A Soul in Torment: Book Three of the Vampire’S Lady Series

A Soul in Torment

Book Three of The Vampire’s Lady Series

D.J. Marteeny

and

Richard Marteeny

iUniverse, Inc.

Bloomington

A Soul in Torment

Book Three of The Vampire’s Lady Series

Copyright © 2012

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the publisher except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-4759-3883-8 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-3885-2 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-4759-3884-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2012912544

iUniverse rev. date: 7/27/2012

Contents

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Epilogue

This book is dedicated to John, Amber, Zak and Chrissy. Thank you for your inspiration and support.

Prologue

The ferryman’s fingers gripped the long pole, submerging it into the swampy black waters of the river Styx as he carefully pushed himself away from the jagged shoreline. In his boat was the latest arrival to Hell, a haunted figure, eyes tearstained and blotchy as he gazed in horror at the surrounding landscape of the place he was to call home for all eternity.

The vessel pushed on through thick, dense fog; the heat rising from the boiling water was suffocating. Finally the boat eased itself onto the opposite shore where the fog dissipates to reveal a quarter of a mile of hot, foul smelling mud flowing towards the castle-like walls of the city of Dis which could be seen off in the distance.

Phlegyas, as the ferryman was sometimes called, reached down and slowly removed a coin from the mouth of his passenger while the cowering figure fearfully awaited those who would deliver him to the Lord of Darkness. The moment one of the damned arrives in this place it quickly becomes apparent that Dante Alighieri’s depiction of the underworld was eerily accurate. The lost souls soon realize that the nine circles of suffering are all too real. Most find themselves traveling through each dimension, one by one, as they face anguish and torture that grows more intense with each new phase of their journey. Finally they reach his realm—and the ruler of the underworld, himself.

For some, such as the ferryman’s present guest, there was a direct line to this, the ninth circle of Hell; for Heinrich Klume’s sins against humanity were so heinous that, from the moment he passed into eternal darkness, his soul was ravaged by pain and torment so intense he could only be in one place—Hell!

As Klume waited, his eyes gazed back out over the black waters, where the violent dance of the souls of the damned was taking place. A dark form, eyes shooting forth red sparks of ember, reached its slimy hand out of the water grasping and clawing at the side of the vessel in an attempt to drag the newcomer into its nightmare. Klume recoiled in fear and revulsion as insane laughter reached his ears, the sound, like sharp claws being dragged across a chalkboard, sent shivers down his spine.

Huge creatures, black winged and monstrous, were stationed upon the castle walls staring at him with evil grins. The dark angels guarded the entrance to the city of Dis, Lucifer’s home in this place of hopelessness and despair. Their purpose was not to protect this place from those that may try to enter, but to stop those who were foolish enough to think they have even the slightest chance of escaping this pit of suffering.

Dis was a city of fire and brimstone, home to those cast out with Lucifer long ago. In the center of this vast, underground cavern stood a large hexagonal pyramid created from the blackened, putrid souls of the dead. It was forged from Hell fire and mortared by deeds of hatred, lust, and greed. The pyramid dwarfed anything constructed on earth. Built by the suffering of the unrepentant, its stairs rose up past the clouds of sulfuric gas where a shrine of skulls housed a single throne. Every thirty days the pyramid collapsed in on itself and had to be rebuilt, for there was a never ending supply of the wicked and sinful to accomplish this task.

Lucifer did not reside in the pyramid as most would assume but, instead, lived in a large temple at the far left end of the city. The streets leading up to this structure were bricked with pain and paved with human tears. His residence was obscenely large and ornate; the singed rococo walls covered in the macabre living portrait of hundreds of his notorious and cherished subjects, their countenances changing daily to accommodate the millions of tortured souls inhabiting the Dark Lord’s domain.

Of this collection of damned souls the most notable was that of Judas Iscariot as he swung from a dead olive tree while his eyes were being plucked out by crows. Shining, silver pieces, the means of his betrayal of the living Christ, slipped through his agonized fingers and dropped to the dry dusty ground where they transformed into beetles that scurried back up the tree to gnaw on the victim’s putrid flesh. These acts played out over and over again for the express amusement and admiration of the lord of this domain. A disgruntled Lucifer sat in his chair, at his hoofed feet the soul of Stalin was chained in a ring of fire.

Damn! Damn! Damn! Each time this curse was uttered a billion souls instantaneously exploded into shards of matter, their screams of pain echoing throughout Hell. The Lord of Darkness arose and kicked Stalin with his cloven hoof as the tortured soul whimpered in continuous agony.

