The Prophecy Chapter Twenty-Two

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Chapter Twenty-Two: Dark Magic and Vampires

Kaelea found herself wandering the streets of Magia. She was having trouble sleeping...she was afraid to sleep. She was afraid of what would happen to her when she awoke. Faedra saw Kaelea leave the inn and decided to follow her. "My dear why are you out so late?"

"Because I cannot sleep."

"Why?"

She turned and looked at her. "Because I am afraid to find out what Dantor did to me...I think he may have managed to turn me...the darkness is lurking around me, waiting for me to close my eyes and give in. I am really scared."

"Oh...don't worry everything will be fine. I promise."

"You don't understand Dara. I don't like the way it feels to be mad and feel hatred. It's scary."

"You are strong and I have faith in you. You will fight this."

"I hope so."

"Go to sleep. We will talk again in the morning."

Faedra turned and left with a heart-warming smile on her lips. Go to sleep? How could she?

After some time she heard someone come from the brush. "Nice night isn't it?"

"Who are you?" She turned around to see a woman with hardly anything on.

"Who I am is none of your concern."

"Okay... how about what do you want?"

"I am to take you somewhere."

"Me?"

"Yes you."

"May I ask why?"

"Because someone has an interest of sorts with you...Why I will never know."

"Who?"

"Stefan."

"As in the vampire stalking my sister? I don't think so."

"You have no choice."

"Says you."

"Yes, says me."

"And how are you going to stop me?"

Daeyli smiled. "Don't tempt me."

"If he wants to see me he can come and get me."

Stefan stepped out from near by.

"Didn't trust me?"

"No. I just got bored and decided to come along. Less suspicion if we don't take her out of the city."

"What do you want?" She asked him.

"At the moment to meet the sister of my future consort?"

"Wasn't two meetings enough?"

"I've only seen you once. I have no idea what you're talking about."

"Don't you?"

"No."

She smiled. "Are my clothes too revealing for you now?"

"Well at the moment you look a lot like a mage. And I must say I like the color. You...look a lot like your sister. I hadn't really noticed that before."

"What does that have to do with anything?"

"Well...it's-it doesn't yet."

She quirked an eyebrow. "Yet?"

"Yes. Let's just say...I might have something in mind for you. Maybe Dracula had the right idea."

"I don't follow."

"He had three brides."

She made a face. "You have got to be kidding me. I wouldn't touch you if you were the last undead thing in the universe."

"Funny, your sister...who I might add is also an undead thing, told me almost the exact same thing."

"We must be more alike than I thought."

"Yes...you seem to be more than half sisters that's for sure."

"I don't follow."

"You didn't know? Your parents had three daughters. You were the youngest, the oldest was raised on Earth, and I- none of us have been able to find out what happened to her twin."

Three...? "Well...I guess there is something I didn't know...but it doesn't mean that I am going to help you find out."

"Well...several people have been searching for your other sister for years."

"If they have gone unsuccessful for this many years odds are they will continue to be. Is there not one competent villain out of the lot of you? This truly is sad."

Stefan began to walk towards her. She kept her stance, tall, unafraid. He reached her and reached out to her. He grabbed hold of her by the waist and pulled her closer.

"May I ask what you think your doing?"

"No, you may not." He leaned in to bite her.

"Vilante!" She whispered. He flew off of her.

"You're powerful. I like that. This isn't over. I will be seeing you again. And now I have business to attend to."

"Going so soon?"

"Yes. I have a meeting to go to."

"I'm sure. Say hi to my sister for me."

"And which sister would that be?"

"Who else...Karia."

"Well...I don't even know the name of your other sister...but if you wanted me to pass a message to her I would feel obliged to do so...if you would tell me who she is."

She smirked. "Even if I knew I wouldn't tell you."

"Well...yes thank you for your wonderful help. I will be seeing you later."

"Yes, I'm sure."

~*~

"This city is beautiful. I am going to hate to leave it behind."

"Leave it behind? Where are you going?"

"Well...after this is all over I can't rightly stay here. This isn't my place. I am from another world...accustomed to it's ways..."

"But you were born here...So why can't you stay here?"

She looked out at the water. She sighed. "I don't belong here and I certainly don't feel as if I do. I am a creature of the night...a monster. I don't deserve to be among your people...I don't think people will look at me and say, there goes a beautiful princess...it would be more like, AHHHH a cursed one."

"But they can't tell that just by looking at you."

"Yes, but I don't look like a princess either... my style is out of this world...and...it is not a place that I could feed."

"You look alot like...Kaelea and she's a Queen."

"Yes, but she has the mannerism and dresses like one...I don't know how I should act...wouldn't know where to begin. I have this dreadful accent and ..." She sighed again..."The only good thing for me here is family and ...Vanidor...but I don't know if that's enough."

"But what about us? I mean...we can't just go to earth or anything and I-Your- your- my twin. I don't not want to see you again. And Vanidor loves you. What's he going to do when you leave. He's an elf there's no way he could live on earth."

She smirks. "I am sure he could manage...I don't know...I am sure you have-no never mind you haven't it's an earth saying...You can't teach an old dogs new tricks...I doubt I could be taught how to live here...but yes your right I can't leave either. I don't know what to do."

"Umm...what do dogs have to do with anything?"

She smiled. "It's an analogy...comparing myself in a way...they can't be taught new tricks and neither can I."

"Well...the Elves are Immortal and every few years they learn a new skill so that they don't get bored with what they were doing before."

"I would have a lot to learn and every few years wouldn't cut it...it would have to be rigorous and I would have to do it everyday."

"Well nobody would expect you to act like the perfect Elven lady...okay Rael might but she's out of the picture. I wasn't exactly Elven when I went to live with them...of course I was also eight years old."

"Lia, there are some things you just can't understand. I hear what they say behind my back. They can't except what I am and Gildor freaked when Vanidor offered me some blood. I don't feel welcome...they make me feel like a reject...I can't live my life like that...that is the only thing that makes me feel as if I really am cursed."

"Well I don't think he did that because of what you are-or just because you're..."

"A vampire? You can't even say the word."

"I-I'm not used to the word. We usually use a different one...and as for Gildor, I-it wasn't because you're a vampire...I don't think. I think he just thought you were hurting his brother.'

"Yes, but that comes with the territory. I am a vampire so automatically pain comes into those who know...they think that if I feed I must kill...they don't think I am capable of anything else...hence my problem."

"But we know now because-because we...know that you...fed and didn't kill."

