Isabella was nervous about seeing Bertrand again after so many years. She hoped he would forgive her for trying to drive him mad, but was prepared for the worst.
She knocked on Bertrand’s chamber door, not knowing what to expect. The servant who opened the door was Ophelia. She was surprised to see her former mistress.
“Lady Isabella, what are you doing here?” she asked.
Isabella immediately was stern with her, even if Ophelia was no longer her servant. “Since when do you question what I’m doing, or where I go?” Isabella firmly asked.
“Forgive me, my lady,” Ophelia said as she lowered her eyes. “It’s been several years since you were here. I’m just surprised to see you.”
“Very well, Ophelia. I’m here to see Master Bertrand. Is he here?”
“Yes, he is. I’ll retrieve him for you.”
Bertrand walked into the sitting room moments later. Isabella had forgotten what Bertrand looked like, and how much his looks affected her. Boris was handsome, but Bertrand was borderline beautiful, she remembered this fact as their eyes met.
Bertrand Bloodworth. Wild and untamed. Very tall with broad shoulders and cream-colored skin. He had slanted brown eyes that resembled two bronze coins. Isabella was always attracted to his luxurious, wavy, black hair.
It was obvious Bertrand was not happy to see her. Even though Isabella still was a stunning woman, Bertrand looked right past her beauty. It was her beauty got him into trouble with her the first time. He had to continue to remember this fact so he wouldn’t fall under her spell again. This time he saw her for what he knew her to be: a conniving, greedy woman who would do anything to gain power.
“What do you want Isabella?” he questioned, not hiding his displeasure about seeing her again. “I thought you were on baby duty. Bartholomew is still your mate, is he not? Or did you finally succeed on driving one of your mates totally mad?”
“I’m a changed woman Bertrand,” Isabella said quietly.
“I seriously doubt it. I assume you’re still using your powers on anyone you wish. I count myself as one of the lucky ones. The one who got away. It’s a good thing you weren’t able to accomplish what you set out to do. Who knows where the clan would be right now.”
Isabella stood in silence thinking about her past actions, and was generally sorry for what she tried to do to Bertrand. “Bertrand, I apologize for what I did to you. I didn’t come here to try to make up for lost time. I’m here about Boris.”
Bertrand didn’t let up. “What about him?” Bertrand asked as he began walking about the room. “Are the two of you getting back together? If so, I’ll do everything within my power to keep it from happening. You aren’t fooling anyone with this changed woman shit,” he said as he stopped pacing and stared Isabella directly in the eyes. “You weren’t good for me, and you certainly aren’t-”
Isabella interrupted. “Bertrand, I’m here because Boris has been hurt.”
“Did you do this to him?” Bertrand asked as he started to move about the room again. “He was always weak as far as you were concerned.”
“No,” Isabella said following Bertrand with her eyes. “Boris killed one of our servants, and Bartholomew taught him a lesson.”
Bertrand’s attitude changed as his thoughts turned to his brother. He was suddenly very curious. He once again stopped moving about and gazed at Isabella. “Taught him a lesson?”
Isabella nodded. “When I found him, he was near death.”
Bertrand stood speechless. He couldn’t understand how Bartholomew could have done this. Although Bertrand had not spoken to Boris in many years, they still were brothers. “How is he?” Bertrand asked.
“Healing,” Isabella answered softly.
“Are you certain Bartholomew did this?”
“I saw Bartholomew right after he almost beat Boris to death. He was covered from head to toe in Boris’ blood.”
“That’s impossible Isabella,” Bertrand said as he shook his head. “There’s no way a vampire less than 500 years old could have almost killed my brother. How old is Bartholomew anyway? If my math is correct, he should only be 130 years old.”
“That’s right. But Boris and Alec seem to think he’s transformed into a Daywalker.”
Bertrand’s anger had now turned to concern. Concern for his brother and his brother’s clan. “The Clan of the Night is the only clan in the coven who can do this. As you well know, it’s a part of our genetic make up. Do you know who it was that made him?”
“Bartholomew told me it was a young vampire by the name of Constantine.”
“There once was a Constantine in our clan. But he has been dead-”
“For one hundred years,” Isabella jumped in. “Yes, it’s possible it’s the same vampire.”
Bertrand suddenly forgot he was supposed to be angry with Isabella. That was the vow that he made to himself. However sitting there in the wake of her beauty, remembering her intelligence, he knew he couldn’t be alone with her anymore, no matter what the situation. “Isabella, I would like to hear more about what’s going on at the Baby Farm. But first, there’s someone I would like you to meet. Will you excuse me for a moment?”
“Certainly,” Isabella said, not sure who she was about to meet.