Lucifer’s large muscular frame, covered in gray and red flesh, undulated with every move, sparks under his hooves flying out in all directions as he paced back and forth. Flames of fire, like the wicks on a candle, flickered on the tips of his large curved horns as they scraped the scorched and blackened ceiling, his eyes blazing red as he looked for something or someone to take his frustration out on.

What’s wrong lover? A sultry figure lay next to Lucifer’s chair on a couch covered in hides both human and animal. Red eyed owls perched on the four corners, nibbling on the flesh of the sinful. The woman’s long blonde hair framed the alabaster skin of her face as it cascaded down past the shoulders of a body that could only be described as voluptuous. But this was where any resemblance to her former human existence ended for her feet were like the talons of a bird of prey and her eyes were feral like the demon she had become. She occupied herself as she asked the question, filing her blood red nails to razor sharp points.

I had him. Lucifer ranted, "I had the holy man within my grasp—a priest, one of His own flock—and I lost him!"

The woman looked down at the empty collar and chain next to her couch, a look of disappointment flashing across her beautiful face.

You weren’t the only one that lost on that deal, hon. The last two words were uttered with disdain. As I recall the arrangement was that if I agreed to give you Cain, the vampire priest was to be mine. Her body shuddered, her tongue licking the blood red lips at the delicious thought of the conundrum. A priest who was a vampire—wonderful, she thought. After all, Cain was my right hand man, an integral part in my own triumvirate. Now, with him gone, my power base is weakened and all I get from you are false promises, empty hopes and meaningless words. She stared defiantly at the creature she called lord, making sure her insults hit home. I wanted that priest. He would have been something worth having, a new breed—a first—one of a kind.

Lucifer’s horned skull turned slowly, the red eyes blazing fire along his line of sight. Blah, blah, blah—can it, Lilith—I get it—you’re disappointed. Would you like some cheese to go with that whine?

Anger flashed across the beautiful face before the woman forced herself to gain control of her emotions. She knew only too well that an argument with Lucifer was never easily won so she decided to use a more subtle approach. Disappointed—yes, I am—but it will pass. It’s just—well, it would have been so much fun playing with him, toying with him, watching him struggle. Just imagine it, a holy man who’s now a creature of darkness. Oh the guilt he would possess—a soul that lived in constant torment. You have to admit it was Cain’s crowning glory when he saw to the vampire’s creation. He always was such a resourceful child, she said with a sly smile.

Yeah, yeah—whatever. Lucifer ranted in disgust. You can praise Cain all you want. The only thing I was interested in was that damned priest. I must have him! I must have that soul back in my fold. Damn! Another billion souls exploded as the Lord of the Underworld cursed aloud, their screams echoing throughout the room once again.

If you want him so badly why don’t you just go and get him? The woman asked, growing tired of her master’s ranting. "Since when has anyone ever stopped you from claiming anything your little heart desired?"

"Really Lilith—I can’t believe you just said that. I— don’t go and get anything as you so eloquently put it, and why? Because I am who I am. I don’t do, I let others do for me. I don’t take, things come to me willingly. Besides, it’s not just the priest that I want—it’s all of them—all of his bloody cohorts." he raged on.

All of them? she asked in confusion.

"Yes, all of them, that happy little troop of goodness— the priest, the vampire, or ex-vampire as the case may be, and the slut he professes to love. I was so close to claiming that little Buffy wanna-be; what was her name—Adrianna. Now, she would have gladly given me anything to save the ones she loved—anything! And, if I had her, those two lap dogs of hers would eventually have followed. Hah—a priest and a vampire turned human— falling all over that female like love sick puppies. Damn it! Again, a billion souls scream out in agony as Lucifer cursed once more. It would’ve been like winning the Triple Crown— the soul of a human that was once a vampire, a vampire that was once human—as well as a priest —and the woman that loved them both. Imagine the possibilities. But no—instead I had to watch it all slip right through my fingers because Michael had to get all holier than thou’’ and spoil everything!

Lucifer turned around slowly, his ponderous body moving back towards his chair. Upon reaching it, he slumped down, resting his large head in the palm of his hand as he sat there sulking.

You know what lover, I don’t like to get involved in your family squabbles but— I really think you’re afraid of Michael, the woman said as she continued to file her nails, casting a sidelong glance at Lucifer to catch his reaction.

Woman, I would watch my mouth if I were you, hissed Lucifer.

"Well—it’s painfully obvious you’re not—me, that is… she replied, getting tired of their petty bickering back and forth. …because I don’t give a shit about you, Michael, Julian or the bitch! I only want the priest that was promised to me. So—if you won’t get him for me, then I’ll just have to go and get him myself."

