Casey couldn’t believe that she was riding in a bus, as the ride wasn’t cramped or full of people trying to shove baggage in places that would constantly bump her knees. The bus she was currently on was almost like a roving house. “This is amazing, Martin. I never thought to walk barefoot on a bus before.” She mentioned and curled her toes in the plush carpet, giggling lightly as the soft fiber tickled her toes.

“My pleasure, Miss Rivers.” He stood up from his swivel chair and tugged on the tailor fit jacket Casey had put on. “I do believe that this look fits you.” He walked around the twenty-three-year-old and slid his hands over the business attire she was wearing, checking its fit. “I also approve of the color you are wearing. Navy Blue with a cream silk blouse is perfect.”

Casey grunted and wiggled her shoulders, “I can hardly breath with my chest like this. It feels like I am being crushed slowly by this bra.”

Ignoring the comment, Martin knelt down and inspected Casey's skirt. “I am always impressed with Jeanine’s ability to make a woman’s hips look fantastic. She fit you perfectly.” He added, “You look both serious and wonderfully feminine.” Wiggling his finger, Martin slid off the bangles dangling from her wrists. “No more than five pieces of jewelry. I would go with white gold or silver. Elegant and not gaudy.” He sighed and plucked the extra sets of earrings from the top of her ear. “That screams college or teenager.”

“I’m in college, Marty.” Casey giggled and with her chocolatey brown eyes almost begged, “Please let me breathe. I really want to take this abusive thing off my chest.”

“Very true. Didn’t you mention to me earlier while we discussed your ensemble that you were about to graduate?” Martin walked into the back of the bus and returned with a shoe tree and a tray of jewelry. “Three years for a bachelor's degree is quite fast, Miss Rivers.”

“Casey, I asked you to call me Casey before that.” She winked and sat down in one of the chairs. “Yes, three years. Marine Biology. I started college a bit late, I worked for a couple years before.” Casey tugged at the tight strap on her shoulder. “This thing is going to cut off circulation and I won’t be able to swim.”

Martin picked out a set of sparkling sapphire earrings and snapped them in Casey’s ears. “I beg your pardon. Casey it is. I am just in the habit of being formal.” Looking at the earrings from a step away he nodded, “I apologize that you are a little uncomfortable. I can pull over and have Jeanine take a look to make sure that it is fitted properly.” He picked out a set of black pumps that had a slight heel to them. “This should complete your excellent transformation. The shoes will not hurt your feet as you inspect the grounds.”

“You keep adding things to my task list and we are still an hour away from arrival.” Casey laughed and tried on the shoes. “No, it’s okay. Jeanine was great, I am sure it’s me.” She paused for a moment. “By the way, you still haven’t told me what Twilight Tonight does.” Picking up a thick silver necklace she held it below her neck and looked at Martin for approval.

“That is too thick for your attire, Casey.” Taking the wide necklace, he put it on the tray and pulled a simple white gold chain, adorned with sapphires that matched her earrings. “I think that is better for your current look.” Martin walked over to the small refrigerator and pulled out a couple bottles of ice cold water, opened one and set it in the small holder for Casey, “Twilight Tonight. It is at its very heart, an on demand company.” He opened his own water and took a sip, then sat in his chair. “I am the owner and your mistress was kind enough to fund it when I needed the capital.” Pausing to look at his phone, Martin continued, “Since I am a concierge and like what I do, I thought about how to make the service more. So I came up with Twilight Tonight. I own four warehouses in this area and another five in Richmond, with an extra one in Petersburg. My clients can order straight from Twilight Tonight, or use a special code with other partnered retailers.” Curling his eyebrow, he looks back at his phone and slowly keeps talking about his business. “The short version is, thanks to Doctor Moreau, other’s of her special nature use the service to cater to their every whim.” He winked, “She suggested Richmond and Petersburg. My Virginia beach clients, except for Vivienne, are all wealthy clients that enjoy being waited on.”

“Like, how many more are there than Vivienne and Faye. I mean I know that there’s more, obviously. Thanks to that mess with Faye’s hotel, but they seem to be rare?” Watching Martin look at his phone reminded Casey of her own and she responded to a text from Brian. “Humm, Brian seems to be freaking out, let me call him real fast.”

“I wouldn’t do that if I were you, Miss Rivers. I would suggest turning off your phone right now.” Martin handed her his phone. “Perhaps contact your mistress.”

“Why? What is..” Casey looked at his phone and glared at Martin. “What…oh, no…” Casey dropped the phone and started shaking and crying, sending mascara streaking down her cheeks.

“Call your mistress. Use my phone and shut yours off, I beg you.” Martin gently pulled her phone from her unmoving hand and shut it down. Standing up from his chair, the concierge pulled Casey from her seat and pulled her into a hug. “I will take care of the call, Miss Rivers. Let’s get you in the back to relax.”

When Casey felt Martin’s hands wrap around her frame the shock that had made her start trembling brought her back into the moment. -No. This is wrong, all wrong.- She told herself and finally managed to speak, “I…I will call Vivienne. This is…is my-my-my mess.” She stuttered her way through her words. Pulling away from the hug, Casey started to wipe the tears from her cheeks when a handkerchief found its way into her hand. “Thank you, Martin. I…I will be alright.” Casey sat back down in her chair and looked up at the concierge and sniffled, “I am the castellan right?”

“You are, Miss R..Casey.” Martin reassured her and picked up the water that was next to her.

“Unless you would rather have something with a little more…bite.” He smiled and winked. “Something with more bite, Martin. Thanks.” Casey found Vivienne’s name on Martin’s phone, “Last time I had a breakdown, Vivienne helped me and then Brian let me cry it out.”

She pressed the button to call, “I just…just need to bury this for….”

“Doctor Moreau, Hello there Martin.” Vivienne’s light French accent calmly came through the speaker.

“Viv, it’s me.” Casey sniffled and took a breath. “I have a bit of a problem.”

“Casey.” Vivienne’s tone changed, “What problem, my ward?”

Casey started to answer when she heard Faye clapping in the background and said, “That was much easier than the flying thing, Viv!” Casey waited until Vivienne acknowledged her girlfriend before talking, “The police want to question me in relation to…Linda…um, my roommate who was killed last night.”

“I see.” Vivienne paused for a moment. “I will handle the legal issues, Casey. I am more concerned for you.” Vivienne’s tone eased, “You sound oddly calm, given your reaction to the girl before.”

Casey felt her throat slightly tighten at the thought of the red eyes, “I-I am trying to not break down, I know you are counting on me.” She paused and pushed the horrific memory to the back of her mind again, “Linda and I were clo..cl..close friends, Vivienne.” Casey cracked and started crying once more.

“I will gladly help you when I arrive this evening, Casey.” Vivienne quickly whispered to Faye in the background, “Casey, We can get cozy again when I get there.” Faye offered lightly.

Letting out a half chuckle and sniffling, Casey looked up as Martin handed her a small cocktail glass with a single square of ice and half full of bourbon. “Faye..That…would be wonderful.”

Vivienne’s voice once more floated over the speaker, “My ward, We will find a resolution to this. I will have an attorney contact you within minutes.”

“Thank you, Viv.” Casey sipped her drink and tapped to disconnect the call. “Thank you as well, Marty.”

“I am going to suggest that you do not say or do anything until that attorney makes contact.” Martin sat back in his chair, “Other than let the drink calm your nerves that is.”

As if on cue Martin’s phone rang. Casey drained the bourbon in her glass and handed it back to the concierge and with a pleading nod for more, answered the phone. “Casey Rivers.” She smiled at Martin as he went out of view.

“Miss Rivers. May I call you Casey?” The voice on the other end questioned.

“Sure, who are you by the way?” Casey inquired and heard the soft splash of bourbon hitting the glass once more. She covered the receiver and quickly echoed to Martin, “More than the last time?”

“We call that asking for a double, Casey.” Martin laughed, “Coming right up.”

The voice on the other end of the phone interrupted, “Douglas Dunbar, Esquire.”