"Yes, but people can excuse that a way...oh he was part of the group, one of her people...that is why she didn't kill him...etc...etc..."

"Yes but-you're-good. You're not like the rest of them."

"Yes, well...not all of them are bad. That is why we have a bad rep. Angel isn't bad and neither am I. I also know a ton of others who aren't either but yet we are slandered no matter where we go and have to watch who we tell...you never know when you'll meet a slayer. Most of them don't care whether you're good or bad. They just go after you...I have killed many trying to defend my own life..."

"What's a slayer?"

"They are trained to kill vampires...there is one Slayer but there are many potential slayers....and it is the potential slayers that I have killed, although I did have a run in with Buffy, the current slayer and she gave me quite a workout until Angel intervened."

"So...why didn't she go after Angel?"

"Because she loves him...they know each other very well. I don't think Angel knows this but I left because I loved him and knew I could never have him. Then I met someone else and he was human...he knew what I was and loved me for who I was...he died for me trying to save me...my heart has never recovered...that is why I am so reluctant to go into this relationship with Vanidor...I am afraid to allow my heart to love him...but it's so hard...he to loves me for who I am...I just...I don't know if I could take it if he -well if anything happened to him...I would...well...I am sure you get the point."

"Yeah...it's probably the same way I'd feel if something happened to Dakkon."

She smiles. "So...it's official then?"

"Yeah it is. After he kind of stopped me from trying to follow you."

"Good thing too...wouldn't want you to be bored along the way...that is pretty much what happened...except for...well...the night Vanidor told me not to be afraid...it was a perfect night...and he kissed me."

"He did?! I knew he said he loved you but...I didn't realize he'd actually...so to quote your own words...It's official then?"

She smiles. "I suppose so. Have you seen Kaelea since her return?"

"Briefly. I...kind of didn't think of anything to say to her. I mean I knew her as the person in the Vale who was closest to my age...and then she was my cousin...and now she's my-"

Karia put up a hand and turned to see Stefan in the distance, but he was close enough to have eavesdropped.

"Just what is it that you are doing here? And how did you get in?"

'I've been in. And did you think I could resist a chance to see you. By the way Kaelea said to say hi to her sister...not quite sure which one that message was to go to."

"Me of course." Karia stated. "I would appreciate it if you would leave her out of it, my cousin as well..."

"Does that include your boyfriend too?"

"Well...I see you made sure to hear my entire conversation. What the hell do you want?"

"You. And your sister."

"You will leave Kaelea alone."

"Am I to leave your other sister alone as well?"

"Yes."

"Ah so you admit she's your sister."

"What will it take for you to leave the one's I care about alone? And keep a secret as to who my third sister is?"

"What makes you think anyone else would care about who you're third sister is."

"I can read your thoughts...and I would appreciate if Kaelea and I were out of them."

"Hmmm...the two of you are rather difficult to keep out of my thoughts. Your other sister certainly doesn't look much like you." He began to walk towards them. "Although she's beautiful as well. Maybe I really should take a lesson from Dracula."

"You will be dead before you could try." She stepped closer.

"What did he mean by that?" She whispers.

"He wants to turn you and Kaelea and take us all as his wives...but what fun would the two of you be without your souls?"

"You still have your soul." Stefan stated.

"Only because of Angel."

"Ah, yes your Angel. Would you like to know what he used to be capable of. The year he turned me, him and Darla took off leaving two fledglings behind, because they were trying to flee the vampire hunter Holtz. They gave no thought of what would happen to his Children."

"Yes...well I see you did just find on your own."

"Yes...I did no thanks to my sire. Do you know out of all those he turned that the only one he considered to keep with him for a certain length of time was Drucilla."

"Yes, well...you will not succeed in turning me against him. I don't care about what he did in the past...He has changed...something you should do as well."

"How about the fact that he killed one of his Children...one by the name of Penn."

"Yes, well as I recall he went around on killing sprees. If Angel hadn't I would have."

"Well, out of all the many he's turned I believe only...four are left."

"Yes...well I am sure she will be dying shortly, she is on thin ice."

"Yes, once again showing his tendency to kill his children. How long do you think it will be before he kills you?"

"There is a difference. I am not evil...the rest of you are."

"Have you met all of us?"

"Most of you. There was only 12."

"12? He must have been busy between 1802 and when I met up with him again in 1886."

"He didn't even turn one a year...so I would say no he wasn't. Now what do you want? This banter is pointless."

"I told you what I want a couple of months ago. Now, the question is what will it take for you to agree to it."

"I would say a lot. You disgust me...you send shivers down my spine."

"Thank you for the compliment."

"Yes, you would take that as a compliment wouldn't you?"

"Yes. Well...it was nice chatting with you. And your sister."

"If I catch you near them again...I will not hesitate to kill you."

"Yes...well you might not need to worry about one of them."

"Yes, but the question is which one."

"That's for you to figure out, Childe."

" I am not your Childe, and you know that...you said so earlier on...by trying to convince me that he was out to kill me. Now you may stop pretending."

"Well...I'm sure I'll be seeing you again...and with your sister's I might give you a choice. I will let you decide which one...and if you chose not to decide, I will take both of them."

"Over my undead body."

"Witty, I like that. You and your youngest sister are a lot alike. Although... you should wear red more often. I think it will become you as much as it becomes her."

"I am warning you one last time...stay away from them...I don't care what you try to do to me but you leave them out of this."

"We'll see." He turned to Lia. "It was a pleasure meeting you. I hope I will have the pleasure again soon."

"I wouldn't call it a pleasure." She told him quietly.

He smiled and walked away.

"Umm...was that your stalker?"

"Yeah. Let's head in. I don't want another encounter with him tonight, and we should go and find Kaelea as well."

"Do you know what red means?"

"Well, I know it's a dark color and that it's his favorite color."

"Well...among the mages...the ones who wear red robes are evil."

"We better get her out of them then."

"Do you think what they said at the council...you think they...turned her?"

"I think she is fighting off...no telling when she will change."

"Well according to the mage legends, once some one turns there is only a certain amount of time in which to turn one back, but I don't know how much time that is."

"We need to get Fairin on this soon then. She is strong willed but she can't fight it off forever."

~*~

Kaelea found Aravan sitting alone under a tree. He seemed to reading something. She walked over with her hands behind her back. "Hey. What are you up to?"

He looked up at her. "Kaelea?"

She smiled. "One in the same."

"Yes...I was just waiting for someone. Is there something you wanted?'

