The Cassadine Covenant

By Dasia Zanders

With an impending war at their heels, life for the Cassadines as they know it may come crashing down all around them. Will power plays and politics destroy their kingdom and their family? Will their legacy be able to prevail and ultimately triumph, sparing the citizens of Travinstein, as well as the mortal world from a reign of darkness? Join the Cassadines in their final stand against the Rosens and experience the harrowing events that abound as you become immersed in this epic tale.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Dasia Zanders
• Release date: Nov 10, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370763924

Dasia Zanders

Dasia Zanders has been putting pen to paper since she was a young child and began working on her first novel at the age of twelve. After honing her writing skills through her pivotal adolescent years, she has completed her latest novel, Apartment 42. This contemporary coming of age story along with a trilogy of work about The Cassadine Clan, a very special group of supernatural teens, delves into how friendship can create its own family ties that can run deeper than any bloodline. In her debut novel, Based on her everyday experiences, Zanders’ characters are compelling, soulful and relatable. Just like their creator, they’re not your average kids next door. You’re invited to come and step into her world where ordinary life collides with extraordinary souls.Dasia currently resides in FL, writes daily, and is inspired by the natural beauty and conversely the darkness that surrounds her.

Book preview

for MY MOTHER…

You taught me the importance of compassion, independence, and happiness. I will never be able to thank you enough for being my support and for being a consistent, attentive, and dedicated parent. There are some people in this world who have kids but don’t raise them, but you are not one of them. I’ve watched you pour your blood, sweat and tears into being my mother and not once regretting it or complaining. I love you so much and I can only hope that I’m becoming half of such an amazing person as you are.

Contents

Dedication

Part One

Part Two

Part Three

Part Four

Part Five

Acknowledgements

Catching up with Dasia Zanders

Meet the Original Three

Part One

Prologue

Sebastian

Daniel

November

Rosalia

Daniel

Melissa

Caroline

Requil

Sebastian

Arbri

Razor

Marcus

Requil

Melissa

Sebastian

Daniel

Nathan

Claire

Elizabeth

Sebastian

Marcus

Eric

Daniel

Arbri

Sebastian

Razor

Nathan

Eric

Razor

Return to TOC

PROLOGUE

November was still in prison so she didn’t take the dagger, but at the moment that seemed to be the least of our worries; whatever Daniel was going to be speaking of had sent us into a panic. When Sebastian turned on Travinstein television at 9:28 we were apprehensive. Stefan and Caroline were at my side asking questions I couldn’t answer. Rosalia would stay with Razor and watch from Marcus’ phone. It was the longest two minute wait we’ve ever had.

The screen was black for a while before an image popped up. It was an image of a man with pale, sickening skin and dark eyes. He had dark brown hair that seemed to be falling out from age, and dark, cracked, red lips. His face twisted into a threatening stare. He began to speak; his voice was low and unsettling.

Good evening, citizens of Travinstein. You may be speculating why this old man is speaking to you when you were expecting to watch your mindless programs. Some of you will recognize that I am not merely an aging man for you would know me as Ariek, or formerly, Parcel Rosen. Years ago, I once was powerful, ruling darkness and taking over as the leader of a society called The Bliden. You would also know that I was overpowered, fragmented by humans, and stripped of my natural born rights. I’ve been incognito since and within that time period I’ve had assistance from a majority of the Rosen family and my two sons. As time has passed I’ve strengthened, and have been kept well informed about the events of Travinstein, such as the dragons being held captive, the unstable economy, and the paparazzi’s endless desire to chase after the Cassadine children. It is disgusting and shameful that Caroline Cassadine has permitted herself to care for children that aren’t even in her own bloodline, let alone think of sharing her kingdom with them. It’s even more shameful to see the humans she’s allowed to roam within our realm! OUR territory! Caroline has destroyed the blessing of biological family and desecrated the line between us and them. It is for this reason that last year, I took it upon myself, through my son Trey, to raise The Bliden back to power. I gave my most important and difficult tasks to the top three members of our realm’s pure bloodlines. They all possess true potential and know what loyalty is. They’ve been working under my commands and carrying out my orders without even realizing it. They’ve provided me strength through their triumphs. They’ve contributed to bringing the Darkness back to its beautiful, allusive abilities. These three warriors in my dark army are Eddrick Worthwick, whose dragon culture and powers are rare and valuable. Stefan Sandella of the Travin, who possesses great ability to communicate with people and absorb their happiness, and whose ancestors were humiliated, destroyed and banished by Octavius Cassadine, and finally, Sebastian Cassadine, who I hope will become my ally instead of my enemy. Sebastian’s parents were Nala and Liam Cassadine, dear friends of mine who now rest peacefully six feet below us. However, I must state that much of the praise and thanks should really go to my other son, who will gladly sum up my discourse.