Bertrand returned shortly with a woman whose beauty rivaled Isabella’s own.
“Isabella, I would like you to meet Jayde Rivera,” Bertrand said with a smile. “She’s my mate.”
Isabella glared at Jayde and said, “It’s nice to meet you, Lady Jayde.”
Jayde was very possessive of Bertrand, and rightfully so. Many women in the coven wanted to be with him because he was so beautiful.
She wasted no time letting Isabella know Bertrand was off limits to her and anyone else. “I’ve heard many ugly stories about you, Lady Isabella,” she said as she held Bertrand tightly to her side. “Why are you here?”
“I’ve come to tell Bertrand about what’s happened to his brother, and maybe get some help.”
“Jayde, my dear,” Bertrand started, “I told Isabella I wanted to hear more about what’s going on, and I wanted you to hear it as well. Please continue, Isabella,” Bertrand said as he sat down.
Isabella went on to tell them what had been going on. Bertrand was both surprised and disappointed about what he was hearing.
“Master Alec has already gone to the elders, and they told him no,” Isabella said at the end of her tale.
“Well, if they have told him no, what makes you think I can do anything to help?” Bertrand asked.
“I don’t know. I just don’t want anything else to happen to any more of my staff.”
“Do you not know how to kill him? Since you’re his mate, you should be the only one within your clan that does.”
“I do know how, but I’m afraid of him.”
Bertrand laughed aloud and said, “You? The dragon lady? Afraid of someone? Not long ago you were willing to kill to get what you wanted.”
“Don’t make fun of me, Bertrand. I told you I’m not the same person I was. One hundred years of exile took care of that.”
“Forgive me, Isabella. I only have memories of the past. I don’t know this new and improved you. But, I’m sorry. If the elders won’t help, I can’t either. If I stepped in, it would be seen as an act of war.”
Isabella sighed. “Well, I guess I’ll be going. I just thought you should know about your brother.” Isabella lowered her eyes and said, “Goodbye Bertrand, Lady Jayde,” and walked out the door.
Jayde looked at Bertrand after Isabella left the room and said, “Bertrand dear, she’s quite stunning.”
“Yes, she is,” Bertrand said without hesitation.
“This is the same Isabella who was your mate?”
“Yes.”
“She doesn’t seem anything like the woman you described. I think you should help her.”
“You know as well as I do, Hannibal will have my head.”
“I wonder. How many others know of what’s going on?” Jayde asked.
“We already know the elders know. Since Brie is here, I can assume Xander also knows.”
“Think about it, Bertrand. Our clan is the Clan of the Night, shadow walkers. Why don’t you just send someone out to the farm to investigate? No one will have to know.”
“You’ll know because you’ve suggested it.” Bertrand shook his head. “No Jayde, I’m going to stay out of this. If the elders offered no help, there has to be a perfectly good reason why.”
By the time Isabella returned to the Thorn chambers, Brie and Selena also returned, and were talking with Alec. When Isabella walked in, Alec looked up in hopeful anticipation, but Isabella only shook her head.
“Well it looks like it’s up to us,” Alec said. “Brie, I need you to have someone pack our clothes for us. If we leave now, we can be home by tomorrow. In the meantime, we need to talk about what the plan is going to be when we do return.
“So, come ladies, let’s go to the atrium, and talk about this. If we don’t finish working out our plan within the next few minutes, we’ll continue while we’re on the way home. Brie, please go. Hurry.”
Alec, Isabella, and Selena went to the atrium. Alec’s mind was moving a mile a minute. He didn’t think he would have to plan so far ahead so soon. He walked slowly back and forth with his head low, thinking. When he had somewhat of an idea, he directed his first question toward Isabella.
“What’s his weakness?” Alec asked.
“It’s black wood.”
“I’ve never heard of it.”
“Have you ever heard of black walnuts?”
“Yes.”
“Black walnuts come from the black wood tree.”
“Where might we find these trees?”
“Master Darth happens to own a wood plantation with several of these trees.”
“Is it close to home?”
“The plantation is about fifty miles from the castle.”
“Perfect. Selena, it will be your job to get this for us. We won’t need much. Only enough to make short pikes for all of us.”
“Once I get this wood, where will I store it?” Selena asked.
“In the catacombs,” Alec answered.
“Right.”
“Okay, now Lady Isabella, it will be your job to keep an eye on him.”
“But I’m not a Daywalker. How am I to do this when I sleep?” Isabella questioned.
“Is there a servant you can trust to be honest with you?”
“Yes, what do I tell her?”
“You don’t have to explain anything to her. You’re the master’s mate. She’s supposed to do what you tell her to do.”