Lucifer sat back in his chair, an evil smile spreading across his face. "What a wonderful idea. You know my lovely Lilith, sometimes you simply amaze me. If you’re serious, my dear, and if you want that priest so badly, you have my permission to go and get him yourself as you so eloquently put it. I will endeavor to assist you in any way that I can but you understand that I must keep a low profile through the entire affair? You know, with Michael watching us and all."

Slowly the woman rose, Once again your problem has to be solved by a woman—and that’s just how I like it. Lilith stated. But I will need help. More precisely, I’ll need the hounds.

"Well, last I heard Samael was using them, an arrangement I’m not particularly happy about. So, my dear, if you will wait a moment…" Lucifer’s hulking form rose from his chair. He lifted his hand and snapped his fingers and voila—the beast was transformed into an old man, "…I will make myself a little less conspicuous. Fetching the hounds is something I can help you with."

An old man… Lilith said as she eyed the ancient figure dressed in shabby clothes and carrying a walking cane, …really, Lu, is that the best you can do?

This…he said, swiping his hand down the front of his form, …serves my purpose. Now, if you want those hounds you’d better follow me. Time grows short, my lovely Lilly, and we have havoc to wreak on earth!

Chapter 1

Silence—not a sound could be heard for miles around—nothing except the soft trickling of a gently flowing stream. The great stag bent its massive head to taste the cold, clear water. It drank long and deeply until, suddenly, it raised its head in alarm. All of the deer’s senses came alive as its nostrils flared—catching the scent of danger flowing towards it on the gentle breeze. The stag sniffed the air, first in one direction then another, as it tried to determine from which direction the threat was approaching.

All of a sudden the animal froze; standing as still as a statue, listening for any sound that would identify the intruder it knew was near—and getting closer all the time. Knees bent, the deer prepared to flee as terror filled its wildly beating heart. But before it could leap to freedom, it was grabbed from behind, held in a grip of steel as two impossibly strong arms encircled its neck preventing it from going anywhere. The animal’s terrified cries echoed throughout the woods as it bellowed in pain. Something sharp, like the tip of a fine blade, pierced the soft flesh of the deer’s neck as its captor began to drink deeply of the animal’s blood, the source of life for the deer as well as its attacker. The animal struggled to break free but it was hopeless. The frightened deer was no match for the strong arms that held it tightly.

Soon, the deer began to tire. It ceased to struggle, the loss of blood weakening the great stag. Just as the animal was preparing to surrender its life to its captor, the strong arms released their hold and the deer was set free. It stood on shaky legs for a moment confused and disoriented. But even in its dazed state there was no mistaking the softness of a tongue running gently over the two puncture wounds in its neck, stemming the flow of blood, healing the wounds its captor had inflicted. The words, Go now— you are free—and thank you, reached the animal’s ears and the deer, with a sudden burst of speed, ran off into the darkness.

It’s an animal, my friend. There’s no sin in taking its life if it’s to preserve your own. Humans hunt and eat deer meat all of the time.

"I told you before, Simon, I won’t kill—anything. I know it pains you to hear this but, at this stage in my so called life, I really don’t care if I live or die but the hunger rising inside of me takes any decision I may want to make out of my hands. It’s all consuming and I can’t fight against it so I eat—or drink as the case may be—whether I like it or not. But, I do have the choice when it comes to the creature’s survival and I choose life—so I refuse to drain it."

"Suit yourself, Priest. I’ve been a vampire too long to understand your scruples—the human emotions you’re still feeling— but I will respect your choice on the matter. Now, to get back to the conversation we were having before our four legged friend decided to surprise us with dinner. You can’t just run off by yourself to face god knows what on your own—no matter what you are—or how prepared you think you are," the tall, blond vampire tried to explain, the slightest hint of desperation apparent in his voice. He realized his pleas were falling on deaf ears as he stared at the stubborn expression on the face of the man before him.

I told you—don’t call me that anymore. The priestly life I once had is dead to me now, the man replied, his overwhelming despair evident in his words. The sooner it becomes a distant memory the better I’ll like it. I’ve made my decision, Simon. I’m leaving—alone—and there’s nothing you, or anyone else, can do about it.

Look—Rick… Simon said. He reached towards the man then let his arm fall uselessly to his side as Rick backed away from him. …I’m sorry for all that you’ve been through. I realize none of this was your choice but, given the circumstance, you’ve adapted well to your new—situation. Even so, it doesn’t matter how prepared you think you are, creatures like us have the best chance of surviving if we band together. That’s why we live in covens. There’s safety in numbers and you, of all people, know very well the dangers that are out there threatening our kind. Come back with me—join our group. Julian and the others would be glad to have you and you can have some semblance of a normal life—a family— back in Winwood.