"No...I was just walking around and I saw a familiar face."

"Oh...would you like to sit down...the person I'm expecting won't be here for another two candle marks."

She smiled again. "I would like that." She walked over to him and sat semi close to him. "What are you reading?"

"A letter from my father."

"Oh...and where is he?"

"He...lives on the world of Krynn. I don't know if you have heard of it."

"Krynn...hmmm....Silvanesti perhaps?"

"Yes, actually. My father is Silvanos."

"Oh the king. I heard a bit of that while I was in Kris' clutches and then when Kane and Dantor took me...although I spent most of my time with Dantor...he's not very nice...he made me very mad..."

"No Dantor's not very nice. I've spent some time with him myself. Isn't he working with Isarak though? I thought he and Kane were enemies...or still trying to keep up the illusion."

"Yes, but he is spying on Isarak and I have now foiled that...I made him suspicious of Dantor."

"You got away from Isarak without having to take a test? I think you and Isethia are the only ones who have passed through his lands without being tested."

"Oh I was tested alright...Aylis was very kind too do so."

A strange look came upon his features at the mention of Aylis' name. "You saw...her?"

"I did more than that. I knocked her on her butt."

"Well...I can't say she didn't deserve that. How did you do that?"

"Want me to show you?"

"Not particularly."

She smiled as she stood. She stood in front of him and raised a hand. His letter flew out of his hand and into hers.

"It's quite easy really. All I have to do is think of something I want and I get it."

"So...what exactly do you want here?"

"I can't just be friendly?"

"I guess you can. It's...just that I think this is the first time you have voluntarily spoken to me."

"Yes...well...it's not you I'm after...although it is very tempting..."

"What's that supposed to me? Who exactly are you after? And after for what?"

"I want to kill them...I want the man that took over your body and raped me."

"That...wasn't quite how the control worked."

She quirked an eyebrow. "Are you saying you did so on your own recognizance?"

"I'm ...not sure, at the time I was aware of what I was doing and. . .wanted to do so. And then afterwards I remembered it being different then it actually was. But- I was actually the one committing the actions. I would like to be able to completely blame someone else but the fact remains that I did those things."

"Am I still a tempting morsel?"

"I have no intention of doing that again if that is what you mean. And if I could do anything to make up for what I did to you..."

"What you can do...is die." She raised a hand and he slid upwards along the tree before she tossed him to the ground. After he fell she walked over to him and stood on his back. "How does it feel to be the prey? Not very nice is it. You could have avoided all of this but no you dug our own grave...couldn't let Stefan take all the blame."

"Okay...you've made your point."

"Have I?" She turned him over with a turn of her hand. " I kind of like being evil...it gives me power. Now I don't have to be afraid...no one will ever hurt me again."

"And how will you feel later when you realize what you have done? Guilt is not an easy emotion to live with."

"Yes you would know wouldn't you? I will think about that when I get there. I live in the now." She raised her hand and he was levitated into the air. "Pyre!" Beneath him flames were dancing, he could feel the heat, it was a bit to close for his comfort. "Shall we play a game?"

"Is this your idea of a game?"

"Oh no I am just getting started." She drew out a dagger and walked up to him. She took it and traced it down his chest. "Not so scary anymore." She whispered. She put a bit of pressure on the blade, blood trickling down his chest.

Ria saw this from a distance...but she was still too far away, she broke out into a run.

She then took the knife to his neck and brought it to his back. She took his cloak off and ran the blade down his back and to his thigh. She touched the tip to his thigh and again inserted pressure. It broke the skin but just barely. She pushed the blade in a bit more. He flinched.

"You may not want to move...you may accidentally make the knife go through your leg...wouldn't want that would you, considering you have just recovered..."

"No."

She removed the knife allowing the blood to feed the fire. It rose slightly...almost touching his toes.

"Get away from him."

She turned to see Ria. Her eyes completely black. "You stay away, or you will be next."

She drew her sword. "Don't make me hurt you. You are a good person under the influence of some very bad stuff...just walk away."

"You insolent fool. I like this. Dantor never told me how much of a gift it would be...maybe then I wouldn't have refused him."

"Put Aravan down...away from the fire."

"Step away or he will be consumed by it."

"You're bluffing."

"Am I?"

She backed up a bit. Kaelea turned her attention back to Aravan. Ria moved in and put the blade up against her back. "You will back away from him now."

She laughed. "Will I?" She moved her head and sent Ria flying backwards. She stood and ran after her. She was flown back again, missing the tree by inches. She grabbed a dagger and threw it at her. Kaelea moved her hand and it hit Aravan in the shoulder. He winced.

"Killing two birds with one stone." She smiled.

"Stop being a coward and fight me."

She grabbed Aravan's spear. "Okay...Ria...we'll do it your way."

Ria lunged at her, she dodged and Ria managed to knock Aravan away from the fire and onto the ground. She turned and lunged again. This time she succeeded in cutting Kaelea, she reopened her stomach wound she got at the battle, ripping the dress.

"That wasn't very nice." She lunged at her and got Ria in the arm.

Aravan unsheathed his long knife and went after Kaelea. He tried to disarm her. He disarmed her successfully.

Kaelea waved her hand and they both went flying. "I am getting a bit bored with these theatrics. I think I will kill you both now and get it over with."

"You have no reason to kill Ria. All she is trying to do is stop you from doing something you will regret later."

"She cut me that is reason enough. Now the question remains...who shall go first?"

"I won't let you kill her."

"And what can you do to stop me?"

"I'll figure something out."

"Indeed." She raised a hand and Ria levitated into the air. She spun her a few times and then dropped her very close to the fire. "Fire rise...and consume her flesh..." She was cut off. Aravan got up and threw the dagger at her to where the hilt will hit her. She turned in a fury. The fire had begun to rise and was inching toward Ria who was unconscious. "You fool." Her voice taking a darker tone. "Do you really think that you can defeat me?" She took the dagger and walked over to Ria. She raised it. Aravan came over there and grabbed her hands holding the dagger. There was a struggle and a shuffle. Kaelea lost her footing and fell the knife catching her stomach. She looked up at Aravan eyes wide.

Aravan walked over to the fire and grabbed Ria away from the fire. She sat up eyes fuming. She raised a hand. A fireball formed in the air. And she sent it towards Aravan and Ria. The fireball froze in midair and hit the ground with a thud. Kaelea stood, holding her stomach, and turned to see whom was behind her.

"Who did that?"

"I did." Lia stated.

"You? What gives you the right to interfere?"