Brie stepped into the atrium and said, “Alec, our things will be ready and in the carriage shortly.”
“Good,” Alec said as he stopped pacing. “Brie, your role in all of this is simple. Protect the children at any cost.”
She smiled and said, “I think I can do that.”
“I’ll go into more detail in the carriage. If there’s anyone you want to say goodbye to, do it now. I’ll meet you all at the carriage in twenty minutes.”
Everyone said goodbye to their family and friends, and before they knew it, they were on their way back to the place they called home.
When they arrived the following evening, Boris met the carriage in the courtyard. He didn’t bother waiting for the driver to open the door. He opened it himself. Alec was the first to get out.
“It’s good to see you Boris. How are you?” Alec asked, as he held his hand out for Isabella.
“Much better. I just came to warn you. Master Bartholomew is angry.”
“About what?”
“Who knows?”
“Has he hurt anyone else?”
“No.”
As Isabella exited the carriage she said, “Master Boris, I thought I told you to stay in the bed until my return.”
Boris smiled and said, “I did, my lady. I heard the carriage coming so I got out of the bed.”
Isabella looked at Alec and said, “I’ll go to him.”
“My lady, he’s dangerous,” Alec said.
“Alec, I don’t believe he will hurt me.”
“I’ll go with you,” Alec said, not trusting Bartholomew wouldn’t hurt her. He then turned his attention to other things. “Boris, do we have any children in the nursery?”
“Two.”
“Brie, go and relieve Emma. I expect she’ll be happy to see you. Selena, get your hunting team together and get going.”
“Yes, my lord,” Selena said before hugging Boris and kissing him on the cheek.
“Boris, here’s the key to my room. Go there and wait for me,” Alec commanded. “I’ll be there to get you up to speed when I’m sure Lady Isabella is safe.”
“I’ll be waiting,” Boris said as he walked away.
When Boris was out of earshot, Alec revealed a vital piece of information to ensure Isabella’s loyalty.
“Mistress there’s something I must tell you,” Alec started. “It’s not going to make you happy, but you have to know.”
“What is it?” Isabella asked out of curiosity.
“Master Bartholomew wants Brie for his mate.”
“Alec Thorn, you lie!” She exclaimed quietly yet firmly.
“No, not a lie. He told me that he’s clan leader, and he can choose any woman he wants for his mate. He also told me he would allow me to take over for him totally, if I let Brie be his mate. Of course I’m not going to let him have Brie, but I do plan on taking over.”
“What did you tell him?”
“I asked him to give me some time to think about it. My time is now up. I expect he will ask for my decision as soon as he sees me.”
“What will you say?”
“I’ll stall until we’re ready to execute our plan. For now, I plan on telling him exactly what he wants to hear.”
Isabella was speechless. She also had a piece of information she desired to share. She wanted so badly to tell Alec that Bartholomew was his father. When she thought of the consequences, however, she rejected her own idea.
“Alec, thank you for telling me this. I wasn’t aware he was going to throw me away,” she said instead. “I don’t understand why he would do that to me. I’ve been loyal to him, even through his cheating. Well, now that you’ve opened my eyes, you can call me Isabella when we’re not in mixed company. I see no point in being so formal when one is amongst friends.”
“Thank you, Isabella. Let’s go see the master now, shall we?”
Isabella opened the door to the chamber she shared with Bartholomew, and called to him. “Bartholomew I’ve returned!” she announced. There was silence. Isabella called him again. “Darling I’m home!”
Bartholomew walked into the sitting room. He was surprised to see Alec standing there.
“Master Alec, you’ve also returned,” he said, his skepticism growing with each breath he took.
“Yes, my lord,” Alec said.
“Good. As you know, we have business to discuss.” Bartholomew then kissed Isabella on the cheek and said, “I didn’t expect to see you so soon my dear.”
“Since my sister wasn’t expecting me, she was not at home. I was told she and her mate was gone on a trip, and weren’t expected back for a month.”
“I see. So, how is it that you and Master Alec have arrived at the same time?” Bartholomew questioned.
Isabella smiled. “Coincidence darling. We met at the same junction and simply caught the same carriage home.”
Bartholomew dismissed his curiosity quickly and sternly said, “Selena has run off.”
Isabella acted as if she were surprised and asked, “How can you be so sure?”
“She was supposed to show up for her shift, and she has not.”
“That’s not like her. Perhaps she has gone to gather donors.”
“Possibly.”
“I suppose you’ve taken action to ensure her shift is covered?”
“Isabella, do you think me irresponsible?” Bartholomew asked in an irritated tone. “Of course I did.”
