tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80889413204097326032023-07-18T05:58:15.204+01:00Escape To RiverviewFuryRedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04221583540944615146noreply@blogger.comBlogger11125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-8335997686999029562010-07-18T16:02:00.009+01:002010-07-18T17:32:09.008+01:00Part Ten: Transitions<span style="font-style: italic;">I know they blame me. I blame myself too</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The night clung to them like cobwebs; the grief fractured spiders picking their way through the dark. Glade and Lexie clung to each other, desperately. It was always like that now.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />In the days since Heather had died, since Kale had left Riverview, there was nothing but sadness- nothing but the knowledge of death. They tried to keep it from me, of course- Glade still smiled and Lexie still mirrored, but behind their eyes I could see the fear.</span><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2sa1j68" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/2sa1j68.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It's all my fault you see- if he hadn't of come after me then none of this would have happened. Heather is dead because of me. That's just something I'll have to live with, because she can't.</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />I know what they think when they look at me. Their minds just ache for the truth, for the understanding of what I am, but I can't even begin to comprehend the fantastic possibilities. I changed. I changed in an instant, and that changes everyone else too- because no matter who I am, no matter who loves me and keeps me grounded, there is something inside of me that's alien.</span><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2r7x0z9" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/2r7x0z9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">After Kale left Glade and Lexie became closer than ever, and that just left me shapeless, because with no support I can have no form. I sympathise with their actions entirely- I would probably do the same if I were in their shoes, but... I need them. </span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />All these things that used to belong to me don't fit anymore. I don't fit anymore. I'm an obscurity- a dark mark on the landscape- and I don't know how to adjust. </span><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=zbyir" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/zbyir.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">There's so much confusion right now, but one thing I know for sure is that I cannot go on like this. I've seen so much but I still have so much more to learn. And so I must do just that- I must seek out the answers to the questions that haunt us all. Maybe then, maybe when I finally learn the truth, can we all be at peace.</span><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=1j2161" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/1j2161.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />The bar hummed with activity, the noise of a dozen quiet whispers reaching a dull roar. Atmosphere, on the rocks.<br /><br />La Crypte was known in Riverview as the bad element; something Maia was only too aware of. Normally young girls such as herself wouldn't even dream of living in Riverview, let alone paying a visit to its dark heart, but regardless- that was where answers could be found so that's where she went.<br /><br />As she slipped into the heavy darkness Maia surveyed the shadows. Danger lay faintly dormant, though always aware and hungry, but somehow Maia felt no fear. She knew why she was there, she knew what she had to do, and nothing could stand in her way.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=14sjgw3" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/14sjgw3.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />If you want to hear secrets, nothing loosens eager tongues more than a hefty shot of persuasion. Maia discounted plans of subterfuge and trickery as she realised there was only one thing she had to do to get the answers she sought. Listen.<br /><br />Maia had had so much practise at this- so many years of just waiting and watching that now it came naturally. Getting a drink from the bar, Maia sat down just metres away from the fiend that had murdered Heather, and listened. The darkest part of her ached for revenge; burned and scolded her to do it's will, but Maia knew that results could not be obtained that way. And so she sat and sipped quietly as the vampire spoke.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2znwccl" target="_blank"><img src="http://i27.tinypic.com/2znwccl.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Engrossed in the conversation she barely noticed him enter the room... Then, looking up from the table, Maia felt her bones twist with fear as she came face to face with a thing of nightmares. He had found her.<br /><br />Breaths came short and harsh, the air just falling out of Maia as she turned round in her chair. Was he still looking at her? What was he going to do? Would it hurt? Would she cry? Suddenly answers were the last thing on Maia's mind- she just wanted to escape.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2n71209" target="_blank"><img src="http://i26.tinypic.com/2n71209.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Shivers of fear shook Maia from within, the core of her body feeling like ice and fire as she tried so hard to retain her calm. Amazingly it worked- her exterior was calm and composed, though as she got up from her seat her legs wobbled and shook her with them. The King watched as his daughter breezed past him, and said... nothing.<br /><br />Maia could scarcely breathe as she passed the nightmare by, her fears on the cusp of coming to life but never quite making it. The King didn't shout out, didn't grab her. Only then did she remember something- he was looking for a tiny girl, she was now so much more than that. Of course he didn't recognise her- how could he?<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=53pgd4" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.tinypic.com/53pgd4.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Slipping onto a stool at the bar Maia finally felt some of the tension leave her. As she looked back she saw The King take a seat in the corner and realised she was of no consequence to him whatsoever- her existence was a meer tiny light just outside the reach of his shadow. Relieved, Maia's thoughts again returned to the mission in mind, and she began to listen once more to the plotting of the enemy.<br /><br />The voices were lower now that The King had joined his subjects- the whispers more urgent and hushed. Maia strained to hear, and frowned when she was distracted by a man to her left who interupted her with joyful tones.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=34owyte" target="_blank"><img src="http://i28.tinypic.com/34owyte.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />The stranger was persistant, and oddly cheerful- something rarely seen in a place like La Crypte. His voice was musical, calming and serene, and as he spoke Maia found herself wanting to listen.<br />Of course, with the man pulling her thoughts from the The King and his plans, Maia's mind was tricked into distraction- the sound of voices getting fainter and fainter as her smile grew wider.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=16ie4b9" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/16ie4b9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Suddenly, in a flash, one word slipped through from the King's corner. It caught the edge of Maia's senses and snagged, and she grasped it before it drifted away.<br /><br />War.<br /><br />It was enough, that one word, to make the fear rise like bile in her throat. Maia's heart dropped as she listened on to the idle chatter of epic proportions- talk of death and fighting and an army... Big things were coming, and so many stood to suffer.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=24cbdiq" target="_blank"><img src="http://i30.tinypic.com/24cbdiq.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Maia had heard enough. This wasn't what she had come to find out, but it was plenty- it was more than what she needed. Now the worries were laid bare all around her, the troubles piling up and making her feel sick, with no way of reaching the summit. But something there spoke of hope- something in The King's words resonated; gave a solution.<br />Tearing herself away from the pleasant man and his kind words, Maia forced a quick goodbye, and ran.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=295y239" target="_blank"><img src="http://i27.tinypic.com/295y239.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Night at its deepest, the stars burning brightly but affording no comfort. Maia wandered through the wilderness as she made her way to the graveyard, conducting plans in her mind but only serving to produce mild panic. It gnawed at her- the knowledge that something was desperately wrong- but she could not shake it.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=2yzaeft" target="_blank"><img src="http://i26.tinypic.com/2yzaeft.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Eventually Maia reached the mausoleum, and made her way down to the catacombs beneath.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=j5bhv7" target="_blank"><img src="http://i27.tinypic.com/j5bhv7.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />For hours she remained in it's depths- the catacombs providing solace from the world outside as Maia sought out the scrap of hope she needed. When she eventually returned to the land above it was nearing dawn... but not close enough.<br />Maia knew them even before they stepped out from the shadows. The stood still- watching, waiting.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=16ifr80" target="_blank"><img src="http://i32.tinypic.com/16ifr80.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Vampires. Crueler than night, sharper than day. They waited for Maia, and she should have known.<br />Maia thought back to that day when she and Glade had nearly lost their lives- that day when Silver and Drake had first crept out from the darkness and threatened their existence. She should have known, she should have known. Vampires always had a way of seeking out the weak.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=29pclk1" target="_blank"><img src="http://i29.tinypic.com/29pclk1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As the vampires began to advance, Maia had one last demented and desperate thought.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">It's a good thing I'm already in a graveyard...</span><br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=5od1f9" target="_blank"><img src="http://i25.tinypic.com/5od1f9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">The eagle-eyed amongst you may have noticed a couple of cameo appearances there.</span><br /><a style="font-family: lucida grande;" href="http://www.thesims3.com/assetDetail.html?assetId=1957702">Marko Caldwell by ChicagoStorm</a><br /><a style="font-family: lucida grande;" href="http://pentametersims.blogspot.com/2010/06/nicole-pentameter-my-simself.html">Nicole Pentameter by pentameter</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-63904497081379009832010-04-23T23:46:00.004+01:002010-04-27T10:43:31.782+01:00Part Nine: FluxDrake closed his eyes and sighed as he thought of his past- the things he'd done. The memories flickered through his mind leaving dirty stains, the echoing voices of those he had hurt pierced his ears like thorns. He opened his eyes, saw the hate standing in front of him and the knife that glistened with malevolence. He closed them again, and waited for the blade to pierce his flesh.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/34o3nec.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />On the wall a clock pulsed out a dull rhythm, each second like cruel laughter. Drake felt like he was holding his breath for too long, and then he realised that he'd been holding it for years now, and a bit more couldn't make a difference. Just a bit longer now, just a few more moments until the pain and the relief. One more second.<br />Drake opened his eyes again, and saw that the knife was not heading for his vitals like he expected, in fact it was much further away, in fact it was lying on the floor. He had been so tense he hadn't even heard it drop. Over by the doorway Glade consoled his friend.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/qp2l3m.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Kale was not a murderer. He'd had his chance to wound before and he had let it pass him by, for Heather. Now she was gone he didn't think he'd be able to resist a second time, but as he'd thought of his son he realised that he could never be a demon. Kale felt like a coward for not having the strength to kill- to seek revenge for his wife- but deep down he knew it was what Heather would have wanted.<br />Turning back to the vampire Kale left with a warning. This was not over, and if the vampire did not cease to exist in Riverview then he would find a way to end him, that was a promise.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/dfvpdg.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Back at the house Lexie and the newly grown-up Maia awaited the return of the others. The initial shock of seeing Maia transform like that had deeply distressed Lexie; really it was just a step too far in an already disturbing day, but after a short while she managed to calm down and control her panic. Lacking understanding of the whole situation was hard, but Lexie still thought of Maia as a little girl despite her current predicament, and so she did her best to care for the child; getting her some clothes to wear and making her some food. In time the two women were settled, and as the sun began to announce the beginning of a brand new day they heard the sound of voices, and footsteps on the stairs.