Octavia

“Octavia, Time to get up for school”, my mom called. I groaned into my sheets ugh “5 more minute’s mom!” I yelled in return. I heard her laugh and walk away. I hated mornings they always come to quickly and last to short. I wanted to stay wrapped in my goose down blanket. It was warm and I felt safe. I sighed I knew if I didn’t get up my mom would come back and practically drag me out of bed by my feet with as much enthusiasm as a sloth I got up, “Man, I got to pee” I thought to myself as I made my way across the hall into the bathroom. Our house wasn’t a huge one, it was cozy and cute like a little fairytale cottage. One bathroom two bedroom all so close together the doors almost touched. I didn’t mind living in this house I loved it. Big houses scared me, and you never knew what could be in them. After I did my business I went back to my room, a smile creeped onto my face my mom laid out my cloths for me she is so sweet a little erratic and hairbrained but sweet. I got dressed and sat at my vanity to do my hair and makeup for the day. I stared into my reflection. A girl with jet black hair pale skin and violet eyes started back at me I was different. I had to hide my true eye color I couldn’t risk anyone finding out, I loved my eyes and I hated hiding them, with less enthusiasm as a cow being led to slaughter, I reached for the lens case. Muddy brown ugh it was the only color that hid my eyes I hated them they felt weird and made my eyes itch. I put them in and started working on my hair. Long and shiny likes a ravens wing I decided to just brush it and leave it down I didn’t feel up to messing with it today. I dotted on some come here boys red lip gloss that gave the color of blood red to my lips. I glanced one more time into the mirror before getting up to get dressed. I walked over to my bed and grabbed my hip hugger jeans I smiled these where the ones that made my butt look amazing if I do say so for myself. I put them on along with a lacy black thing and matching bra. The shirt that was on my bed looked new puzzled I grabbed it and walked out of my room I could see my mom bustling about in the kitchen I waled down the tiny hall into it. “Hey mom?”, she turned and looked at me “yes dear?” Hey brown doe like eyes staring at me “Umm I was just wondering is this shirt new?” I held it up Her face flickered I didn’t recognize the look it happened so quickly, but I knew something was up “Oh yes, I got that for you and would love to see you wear it today” she said turning her back on me. She knew if she looked at me, I would be able to sense something was up. “Mom”, “look at me” Her body stiffened I knew she was trying to prepare to block me she never could, slowly she turned around. The look in her eyes almost made me take a step back. Was that fear? I decided to drop it, I walked up to her and gave her a hug. “Thanks mommy I love it.” She relaxed. “You’re welcome, dear now hurry up and finish getting dressed or you will be late.” She said with a smile on her face. “Ok mom” I said and went back to my room. I put the shirt down on the bed and looked at it. It was made of a silky Black material that had little silver beads around the chest area shaped into a butterfly. It was beautiful I had to admit. I was a little scared it wouldn’t fit over my boobs. They weren’t small or huge either but for a 17-year-old they were big. I took the shirt and gasped at how it felt when I out it on. It was so light and silky It kind of felt like I stepped into a cloud, and it wrapped itself around my body. It took me a moment to determine that it was my imagination, it was a shirt for goddess’s sake. I turned to my mirror and was stunned it fit perfectly almost like the shirt knew where to curve to match my body I shivered, and I shook the feeling off and grabbed my shoes. They where my favorite pair. Little ballet flats that sparkle. Once I finished getting dressed, I grabbed my phone form the charger and smiled. My best friend apparently has been blowing up my phone Man does that girl ever sleep. I put the phone in my purse and walked out into the kitchen again. Mom made me a sausage and egg breakfast sandwich. “Hey mom got to run Kayla Is freaking out right now.” My mom chuckled, “when isn’t she?” She asked with amusement in her eyes. I laughed grabbed my sandwich and kissed her on the head. Bye mom Ill see you after school I love you. “I love you too Octavia”, my mom said. I turned to the door and opened it. It was a bight and sunny day I loved the sun, if it hit my hair just right, you could see streaks of dark purple. I made my way down the street towards Kayla’s house. I read her messages while walking. “O, you won’t believe what happened at Tyler’s party last night! It was a shame you weren’t there.” “No, seriously are you mad at me because I went? Text me ASAP!” “OCTAVIA ROSE HALLOWAY YOU ANSWER ME THIS MINUTE!” Uh-oh she used my whole name she must be mad, I texted her back quickly “K calm down I am fine I fell asleep early now get your cute butt outside ill be there in 2” I put the phone back into my purse and focused on my food. I didn’t notice something was following me until it was almost too late. I turned around almost falling. I gasped that was the last thing I remembered.

Chapter Two

When I came to, I was in an unfamiliar room. It was huge! My instincts kicked in and I got ready for any kind of attack. I looked around trying to find a way to escape. The walls were covered in gold scrip I couldn’t make out. The room was a perfect circle and the floors where shiny marble. I got up from the bed I was on and looked at it. It was a queen size bed that was royal looking. Almost like I was in a “Oh Crap!” I said to myself. I knew where I was. The castle of Lord Dev. He was the leader of our kind. He was tall kind of handsome but mean from what I have been told. “What am I doing here?” I thought. I haven’t broken any rules. I wear contacts to over my eyes I never use my powers so what could he possibly want? I paced the rooms for what felt like hours. Running my hands along the walls to see if I can find a hidden passageway. “Damn!” Nothing. I went to my purse to call my mom to see if she knew what was going on, my phone was missing “Of course” I sighed. Well, If I am going to be a prisoner, I am not making it easy. I took a stance at the door which was locked and waited. A few moments later I heard footsteps. I tensed my body ready. The door opened “One, Two, three” I counted to myself as soon as the door was side enough, I sprang into action. Hands at the ready I reached for the person standing in my way of freedom. I grabbed him, we tumbled to the ground, confused I looked at him why is he still conscious I had enough voltage to out down a giant, He smiled at me. “Princess it will take a lot more than that to take me down. Now why don’t you just sit, and I will explain what is going on. “Princess? My name is” I didn’t get to finish. “I know who you are Princess Octavia, I have been waiting for you.” WTF why did he keep calling me princess I want a member of the royal family by any means. Sure, my mom was friendly with them but…. Then it hit me. My father was someone My mom met at royal court, she never told me much about him only that I had the same eyes. I looked up at the stranger A wave of nausea came over me, he had my eyes. I passed out once more not before I heard him say Welcome home daughter. What felt like hours I woke up again? The stranger was still sitting with me. Welcome back to the land of the living Octavia, now are you going to try and attack me again or would you like to know what is going on? He looked amused Debating in my head if it was worth it or not, I said Depends are you going to tell me why I am here and more to the point on why we have the same eye color and why you said daughter! I shouted at him. He laughed you do have your mothers fire Ill give you that. The mention of my mother lit a new fire in me “DO NOT TALK ABOUT MY MOM!” I shouted as I ran to the door. Before I could reach it slammed closed and locked. “Octavia please dear come and sit.” I heard him say, I turned around I looked at him and studied his face. He had my eyes and same hair color. His skin was a little tanner than mine. He had a scar under his right eye that was shaped like a I gasped it was shaped like a butterfly! He noticed me looking and smiled. It isn’t a coincidence you are wearing that symbol he said. It is the symbols of our bloodline. He touched the scar with a tenderness and smiled. OK So are you going to tell me who the hell you are? I asked. I already knew the answer His name was Count Grant He was the head of the coven like the head sure Lord dev was the leader, But Count Grant was the one who called all the shots. We live by his rules and if we don’t Death. “I think you already know who I am Octavia” He said, “Now do you want me to tell you why I had you brought here or not? I sagged my shoulders in defeat it was pointless to try and keep fighting I wasn’t going anywhere. I waled over to the empty chair next to the count and looked at him. Fine, tell me why I am here? I asked, He looked me over once and said Octavia the reason I had you brought here is because well one my daughter, “NO” I interrupted him, I am not you had nothing to do with me for 17 years! My mom raised me I am not your daughter!” I shouted. He flinched with the power that came out of my anger. “That proves right there that you are my daughter, he said No one else except those in our bloodline have the power to push their power out of their body using words. He smiled and we have the same eyes. I immediately said My eyes are brown, oh really are they know he looked amused. He handed me a mirror and when I looked at its A girl with violet eyes and jet-black hair was staring back at me. What? I gasped Where are they!