“No darling, you’re not irresponsible,” Isabella reassured him. “I can tell you’re a bit upset. Is this what’s making you so grumpy?”
Bartholomew walked up to Isabella, grabbed her by the waist, and pulled her close to him. “That and the fact I had to sleep alone.”
Bartholomew gave Isabella a deep passionate kiss. He was ready to have her, but Alec was in the way. He had some important things to discuss with Alec, so his planned intimacy with his mate would have to wait.
“It’s good to have you home my dear. I did miss you while you were gone. Could you please wait in our bed chamber? I have things I want to discuss with Master Alec.”
“Certainly darling,” Isabella said, unsure if Bartholomew believed her story about her and Alec arriving home at the same time.
Isabella glanced at Alec. The look said she would be okay. Alec acknowledged this by saying, “Good night, my lady.”
“Good night, Alec.”
Bartholomew waited until she was out of the room before speaking to Alec.
“Have you had a chance to discuss things with Brie?” Bartholomew asked.
“I have.”
“What’s your answer?”
“I don’t have an answer for you, my lord,” Alec said plainly.
Bartholomew was confused. “Why not? I thought you were going to tell her.”
“I did tell her. I’ve told you the truth, my lord. She now has to think upon it. I told her I would give her some time.”
“Alec, do you not wish to have the best prize in the coven for your very own?”
“I’ll not disrespect the woman I love by forcing her into something she doesn’t want to do. That’s the difference between me and you.”
“The difference?”
“Yes, you see, I happen to have lots of patience.”
Bartholomew was boiling inside, but his voice didn’t reflect his anger. “It’s funny you mention patience, because mine has just run out. You have three days to give me an answer,” Bartholomew said firmly. “If I don’t get an answer by then, I’ll kill you, Isabella, Boris, and Selena. Then I’ll get my prize. I don’t want to do that, but I will.”
“So, if I give you an answer in three days, but it’s not the answer you want, what will you do?”
“I’ll spare all of your lives, but I’ll still get Brie.”
“If her answer is no, my answer also will be no. You may not kill the others, but you’ll have to kill me to get her.”
“This is your choice. Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to be intimate with my mate. You’re excused.”
“Thank you, my lord,” Alec said as he lowered his eyes before exiting the room.
Alec immediately went to his room to talk with Boris. He was concerned for his friend, and was upset he wasn’t around to protect him.
“So how are you really Boris?” Alec asked.
“I’m fine. It took a couple of days to heal the bones, but really, I’m fine.”
“So, are you ready to do this? He has given us three days.”
“We’re supposed to plan a coup in three days?” Boris asked in shock.
“I know it’s a stretch, but if we’re going to win, this is what we’re going to have to do. I can’t stall him any longer than that.”
“Fine,” Boris said satisfied with his friend’s decision. “Where did you send Selena?”
Alec smiled and said, “Whatever you did while I was gone it worked. Isabella is now on our side. I ensured her loyalty when I told her what Bartholomew’s plan was for her.”
Boris ignored Alec’s words. “Alec, where did you send Selena?” he asked again.
Alec smiled because he knew he was driving his friend crazy. He still didn’t answer Boris’ direct question. “I’m getting to that. Isabella is ready to be free from him as well. She told me of his only weakness.”
“What is it?” Boris said, as his interest peaked.
“It seems he was made by a vampire of the Clan of the Night. Bartholomew has the same affliction as this vampire.”
“Black wood,” Boris whispered.
Alec was surprised. “Yes, but how did you know?”
“Because my friend, I also originated in the Clan of the Night. I have the same affliction.”
Alec was shocked. “You’re joking, right?”
Boris shook his head. “Alec, I think it’s only right you know about my past. After all, I’ve been alive almost as long as your parents have. Since I might die in the next couple of days, I think you should know the truth.”
“Boris, I don’t need to know where you came from. I just need to know you’re going to stand with me in this fight. Besides you’ve already told me your story.”
“No, you don’t understand. I told you a slightly different version of Isabella’s story. Most of which was lies. Believe me. It will make me feel better to tell you. Selena, like you, doesn’t know anything about this. Since I may not make it, I want to tell you so you can tell her.”
Alec smirked, shook his head, and said, “You’re not going to die.”
Boris pointed his finger in Alec’s face and said, “Listen to me you overly confident, pompous, asshole.”
“I’m all that?” Alec asked as he raised his eyebrows.
Boris chuckled and said, “And more. Shut up. I want you to hear this.”
“I’m listening,” Alec said as he chuckled himself.
“Okay,” Boris said before sighing. “Part of what Isabella told you, is true. I did belong to her, but not in the capacity you were led to believe. I was not her servant. I once was her mate.”
