boy. The other girl came to me and started pinching my cheeks. “You’re so cute!” she insisted on saying. Then Story reentered with the same boy on his cool. “Sorry to keep you waiting!.” She said and pushed the children a little bit. “Go on.” She smiled at them. “Hello mister, I’m Marianne.” She smiled. Cute. She is a little girl by the age of five. She wears a ribbon on her head, a red knee level dress, laced socks and a pair of scuffed shoes. She hid behind Story and I smiled. “I’m Lucian.” Another boy said aged 9 wearing a golf hat and some normal boy clothes. As normal as it can get during the Victorian times. “My name is Lisa.” Another girl said she had straight hair tied up in a ponytail wearing a dress that seemed to be like Marianne’s but a different color. “I am Ben.” Another boy said, five years old approximately. Wearing a tattered formal suit.

I smiled at all of them. “Hi, I’m Aubrey.” The girl who was pinching my cheeks introduced herself. I gave a mere smirk. “And lastly,” Story started and elbowed the boy. “Fine, fine, fine. I’m Mauve and it’s not my pleasure to meet you.” The boy gave me a stale look. I hissed. He backed off a few steps. Story giggled. “That’s enough you two.” She smiled. “I really like how you look like now Winter.” Aubrey commented. “Pardon me?” I asked. “I mean, the one sided hair, the whole suit, the lace handkerchief on the suit, the blue gem and the huge silver ring. Are you from the empire?” She asked. There’s really no stopping this blabber. “Yeah.” I answered, snorted and looked away. “Wow, you’re a vampire slayer? You must be immortal!” She said. “How many vampires have you killed?” She asked again excited about the answer. “They don’t let children hunt for vampires until 18.” I answered. “And besides, I can’t hunt…my...own kind.” I answered and closed my eyes. “Y-You’re a vampire?!” She answered back. “Hush!” I said. “I won’t harm anyone. Vampires are only tempted to devour human blood if they have tasted it themselves and I haven’t so don’t worry.” I said and looked away. “I knew it! I’m not spending another second with that little brat!” Mauve shouted. “”Oh shut up! Do you think I like it being with you?!” I answered. I was starting to get pissed off by the behavior of this little kiddo.

“I don’t like you here!” he shouted at me. “Good! I’m going! Show me the way out please!” I shouted. “You can’t go.” Aubrey answered in a sad tone. “Why can’t I?” I asked again. “Because we’ve all been trying to get out of this hell!” Mauve shouted back. “What?!” I asked. “Mauve…”Story murmured. Cyclone burst through the door pushing Story aside. I ran with my fastest and caught Story. I hissed at him. I pushed the others behind me. “What do you want?!” I snarled. “Let me get you through the rules here, Summer my boy.” He began and motioned for five security guards to enter and locked the room. “It’s Winter you idiot.” I said. “Right, Winter. Now back to the original business. I keep these little darlings here especially Mauve, to do me favors. And for the next 7 hours you’ll be doing the same.” He smiled at me. “What do you mean?” I asked. “Why, I thought you’re a smart one. Steal for me of course.” He said and clapped for the guard holding a box. “Whywould I steal for you and what are you doing to Story and Aubrey?” I asked.

“Because you’re mine now. Story and Aubrey, I haven’t found a use for them but maybe someday they would make me a happy man.” He said. “What?!” I asked not contented of the answer. “I mean, these girls are pretty. Especially Story. Some men would pay much to sleep with them.” He said. I looked at Story and Aubrey. They were crying. “You bastard! Don’t you dare lay a hand on them or God help me I’ll kill you!” I shouted. A guard got hold of me and two. They removed my earring. “Hey! Don’t take that! My father gave that to me!” I shouted. They pinned another one. “It doesn’t make much difference. It’s still the same gothic cross right? Only, it has 500 volts of electricity.” He said with a smile. “One wrong move and I’ll fry your brains and kill your little crush here.” He said and placed a hand on Story. She was shaking. “Steal for me Winter.” He said and offered me the hand. I hesitated. For the sake of Story and the others. “Fine.” I said and shook his hand.

“Good.” He said and turned towards the door. “I have the remote.” He said. “You’ll pair up with Mauve.” He said. “WHAT?!” We shouted in chorus. “Any objections?” He asked raising an eyebrow at us. Each didn’t say anything but a grunt. “Good.” He said and went out of the house. “Darn it.” I whispered. “You bet.” He said.