You won’t be needing them anymore Octavia You are not leaving this castle. That pushed me over the edge with that I jumped up and pushed all my power out of me I yelled a war cry and lunged at him. SLAM It felt like I slammed into a brick wall pain screaming at me I ignored it and kept pushing. “OCTAVIA STOP THIS AT ONCE THAT IS A COMMAND!” With those words my power came back into me, and I slumped. If we get commanded by any leader, we have no choice but to submit. “Now Octavia let me explain why, there are people out there who want to hurt you. You come from a very long line or powerful witches, and you have royal blood which makes you a target. You need to stay here for your safety. Your mother reached out to me and Told me you would be 18 soon.” I stiffened there was only one reason that age mattered in the royal family, When I turned 18, I would be married. “NO” I shouted again you’re not selling me like a common whore! I will not get married I will Leave I AM GOING HOME!” I looked him into the eye with all my might trying to make him submit. It was pointless I signed and walked over to the window. I looked out over a great lake that was sparkling like diamonds in the sun “Will I ever see me mom again?” I asked. “Of course, you will dear you think I would ever let you leave me?” I spun around my mom must have walked in and I didn’t hear her. “MOMMY!” I shouted as I ran over to her. “Oh, Octavia I am so sorry I didn’t tell you sooner, this is for your protection baby” At that moment I didn’t care I was glad to see my mom. I held her close to me, “Its ok mom, I love you” I said breathing her in. We stood there for hours.

Chapter Three

This is all heartwarming, but we need to get down to business I heard Count Grant say. I let my mom go and shot him a look of disgust. Fine and who do you think I’m going to open my legs to? “Octavia!” my mom gasped. I looked at her she was acting shocked, but I saw the amusement in her eyes. Well hopefully you haven’t already he said. Mistake on his part my mom came to my rescue like a lioness protecting her cub. “Grant just because you and I had a wonderful night 17 years ago does not mean you can talk to my daughter like that!” Shit she addressed him as grant. Shit, I readied myself to protect my mom. You couldn’t address anyone without a title when at court. I looked over at the count and he has a glint of amusement in his eyes. Was he smiling? Emily dear I was just making sure she knew the laws that’s all. He walked over to her. I missed you Emily we need to talk later but first I must prepare her he looked over at me. Prepare me for that? I asked? My mom took my hand. Sweetie You are to marry Lord Dev. “What!?” I never met the guy, and you want me to marry him I thought. I stayed silent for a moment. “Lord Dev?” I asked, “Why in god’s name do you want me to marry him? I asked. “My mom looked over at the count, “I think it is better if you told her Grant my mom said” Count Grant looked at me, “Octavia you are to marry lord Dev because the life of our coven depends on it.”

Every 100 years the coven marries into bloodlines. It is what keeps our powers from dying. He explained. It has been 100 years since the last union, and you are the only child born or royal blood that is special enough. “What do you mean special enough? All of the royals have had kids marry one of them off!” I said, “Octavia,” my mother started, “Honey just listen to your father please.” I sighed “Fine go on.” I said with out looking at him. “Octavia, there is a reason we have violet eyes.” He saw me start opening my mouth to say something, he hurried on” Yes a lot of the royal family has them I know but not all have the mark.” Confused I looked at him “Mark what mark? I don’t have any marks sorry to disappoint I guess you have to find another Princess I spat the word. “My mom tensed next me to. “I looked at her: What mom?” Octavia hunny I was going to tell you on your 18th Birthday I didn’t want to hide it, but your father thought best, and I wanted you to have as normal of a life as possible so did he. She Looked over at him fondly he returned the look.” Get a room you two I think I’m going to be sick I said. They both laughed. I rounded on my mom with so much speed she took a step back. I could feel the heat building and I knew my eyes where changing she saw it to. “Octavia please jut listen she said as she took a step back. We wanted to protect you.” The heat was growing, “what mark mother!” I shouted flames started to lick my skin this had only happened once before I was three and I wanted a toy. My mom told me no and I threw a fit and almost set the house on fire. “OCTAVIA! RELEASE NOW! I COMMAND YOU!” The flames disappeared but the anger was still there I barley noticed. “Mom what mark!” With a sigh she took her hand and held it under my right eye on my cheek. A wave of icy cold rushed over me. She handed me the mirror that was near her. I looked in it and gasped. There was a golden butterfly under my eye. It shined so bright I reached up and touched it. When I touched it, I felt like I was falling backwards in time. “Emily, we have to hide her!” My father said in a panic he looked at a baby in a crib with bight violet eyes and a golden butterfly under her eye. “If they find out she has that they will kill all of us! We must hide her now!” he said in a whisper panic. My mom looked at him with her doe brown eyes and nodded. She put her hand over the babies face and with a flask of bright white light the mark was gone. “Grant what are we going to do!?” I don’t want to leave you, but you know what will happen if your father finds out we had a child before marriage he will kill me and Octavia.” The count looked at my mother and kissed her. “You and Octavia have to leave. My parents don’t know you where with child they haven’t seen you in a year you need to leave and take her with you. I will secure you a house in town Change your name and hers You can’t go by the name of Roman anymore It has to be changed they can’t find you.” He spoke. My mother started to cry and with that I got pulled back into reality. I didn’t notice they were shouting my name “OCTAVIA!” I blinked and looked at them. What? I asked they had a look of horror on their face. Octavia, you must tell me what happened right now Count grant said. I looked at him then to my mother who was white as a sheet. You can trust your father she said. I looked back at him he was worried about me. Maybe my mom? “When I touched the mark, I saw it. I said I saw my mom take it away and I saw you send us away. My true name is Octavia Rose Roman.” I spoke

“Yes, that is your name” I heard him say he still had the look of horror on his face. You must now go by that name; I know this is a lot but lease Octavia this is imperative. He spoke. “What about your father?” I asked, “don’t you need me to stay in hiding, I mean that’s why you kicked my mom to the curb and me.” I said with hurt in my eyes. He mirrored the same hurt. “Octavia he is dead.” He spoke. You don’t need to hide anymore that’s why I brought you here. You are to be the Lady of our coven. You have special gifts You can control fire lightning and people’s moods and emotions. You are special.” He touched my mark. When he touched it, I felt fear regret and love? I pulled away He looked confused. “Can I talk to my mom alone?” I asked. Of course, This door will no longer be locked Oh and if you want to change anything in the room you may I’ll have the Stewart come in and you can tell him how you want him to redecorate it. I looked confused Octavia this is your new room. He said with that he handed me a golden key with diamonds on the top in a butterfly shape and walked out. I turned to my mom, she looked worried and scared. I immediately knew it was because of my lack of self-control. “Mom?” I said hastily “I’m not going to hurt you I am sorry I said tears escaping my eyes. “Oh, Octavia she said and took me in her arms. We sat there while she stocked my hair, she didn’t push me to talk I knew she was letting me think thigs over. She pulled away and looked at me. “Octavia, I know your angry, I don’t blame you” she said, “we did what we thought best We love you so much.” I laughed at that “mom he doesn’t even know me. How could he love me? I saw something in her eyes. “Mom what else aren’t you telling me?” I asked. “later” she said. “You have had enough thrown at you for one day.” “No, mom what else haven’t you told me?” I asked again this time more forcefully.