Martin smiled, “That is your attorney, it is the official title of a lawyer, Casey. Interesting fact; Esquire is a knight’s shield bearer….”

Casey held up her hand and shook her head, her auburn locks swishing lightly, “Later Marty, thanks.” She winked and spoke into the phone, “Mr. Dunbar, I have a bit of a problem. The police are looking for me and it won’t take much for them to find me. I am on my way to Petersburg ahead of my Mi–Employer and I need to get this settled before I do anything.”

“I know what Dr. Moreau has told me about and what is being presented on the news. You have at least a dozen witnesses willing to say where you were all night, as I understand?” Douglas queried.

“More than that, really. Mister Shores was with me all evening, I don’t think there was a moment I left his sight. I spent the evening making sure Vivienne’s items were packed up. I spent the morning with my mother. Before that I was at home with my boyfriend, Brian Ashburn.”

“Alright Casey, I will have my associates meet you at the manor and they will take statements from everyone. I will handle the police right now. Sadly, the news has made it where you sound wanted. It sounds like you are only wanted for questioning. Your official statement is nothing.” Douglas blurted out in one long breath.

“What if the police here in Petersburg are waiting for me?” Casey asked and bit on her fingernail lightly.

“Assuming they know where you are, the plan is the same. Do not fight, do not say a word. Nothing.” Douglas sighed, “Understand this much. If you are under arrest, there is no way to talk yourself out of it. So anything you say will be recorded and used if necessary. It is important, you say absolutely nothing.”

“Okay.” Disconnecting the call, Casey thought about the prospect of getting arrested and breaking herself free without any problem. She even smiled at the idea of hearing the metal of the handcuffs breaking as she pulled her hands free. -Reckless.- Casey heard Vivienne’s quick warning in her head and dismissed the notion.

“Have something on your mind, Casey?” Martin asked as he watched her brown eyes just stare into the distance for a moment. Handing the young lady her drink, Martin retrieved his phone and sat in the swivel chair he’d been using the entire trip.

“Lot’s really.” Casey realized she’d stopped shaking and brought the drink to her lips, sipping it slowly. “Linda was a very good friend, close friend like I said before.” Shaking her head slowly, Casey had more of her drink, “She wanted to be a pediatrician.” Watching as she shook the single piece of ice in the glass, Casey kept with her story. “She loved kids. Adored them, it was how she paid her way through school. She worked in a daycare part time and even volunteered at a couple child crisis centers.”

“Sounds like Linda was a noble soul, Casey.” Martin offered. “You shared the same dorm room for how long?”

“The entire time I have been there, so three years.” Finishing off the double bourbon, Casey set the glass in the holder on her chair. “She was very cool, I don’t think we ever argued.” Casey wiggled her finger, “She did think I was too wild for my own good.”

Martin pointed to the empty glass, “I would suggest water at this point, Miss Casey.”

“Huh?” Casey looked at the empty glass, “Sure. Water’s great.” Taking a deep breath and leaning back in the luxurious chair, “I mostly just ignored those comments. You called her a noble soul?” Casey lightly laughed, “I guess that fits, she was always far more responsible. Every semester she and I spread out on her bed, looked at all of the classes she and I needed and planned everything nearly to the minute.” Casey closed her eyes, “Keep in mind she made the plan. I didn’t stick to it very well. I attended classes, did my work and even swim practice, right on schedule.” Just as soon as she said swim, Casey’s mind slowed, became sloshy and felt like she was swimming from the bourbon she’d hastily consumed. She kept quiet for a few minutes and let the euphoric sensation fog the anxiety that had been pressing on her. “I-I was saying I didn’t stick to the plan but then I just said I did.” Casey laughed, “What I meant was that for the most part I stuck to the plan. I did the things I wanted outside of things I needed for school and to keep my scholarship.”

Martin handed Casey the water. “That will help clear your head.” Martin knelt down beside Casey and watched her until she opened her rich brown eyes, “You just had three shots of what I consider the best bourbon. Van Winkle, aged twelve years. It doesn’t burn like I am sure you are used to, so the taste might have fooled you into thinking it was a light drink.” He patted Casey on the hand and went back to his seat. “You should be fine by the time we arrive.”

“Thanks.” Casey laughed. “Full of information, aren’t you?”

Martin shrugged, “I have to keep a large array of topics in mind, as I have all kinds of clientele.” He laughed. “Most of them do not wish to play trivia games with me.”

“Thanks for changing the subject.” Casey took a couple gulps of the bottled water, thankful that she was able to push her memory of Linda back. “Are all of your clients…Vampires?” Casey stopped herself, “...No, you said that before. Sorry. My head is a bit foggy, like you said.” Drinking another sip of water, Casey started over. “What are the other…vampires like? I mean how do you avoid being..you know…getting killed?”

“Ah, the million-dollar question. I wondered when you would ask that question, Casey.” Marin raised his eyebrows and smiled. “Allow me to show you.” Martin meticulously removed his tie, setting the fine silk over the arm of his chair, then opened the top button on his shirt to expose a tight silver chain with a quarter moon on it.

Casey immediately felt the charm on it and her senses registered that she was sitting in front of another ward. The high she’d been experiencing faded fairly quickly. “Why-Why didn’t I sense you? I sensed the vampires and wards from the band before.”

“So, Vivienne and you were the reason The Flying Cannibals aren’t with us any longer.” Martin buttoned up his collar and re-knotted his tie perfectly. “I suspect that the reason you noticed before is because you were expecting them.” He tapped on his chest. “It is much like seeing when a brake light is out. You only notice because it sticks out or is different than you expect.”

“Does Vivienne know?” Casey looked at the bottle of water questioningly.

Martin waved his hand, “Please. Miss Rivers. I am the same person you knew two minutes ago. Of course Vivienne knows. Not only did I tell her, she confronted me years ago about it.”

“I guess that makes sense?” Casey replied, still slightly confused. “I can’t believe she didn’t tell me.”

“I wouldn’t think too deeply about it, Casey. What happened in the past isn’t of consequence to you right now.” Martin lightly touched the necklace under his shirt, “It is better that you met me first. What you are walking into, isn’t going to be the safest place. Perhaps Vivienne wanted me to prepare you for what is coming.”

“What do you mean?” Casey picked up the bottle of water and drained it. “Is that why you said all that stuff about being a castellan?”

“Yes. You are the only ward I have ever seen Vivienne have.” Martin got up and took the empty glass bottle and replaced it with a full one for Casey. “I do not wish to diminish your feelings for your friend, but you have much bigger issues to confront in the coming days and hours.” Martin sat down once more, “I am under the employment of a fine lady named Sylvie Miadoka. I belong to the troupe named Ventricular Venus. As you can guess, my role is to keep watch on others and report back to my mistress.”

“I thought you said you keep your clients separate.” Casey folded her arms and raised her eyebrow defiantly.

“I do keep my…clients… separate. My mistress isn’t my client. She is my employer.” Martin cleverly twisted out of the accusation. “I will add this. I have never spoken of Vivienne, to anyone. Sylvie has never asked me directly so I have never had the reason to bring her up.” Martin’s eyes grew wide, “Besides, I am completely frightened by your boss. By telling my mistress anything about Vivienne endangers Luna and the entire troupe.”

“Luna?” Casey started smiling. -Yep, you belong to the best, Rivers.-

“That is Sylvie’s nickname. You will see why when you meet her.” Martin smiled and winked.

“Vivienne told me our job was to hunt other vampires, which means that you and I should be at odds right now.” Casey added calmly.

“She did?” Martin’s smile waned and he raised his eyebrow. “When a vampire says something to you, it is important to be clear on the subject, or you could end up dead…much like you asked me before.” Martin started shaking his head, “What you just said doesn’t make sense given she knows about me. What were you told exactly?”

Casey took the time to review the minutes after Vivienne kissed her and made her. Fighting back the sensual sensation of Vivienne’s lips on hers, Casey started nodding. “Okay, she said I was her first and only ward, we’d make the rules as we went along. She suggested I move in, and made me her personal assistant.” Casey pointed to her phone. “Gave me access to everything she had in a matter of seconds really. Then said we’d watch other vampires in other cities.” Casey smiled at Martin, “Vivienne said it typically meant asking them to move on or taking them out.” She added, “The only ones she said we had to take out were the Flying Cannibals.”