†CHAPTER 3: THE RACKET†

That same night, Cyclone pulled Mauve and me out of the door leaving the girls and the kids behind. “Here’s what you’re gonna do.” He handed the two of us circus tickets. “We’re dragged out of the house to watch a circus?” Mauve reacted. “Shut up stupid do you want to get this done or what?!” I asked. Gladly, he shut up. “In the circus, a lot of people stay, now there are ladies there who would possibly bring money. Now I know that you Winter can shape shift. Now there are ladies there with wild hearts. Seduce them and lure them out of their seats while Mauve gathers the jackpot.” He said and sent us off.

“What does he mean by, ‘While Mauve gathers the jackpot? Am I not cute enough to be the one to lure the ladies?” He asked me over and over again. “Shut up and work.” I replied and shifted myself into a young man of twenties. “Tell me I’m gorgeous.” I smirked and stood at the circus door. The guard stopped us. “Ticket?” He said. “Here, he’s my little brother.” I smiled and entered. “I’m not your little brother you idiot.” He said. “I’ll bite your head off if someone hears that Mauve.” Eventually I’m becoming dominant here. “Now listen, bump into a lady and make sure she’s pretty. I’ll help her out and you grab the silver.” I planned. “Fine, piece of cake.” He said. He ran and bumped into a blonde girl. I must say, he has a good eye when it comes to girls. “I’m sorry mademoiselle, did my brother hurt you?” I asked in British accent. “Oh dear.” She looked at me and blushed. Cute. I saw Mauve snatch the silver into his coat. “I’ll look after him better.” I said and kissed her hand. She giggled covering her laugh with the glove on her hand.

Then we went on for the whole night this is what we did. Every night went on. The days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months, months turned to years. Every night continued to stay like this. One night, after a night’s work, I saw Story walking towards the hills. I followed her.

“Hey,” I said and sat down beside her. We were like this now. For a year. Three years passed since the day we met. To cope up with the events, I told her I love her a year before I was glad she said yes and I’ve been giving superior care and concern for her. She was afraid to loose me. And I was afraid to loose her as well. I was there when she broke to tears when she needed a shoulder, I came. The fondness grew and grew I tried to stop it but then it was hard to keep love imprisoned. She loved me but I resisted. After some time, I gave up running away from myself. I admitted that I love her and now she’s mine. Happiness. Something I never felt inside the empire. Every time I look into her eyes I see smiles that I can never replace. I sat down and she huddled close.

“What are you thinking about?” I asked her gently squeezing her into my arms. “Nothing. This is the only time I think about nothing. I like looking at the moon at midnight.” She smiled. “Why?” I asked suddenly interested. “Because although people think that the sun gives a lot of uses over the moon, they are wrong. The sun gives warmth and light during the morning yes but the thing is, why can’t they see the moon’s struggle to light the darkness of the night?” She asked. I never thought Story could be this deep. It makes me fall in love with her even more. “Like you,” She smiled at me. “Me?” I asked with a smile. “Yes you, they think that you are of no use as a commoner, the people outside I mean, they don’t notice you, they never paid attention to you and they tried to kill and hunt your kind. What they don’t know is that they are the monsters and you Winter, you mean a lot to us. To the people you devote your time and life to. You were always there for us just like how the moon lights the dark skies of night. You are the light in my darkest skies Winter.” She smiled again. And there, right there, in the light of the moon, I gave her a kiss. It wasn’t those usual that I give her. It was more of a thank you for being there. Thank you for the love. Thank you for being you. It was warm and soft. It felt like it was my first and it sent shivers down my body. After it, she heaved a breath and lay down on my chest. “I will always love you Winter.” She said and gave me a peck on the cheek. “I will love you forever.” I said.

The next night, we had no rackets because it was raining hard. I knew it will rain for a long time because of the season. I was glad for I have more time now for the kids and Story. I stood beside Story helping her through the household chores. I noticed that nothing changed to me physically. I was 18 but I still looked 15. Looking at the mirror, I was startled when someone barged into the room. It was Mauve drenched in the rain. “Mauve? What happened to you?” I asked. “Winter, hide Story and Aubrey, now!” he shouted. “What? Why?” I asked. “He ran and grabbed Aubrey and Story. “What’s wrong Mauve?” They asked. “It’s Cyclone, he found these group of men that gave money to sleep with Story and Aubrey Winter! You’re the only chance! You’re the one who can jump great distances! Hide them at least before you come back!” He exclaimed.