Chapter 4

“Octavia” she begged. I looked straight into her eyes. She was fighting me, but I knew I would Win. “I will find out you know that I said in a low voice. I could look into your mind, or you can tell me willing.” I stated I hated using my powers on her, but she was holding something back and I wanted to know what it was. She adverted her eyes, and her shoulders sank in defeat. “Octavia your father has always been in your life.” He has been watching over you at school and always had someone watch over you.” She spoke. “At school?” I asked she knew I wouldn’t let this go so she sighed. “Octavia what is your principles name?” me being slow didn’t put two and two together. “Mr. Rom why?” I asked. She looked at me and at that moment I knew. I pictured Mr. Rom. He had Jet black hair like mine but his eyes where blue. “Wait your telling me that the principle is my dad? I asked. She nodded. Octavia he can change his eyes to mask himself. He changed them to blue and covered his mark so he could keep an eye on you. I let this information sink in. Wait all my life the teachers that took an interest in me all had black hair and blue eyes! “Mom, I am only going to ask this once.” I said, “Who else has he been pretending to be?” My mom signed again. “All of your life Octavia he has been there, Your favorite teachers. Well, they were him” she stated. With her mentioning school suddenly “Kayla!” Mom I have to call her she is probably freaking out right now!” My mom giggled OK We will get your phone but first let’s get lunch. My stomach growled I laughed “OK.” I spoke. I followed my mom out of the room we walked down a white marble hall that has the same script that was in my room on the walls, but the letters were silver instead. “Mom?” I asked “Hm” she said. “What does that writing say? On the walls” I asked. She stopped and looked at me with concern, “what writing?” she asked. “On the walls mom” I stated pointing at the wall. She looked at the wall confused. “Octavia there isn’t writing on the walls just flowers in a pattern” she said. Concerned she turned to me “are you feeling ok baby?” She asked, I decided not to get into it with her, so I just played it off. “Yea I think because I am hungry, I am seeing things you know how I get.” We shared a look. And both giggled. We started walking again we turned down another hall with double doors the same writing was on the doors in gold I wasn’t going to say it again. When we opened the doors, I gasped. Sitting at the end of a huge table was Kayla? I looked at my mom and she was smiling. I ran over to Kayla. “OMG what are you doing here? I asked in a panicked voice. No one outside our coven was allowed to know about us. Kayla smiled at me. She was so beautiful She has golden hair that flowed to her butt and her eyes were and emerald, green. Her skin like a porcelain doll and rosy cheeks. If I wasn’t straight, I would have had a huge crush on her. “Hey mars R.” she said to my mom I looked confused. “Honestly O you need to get with the program.” She giggled and motioned for the servants to come over. “Kayla what are you doing here I asked again sitting next to her. “Octavia, you seriously can’t sense it can you?” She asked. She looked at my mark then at my mom. “you said she was special she said playfully to my mom. Give her a minute Kayla she has had a lot to take in today.” My mom said on the verge of laughter. I shot her a look and she smiled and walked out. “Octavia did you really not know?” she asked, “know what?” I asked. I mean sure she was charismatic, and kind and she always seemed to get her way, but I thought that was just her personality. “Kayla Fill me in now” I said not meaning to put power behind my words, but I was getting irritated with everything so far. She flinched “Octavia”, She looked at me Before she could say anything else Lord Dev walked in. “Ah Octavia, I see you met my cousin.” “Cousin?” I said I shot a Kayla we are talking about this later look. “Your majesty I’m sorry I said as I stood to bend in a bow. He waved his hand. “No need for that please call me Devon.” He took his hand to my chin when he touched me, I felt a warmth spread through me. I couldn’t stop myself I looked at his eyes. The world faded and it was just us. We were standing in a field hand and hand there was lighting bugs around us the wind was blowing and we turned to each other, and he kissed me. The world faded back again to the present. I could still feel his lips on mine. He was smiling. I took a step back “Kayla was smiling as well. “Well cousin I guess you have your soulmate” she said with amusement in her voice. I shot her a look that said are you crazy? She started to laugh that’s when I saw it. I never noticed it before on her cheek under her left eye there was a Celtic knot. I looked back at Lord Dev, and he had the same mark. He was laughing with her. I sat down weak. I figured I looked paler than normal because he rushed to my side.” Are you ok princess?” he asked. I looked at him. “I’m fine Lor I stopped myself, Devon I think I just need to eat” I lied. He didn’t seem like he believed me, but he agreed “Ill let you ladies catch up.” He spoke. With that he exited the room. I shot Kayla a look and she was still giggling “what O?” she asked. “Kayla we are so not done this conversation” I said. “Ok, after lunch we will go back to my room and talk” she said. I almost started to say I couldn’t leave but then shut up. She has a room here I figured to myself. Lunch was amazing. We had steak and lobster with garlic mashed potatoes. She didn’t touch the potatoes which I thought was weird. She loved potatoes. “Kayla?” I started. She looked at me and shook her head. “Not here.” She said and got up motioning for me to follow. I followed her out of the room, and we walked down the hall back towards my room. We turned into a hall. The first door on the left she opened. I followed her into the room not noticing anything I was lost in thought. “Octavia?” she said that’s when I looked up. “Hm?” I asked Then I noticed it. The room was dark with black curtains drawn and the floor was a red marble. I scanned the room and screamed. I started to run to the door. Kayla got there before me. “Octavia, I need you to stop!” she said full command in her voice. My feet planted I tired to run but I couldn’t move.: Kayla let me go” I said through my teeth. “NO” she said. I need you to understand please I am still the person you know I am still your best friend!” I looked at her really looked at her. There where rings of red around her green eyes. Please O she said. “Kayla, I said once more She sighed and released the command. I turned to the door but stopped. I could feel the fear and sadness coming from her. I took my hand off the handle and turned. She was standing in front of a coffin. “Kayla please tell me this is a joke: I said. I saw all the signs, but I figured she might be playing a trick on me. “Octavia please just listen” she begged. She motioned to chairs to sit. I looked at her she still looked the same except the red around her eyes. My body told me to run they were our enemies. They wanted to destroy us our blood called to them. We were their favorite food source. “Fine you have five minutes to explain what is going on Kayla.” I spoke. She looked relived. I walked over to the chairs with her. We sat down. “Octavia I was born like this” she said. My father is a vampire, and my mother is a witch. They fell in love and had me. I still have all the powers, but my diet is a little different.” She said I looked as she motioned to a table that had a glass bottle the looked a lot like blood. I can eat regular food as you know, but I must have blood in my diet to survive. “Does everyone know” I asked She got up and walked over to the bottle. “No, the only ones that know are your mom and dad” she said. When she opened the bottle, I turned away. The smell hit me. It was delicious. Like chocolate seductive I didn’t notice I stood and walked over to her.” I must hide what I am she said. I am very powerful and can cast illusions that’s why I haven’t gotten caught. This room she motioned looks like any others in the place. She spoke. I hide my eyes when we are out in public. The sun bothers me, but I don’t burst in flames as you know. And I don’t have to sleep in a coffin she waved her hand and a bed appeared where the coffin was. I did that for dramatic effect she giggled. I needed you to fully understand and let’s admit it O you’re a little slow. I looked at her. Kayla what is that I asked? Taking a big breath in it made my mouth water. She looked at me confusion in her eyes. Then curiosity. Do you want to try some she asked Before I could stop myself, she handed the glass to me? Studying me I took it and took a sip. Mumm, I moaned it was amazing it tasted like chocolate and cherries. I heard her say I thought so and took the glass away. She waled over to the chair and looked at me with amusement. Rooted on the spot I put two and two together. It was blood. I looked at her in horror she on the other hand had a look of amusement on her face. “I knew you were special Octavia” she said smiling. I walked back over to her and looked confused. “Kayla is that blood?” I asked. She confirmed my fears. Yep! The best kind to. I felt like I was going to be sick. “Octavia, I have a question,” she said. What do you see on the walls? “Huh?” I asked she rolled her eyes. “Look at the walls O what do you see?” she asked again. I looked up and gasped. The same words that I saw in my room and through the castle where not script anymore but now said “Blood is blood. The lifeforce of all. We consume it to live and give it to give life.”

“Kayla what the hell!” She was amused I wanted to smack her. “you’re like me O” she said simply. How is that possible! I asked My mom and dad are both witches! “Octavia thinks for a minute, why do you think you where hidden? Why do you think your mark is gold? Your different” she said. “That isn’t possible” I said she looked at me. “Octavia how much do you know about your family?” She asked.” I know my mom and dad are witches and I know I was hidden from my grandfather, but I don’t know why!” I said, “but you do, don’t you?” I asked her. She smiled that smile she always does when she is hiding something. “Kayla!” I said “Ok, OK” she said she put the glass down. “Follow me” she said. She led me out of her room and back into the main hall. The words now showed bright red and where visible. We walked downstairs and she closed her eyes for a moment. “Kayla what are you doing? I asked “Shah” she said. A door appeared in front of us. She opened it. She let me walk through first. It was a library I never seen so many books before they where all old but still in pristine shape. There where three floors all in a perfect circle. She walked around me to the left. There was a large heavy looking book sitting on a table I walked up to it, and it opened by itself it flipped until it got to the page it was looking for. “The Roman Clan” it read at the top.