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/29vgeqf.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Glade entered the hallway he balked at the sight of Maia. His heart lurched and his throat grew dry, because to Glade this was a stranger- a stranger. Given recent events even the most steadfast would be prone to panic when coming across an uninvited visitor, and as Glade stared at the girl his first thought was of Maia. What if this was another cruel trick? What if something had happened to her?<br />Glade gulped in oxygen in alarm as he thought of his little sister. If anything happened to Maia he thought he'd die and if this stranger had done something to her then she'd die too and ohmygod it's not a stranger at all it's Maia- it's Maia. Glade didn't know how or why, he only knew that looking into her eyes told him all he needed to know. Maia was safe and oh-so-alive. He hugged her close to make sure.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/2dhsljk.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Later that day the parts tried to pull themselves together as they said goodbye to Heather. It was a quiet affair, only leaves rustling in a cool breeze and the occasional sound of hacked sobs shaking Kale's body as he mourned his wife. The others tried to be there for him but there was nothing they could do- his heart was broken.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/b5qf5g.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />When his friends were gone and Kale was alone he revelled in silence. All day long they'd pleaded with him to let them stay- to let them help- but the assistance Kale needed could not be provided by human cause. What Kale needed was something more; something mystical.<br />As a ghost he knew that life did not necessarily end with just death, and he hoped desperately that he could prove that now. It wasn't possible though- the sad irony was that the only person who could have saved Heather was herself, but Kale had determination on his side. Now was not the time though, and it couldn't happen in Riverview. Kale needed to give himself and his son a better life, and to do that he would have to leave.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/j9ag53.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />In Glade's house ignorance was bliss. After the horror of the day Lexie couldn't face going home alone and Glade wouldn't let her anyway, so as the sun began to sink into the earth the couple crawled into bed together, and tried to forget.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/51dfyb.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Maia, now much too large for her crib, was resigned to the sofa, and she scrunched up and tried to make herself as small as possible; uncomfortable in her new form. Yes she had wished for it, but she didn't really expect it to happen- and even as her bones had begun to crack and twist she hadn't expected it to happen, and even after it was over she hadn't expected it to happen. Now though she was in a state of flux, stuck between being a child and being a grown-up, and clueless as to what to do next. All she knew now was that, should a vampire ever try to mess with her again, she could most certainly defend herself.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/8xj3g4.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Across town Drake was still alone. It had been nearly twenty-four hours since Silver had left, and with the night now creeping across the town once again he knew he could begin to look for her. Something made him resist though, something like fear.<br />Drake's fear stemmed from knowledge, an understanding of Silver that went beyond normal human connection. He knew her because he had made her, and so he was only too aware of what she was capable of.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/iqv7ep.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hurting others was of no consequence to Silver, in fact she revelled in it, and so when she decided to play a visit to her King she knew where it would lead, and she did not care.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/9i7k9x.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Later that night, satisfied in their seduction, Avalon and Silver discussed future plans. The war with the others was far from over, and Avalon was confident that this recent casualty was to be the first of many. And of course there was that other matter to consider...<br />In a town like Riverview gossip is everything; rumours were often more a warning than a pasttime, because with so much to hide there was always someone after you. Lately talk had been of The Shadow. People said he was coming, and he would tear the town apart as he searched for the one he'd lost. No one knew who he was, only that they should fear him.<br />Avalon and Silver were not afraid.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/9tn02h.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />In the days that passed sadness clouded the world. Heather's death still burned like sickness, and the sheer absence of her spirit was a constant reminder of everything they'd lost. Perhaps the only one immune was Maia.<br />Following her transition Maia had struggled to find her place. No longer a child she longed to greet the world and be part of it, but the mourning of the others was a constant cloud, and she couldn't get out from under it's shade.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/2hqz874.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />But although Maia was trapped in her existence, Kale had other plans. When Heather had brought him back it had been a miracle, but one purely of her own design. Now he knew it was no accident, and that Heather had learnt the methods she'd utilized somehow.<br />He remembered the room where she'd spent her life up until she became his; there were always so many books there. Kale was willing to bet that some of those books were about the very thing he needed, he only hoped that they had remained intact all these years.<br />When the time was right, Kale gathered the only belonging he needed anymore- his son Cayden- and left the house.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i44.tinypic.com/v8mxps.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Kale slipped silently out into the night he of course thought of Glade, Lexie, and Maia. He despaired of leaving them, especially given the current tensions arising in Riverview, but he knew it was necessary. He left a note on Glade's doorstep, and hoped his friends would be okay.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/2eplp94.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-77030806266232123272010-03-26T18:56:00.008+00:002010-03-26T19:59:29.789+00:00Part Eight: A Simple One Night FangControl is key. Every decision we make, every action, it's all about control. So if someone comes along and tries to take that power away from you, well, it's bound to drive you a little crazy. But what if the simple mental illness is the thing that causes you to lose control in the first place- what then? Without your mind what do you have left? Only the madness.<br />Welcome to The Asylum. Please check it at reception; leave your sense and your sanity at the door.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i43.tinypic.com/fa5sig.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />For Silver it was the numbers that did it; it was the numbers that shaped and warped her fragile mind. She thought that she could make it all better, all she had to do was count to four twice and everything would be okay again. It wasn't that easy though.<br />There was the counting when she woke in the morning. There was the counting when she got dressed, ate a meal, talked with friends. In the end the numbers weren't enough, and with them came rituals and routines- all there for protection. Got to count and plan, count and plan, otherwise something bad might happen. But when something bad really did happen Silver barely noticed, and she found herself in a cold, hard cell counting the tiles on the walls. By then the control was lost and it was too late, and no amount of numbers would save her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i44.tinypic.com/w05k4l.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Silver suffered from what would later be known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but for now it more clinical than that. A big old rubber stamp on the back of the hand- 'Insane', and that was all. There was no cognitive therapy or psychoanalysis, you were simple 'mental'. No more discussion was needed; just lock up the crazies and let them slowly die.<br />And so Silver became accustomed to her life- she had little choice in the matter. In the asylum she was not her own person, just a number in white clothing; unique just like all the others. She didn't talk to them, she wouldn't know what to say. Instead Silver spent her days with her tarot cards, looking to the universe for signs of change. Unfortunately, the changes soon to come were not what she expected.<a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i41.tinypic.com/28bs2zp.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />There was a man in charge of The Asylum, a man with a quiet manner and a playful smile always about the lips. Dr Drake Hartmann had built the institute himself and had been there from the beginning, always concerned with the care and upkeep of his patients. At least, to the untrained eye...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i39.tinypic.com/2nkurgm.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Silver had been at the institute for nearly a week when it happened. She was busy going about her daily routine when he came to her, got close and whispered in her ear. Just a straightforward proposition- something about an itch to scratch and a helping hand- and by giving Dr Hartmann what he wanted then maybe Silver could get what she needed.<br />Being insane wasn't easy, and in time Silver had come to deal with her issues by substituting them with a little addiction. Of course, now she was locked away she could no longer get her wares, and as day followed night followed day followed night the itch of withdrawal began to creep, and gnaw, and bite. This was where Dr Hartmann came in- if the inmates could get intimate, then maybe he would prescribe them a little something. Tit for tat, if you will.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i42.tinypic.com/vy9slt.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />It was a well-known fact around The Asylum that inmates were expected to keep their mouths shut and their legs open. Dr Hartmann was King and no one dared disobey him, because, even if they rebelled; even if they wanted to complain, who would believe them? They were mental patients, he was a respected Doctor. The hierarchy ruled all, and all the little pawns would just have to suck it (up), and obey.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i43.tinypic.com/se2lq8.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Silver took longer to cave than the others. She was stronger than anyone had anticipated, but as each day crawled past the discomfort deepened. In time it was all consuming, and Silver knew that she couldn't go on any longer. She needed her hit of the big H to see her through the madness, and that meant giving it up to the Doctor.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i40.tinypic.com/6rro7a.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Dr Hartmann couldn't even feign surprise when she came to him, because they all did in the end. Still, this one meant more for some reason- the fact that Silver had resisted for so long made him want her intensely, until she became his own addiction. After that first night it only got worse, and Silver and Drake found themselves in a cycle of dependency- each feeding off of what the other could offer.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i40.tinypic.com/13ypbmh.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Days turned to weeks turned to months and still the cycle remained, and each time Silver sold herself she felt a little bit of her humanity slip away. The depravity of it all- it played on her mind, and she knew she could not go on like this.<br />One night, when the moon loomed large and imposing in the midnight sky, Silver planned her escape. The security in The Asylum was lax at best- Dr Hartmann relying more on fear than anything else to keep the inmates in check- so Silver was able to slip away with relative ease. Now all she had to worry about was being caught escaping, because surely the punishment served for such would be worse than she could imagine.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i43.tinypic.com/34fe58m.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Silver reached the perimeter of the insititute's grounds and crawled over the hedge, mindful of her surroundings are always vigilantly watching. In time though she felt able to relax as there were no alarms, no shouts with people running after her. She was free, at last.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i42.tinypic.com/2r289hs.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />She never heard the shadow come up behind her, only felt cold fingers gripping her arm like a vice and a quick scratch running parallel to a vein on her neck. She turned, moaned; the scratch deepened, made a hole; the blood rose up to fill the gap. Consciousness gave out and pain set in.