“Alas, we have the answer.” Martin laughed and relaxed. “I am glad we are not at odds, Casey. I find myself enjoying your company.”

Seeing an odd look cross the concierge’s face, Casey tilted her head, “What’s up Marty? You have a strange look.”

“You..said before…that… you and Vivienne took out the Flying Cannibals?” Martin slowly asked as he put the puzzle together firmly.

“Yep. With part of the armory you packed in the truck ahead of us.” Casey sipped more water to clear her head, “Why are you asking that again?”

“She…she…oh god. She’s the Raven?” Martin’s face drained of its color.

Casey shrugged, “Yeah, so?”

Martin jumped up and nearly sprinted to the bar. He reached for a glass that was identical to the one Casey had used a few minutes before and shoved it full to the brim of perfect square ice cubes. Much like her fellow ward, Martin’s hands were shaking uncontrollably and while he poured the expensive bourbon. Not caring where the rich liquid went, Martin stopped as soon as the glass was full and downed the contents in one swift gulp. “No..N…no…That is… oh god…” Dropping the empty glass to the counter, Martin picked up the bottle and tipped it to his lips and drank until his stomach started to burn. “Fairy…tale…Oh…my…”

Casey spun herself around just in time to catch the mild-mannered man turn into a nervous wreck. “Fairy tale?” Casey’s eyes widened when she watched Martin start drinking from the bottle. “What about decorum?”

“Fuck decorum. You…you…holy shit…” He took another swig of bourbon. “The Raven… no, it can’t be… all this time and I didn’t…know? Oh, fuck-fuck-fuck…”

“I have only seen Vivienne do one thing that made me wonder what I had gotten into. Other than that one incident, she’d been an absolute dream to be around.” Casey drank from the new water bottle, thankful that her body had metabolized the bourbon so quickly.

“W-What-What did you s-s-s-see?” Martin stumbled back against the wall. “Do you know that the others have been looking for her?” He held his head as it started to swim, “Fuck… fuck, I drank way too…” Martin fell on the floor.

Casey frowned and looked at Martin, “Here I thought I was coming apart.” She smiled and tied her hair back quickly. “I would get you a drink too, but you have it all over the place.” Casey observed. “You want to know what I saw?” Casey dropped down beside the panic stricken man, “I watched her eyes go from those heavenly blue stars of perfection to maroon and full of hate. I thought I was looking into the pit of hell itself.” Casey shivered at the thought, “I knew why though, she saw Faye laying there.” She shrugged, “I probably would’ve done the same.”

Martin looked up from where he’d buried his face in his hands. “You don’t get it do you? She is the stuff of nightmares, she is the one that all leaders tell all their younglings and wards about. We are taught from the moment we are turned, beware ‘The Raven’...if you see her, try and run.” He stopped and reiterated, “Try…and…run. Not even run away. Try.” He grabbed the bottle again and tipped it up,

“Try…my ass…No one I know has survived an encounter since the Night of Tragic Woe. Anytime one of us goes missing, it's attributed to The Raven.” He looked over to Casey, “I don’t get it. She knows I am a thrall, er…ward as she calls it. Now I am asking that same question…why aren’t I dead?”

Casey looks up, obviously thinking, “Brian usually tells me that truth is stranger than fiction.” She shrugged and stood up, offering her hand. “Drink some water, it helps.” Rather than using her hand to help himself up, Martin pulled the unsuspecting ward down and into his arms.

A single heartbeat later, Casey felt Martin’s lips press firmly into her own. Amongst the anxiety of the day, Casey let the overwhelming rush of the moment take her and she kissed the handsome concierge back with the same hunger. Partly opening her mouth as a subtle invitation, Casey purred lightly when Martin’s honey-oak flavored tongue twisted and danced with her own. Dizzy with delight, Casey tossed her arms around Martin’s neck as he rolled the pair onto the floor and ended atop of her. Casey fluttered her eyes shut and gave into the rising heat within her body as Martin started kissing and nibbling on her neck. Martin’s hand made its way along Casey’s thigh and pushed her form fitting skirt to her hips. Letting the full heat of desire sweep her in the moment, Casey locked her legs around her partner drawing him close enough to feel him slowly grinding against her dampening pussy. Casey kept moaning and purring lightly as Martin trace-kissed his way down the front of her blouse, unbuttoning it with the same hand he’d just used on her thigh. Feeling her breast hit the open air and his tongue dance around her wide nipple, Casey’s mind finally overruled her body and she halted the passionate moment. “S–stop, Martin…” Casey whispered gently to the desperate man.

Martin opened his eyes and freed Casey’s nipple from his lips, “I…um…okay.” He groaned and rolled off of Casey.

“I am so sorry, Martin.” Casey offered and fixed her clothes quickly. “It… it wasn’t you.” She scooted back out of reach before standing up. “I wanted to…really…but…” She smiled and took a deep breath, “...Even though Brian and I are kinda fighting, I still love him.” Once more offering her hand to Martin, she pulled the drunk man to his feet. “If this were a few days ago…I wouldn’t have stopped.”

Martin stumbled over to his seat and fell into it, holding his head. “I am not upset, Miss Rivers.” He looked up, “At least not with you. I am more upset with myself.”

Standing in place until she was convinced that Martin wouldn’t retaliate, Casey gathered a bottle of water for the concierge and placed it in his cup holder. “Crap does seem to hit all at once, doesn’t it?”

“I would have to agree with that sentiment, Miss Rivers.” Martin moaned once more and pointed to a cabinet. “Would you be so kind as to hand me the Tylenol?”

“Why, you should be fine in a few minutes.” Casey half-laughed and handed him the small bottle.

“Some habits are hard to break.” Martin opened the water and took a couple tablets. “I am still in shock and fear that your…employer is none other than the Raven herself.” Martin tried to focus on Casey but still only saw a slight blur, “Ugh…My head…You don’t seem to understand how ingrained that fear is among us. It is like telling kids about the boogie man. To all of us outside of yourself, The Raven is akin to the Grim Reaper.”

“All I can tell you is that to me, she’s been wonderful. I don’t know anyone who’d take a risk on a drunk college student. Ironic that a vampire did.” Casey looked out of the window and saw the passing sign ‘Petersburg 15 miles’. “Looks like we are almost there.”

“Two things, If I may.” Martin’s speech had cleared up, “First, I again apologize for my actions. I was scared, drunk and you are gorgeous. It all mixed and I lost myself. I do hope we can remain colleagues and friends.” He offered a smile and added his next point, “Second, I have to tell my mistress who Vivienne is now. This is too important to keep secret. The others have been looking for her because of what we are facing in the city.”

“Marty, nothing to forgive.” Casey waved her hand, “I told you, normally you and I would be naked on that floor.” She chuckled, “I am different now.” Taking a sip of water, Casey inquired, “What are we facing, exactly?” Casey watched as Martin’s pupils dilated and his demeanor became solemn.

“The Ripped.” Martin answered forebodingly.

The small news van turned onto the long gravel path, lined with an ashen wood fence that outlined the land the distant farmhouse occupied. Wendy smiled as she watched the two story white fifties style house come to view. “A wrap around porch, with rocking chairs.” Wendy patted Brian on his thigh.

Brian looked at the marble white house with solid black shutters and a steep angled roof. “Looks like a normal house to me.” He pointed out of his window. “I don’t know that I have ever seen a real barn before.” He chuckled lightly.

Wendy slowed the van, and watched the few cows grazing on the grass poking up from the light snow that had fallen. “I love this place. It feels like time stopped in the fifties.” She pointed to the cows, “Wendy milks them herself. The farm is self-contained.”

Brian looked all around and then back to Wendy. “Does this place even have power? I don’t see any lines.”

“Underground. She’s trying to maintain the way it looked when she was younger.” Wendy added.