Chapter 5

500 BC:

The Roman clan came from Romania. They posses’ powers unlike any others seen before. They bear a golden mark. Their eyes different colors except for one thing in common. They each have a ring of red around them. They are hunters of the night the posses’ powers like us. Except for different. They are special.

1900: Claude and fell in love with a witch by the name of Jack. We urged her not to breed with him as we didn’t know what the outcome would be. She dismissed us and married him. They had a beautiful baby girl Luna. She has the same eyes as her mother and the same mark. A golden butterfly.

1950 Count Grant fell in love with a woman of the name Emily. He is nothing like the rest of his family. We think it was bread out. They are to marry

1955 Grants father put a stop to the wedding saying his sin would not marry a low rank girl. He refused the blessing Grant and Emily ran away

1980 No one had heard from grant. There are search parties out looking for him we fear the most

2000 We found Him! He interested me with information he and Emily had a baby girl she bears the same mark as her ancestors. He fears she may be like them. She doesn’t have red in her eyes they are violet.

2017 She has been found! Count Grant ordered us to bring her here. She will be 18 soon and needs protection. She is different more powerful than anyone in the entire coven. I fear that Count Grants concerns may be real.

I took a step back wait I looked at Kayla “Kayla drop the illusions “she smiled at me I wondered when you were going to catch on, she said. She closed her eyes and then opened them. She had the same mark except it was gold! “Kayla, you mean to tell me that I am the only one who is like this from a line of how many children!” I spoke. She was amused. “O you’re the only girl that has been born into the Roman Clan since Claude an. None of the boys had it we are thinking it has to be a genetic girl thing” I could see her rattling her brain trying to remember scientific terms.

We left the library and went back to my room. The walk was long I didn’t want to talk I had to much stuff going on inside my head. Kayla stopped at the door “you have to invite me in” she said I was confused I was able to walk in just fine. “O you dad put you as the owner of this room I can’t enter unless you tell me to” She looked around her shoulder to make sure no one was in the halls “oh sorry yea come in” she signed and walked in nice room you going to change anything> she asked. “K really talking about decorating right now?” I asked She put her hands up “sorry, sorry” she looked amused. Ok now explain what is happening to me. She sat down on my bed and said, “O I think your parents should tell you the rest” She motioned to the door they were standing there. “Huh” I looked over “how?” I asked. “Kayla sent a message to us saying you would need to talk to us.” My dad said he waled in followed by my mom. “OK” I said I have only one question then I will figure everything else out. “With my help of course” Kayla interjected. I shot her a look that said shut up! Her mouth clamped closed. She started at me not in horror but in wonder. “Sorry!” I said you can talk!” her mouth opened again she burst into laughter. “What is your question, Octavia?” My mother asked, “Kayla said she needs blood to survive right?’ I looked over to Kayla for conformation. She shook her head yes with a smile playing on her lips I ignored it. “My question is Why don’t I need it? I only just tasted it so why is it that K needs it, and I don’t?” I asked My parents shared a look that I could have sworn said We knew this day would come. “Octavia my dear” my dad said. Kayla’s mom knew what she was when she was born. She gave her blood right away at the breast that activated her vampire side. She has had to hide it of course but I have been helping her.” I looked at K she looked like a bobble head I snorted and looked back at my mom. “So, you’re saying if my vampire said is never activated, I won’t need blood?” I asked shocked with the disappointment in my voice. “Yes, but you already had blood remember?” Kayla said, in my room” I looked up at her then I remembered the sweet smell and taste of the red liquid. “So, does this mean I am a vampire now? I asked. Kayla my mom and dad shook their heads “yes Octavia. It was imperative that you activated that side of you, we knew you would trust Kayla, so we left it to her.” My father said. I looked at Kayla she was smiling. “OK” my dad said, “now this has all been sorted it out I have a surprise for Kayla” We both looked at each other. Kayla squealed “A surprise! Mr. Roman you didn’t have to!” He chucked “now that Octavia will be going through the change, we thought it would be best if you were closer to her. He motioned to the door on the far wall. Go one Kayla Its yours. Like little kids on Christmas, we ran to the door. He handed her a golden key with a Celtic knot on it in diamonds. Kayla opened the door the whole wall disappeared. “We/re Roomies!” we said in unison. I heard my mother and father laughing in the background. If you want privacy all you have to say is Shut and the wall will reappear as he said that the wall came back, if you want it open just say Open with that the wall disappeared. We giggled. “This is going to be great!” Kayla said. I agreed. “we will let you girls get settled in” My mom said with amusement. I turned to thank her and my dad. I wish I hadn’t “ewwwww” I said My mom and dad where kissing “gross go gets a room you two!” I spoke. They both laughed and my father whispered to my mother “I don’t think that’s a bad idea Emily. Let’s go” I shuddered Parental sex is not something I want to think about. I turned back to Kayla “so what do you want to do roomie?” I asked. She giggled with mischief in her eyes.: Oh, I can think of a few things. She took my hand and running out the door we went back towards the dinning room. “Kayla? Where are we going?” Shhhh” It’s a surprise!” she giggled. I obeyed and shut up letting her guide me through the castle until we got to the door leading outside. “What I am about to show you can’t tell anyone” she said turning to me. “promise me.” “I promise” I said. She opened the door and the sun felt hotter than normal. I winced “you will get used to it “she said noticing me wince. “that only lasts for the first few days.” She took my hand and lead me out. We ran across the field to a barrack style building. She shot me a grin and opened the door. My breath caught in my cheat “OH MY GOD!” I said “I know right” she said smiling. I have never seen so many hot guys in my life before. “so, this is where they are keeping all the hotties” I asked her She giggled. A man looked up and grinned. “Hey sweet thing I see you brought a friend with you” He said to Kayla. She walked over to him “Now Aspen be nice this is the Princess” she said while stroking his chest. He looked over at me and our eyes locked. I was laying on a bed he was on top of me I could feel his Umm well you know against me and man it felt good. “Octavia, he whispered into my ear Pleasure was sent through my body “Aspen” I moaned as he kissed me his hands where hot against my skin. He said “go ahead you know you want it” I did I could hear it he tilted his head, and I opened my mouth reaching for his neck. My fangs bit into him and a moan escaped us both. He tasted so good, better than the blood I had in Kayla’s room. I drank deeply “kill” It was just a whisper it caught me off guard. I was pulled back into the present. He was still staring at me. Kayla had questions in her eyes. I turned my eyes to the ground “Nice to meet you Aspen” I said. I turned around and ran back to my room. I shouted close! And the wall came back. What just happened? Why did I want to kill that guy Aspen? I could still taste him. I fought everything to stay out No I would not become a monster.