I was moved. I felt like the whole world stopped right in front of me. No. Not this. I grabbed both of them hoisting them by the waist. I ran out of the door and jumped. I didn’t know where to land but I kept on jumping. I jumped a lot of times until I felt that I can’t go anymore and I didn’t have the sight of the house I sat for a while trying to catch my breath.

“Mauve, where are they!” Cyclone gave Mauve a slap that made him fall on his back and bleed. “You can’t do this to us Cyclone! We’ve served you for her you can’t take her away!” He shouted back. “I don’t care, I need more money!” He shouted and looked around. “They’re gone Cyclone.” Mauve stood on his feet. “Where’s that vampire Winter?” He said. Mauve was stopped. “They’re with him aren’t they?” he said and turned to Mauve with a sly grin. “Enough Cyclone! I beseech you!” He pleaded. “Now I have the higher hand.” He said and kicked Mauve. He sent him hitting into a wall and loose his consciousness. He pressed the button for my earring.

I felt electricity on my body, too much, I couldn’t handle. I was in terrible pain. “Winter?” Story asked worried. “Don’t touch me!” I shouted. “Are you okay?” she asked again. I lost all consciousness and so I screamed.

“I got you.” Cyclone smiled and called to his guards. “Follow the shout the girls are with him.” He said. The guards ran to where I am. I wanted to stop but it seemed like I’m not the one controlling my body now. They got me. Cyclone turned the controls off. I fell strength-less. I was pulling myself together to instruct the terrified girls. “Are these the girls?” The men asked. “Yes they are, don’t they look pretty and fresh?” Cyclone answered. “Yes, I like the one with green eyes.” The man said. Story. He can’t take Story. With my returned strength I shouted at them. “Aubrey! Story! Run!” I shouted. Cyclone pinned me to the ground with his foot. “Stay down, you imbecile!” He shouted at me. “Run after them, now!” He shouted at the guards. “I’m sorry Mr. Smith, these girls are giving me quite a goose-chase but don’t worry my men are on them. “ Cyclone said and put more weight on my back.

Not so long, the guards returned with Aubrey and Story. They were trying to break loose but obviously they can’t. They looked like doves trying to kill eagles. Story was handed to the man. “Story…” I whispered. She kicked the man. His hand loosened its grip but it was regained again. “You fool!” he shouted and slapped Story. “Story!” I shouted. More weight. I gaped at my breath. I saw the man pull a small silver dagger from behind his coat. “No!” I shouted and tried to squirm. “This will teach you manners.” He said and stabbed Story by the abdomen. I saw her strength drift away. She was in shocked pain unable to utter a word. I was looking at her. Tears were on the sides of my eyes. I needed to shout but I had too little breath to even heave a sigh.

“Winter…”She uttered. I felt that all my senses came back in a flash. “STORY!” I shouted. Adrenalin rushed all over me. I stood up not caring about Cyclone’s foot penetrating my ribcage. The guards came running towards me. Aubrey stood in a corner terrified. I was screaming, I was ruthless. There were three guards and three other men, Cyclone and the men who killed Story. One came rushing with a dagger. I stepped on his shoulders kicking his head and breaking his spinal cord at the same time. I grabbed his dagger and jabbed the two in a swift run. “Winter, you wouldn’t do this!” Cyclone said pressing the button. I screamed the loudest and ran to stab the merchants. I did this successfully. I can’t feel the electricity now. It was still raining hard. I threw the corpse to Cyclone who eventually lost hold of the button when he fell on the rained floor. “Winter calm down son.” He said with a stupid treacherous smile on his lips. He didn’t show it though. “You…you killed…my life!” I shouted. “No!” he shouted. I jumped to him and pinned him on the ground. My eyes met his and he is scared. “Are you scared?” I said. “Of course not.” He replied stubbornly in between breaths. “You should be.” I said and sank my incisors on his neck. I hit the jugular vein and pure blood came rushing out of his body and into my mouth. My eyes widened. It was all good. No, not good. Addictive. I drank to my heart’s content. My mind is telling me to stop but I can’t. I wanted more. It was almost as good as learning to breathe. The joy of grasping your first breath.

The blood was still rushing into my mouth when I finally stopped myself. I was breathing heavily and blood was oozing down my chin making small puddles of rain turn red. I looked at Aubrey. She was terrified. She looked at me then to Story then hid her face in horror. I remembered Story. I wiped the traces of blood on my lips and hurried to Story.