"I didn't want my sister becoming a murderer."

She laughed. "Your sister is dead."

"No...just misguided."

"I don't have time for your games." She turned back to Aravan and Ria to see that he had managed to get them to a safe distance. She extinguished the fire with a word and began to walk slowly towards them.

"Kaelea!" She turned to see Fairin. There seemed to be a brief flash of something in her eyes.

"Yes?"

"Please...don't do this. Don't start down a path that you won't be able to come back from. I -I don't want to lose you. I love you." He walked towards her. She wanted to run to him but the darkness still held her...she took a step back.

"I don't know what you're talking about."

"You're not evil. You can still come back. Please. I love you." He continued to walk towards her. She didn't move back.

"Yes, so you tell me..." There was another flash in her eyes...as if she was fighting it. "Hel-No...leave me alone."

"I can't do that." He closed the distance between them. He reached out for her, she took a step back. He reached for her again. He placed his hand on her waist.

"What are you doing?"

"This." He drew her to him and kissed her.

She closed her eyes and tried to fight the darkness...it was still there. Why? Why wouldn't it leave her? "Fair-NO. Leave us alone. You cannot have her...she is mine now." She stepped back again.

"I won't lose you. If you want me to leave you alone you will have to kill me."

She raised a hand. "Don't tempt me."

"I will not leave you. I love you."

She raised her hands to her ears. "Stop! I don't want to hear this!" Her eyes began to return to normal...slowly. Fairin approached her again. "Chieran."

She fell to her knees and closed her eyes. She tried to fight but it was fighting too..."No...please....stop."

He took hold of the hand that was in front of her. He kissed it. She squeezed her eyes shut and placed a hand on the ground, her head bowed, panting. The power wouldn't let her go...but she kept fighting.

"Leave..." She whispered.

"I can't leave. I will not leave you. I love you, Dara."

She groaned and whimpered and after a moment the darkness lifted, she remained hunched over, but now she was sobbing.

He pulled her into his arms and held onto her.

"Sorry..." She whispered, almost inaudibly. "It was...so strong..."

"Shh. It's okay. It's over."

She looked up into his eyes. "Promise they will never get me again...I never want to feel that hate...I don't want to feel that pain again."

"They won't get you. I promise." He turned to the other two. "Can one of you please find a healer."

Karia nodded and ran off at lightning speed. After a few moments she found Vanidor and brought him to the site. He looked around and went over to Aravan and Ria. Ria was fine and he quickly healed Aravan's wound. He then went to Kaelea. Her hand covered her stomach...it was covered in her blood. He laid her on his back and removed her hand from the wound. He looked at it but couldn't sense how bad it was. She wouldn't stop bleeding. Karia walked over and sat beside him.

"You can use my energy...it's only fair." She rested a hand on his shoulder and began to feed it to him. He rested his hands above the wound and concentrated on it. A blue light surrounded the wound and stopped the bleeding. He healed it as best he could before pulling away.

Kaelea smiled weakly at them and eased herself up. She put a hand to her head...she was suddenly very dizzy. Fairin stood immediately and caught her as she fell into his arms and went limp. Karia stood and caught her bearings before slowly walking back to her sister. They all walked back towards the inn.

Fairin brought Kaelea into his room and laid her down gently on the bed. He sat beside her on bed and began to clean her healed wound. He poured the water into the basin and then cleaned up the blood from her stomach and her hand. He then tended to her shoulder wound and watched over her while she slept, occasionally touching her cheek or brushing the hair from her face.

~*~

Gildor was standing watch over the inn and making sure nothing went sour. He decided that he would go for a walk. Might as well take a look around while he was at it. Stefan watched from the jail as a familiar face emerged from the inn…Vanidor he thought instantly. He walked away from the jail and walked toward Gildor. He lunged and landed on Gildor, knocking Gildor to the ground. Gildor struggled rather unsuccessfully. Stefan turned him around.

"She is mine and you thought she could be yours."

"What are you talking about?"

"I'm going to show you what happens when anyone comes between me and my Childe."

"Who?"

"You know who."

"No I don't."

"Yes you do."

"Can you be more specific?"

"You know very well what I am talking about."

"No I really don't."

"Yes. But it doesn't matter whether or not you want to admit that you know." Stefan grabbed for one of Gildor's weapons. He drew it and held it to his neck. "I could kill you and leave you here for her to find. Then she will have no choice but to come to me."

Gildor struggled again.

Stefan put a bit of force on the blade, cutting into Gildor's skin.

"What exactly do you want?"

"I want to remind her who she belongs to."

"Who is she?"

"Like you really need to ask that."

"Just humor me."

"You know so there's no reason to tell you. And just remember who is in charge here." He increased the pressure on the blade…cutting into the skin a bit more.

Karia sniffed the air…blood…that isn't normal. What the hell-Stefan. She stood and walked to the inn door. She got outside and looked around. She saw two figures in the distance. Shit! She took off running. When she got close enough she lunged and pushed Stefan off of Gildor. Who had previously been putting more pressure on the blade which was in turn cutting into Gildor's neck.

She pushed Stefan onto the floor, straddling his body, fangs out. "What the hell do you think your doing?!"

"What does it look like I'm doing, Childe."

"Killing Gildor that is what it looks like…I wanna know why."

He had an oops expression on his face. Gildor put pressure on the wound got up slowly and went in search of his brother.

"You are an idiot!"

"That is your opinion." He switched there positions.

"Get off of me!" She squirmed.

"No! Not until you give me what I want."

"And what may I ask do you want at this very second?"

"The same thing I always want. For you to come with me."

"Come with you where?"

"To be my bride."

She sighed. "How many times do I have to tell you? Not interested."

"Maybe you will change your mind…maybe next time I shall go after some one else. One of your sister's maybe."

"You son of bitch you wouldn't dare!"

"Well I have plans for one of them…so she will have to wait, however I have no plans for your twin."

"I know that even if I go with you that you will still go after Kaelea…the only way I will agree is you give them both up."

"Not a chance."

"Than you don't get me."

"It looks like I already have you."

"Looks can be deceiving."

"Oh really, now whose the one pinned on the ground?"

At that moment Stefan flew off of her, and found himself under Angel's grip.

She stood. "You." She said with a smirk.

"You need to stop bothering her Stefan. How many times must I tell you? Do I have to kill you too?"

"You mean like you've killed all of your other children? Just who is left anyway?"