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i43.tinypic.com/72qd68.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Silver was gone; the news rang through the halls like a siren. For most residents the siren sang of hope, of a possibility of escape, but for Dr Hartmann the news was toxic. If she was out there she could tell people what he had done, and that simply would not do. He wanted to find her, to punish her, but more than that he just wanted her back. He had grown to depend on her presence, and his cruel world was less fun without a victim. But Dr Hartmann needn't have worried, because Silver was closer than he realised...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i42.tinypic.com/2qn3yie.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />It was nighttime, and Dr Hartmann was in his office just finishing up for the day. His 'case studies' had been conducted in their usual fashion, and there was nothing left to do but go home, rest, and think about Silver, but as he turned towards the door she was already waiting for him.<br />He looked better than he had ever seen her- stronger and more assured somehow, a world away from the frail and fractured soul that had come to his door all those weeks ago, as she spoke her voice stayed firm and didn't falter. There was anger- Dr Hartmann expected that- but what he didn't expect was the emotion and questions.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i44.tinypic.com/j6nyvp.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />All Silver wanted to know was why- what had she done to deserve Dr Hartmann's cruel treatment of her? The Doctor offered no answers, and he couldn't help but break into his customary sly grin. That was his first mistake.<br />A vicious growl reverberated from deep in Silver's thoat, and she gnashed her teeth as she regarded her enemy and lover. The situation vexed Silver greatly- she had started off hating Dr Hartmann, but in time she had grown to depend on his twisted affections. Now all she wanted was for him to explain himself, but instead he did the worst thing possible. He turned his back on her.<br />That was his second mistake.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i39.tinypic.com/13zvqlz.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Death hurt like hell, but returning from it was far worse. As Drake awoke as a vampire he felt... wrong. His blood did not flow, his breath was stale and pointless, and all of him ached. Truly that was what being a vampire was all about- being punished for your past sins. Sure you can live forever, but can you live with yourself?<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i43.tinypic.com/sg7194.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Drake looked at Silver, her sweetly sick smile lighting up her face, a sudden sense of shame passed over him. The things he had done... death had really laid it all out for him- his immoral actions and their reflected consequences. Perhaps for the first time Drake felt guilty, and he realised he had an awful lot to atone for.<br />What he couldn't understand though was why Silver had turned him- why hadn't she just let him die? It was what he deserved, after all. But then, as Silver stared at him, he saw in her eyes what he had suspected for a while. Silver needed him and, perhaps more shockingly, he needed her too.<br />Addiction takes many forms.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i44.tinypic.com/sfwmec.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />That night, Drake and Silver left The Asylum. As vampires they knew they could be together for more than a lifetime, and Drake knew that he would spend that time reconciling with his demons and the things he had done. He had made a lot of mistakes in his life, but he had so much time in his death to make up for it. He just hoped Silver would be willing to let him.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" src="http://i40.tinypic.com/ok33on.jpg" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-522389473923512622010-03-12T23:13:00.000+00:002010-03-13T12:48:26.096+00:00Part Seven: Death Sets You FreeIt was a very simple job- a little snatch and grab, a lot of reward. Silver didn't know exactly what the King wanted with the child she now held in her grasp, but in truth she didn't care. It had been fun; the terror on that girl's face as she sunk her teeth in had been a reward in itself; an unexpected bonus of a takeaway dinner. Yes, it had been very simple indeed. Now all she had to do was deliver the package.<br />Silver walked away from the scene without hurry or agitation. She talked to herself as she went- rehearsing her planned conversation with the King as the child squirmed in her arms. Dig the nails in quick- that would make the brat stop screaming. A little pain served and then on with the journey. Close to home now, not much further.<br />But then the sudden darkness. Silver only managed to let out a small gasp of surprise as she felt cool fingers press down on her neck, cruising across her skin until they found the spot, and she slipped into unconsciousness.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i41.tinypic.com/2enls84.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As the creature's grip loosened and she slumped to the ground, Maia tumbled from her arms and onto the damp grass. The child let out a squeak as she regarded the body on the floor, and a further sound echoed when she saw the other figure now towering over her. She'd seen him before, she knew that now. He frightened her, and she froze.<br />Hands reached down and lifted Maia, and as she was taken she could only wish to herself- 'if only I were older, stronger, taller- then I could save myself'. Maia had been saved by others all her life, but she knew it couldn't last forever. She knew the eventually she would have to learn to protect herself, before her luck ran out.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/206ok5k.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Kale muttered to himself as he neared the end of his journey, thinking of the wasted trip across town and wondering why he had been called into work for no reason. It had been annoyingly pointless, but at least now he could come home and spend some time with his wife and baby. A smile now as Kale thought of that, but then the expression slipped as he reached his home. Opposite him the vampire watched.<br />Kale could only stare helplessly as the creature glared, and his heart reached desperately for Maia as she screamed and thrashed in the vampire's arms. It was a stand-off, and one that would not end well... or so Kale thought. Abruptly, seemingly without reason, the vampire took Maia, placed her safely on the ground, and ran off into the night.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/11h3p1z.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />There would be time for analysis- time to make sense of what had just happened- but for now Kale was just glad that Maia was okay, and glad that the vampire had not attacked them. He picked Maia up, hugged the girl closely and tried to calm her down, and walked up the steps towards his front door. Out of the corner of his eye he saw the body, and his heart pitched deep into the pit of his stomach.<br />A laugh escaped Kale's lips, but it was short and sharp- more like a bark. A painful grimace contorted his face as he observed his wife; waited for her to move, get up, share the joke with him. But the body stayed still. He touched her hand- it was cold. He let it go- it thudded to the floor. She was dead.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/2jbtqpy.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Kale began to cry. His heart heaved and his hands trembled but the tears never came, instead his eyes just ached and his throat just burned. In the distance he heard the frantic cries and laboured breathing of Glade and his date as they ran across the road towards him.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/ztt9w9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />When Glade reached the porch he immediately turned to Kale to ask him questions whilst Lexie leaned heavily against the railing and tried to catch her breath. For a second there was hysteria as Glade looked for Maia but this passed when he saw her sitting safely on the floor, though her clear distress disturbed him. Glade turned back to Lexie and grasped at her hand, smiling and repeating that it was okay over and over. Lexie gripped his hand firmly, placed her palm against his face, and gently turned his head around. Glade saw that it was definitely not okay.<br />The body lay on the floor and its cold presence mocked them.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/ehcme.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />There were no words; Glade could only hold out his hands to Kale and try to keep them from shaking. He pulled Kale towards him, the need to wrap his arms around his friend seemed all consuming, and Glade wondered if that was because, without another to hold on to, both would just fall apart.<br />Lexie took Maia into the house and checked on the baby asleep inside. Outside Glade held Kale and tried to keep his world from ending.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/14sjn9f.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />After a little while Kale made moves of independence- calmly moving out of Glade's embrace and standing alone. He avoided Glade's eyes, thinking he wouldn't be able to bear any more sadness than his own, but that emotion didn't stay steady for long. Soon a harsher force pushed its way to the surface- one that scorched and itched, begging for action. Anger is an easier thing to feel than sorrow, indeed.<br />Kale calmly turned to his friend and thanked him for his comfort, but asked him to leave him for a moment and perhaps check on the children. Of course Glade wasn't about to refuse his broken companion, so he went inside the house and joined Lexie. He saw her shaking and held her too; thoughts of Kale escaping his mind for a minute. That was all the time Kale needed to steal away from his living nightmare.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/90a70w.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Across town Drake paced the small scope of his crypt and licked his wounds. After bringing Silver back to their lair she had not treated him kindly, instead turning on him with hostility after she had regained consciousness. She demanded to know why he had stopped her taking the child but he had no explanation that would satisfy her, and so Silver had scowled, pouted, and ran off back to her King. Drake was used to their fights, but in near two decades together it had never stopped hurting.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/2dipmxt.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Time is insignificant when you live in darkness, but still Drake knew of its passing. He waited for a while, wondering if Silver would come back to him, but before long it was evident that she wasn't finished sulking. He liked to think that was all it was- petulance and defiance- but since that King had come into their lives he had felt Silver changing, and suspected she hadn't returned because she was happier with the Master.<br />Drake sighed deeply, though no air passed his lips, and prepared himself for rest now that the sun was imminent. Wandering vacantly over to his coffin he trailed a finger through the layers of dust and wrote her name in it. When he heard the door creak he smiled and turned to greet his love, but it was hate instead that confronted him. He began to speak but halted quickly as he saw the weapon in hate's hand.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i39.tinypic.com/2kixld.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Back at the house Lexie was alone. It hadn't taken long for Glade to notice Kale's absence and, after grasping Lexie feverishly and instructing her to stay in the house with the doors locked, he had raced off after his friend. Lexie didn't know much about ghosts- she didn't know if Kale could even be killed- but she knew that Glade would not let his friend risk danger alone. She admired that about him, and tried to imagine his strength was her own as she fought her fears.<br />Meanwhile, in the room behind her where Maia sat playing, a strange violet glow began to materialise and fill the space with its light.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/1zby2q.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Most little girls wish that they were special, but only a few truly are.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i40.tinypic.com/286xsgw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />In the hallway Lexie was disrupted by a confusing sound- noise like a hundred tiny bones cracking all at once... Bemused, Lexie placed the sleeping baby Cayden back in his crib and turned to face the discord. There stood a stranger, and she was smiling.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i43.tinypic.com/99nwub.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />In the vampire's lair Drake faced his demons. The ghost before him trembled with emotion but the hand that held the knife was strong, and Drake knew he was prepared to use it. At first he opened his mouth to protest but one look at the boy's face told him no.<br />When he'd stopped Silver he hadn't seen the body on the porch, but he had smelt the blood; now he could only taste the fury. Someone had died tonight and it wasn't over.