She was still breathing, but she breathed every breath like it was her last. Her cheeks were turning cold. There was blood from her lips. My monstrosity urged me to do to her what I did to Cyclone but I fought the urge. “Story…Story talk to me.” I said. “Win…ter…”She breathed. “I’m here.” I said holding her hands. Right now, I wanted to turn her to something like me. I know I’ll live even after this situation. But I can’t. She’ll suffer the sadness that I do. “Take care of yourself.” She said. “I…lo…ve…you…Win…ter.” She said and stopped. I felt her energy leave her body. Her grip loosened and her hand fell. Her cheeks and lips turned pale. Everything came back to me. The times we had together. The first meeting. The first time I held her hand by accident. Our first kiss. The first time I told her I love her. The necklace I gave her. The night at the hill. I saw this all while I hear what we talked about the night we were on the hill: I will always love you Winter…I will love you forever. “STORY!” I shouted. It was the longest and loudest of all.

I lost my life. My only happiness. My smile. I lost her. I cried hard and tried to bring her back to life. Mauve managed to cross the blocks even if he’s injured. “Winter…” he said. “She’s gone now…”he said and helped me burry Story. On her cross, I placed the necklace, she was gone. What now? I’m gone. My happiness and smiles are all gone.

†CHAPTER 4: THE BEGINNING†

I spend all the week at Story’s burial site. I was talking to her. She was talking to me in my heart. I hear her giggles and laughs. I see her smiles and tears. The face she had when she died in my arms will haunt me forever. Mauve emerged from the house and went to me. “Hey,” he said. I didn’t look at him. “I know it’s hard. I loved Story too you know.” He said. “She…died in front of me…I…I wasn’t there to stop that…no….I was there but I didn’t do anything…I watched her…die.” My mind was filled with all of these. “Look, I know how hard it is. But do you think she’ll be happy there when she knows that you are not taking good care of yourself.” Mauve said. Take care of yourself. I heard her say that before she passed away. “What would she want me to do?” I asked. “She wants you to go on with your life. Be happy. She’ll always stay on your heart.” Mauve said with a smile. “Do you want that?” I asked her in my mind. “Yes, very.” She said and smiled. “Okay I’m on this new road.” I said and stood up with a newfound energy.

A decade passed. The kids went away and were adopted with the help of an orphanage. The last time I checked, Ben was returned to his real family. Marianne was adopted by a rich couple and was being loved like their own. Lucian was adopted by a humble family. He was now being sent to school. And lastly, Lisa was found by her older sister and she was kept. Aubrey told us she wanted to be away and after some years, we found her an apprentice of a modest. Mauve and I are the only one left. I was happy that all of them are finding the proper things meant for them but I was sad too. I noticed that all of my friends are moving away. One by one, moving far away. Mauve looked like a twenty nine year-old now. And I still look like fifteen. Immortality. I find it a curse. I make friends and eventually see them go. The saddest thing in the world. The wound in my heart for Story was still fresh. It will be forever.

That night, I sat in the roof. It is what I do to remember Story and also to control the urge in me waiting to be released. She has always loved looking at the moon. Mauve emerged from the open window. “Hey,” he said and sat beside me. “You look weathered.” He said.

“Really?” I asked. “Yeah, tell me what’s wrong.” Mauve said. I looked at him. “Well, it’s been a long time and ten years passed and I should look 28 but I still look like 15. I mean, look at you. And…the others are gone. My friends are all going away.” I answered. “That’s not true. Not all of your friends are gone. I’m still here. I’ll stay here with you.” He said. “You can’t.” I said. “And why not?” He asked. “Because I am immortal and you are not. Someday, like them, you too will find your life and leave me. I’ll live forever. I have a lot of time to waste. But you can’t because you are a mortal and you only have a short time to live. I want you to go.” I said. “What? But…how about you?” Mauve said. “I don’t know. Don’t worry, I’ll live.” I said.

I heard that there are some job offers in another state and Mauve would do. I bought him a ship ticket and sent him on his way. Now I’m alone. I moved from house to house, place to place so that none may know me.

194 years later, well at least I had some changes on my physical looks. Now, I look 20. I moved to a place and thought that no one would notice if I didn’t grow old. There were too many people there. I didn’t have a job because they said I don’t have my proper files. So, I made my own mastery. I sleep with rich girls to get money. Right now, I have five girlfriends. Not that I like it. I have never felt empathy for these girls. Story will always stay in my heart. One is Isabella, she’s a singer. Another is Jean, she’s a model. Aurora, a rich girl since birth. Lola, a designer. Michaela, a president of Stevens, a modeling agency. To me it doesn’t seem bad. As long as I have shelter, clothes and money to buy stuff I need and I want, I’m going to live.