Winwood! Rick shouted, turning on the man who’d been his mentor and companion for the past year. "How can I ever go back there? Have you forgotten the whole town thinks I’m dead? What kind of a normal life could I possibly have if I return to my hometown? How do I explain to people that have known me most of my life that yes, I did die, but I was reborn—as a vampire! I’m sure that would go over really well. No, Simon, my mind’s made up. I’m grateful for all that you’ve done for me. You’ve given up a year of your life to see that I was trained properly and now it’s time that I put that training to the test. I need space—some time to myself to figure out just what I’m going to do for the rest of eternity since I was lucky enough to have the gift of immortality forced upon me. Don’t, Simon… Rick said, holding up his hand to stop the vampire from responding. He already knew what his friend was going to say. I won’t return with you. I realize that what happened to me was un-intentional and you know I don’t blame Julian at all but, if the truth be told, it’s because of him that I am what I am. Winwood, and Julian’s coven, is the last place I want to be. I’m not ready to face him and I’m sure as hell not ready to face Adr—her. For god’s sake, Simon, he’s human now and I’m not. Our roles have been reversed so why—why—would I even consider…? Rick stopped for a moment when he realized his words were upsetting his friend. Never mind, it’s not important. My mind is made up. I’m sorry if you disagree with my decision—and I’m sorry if I’ve upset you. That was not my intention but—I’m leaving tonight and nothing you say will change that. Thank you again for all that you’ve done for me and now, I think I’d better get on the road or it will be dawn before we know it."

Alright, I won’t argue with you anymore and, hard as it may be for you to believe, I do understand where you’re coming from but, Rick… Simon told him as the other man turned to walk off.

Rick stopped, turning his head slightly to the side to listen to what his friend was saying. "…even though you’ve made it perfectly clear that you want to do this all on your own you’ll have certain needs that will have to be addressed. You’ll want to fit in with the people around you—appear as normal as possible. You’ll have to find a place to stay and everything else that goes along with setting up house. You’ll need cash—credit cards, etc. and, since you’ve pointed out that everyone thinks you’re dead, you won’t be able to access anything that was yours in your former life." Simon, seeing the look of pain in the priest’s eyes, hesitated before continuing.

The vampire wasn’t sure how his friend would take what he was about to tell him but Rick had to know that there were resources at his disposal. With a little trepidation Simon bent down and withdrew a large black duffle bag from behind a nearby tree.

"Julian had money put into an account for you—use it. I’ve put credit cards and enough cash to hold you for a while in a wallet inside of this bag as well as the names of the banks that are safe for you to use—for blood as well as cash. Do not let that stubborn pride of yours cloud your judgment. You’ll need these things to survive on your own and—it will help Julian with the guilt you know he’s feeling for his part in all of this." The man before him just nodded in agreement. And, Rick —don’t hesitate to call if you need us.

Rick turned to stare at the man who’d been his trainer as well as his good friend. Simon had stayed with him throughout his transition from human to vampire, helping him survive months of agony and torment as Rick fought to control the beast within him—to hang on to whatever was left of the humanity that had been stripped away from him against his will and for that, this vampire was grateful. Take care, Simon… he said as he held out his hand to the other vampire. Simon grasped it tightly for a brief moment before releasing it. … and thank you again. Bending down, Rick picked up the duffle bag that now held all of his earthy possessions. Turning, he took one last look at his friend before disappearing into the woods.

Take care, priest, and good luck. Simon whispered to the darkness.

* * * * *

Luck has nothing to do with it. Rick said aloud, his sharp hearing catching Simon’s last words as they drifted towards him on the soft summer breeze. Well, what do I do now"? he wondered, as he moved swiftly through the darkness. He had no idea where he was going so he decided to stay under cover of the trees. He’d just keep walking and see where he ended up.

He knew Simon was probably right; he should go back to the coven, maybe get some actual battle training from a seasoned warrior like Christoff, but he just couldn’t bring himself to do it. He’d meant what he’d said when he’d told Simon that he didn’t blame Julian, or anyone else for that matter, for what had happened to him. His becoming a vampire was just one of those ironic twists of fate that you can do nothing about so you just accept it and try to make the best of an unfortunate situation. Or maybe I’ll get lucky and someone will stake me, he said bitterly.

The thought had occurred to him more than once to end his own life. It would be simple. All he had to do was meet the dawn and let the sunlight do the rest. But remnants of his human existence always seemed to get in the way. Guilt is a great motivator he thought as his mind drifted back to the night that changed his life forever.