The staff of our kingdom were crying and staring at Sebastian’s ring in shock while the screen changed to Daniel. It was Daniel.

I am known by two names, Daniel spoke, In the mortal world, and ironically also in Travinstein, I am known as Daniel Parker, the human who for nine years remained a faithful companion to Rosalia Cassadine, then continued to be in her life for an additional two years as her boyfriend. However, in Travinstein, I am also known as The Other Son of Ariek. I am an enigma to both human and immortal. I am a rare Penipu. Eric if you’re watching, I know you’ve studied a lot about creatures, perhaps you could clarify any missing details for your family.

Daniel winked then continued on.

Penipu is the Indonesian word for Deceiver. A Penipu appears human, smells human and can even change their physical body chemistry to react as human, but we are not human. We are something far more. From the time I was a child, I have welcomed myself into the Cassadines’ lives, learning their secrets, their strategies, and their personalities. Learning as much about them as I silently could. There was a reason for me staying with my aunt in the mortal world and for Trey staying in Travinstein. There was a reason our dear cousin November suddenly needed to attack; everything November did was a distraction, every battle, every letter, even her arrest. She was the brightest star sacrificing so much in honor of our family, unlike Nathan, who wasn’t even aware I was his cousin until now. There was a reason the sacred heart was so easy to get, thanks to Haven. Now, I have a proposition for Stefan, Eddrick and Razor Laketer. Boys, I know you’re listening. I’m only offering this to you once. Join us. Why should you have to risk your lives for someone who you barely know? Why should you lay out all you have and all you are for someone who couldn’t even tell when he was being lied to? Razor, I could teach you everything there is to know about being a Penipu, after all, I bit you and I know you’re strong enough to handle the change. I actually did you a favor because the upcoming challenge the Cassadine family is going to be facing would leave you dead in a matter of minutes if you remained human, considering the most recent Bliden order was given to Sebastian to kill you, but now, that won’t be happening thanks to me. I didn’t want to bite you, Razor, but you left me no choice. You and I used to work together pretty well, why not try it again? Consider it, because the havoc that’s finally come is prepared to destroy everything and everyone around you. It’s time for order to be restored, but for order to be reestablished correctly there must be a little hell.

We were stunned as we stood in silence.

Elizabeth, where is Rosalia, do you think he’d go after her right away? Stefan asked me.

I don’t know. I whispered.

The screen split down the middle with Daniel on the left and The Creation of Emergent on the right. In a matter of seconds four dragons made screeching scary roars and destroyed the building. Two aimed for the mid-section taking forty stories down together, and one went to the top while another went to the bottom taking twenty each until the building was left in a heap of smoke. Daniel was actually smiling, and I mean really smiling. Smiling in a way that I had never seen him smile before…his eyes had their spark again as they turned gold. We watched as the glass and rock and paper settled on the site of where there was once a shiny structure.

After the building was gone you could see the Rosen castle doors and windows burst open with guards filing out and workers chanting and laughing with Trey who stood at the very top tower smiling. They ran through town attacking nearby citizens and it became clear they were making their way across Travinstein. The Rosen kingdom was situated diagonally from the Cassadine kingdom; it would take less than thirty minutes to get to us. A riot ensued and Cassadine guards came rushing out in attempts to stop it by mother’s orders. I could hear them scurrying from inside the castle. Sebastian motioned as if he was going out with them but jade and Caroline grabbed hold of him, shaking their heads no; he struggled before dropping to the ground. Tears welled in my eyes as Stefan held me tightly…how would we survive this?

There must be hell for order.

SEBASTIAN

I want a lot of men on the streets! Innocent people are getting hurt! Go! Caroline’s shouting bellowed into the intercom through the kingdom.

Sebastian, I’ve got to find Rosalia! Stefan yelled as he dialed her phone number.

What? You can’t go out in this! I cried.

I ran out of the room with him and followed him down the staircases of the palace. Aunt Caroline sounded off the emergency alarms, security rushed through the doors with responding soldiers while staff members secured themselves inside safe rooms.

What if Daniel has someone going after her? Listen, she’s not just your cousin and Elizabeth’s sister; she’s also my best friend! He cried. If anyone has to risk finding her it should be me! I’m calling her now. If she doesn’t pick up after a few tries I’m leaving! He exclaimed, pressing multiple buttons.