Chapter 6

“Octavia!” I could hear Kayla outside my door. “Octavia let me in!” I couldn’t I didn’t want to admit what just happened. I turned and buried my head in my pillows. “open” I heard from the other side of the wall I muffled a groan. “Octavia what is wrong!” She came rushing over to me concerned. “what happened back there?” I felt her sit down on the bed. “So, I promise I am here to help please tell me.” I turned and looked at her “When I looked at Aspen, I. “understanding came over her. “you saw yourself drinking his blood?” She asked, I shook my head yes. “Oh No! I should have warned you I am so sorry! I keep forgetting your new.” She spoke. “forgetting I’m new?” I asked, “yea most of the new ones can’t control their thirst and go for any open neck they can” she said, “You have had so much control you haven’t even asked for blood!” It hit me. My throat was burning. I moaned in pain into my pillow. “Hold on I heard her say she got up and waled over to her side of the room I could hear glasses and a bottle being opened. She came back and handed me a glass the crystal felt cool in my hand. “here this will help” she said. I sat up and took a sip. The warm blood made the burning sooth. “drink it all” she said, or the thirst will come back sooner. I obeyed. Not that I needed any convincing it tasted wonderful. “hey K?” I spoke. Turning to look at her. “does different blood taste different from one another?” “she smiled “no well yes, Fresh blood straight form the source is a lot better. This is donated blood, so it has been sitting around for a little.” She got serious. “Octavia, you have to promise me you will never ever drink from someone.” “why” I asked. “Octavia if you do” she shuttered “Kayla Why?’ I demanded. ““If you drink from someone you won’t be able to stop. You will kill them and then the transformation begins. You will lose all of your powers and become like the ones who try and kill us.” She spoke. I understood. If I drank from someone, I would be a monster. We stayed in our room the rest of the night. I didn’t want to risk having another vision. Kayla helped me pick out an outfit to do a formal meeting with Devon. “tomorrow is going to be perfect!” she said. I couldn’t break her heart and tell her I wasn’t looking forward to it. “yea K it will be.” I said with as much enthusiasm I could muster. We went to bed I was dreading tomorrow. I tossed and turned the whole night. What was happening to me? I didn’t want to be a vampire. I didn’t want this feeling I wanted my old life back! By morning I barely got any sleep. I woke to Kayla bussing about the room getting ready. “Morning O!” she said, “I am so excited for today!” In her typical K babble. I couldn’t help but grin I loved that girl; she was my best friend closest thing I had to a sister. “Morning K” I said. I got out of bed throat burning and stomach growling. She giggled “Here” she said and handed me a glass with blood drink that before we go get breakfast. It will help, trust me. I did My throat stopped burning and my stomach settled. “OK so what are we going to do with your hair?” She asked. “Oh, I know!” “Ill be right back: she ran from the room. Within 3 minutes, she was followed by a woman who appeared to be in her 30’s “Octavia this is Ruby, she is the stylist that lives here” “Hello.” I said ruby bowed and said: good morning princess” “Octavia” I corrected her “please call me Octavia” “Ruby smiled “Of course Octavia just relax, and I will have you looking your best.” I obeyed and sat back. Letting her expert hands comb through my hair. She put it in a updo that had curls coming down that framed my face. Little pearls clung to the top of my head “for the finishing touch” she produced a tiara. It was beautiful. It was an old style with gold and black diamonds on it. “may I” she asked. I shook my head yes. She pinned it into my hair. “you are so beautiful” I heard a gasp come from the door. I jumped. “Devon! You shouldn’t be here! Get out your big lug!” I heard K say. She was giggling “well cousin I was wondering what was taking you two so long now I know. Beauty can’t be rushed” he said looking straight at me. I smiled. “get out!” K said to him “Ok!” I heard him laugh. “Don’t be long or I’ll be se ending the guards next” “you’re a big dork” Kayla said. Pushing him out. I heard him laughing as he walked away. “He really will send the guards” Kayla said looking at me I understood. “thank you ruby you may go now” Kayla said. Ruby bowed out and left us to it. We got dressed in a hurry I did not want another vision with Aspen or any other guard. We ran to the dining room. Shit Aspen was outside the door. I adverted my eyes and said “good morning” as he opened the door. We walked past him and sat at the table. “Octavia” I heard my name “hm?” I looked up Devon was motioning to a chair next to him. “would you care to sit with me?” I shot a look at Kayla, and she nodded. “sure” I said. I got up and moved to the seat next to him. While breakfast was being served Kayla babbled on and on. Devon and I kept glancing at each other. “why don’t you tell O the surprise you have for her cousin” Kayla said. He smiled. “you mother and my dear cousin here told me you love horses.” I immediately perked up. “yes, I use to have one, but my mom said we couldn’t keep it, so she gave it to a farm.” I missed Persephone she was the most beautiful Arabian horse I have ever seen. Her fur was white and shining like silver and her main and tail matched my black hair. She was such a gentle girl. “I miss her, I wonder if she would remember me.” I said to myself. K was not shaking with laughter. “what K” I asked “Nothing: she sang. I loved this girl, but she was getting on my nerves. “I have a surprise for you after breakfast” Devon said. Fist you will need to change.

Chapter 7

After breakfast I practically ran to our room. I had a feeling it had to do with horses. When I got to my room there was a box on the bed and a note attached to it. “O drink this before you go, trust me K” I opened the box. There was a blood bag and ridding gear. I smiled I was right! I did as the note said and drank the whole thing. I put on the cream-colored ridding gear. It was made of suede. The boots had little butterflies stamped on them. Once done I heard a knock on the door. “Come in!” I said Devon opened the door and looked at me. “It’s suites you well Princess” he said. I blushed “I love them thank you” I said walking over to him. He took my hand and the same feeling I experienced the first time he touched me returned. I didn’t pull away this time. I welcomed the feeling. He led me to the stables. We got to a stall that had a golden gate with a huge butterfly on it. I heard a soft nay. I recognized it immediately. “Persephone!” I said as I opened the door. I couldn’t believe it My horse was standing in the stall! “Oh, girl I have missed you so much!” I didn’t take a step in I was afraid she wouldn’t remember me. She trotted over to me and nuzzled me. “hey beautiful!” I whispered to her. “You have been here this whole time?” She looked at me like “duh” I laughed. I turned to Devon who was standing at the stall amused. “Thank you, this is the best thing I could ever ask for!” “I knew you would love it. K told me about her, and I had your mom send her here so she would be well taken care of.” He spoke. I talked over to him and our eyes met. The world faded around us and we where in my room. We laid on the bed together kissing. “I love you Octavia Rose” he said. “no talking more kissing” I said in return and pulled him back into me. Our bodies gravitated to each other like magnets. Persephone’s Nay broke me out of the vision. “I looked over at her and she had a look that said “really “I blushed. “Why don’t we get your tackle on you?” I asked. She nuzzled me again and I giggled. Devon went to go get her saddle and bridal while I brushed her. Once he returned, we put the tack on her. I matched her exactly cream color with butterflies. As soon as all her tack was on, we lead her out of the stabled. Devon went to get his horse while I mounted Persephone. I decided to walk her around the coral while I waited. Come on girl I said, and we headed to the coral. It felt so good to be riding again. Devon showed up a little while later and we headed out. He took us on a beautiful train that had wildflowers and trees all around. We stopped in a field around lunch. I started to get worried that the thirst would come back but just as Kayla promised that full bag helped. “Kayla made you something he said He handed me a box. I opened it and almost signed in relief. She masterfully made blood gummies there was a note “Eat these DO NOT SHARE THEM” When done reading this note hold it in your hand and think done the note will disappear into something my cousin wont question. I did as I was told. I grabbed the gummies and ate them as fast as I could. “wow you must love gummies that Kayla makes” he said. Being quick on my feet I replied. “yea me and her where messing around a few years back and made cherry gummies they were the best I have ever had. I guess she remembered how to make them they taste just like it.” He smiled. “that’s what the note says “He picked it up Fear shot through me, and he laughed. “my cousin the candy maker” He put the note back down and I glanced at it. “Hey girl you remember those cherry gummies I made. Well guess what I remembered how to make them this time I added a little something extra to really bring out that flavor. Love you K” I relaxed I could kiss her. “yea she is really a good cook I said. We sat there for a little while longer. “I guess we should head back Devon said “yea it is getting dark” I said. We stood. He walked over to me and took my hands. “Octavia, I just wanted to say I know you didn’t want this, and I know this is all new to you, but I hope you will give me a fair shot” I looked up at his eyes. I don’t know what made me do it, but I kissed him. It was just like the vision I had before. We melted into each other. He pulled away before it got taken to far, turret me it would have. “that was unexpected” he said, “OMG I am so sorry my Lord please forgive me!” I dropped to my knees If I die now at least I won’t have to fight this monster inside me I thought. “Octavia,” he said, “you’re going to be my wife, its ok” He stood me up and this time he kissed me. I didn’t want it to end but yep you guessed Persephone interrupted a beautiful moment. “Ok” I said laughing let’s get you back so you can have your dinner. Laughing Devon and I got onto our horses and headed back to the castle.