He could see the scene unfolding before him as if it were happening all over again. It was seared into his brain, the pictures playing over and over again in his mind every time he closed his eyes. He could see Adrianna Avani, his lifelong friend, fighting for her life as a vampire prepared to attack her. Vampires—creatures of myth and legend, right? Wrong! They were real— along with all sorts of other monstrosities you thought were only figments of your imagination. He and his friends had found out the hard way when the demon, Dragone, an ancient vampire and Julian Reynold’s sire, set out to destroy Julian, Adrianna, the woman he loved, and anyone else that got in his way.

Unfortunately for him, Rick had been one of those people. Aware that he couldn’t save Adrianna against a supernatural enemy like Dragone on his own, Rick had let the injured Julian feed from him to regain the strength he needed to help Addie. It was at this precise moment that Dragone’s son, Enoch, an evil vampire in his own right, attacked Rick, inflicting a mortal injury. Oh, Julian had destroyed Enoch in the end but not before the irreversible damage to Rick had been done. As Julian held the dying priest in his arms, the blood from his own wounds mingled with Rick’s and that was how the priest became infected. Rick’s transformation had begun without either of them even realizing it.

But, unfortunately, someone else did. Dragone had witnessed it all and he knew very well what was happening—and what the terrible aftermath would be. Even though the demon was eventually captured and imprisoned by the one known as The Avenger, Dragone was found and released by his own followers. One of his first orders upon returning to his hordes was for the dead priest, Rick, to be brought to him.

The demon saw to it that Rick was nourished by one of his own foul creatures thus finishing the process that Julian’s vampire blood had started. Dragone further planned to capture Julian and Adrianna again and have Rick turn Adrianna into a vampire as well—before Julian’s very eyes. But the Avenger, also known as Michael the Archangel, had saved the day and Dragone was destroyed once and for all, stabbed through the heart by the only weapon that could end his evil life—the spear of redemption. But, although Michael had saved the others, there was little he could for Rick except bargain with the devil to return Rick’s soul.

The life Rick had known in the small town of Winwood was lost to him forever. Never again would he preside at mass on Sunday morning at St Mary’s Church where he’d been the pastor. Never again would he enjoy the company of his close friend, Kate St. John and never again would he be able to look Adrianna, his dearest friend and the woman he’d loved in secret for longer than he could remember, in the eyes without recalling every detail of the nightmare he was forced to live for the rest of eternity.

That was why he needed to get away from everything that reminded him of all that he’d lost. He needed to think, to plan out some sort of life for himself while he tried to make the best of the situation he now found himself in. Deep in thought, he continued walking. On and on he went until he found himself on a bike trail, barely visible in the darkness, but he had no problem seeing anything. His eyesight, as well as his other senses, was enhanced to the extreme, one of the upsides of the creature he had become.

As a matter of fact he didn’t have to walk anywhere if he didn’t want to. He could just close his eyes and think of a place and poof—there he was. But he didn’t do that very often. Even as a human, Rick enjoyed walking. It helped to clear his head. It also gave him a sense of peace and serenity he didn’t think was possible for the creature he’d become so he kept on going, farther and farther until, with some surprise, he realized that dawn was just over the horizon. Where had the time gone—and where in God’s name am I? he wondered.

Stopping for a moment he did a quick survey of his surroundings. Off in the distance, through a halo of leaves sprouting from the top of a large oak tree, he noticed a sign printed in bold black letters—Rt. 118. Okay, that’s a start, he thought. It would be more of a help though if he actually knew where Rt. 118 went. He moved cautiously closer to the long highway which was bordered on either side by a thick dense forest but, as his eyes continued to search the area, he could see no further markers that would tell him where he was. Looking up, he noticed with some alarm that the darkness of the evening sky was fluttering between black and shades of grey.

I’d better find a place to stay soon or I’ll be spending the day in some damp, dark cave yet again and that I refuse to do, he said to no-one in particular. He was tired of living like an animal even though he knew it was for his own safety, and that of the local human population, that Simon had kept them both as far away from civilization as possible while he trained Rick in the ways of the vampire.

He’d been so pre-occupied, the training harsh but necessary, that Rick hadn’t realized just how much he missed the comforts of his human existence until now. He found himself longing for a hot shower and a soft bed to sleep in. I may be a monster but I don’t have to live like one, he thought as he remembered something Simon had said to him as he was leaving.

Unzipping the duffel bag he was carrying, he fumbled around inside. His fingers wrapped around a wallet buried beneath a pile of clothing. He also noticed a few other necessities. Thank God someone had their wits about them. Rick hadn’t really given any thought to what would happen after Simon was gone and he was on his own. Only now was it becoming evident that he wouldn’t survive long if he didn’t fit into society —and fitting in meant that he had to at least appear to be human. And appearing to be human meant that he needed things—all of which he, Rick Ferrante, had plenty of back at his home in Winwood. But he couldn’t go there to retrieve them so—that left him only one choice. As much as he hated to do it, he’d have to use the resources, money, credit cards, etc, that Julian had set up for him.