Stefan-

Sebastian! You’re needed in the top tower! A guard declared.

Stefan, be careful. I nodded lightly as I patted his shoulder before I ran to the top of the staircase. Aunt Caroline looked terrified and furious.

Where is Stefan going? She demanded when she noticed him continuing down the stairs.

He wants to find out where Rosalia is! I sighed.

He’s not leaving is he? She gasped.

He wants to make sure everyone is safe-

No! He can call her, I’ll figure it out! I want all of you kids here! Someone grab Stefan Sandella! She ordered as she took my hand and forced me in a different direction.

Aunt Caroline how bad is it out there? I hesitantly asked.

Look for yourself. She stated.

She led me to a large window and shoved the curtains aside. Loud screaming and dragon roars could be heard. People living nearby were locking down their homes with the exception of Lacey Lane. It was a gated community which sat behind our castle and seemed to be protected by its gates and our kingdom walls. Police cars and soldiers were everywhere. I could hear spells being shouted. Werewolves howled to warn their packs. Sounds of guns, swords and other awful noises filled the air and revealed a disjointing of the kingdom’s creatures. The sea of magenta and the Rosen’s red uniforms began to merge as the soldiers of our respected families charged toward each other with swords drawn. I could already see people bleeding out on the street. When the broadcast ended and the Rosen gates opened, citizens were just going out for the night or returning home from work or shopping, all of them unaware of the chaos that had been unleashed. The screams and yelling were becoming too much to handle. Ariek’s presence was a shock considering everyone had assumed he died long ago and hadn’t been reincarnated. It was even more difficult to comprehend that Daniel was his child! Before I could ask Caroline what to do I heard another dragon’s cry.

Oh my God. Elizabeth murmured as she and Stefan approached us.

Where are the four dragons that attacked the Emergent Building? I asked. I didn’t even want to look out the window any longer.

Stefan, check the updates. Elizabeth commanded.

I already did. All of them have been sighted in different places. Two are protecting the Rosen Kingdom and another one has landed itself on top of the prison which most likely means-

November is breaking out. I huffed, dropping my head into my hands.

Yeah, and no one knows where the last one flew off to, it’s probably gone back to wherever it came from. He replied.

Did you call Rosalia?

Yeah, she finally picked up. Razor went to Daniel’s house to return something and I guess they got into a fight. Razor was bitten by Daniel and is now having an adverse reaction to it. It seems that Daniel isn’t only capable of deception and mind games; he must have some other powers. Marcus and Eric went with Rosalia to take Razor back home. I told her to stay there since it might be safer as no one from Travinstein really knows him. I don’t think anyone would go there and I don’t think Daniel has anyone after her right now. Stefan looked for approval from Caroline.

That sounds good to me. Sebastian, call Nathan and tell him to stay put. No one leaves where they are until tomorrow and only under my or Richard’s orders! Caroline rushed away to answer her phone.

I could hear her speak to Uncle Richard, by the sounds of it we would be expecting him to come home soon.

Sebastian, this is awful. Elizabeth sighed.

You should be resting. I reminded her.

There is no way I’m sleeping with all of this happening.

DANIEL

While all the screaming, yelling and hiding was going on, I went through the underground tunnels to visit the Travin tribe. The Travin tunnels weren’t really any different from being above ground, there were people everywhere. As usual, I could hear Haven shouting orders demanding that other Travin members be executed. She was culling the herd as she called it, determining who was going to join her on the journey to merge with the Rosen kingdom and who was going to be eliminated from the situation. Haven had gone into a whirlwind of grief and need for revenge when her brother Lake died in the churchyard a few years ago. She had been November’s friend for years before this whole thing started so when I showed up after November was thrown in prison I asked Haven to help me. I knew Morgan could help Corail within Travinstein and then deliver things to me, but I also knew Haven didn’t want to see the Travin tribe die out so soon. Their numbers were growing lower, she was desperate, and I was convincing and powerful so naturally she fell for it.

Haven! I called out her name, drawing her attention.

Where have you been? Why did you not give me a warning? She huffed.

Consider this your warning. I’m going to go get November with Corail in a minute and I came to see if you had everything under control down here, but with all the screaming…it appears you don’t.

Only because you gave me no warning about this! Haven was about to say more but Morgan came jogging up to her.

He had been living here with them peacefully working alongside them well and trying to get his grip on things. He was fifteen now but I could see that Haven was beginning to find his presence tedious and useless.

Haven, what’s going on? Why is everyone running around?