<br />A rush of commotion at the door and Glade burst in, sweat and fear too. He quicky scanned the room, frantic eyes darting between Kale and Drake, Kale and Drake, Kale and The Knife and Drake. It glowed- that was odd- the knife seemed to possess the same ghostly power that Kale was composed of. Glade wondered if that would affect its savage potential.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/3zqzs.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Fear did not immediately present itself, and instead Drake stared into the eyes of a hollow man as he chewed his bottom lip. He bit it til it bled but still nothing changed- the ghost's anger remained and so did the danger, and Drake couldn't help but think that maybe this was meant to be. He had done so much in his life and now his sins outnumbered his years; maybe it was time to pay for them.<br />The blade hovered and made promises of retribution, but the vampire stayed still. He thought about fighting back; relented. As final fatality loomed Drake thought about the black marks of his past, and the one that had brought him to this...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i42.tinypic.com/66g3s1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-35713944307857727772010-02-22T22:37:00.000+00:002010-02-22T23:10:53.111+00:00Part Six: The End Of You, TonightGlade was feeling somewhat torn. Though his heart shivered with delight at the thought of seeing Lexie again, leaving Maia still made him feel uncomfortable. Each time he would hug her closely as he thought of the route their lives had taken- the struggle, the suffering, and now the resultant joy. He knew he was just being foolish- they were safe now- but he couldn't help but worry. And though you'd never know it, though Maia was only young, she knew more than anyone else of the dangers that stalked them always. She would never tell Glade though, even if she could form the words. Instead her tiny fingers grasped his clothing as he said goodbye, and when he handed her over to Kale and Heather she just watched him go and hoped he would be okay.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/14ka2yp.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Inside the house, Kale and Heather watched as their friend disappeared into the darkness. Their plan was then to settle down and enjoy the evening together, but someone had other ideas...<br />Barely five minutes after Glade had left, Kale got a phone call that would take him away from the house. Being a ghost, as you can imagine it's somewhat difficult to get a real job, but the family still needed money. And so Kale had an unofficial job- no one knew what it was, but you can just imagine what sort of vocation a ghost might be suited for.<br />A few minutes after the call came to tell Kale there was a job for him to do, he said goodbye to his wife with a kiss and headed out into the night.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/28k56du.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As Kale walked off into the distance, the disaster watched- and waited.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2qsxzld.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />When Glade reached the meeting place he came to stop as he saw Lexie in front of him. The sound of the swing creaked through the cool night as Lexie played in abandon- a carefree smile lighting up her face, and Glade was captivated. Eventually she saw him and halted, a mildly confused expression playing across her features as ambled across the grass to greet him.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/6dwqoz.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />With Lexie within reach Glade could do nothing else put wrap his arms around her and pull her into his embrace. She folded into his chest easily and rested her head against his shoulder, putting her initial surprise at seeing him to one side for a moment. But it did make her wonder though... How had he known she was here? She had only just decided to head his way less than an hour ago, so coming across him like this was a bit of a weird coincidence.<br />Little did Lexie know, the meeting was more designed than either of them could have realised...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/oi4x8o.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />For some time after that Lexie forgot all about her confusion, and instead her mind ran with questions of a different kind. It became like any other first date- full of lingering looks and tender touches, but all the time her head swam with neurotic thoughts. They told her that it wouldn't last and that she wasn't worth it; the echoes of her past conspired to drag her down, but she knew that to live she had to let live- and allow the past to be just that.<br />The one who had nearly destroyed her... there would be time for that menace. For now she focused her attention on the boy who held her hand, and hoped he would not hurt her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/jhbmmx.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As the stars conspired to form a map across the skies, Lexie and Glade followed its light as it brought them together. Limbs crossed on a rusted bench, their breaths came in unison- echoing the rhythm of their blood as it pulsed. Hearts speechless with enthusiasm they sat entwined, and before long their lips reached- found the rapture.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/mmtzic.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Of course after that moment the words ended the bliss- they always do. Without speech life is simple and thrives on touch, but with the absence of silence comes chaos. Lexie only asked why Glade had decided to come to the park that night, but the instant look of bewilderment he gave her told her something was wrong. It was then that he told her- about the note he had found in his letterbox that had instructed him to come to this meeting- the note from her. But it wasn't from Lexie, and it never had been.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/z8lyo.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />When Lexie told him that she had never sent him that letter he smirked at first- wondering who it was from and thinking of what a strange coincidence it was. But then the terror hit, and he felt his heart plunge.<br />As Glade turned and sprinted away from the scene, Lexie let out a startled sound before her legs found the power to run too. Racing off into the night, Glade and Lexie sped towards home... but by then it was 10:46, and it was already too late.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/6s9ohu.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />At 10:31 Heather was pacing the hallway inside her house. She and Kale had been together for so long now it felt abnormal to be apart, and every second of his absence was unnerving. It was similar to that feeling you get when you know that there's something you've forgotten- the creeping shiver that tiptoes up the back of your neck. Only... this time it was worse than before.<br />With her attention focused solely on Cayden and her own paranoia, Heather forgot all about Maia for a moment, and that was all the time she needed to crawl outside.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/n6z4m1.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />At 10.33 Heather turned and saw Maia's feet in the doorway as they slipped out of view. She started to shout then realised it wouldn't do any good- Maia was only a little girl after all. Pausing to place Cayden safely in his crib, Heather hurried out of the door and after Maia, spotted her sitting on the porch, and picked her up. At 10:34 Heather turned back towards the doorway, and saw the waiting danger.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2hoi49f.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The woman was still- her eyes deep and dark, yet reaching and deadly. Her stare haunted Heather, and she turned to put Maia down on the floor behind her; creating a barrier between the girl and the monster as she gave way to memories. Heather had lived in Riverview long enough to at least know of all the residents, but even if she didn't she would have recognised this creature anywhere. Glade's troubled description of the night he had met the vampires played through her mind, with a shadow soundtrack of alarm bells ringing.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/104jlvr.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Though she was deathly afraid, Heather spirit was strong. She had been through too much to just give up now, and so she tried to remain tall and not tremble as she prepared herself for the attack she knew was coming. At 10.36 the vampire advanced- her steps across the wooden floor seeming so large and imposing as they trampled Heather's resolve. With the teeth coming, there was nothing to do but panic.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/1679vd2.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />A bite, a scratch, a wound- all words; all pointless. In the moment when the vampire's teeth pierced Heather's skin the words fell out, replaced by a scorching agony that grew and grew. The limbs became weak, the attempts to fight off the enemy became futile. At 10:38 it was over, and all that was left was the dim pulse.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/abmuqa.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The vampire stepped over the flesh, picked up the prize, and walked away.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/313ha3d.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />At 10:39 the pulse grew weary.<br />Dur-dum... Dur-dum... Dur-dum... Dur....<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/262m687.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-18490152635012769332010-02-07T13:52:00.000+00:002010-02-07T14:17:07.532+00:00Part Five: Scheme of the CenturySix weeks earlier...<br /><br />At 6am Avalon rose from bed, pushed the sleep from his eyes, and set about beginning another day ruling his kingdom. He had such plans for today; a bit of torture, a bit of berating Glade, a lot of Marylena... But there was something wrong there.<br />As Avalon looked at Marylena, who stood in the corner of the bedroom ticking over, he knew that something was amiss. The clockwork doll was quiet as she always was- the flesh stretched over her metal lips was no basis for sound- but it was something more than that. She stood frozen, her eyes clinging to the closed doorway, her body barely moving... but her heart- it's hollow tick grew louder; formed a crescendo, like an alarm going off...<br />It was then that Avalon discovered Glade and Maia were gone.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/11h7wc3.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Marylena could only listen in abject terror as Avalon's vicious howl echoed through the rooms. She closed her eyes, the lids creaking shut in deep satisfaction as she thought of her children, hopefully now safe on the other side of the world. She was able to experience joy for the first time in years, but this was mirrored by an overwhelming fear of what Avalon would do to her if he knew she was involved in Glade and Maia's disappearance. But then she realised- how could it be any worse than what he did to her now on a daily basis?<br />Walking out into the hallway she prepared to greet her King, returning to faithful servant mode as always, but the malice etched on his face made her tremble inside. She tried her best to tell lies with her features, but though her mechanical shell masked most sins, her eyes always told the truth. In end she had to turn from him, but it was too late- he had seen what she tried desperately to conceal.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/nbqfk9.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Marylena turned her back on him Avalon felt his blood burn. How could this... this thing betray him like this? He didn't know exactly what involvement Marylena had in the escape, or even how she had managed it, only that she was guilty of disobeying her King, and that deserved a punishment worse than death. In truth all Avalon's punishments were worse than death...<br />But there was no time for that. The more pressing matter was catching up to Glade and Maia- his defective bride would have to wait. He gave her a hit of his justice to educate her for now, and then he was on his way out the door.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/e1cins.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />For weeks after that Avalon scoured the neighbouring lands searching for any trace of Glade and Maia. The reason behind his actions seemed to get lost as time went on- his plans of passing the kingdom on to Glade when he died were redundant, and it was pure revenge in the driving seat.<br />Maybe he had been foolish thinking Glade could rule anyway- the boy was weak and relied too much on his feelings. No, Avalon would hold onto his kingdom until it was wrenched from his aching grasp. But before that time came he would make Glade pay for defying him.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2zgxgyv.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />And so to now- the moment when Avalon finally caught up with Glade. As he watched his son embrace the woman next to him, Avalon felt his teeth grind together in a fury. He could smell the girl from here- the scent of her perfume intoxicating him; cutting out all reason until only the pleasure drive remained. He could take her now...<br />No. No this had to be planned- Avalon couldn't let his libido take over, nor could he just rush up to Glade and destroy him there and then. This would require logic and strategy. He needed to take his sweet time in ending Glade; first ripping everything he cared about away from him. But he couldn't do it alone. A scheme of this magnitude would require accomplices.