It was a cold winter morning, I opened my eyes. Good, there’s no sun. It’s going to be a great day after all. I thought and I was smiling sheepishly until I heard my doorbell buzzing like crazy. I grimaced and checked the refrigerator for food. I was humming ignoring the crazy sound of the doorbell. Cake, Pie, Meat, Turkey, Candy, Ah! There’s chocolate. I’m going to take you for breakfast. Now to drink…Let’s see…Water, Juice, Beer! Okay now breakfast is served. Chocolate and Beer plus maraschino cherries is black forest. That stupid doorbell how the heck did I forgot to cut the wire now I have to suffer another morning ruined. I said and walked down the aisle to the door. “Hey! Open up Winter! Come on!” Lola’s small voice boomed from the speakers. I pressed the button and said. “Okay I’m opening the door can you stop yelling at the receiver now?” I said with my usual emotionless voice.

I opened the door and a pale white girl with a pink nose and rosy cheeks entered her thick, long and curly eye lashes were batting at me. Her eye brows and small lips are scrunched to a frown. “You shouldn’t keep me waiting that long outside.” She said. “I was sleeping.” I replied. She’s Lola. She moved to the kitchen and a scream emerged from there. I rushed. “What now?” I said. “You eat stuff like these for breakfast?” She said covering her eyes pointing at the food I prepared. “Uh, yeah.” I said and sat down. She did too and watched me gobble up the food. “You are going to get cancer someday.” She said and ruffled my hair. “I know isn’t that great?” I said. “Of course not, I mean if you have cancer you’ll die early and you’ll have less time to be with us.” She said obviously pointing out the others. “Yeah, sure.” I said and ate all that’s left. “So, are you ready?” She said. “For what?” I replied. “Come on you promised me we’d go out today remember?” She said. “No.” I replied without turning to her. “Yes you did. So put your coat on and come with me.” She said and threw my coat at me. “Look at you. You’re too…black and white.” She said. “What.” I said. “Look you never wear any other color than black, let’s face that. And your skin is so pale. The only things that contrast the colors you are wearing are your eyes.” She said. “So?” I asked. “Urgh! As a fashion expert—“ She started. “Yeah, Yeah.” I said and covered her mouth. “Can we go now?” I said and brought my laptop with me. I started my earphones on the loudest volumes.

We ate at a restaurant and all then we went shopping again. All the time I was on my earphone. I just wanted the day to pass by. I nodded whenever she asked a question which I really didn’t hear. She left me at a café and there I started upgrading my laptop and stuff. Then I turned off my music and laptop and started heading home. The first turn, second, third, wait, there was something on my side mirror. I stopped the car. A little girl was being chased by someone. Why? I parked the car to the nearest I can and ran after them. I chased them in stealth until we stopped in an alley. The child was crying. She was being trapped by the man and now she has no where to go. Then the man started talking. I can’t make out what he was saying but then the child shouted for help. I didn’t know why but I sprang into action. I walked slowly with poise behind them. The child looked at me and the man did too. “If you don’t want to get hurt leave us alone.” He said and turned around. A wrong move. I stepped forward and when he was about to look behind me to tell me to go the second time I jumped in front of him. “How did you do that?” He said. His eyes are wide now and I can smell fear. His scent wasn’t something I would like to devour and so is his blood but if I want to save the child he should do.

I inched forward and disarmed his knife. He tried punching me. He sent one at me and I caught his hand. I flipped him and aimed for his spine. He was paralyzed now and had nothing to do to object. I bit him. Once again the bloodlust came over me. The feeling of rushing blood, its warmth. Simply irresistible. I had my time but then I noticed the child looking at me from behind. I stopped and looked at her. I wiped the blood on my mouth and stared at her. “Is he dead now mister?” she said. She came to me and pulled a handkerchief from her pocket. Her knee level cloak and dress are waving in the wind. She smiled and started wiping the blood left on my cheek. “There.” She said and smiled. Usually whenever I try to save someone the way I did they came running and shouting at the top of their lungs. But she was different. She was seven. Her skin was white and her hair was dark auburn almost black. Her hair was long by the waist and curly at the ends forming locks. She had a pink nose and her breath smelled like peppermint. Her scent was something sweet. Not too sweet, something that would calm even the wildest beast. I should know. She was wearing this now blood-stained white lace dress, a pair of white school shoes, a white cloak hanging on her back, a puffy hat, a red ribbon, knee high socks and a pair of white gloves. Her eyes were, the sane hue as her hair.