Chapter 8

We got back to the castle just in time for dinner. The sun was setting, and I lead Persephone into her stall. I kissed her muzzle and said, “see you later beautiful” She nuzzled me, and I left her to her grain and hay. “Let’s get changed before dinner” Devon said, “I doubt this is proper dinner attire” I laughed “yes lets” He gave me a kiss on my cheek in front of my room and said, “I’ll see you later” Blushing I opened the door. Kayla was sitting on my bed with a glass in her hand for me. “Kayla you are a life saver!” I walked over to her. “Thank you for the gummies” she smiled.: your welcome O, little tricks I learned over the years” I took the glass and moaned a little when the blood hit my throat. “K how long until this burning goes away” I asked, “In a few days it will turn more into a dry throat feeling” she said. I signed with relief. Ok a few more days I could do this. Once I finished my glass, I got ready for dinner. I looked through my clothes and saw a very suggestive dress. I grinned.” well might as well tease them before right” I asked Kayla who smiled. “girl if you’re not careful my cousin is going to eat you up” “that’s the plan” I said. I pulled the dress out of my closet it was white silk that came down to my ankles. It had a slit all the way up to the start of my hip the boob line fell just until my belly button. I used double sided tape to keep the girls in place. I picked out a white lace thong to go with the outfit and strappy white stilettos. I looked over to K for approval she was grinning ear to ear. I decided to take my hair out and let it fall. It wasn’t nearly if Kayla, but it went halfway down my back. With a quick brush and makeup touch up I asked K “ready?” Yep, let’s go. We walked out of the door in unison. Every head turned when I walked by them. I keep a straight face K was dissolving into giggles next to me. We got to the dining hall, and I saw Aspen do a look over. I didn’t meet his eyes, but I could tell he wanted me. With my head held high I walked through the door. I scanned the room and found my victim “Devon how are you this evening” His mouth dropped open unable to speak. I could see desire in his eyes. “Shall I sit next to you again?” I asked he nodded with a sly smile at Kayla I headed towards him. He watched my every move line a lioness stalking its prey. I reached him and all he could say was “wow” I smiled and sat down. “what’s for dinner?” I could have sworn I heard him say under his breath. “I don’t care as long as I can have you for dessert” I held back a laugh and looked over at Kayla who was bursting at the deems trying not to laugh. We are having Prison and asparagus Princess one of the servants said Excellent can you tell the chef no garlic? I don’t like the taste much.” I looked over at Kayla who looked relieved “of course princess your wish is my command” He hurries to the kitchen to relay the order. My mother and father walked in a moment later. “Octavia, you look well beautiful” My father said. My mother looked like she was about to kill me “what” I mouthed at her she just shook her head. The food arrived a short time after that. We sat and ate, and I told everyone about the day When I got to the picnic, I felt Devon stiffen I told them about the food and the view, and I left out the fact that we kissed before marriage he relaxed. “so, My Lord when is the wedding going to happen?” my mother asked I took this pause in conversation to take a sip of my wine which somehow Kayla managed to have it laced with blood I looked at her and she mouthed “Later” I nodded “well Mrs. Roman I was thin king about moving the wedding up to next week. I choked on my wine “next week” I coughed. “why so soon?” “Princess the coven is losing power at an alarming rate. If we don’t forget this bond soon, we may lose everything” he said. I looked around the room everyone was somber their eyes at the floor. This was more serious than anyone was letting on I turned to my father “You are going to tell me what exactly is going on how bad it is and everything.” I had power behind my words he couldn’t disobey. Everyone gasped Crap I forgot to formally address him Oh well I was going to be the queen, right? He looked at me then at my mother then back at me. “OK Your right we haven’t told you everything” I held his gaze so if he tried to hide something he wouldn’t be able to. “Our coven is losing it power at an alarming rate, most of us can’t do what we use to” he gestured around the room “We can do little things here and there, but your power outweighs all of ours.” Once the marriage is sealed there will be a ceremony for the most two powerful witches, he gestured to me and Devon where you will come together at a coven circle and bless us with your power. You will each take a drop of your blood into a goblet, and we shall drink from it. I froze He must have seen the concern on my face he quickly added “there is a purification ritual that the bride must go through before the circle so no need to worry yourself about anything we will take care of anything I realized he spoke in his mind no one else heard him. “OK after this ritual what comes next? My parents looked at each other uncomfortable Kayla stared to giggle I shot her a look she stopped “the consummation of the marriage” I heard Devon say. Crathes coven will gather around and witness the consummation “Oh hell no!” I shouted, “I am not having complete strangers watch me loose my virginity!” “We don’t have a choice I heard Devon say. “it seals the ritual without it the power will fade, and our coven will lose everything. We will fade into nothing” He fell silent I looked at him he had pleading in his eyes. I closed mine and sighed “OK” “If our coven is losing power that quickly we will be married by the end f the week that gives you I looked over at Kayla 2 days to plan everything. Can you handle it?” She shook her head in agreement. I looked at Devon who was not staring at my boobs. Can you wait 2 days I asked him in a whisper. “yes, but I don’t want to” he said. “well, you have to” I said. With that we finished dinner.

Chapter 9

The next morning came and I started to freak out. I summoned my father and asked him about everything. “IF people taste my blood wont they turn!” I asked frantic “Octavia calm down” He said “we have a potion that will purify your blood for the day, but it will only last until midnight, so it is imperative that everything happens before had. This will also prevent you from conceiving that night. We want your power passed down, so it is important that you do not get pregnant that night” He looked at me. “I know this is a rush, but you are saving our family” he said. He hugged me gently. “Ok dad well I’m going to need your credit card. I need to get a dress.” I said He laughed and handed me a card. I looked at it and it had my name on it. “your mother and I opened this account for you when you were born there is more than enough money in there to have many generations have a comfortable life. I looked over at Kayla “ready to go shopping?” she nodded. We left the castle and headed to the store. It was a beautiful day out the sun didn’t bother me as much as it did yesterday and Kayla bright along some gummies for us so if we had a craving, we could eat them without having temptation in harming them. We arrived at the bridal store. Madams. We walked in. I started to get nervous. “Octavia are you ok?” Kayla asked. “you look paler than normal” “Yea I’m fine’ I lied let go find me a dress. We headed back into the bridal area. The dresses were beautiful. I must have tried on 50 dresses before finding the one. It was lace and white it hugged my body in all the right places. The neckline went to just above my sternum. The back came down to just about my butt. I was pleased it had patterns of butterflies on it. “you look like an angel” Kayla said. “I feel beautiful in this dress” I admitted. After paying for the dress, we left the shop to go get some lunch. We stopped at a café down the street. They had my favorite a blueberry scone with honey butter. We sat in silence as we ate. “O?” Kayla asked I looked at her “what’s bothering you?” she asked. I swallowed my food. “I guess it is just the fact that everyone is going to see me naked and watch me have sex” I said. I’m not one for PDA Kayla knew this. “it will be ok I promise Ill be there for you” she said. “I know but doesn’t that make you sick knowing you will be seeing your cousin naked?” “eh it wouldn’t be the first time” she said I spit out my scone “what?” I spat Kayla grimaced: I accidently walked in on him when he was you know she gestured with her hand “aww” I said “yea so it wouldn’t be the first time, but I will tell you this, You will love him” she had that look in her eyes. “Kayla what do you mean” I asked. She giggled “well let’s just say if memory serves me correctly, he is hung” I couldn’t help but hide a smile. That made her giggle even more. Once we were finished lunch, she took me over to the mall. “I have to get your birthday gift” she said. I didn’t realize my birthday was tomorrow I groaned “My birthday, I forgot about it with everything going on” She laughed “I knew you would, but your best friend would never!” Come on” she said. I let her lead me into the mall. She got me my own diary and a few pairs of shoes. I stopped her buying a puppy we have enough to worry about right now as is. She protested all the way back to the castle. “the pup was so cute! Why didn’t you let me get him?” she asked well whined I laughed “because dodo brain you have a wedding to plan, and I can’t have you distracted I said. “oh right” she said.” Don’t worry you will have the best wedding ever” We shared a look I knew I could trust her with this. We reached the castle there where cars I didn’t recognize outside. Kayla whispered to me “powerful families from the coven don’t speak unless spoken too” I nodded Before we got out of the car Kayla cupped my mark, I felt a burning sensation. “Ouch Kayla what the hell!” I spoke. Taking the mirror our of my purse I saw my mark was no longer there. “trust me” she said. I nodded and got out. We walked into the castle and were greeted by Devon. “ Thank god Kayla I didn’t know if you would be able to do it or not” He said He turned to me “I am sorry Princess but we had to cover it I’ll explain everything later but right now we have to go” He grabbed my hand and lead me into a study There where tabled set up and on the far right there was a desk with a lady sitting at it she looked like a court stenographer “ ladies and gentlemen May I present Princess Octavia” I heard Devon say. All eyes where on me I knew something was about to go terribly wrong.