<br />Avalon needed to go into the depths of Riverview, and seek the demons out.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/o9fuk7.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />La Crypte was the dark place- the void where all the bad elements came to writhe in the shadows. In a town like Riverview the sinful souls often outnumbered the good, so you could be sure that the bar always had more than a few creatures lurking inside. This night was no different.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/14b5m1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Avalon entered the premises he took a seat at the bar and ordered a drink. He made the pretense of acting like he was just thirsty, maybe in need of a little company, but really he was listening. The hum of conversation pulsed around him and Avalon sorted through it- discarding the useless on his search for something better. In time he found it.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/wir2fm.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />There, in the darkest corner of the room, the vampires reigned supreme. Drake and Silver were well known thoughout the town, so much so that even the cruelest hearts of Riverview kept their distance. For most people being wicked is something they choose, even if they don't realise it at the time, but for vampires it's different. With one broken bite the soul dies but the body is reborn; without consequence, without reason. The vampire lives for pleasure, for pain, for blood. Silver and Drake embodied this spirit fully, and Avalon knew that would make them the perfect partners in crime.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/28iwbgw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Avalon walked over and took a seat at the vampires' table, Silver turned sharply and spat out a hostile hiss. She wasn't use to this sort of behaviour, and most people paid for it with their lives, but when Avalon didn't retreat at her expression she was left puzzling.<br />Avalon only took a brief moment to introduce himself to the creatures, and then he launched into what he wanted from them. He paused and stared slightly as Drake let out a bitter laugh from the other side of the table, and after this he focused all his attention on Silver. She responded rather more favourably to Avalon's words- a cunning grin present on her face as she listened to his plan.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2qissjq.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />On the opposite side of the room the other patrons could only observe as the King and the vampires plotted the destruction of another. They knew what was coming, but they couldn't have stopped it even if they wanted to. Avalon and Silver were two creatures both diabolical in design, and destructive in nature. The days to come were likely to be full of pain and suffering, and just one thing was certain. Not everyone would be getting out alive.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/nxsxhe.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Back at home Glade was in a jubilant mood. After his meeting with Lexie yesterday he could barely have a minute pass without thinking of her. Her eyes, her lips, her everything... He was simply enchanted.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/9vbcr6.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />With no way to contact Lexie, Glade could only wait for some sort of sign from her. Eventually his wishes were answered when he found a letter in his mailbox asking him to meet her in the park later that night. Anticipation made him nervous but Glade remained excited as took a bath, got dressed, and prepared to meet her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/nxoyzb.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Staying at home just waiting would have been maddening, so instead he headed to Kale and Heather's. Glade had told them a bit about Lexie, but he didn't exactly know a whole lot himself so he could only share so much. Kale's response had been to smile and congratulate his friend, whereas Heather had a more teasing style. All in all though, they were happy for Glade and said they couldn't wait to meet her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/4gqmi1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As the moon began to rise Glade prepared to leave. He kissed Maia and said began to say goodbye to Kale and Heather.<br />Meanwhile, outside, a catastrophe loomed.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2rgygye.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Her teeth were sharp, impatient, and ravenous.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/28mjwv6.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-53425745543767127722010-02-01T13:10:00.000+00:002010-02-01T13:16:19.988+00:00Part Four: Dreams and RealityGlade listened intently as Heather told the story of how she and Kale had met, nothing but her words and the sound of breathing filling the cool stillness of the room. When she was finished, Glade could only stare. These people, they had been through so much in their lives, yet now they were willing to open themselves up to him and share their secret. In that moment Glade knew that he had formed a true friendship, perhaps for the first time in his life.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/34e9bts.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />That day, Glade left Kale and Heather's house with a sense of calming contentment. He still had questions- about the neighbourhood, about the creatures that swelled in the darkness, but there would be time for that. Kale and Heather had shared something so personal with him, it didn't seem fair to press them for more details. Besides, his own secret still left a black mark on his heart, one that he couldn't bring himself to mention. Kale and Heather knew there was something wrong in Glade's past of course; something that had driven him to come to Riverview, but they wouldn't push him to share. They had all the time in the world for him to make peace with his history and to relieve it with them.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/a0z2vq.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />In the time following their meeting Glade grew ever closer to Kale and Heather. They were a regular feature at his house, always coming over for dinner or to spend time with Maia. Glade had forgotten what it was like to just relax- to just exist without worry; without the creeping feeling that there was an impending doom to be averted.<br />Before long Heather gave birth to a baby boy who they named Cayden. It was the first ghost baby to be born in the world for half a century, but there would be no headlines or fanfares. This was yet another secret the couple would have to bear- the secret of how their love had transcended rules and morals, had brought them together, and had started a family.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/xbir08.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />In the evenings, after making sure Maia was safe in her crib, Glade would sleep. To most people sleep is just a necessity- something that keeps them sane, but to Glade it was more than that. When he closed his eyes and his mind would fall into a quiet dusk it didn't stay dark for long. Sooner or later a figure arrived to drift through his dreams- the girl with the pink hair.<br />Glade had not seen her since his first week in Riverview, he didn't even know her name, but she never strayed far from his thoughts. And so he dreamt, his vivid mind painting illusions that seemed so real at the time. In the morning he would always wake up disappointed.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/vwy4r7.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Dreams can only sate the soul for so long. In recent days Glade had learnt a lot from Kale and Heather about the town and the people who lived there. They told him about the vampires; about where they lurked in patient malice and how best to avoid them, and before long Glade felt he knew enough to make the trip to town safely. It would have been safer to just stay at home of course, but sometimes to get what you really want you have to take a little risk. And so one day Glade left Maia under the careful watch of Kale and Heather, and headed into town.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/35k26c1.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Immediately his destination was Simhenge. Bruises on his skin still echoed the terror of what happened last time he had visited this place, but it was where he had met her so he had to return. Some fear still remained, but as Glade cautiously edged towards the water the sun seemed to grow brighter, and its presence warmed his spirit.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/swbfbb.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />He didn't expect for her to just be there as she had before, but Glade was disappointed nonetheless by her absence. Now he really was in despair. He knew nothing of this girl so he had no way of finding her, but that didn't mean he wouldn't try. The thought of it filled him with trepidation- knocking on doors in this town was beyond stupid considering the dangerous creatures that roamed the lands. Still, Glade tried to fight the fear.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2rypkwp.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Walking back into town he looked up at the sky, his mind sending unspoken questions to the universe. So much in his life had been chaos and misery- Glade didn't know how long he could live without answers. But then he felt his heart began to beat faster. Immediately Glade passed it off as panic and tried to calm himself, but the echo remained; grew stronger. That was when he looked up, and saw Her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/20jpgya.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Standing on the bridge ahead of him was the figure who haunted his dreams. Walking up to her at first Glade couldn't speak- his heart was beating too fast and stopping speech from forcing its way up his throat. The most he managed was a smile, and he felt his heart lurch as she returned it with her own. A sweet smile but mocking nonetheless; the corners of her lips twitched upwards and formed an inside joke of their own.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/16k6t80.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Eventually Glade's tongue was his to control again, and he used it to ask the girl her name. The last time they had met there had been much toying- much games, but this time the pretense was over and she wasn't playing anymore. For whatever reason she didn't need to resist him; didn't need to play pretend like she wasn't happy to see him, so when he asked her for her name her smile grew wider and she replied- Lexie.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/kf5jt1.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Glade grinned and repeated the name a few times to himself, enjoying the feel of it on his lips. Whilst he did this Lexie just watched and smiled, appearing as transfixed as he, but before long she remembered something important. Looking at Glade in earnest she told him that it wasn't safe here and asked him to come with her- she knew a place they could go. Glade understood her fears and of course said yes.<br />As they walked away from Sinhenge Glade couldn't keep his eyes off of Lexie. She seemed so bright, so full of life. She was what he needed- an antidote to all the gloom that had plagued him in the past.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2cyjm6u.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Before long they arrived at the old playground, a symbol of the decay of Riverview sadly mirrored throughout the town. The swings were dank and rusted, the grass was overgrown and disheveled, but to Glade and Lexie that didn't matter. It was quiet, secluded, and gave them the freedom to be alone together.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2nb64y8.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />They stayed in the park a for long time, just talking quietly amongst themselves. Glade watched her mouth as she spoke and just ached to kiss her, but he didn't want to risk doing anything that might make her run off again. And so their topics of conversation remained neutral- just little discussions about their interests, about the town. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/w7c3tz.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As the night grew deeper Glade and Lexie sat entwined. Their lips were inches from ecstacy but neither would make the move. And so they gazed at each other, and both lamented the moment when they would separate.<br />They didn't even notice that someone was watching from the shadows...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/3357e48.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Someone with murder in mind...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/316no75.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-40851613765705804492010-02-01T13:03:00.000+00:002010-02-01T13:09:38.201+00:00Part Three: The Ballad of Kale and HeatherFive years ago, in the Valley of the Sun...<br /><br />Heather lived a poor existence. She had a roof over her head and food to eat, but it was her soul that remained unsheltered. Her life consisted of cleaning, cooking, and errands, and it was dark. Not depressing, just without colour. Not miserable, just without laughter. <br />This life Heather lived soley because of her mother; her mother who told her how to dress, how to speak, how to act. Her name was Katia, but no one called her that.