Whenever I looked at them I can see myself. A monster trapped in beauty of his own. A hopeless picture of clamor. A man of no dreams or directions. I looked away. “What are you still doing here? Shouldn’t you be running off now screaming?” I said and looked back avoiding her eyes. “Why would I want to do that?” she said. “You saved me and I am most grateful.” She said. I was kneeling in front of her. She inched forward and hugged me. I smelled more of her scent which urged the bloodlust. I gave a faint growl or was it a yelp? She felt that and she did something to me that stopped the urge. I stayed there still in the warmth of her embrace. After some time she let go of me. “You should go home now.” I said and smiled at her. She smiled back. “Aren’t you, afraid of me? I mean I just drank the blood of a man right in front of you.” I said. She shook her head to a no. “As I’ve said, you saved my life.” She said and smiled again. “Maybe we’d meet again. Come I’ll take you to your house, show me the way.” I said and held her hand. She stopped and started crying.

“Hey, is there anything wrong?” I said. As a monster, I was pretty gentle. “I don’t have a home anymore. I was kidnapped. I don’t know where I live I forgot about everything.” She said and cried more. I started thinking. She can’t come with me. She’s human. But, she’s different. Maybe I should make an exception. No, that will be a terrible idea. I can’t just leave her like this. How can she forget everything anyway? Does she have amnesia? “Can I please come with you?” She said. “What?” I asked pretending that I didn’t hear her. “That isn’t a good idea.” I said. I looked at her and she cried more. Oh great. “Fine, but I don’t really know how to take care of a child. What’s your name?” I asked her. “I don’t know. But you can give me if you want.” She said. “I’ll name you Reverie.” I said. “It’s nice, I like it.” She smiled. “You see, I don’t have a dream and now, as my dream, live a life that will make you happy. Be someone you want to be. As my reverie, simply be happy.” I said and smiled at her. “Let’s go,” I said and held her hand. She kept on looking at me and smiling as we aimed for the car. She sat there beside me at the passenger’s seat playing with my laptop while I was driving. I felt good. Maybe I’m not so much of a monster after all.

†CHAPTER 5: A PROMISE TO PROTECT†

Fifteen years from saving Reverie, she grew up to be a fine lady. Right now, she looked like my age. She was an energetic young lady who loved drawing, reading, writing, singing and stuff. I guess I could call her an artist. She’s a weird type and she doesn’t have much friends. Well I can’t blame her. Living with a vampire isn’t always that easy. Like me she is fascinated with the color black for her it is both elegance and casualty. She’s a good cook and she likes animals. She had a black dog who is weirdly friends with a black cat. But one thing is for sure about her, you wouldn’t dare to not choose her among a crowd.

“Good day-!” She shouted as she entered the house. “How many times do I have to tell you to keep it down?” I said blowing the smoke from the stick of cigarette from my mouth. “And how many times do I have to tell you to stop sucking on those cancer sticks? Three sticks get 10 minutes from your lifespan you know!” She said. “I’m immortal. Remember?” I asked her. “Still you’re being a bad influence! What are you going to say if you found me smoking like a chimney?” She asked. “I’d ask for one stick.” I said and gave her a sly smile. “Hmpf!” She snorted and picked the cigarettes in front of me and threw them out of the window. I was looking at her in awe. She returned and pulled the last stick on my mouth and she stepped on it. She disappeared again and returned with the vacuum cleaner and vacuumed the cigarette butts and ashes on the floor. “You know what? What will your house be if I’m not here? A dumpster?” She said. I giggled covering my mouth and closing my eyes then looked back at her. “What?” She exclaimed. Her eyebrows were scrunched to a frown. “Sorry, nothing.” I smiled. This was the everyday scene inside the house.