"Yes, but you see they were all misbehaving too, and since I am your maker…I have the right to take away that gift which I gave you…don't force me…I may enjoy it too much." He released his grip. "Get out of here."

"Yes you're such a good sire. You and Darla abandoned us to Holtz."

"And you seemed to handle it fine, which I knew you would."

"Yes we did no thanks to you."

"Yes thanks to me. It was a test, a test in which you passed. Who do you think sent Holtz to you? We had to make sure you were ready and you were."

"Holtz was chasing you and Darla because you murdered his family."

"Eh….so you think."

"Yes that is what I think. And I also think you abandoned us."

"I did. You weren't worth my time and your still not…besides you were ready to be on your own. As for the other…well…it was a mercy turning…and I turned you to give him a companion. At least I didn't leave you alone. Ain't I a bastard?"

"A mercy turning? I didn't think you were that weak when you were evil. I thought that came after the soul. I didn't think Angelus was capable of mercy."

"Yes, well…he was dying so I gave him a choice…you were just out of convenience…sorry I turned you now…your just a nuisance…a sad excuse for a vampire."

"Yes you turned him so you could kill him, just like you killed your other children, after all he is just like the rest of us."

"Correction he was. He went good…so I don't have to kill him…It's you and Dru. I'm worried about."

"Yes…well…I have business to attend to. Nice chatting with you sire."

"Stay away. This time I mean it."

Stefan just turned and walked off.

Angel turned to her. "Are you okay?"

: Next time, my dear, I will either go after your boyfriend or your twin.: Stefan sent to her with a smile on his lips.

Karia cringed. "No, no I'm not and I won't be until he is dead."

"Yes, well you may get that chance."

"Are you kidding? I couldn't even handle him out here… I can't very well kill him, now can I?"

"What does he want the most?"

"Me."

"Then give it to him."

"What?!"

"If you act like you want to be with him you can get him when he least expects it. He will never kill you…your too precious too him." Angel smirked.

"Just thinking about that gives me the creeps. How could I possibly do that?"

"Act my dear. The sooner the better. We wouldn't want him to succeed in killing someone next time. I am sure you can find him if you really wanted to."

~*~

Gildor knocked on his brother's door. Vanidor heard the knock from his chair, got up and went to the door. He opened it rather surprised to see his brother bleeding from his throat.

"Oh my god what happened?"

"The basic answer is that I was attacked. I have no idea why. I think they were looking for you."

"Why do you think that?"

"Because he kept telling me that I know what he was talking about and I had no idea. Something about coming in between him and his Childe."

He sat his brother down and looked at the wound. He held his hands out and healed him. "It was Stefan. He's Karia's master or something like that. He's been following her around for awhile."

"So another words that was a cursed one?"

"Yes. We believe we think that he may be the yellowed eyed man; the one Aravan was looking for. I don't know much about him beyond that."

Karia approached Vanidor's door and was about to knock until she heard what they were discussing…

"And do you think it's a good idea to get involved with…her?"

"I love her."

"You barely know her."

"Before you criticize who I'm involved with, just remember that I'm not the one married to a necromancer."

"Just because she has those powers doesn't mean that that is what she is."

"Yes, and just because Karia is a vampire doesn't mean she is like Stefan."

"Yes it does. How could you be so stupid as to get involved with someone like that? And now she's putting everyone in danger. You were the one he meant to come after. Someone wants to kill you just because you are involved with her."

"It's not like she's asking him to stalk her."

"You sure about that? She must have done something to make him obsessed."

"Or maybe it's just because he's evil. Did you ever think of that? And I seem to remember from your report of your mission that Isarak picked you as one of the people who take the test and would be killed so he would have access to his daughter."

"That… was different."

"What exactly are you angry about anyway? I have as much right as you do to choose who I fall in love with."

"Do you even know what love is? You completely ignored the feelings that everyone could see Kaelea had for you, while you were chasing after someone who was in a serious relationship."

"Yes, well that was in the past."

"That was a couple of months ago."

"Yes…a couple of months."

"So do you have any intention of coming to your senses?"

"I already have. I did that when I realized I loved her."

"How do you know she doesn't have you under any kind of enchantment? According to what I've learned, cursed ones use some kind of seductive ensnarement to entrap there victims."

Karia stepped into the doorway. "If I had ensnared him he would have been dead by now." She turned and walked away, tears coming from her eyes.

"If you're done interfering stuff that doesn't concern you, I'm going after her."

"Fine. I'll talk to you when you've come to your senses."

He walked out and ran after her. Gildor left after that, closing the door behind him.

Vanidor caught up to her outside the Inn she was still walking. He placed his hand on her arm and turned her. "I'm sorry you had to hear that."

"Yeah…well I'm not. Now I know where I stand. I am not welcome here… he had a point…I am putting everyone at risk."

"No one else thinks you're unwelcome. I want you to stay and I am sure your family wants you to stay."

"He is part of the reason I stayed alone. I had no one that I cared about so he just bothered me. Now I do and it makes him mad…he won't stop till you are all dead. The only way for me to stop this is to go to him and kill him myself…And just because no one else has said anything…I hear their thoughts…not so much from the group, but from everyone else. I do not belong here and never will. Nobody will ever accept me for who I am…they can't deal with it. They assume that just because most of the vampires they have met are evil that they all are…I know some people are trying but it's not enough. I should have realized that I would never fit in…it was just a dream I had…but I cannot have a normal life as long as he exists." She wiped the tears from her eyes and turned to go.

"He threatened someone else didn't he?"

"He was supposed to kill you tonight…instead he got Gildor…I saved him and he is still nasty towards me. He also threatened my sisters…He wants Kaelea for himself which means he will go after Fairin…and he will kill Lia. I cannot let him do this…I must leave… If I go he will follow and everyone will be safe."

"Stefan has been a danger even without your presence. He was most likely the one who killed Galarin."

"Yes but he is more of a danger now. I am not allowed to love, or have family. He wants me isolated so that I have no one else but him to go to."

"You shouldn't give him what he wants…and I don't want you to leave."

She turned to face him slowly. "Why are you willing to die for me? I'm not worth it."

"You are the one I love. That makes you worth it…but I have no intention of dying."

"Tell that to him."

"I will if I ever have a conversation with him."

"He is strong. I don't think you would be able to best him in a battle…"

"Well…I still don't think you should leave. We all need to stick together right now."

She bowed her head. "But how can I? He is making it impossible for me to be happy…that's all I want is happiness…and now I have to worry about everyone I love…I can't bear to lose you…or my sister's. I would end my existence on this planet…I would rather know everyone is safe then me be here and put you all in danger…it happened with Alex and it is happening again."