Alec’s mouth dropped open and just hung for a moment. Once he was over the shock, he said, “Boris you can’t be serious.”
“I wouldn’t lie to you.”
“Tell me more.”
Boris told Alec a short version of his life story. This included his relationship with Isabella, his exile, her exile, and his fall from grace. He also spoke of his clan’s susceptibility to black wood in more detail.
“Alec, now you know why I can’t handle the black wood,” he said. “The smallest splinter will kill me. Granted if it’s a splinter it will kill me slower, but I’ll die none the less.”
Alec smiled and said, “Well, I guess I’ll have to give you another duty. I planned on having you deliver the killing blow. But I’ll not have you dying from a splinter of wood.”
Boris smiled. “No, I didn’t think you would. Now, tell me what your plan is and I’ll see if I like it or not. If I don’t like it, we can change it.”
Alec smirked at Boris and asked, “Now, who’s the overly confident, pompous, asshole?”
Boris laughed aloud and said, “Gotcha.”
The two of them discussed the plan, working out the smallest details. Alec was hopeful Selena would be back the following day. Then she and her team could get going on with her piece of the plan.
Back at the Castle of Kings, Bertrand sat in his sitting room mulling his concern for Boris. Even though they had not spoken to each other in over 200 years, he was still worried, and believed he had every right to be. Boris was his elder brother, his teacher. Bertrand hadn’t thought this hard about Boris in several years, but Isabella mentioning his name now had forced him to think about what could have been.
If only he had told Isabella no when she so elegantly and forcefully approached him. He knew he would have the love of his elder brother right now. What happened between he and Boris was his fault, and now he intended to rectify it.
He wanted to do something to help without starting a war between clans. He thought he should talk to Xander about it. He figured Xander would certainly understand especially because his very own daughter was involved. Besides that, of all of the clan leaders, he was closest to Xander.
Bertrand found Xander in the training room where he was training some of the younger vampires and half breeds of his clan. Bertrand stood quietly in the archway of the training room and watched his close friend as he worked with the youth of the coven. He watched as Xander walked back and forth, counting out each move, and observing each student.
Xander was impressed with his friend’s teaching ability, but he needed to interrupt, even if he didn’t want to.
“Excuse me Master Xander, forgive the interruption. But might I have a word with you?” Bertrand asked as he walked through the group of students.
“Bertrand, I didn’t see you come in,” Xander replied. “Certainly, one moment.” Bertrand nodded.
“Maxwell!” Xander bellowed.
“Yes, my lord!”
“Please take over for me while I speak to Master Bertrand.”
“Yes, my lord,” Maxwell replied with a smile.
Maxwell was the oldest and most experienced of the class. Xander trusted him and watched as he immediately led the senior class. With that, Xander smiled and walked over to Bertrand. “What can I do for you?” Xander asked.
“It seems we’re in the same boat,” Bertrand whispered.
Xander tilted his head. “Sorry, but I don’t follow you.”
“You’ve seen your daughter?”
Xander nodded. “I have.”
“She told you of what’s going on?”
“She has.”
“I’ve seen Lady Isabella, and she’s also told me something most foul.”
“I understand.”
“Good. When you’re finished with your class, please come see me, and we’ll discuss it further.”
Two hours later, Xander was in Bertrand’s sitting room.
“So, Xander, what has your Brie told you?” Bertrand asked as he offered his friend a glass of wine.
“She told me Bartholomew has become abusive, and she’s been on the receiving end of his abuse herself.”
Bertrand nodded. “I’ve heard the same. Isabella came to me with the same story.”
“Isabella? Why would she come and see you of all people?”
“Because my brother has been on the receiving end of Bartholomew’s abuse as well.”
“Boris? Why should you care?” Xander asked. “You dislike him just as much as you do Isabella.”
“I’m aware of my feelings for them, but nonetheless, he’s still my brother. As far as I’m concerned, Bartholomew can do what he wants with Isabella, but no one hurts Boris.”
“I feel the same about Brie.”
“Well, do you think we should sit here and let our loved ones be killed?” Bertrand asked as he sipped his wine.
“We don’t know that Bartholomew would kill them.”
“Xander you can’t believe that. You have to know Bartholomew only can take the abuse so far before someone dies.”
“Hannibal would not be happy if we started a war.”
“Everything doesn’t have to end in war my friend. Both you and I are highly respected within the coven. The two of us hold the next highest seats on the council behind Darth. Do you think Darth would allow this to happen to one of his clan?”
“No, I suppose not,” Xander answered.