Chapter 10

I walked into the room and let Devon led me to the front. He whispered in my ear everything I needed to say. “we are so happy to meet you your majesty a man on my left said. He studied me it made me uncomfortable. “we are here to do a normal proceeding Young Lord Dev says you are of royal blood?” I nodded Can you please tell me your family name. “I repeated what Devon told me I am of the clan Salvatore I am a distant cousin of the Count. I came here for our families to be united by marriage and to save the coven.” I looked over at Devon who looked worried. Welcome to our beautiful country Princess the man said. Now I must ask you What are your powers? We want to make sure we will be able to have enough to save this coven. That got me mad “are you doubting what the Lord Dev has said?” I questioned him. I looked over at Devon briefly he seemed worried. “no Princess of course not!” I would never” the man said, “it sounds to me like you are.” I said, “by questioning him you are questing the integrity of this coven and I will not allow it!” There was power behind my words. I knew at that moment no one would be able to resist it. “your right Princess please forgive us.” The man said. “it isn’t me who you need to ask for forgiveness is it? “I asked “not your right Lord Dev please forgive us.” The man said. Devon looked at me with a little smile on his face “your forgiven Earl Barron, but DO NOT EVER question me or my coven again do you understand me?” “yes, my lord” said Earl Barron “please forgive us” With that they left. I signed in relief when they left. Kayla came around the corner “Cousin Talk Now!” she said with force in her voice. IT was a good try, but she wasn’t as powerful as I was. I repeated her words. “Devon Explained” Putting probably more power behind my words than necessary. “you’re going to be a handful, aren’t you?” He asked. I smiled. “I promise I’ll explain everything let’s go somewhere more private.” We followed him out We went to his room where he told his servants to not disturb him. He closed the door and motioned us to follow him. His room was huge, bigger than mine and Kayla’s. It has the same writing as before but this time it glowed bronze. He motioned us to follow him through a door which led to a study. We all sat down, and he looked at us. A vampire witch hybrid has been discovered here in the castle. Kayla and I both stiffened. They council wanted to make sure You weren’t one That’s why I had Kayla cover your mark. They wouldn’t understand it. I know you’re not, but they wouldn’t know the difference they still are afraid of your clan. I had you lie about your name as well because I wanted to make sure they had no Idea who you are.” He said I looked over at Kayla she was doing a good job of hiding her worry. “Cousin if I may ask, How did they come to this conclusion?” With that a knock sounded on the door. Kayla and I both gasped when Aspen walked in. He had bike marks on his neck. I looked at Kayla and she had the same look as me. Did he tell. The vision I had with him Oh Goddess no. I kept my composer when he waled into the room. Kayla stood up and walked over to him. “Oh, go Kayla “I thought “be careful” She looked into his eyes, and I felt the power from her. “Aspen will you please tell us what you told the council? We only have the concern of the safety of the coven” Her words where persuasive I felt like she was trying to influence him into saying something else other than what he saw with me. Aspen looked at me for a moment. Before our eyes could meet, I looked at Devon. He was rubbing his temple. Then aspen spoke. “there was a woman who came to the barracks. She had power beyond that I have seen before my lord. When she looked at me, we had a connection. She was drinking my blood.” “Oh god no please aspen no” I thought. “what was her name solider” Devon said. I could feel Kayla using all her might to influence him into making up a name or saying he didn’t remember. I could also feel him fighting her. “Her name was” He looked lost in thought he looked at me briefly and I knew he was about to name me. “My lord I don’t remember her name nor what she looked like.” He spoke. I looked at him I am pretty sure my face gave me away, but Devon didn’t seem to notice. “thank you solider that will be all, if you do remember her name, please don’t hesitate to come to me The princess or my cousin with this information. Your dismissed” With that aspen left. Kayla and I both relaxed a little bit. We where still on edge with everything that is happening. “This is why they were here. The sentence for hybrids is death.” He said “I am sorry about this sudden drop of information, but I must go attend a meeting I will see you girls at dinner” with that he left. Kayla and I didn’t dare talk until we were safely in our rooms. As soon as I closed the door and locked it, I smelt it. Kayla had opened the bottle of blood we kept hidden. “you want one” she asked. “yes thanks” I said. We sat in the chair a few moments “Kayla what are we going to do? If they find out I can’t even think of a world without you in it.” Same O, same” she said. We sat like that for a few more moments before someone knocked on the door startled, I almost dropped my glass “shit” I said Kayla hurried to put the glasses away and the bottle. Once it was clear I opened the door. I couldn’t believe who was standing on the other side.

Chapter 11

Aspen what are you doing here! Is everything ok” I asked. He came in and shut the door behind him. “yes, princess why wouldn’t it be?” he asked before I could answer he rounded on me “Oh wait that’s right, you’re the hybrid that vison we had well guess what princess he rubbed his neck the marks disappeared If you don’t want me to tell turn me” I took a step back. I looked at Kayla who came over “How dare you talk to the princess like that!” she shouted, “we could have you put to death aspen, you may be a fun ride b Ut that does not mean you get to threaten my best friend” She looked at me “especially with made up lies and rumors” I added “how dare you accuse me of what you are! I am a princess, and I will not tolerate it!” I put so much power behind those words the lights flickered. Aspen looked amused. “what are you smiling at!” I commanded no answer “answer me now! That is a command!” Again, no answer I looked at Kayla worried. “Princess your powers won’t work on me” he said with a smug smile on his face he put his hand up showing a ring. “what does that ring have to do with anything?” I asked. He smiled. “let’s just say it is a family heirloom and it prevents magical influences” I’m guessing he guessed my move he dodged me quickly “Now now that is no way for a princess to behave” he said slyly. “you will have until after the wedding If you refuse me, You will regret it. You can kiss your precious life and friend goodbye” He turned around and left. Kayla looked at me fear on her face “O what are we going to do!” I looked at her “we can go to Devon; he will help us” I said. “NO!” “are you crazy? He will put both of us to death!” I sat down trying to think of something anything. “I have no choice; I’ll have to turn him” I knew what this meant for me. I would have to drain him of his blood and replace it with mine. I would lose my power and the coven would die. “Octavia no! I won’t let you! Ill do it!’ “no, I shouted with so much authority she flinched back: “He wants me to do it, we will just have to figure out a way”

Over the next few days, it was crazy in the castle we where after all getting ready for a wedding. My wedding. I woke up and the thought hit me “Oh my god, I’m getting married today.” I stated I didn’t realize Kayla was already awake preparing. “yes, you are, and you are going to be a beautiful bride.” She spoke. I got out of bed and let her pamper me after all this may be the last day, I see her. Tears started falling down my face “Oh O don’t cry! Everything is going to work out I promise!” She said hugging me closely. We still didn’t figure out a solution about Aspen. He hasn’t said anything yet, but I knew I was running out of time. Kayla started with her babble God I love that girl I thought. By the time she was done we were rushing to get to the ceremony circle. My dad met us there. “Dad!” I said running to him “do you, have it?” I asked. “yes, here drink this now” he handed me a vial that looked like blood “dad I don’t need blood I said in a whisper “trust me it is dead man’s blood it will kill the vampirism for exactly 12 hours Do as I say” He handed it to me. I drank it It was awful It tasted like 5-day old meat I gaged and almost thew up. “that’s my girl” he said OK let’s go.

We walked into the ceremony circle, and I scanned the area. Aspen was there he had a smile on his face he looked at me and tapped his wrist as in Time is running out princess. I hated that guy. Wait! That was it I grabbed Kayla and brought her to the side “K, I think I figured out the issue to our problem” I said in an excited whisper. She looked at me. “OK I just took a potion that kills the vampirism, right? For 12 hours” I looked at her eyes shot up. She understood what I was saying. If we kill Aspen while I am still just a witch, and she feeds him her blood no one will lose their power. She smiled at me “this will work we just need to make it look real!” she whispered excitedly. Exactly she understood what I was saying. We walked into the middle of the circle while we waited for the wedding to begin. “Kayla tells aspen to meet us in our room after the consummation we will do it then.” She nodded and walked over to him. She took his arm and put her mouth to his ear. He smiled and then shook his head. She came back to me “OK the plan is all set” Oh and look here comes your prince.” She said and spun me in the direction of Devon I smiled stupidly When Devon reached the middle of the circle he asked if I was ready, I lied and said yes. “we can wait we don’t have to rush” Devon whispered to me I shook my head no “our people need us; I have to do this” I whispered back. I drew my shoulders back straighten my head and begun the dance. It was s beautiful dance the way my body flowed and moved to the music. I was nervous about this I didn’t know how to dance for the life of me, but my body somehow knew what to do. The music picked up speed and so did I. Devon and I landed in the middle of the circle at the same time the beat ended. We turned to face the high priestess. She begun

Welcome everyone. Thank you for being here today as we celebrate the union of The princess and Lord Dev.