"We are in danger anyway. No one is safe during a war. That's why we all need to stick together right now. And only one person thinks that you're not welcome."

"No but they used to…and if they knew that I had to feed at least once a week they would change their opinion."

"Do you think anyone minds having Angel here?"

"Maybe at first but he brought them their savor so how could they possibly feel any ill will towards him."

"So did you. You traveled here from Earth with us. And you are one of their enchanted ones. To some of them you are one of their saviors."

"I can't even save myself…I don't know how they expect me to save them."

"But you have saved people. You saved Calyna during the battle almost at the cost of your own life. And you even saved Gildor, twice, however ungrateful he may be. I wouldn't have known where to look or even to look if it hadn't been for you."

"Yes, but that was different…I saved Calyna because it was war and you have to stay alive by any means necessary…Gildor…well this time because it was Stefan…I felt responsible."

"Is there anything I can say to convince you to stay here?"

"Stay here for how long?"

"At least until we have made progress with war. And truthfully I don't want you to leave at all. But I understand that you cannot leave him out there. I know you will have to deal with him eventually. But when you go I might just have to ask you to promise you will return."

She smiled. "I may be able to do that…I am going to go and see if I can talk to him and see if I can postpone him bothering everyone…I will be back. I promise."

"Alright I guess I can allow you that compromise." He smiled after he stated that in a teasing manner.

"Where may I find you on my return?"

"I will be either in the Inn or taking my shift in warding the city."

"I will look out for you then."

~*~

Lia was unable to sleep so she decided to go for a walk. Stefan was on his way back to his hideout when he spotted her. A grin smeared over his lips.

"Well…if it isn't the sister." He said to himself.

Lia stopped and began to look around. Was someone out there? Stefan stepped out into the open.

Lia was scared but she tried to act as her sisters would. "What…do you want?" It sounded confidant but if it was listened to carefully a tremor could be detected.

"To send a message to your sister." He grabbed her arm.

She began to struggle and tried to pry from his grip.

"That won't work." His fangs protruded from his mouth, so that she was able to see the tips. "No preliminaries this time." He pulled her closer, and leaned down. He sank his teeth into her neck forcefully and began to drink. She whimpered.

Karia felt a sting in her neck. "Lia!" She began to run until she came across Stefan and Lia. "Let her go."

He stopped. "What will you give me if I let her go?"

She swallowed. "I will give you what you want." She said hesitantly and quietly.

"You mean you will come with me?"

"Yes." She sounded defeated. "Enough is enough. I have had 6 years of this and I can't take it anymore. Let her go."

"Well, then let us be off." He held out a hand to her, leaving Lia unconscious on the ground. Karia walked over to him and he led her to his hideout. They walked for quite sometime and the city was behind them. They finally stopped at an abandoned manor. He led her to the main room, furnished as a comfortable living room, decorated in different shades of red and black.

"Homey." She stated sarcastically.

"Yes. I chose the colors myself. This has been my lair for some time…whenever I need to get away from LA." He scrutinized her. "Hmm…I believe you should change into something more appropriate. I have a chamber prepared for you. There will be outfits that will fit you."

"Which way?"

"Up the stairs, first door on the left."

She nodded and made her way up the stairs while Stefan went off to prepare. When she got up stairs she noticed that most of the outfits were red and very showy. She dressed in a two piece with slitted sleeves, and a skirt with slits up her thighs. She pulled her hair back in a braid and tied weaved a red ribbon in it, strands falling around her face. She sat on the edge of the bed and tried to muster the courage to kill him.

~*~

Luthan sat up, his eyes wide. He grabbed his staff and cloak and went outside. He found Lia outside by the river. She was pale and unconscious. He looked her over…two bite marks on her neck. He picked her up and walked back to the inn. He laid her down on the conference table and rang the bell to get the others up. They came down quickly and took there places… their eyes wide as they walked in.

"Is she… dead?"

"No…Dakkon she is very much alive."

He looked around. He saw Angel. "Where's the other one?"

"Who?"

"Karia."

"In order to save her she had to leave."

"What are you talking about? She couldn't pull herself away from her neck?!"

Angel stood up. "We all know that is not who did this."

"Do we?" Gildor asked.

"Yes, we do. She would never harm her own sister, especially her twin." He defended.

"Is your kind even capable of that kind of bond?"

"Yes, most of us are."

"We must find the man who did this…" Faedra stated as she looked down at her daughter.

"Man? Who said it was a man?" Legolas asked.

"I saw it."

"Yes, well your visions could be skewed." Dakkon answered.

"They are no such thing and how dare you say such a thing."

Luthan put up a hand. "Before we continue to accuse the innocent…let me tell you what really happened."

"Who says she's innocent?" Gildor asked.

"She wouldn't do this. It was probably Stefan again."

"It was." Luthan answered. "Karia went with him to save her sister…he has always wanted her and now he has her…she will keep him busy so that no one dies and then she will find the right time to kill him."

"Kill him? Or just create an illusion like Kane created the illusion of killing Dantor?"

"She doesn't have the power for that. Just because you had a bad experience with a vampire doesn't mean you can take it out on Karia. She is sacrificing her happiness for everyone's safety."

"Unless this was planned all along."

"She is good…this was not planned…she would never betray me or anyone else for that matter." Angel defended again.

"Sure she wouldn't. Maybe you're just saying that too….your a cursed one too after all."

"Gildor…come here." After a moment he walked over and pulled Gildor out of his chair. "I said come here." He pulled him to the front of the room, closed his eyes and placed a hand on Gildor's shoulder. Immediately images transferred to him. After several minutes Luthan pulled back. "Now you know how she feels."

"Woah." He whispered.

"Now sit down and keep your mouth shut." He sat down and Isethia put a hand on his arm, trying to comfort him. After the meeting, Lia was placed in her room, Faedra watching over her, occasionally Dakkon came in to watch over her so that Faedra could rest.

~*~

Stefan climbed up the stairs and walked into her chambers. She looked up at him, a solemn look on her face.

"Well…I see you found an appropriate outfit. You look very good in that color and style."

"Well…I didn't have much of a choice."

"Do you mean about what to wear or about being here?"

"Both."

"If I recall correctly you came here willingly."

"And if I recall, if I didn't you would have killed my sister."

"Yes…well…I'm a vampire, that's the kind of thing I do."