Now, I had other girlfriends. Of course, we moved to a new house right after I adopted Reverie some fifteen years ago. Now, there’s Claudia, Louise and Lora. Like the others before, they were big time. It was autumn nearly winter again. It was an early Saturday morning I woke up and saw Reverie on the living room. “Hey,” I said. “Oh!” she said and hid whatever it is she was doing. “What’s that?” I asked. “Nothing, the breakfast is ready on the table now.” She said. “Let me see that.” I said and struggled with her with a smile to find out what she was doing. “Give it back!” She exclaimed as I pinned her down on the couch while I examine the thing. She was knitting something that seemed to be the sleeve of a sweater. “What is this? A sleeve?” I asked. “Stop insulting me and give that back!” She said and pushed me off the couch. I landed on my back on the rug laughing. “It’s a scarf okay!” She screamed at me and aimed a punch. I was laughing so hard that all I managed to do was squirm under her threat. “I know it looks bad.” She said and sat down with a frown. “Hey,” I said holding back the laughter. “Maybe for now it looks bad like a sleeve or something,” I stopped tried to hold the laughter and coughed. “But I’m sure when it’s done it’s going to look good.” I said.

“Really?” She said and looked at me blushing. I took that as a happy agreement. “Yeah,” I said and stood up ruffling her hair a little bit. I went into the kitchen and got the glass of milk and buttered toast she prepared for me. Biting the toast and holding the glass of milk, I made my way back to the living room and opened my plasma television. Reverie was, again, wrestling with the knitting needles with her cute eyebrows scrunched into a determined frown and her lips pouted. “Hey, is that for somebody?” I asked her. “Yep!” She said and continued on. “I remember that there’s a tradition that every fall, girls knit scarves for the guys they like and give it to them on winter.” I said and nibbled on my toast. “Uhuh.” She said. “Well, who is that for? Do you like someone at school now?” I asked her and drank half of my milk and continued nibbling on the toast. The sound of the needles stopped. I looked at her from behind my chair biting the already half toast. She was looking at the work, biting her lower lip, blushing tremendously. “Uh, Reverie? Is there something wrong?” I asked. She heaved a surprised sigh and looked at me with widened eyes. “No of course not. I don’t like anybody at school.” She said with a nervous giggle. I shuddered. “Okay whatever you say.” I said and finished the rest of my breakfast.

I immediately took a bath and dressed up. “Are you going anywhere?” Reverie said standing up and getting my coat for me. “Thanks, yeah, Claudia asked me to pick her from her apartment. Could you prepare dinner for us? She said she wanted to stay here for the night. I think I’ll get money in the morning if you know what I mean.” I said and winked at her. “Yeah, I know. What would you like for dinner?” Reverie said. Her usual energy faded away. “Just check the cookbook for anything that you know I usually cook when she’s coming.” I said. “You know I’m doing this for money right?” I asked her. “It’s just…never mind…just take care of yourself and no smokes okay?” she said with a faint smile. “No smokes, got it.” I said and grabbed the keys on the hook.

I walked to the elevator and closed in with the operator, Mr. Tuckett. “You’re meeting someone again Winter?” He said. “Yep.” I answered with a small smile. “Who is it this time? Louise again?” He continued again with a smile. “No, Claudia.” I answered. He’s an old man and a good one too. “Good luck then boy.” He said. “Take care Mr. Tuckett.” I waved and walked to my car. It’s a new one. I chose a Mazda 3 this time. I drove my way to Claudia’s apartment while I eat peppermint candies. Mrs. Whisby gave it to me yesterday. She said her daughter came home from overseas and brought a lot. I stopped and waved at a girl standing by the hall.. She smiled and went to my window. She kissed me and went to the other side to sit. “What took you so long?” She said. “I just woke up and I had to tell Reverie stuff so the house is ready when we arrive.” I said. “So where are we going?” She asked. “Where do you want to go?” I asked her back.

Meanwhile, Reverie was eating her lunch. Her knitting stuff were beside her on the table. “Could you prepare dinner for us?...what am I your free maid? Claudia asked me to pick her from her apartment…how come I didn’t get picked up from school? That Winter is going to get it when he gets home and I don’t care if that bossy “Claudia” is with him!” She exclaimed pretending to choke someone with a spoon.