With a deep sigh, he flipped the leather wallet open—and stared in shock at the contents. What the —there has to be at least a thousand dollars in here —in cash, he thought to himself in stunned silence. I’ve never carried around that kind of money. Glancing back down at the wallet he noticed it also contained three or four assorted credit cards all in the name of Rick Franco. Oh that’s great—I can’t even use my own name anymore. Even though he understood the reasoning behind it, the fact that he was no longer Rick Ferrante was hard for him to accept. And when had Julian found the time to set all of this up and get everything to Simon without my knowledge? he asked himself.

As he stood alone in the darkness, surrounded by nothing but the endless night, he was filled with a despair so great it was like a physical pain reaching into the depths of his very soul. Damn it! he shouted as he tossed the wallet into the inky blackness. I don’t need your blood money! I don’t need… but he never finished the sentence as he buried his face in his hands.

Why is this happening to me? he asked, his voice sounding muffled as his face remained hidden in his palms. And how can I possibly go on? His sadness—the sense of loss—was overwhelming. He had to get a grip on things, come to terms with what he was or he wouldn’t last out the week. He fought to gain control of his emotions. After a moment, he dropped his hands and slowly wiped the moisture from his eyes. I am what I am and it’s no-one’s fault. It was an accident—just a horrible accident and I have to get beyond it, he whispered aloud.

He stood a moment longer listening to the sounds of the night. If I don’t get moving the morning sun will soon take care of all my worries—and maybe that would be for the best, he thought with a cynical smile. But he knew the man he used to be would never allow that to happen so he started walking slowly towards the blacktop highway. As the woods ended and he stepped out into the open, Rick’s keen eyesight picked out the leather wallet lying in the road just a few feet in front of him. With reluctance, he forced himself to scoop the object up, placing it in the back pocket of his jeans. He’d wasted enough time. He needed to find a place to stay like right now.

Making sure to stay close to the side of the road and the protection of the nearby trees he walked for another mile or so before another sign came into view. This one was much larger, the words RICKETTS GLEN STATE PARK carved into the wooden background. Pausing, he peered into the darkness in front of him. Off in the distance was a four way intersection. To the right, sitting very close to the main road, was what looked like a small store. The words THE OLD TRADING POST glistened on the neon sign plastered to the front of the building. This seems like as good a place as any to get some information about a place to stay. Rick said aloud. Looking first left then right, he checked out the area for any sign of a threat but, sensing nothing, he approached the building with caution.

Just as he was about to step onto the front porch Rick hesitated, taking a step backwards. Running his hands through his hair he tried to neaten his appearance the best that he could with what he had at his disposal. When he was satisfied that he wouldn’t frighten the human population with just one look at himself, he stepped onto the porch and proceeded into the store.

He stopped just inside the doorway, his hand rushing to shade his eyes from the glare of a dozen fluorescent lights, his senses once again on high alert. In the past year he’d had minimal contact with humans. Okay Rick, he thought to himself, this will be your first real test. Let’s see if you can blend in without making a meal of the first person that crosses your path! As his eyes finally adjusted to the brightness of the room, Rick lowered his hand slowly, taking in his surroundings. There were only two people still in the small store. One, a pretty woman with locks of red curls flowing down past her shoulders and a half empty bottle of Smirnoff poised just above her lips as she stood staring at him with an expression of surprise—or was it suspicion?

John… she said urgently as she lowered the bottle, placing it on the counter before her.

What is it Amber—I’m kinda busy right now, replied a young man with dark blond hair who was working behind her, his muscular forearms bulging from the strain of the heavy crate he was in the process of heaving into a back storage room. As he turned towards the woman, John noticed Rick standing there. The young man’s eyes locked with the woman’s before he bent down to place the crate onto the floor, moving quickly to join her behind the counter. Amb—you didn’t lock the door? he asked in a quiet voice.

The woman looked at him as if he were crazy. "What—we never lock the doors around here," but she told herself that was one practice that was about to change.

Rick could feel their fear. He pulled his eyes away from the couple and moved slowly down a side aisle, but not before he’d noticed the woman’s hand reaching for something hidden beneath the counter. He assumed it was a weapon of some sort and he could feel the beast within him react, survival its only concern. Two sharp fangs began to elongate as his lips drew back into a snarl. His eyes changed from a deep brown to blood red as he sniffed the air, picking up the scent of fear as the young man approached him from behind.

Is there something I can help you find, mister? We’re really not open for business at this hour.