She stood. "Just what exactly did I do to you? I mean why do you want me so much?"

"Well…you were the one I chose to be my consort."

"But…why me? Why am I so special?"

"You're very…unique, captivating."

She looked down to the floor. "I don't understand. How am I unique?"

"You just are."

"Oh, yeah I can see how a street rat can be captivating." She sat back down on the bed.

"Yes…well…it was after you were turned that it really became apparent."

"Ah, yes. The whole cleaned up look."

Stefan closed the distant, and forced her to look up at him, by placing a finger under her chin and lifting it up. He stared at her for some time until it became intense. "Might as well get used to being here. You did agree to come with me after all. And now, I would enjoy your company down stairs."

She looked away and nodded as she stood slowly. "I am used to it. And yes…I did agree."

He held his arm out to her. She took it, hesitantly and they walked down the stairs together. They entered his chambers and spent the night together. Afterwards she pulled herself out of bed and went out to the living room. She sat down on the couch and began to sob quietly.

~*~

A few days passed and Dakkon had just released Faedra from her shift. The poor woman was running herself ragged. She said a simple goodnight before letting herself out. He saw she was still asleep so he went downstairs to get a drink.

Lia opened her eyes and looked around. She was alone. She could sense that her sister wasn't here, sense her misery…and sadness…she had to get to her. She eased herself into a sitting position and then swung her legs over the side of the bed. She eased herself up slowly. She was dizzy. She rested a hand onto the furniture until she got to the door. She placed a hand on the wall and went down the hall. She eased down the stairs.

"Lia?" Dakkon asked as he saw her waiver. He put his drink down and ran over to her, catching her just as she began to fall, as she lost consciousness again. He carried her upstairs and put her back into bed. He sat down in the chair and continued to watch over her for the remainder of the night.

~*~

Vanidor couldn't sleep and decided to go for a walk. It had been almost a week since Karia left and she still had not returned. Worry was consuming him. Was she okay? Was she hurt? Would she be back soon?

Fairin walked outside and stretched a bit. This was the first time he had been away from Kaelea since she passed out. He saw Vanidor walking and decided to join him for a bit. Vanidor noticed someone walking towards him. He turned and saw Fairin approaching.

"Fairin?"

"You say that like your surprised or something?"

"Well…you've been with Kaelea for almost a week now."

"Yeah. I was-kind of forced to take a break."

"You care about her that much?"

"Yes. And you care about her sister the same way, don't you?"

"Uh…how did you figure that out?"

"It's been obvious since we were on the rescue mission. You couldn't bear to have her out of your sight for a minute." He teased, as he attempted to lighten things up. "And, I know you have been fighting with your brother because of her." He said more seriously.

"How do you know that?"

"My sister told me."

"Oh. What exactly…did she tell you?"

"That your brother has the wrong idea about Karia, which was obvious during the meeting. Although, he does know the truth now. And he probably regrets what he said."

"If he does, why hasn't he apologized?"

"I don't know."

"I'm not speaking to him until he takes back everything he said about her."

"Is that a good idea? I mean we can't afford to let arguments get between us right now."

"Yes, well he had no right to say those things. And now I don't even know if she's safe. Do you think she'll ever come back?"

"I don't know. For the sake of her sister's I hope so."

"How's Kaelea doing anyway?"

"She's still pretty weak. She's been in and out of consciousness. I don't think she knows what's going on."

"What does that mean?"

"Well…I don't think she knows that Karia is gone…I think she suspects…but I don't think she knows about Lia. She asks about them every time she wakes and I have no idea how to tell her."

"Do yo-do you intend to tell her?"

"I don't know. How do I tell her that…both of her sisters are in danger?"

"Well…someone might have to tell her eventually."

"Yes, but I want to put it off for as long as possible…until she's stronger."

"That-might be best."

~*~

Kaelea opened her eyes, and looked around. Luthan was sitting down in front of her. "Where's F-"

"Shhh…"

She tried to sit up but did so unsuccessfully.

"I sent him on a walk…he needed a little break. He hasn't left your side."

She smiled weakly. "And what about L-"

"She's resting as well…she had an encounter with Stefan and is lucky to be alive. When you are well enough… I will take you to see her…but I think she may be well enough before you."

"And Karia?"

Luthan looked down not sure how to tell her this. "She is in the devil's clutches…she went with Stefan to save Lia's life and she hasn't returned yet…only she can kill him…she must do this alone."

"She alive?"

Luthan nodded. "Yes, but her spirit is weak and she is very miserable. I think it has to do with your and Lia's conditions. She also needs to feed."

"How-"

"I have no idea. Let's just hope she gets back soon."

"Why?"

"Because your sister's condition depends on it, yours as well."

She began to fight her tired eyes.

"Don't…go to sleep…its okay."

She nodded and closed her eyes again, returning to a deep slumber.

~*~

"Lia you have to drink something." Faedra told her as she held a glass of water to her lips.

She turned her head away.

"Lia, please…"

"No."

Faedra sighed and put the glass down. "Why not?"

"I can't…"

"Lia…if I tell you where Karia is will you drink for me?"

"When Karia eats I will."

"What are you talking about?"

"She's…not…eating."

"Well, maybe if you drink she will."

"No…" She stated a bit uncertainly.

"Fine. I will leave it here and you can drink it when you are ready." She stood and headed for the door. Dakkon passed her on the way in. "See if you can get her to drink." She told him as she left.

~*~

Karia looked out the window to see Stefan returning with a few victims. She stayed at the window, she knew her sister was refusing food. :Lia, you must eat…I need you to regain your strength for when I return…please.:

Stefan entered the room and threw them on the floor. "I've brought dinner back for us."

"I'm not hungry." She told him with her gaze remaining out the window.

He walked over to her and turned her around. "You will do as I tell you."

"How can I eat when I am not hungry?"

"I know that you need to. Now do as I say."

She turned back to the window without saying a word.

He turned her around again. "You-will-do as I tell you."

She looked over to the people on the floor. "Are they dead or just unconscious?"

"Does it matter?"

"Yes."

"What do you want me to kill one for you first?"

She shook her head.

"Then just do as I tell you."

"I have given you everything you wanted from me without complaint, why can I not have my request."

"Because it is a foolish request."

Her thoughts went back to Lia…and she knew she had to eat…She walked over and pulled one of them up. Her fangs extended and she pierced there skin and began to feed. Stefan walked over and did the same. As soon as she was done she dropped the corpse and walked back over to the window…the color returning to her skin. If she ever detested anything it would be killing to survive.