“Her being ‘The Darla’?” Brian raised his eyebrow.

“Yes. Most of us call her Loved One when we speak to her one on one.” Wendy pulled the van into a small circle and placed it in park. “She is obsessed with the fifties, I mean look at her car.” Wendy pointed to the garage near the barn that contained a powder blue and white Chevy Bel Air, its small round brake lights reflecting gently in the sunlight. “When you meet her, be gracious and think of southern hospitality.”

“Before my time. I will just be me, Wendy.” Brian unbuckled the seatbelt and opened the door. “I don’t care about any of that. I only care about saving Casey.”

“Then let me do the talking, unless she talks to you directly.” Wendy raised her eyebrow, “You and me, right?”

“Sure, let’s just get this over with. The more time we waste the worse things get for Casey.” Brian muttered and started walking to the front door of the farm house.

“Southern hospitality. Go to the back door.” Wendy closed her own door and led Brian to the rear of the house. Wendy was just about to knock on the door when she heard someone walking through the snow behind her coming from the barn. Quickly turning, Wendy smiled and bowed. “Good morning, Captain Mattson. I want to apologize for all that mess over the phone, I was…”

Captain Mattson waved his hand and interrupted Wendy, “...Forget it. Come with me into the barn, Captain Addison and I are planning an operation and since you are the only infiltrator left, We unfortunately need your assistance.” Raollet pulled his Cubs baseball hat off and turned it bill side down once more. “I didn’t want you on this operation, but The Darla thinks you will come in handy. So, get a move on.” He looked over at Brian and outstretched his hand. “Captain Raolett Mattson, Nice to finally meet you, Brian.”

Brian took a few steps toward the old farmer, “Sure. Nice to meet you as well.” Brian gripped Raolett’s hand as tight as he could.

“Easy there, muscles.” Raolett laughed, “No need to break my hand.” He winked. “Wrestling?”

“Football, I am a linebacker.” Brian returned the smile and freed Raolett from his grip. “Sorry. My dad always told me to meet someone with a firm handshake.”

Captain Mattson looked over to Wendy, “I like him already. Nice pickup, Richards.”

“Thank you, Sir.” Wendy acknowledged and turned to Brian. “I should be in there soon enough, I guess The Darla wants to talk to you alone. Remember, be polite.” She winked and started heading off towards the barn with Captain Mattson beside her.

“Just knock, Brian. The Darla is expecting you.” Raolett chuckled, “Expect tea. She loves tea.”

-Let’s get this over with.- Brian told himself and lightly knocked on the door. He heard light footsteps approaching the door and just before it opened, he got an unnatural chill travel the length of his spine and his birthmark to burn in his palm. -Is this a warning?- He pondered as the door opened.

“Mornin’ Brian.” Denise gave a wiry smile, “Please, come in.” She pointed at his shoes. “Wipe your feet if you don’t mind.” Denise advised as she turned and lightly bounced back into her kitchen, her dusty-blonde curly hair flowing lightly behind her as she walked.

“Sure.” Brian scraped his shoes and walked inside, closing the door behind him. “Um…” He started and was politely stopped.

Denise opened her cabinet and pulled out an orange and white box. “Peach. I can always tell a peach lover.”

“Y…yes, how did..you know..um..” Brian stammered for a moment.

“Oh, where are my manners?” Denise raised her eyebrow and walked over to Brian offering her hand. “Denise Crow, Very pleased to meet you.”

Unsure of what to do, Brian awkwardly took Denise’s hand and kissed the top of it. “B-Brian Ashburn.”

Denise smiled and patted the big man on the shoulder. “A handshake would have been enough, we aren’t in the 1800’s.” She pulled out a chair. “Have a seat, and let me get you that tea.”

“I-um..Captain Som-thing told me to expect tea.” Brian tried to shake off his embarrassment. “Wh-what do you want me to call you?”

Denise gathered a dainty cup and saucer, placing it in front of Brian and stared gently at the man with her dark and deep hazel eyes. “Whatever comes naturally to you. The others have gotten it in their heads to call me all sorts of things.” Pouring boiling water into the small cup, she dropped the teabag in the cup and laughed. “Captain Mattson is who you just met.” She paused and pointed to the table. “The sugar is there if you want it. If you want Splenda like the captain, I will get that for you.”

Growing frustrated with the possible posturing Brian balled up his fist and stopped himself short of hitting the table. “Sorry, Um…Denise, Darly-Darla or whoever you are…I was told you could help me get my girlfriend back from a vampire.” He chuckles, “Of which…I am not even sure exists.” He starts frantically poking at his birthmark. “I do know that since Wendy entered my life, it’s been one hell of a roller-coaster. So forgive me if I am light on manners or patience.”

Denise pointed to the chair and watched as Brian regained his composure and reluctantly sat down. “Thank you. The tea will help.” She walked back to her cabinet and pulled down a mason jar, then opened her refrigerator and poured herself ice tea before sitting across from

Brian. “I know exactly how you feel, Brian. I wanted to hit things when I first found out.” She took a sip of her tea, “I assure you, vampires are real.” She held up her palm and revealed her deep green glowing rune. “You are as we call it, Awakened.”

“Are you going to help me or not? Wendy said you were the answer to the problem.” Brian sighed and pushed the tea away from him.

“Direct and to the point. Okay. We can do that.” Denise pointed to the cup of tea and it slid back in front of Brian. “Drink the tea. Trust starts somewhere.”

“What?” Brian felt the hair on the back of his neck stand up. “I don’t want the damned tea, I want to help Casey.”

Denise shrugged and raised her eyebrow. “How do I trust you, if you don’t trust me? If I can’t get you to drink a simple cup of tea patiently and talk about what we can do for each other, what is the point?” She pointed to the back door. “Help yourself out, or drink the tea. Trust me.”

“You seem really insistent on the tea.” Brian stood up to walk out of the kitchen. “I barely trust Wendy and I don’t know you at all.”

“Yet you ate her food this morning on the way to the farm.” Denise smiled and pointed at the chair. “Sit. Down. Brian.” Denise sipped her own tea and changed tactics. “You are right, you don’t know me. You trusted Wendy enough to come all this way and enter into a stranger’s home. Yet, you will not have a cup of tea with the hostess.” She once more pointed to the chair. “I don’t think you really want to leave, but you are confused and hurt.” Denise reached into her apron and pulled out a small hair tie and put her long hair into a ponytail. “You have questions, and I will happily answer them, but there are rules. Call it a system of trades.”

Brian felt Denise’s words ripple along his spine, warning him once more. Shaking his head, he headed for the door. “You know, the last time I felt like this…I should have walked away. Wendy was a little creepy, but this is outright wrong. So, I am going to walk away.”

Denise waved her hand and the rune in her palm exploded in pine green light, creating an image of Casey on a floor kissing another man. “That is what your girlfriend is doing right now, Brian.”

Blinking and shaking his head wildly, Brian turned to face Denise. “You expect me to believe this? For all I know it is a projector somewhere, trying to manipulate me.”

“Just watch. Watch what you would be abandoning if you walk out that door.” Denise calmly added and sipped her tea once more.

Brian wanted to look away from the vision but it blocked the door he wanted to exit.

Clenching his jaw, he started shaking as the kissing intensified and the man started fondling Casey. Brian turned to confront Denise when he heard everything stop and Casey expressed his love for him. “I…is that true?”

“It happened, yes.” Denise waved her hand and the image disappeared in a cloud of smoke.

“The worst thing we can do is turn our back on love.” Denise pointed to the chair once more. “Have a seat, drink some tea and let’s see if we can save the two of you.”

The feeling of dread and uncertainty passed and Brian somehow knew that the vision was true. “Alright.” He walked over and sat in the chair and looked at the tea. “Still want me to drink it?”

“Trust me.” Denise drank more of her tea.

Grabbing the small cup in his big hand, Brian took a sip of the peach tea and smiled. “Okay, I admit this is good.”