“Exactly. He would do something. Granted, he’s a cruel bastard, but he doesn’t abuse his own people. Isabella told me Bartholomew also has hurt my brother’s woman. I don’t like this Xander. We have to do something.”
“What are you proposing?” Xander asked in anticipation.
“Abduction.”
“So we go get him and bring him to be judged?”
“Why not?” Bertrand smirked. “It won’t be the first time he has stood before us.”
“The first time was different. Bartholomew was not a council member at that time. Then he was just rogue.”
“True enough, but Hannibal himself judged him for what he did and Bartholomew obeyed him in order to save his own life.”
“This time will be different,” Xander said.
“How so? He will still be begging for his life. Boris also was a member of the council when he was judged. Now look where he is. A servant to a vampire who’s 400 years his junior. I say we go get him before someone else gets hurt.”
Xander nodded in agreement. “Say no more. I’m in. What’s your plan?”
“Since I’m a Daywalker, I’ll go. I also have the power to move within shadows. I’ll choose the one with the closest power to my own to go with me. You own the power of stealth. You can kill without anyone knowing you were there. You pick your lieutenant, and we’ll leave tonight. It will take a day for us to get there. Once there, we’ll simply go and tell him his presence is required. If he resists, we will take him.”
“I could do this myself,” Xander proudly boasted.
“You need me. Who’s going to watch over you as you sleep? In addition, if the rumors are true, Bartholomew has become a Daywalker himself. That means he’s extremely strong.”
“Point taken.”
“This must remain a secret. You can’t tell Natasha, and I’ll not tell Jayde. If the person you choose can’t be trusted, they’re not to come with us. This will only work if Hannibal has no idea of what we’re doing. If he gets wind of this, he will be very angry with us.”
“When we return, he will be angry anyway,” Xander said as he sipped his wine again.
“Perhaps, but since Bartholomew will be before council, and all of us will be there, we’ll not be punished without the input of everyone there. Hannibal will be forced to make a decision based on the evidence before him.”
“How long has this bothered you?” Xander asked.
“Every since Isabella told me. Jayde even suggested I do something.”
“That’s unusual. Isabella must be different than she was all those years ago.”
“Why do you say that?”
“I’m most certain you’ve poisoned Jayde’s mind against Isabella. No offense my friend, but it’s normal for a man to discuss things with his mate. As a result of this, Jayde doesn’t like or trust any of us.”
Bertrand smirked and said, “Totally irrelevant. So, are you in or not?”
Xander smiled. “Yes, yes. I’m in.”
“Good. I’ll meet you outside of the castle gate at midnight. I’ll have a carriage waiting for us a mile away from the front gate.”
“See you at midnight, my friend,” Xander said as he stood up and shook Bertrand’s hand.
Meanwhile, Alec and Boris were busy honing their plan to perfection. Out of 200 vampires in the entire clan, only sixty-five were dedicated to Alec’s cause. This included the caregivers, the entire medical staff, Brie, Emma, Boris, Selena, Isabella, and Alec.
“We’re horribly outnumbered Alec,” Boris said plainly.
“I realize this, but it will work. As long as we’re quick and proficient we can take out all those loyal to Bartholomew before he knows what has happened. Then, we go after the big fish himself.”
“We don’t know him anymore,” Boris stated. “His behavior has become erratic because of his sudden change.”
“I know, but there’s nothing we can do about that. We just have to go in fighting.”
“Agreed.”
“When Selena returns, she’ll make the pikes for us. Once that’s finished, we wait until I tell Bartholomew of my decision. I’m going to tell him I’ll take over for him and he can have Brie. That will ensure all of us will live.”
“He’s a smart man, Alec. He knows you love Brie and you’ll not give her up without a fight.”
Alec smiled and said, “I already thought of that, and I’ve told him so. Before I tell him of my decision, Brie will stick to me like glue. When we’re sure he’s watching we’ll have the biggest blowout any couple has ever had. I’ll break up with her right in front of him. So, when he asks me what my decision is three days from now, I’ll tell him I’m finished with Brie, and he can have her.”
Boris smiled and said, “You know when you first came to us, I hated you. My being second in command here was the closest I was going to get to clan leadership again. Then you stepped in and took that away from me. But because of you, I’ll once again have a chance at real leadership.”
“If we pull this off, you can have the run of the farm,” Alec said with a laugh. “I personally plan on fucking my woman all day and raising some kids. Maybe you can teach me a way to enjoy human blood as you do.”
Boris laughed aloud and said, “Plan on it. I get great enjoyment in watching you get sick. However, in all seriousness, you’re smart, and you have a good head for business. You’ve been my friend for sixty years, and for that, I’m grateful.”