At this time we want to formally acknowledge the power of the elements that encircle us all and ask that they may be in harmony with all of us, and especially Bride and Groom as they begin their marriage.

We look to the east and acknowledge the element of air. With it comes the powers of knowledge and wisdom. We ask that Groom and Bride gain knowledge and practice that knowledge throughout their marriage and that they may develop wisdom to give their lives meaning.

“We ask the spirits of Air to keep open the lines of communication between Bride and Groom. May their future be as bright as the dawn on the horizon. As Air flows freely to and from and through us all, may their hearts and minds and souls come to know the world and each other in this manner. Seeing not only with their eyes, may they together grow wise with wisdom.”

We look to the south and acknowledge the element of Fire. With it comes the powers of energy and will. We ask that Bride and Groom may trust the energy that connects us all and allow it to connect them, weaving the two of them together in love. May they develop a trust in that energy and bend their wills to one another that they may live in harmony.

Spirits of Fire, we ask that Bride and Groom’s passion for each other and for life itself remain ever strong and vital, fortifying each day with a vibrancy rooted in boldness, and courage. As Fire clears the way for new growth, may they know that this power is theirs: to create change and bring about the richness and quality that comes with a true love of life.”

We look to the west and acknowledge the element of water. With it comes the power of passion and emotion. We ask that Groom and Bride may live lives filled with passion and that they may be passionate about their marriage and relationship. May they learn to harness the power of their emotions to drive their passions for a life well lived.

We ask the Spirits of Water, that their love for each other and the comfort of loved ones, like the serenity of the deep blue ocean, be the oasis that forever surrounds Bride and Groom. May they be well loved, and love well, letting the surety with which Water makes its journey to the sea, flowing over rocks or around trees, even turning into vapor and riding a cloud, ever serve as a reminder that with love all is well and will endure.

We look to the north to acknowledge the power of the earth. With it comes endurance and strength. May Bride and Groom each be grounded in the earth to be strong within themselves, that they may bring that strength into their marriage that they may endure, together, all that life together may bring and prosper.

Spirits of Earth, we ask that you give unto those you see standing before you this day, the rock-solid place to stand and fulfill his destiny. May their journey mirror the vast plains and fertile fields, expansive and alive. May they find the right seeds to sow to ensure a bountiful harvest. And when they look up at the Northern Star, may they know that it is as bright and constant as their love for each other as well as the love of the divine

Now that we have acknowledged the divine in the world around us, we acknowledge the divine within Groom and Bride. There is a God and Goddess within them that connects them with the divinity within themselves. May they connect through their divine nature bringing the best they have to offer each other both physically and spiritually Great Mother, touch with your grace and fill this woman with your beauty and strength in the unending cycles of growth and change that are the years and seasons of lives spent together in love and wonder. Share with her your fertile nature from which all abundance flows.

You’ve both chosen to wear rings as a reminder of the promises you are making today. People often say wedding bands are a perfect circle, with no beginning and no end. But these rings did have a beginning. The stones were formed a long time ago deep with the earth. Eventually, a series of lucky events caused them to rise to the surface, where someone dug them up. Metal was then liquefied in a furnace at a thousand degrees — molded, cooled, and painstakingly polished. Love is like that. It comes from humble beginnings, and through a combination of serendipity and effort, imperfect beings shape it into something extraordinary. It’s the process of making something beautiful where there was once nothing at all. As you look at these rings over the years, I hope you remember that. You may kiss the bride!”

Chapter 12

The ceremony ended I looked at my new husband He was handsome sure and sexy. I smiled to myself OK married life wasn’t going to be so bad not if I had someone that looked like him. “Congrats girl!” We only have a few moments before the power ceremony, but I wanted to come sees you” Kayla was so happy we were officially a family now. “you do realize you can’t get rid of me now right” I said in a playful tone she looked at me, but something was off about her. “I love you so much O” she kissed my cheek and walked away. I wanted to chase after her and make her tell me what was wrong, but I got swept away by Devon. We walked back to the middle of the circle where a knife and a goblet sat. I gulped I sent up a silent prayer to the goddess “Oh goddess Nyx mother of the night please let this potion work” The ceremony begun. “We gather around these two for one purpose. To spark our power that has been fading!” The pretest shouted “our coven is growing weak, and we cannot survive much longer with out it. I now will take the blade and give the power these two shares to all of you!” “Blessed be!” the whole coven shout. The priestess came over to me “Octavia Princess of the Roman clan do you share your power willingly with the coven tonight?” She asked “Yes My blood is their blood” I responded; she pricked my finger into a goblet. She moved to Devon I looked for Kayla she wasn’t there, or I couldn’t find her. I started to have a panic attack what if I smell his blood and attack oh no oh no! before I could do anything or stop the priestess asked the same to him. I heard him respond Yes, my blood is their blood then I smelt it. It was the most delicious thing I ever smelt in the entire world. I couldn’t put my finger on where I smelt it before. Then it hit me Aspen’s blood. I wanted to leave the ceremony, but I couldn’t. I scanned the area I didn’t see him or Kayla. “Oh god Kayla no!” I thought what happened to the plan! The priestess turned to the coven “We share this blood and power the bond of magic is strong drink everyone and we will be saved!” she threw her hands up and everyone shouted, “Blessed be!” Once the last person drank the ceremony was over. “Devon I have to pee “I said quickly as I ran trying to find Kyla: Don’t be gone long we have the consummation soon!” He shouted back. I waved my hand, so he knew I heard him. I stopped around the corner and took a deep breath. I smelt it I took off running in the direction of the smell. “NO!” I heard a girl screaming oh god this can’t be good I thought. I ran faster in search then I saw them. Beautiful Kayla blood all over her aspen at her feet. NO NO I wants to shout she saw me and very slightly shook her head no. I understood. I wanted to run to her, but the guards got there before I could. NO, I shouted they didn’t hear me. I took off running after them. I don’t know what happened next Devon was at my side. “Octavia stays back!” “NO, they are going to kill her No!” I tired to free myself “Stay back that’s a command!” I recognized the voice. It was my father. He looked at me tears in his eyes Devon go back I will make sure Octavia comes soon Devon obeyed and turned around “LET ME GO!” I yelled at my dad “NO, Octavia listen to me We will help her but right now you need to do your duty to the coven I promise we will save Kayla!” I fell to my knees crying. I couldn’t lose her she was my best friend my sister. “honey we will save her I promise you” he said more gently “let’s go we have to finish what we started. He headed me back to the circle. This is the last thing I want to do I thought. I don’t want to do this I want to save my best friend. I looked at the clock 11:00pm I had one hour until the potion wore off “you can do this my dad said to me. He led me to the middle of the circle where a bed now lay. My handmaiden rushed around me to prepare me for the consummation. It happened in a daze I remember the priestess blessing us and the pain of losing my virginity. I gasped at the pain and Devon looked at me “are you ok?” He asked I shook my head yes. He continued with what felt like hours until he finally moaned, he was finished. We both got up and showed the sheet where the blood laid from me losing my virginity. The coven shouted, “Blessed be” and departed. I looked at the clock 11:59pm Damn It was almost midnight I slowly felt the burn come back into my throat. I excused myself and ran back to my room. I slammed the door shut and grabbed the bottle I drank deeply. “Octavia, can I come in?

I heard a voice at the door. I stashed the bottle and made sure there where no traces. “Yes,” I said. Devon came into my room. “Octavia I am so sorry about Kayla. Her trial is next week ““Devon you can change this!” I shouted, “Please don’t do this she is my best friend!” He looked at me “did you know?” he asked I clamped my mouth shut and turned away from him “Octavia did you know!” This time more forcefully. I slowly turned around and nodded. “Yes, I knew.”

Blood and Trust

Devon looked at me “what do you mean you knew?” He asked forcefully “you could be put to death because of this!” “She is my best friend, I love her!” I shouted back at him. He shook his head “GET OUT!” I yelled as I pushed him to the door. I slammed it in his face and fell I cried what felt like days I didn’t take any visitors and I didn’t leave my room. I didn’t want to look at Devon. He wouldn’t save her. I stood up and walked over to the mirror. “Fine if he wont save her I will” I said to my reflection. With that I started to devise my plan.