“Thank you. I see you play things straight. No sugar, plain and simple guy.” Denise added and stood up and walked to her sink and gazed out of her blue and white lace curtains. “Now we have started to trust each other.” Denise kept watching the clouds float by. “Now we figure out what you can do Brian.”

“Don’t you have to look at me or something? Touch this ridiculous thing on my hand?” Brian took another sip of tea, feeling its herbal balance calm his nerves.

“You read too many stories.” Denise pointed outside at the clouds. “I am waiting for the Earth to tell me what to do.” She turned to look at the big man for a second, “I suspect that you have gotten many signals in your life.”

“What do you mean?” Brian asked and drained the teacup. “Now I wish I could have more.” He chuckled, “This is strange. I know I want to rage and be mad, but I also know that I shouldn’t.” Brian got a strange look on his face, “Did you drug me?”

“No, I provided the antidote.” Denise nodded and walked away from the window and sat down in her well-worn chair. “Wendy.” She pointed to the cupboard, “I didn’t see her do it, but somehow she had you…well drugged.”

“Then why do I want more of it?” Brian shook his head. “She never tampered with anything in front of me. All I have done is drink coffee with her and eat that burger this morning.”

Denise entwined her fingers and leaned on her oak table, “Do me a favor and look out of the window and tell me what you see. Just anything that jumps out at you.”

“This a test?” Brian inquired. “You never answered me about wanting more tea.”

“You don’t need anymore, just let it run its course.” Denise pleasantly replied and smiled, “No, Brian this isn’t a test. Please look out of the window and tell me what you see, or are you going to fight me on this as well?”

“You said a system of trades. So far I have done three and you have done zero.” the big man smiled and leaned back in the chair causing it to creak eerily. “Why do I want more of this tea, what was this tea and why am I looking out of the window. Please.”

Denise clapped then refilled her glass with tea, “A valid point.” She walked back to the window and pointed, “Let’s start with the window. Right now I see the same message in the clouds that I am fairly certain you do. I want you to tell me what you see and what it means to you.” The Loved one sat back down, “The tea was like I told you, peach.” She pointed at the small cup before entwining her fingers once more. “I knew Wendy did something to you, I could feel it. It is one thing to sense something, it is another to figure out what you are sensing. So, I started with drugs.” Taking a deep breath, Denise smiled and winked. “Wendy always has had a way with chemistry.”

“Then why do I…well crave more?” Brian asked as he looked out of the small kitchen window.

“It is just that, a craving. It will pass. I would think of it like eating a potato chip, most of the time you don’t want just one.” Denise batted her hazel eyes and giggled softly at her own joke.

Nodding once and looking back to Denise, Brian forgot what he was going to say and instead marveled at the cute smile that had crossed the woman’s face. “You…you have the most enchanting smile.” He caught himself saying, “Reminds me of Casey’s.”

“What a lovely compliment, Mister Ashburn.” Denise drank more of her tea, “I will make a southern gentleman out of you, yet.” She resumed her thin smile, “You were about to tell me what you saw in the clouds?”

“I..um…right.” Brian stammered and pointed to the window. “I see why the others call you Loved One.” Nibbling on his lip, Brian felt himself flush with his last compliment and tried to continue, “It is…um…strange, Loved One.” Hearing himself refer to Denise as she’d mentioned the others did, caught the big man off guard and felt his fingers tingle for a few seconds. “The other times I have seen messages, I have gone into a trance. I didn’t this time, that is what is weird.” Brian offered, ignoring the twinge in his fingers. “The runes are telling me two words. Geology and man.”

Denise raised her eyebrow, “There is more but you aren’t saying, Brian.” She pointed at the runes to the side of the main two he’d mentioned. “That one is the word walk, the other is path.” Denise wiggled her finger. “You were testing me, that isn’t trust.”

“Well, Loved One…” Brian mentioned sarcastically, “...You tried to charm me with that smile of yours and drug me with the tea I drank.” He stood up to walk outside, “I was told you could help me discover what is going on with me so I can help Casey.” Pausing for a quick breath as he reached for the doorknob, “I don’t care about any path, walking, geology or man.” He tapped on his big chest, “I care..no I love Casey and if I have to, I will figure it out myself.”

“Geomancer. Your abilities will all be tied around earth itself.” When Brian turned to look at her, Denise continued. “I didn’t drug you. I didn’t charm you.” She opened her palm and motioned for the door, “You can walk out right now. I told you, Wendy drugged you.” Denise smiled again, “People love my smile, what can I say about that?” She shrugged. “I didn’t make you call me Loved One, you did that on your own.”

“You had to do something, I felt my fingers tingle.”

“It wasn’t me. Captain Mattson felt the same thing earlier this morning. I was feeding my ducks, Brian.” Denise laughed. “I can see by the look on your face, that you believe that the tingle was a warning. Like you mentioned before.”

“Yep.” Brian affirmed.

“A big man such as yourself needs a mountain of food. Captain Mattson eats a bunch and he’s not half your size.” She pointed to the seat where Brian was. “A cold burger and fries made with peanuts isn’t a good meal.” She winked and stood up. “Iced tea now.” Picking up the small cup and saucer, Denise washed the two and gently put them aside to dry.

Brian sighed defeatedly, “I am rather hungry. So, tell me about this path.”

Denise walked over and patted Brian on his thick shoulders. “Finally.” She laughed and pulled together ham, turkey and cheese from her refrigerator. “The path is more a concept than anything concrete.” Denise opened her bread box and sliced off a couple pieces of homemade bread. “The fundamental idea is that we are the counter, or foil to vampires. My vision is to set up the surrounding area from Petersburg up to roughly Richmond as a vampire free zone.” She looked at Brian. “Mayo or mustard for your club?”

Brian raised his eyebrow and snickered, “Mayo please.”

Denise gave him a thumbs up and pulled a mason jar from her fridge as well. “I have certain rules in place to protect us from both prying eyes of the public and the vampires themselves. We can’t be certain who is and isn’t working for them at any given time.” Denise paused and pointed her bread knife at the big man. “They don’t always use charms to convince people, so there is nothing to detect.”

“Wendy said you really have no way of fighting them other than stakes, like we all know.” Brian sniffed the large mason jar of iced tea that had been placed where the cup had been. “Peach again? How?”

Denise winked. “You like peaches, so I added the flavor.” She pointed to her palm. “Easy. It is how I figure Wendy drugged you.” Denise looked at Brian, “Excuse me. A club needs tomatoes and lettuce, I will be right back.” She walked behind him, opened a door and went downstairs.

-Bide your time, play along.- Brian told himself and looked out of the window once more, then touched his lightly glowing palm. -Who is lying, who is telling the truth?- He wondered, when suddenly the green rune flared to life and started spreading different colors in the kitchen. The food glowed blue, the tea glowed white, the knife glowed red, the back door glowed purple and he saw himself in a brown hue. He shook his head and once more looked at his palm for an answer.

Denise emerged from the basement and looked around her kitchen. “Well. You are a natural.” She put the fresh vegetables on her counter and pulled another knife from her drawer. “You just inspected my home.”

“I..I didn’t mean to?” Brian suddenly felt like he’d invaded Denise’s privacy. “I was asking myself…”

“...Who is lying.” Denise put the knife down and started pointing at the items glowing. “I see it too, Brian. Let’s see. White means purity. Brown means stability and reliability.” She pointed to the big man. “I saw you when you walked through my door. Which is purple, meaning inspiration and wisdom.” She turned and kept building the sandwich, “Red is wrongfully accused of being evil or a warning, it means a great many things. Energy, sexual spirit, deep and intimate passion.”

Brian took a deep breath as the hue around Denise exploded in black. “...You…you are..”

“...Black, yes dear.” Denise said flatly and put down the knife. “Another color misunderstood.” She walked over to one of her cupboards and pulled out a small paper bag, handing it to Brian. “Sophistication, Protection, Authority.”