Alec had a confused look on his face and asked, “Only sixty years? Why’s that?
“Oh, well, I hated you for twenty of the eighty that you’ve been here, and we’ll leave it at that.”
The two of them laughed and waited for Selena to return. She got back two hours before the sun came up.
“Selena, of your team, are there any Daywalkers?” Alec inquired.
“No.”
“That’s too bad. Well get down to the catacombs and get to work. When it’s time for you to rest, then rest. I need the pikes ready by tomorrow when you wake.”
“Yes, my lord.”
“Oh, and Selena, from now on, I’m just Alec. If we pull this off, I’ll be the lord and master of this clan and you’ll address me as so. However, for now, we’re preparing to die. There’s no need to go into battle in servitude. I don’t want any of you to carry that on your shoulders. I’ll take the burden myself, understand?”
Selena smiled and said, “Yes…Alec.”
“Good, now get busy.”
Selena’s team worked hard to get the pikes ready. Selena’s lieutenant, Remus, suggested that the pikes be only two feet long with most of the length attached to the outside of the user’s arm by two leather straps. This still would allow the use of both hands, he explained. Selena agreed.
Once they finished cutting the bark from the branches they collected, they sharpened them, and attached leather straps in two places. One was at the wrist and the other in the middle of the forearm. Not only would this give the user freedom of both hands, it will also allow the weapon to go unnoticed if the user wore long sleeves, Remus further explained.
Before they rested, they had fashioned thirty-two weapons. In the meantime, Bertrand and Xander were on their way.
The following evening, the Daywalkers slept if this was their choice. This was the time for the Nightwalkers to roam the hallways. Boris, being a Daywalker, couldn’t sleep. He was to be on constant guard until the weapons were finished. He kept a constant eye on what was happening, and would report any unusual activity to Alec when he woke.
The weapons were finished two hours after the sun went down. Now it was up to Selena and her team to distribute them. They did this while the eventual receivers of the weapons were doing other things. Once the weapons were in the hands of the users, Selena reported back to Alec.
“It’s finished,” she proudly announced.
“Good job, Selena.”
“Thank you. Now I must get down to donor duty before Bartholomew gets suspicious.”
“Understood.”
The staff of the Baby Farm went about its duties as if nothing was different. Exactly at fifteen minutes after midnight, Xander and Bertrand arrived, greeted by Tristan, Bartholomew’s personal servant. Tristan invited them to wait in the main sitting room. As they waited, Tristan went to retrieve Alec.
“Master Alec, we have visitors.”
“Who is it Tristan? It’s mighty late to receive guests.”
“It’s both the Masters Bertrand and Xander.”
Alec wondered why. Perhaps, they were there to help, he hoped. “Please tell them I’ll be with them in a minute.”
Alec purposely made them wait five minutes and then he made an appearance.
“Masters Xander and Bertrand, it’s a pleasure to receive you.”
Bertrand was beginning to get tired, and he didn’t want to waste time. “My lord, we’re here for Master Bartholomew. Master Hannibal seeks an audience with him. Please retrieve him for us, and we’ll be out of your hair.”
Alec knew they were there of their own accord, and not as they said. Because of them, he figured he would not have to continue with his plans.
Alec smiled and said, “I’ll return shortly.”
Alec was more than happy to tell Bartholomew the clan had visitors.
“My lord, Masters Xander and Bertrand are here to see you.”
“What do they want?” Bartholomew asked.
“It’s not my business to ask this. They asked to see you, and I’m doing as they asked.”
“Alright Alec. Tell them I’ll be there momentarily.”
“As you wish, my lord.”
Minutes later, Bartholomew appeared before his colleagues, very agitated. “Bertrand, Xander, what do you want? We’re very busy here.”
“Master Hannibal would like to see you,” Bertrand explained. “We were sent here to get you.”
“Might I ask why?”
“No, because we don’t know ourselves.”
“I find it very odd that Hannibal would send both the second and third on the council to get me. Retrieval missions are for the peons. No, I’ll not go. Hannibal hasn’t sent you. Therefore, if you wish me to leave these walls, you’ll have to take me.”
Xander sighed loudly before speaking up. “Bartholomew, don’t make us do this. Hannibal wants to see you, and we’ll take you if we have to, but we would prefer you come with us of your own accord.”
Bartholomew just smiled and said, “Catch me if you can.” He then disappeared right before their eyes.
Bertrand looked at Xander almost in a panic and said, “He has indeed adopted the ways of my clan, and since he can do this, he’s stronger than me. There only have been two other vampires in the history of my clan who could do what Bartholomew just did.”
“Who were they?”