Rick stood, hidden from view, surrounded by shelves of merchandise. His fists clenched tightly as he fought against the rising tide of emotions churning within him. No— I will not lose control. I will not hurt these innocent people. He tried desperately to relax, breathing slowly—deeply—forcing the monster inside of him back to the inner most recesses of his soul. After a few minutes his emotions were once again under some semblance of control and he moved on down the aisle. Turning his head slightly, he could just make out the outline of a tall figure as the man called John watched him intently. I’m sorry. Rick said in a low voice. The door was open so I assumed—I won’t keep you long. I—just need a few things.

Make it quick then. John replied as he turned and walked back to his wife.

Rick proceeded to gather the few things he needed to help him perfect the human façade he hoped to portray to the locals. He gathered the cosmetics that most people used knowing full well he would never open any of them. When he was finished, he moved out into the open and headed for the counter stopping only once to pick up a couple of dark colored shirts and a pair of black jeans before finally approaching the couple who had yet to take their eyes off of him.

Three pairs of eyes stared each other down as Amber rang up the items, her husband quickly tossing them into a brown paper bag. Rick could sense their uneasiness and how could he blame them? He’d be freaked out, too, if a guy who’d just spent a year in the woods, and looked it, came at him in the dead of night. These people weren’t fools. They didn’t know him. They couldn’t tell how hard he was fighting his urges so he wouldn’t hurt them. But, somehow, they did know he was dangerous and they just wanted him to leave.

He toyed with the option of hypnotizing them into forgetting they’d ever seen him but his own stubbornness refused to let him use the power of the vampire unless it was absolutely necessary. In his former life he’d always had a way with people, his gentleness immediately putting people at ease. With a deep sigh of regret he wondered if he would ever regain that ability in his present form. Well, it’s worth a try,he thought as he looked at the couple.

"Look—I’m really sorry to bother you both at this late hour. I’ve been—traveling for quite some time and I just need to find a place to stay for the night. Is there anywhere near by where I can get a room and—a bite to eat?" He noticed the quick look that flashed between the couple before the woman replied,

The Lakeview Inn is about a mile down the road. They have rooms to rent but—it’s the height of the tourist season around here, mister. It’ll be hit or miss if they have any openings. Go to the bar at the front of the building. Ask for Roy, she said, again looking oddly at her husband. If anyone can help you he can.

Rick couldn’t help but wonder what secret message had passed between the couple but he wasn’t about to ask. He knew better than anyone about secrets especially the one he was trying desperately to hide. He also realized that these people suspected something was off about him, but he refused to do anything about it. I’ll take my chances. They can’t possibly have any clue who—or what—I am, he thought and with a quick, Thanks, he turned and walked out the door, the young couple following close on his heels.

There’s something strange about that guy. Amber said as she lit up a cigarette.

Yeah—but Roy will know what to do with him. John replied.

Fucking townies. Amber said as they both turned and re-entered the building securing the lock behind them.

Rick’s sharp hearing picked up their words as he unzipped the duffel bag and shoved his recent purchases inside. His vampire instincts were screaming a warning in his head. There’s trouble brewing—I can feel it. He didn’t know who this Roy guy was but something was telling Rick he was walking straight into a trap. He almost forgot about getting a room, opting to find a deep cave once again to spend the night in—almost. But stubbornness and the longing to feel human again got the better of him. No—tonight I’m sleeping in a real bed. I’ll worry about the consequences later, he said aloud as he headed for the shimmering lights he could just make out off in the distance.

As he approached his destination, he noticed that the Lakeview Inn was not only a place to rent a room for the night but a bar/restaurant as well—and a very prosperous one at that he thought when he noticed at least twenty or more cars parked out front. This must be the place to be on a Friday night, he mumbled under his breath as he heard loud music coming from inside the building.

He wasn’t sure if a crowded bar was a good thing or not where he was concerned. On one hand, the less people he came into contact with the better he liked it but—a crowded room would make it much easier for him to blend in. He could find himself a dark corner where he could sit back, un-noticed, and watch the locals in action. Get a feel for what the area had to offer.

He already liked what he’d seen so far of the landscape of the state park. It really was quite beautiful. The woods, full of trees of every kind, were spread out for miles, with houses popping up sporadically among the green foliage. A man, or a vampire, could easily lose himself in a place like this. The population was so sparse he wouldn’t have to see anyone if he didn’t want to. If he could find a small cabin, to rent or even buy, buried deep within the woods he might actually find some sort of peace in his new life. And then, of course, there was the wildlife. The woods were teeming with it. Deer—bear—wildcats—everything a hungry vampire needed to satisfy his hunger—his craving for warm, fresh blood.