Brian kept looking at his rune hoping it would give him something that showed deception. Not even a tingle.- He blinked and looked down. “I was asked to be polite and think about the fifties from Wendy and be respectful.” Drinking some of his tea, Brian added, “I did the opposite. If you don’t mind, I will keep calling you Loved One. It is the least I can do for being …”

“...Stop, no need to apologize. Water under the bridge.” Denise handed the big man the sandwich she’d made and put everything away. “Wendy had a hold on you, Brian. After you eat, we will deal with that matter.” Denise calmly stated as she took off her apron and hung it neatly on a hook by the entrance of the kitchen. “Homemade potato chips in the bag.” Deny mentioned and sat down in her chair.Taking a huge bite of the club, Brian tasted every flavor as it mixed on his tongue. -Strange. Ham is ham, right? Why is this so..damned good?- He thought to himself as he swallowed the first bite and popped a potato chip in his mouth, gladly crunching it. “This is…why is this the best meal I have ever had?”

“Another compliment. I will take it.” Denise gave Brian her signature smile. “When love is involved, everything is better. I love making food, I love the people around me that have dedicated themselves to the path. I love the animals that gave their lives for the food you are eating.” Denise walked to the back door and picked up her galoshes. “Like you, I am in love with someone that I don’t understand fully. I guess that means we are linked that way.” She winked one of her dark socketed hazel eyes.

“Loved One?” Brian asked after another few bites of his sandwich disappeared in his stomach, “Captain Mattson mentioned he wanted Wendy for some mission, can you tell me something about that?”

“Brian.” Denise sat down and folded her arms on the table, leaning forward. “I am reluctant to tell you much unless you dedicate yourself to the path.” She looked around the room and circled her finger to indicate the kitchen, “While I have freed you from Wendy’s little trickery, it doesn’t mean I can fully trust you. Yet.” Denise’s hazel eyes started getting a mixture of lime green through the irises, “I can teach you. I can make you my only geomancer, but you have to become part of the Awakened.”

-System of trades. Free Casey from the vampire. Wendy lied. No warnings…well now.- Brian quietly thought to himself as he finished up his delicious meal. -Casey.- Brian peered up from his plate at the soft black aura that was pulsing around Denise. “Wendy offered much the same thing. She wanted us to be partners and no matter what you said, I should trust her.” Brian drank more of his tea quickly, “I do also want to know what these things I have seen mean.” Brian sighed, “Okay. What do I need to do?”

“Just shake my hand. Rune to Rune.” Denise raised her eyebrow, and offered her left hand with her old rune on it.

Looking at the green light emanating from his hand, Brian outstretched his hand and grasped Denise’s hand into his own. “Aren’t you going to chant something?” He offered comically, before he felt a rush of wind and electrical current flow into him. Instinctively looking at their connection, he witnessed the green energy flow between them and fade quickly.

Denise rolled her eyes and half-laughed. “You have seen too many movies, like I mentioned before.” She pulled on the rubber boots beside her, “You have two choices. You can come with me to my studio, or you can talk to Captain Joanh. He is in charge of our…” Denise chuckled, “Wizards. He teaches the basics.” She pointed to herself and stood up. “I can certainly do it as well, but you will have to be patient a bit longer.”

“I would prefer to stay with you, D..Lo..” Brian sighed. “Loved One.”

Denise opened the back door. “It has been a while since I had an apprentice. Let me think for a moment.” She watched Brian stand up, “Push in the chair please.”

Brian did as asked and pushed the chair in and followed Denise outside. “I don’t get it, you said you have awakened everyone…well except me. You also said that you taught Wendy.”

Denise stopped and spun gently in the snow, “I have it. Novitiate Ashburn.” Denise resumed her pace towards her barn. “Technically a novitiate is part of a religious order, but since I am teaching you an art through art…we can call it anything we want.” Denise winked and saw one of her captains emerge from her barn. “Ah, Captain Jonah after all. Good afternoon.”

Standing nearly as tall as Brian, Captain Jonah confidently walked to the pair. “Loved One.” He bowed and his long blonde hair fell over his pale face and red eyes. “The others are awaiting your arrival to go over the plan. I thought it best to…return the van back to the station.” He offered his bony and bone white hand to Brian, “Mister Ashburn. Captain Charles Jonah, I am glad The Darla convinced you to stay with us.”

“He is my Novitiate, Charles. I will be handling his art personally.” Denise looped her arm though Brian’s. “How did you plan to get back to the farm?”

“Are you suggesting that I don’t use magic?” The captain stood straight and pushed his hair back. “I guess I could get a taxi or something, though that isn’t fun.” Charles laughed. “You have to limit your use, Captain. Most of your body has lost pigmentation as it is, and we still haven’t discovered why. I am reluctant to let you use what is left of your melanin just on a fun ride back to the farm.” She patted Brian on the arm. “Perhaps you can follow him in my car, Brian?” Denise let go of Brian’s arm and dug the keys out of her pocket, handing him a rabbit’s foot keychain.

Reaching for the key and looking at the antique car, Brian smiled. “Oh, yeah.” He let himself forget about his worries and happily walked to the immaculate Chevy. “I will take great care of it.”

Captain Jonah whispered to Denise, “Almost too easy. Are you sure about this guy, Loved One?”

Denise nodded, “I am, Captain. He conjured auras without hesitation. We have our first geomancer. We knew they were possible, but no one has shown the affinity.” She paused for a second, “He is focused on the Rivers girl. Keep his mind occupied while you are gone captain and be wary. I haven’t assessed everything he knows yet.”

“Will do, Loved One.” The captain bowed and took his leave.

Denise waited until they two had gone from view before turning to face her large three-story red barn. It was a light whimper from her right that drew Denise’s attention. “Dusty?” She whistled and saw her tall yellow lab poke his head out from where the ducks nested within the bump-out she’d added so the birds could stay warm in the winter months. “What is it boy?” Denise asked and got a light bark in response. “Alright, I’m coming.” The big dog jumped and wagged his tail as she approached. “Have you been trying to play with the ducks again, boy?” She knelt down and scratched Dusty behind his ears and was licked feverishly as a response. Giggling lightly, Denise let the big lovable dog finish his greeting then followed him to one of her ducks nursing a wing. “Good boy, Dusty.” The bright eyed dog gave a quick howl and ran out and back into the yard. “Well now, let’s get you to Heather and see what is wrong with your wing.” Denise looked down as a brown spotted duck waddled up to her. “Yes, you can come too, missy.” Scoping both of her birds under her arms, Denise walked to the rear of the barn with Dusty and the birds in tow. “Dusty, go get Raollet to open the door for me.” Laughing quietly to herself as the big dog ran through his panel door, Denise smiled as her Captain unlatched the door and greeted her.

“Loved One.” Raollet winked. “I love your messenger.”

Stepping inside her barn and art studio, Denise nodded and carried the two ducks over to the long brown haired medic, Captain Heather Addison. “I think the little guy here has a broken wing. Can you take a quick look for me please?”

Heather stopped looking at the little table with paper all over it, “Loved One.” She smiled and took the green headed bird from Denise. “Who is this lovely brown lady with you?” She chuckled.

“She wouldn’t let me take him without coming along.” She winked at the medic, “I am sure it was just Dusty trying to play with them again.” The dog heard his name and barked from the other side of the barn.

Captain Addison smiled for another brief moment and then got a serious look within her brown eyes. “Wendy.” She whispered. “Captain Mattson is having a difficult time explaining the plan, she keeps…interrupting him.” She raised one long eyebrow. “I have everything you asked for on the second floor beside your canvases.”

Denise nodded and took off her rubber boots, sliding on a pair of old sneakers with paint all over them. “We settle all debts now.” The Darla’s voice became soft and dangerous. “I want you three and Wendy upstairs, Now. Captain.” Denise walked up the creaky wooden stairs to her enclosed art studio. She took a few moments to gather three easels, arranging them in a semi circle around a small cart with pencils, paint, paint brushes, various inks, quills and charcoal. Finally, Denise put her well used stool beside a dark cherry wood chair outlined with maroon cushions and matching armrests.

Wendy bounced her way up the stairs and to the little stage where she saw Denise sitting on her stool. Taking the moment to bow, Wendy smiled. “Good Afternoon, Loved One.” Wendy saw Denise pat the chair beside her and headed over. “Where’s Brian?” The red-head inquired.