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/14e84tg.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Some people choose to live in the past because they're scared of the future- Mrs Dementieva was a prime example of this. She always insisted everyone call her by her married name, even though no one had seen Mr Dementieva for years. Heather suspected that her mother had never really been married at all, and it was just a way of keeping up appearances.<br />That was her mother's way really- it was always about what the neighbours would think. In truth it seemed the neighbours opinions were of more value to Mrs Dementieva than her own daughter's. Heather was brought up to be quiet, be respectful, and never answer back, and if she did she was severly punished. <br />Mrs Dementieva knew all about suffering. She knew just how long someone could be locked in the dark before they lost their mind. She knew just how long someone could be held under the water before they drowned. Heather could have considered herself lucky in a way- her mother's skill in torture was such that she would always stop at the last minute. She would always end the pain just before Heather would break. It would always stop just before the last gasp.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2cx99bo.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />It was always tricks and mind games. Mrs Dementieva would twist things- try to make Heather think that she was doing it for her own good, try to make her think that it was her fault she was acting this way. But Heather wasn't stupid. Though she had been put down by the years of torment, a fire still burned inside of Heather's heart. Her mother's cruel ploys and subterfuge may have resonated on the surface, but Heather still fought inside. She knew there was more to life; she knew that things could be better. It was just a matter of time.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2iu9jk2.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The day that time came seemed like any other. It was early morning, and Heather was out at the the grocery store pertaining to her mother's demands as usual. She didn't see him arrive, she just turned around and there was light. <br />From the moment Kale came into her life, Heather felt herself changing. The concept of love at first sight was alien to her, and she still didn't believe it in now. All Heather knew was here was a man who made her smile; who made her feel like she was worth something. For so long she had listened to her mother tell her that she wasn't good enough, and though she had told herself she didn't believe it, part of her still panicked that maybe it was true. Now she knew that it wasn't.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/1y4r9h.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Heather's life was so heavily controlled by her mother that it was difficult to find time to be with Kale, but somehow they managed. It started off with simple gestures; a warm friendship formed and with it came affection. A brief brush of the lips was everything. Kale was like oxygen, and Heather ached for him with every breath. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/xc924h.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As their bond grew stronger, Heather knew that Kale would have to meet her mother. She didn't want him to- she didn't like the idea of her sunshine joining with her darkness, but she needed Mrs Dementieva's blessing if she and Kale were to see each other as much as she wished. But, as expected, the encounter did not go so well...<br />From the minute Mrs Dementieva laid eyes on Kale she was incensed. Animosity boiled inside as she laid eyes on the stranger, because it was then she really looked at her daughter for the first time in a long while. Staring at Heather, she saw the glow about her; the quiet joy that formed a secret smile on her face. Mrs Dementieva told her daughter right there and then that she was never to see this man again, and for once Heather did not remain speechless. It started with one word, a simple 'no' and after that anger was rising. The two sides threw hatred at each other, and Kale found himself caught in the middle.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/1zvzvo2.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />From that day on, Mrs Dementieva knew she was losing the hold she had on her daughter. Her icy grip no longer bended Heather to her will; Heather was stronger now with Kale beside her, and this made her mother more insanely furious than she had ever been before.<br />With her fear of her mother dwindling, Heather saw Kale more and more frequently. She shrugged off the rigors previously placed on her and fully embraced her love. Though they decided to keep it a secret, Kale and Heather got married.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2psefpe.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />They were married at the local city hall for legal purposes, but later that night they slipped away into the woods for their own private ceremony. This is how Kale and Heather wanted it- just the cool night air and each other for company as they said their vows; words formed through breathless lips as they promised their hearts. That night they became man and wife, til death do them part. <br />With the dawn slowly approaching Heather had to say goodbye. Though she ached to spend the night with Kale, in all senses, Heather had to return home before her mother grew suspicious. They kissed as they parted and went back to their lives, all the while remaining joyful at their secret plans to leave as soon as they had saved enough money.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/259hlz5.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The following morning Heather was sent out by her mother's instructions to run some errands in town. As she walked towards the shops a coy smile played across her lips as she thought of her new husband. In just a few days time they would be away from this place, safe in Riverview together.<br />Meanwhile, back at home Kale was thinking about the same thing. He knew that nothing would be able to stop them leaving, so when Mrs Dementieva called and asked him over to the house he couldn't see the harm in going. Maybe she'd changed her mind about them?<br />As he got to the open front door Kale heard a voice calling him, and by following it he ended up in a room he had never seen before. A long dark pool ran the length of it, and Mrs Dementieva sat in stoney silence in the distance.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/4lly6v.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />It terrified him. For reasons he couldn't explain, Mrs Dementieva's cold quietness made his bones twist with terror. Trying very hard to remember how to breathe, Kale walked up the steps to greet the woman. He waited for her to speak; to explain why she had asked him here, but she didn't. Not at first.<br />Initially she just glared, eyes barely blinking as she fixed her chilling gaze on Kale's bewildered face. And then she asked him. No, that wasn't right- she told him. She told him to leave this town and never see Heather again. <br />Kale laughed and turned to walk away. It was a mistake he would not live to regret- he wouldn't get the chance.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/209iuk3.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Only a few footsteps were able to echo through the bleak room before the pain hit. Kale felt his legs give out as the hot sharp sensation spread from his side throughout his body, and he crumbled into the water. The water gripped him in a frenzy, the liquid pulling him down into its depths. Kale tried so hard to fight it but it hurt so much, and if he just stopped struggling he would be able to relax. There was so much comfort to be found in just giving up.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/25k1t78.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />And then darkness. Black. It was just so black. Dark, coarse liquid forcing its way into his lungs, and forcing life out. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/4fu62t.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />When Heather returned home her mother was waiting for her. She didn't even try to seem sympathetic, Mrs Dementieva just told Heather that Kale had died in a car accident. No commiseration, no sympathy- she even tried to make Heather feel like it was her fault for falling for him in the first place. But her mother's words just washed over her like nothing, because from the moment she knew Kale was dead and she felt her heart slam into her ribcage that was it for Heather. All colour drained from her life and all emotions cascaded freely as the walls of her heart fell down. <br />Heather locked herself in her room after that- she needed to be alone with her grief, but that wasn't all... Heather may have spent her life serving her mother, but she also spent her life learning. The books she buried herself in had taught her many things, such as the mythology of ghosts.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2qjhbn7.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Many years ago, ghosts had roamed as freely as regular human beings. They had lived a peaceful existence, but one day everything changed. An organisation came into power that decided ghosts were an affont to everything they believed in, and consequently they were banished. Since then, the practice of restoring ghosts was halted and the laboratories burned down, but some books on the subject still remained. <br />When Heather had learnt of Kale's death she waited for his funeral to pass, and stole his urn before it could be destroyed. Placing it in her room she then waited. And waited. Weeks passed and still nothing, but Heather would wait forever for Kale. Then finally, one night his ghost appeared.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/dlssa0.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Ghosts were blasphemous, ghosts were a sin- this was what Heather had been taught by society her whole life. But Heather was smarter than that. Her love for Kale enabled her to see past the world's narrowminded judgements. They belonged together, and the fact that he was a ghost was no more important than the colour of his skin or his accent. That night, Kale and Heather were finally able to spend the night together, and it was perfect. In the morning they would leave forever, and that was perfect too.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2ezrc6v.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />After returning in his ghostly guise, Kale had spent the night wondering if he would disappear just as quickly as he had materialised. He stayed up until dawn just watching Heather sleep and praying he would not be torn away from her again. He wasn't. Something was keeping him in this world, and Kale strongly suspected that something was Heather.<br />When Heather awoke in the morning Kale was fast asleep. She got dressed and tiptoed lightly down the stairs where she found her mother in the kitchen. Skipping all niceties and pleasantness Heather told her mother the truth- Kale was alive, as a ghost, they were married, and they were leaving. Now.<br />How she got from talking to agony Heather was uncertain. One moment she was looking at the mother, the next she was lying on the ground, pain seeping from her broken face.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2mc86ds.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Kale awoke as he heard the shouting downstairs. He recognised the voice; it was a voice that would forever bring chills to his soul, but what bothered him more was that he couldn't hear Heather's voice too. Racing down the stairs he found his love lay damaged on the floor, with the monsterous Mrs Dementieva hunched over her; her cruel wretched hands inflicting misery on Heather. Feelings of revenge burned through his veins and he could have killed her. But Kale was not that person- he would never be that person. <br />Kale would have his revenge, but it would not be murder. He would save Heather, he would say everything he ever wanted to Mrs Dementieva, he might even injure her a bit, but he would never end her life. And that was exactly what happened.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2e3xuv4.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Leaving Mrs Dementieva to live her life in bitterness and gloom forever was punishment enough. Kale and Heather would go on, they would be happy, but she would never change.<br />As Kale and Heather left Sunset Valley they were both bruised and shaken by their experiences. They left a shade smarter; a great deal braver. They had survived oppression, they had survived even death. They now felt they could survive anything.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/30c16wk.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-71960578501939321472010-02-01T12:56:00.000+00:002010-02-01T13:02:54.345+00:00Part Two: All That SlithersWhen faced with the two inhuman creatures in front of him, Glade did not immediately panic. Though his heart trembled worse than before, his expression remained calm... for now. <br />Each faction regarded the other for a while, simply stares and nothing more until the female approached. Glade softened slightly as she came closer because, although her fangs served as a warning, her sweet smile masked some of the malice. For now.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/ot25ag.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />But within a breath things had changed. The smile was gone, replaced by an angry scowl that distorted her features as she leapt forward. Glade barely had time to react before her teeth were close to his skin, and snapping.