Rick shook his head to rid himself of the image of the stag he’d hunted down hours ago. He’d fed well, and that was normally enough to keep him satisfied for the entire night but if he kept thinking about food he was going to have to hunt again—and soon—and he really didn’t have time for that right now. Dawn was approaching and he needed to find out if the Inn had a room that would meet his needs provided, of course, that this Roy person didn’t pose a threat to him. Well, there’s only one way to find out. he said as he started towards the front entrance of the building.

The Inn itself was perched on the edge of a large lake, the blacktop parking lot literally flowing to the water’s edge. It was a long ‘T’ shaped building with a large peak in the center of the crossbar just above the entrance to the front door of the bar. The column of the ‘T’ shot directly out of the back of the building with windows indicating the rooms the establishment had for rent. The building was cream in color with a long deck in front running its entire length. There was a large blue neon sign just below the center peak, the words LAKEVIEW INN spelled out in glowing red letters.

As Rick approached the front deck, a young couple came stumbling out of the main entrance. It was obvious that the man was drunk as he tripped down the two front steps, his girlfriend swearing angrily as she tried to hold him up. Jake, you’re such an ass. When’r you gonna realize you can’t mix beer and whisk… but her words died on her lips as she stared at the man who had appeared out of the darkness.

He was tall and very handsome, with long dark hair and, she assumed, dark eyes but it was hard to tell in the glare of the neon lights. He was dressed all in black and had a rumpled duffle bag slung over his right shoulder. She decided she liked what she saw immediately and, with a look of disgust at her boyfriend, turned to face the stranger thinking she could do a lot better than the drunken fool beside her.

But before she could speak, the stranger raised his head, looking directly at her. Something about the look in his eyes, haunted—desperate, made her stop and think twice about striking up a conversation. Turning quickly, she grabbed her boyfriend by the arm and dragged him across the parking lot until she came to a battered old Ford truck. Unlocking the door, she shoved the man inside, slamming the door after him. Running around to the other side, she opened the door and jumped inside, jamming the key into the ignition. A moment later, she whipped out of the parking lot, the tires of the truck screeching loudly as she sped off down the highway.

Rick snickered in disgust as he watched the vehicle disappear into the night. I didn’t have to say a word and she was terrified, he thought to himself. I really do need to be more careful or there’ll be no need for secrecy. Everyone will know, just by looking at me, exactly what I am and it’ll all be over with.

Remember what Simon taught you, you fool, he said aloud as he stopped for a moment to regain his composure. Standing still, head bent, he tried to focus all his energy on calming himself. Taking a deep breath, his mind drifted back to the image of the man he once was. After a few seconds he raised his head and Rick Ferrante, the man, now stood where, moments before, there had only been the monster he’d become. A fierce determination replaced the haunted look of desperation in his eyes and he knew he was ready for the next step as he prepared to blend in with the human race. "Well, here goes nothing," he said as he turned and walked up to the building and through the front door.

As he entered a smoke filled hallway, he noticed the building was divided into two separate rooms. The bar was to the left and the dining/dancing area was off to the right. The smoke blurred his vision as his heightened senses were bombarded from all directions. The music was blaring, the lights glaring since all the rooms were filled to capacity. But nothing affected his sensory overload more than the smell that assailed his nostrils as he found himself surrounded by dozens of human beings eating and drinking as they tried to forget their mundane lives for a few short hours while they enjoyed a work free week-end.

No-one seemed to notice him as he turned sharply, his eyes searching for something—anything—that would drive the smell of fresh, warm pulsating blood from his tortured mind. He could feel the hunger roar to life inside of him—feel his fangs starting to elongate as he brushed his tongue lightly over them. He had to do something—and fast—before the bar patrons got the shock of their lives!

Turning his head, Rick found what he was looking for. He moved towards the bar where patrons occupied every one of the tall stools positioned in front of it. The bartender, a handsome man with shoulder length brown hair and strange reddish brown eyes looked up as Rick strolled by. His eyes followed the vampire’s every move, watching Rick with a strange intensity. And I thought no-one was paying any attention to my arrival, Rick told himself. Guess I was wrong.

Deciding to ignore the man for the moment, Rick walked to the end of the bar where a young woman was serving drinks. She was young and pretty, with long dark hair and deep brown eyes. For a moment the image of Adrianna flashed through his mind and he caught his breath in shock, blocking out the barmaids words, forcing her to repeat herself even louder,

What’ll you have, mister? Or are you just gonna gawk at me all night?

What—no—I’m sorry. Give me a glass of wine—red wine. Rick told her.

Ooh, classy—wine it is then, she said as she slammed a wine glass onto the bar and proceeded to fill it with the rich, red liquid.

As Rick lifted the glass to