After he finished feeding he walked to the window. "What is it with you and that window?"

"I don't know. I guess it gives me something to do."

"Well…if you would like something to do, maybe we should adjourn to my chamber."

"I'm a bit worn out. I think I will just go to bed."

"I will see you later then."

"Yes, I am sure you will be there when I wake."

"Less than a week and you already know me that well."

"It's kind of hard not to know you. We do the same thing every day."

"Well I guess I'm just a creature of habit. I will see you tonight…my bride."

She shivered. "My name will suit just fine."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"Yes, please do." She turned and walked towards the stairs.

~*~

:Lia, you must eat…I need you to regain your strength for when I return…please.: She heard her sister's voice in her head.

"Karia?"

Dakkon looked at her. "Did she contact you?"

"Yes."

"What did she say?"

"She…" She suddenly got the urge to eat again…and new Karia was feeding. She grabbed for the water and began to drink. Dakkon placed a hand under the glass and helped her to do so. After she finished the water she looked at the soup on the table beside her.

"Hungry?"

"Yes. A little."

He smiled and grabbed the soup off of the table and began to feed it to her. She ate it all.

She felt herself get sleepy; she eased herself down and fell fast asleep.

~*~

Gildor and Isethia were in their room and they just awakened for the day. They have been talking for awhile when the subject was suddenly changed.

"Have you talked to your brother lately?"

"No. And I don't really want to have this conversation."

"You should at least talk to him."

"I don't think he wants to talk. I've gotten the impression the few times I've seen him that he is pretty angry."

"He has a reason to be."

"I guess. I shouldn't have said those things about her."

"Well…you didn't know all the stuff you know about her know. But you should have at least known that she wouldn't have attacked her sister."

"I don't see how I could've known that just by knowing that their related."

"Because she wouldn't hurt her twin."

"No. I know that now."

"They need each other you know."

"Yes, well their seem to be a lot of people who need her to come back."

"Yes." She changed the subject again and they returned to their morning routine.

~*~

Karia was lying in bed wide awake, facing the wall. She heard her chamber door open. Stefan entered. He removed his robe and settled in beside her.

"A little late aren't you?" She said softly.

"I had some business to attend to. I do work after all."

"I don't know if what you do could be considered work." She stated coldly.

"Actually, this time…I was um looking over the recent financial statements of the Crimson Sin."

"Ah, your notorious night club."

"Yes. It is currently in the capable hands of my…bouncer."

"I wouldn't call him capable."

"Well he runs the club okay. By the way, we will be making a short trip to Earth next week. I need to check in and I am expecting company."

"Oh, how wonderful. Who is it? Dru and Spike?"

"Well, there about all that is left of the family, except for the two of us. Everyone else has either been staked or become weak."

"In your opinion. Do you consider me weak? I am good after all."

"We might have to change that."

"And just how are you planning on doing that?"

"Well…it might take some time…but then I have all the time I need. In fact…maybe it's time the entire family banded together, since Angelus no longer has any use for us."

"I don't see why…they are all incompetent."

"Hmm…well they have both killed slayers."

"Yes, but most of them weren't very strong. Neither of them have managed to kill Buffy yet. They can't even handle one teenage girl."

"Yes unlike most slayers, she isn't just a slayer, she is a slayer with a group of friends."

"That intimidates you, doesn't it?"

"Not really. Maybe once we get the family together, all 5 of us…we can go after her as a family outing."

"Three of you. You can count me out."

"Funny that still leaves four."

"And whom am I forgetting?"

"If you know me so well you would know about my year mate."

"Ah yes the one who went good…Good luck."

"Yes, well he might be easier than you. We did spend about ten years together."

"Anyone is easier than me. I'm not easy."

"Yes, and I love a challenge."

"Yes, I'm sure."

"Well, as long as we're both awake…we may as well do something else to pass the time, other than this lovely banter."

"Can't you ever think of something else?"

"What do you think I've been doing? But in the end I have a one track mind."

"Yes, well I am not in the mood."

"We'll have to see if we can remedy that."

"And how do you plan on doing that?"

He brought his hand to her arm and turned her around.

"I am not playing this game tonight Stefan. I said no."

He pushed her down on the bed. "You are my bride, and will do what I tell you."

"Get off of me." She began to struggle as he sat on top of her.

He smacked he across the face. She brought a hand to her face.

"You slapped me."

"Well, you didn't do as I told you."

She pushed him off and ran out of the room. He sighed, got up and went after her.

After he finished his nightly ritual he laid down on the cold floor beside her. She was bruised and sore and wished him dead. She looked around and saw a wooden chair. She crawled over and broke the bottom of it off. She crawled back and kneeled in front of him. She raised the stake. He opened his eyes and saw her above him, holding a stake. As it came down he caught her hands and stopped her. She pushed harder.

"Die you son of a bitch!"

He struggled and they were about evenly matched. They rolled on the floor, the past 6 years surfaced in her mind, her anger grew.

"I warned you, and now I am going to follow through. She pushed the stake upward and thrust it into his chest. His eyes widened. He reached out a hand and wrapped it around her throat. She pushed it in even harder, he fell limp. She pushed him off of her and spat on his corpse. A breeze swept through and eventually there was nothing left of his body but a pile of dust.

She stepped over it and walked out, she turned and set fire to the house by tipping over a lantern. He would never hurt her or anyone else again. She turned and walked away as the house lit up a blaze.

After walking for what seemed like days, but was merely hours, she reached the gate. The guards looked at her and immediately recognized her. They ran to her aid. She shrugged them off as she walked into the city.

She kept walking until she reached the inn. She walked up the stairs and into Lia's room. Dakkon saw her and immediately rushed to her side.

"Are you okay?" She ignored him and walked over to her sleeping sister. She held out a hand and closed her eyes. Transferring what energy she could muster into her twins healing body. Before her sister could see her in her bloodied state she turned and walked out. Lia opened her eyes in time to see her sister's fleeting form.

She walked into Kaelea's room, Fairin looked up at her. "Oh my god, are you alright?"

She ignored him and walked over to her sister. She rested a hand on her and again transferred energy to her sister's body. When she finished she made her way out, using the wall to steady her.

Vanidor opened his door and saw Karia walking down the stairs; she fell and leaned up against the wall before she attempted to stand again. He walked over and picked her up. She was battered and bloody. He carried her to the bedroom and placed her on the bed. He held out his hands and tried to heal what he could. She lost consciousness as he did so.