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/30m26b6.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The vampire threw him around like a rag doll, running on some sort of ferocious strength that only the damned possess. <br />Certainly Glade was not prepared for this. He had heard tales of their kind before and had considered that he may come across some in the badlands, but when faced with the reality of the situation it was somewhat hard to comprehend. No amount of mental rehearsal could prepare him for someone looking to feast on his flesh.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/34sh0nc.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Still, Glade was no weakling. Growing up under Avalon's rule he had learnt to defend himself, so once he got over the shock of the vampire's attack he fought back. The beast barely grazed his skin with her teeth before Glade pushed her away with all the strength he had. And although he was fighting for his life, Glade's only concern was Maia. <br />The child sat on the ground, gawking at the scene in front of her; complete in her innocence and her vulnerability. Glade could only hope that, somehow, they would be able to get out of this alive. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/fk49hd.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />At first it seemed like they would indeed survive. The vampire was strong but Glade's determination made him nigh invincible, and as the conflict went on he could feel his foe weakening; her razor-sharp teeth snapping in bitter frustration as they were denied the sweet contact they desired. But then the other vampire began to move... He grinned as he regarded the fight, then turned his attention to the little girl sitting on the grass.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/68anva.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />When Glade saw the vamp creep towards Maia he turned his back on the female, which was to be an error he would soon lament. <br />With her enemy distracted, the woman let her eyes linger on the source of her infatuation. The neck.<br />Twisting from Glade's agitated grasp, the vampire launched herself at the flesh, inhaled the scent of mortality, and sunk her teeth in deep.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/b6x43r.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />The pain burned through Glade as he felt the blood rise up and scald his skin. It was shock more than anything else that hit him first, and in truth he barely had time to acknowledge the wound after that initial agony. This was a good thing though, as the distance from the real feeling enabled him to shake the vampire off, prying her fangs from his flesh and throwing her away. There was no more time left for scrapping- Glade needed out of the situation now. And so he hit the male vamp, hard, picked up Maia, and ran for his life. <br />He heard the vampires enraged howls reach after him as he sped into the night.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/34qjsed.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Back at home, Glade put Maia to bed and made sure she was safe. A lot. He could barely begin to leave her side, as every time he did he couldn't help but succumb to hysteria. <br />A lot of time passed until Glade felt he was able to depart, and even then it was only to the bathroom. Contemplating his reflection in the mirror he regarded the blood, the ache, the fear. He knew he was lucky to be alive.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/14n3h5d.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />For a long time after that Glade and Maia stayed at home. It was something like a beautiful hell- Glade felt like he had everything he needed, and yet he was trapped. <br />Gradually he began to change himself. It was unlikely that the vampires attacked him because they knew who he was, but Glade reasoned that one day he would be noticed by someone who mattered. So he worked at looking human, and it was something he wanted but knew he could never attain.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/bey103.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Most days Glade would pace in front of the windows, always scouring the street outside for unwelcome predators of any kind. He could barely sleep, he was so tormented by what had happened. The fear and the uncertainty hurt worse than the physical pain, and every day he would find himself replaying the incident in his mind. It would always be different though- Glade would imagine he had been stronger; quicker.<br />Truely he was more human than he realised. After all, obsession is what we do best.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/20ue5jd.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Maia watched her brother grapple with his anguish and felt it all herself. She was only young but seeing him like this was agonizing, such was her empathy for those around her. But she didn't know that Glade had more than vampires on his mind.<br />Ever since that night at Simhenge, Glade had been unable to forget about the woman he had met there- the one who had held his hand. He didn't even know her name, and yet her visage was etched in his memory like a lucid dream. What pained him most was that he had no way to contact her- no way to see her again.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/fadj04.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As the days passed, Glade thought about her more and more, and over time he hit upon a realisation. To see her again he would have to leave the safety of the house. Was he willing to risk it all for her?<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/2ymdtdy.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />To make this sort of decision, Glade needed to do some research. He needed to find out just what was lurking out there in the dark- he needed to know what slithered through the neighbourhood when no one was watching. He needed to talk to the only person he had really met since arriving in Riverview.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/28ti1yv.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Kale couldn't help but be suprised when he encountered Glade and Maia standing on his doorstep, but he was pleased to see them. He confessed that he didn't often have visitors, as neighbourly kindness and community spirit weren't exactly rife around here.<br />After embracing them warmly, Kale invited Glade and Maia into his house.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/20k9dso.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Once inside, Kale took them through to the living room where they were greeted by a woman. Her name was Heather, and she was Kale's wife.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/j9m0cn.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As Glade was introduced to Heather he tried not to stare at her, he really did, but it was difficult. Firstly, she was pregnant which was a definate shocker considering the world's views on ghost/human relationships. And secondly, so many scars framed a pain on her face, now faded with time. Glade couldn't help but wonder what this couple had been through, and if they had a past as haunted as his own.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/200c4j.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Although both sides were altogether friendly, the atmosphere verged on awkward. Luckily though Heather was unfazed by the situation, and with a bright smile she told Glade that she understood his interest and, if he wanted, she would tell him how they had come to live in Riverview. He didn't reply but Heather knew what he was thinking. She took Glade's hand and squeezed it, told him to take a seat on the sofa, then she eased down opposite him. Looking into the eyes of her husband she took a deep breath before she began her story- a story about ghosts. A story about love. A story about Kale and Heather...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/20qdwn9.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-16261181628089053272010-02-01T12:47:00.000+00:002010-02-01T12:54:31.667+00:00Part One: Welcome to the WildernessRiverview. Once a thriving rural community, over the generations it had become a virtual wasteland; a place where the wronged and the sinners came to hide in disillusion. Maybe it was the solace that could be found there, maybe it was the serenity- whatever the cause, over time more and more haunted souls gathered in the neighbourhood, looking for refuge.<br />It was the perfect place for Glade and Maia to set up home.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2h4kv0k.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />After arriving at their hideaway Glade put his little sister to bed and kissed her goodnight. As he watched her drift off to an angelic sleep he only hoped that he'd be able to ensure her safety for the years to come. <br />Glade knew that Avalon was proud, that he was vengeful, and that he would come looking for them. It was only a matter of time really. And so, that night Glade found a seat and took up a vigil. He promised himself that he would stay awake until morning, always keeping one eye fixed firmly on the window and the world outside. But Glade's journey had been long and arduous, and before long he gave way to sleep.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2wghu0l.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>]<br /><br /><br />In the morning Glade awoke to a sound outside. Instantly his mind rang with alarms as he jolted from unconsciousness and whirled to look at Maia. After seeing that she was still safe in her crib he relaxed for a second, and immediately turned his attention to who or what was outside. Creeping cautiously to the window he peeled back the curtains and peered out...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/15rl99j.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />It was a ghost. Glade had heard ghost stories before- everyone knew that they existed- but in recent years there had been a movement to banish ghosts. Certain people had decided that the suggestion of people coming back from the dead was obscenely heathen, and consequently gravestones were destroyed and science labs closed down. How this ghost came to be, Glade had no idea.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/ndr2a.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Glade was reluctant to approach the figure, after all, when you're on the run everyone is a potential assassin or informer. But something in the ghost's seemingly cheerful face gave Glade the composure he needed to talk to the man.<br />Approaching him tentatively, the ghost greeted Glade with a friendly handshake and a warm smile. He introduced himself as Kale Summers, stating that he lived just down the road and he had wanted to welcome Glade to the neighbourhood. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/qo9f8j.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>]<br /><br /><br />At first some pessimism remained. Glade hadn't expected any sort of greeting when he'd arrived in Riverview, assuming that everyone pretty much kept to themselves in this area. This was true, for the most part, but for whatever reason Kale was different. <br />They talked for a while, just general everyday chit chat- no specifics, no secrets- and gradually Glade found himself letting go of some of the tension that knotted his insides. That was, of course, until he heard Maia's cries from inside the house.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/rka7bk.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />At the sound of Maia's impatient calls, Glade felt that avid anxiety wrap round him again, squeezing tighter until he found it difficult to breathe. Although he didn't fear Kale like he would any other person, he still didn't feel comfortable with him knowing about Maia. <br />However, seeing the ease drain from Glade's complexion like that, Kale understood. At that moment he simply stated that it was nice to meet him, he hoped they would see each other again, and said goodbye. In passing he commented that he knew a little something about needing privacy at all costs, and then he was gone.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/118d1ck.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />For the next few days Glade and Maia stayed safe in the house, with Glade occasionally making trips out to the grocers for supplies. He was reluctant to take Maia outside for fear of who might see them. Avalon controlled his people with a macabre and unyielding maliciousness; everyone for miles around bowed to him, so it wasn't much of a stretch to assume that he had spies as far out as Riverview.<br />But there's only so long one can stay a prisoner in their own home without dancing amidst insanity. In time Glade made the decision to venture out of the house, which Maia was only too pleased by.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/5wjucx.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Glade and Maia spent the day exploring Riverview, keeping strictly to the more secluded areas and out of the main town. As he watched Maia enjoying herself in the sun, Glade began to feel a little better about his choice. It was a necessary risk really- he couldn't keep Maia cooped up inside the house forever, no matter how much better that made him feel. Besides, if Avalon wanted to get them it was doubtful that four walls could stop him.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2hx7qdc.