The hours went by and we needed to go home. When we reached the house Reverie was still on her knitting thing. “Hey, have you prepared dinner?” I asked her while I got Claudia’s coat. “Yeah.” She said without looking at me as usual. “Come on let’s eat. What’s for dinner?” I asked her. She stopped knitting and went with us to the dining room . She turned her back at me. “Pot roast.” She said. “Ooh.” Claudia smiled. “I want to sit with you Winter, honey.” Claudia said. “Sure.” I said and pulled a sit. I looked at Reverie and saw her mocking what Claudia said. I widened my eyes at her and she widened her eyes back at me. I sat down and prepared Claudia’s meal. “Feed me.” She said with a smile. “Okay.” I said and cut a small part of the meat for Claudia. “There, how is it?” I asked her. “It tastes—“ Reverie banged her hands on the table and stood up with her head faced down. “What’s wrong?” I asked Reverie. “Champagne. I forgot to bring it out.” She said and went to get it. “Sorry, she’s been in a bad mood lately.” I said and continued to feed her. After dinner, we decided to go for a swim at the rooftop. I asked Reverie to come with us to get the bottles in there and bring them down to Mr. Lindgren, the janitor. She came, unwillingly, of course. Now, Claudia and I were sitting on the sun-bathing chairs positioned by the pool. Claudia asked me to kiss her. She was inching forward nearer and nearer. Reverie was passing at the back holding the bottles. She frowned and kicked the beach ball towards us. It hit Claudia on her head. The impact intruded and eventually stopped the upcoming kiss. I giggled. “Ow!” She screamed.

“Why are you giggling?!” She screamed at me. “Sorry honey.” I said and coughed then I swam and caught her to swim with me. Reverie went inside the elevator, placed the case of bottles on the ground and sighed. “Is there something wrong Reverie dear?” Mr. Tuckett asked. “Is my little angel jealous of Claudia?” He said with a smile. “Of course not Mr. Tuckett.” Reverie said and sighed. She smiled at Mr. Tuckett. “You’re going to Mr. Lindgren?” He asked “Yes.” Reverie answered. “It’s his birthday today.” He said. “Really? I should get him a present!” Reverie exclaimed. “Okay then, leave those bottles here for now and after you have gotten him a present you could return and get them here.” He said with a smile. The elevator door opened on the ground floor. “Thanks Mr. Tuckett.” Reverie waved a goodbye. She ran into the nearest store and bought a handkerchief with the name Erick on it. That is the full name of Mr. Lindgren. Erick Lindgren. She saw a silver ring with my name on it and she bought it immediately. She dashed back to the elevator and got the bottles. Then she headed back to Mr. Lindgren’s trash room. She placed the bottles there and went to Mr. Lindgren’s room. When she entered the room she saw Mrs. Massey, Mr. Smith, Mrs. Whisby and Mr. Lindgren sitting on the small living room, laughing. “Ah! Reverie dear! Come, come!” Mr. Lindgren said. Reverie hugged Mr. Lindgren. “Happy Birthday Mr. Lindgren I’m sorry I didn’t know I didn’t have time to make you or look for a good present.” She said and gave the handkerchief. “I like your presents dear, well chosen or not, I like them all.” He said.

“I need to go now Mr. Lindgren.” Reverie said. “I’m sorry, I don’t really have much time to chat with you, Winter might have something for me to do.” She said and waved at the group of old people chatting on the living room. She went inside the house and barged straight into my room. I’m pretty sure she didn’t like what she saw. Good thing it was done. “I’m sorry!” She said and closed her eyes. She ran out of the room crying and went back at her room. “Wait a second Claudia I just need to talk to her.” I said. “Take your time.” She said. I got my robe on and slowly went inside her room. She was sitting on her bed crying while hugging her pillow. I closed the door behind me and sat down beside her. I was choosing out the words to say when she stood up from the bed and went to her wardrobe looking for something. “Look, Reverie—“ I said just before I can finish my sentence, she handed me the scarf and the ring. “I made the scarf for you, and I bought the ring for you.” She said between sobs. “Reverie, does this mean…” I started. “Yes Winter, I do, I’m in love with you. And I am very stupid for being in love with you!” She exclaimed.

There was nothing I can do but sigh and feel sorry for her. She was right. I could not love anyone. Not in my state. Even if I wanted to, I can’t. She cried more and more. I remembered the day I saved her. She was happy for meeting me. Now I felt guilty for taking her. I reached for my necklace. It has been with me ever since I was born. I took it off and showed it to her. “What’s that?” She asked me and looked at the necklace hanging from my hand in front of her. “You know what; I’ve been living for over 227 years now. And ever since I was born, I had this. Now I’m giving it to you.” I said and held her hand. She looked at me blushing and looked back at me. “Why?” She asked. “To remind you of my promise, that no matter what, you’ll always have a special place in my heart.” I told her. She smiled a faint smile and nodded.

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