“Have a seat, Wendy.” The Darla calmly stated and pressed a button on her iPhone, starting a deep tuned song. “Don’t worry about Brian.”

“...I promised him that…” Wendy started to say and was interrupted by The Darla.

“...I said don’t worry about Brian.” The Darla once more mentioned and turned her dark set eyes to face her defiant infiltrator. The Darla nodded to her three captains and they spread out around the chair Wendy occupied. The Darla waited until the melancholy song, Tomorrow Wendy by Concrete Blonde completed its first set of lyrics.

“It is complete now

two ends of time are neatly tied,

A one way street,

She's walking to the end of the line,

And there she meets,

Faces she sees in her heart and mind,

They say,

Good try,

Tomorrow Wendy is going to die…

Tomorrow Wendy is going to die...”

“You have to answer for what you’ve done, Wendy.” The Darla spoke deeply and authoritatively.

The music and lyrics echoed in Wendy’s ears and she immediately started shaking. “You… you s-said..I was f-forgiven…” Wendy begged as tears scrolled down her cheeks. “LoLoved…One..”

The Darla nodded slowly and patted Wendy’s hand, then looked to Captain Mattson. “Please make the girl a Manhattan. I think she needs a drink.” The Darla watched as the gruff man walked over to the cart and reached under, pulling out a martini glass, bourbon and a dark wine. “A dark red-brown drink for my favorite red-head.” Entwining her fingers, The Darla hummed and tilted her head to the side, and studied Wendy’s profile. She held up her fingers in a little box shape. “You are a work of art…in progress, Wendy.”

Watching as Raollet finished making the drink, Wendy tried to hold steady as he placed the martini glass in her hand. Wendy didn’t bother to sip the potent drink and took the rich liquors down in one swallow. “I…I did..what you told me to do, Loved, One.” Wendy held up the glass to Raolett.

The Darla stood up and pulled her stool to the center of the three easels she’d set up earlier, and picked up a thick piece of charcoal. “Oh, my dear…” The Darla raised her hand to the first canvas. -scribble..scribble…swipe…smear…- “...I have forgiven you.” The Darla peeked at Wendy between her first and second easel and wiggled her black fingers. “If you recall, I also said do not expect mercy again.” The Darla resumed her work. -scratch… scribble…- The Darla blew lightly on the charcoal, sending a small black cloud of dust into the air where it seemed to hang ominously.

Wendy quickly turned and looked at the commando leader, Captain Angelie Kino. “...L-Legive me a chance, Kino. W-we always got along.” Wendy begged the Greek woman.

Captain Kino shook her head and walked over to a wall and pulled five leather straps from where they hung on the wall. “No. I can’t use you Wendy.” She headed back in Wendy’s direction, the buckles clanking lightly. “This isn’t my call.”

-scratch…blow…smear…scribble- The Darla whistled lightly and kept working with the charcoal for a few more strokes and once again looked at the red-head. “I am not going to kill you, Wendy.” She pointed to her phone where the song had been looping its play. “The song isn’t about killing someone.” The Darla spun the first easel around, displaying its contents to Wendy. “It is talking about a girl named Wendy that had AIDS.” The Darla winked. “It’s about the disease killing her, dear.” The Darla looked at Wendy and then back to the picture. “How do you like it? I think I captured you just as you are now.” The Darla’s tone darkened and her hazel eyes started glowing light around the edges of her sunken sockets. “Diseased.” The Darla lifted her coal coated index finger. -Scrawl…swipe.- “There we go.” The Darla smiled. “This one is called, Before.”

Wendy’s heart pounded in her chest wildly and she jumped from the chair and tried to run, knocking over the black image of herself that had just been completed. Captain Kino moved with the same pace that Wendy did and managed to grab a handful of the reporter's bright red locks and yanked. Wendy lost her footing and fell backwards landing on the wooden floor with a heavy thud. A small plume of dirt scattered in the air and mixed with the settling black dust of the charcoal. “Nooooo….nooo….please….” Wendy screamed as she was dragged and unceremoniously slammed back into the heavy chair. Wendy felt her shoulders pinned against the back of the cherry wood and saw that the hands holding her firm belonged to Captain Mattson. “I…am no..not…diseased…please…I’ll do anything.”

The Darla picked up ‘Before’ and picked up the overturned easel. “Dusty, come here boy!” She called for her hefty yellow short furred dog. Hearing a quick ‘arf’ in acknowledgement The Darla turned as the bright-eyed dog darted up the stairs and nuzzled the artist by her leg.

“Good booooy…” Patting Dusty on the head The Darla calmly spoke to her dog. “Dusty, Wendy is trying to hurt herself. We don’t want that, do we boy?” The dog lightly barked and shook his head, making his ears flop. “Lay down right there and make sure she doesn’t try to run again. Can my big boy do that?” She knelt down and scrubbed Dusty’s ears tenderly. Dusty spun in a circle once and licked his owner on the cheek before laying down in front of Wendy, glaring at her.

Wendy moved her foot and got a growl from the dog staring at her in response. “Lo-Lo…” Wendy stopped talking as she felt one of her hands pressed to the arm of the chair. -Clink… clatter..- Wendy tried to pull her arm free as she felt the first leather strap get pulled tightly around her forearm.

The Darla replaced her first canvas where it had been for Wendy to see and resumed her sitting on her stool. “I think ink will capture you very nicely, Wendy.” The Darla commented as she listened to the sound of leather and metal clamping down on Wendy’s opposite arm. “Wendy, dear. You have a sickness.” The Darla waved her hand and pulled a light green image of Wendy crawling on the floor teasing Nick Gemelli with the epipen. “The past is at my fingertips, Wendy. You could have gotten the information from the officer without killing him.” She produced a picture of Gemelli’s notebook. “See, Dear? He’d cleared you as a suspect.” -Dip…dip..clink..clink…- The Darla started scrawling on the second canvas.

Wendy started screaming and flung her legs in the vain attempt to stop what was happening. Dusty jumped from his guarded position and snapped at Wendy’s ankles a couple times and curled his maw up growling. Darting her brown eyes at the dog, Wendy gave up and started crying with heavy sobs that wracked her chest. “I-I…did…no…choice…” Wendy tried to breathe and talk at the same time. “Plea…” Wendy pleaded once more, saliva running over her chin. -clink…tink…- Wendy felt her ankle become glued to the foot of the chair with the third buckle.

-Dip..dip..- The Darla sensed a cold chill emanating from the chair and watched as a thick black cloud started to form around Wendy. Putting her quill into the red ink well she’d been using, The Darla waved her green lit hand in a small arc and resumed her artwork. “What do you think of ‘Before’? I think the way I detailed your profile with the shades of black by your eyes, then lightened it by your lovely curly hair, does you justice.” The Darla pointed the red tipped quill at Wendy. “The haze around your visage is showing the disease that has gripped you.” -Dot…dot…scribble…- The Darla worked diligently on her second piece as the sound of the fourth buckle latched on to Wendy’s leg. “I was right, Wendy. Ink is the way to go for this piece. I think I will name this one ‘During’.” The Darla holds up her finger and winks to her captive. “You can only see it after I am done.”

“Loved One.” Captain Addison politely walked over to The Darla. “Would you allow me to buckle the last strap?”

“Are you sure you want to do that, Heather?” The Darla replied softly and pointed to her canvas. “I only asked you here for what is coming next, my dear.”

“I loved Derek.” Captain Addison’s eyes welled up with tears. “She caused…” She cleared her throat, “..Infiltrator Hamilton to get killed.”

The Darla set her quill back on the small cart and walked over to give Heather a warm hug. “I know you did.” The Darla pulled out a monogrammed handkerchief with the letters D.C. on it and dabbed at her captain’s eyes. “We are creating art through love, Heather.” The Darla patted Heather’s hand. “I think you are delving into vengeance right now. Captain Mattson and Captain Kino are not taking pleasure in doing this to Wendy.” When a slight chuckle and cough came from the other side of the room, The Darla glared over to her other captains. “Secure the last one Captain Mattson, then you two head downstairs. Captain Addison will be with me.”