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />After walking for some time, Glade and Maia arrived at the infamous Simhenge monument. The beauty of the surroundings reminded Glade somewhat of his homeland and the life he had left behind. It wasn't a bad thing though- the allure of his previous home could be mirrored in this new land, and the uncomfortable memories of his childhood could be enveloped by the hopefully joyous memories he could give to Maia.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2mmycno.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As the sun sank into the shimmering water and the moon crept up through the sky, Glade and Maia began to head for home. That was the plan anyway...<br />In the distance, down by the water's edge, there was a woman, and Glade couldn't help but be distracted by her.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/dr4j7n.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Excluding Kale, this was the first person Glade had come across since he had arrived in Riverview. Of course he had been trying to avoid people by keeping out of populated areas, so he had to assume that maybe this woman had a similar mission in mind. But why?<br />Logic... Logic can be a very useful thing. It can keep you safe; protecting both your heart and your mind, but sometimes we don't need it. Sometimes the illogical choices turn out to be the most fun...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2di1y7s.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Placing Maia carefully on the ground, Glade walked over to the woman by the water. As he neared her side she heard his footsteps and turned round in agitation, pure panic distorting her beautiful features. Clearly she hadn't expected anyone else to be at Simhenge- maybe there never was in the past. <br />Glade apologised to the girl, assuring her that he meant no harm and he had just wanted to introduce himself. He told her his name, and she returned it with a smile. No words from her lips, just the amused expression for now.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/35db0c0.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Glade could have taken this silence as an indication to give up- walk away- but he couldn't do that. Gradually the girl began to talk back, and like his conversation with Kale the topics stayed neutral. Clearly the residents of Riverview were as guarded as he; clearly everyone had something to hide.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/1yaaf6.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />It's unclear how long they spoke for- Glade found himself distracted by the moment. He was aware of certain things, like the moon rising to control the sky and the stars glittering as they grew brighter, but other than that time was of little consequence. After their words ran out Glade and the girl just stood together. With some courage, Glade slipped his hand into hers.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2ilefs2.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />He thought his heart ceased beating for a moment as their fingers touched, fearing that she would pull away and ask him what the hell he was thinking. She didn't though- she didn't say anything at all.<br />Glade should have left it like that really; the simplicity of hand in hand was all that was needed to complete their meeting, but he couldn't resist asking...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/drb2v5.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />With his words the spell was broken. After asking her what had brought her to Riverview, Glade could only watch in dejection as the girl wrenched her hand from his, muttered that she had to leave now, and ran out of sight.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2cmok14.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Turning back to the water, Glade allowed sadness to pass him by as he thought of their meeting. Yes, it had ended in dismissal of sorts, but just the flicker of hope was all that Glade needed to keep his optimism alive.<br />It's a shame really, because it was to be this meeting that would turn Glade's world upside down. <br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/mshnwh.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />As Glade turned back and prepared to pick up Maia, he froze. In front of him were two dark figures- two shadows that slithered out of the night and violated his tranquility. All at once a cold splash of dread began to pool in the pit of his stomach.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/30bcxw4.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a><br /><br /><br />Glade couldn't begin to imagine what they wanted, but the flashing of their teeth told him that something was deeply wrong...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/1clfa.jpg" border="0" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8088941320409732603.post-21686109330041573402010-02-01T12:38:00.000+00:002010-02-02T11:48:30.022+00:00PrologueOnce upon a time, as the stories say, there lived a king.<br />The fairytales have a lot of things right, but they remain unable to characterise the true cruel nature of man; and in particular, this man. Avalon.<br />He ruled his kingdom with malevolence in mind, and a passion for perversion. But although you can be a king and you can be in charge, you can't live forever. And so, Avalon needed to ensure his legacy lived on. He needed an heir, but first he needed a bride.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/akac09.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Unfortunately, when you're as dark-hearted as Avalon is, you can't just walk up to a girl and try and woo them with your personality alone. Instead, you have to resort to some more unorthodox methods... Avalon racked his twisted and brilliant mind for a solution and, in time, one was presented to him- he would make his queen.<br />It took a lot of time and a lot of failed experiments, each more ludricious than the last. You see, the key was humanity. How can a person exist unless they are truely alive? Once Avalon knew this, once he had obtained the required spark of humanity, it was really very simple to make a life.<br />This is how Marylena was created.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/1z4wcgw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Now that he had a queen, a vessel for his plans, Avalon was able to get what he needed but didn't particularly want- an heir. In a short amount of time Glade was born, and then promptly handed over to the hired help. After all, what kind of maniacal monarch has time for his kids? No, Avalon had more important things to do, and Marylena... well, she was just a shell.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/2n9jam1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As Glade grew up he became accustomed to spending his time alone. He hardly ever saw his father, which he was content with, but he did crave time with his mother. The only occasions when he saw her she was either cooking or cleaning; trailing after Avalon and tending to his every need. Of course Glade had no choice in the life he had been given, but it disturbed him nonetheless. He couldn't help but think that something was rotten...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/2aj6ed.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Avalon, meanwhile, was perfectly pleased with himself. With Marylena by his side, his every desire was taken care of... He had no interest in his son, looking on him as simply a means to an end- a necessary part of the future. Right now his eye was firmly focused on the present, his kingdom, and his queen.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/33jntk5.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />And what did Marylena think of all this? Well, she didn't think anything. Though her limbs creaked in animation and a hollow tick echoed from where her heart should reside, there was no expression in her. Except for...<br />Sometimes Glade would look at his mother, and see in her eyes such a haunted suffering he could hardly bear it. It didn't make sense though- she wasn't alive. And yet the desperate flicker remained, though its light grew weaker with each day that went by.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/10dgx39.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />As the years passed and Glade grew he became accustomed to the peculiarities of his surroundings. Still his homelife caused sensations of revulsion for his spirit, but he was able to find peace in the beauty of the kingdom. More and more he would spend his days outside, admiring the beauty of nature and the happiness it brought to his troubled young mind.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/6zsyg2.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />When he did return home he found no warmth there. As Glade aged his father began to take more of an interest in him, much to Glade's intense displeasure. Avalon saw his son growing and concluded that it was now time for him to receive instruction in how to be a king.<br />Unfortunately Avalon's idea of 'instruction' involved a great deal of berating and abuse; screaming at Glade whenever he acted incorrectly, which was often. Glade didn't want to be king, not if it meant turning out like his father. Avalon's bullying and demoralising ways chilled Glade's soul, and this was only the things that he knew about...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/2ew2po4.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />There was a lot going on behind closed doors... You could see the signs reflected all around like a broken mirror- a scream at night, a servant with tears steaming down their face, people disappearing. The only person who really knew the truth was Avalon, and he wasn't one for sharing.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/aep9h1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />With the passing of time the family was blessed with another child- a little girl named Maia. The arrival of Maia made Glade pleased and yet panicked at the same time; it was wonderful for him to finally have some company in the house, but he feared for her life at the hands of his father.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i46.tinypic.com/2ytz1aw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Avalon had made no secret of the fact that he hated women, how he thought their only use was for procreation, recreation, and serving men. And yes, Maia's birth aggravated him tremendously. He had a son, and that was more than enough. Quite simply, he had no use for Maia.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i50.tinypic.com/kar6gw.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />With his sister's life weighing heavily on his mind, Glade began to scrutinise his father's activities, hoping to perhaps pierce the surface and view the secrets that lay beneath. A lot of excavation only served to uncover disappointment for the most part, until one night he decided to explore the forest...<br />In the deathly stillness of night, with only the watchful moon for company, Glade slipped through the trees one by one, until he came to a small cabin.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/4joro4.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Opening the door and stepping inside, Glade recoiled in revulsion as he stared at the mirror in front of him. The mirror was... wrong. Instead of his own reflection looking back at him there was a woman, seemingly trapped in the glass.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i48.tinypic.com/fdaxbo.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />It was then that Glade looked closer; looked into the eyes of the woman- those frozen and helpless eyes that he had gazed into so many times before. The eyes of Marylena, the Clockwork Doll. His mother.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i49.tinypic.com/ifn9cn.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Glade didn't know how it was possible, didn't know how his father had done it. He only knew that, somehow, the Clockwork Doll was not entirely artificial- that the very integral part of the machine was oh so human. Marylena had been alive, once, she had lived just as he lived, and now she was trapped.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/3499n41.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Upon his return to the house Glade immediately sought out his mother. He went to her and told her that he knew, that he was sorry, and that he wanted to help. No reply from Marylena, but the eyes grew sadder still. And then, with great effort, her arm creaked upwards, formed a fist, pointed a finger at the door, and Glade knew what he had to do.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/10fq1c1.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Glade could have run from the house right there and then, but logic told him that wasn't an option. And so, with some careful planning in mind, Glade waited for the opportune moment to act. When the time was right, he crept into Maia's room under the cover of the obscure night, pried the sleeping child from her crib, and eased out the door.<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i47.tinypic.com/2w6574i.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Leaving the kingdom behind forever, Glade thought of his mother. He wanted to save her; set her free, whatever she needed, but it would be impossible to get her away from Avalon. Instead, Glade would just have to take Maia for now and keep her safe until he could go back for his mother. With one last glance back at his former home, Glade set out to find a place to hide. A place to raise Maia and protect her. A place called Riverview...<br /><a href="http://tinypic.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i45.tinypic.com/23ly3nm.jpg" alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6