“My parents.”
“Well then, you should know how to fight him. What are you waiting on Bertrand? Go. I’ll follow if I can.”
“No. We’ll come for him later. Let’s go for now.”
“You can’t be serious. We have him on the run.”
“Xander, we’re not to leave here without him. I promise we’ll get him, but for now, we must leave. We came here to take Bartholomew, not interrupt the workings of the coven’s Baby Farm.”
Bertrand and Xander went back to their carriage. The two of them sat in silence for a moment, and then Bertrand said, “I can’t believe it.”
“What?” Xander asked.
“If Bartholomew were of my clan, he easily could overthrow me. He’s by far the strongest of my people. Now I understand how he was able to defeat Boris.”
Xander sighed and said, “I was hoping we wouldn’t have to chase him. I wanted this to be easy. So, what’s the plan?”
“We wait for a bit and do what we do best.”
“I have a question, and you don’t have to tell me if you don’t want to. But how did he do that? I know your clan can move within shadows, undetected, but there was no shadow. How did he just disappear like that?”
“I’m not sure how it actually works, but it’s a very complex illusion.”
“And only your parents could do this?”
“Yes.”
“Incredible. If we get our hands on him, will he be able to disappear like that again?”
“No. It’s as I said. A very complex illusion.”
Bertrand, Xander and their lieutenants moved on the Baby Farm two hours later. Bertrand and his second, Sirus, were armed with swords. Xander and his second, Corbin, carried short pikes made of black wood.
The four of them snuck into the castle in true warrior fashion. When they found Bartholomew, he was in the middle of being intimate with two of his servants. He was not aware that there were four others in the room.
Xander and Corbin snatched a naked Bartholomew out of the bed, held him down on the floor, and pointed the black wood pikes at his neck. With this, his servants ran from the room naked. Bartholomew was both surprised and angry.
“Xander how dare you!” he screamed.
Bertrand and Sirus emerged from the shadows of the walls.
“Oh shut up,” Bertrand said.
“Bertrand, why have you disturbed me?” Bartholomew asked.
“We would have preferred you come with us without a fuss. However, since you dared us to ‘catch you if we could’, we thought we would show you we could. Now, I don’t suggest you do much struggling because the pikes aimed at your neck will kill you instantly.”
“So, Master Hannibal really does want to see me?” Bartholomew asked, almost frightened.
Bertrand sighed and said, “Honestly Bartholomew, do you think I would take a whole day’s ride away from my beautiful Jayde to get you if he didn’t?”
“What does he want to see me about?”
“We have already told you. We don’t know.”
“Will you allow me to put my clothes on before you take me?”
“You have clothing waiting for you in the carriage. We’ll take you out the way we came in. You’ll not open your mouth or utter one word. If Xander hears so much as a peep out of you, he will kill you, understand?” Bartholomew nodded. “Good. Xander, let him up, but don’t let go of him. Let’s go.”
The next evening when Isabella woke, Bartholomew was not in the bed next to her. She found this unusual because even though he was sleeping with anyone who would have him, when it was time to rest, he would always rest in his own bed.
Isabella went to look for her Daywalking servant.
“Willow, where’s Master Bartholomew?”
“I don’t know, my lady. I thought he was with you.”
“You didn’t see him walking around during the day?”
“No, my lady. I haven’t seen Master Bartholomew since last night.”
Isabella had a confused look on her face and said, “Thank you, Willow. You can rest now if you wish.”
“Thank you, my lady.”
Isabella put on her clothes and went to Alec’s room. When she knocked, he didn’t answer. She then went to the nursery. She found him there smooching with Brie.
“Excuse me, Alec,” Isabella said.
“What’s the matter?” Alec asked.
“Bartholomew’s not in the castle.”
Alec smiled and said, “I know.”
“How do you know this?”
“Last night, we had visitors, and tonight, Bartholomew’s gone. I would assume they took him away.”
Isabella was confused. “Why would someone come to the castle and just take him away? Someone would have seen them leaving. Who could have done this?”
Alec smiled and said, “None other than the Masters Xander and Bertrand themselves.”
This brought a smile to Isabella’s face. “He came!”
“Yes, my lady, he did, and he did it without disturbing anything.”
“So, what do we do now?” Isabella asked.
“Well, we can’t relax, that’s for sure. Since the plan already is in place, we’ll just have to wait. There’s a chance he won’t come back. However, if he does, he’ll know we betrayed him, and he’s going to be very angry. So, we should be ready for a fight until we know for sure he’s not coming back.”
Isabella sighed in relief and said, “I’m glad. I wasn’t quite ready. It was all happening so fast.”
~~~