Wendy whimpered lightly as the final strap was secured to her forehead and buckled so tightly that she felt the skin around it slightly tear. “Whatever I am doing, I’ll stop. Please…I brought you Brian..I..” Wendy watched as Captain Mattson and Captain Kino walked downstairs. Blood slowly drained the sides of her eyes and another wave of fear coursed through the red-head making her wiggle pointlessly in the chair.

“Dusty.” The Darla called to her large best friend, who stood up and nuzzled her thigh. “Good boy.” She smiled lovingly at the dog, “Go make sure that Raollet is safe and sound with Angelie. Wendy is safe now.” Panting with delight, Dusty bolted downstairs and started barking playfully with the other two captains. “See, Wendy? Love.” The Darla stopped speaking and dipped her quill into a couple inks and made a light shade of pink. “Sometimes tough love is the best love we can offer.” She watched as Captain Addison walked behind Wendy and gathered a small bag and put it on another small paint cart. “I am nearly done with this piece of art as well, Wendy. I think you will love it.” The Darla winked and cleaned off the quill and combined a couple more inks to create brown. “This will be a little unusual, this piece is more of a cutaway. Almost biological.” The Darla looked at Heather, “Come over and see what you think Captain Addison. I am going for art, not a textbook.”

Heather locked the cart in front of Wendy and walked around where The Darla was standing. “Art is all in the eyes of who’s looking at it, Right Loved One?” Heather asked and opened her bag, and pulled free a small syringe and started filling it with a dark liquid through its rubber stopper. “I think it needs something to make it more vibrant, make it more personal? Right now, that is textbook, Loved One.” She looked at Wendy. “This will relax you. Even if you don’t deserve it.” Captain Addison paused, “You sit there crying, because you are scared of dying.” Heather walked over to Wendy’s shoulder and rolled up the sleeve and stopped just before injecting her. “I loved him, Wendy.” Captain Addison dug out a picture of the couple and shook her head. “No, I can see it in your eyes. You are crying, but you don’t care.” Captain Addison plunged the picture back in her pocket, “You deserve this.” She turned to The Darla, “Loved One, I see the disease you are referring to.” Heather raised her runed hand and waved it over Wendy’s trapped form. “All I see is a gray outline. It’s like you are as dead as the ones we hunt.”

The Darla turned up the volume so Wendy could still hear the lyrics of Tomorrow Wendy,

“Very good, Heather. You gave me a great idea. Gray matter.” -Tink…tink..swish…scribble..-“Careful with that, she did have the drink a few minutes ago.” The Darla stopped working and pointed the pen she was holding at Captain Addison. “I do not want her dead, Captain.”

“Only God says jump

But I set the time

'cause if he ever saw it

It was through these eyes of mine

And if he ever suffered

It was me who did his crying

Yeah goodbye, Tomorrow Wendy is going to die.”

The Darla watched as her cleric lowered the dose in the needle. “A little tough love will fix things like this, Wendy.” She conjured up another image of Wendy back in Nick’s home and played the scene until all three heard Wendy’s past proclamation, ‘I prefer the term curious psychotic.’

Wendy watched her past self once more, “I…I…he…” She sputtered hopelessly and strained against her restraints. “I…c-can..ch-ch-change, please..Loved…One.”

The Darla stopped the music from another loop and turned the easel around to reveal the inked drawing. “Of that, I can guarantee.” Her light hazel eyes gleamed wickedly at Wendy. The Darla nodded to Captain Addison and the cleric plunged the needle into Wendy’s arm and depressed the plunger. “Tough Love, Wendy.” Using her quill as a pointer, The Darla explained the picture on the canvas. “As you can see, this is a cut-away. One side has your nose and nasal canal up to the front part of your brain.” The Darla mimicked what Wendy had done to Nick and tapped her forehead with the fountain-pen. “This is the best part, Wendy. Pay close attention.” The Darla pointed to the section of the canvas showing a human brain in vibrant pink with the frontal lobe in gray. “You know my fascination with the fifties, dear.” The Darla slid her stool back beside Wendy, “See that gray matter? That is what we will be taking care of. You will be receiving a lobotomy.” The Darla slowly turned to see the look of shock and horror creep over Wendy’s features. “See how much I love you, dear? I am going to have Captain Addison remove the disease and set you free to love everyone again.” Denise touched the inside edge of Wendy’s eye. “You know, this was a very common practice and perfected in the…” The Darla stretched her lips into her subtle and sinister smile.

“...Fifties.”

Wendy’s normally devilish brown eyes darted hopelessly between Captain Addison and The Darla. Feeling the numbness of the injection starting to take effect, Wendy tried to focus on one final spell. -Burn her.- The last vestiges of her little voice echoed. She took a hesitant breath and outstretched her fingers. The infiltrator pushed all of her hate and disgust she’d held back for months and poured it into the spell. Twisting her wrist and curling her fingers up to form a wicked cup, Wendy’s rune glowed a solid and bright green for a split second before fire arced from her fingers, headed directly for The Darla.

Watching as her fountain-pen melted from the fire that had been cast directly at her, The Darla pointed at Wendy’s wrists. “I would have tried to burn the leather, Dear.” As fire danced and licked over her small frame harmlessly, The Darla pressed her palm into Wendy’s and transferred the copy of the letter that was still imprinted on the redhead's hand. “Please proceed, Captain Addison.” The Darla set the easel with the inked graphic beside her first. “Before, During…Now we start on After.” The Darla picked up her stool and carried it in front of the remaining easel. “Wendy, Dear. I will show you this after Heather has finished her duty, you will appreciate it much better with a cleared…head.”

Captain Addison bowed, “Yes, Loved One.” Heather turned and retrieved a stainless steel hammer and an orbitoclast from her bag, cleaning them both with alcohol. Opening her palm and revealing an egg white rune that matched the others, Heather looked back to The Darla once more. “May Gaia guide these instruments of love so that our sister might be free of her disease.”

“Gaia is with you, Heather.” The Darla looked at her canvas. -Dab..dab…swish…dab..dab-. The Darla hummed softly to herself as the paint colors started covering the canvas. “Wendy, you are going to be my second best piece of art. A living display of my love and support.” Swish..swish…poke.-

Wendy felt the cold steel press against her tear duct and tried to turn her head. “No…no… don’t do…”

-Ti..ii…nnnn….gggg-

Wendy screamed and howled in both agony and terror as the steel needle penetrated into the bone of her eye socket.

-Ti...ii…nnn…ggg…crack-

Wendy heard and felt the bone crunch. “St…stop…ple…..” Wendy screamed through her pain and suffering.

Captain Addison put the hammer back on her medical cart, “I am five centimeters in, Loved One.” Heather grasped the metal handle and took one more look at The Darla.

-Dab…swish…smear…poke..poke..twist.- The Darla tilted her head and sat back to look at the painting. “With my blessing, Captain Addison. Twist with love.” The Darla blotted the painting with blues and yellows, a thin trail of red and even a rancid muddy brown.

Wendy screamed and tried to wiggle for a few more seconds and suddenly everything she was thinking seemed to erase.

Captain Addison pulled the rod free and unbuckled Wendy’s head from the chair, and wrapped the stoic woman’s head in a bandage. Heather wiped drool from Wendy’s chin and removed the restraints from her other limbs. Wendy fell forward into the medic’s arms. “Loved One, she will need to recover. Only time will tell if the disease is clear.”

The Darla turned the final easel and displayed the painting, “Wendy. This is you now.” Denise gently lifted Wendy’s head to so it was in the direction of the painting. “See, that is you. With birdseed, feeding the ducks by the pond.” Denise stroked the long curly red hair. “You are no longer gray, you are vibrant now…My love cured you.” Denise studied Wendy for a moment and saw visible brown eye lazily tracking her movements. “You did well, Heather. Take her to the third floor and let her recover in her new room.” She cleaned her brushes and set them down. “Don’t forget her…stage art.”