Morgan, not now! She snapped.

Everything is going crazy though! People are getting killed down here and other people are cleaning up the bodies! Why is there packing going on? Why are we running? Where are we going? He screeched.

Morgan, she’s trying to think. I replied with a playful smile.

Why did Daniel go through with his broadcast tonight? Morgan poked at her.

Morgan. I’m thinking about what to do next!

Okay, but the riot….what-

Suddenly, Haven spun around on the kid and with a loud rip he fell to the floor. In true vampire fashion, she had left a very gruesome laceration in his neck and I let out a laugh.

That’s the funniest thing I’ve seen all day! I kicked the lifeless boy a little for fun.

I can’t believe I just did that! You’re rubbing off on me! She growled pushing me back.

You’re cute with blood on your mouth. I chuckled wiping the corner of her bottom lip with my thumb.

Stop it. She shoved me away from her again.

Whatever. Listen, are you coming with me to get your best friend or not?

I’m not. I have stuff to do here. Go on without me. She sighed.

Are you sure?

Yes, I’m sure. Just go get November and hurry up before we somehow get caught.

Okay, but make sure you bring me the good jewelry boxes from this place! I like the flashy stuff you know! I’ll see you at the castle. Try and be quick, it never looks good on people to be late. I yawned, walking away from her.

Can you at least take Morgan’s body with you? She snapped.

You have people for that and I’m not one of them! I responded continuing my walk.

November

There was confusion and disorder in the prison. I didn’t know what was causing such a fuss until I heard roaring. Apparently a dragon landed on top of the prison. Two guards appeared at my cell to protect me from whatever the commotion was centered upon.

Why is there a dragon here? I shouted.

Quiet! One of the guards yelled at me.

What’s happening? I demanded.

We’ve got Prisoner 742 guarded. Dismiss any other security. All clear on this floor. The situation is contained. The other spoke into his transmitter.

Understood. A voice came through.

I snarled at them but neither one reacted with more than a laugh. I heard the door at the end of the hall open, there were footsteps approaching.

Daniel! Look! Look! She’s so cute, can we keep her?

I looked up, caught by curiosity and surprise when I saw Corail and Daniel on the other side of the bars.

I don’t know. She looks like she has a lot of energy. She may make a mess at home. Daniel teased.

But Daniel! I want this one! Corail whined.

If you want her, I guess we can keep her! He rolled his eyes and she giggled.

What are you two doing? The dragon is here because of you two, isn’t it? I got off the floor.

You’re going home. Daniel stated.

I snickered in response.

No, seriously, what are you two doing here? What’s going on? I sighed.

No one said anything. Instead the guards who had been watching me for the past year stepped aside. One took out a key and unlocked my cell.

Thank you boys. Daniel grinned.

No problem Mr. Rosen. They smiled.

How does everyone know each other? I glanced around.

They don’t just work for the prison they work for me too. Daniel explained stepping inside.

Are you serious?

What? You thought I was going to let you be sent off to prison with no protection? He tilted his head to one side with a sort of mocked expression of innocence.

I broke out into a giggle. All the planning had been successful! Uncle Ariek’s power must have been fully restored and Daniel finally came out as Ariek’s other child. Trey should be in top condition now and I was a free woman. The dragon was going to take me back to my castle. Flying back I saw a riot that made my heart swell with excitement, by the looks of it, the Rosen Army was winning.

ROSALIA

This was my fault.

This was my fault because of whom I decided to date in my young and foolish teenage years. How naïve could I have been? How did I allow my silly, childish, emotions to lead us to this point of destruction?

The Creation of Emergent was destroyed along with millions of jobs. Even though my mother was safe, I still felt like part of her soul died with the building. Part of Razor died too, the human part of him. I knew he would recover, but that also meant he would be turning into something we knew nothing about. It was weird to see the fang marks on him slowly fade away. We watched the announcement Ariek and Daniel had made while we tried to figure out what to do with Razor. After his bite had healed he became agitated then vomited. He was livid with Daniel but had no appropriate way to let it out. For everyone’s safety it was decided that we would stay with him at his house for the night, since his father was away on business for a week.

I had no clue what would happen tomorrow. A riot had erupted lasting a little over an hour before my mother was forced to tell our troops to retreat. A majority of the Rosen guards had backed down though some still roamed the streets. We needed soldiers to stand watch at the castle. The casualty rate was reported to be high.

I glanced at Razor, noticing his eyes were now a more intense emerald green with flickers of gold in them. Marcus and Eric left us alone even though we all knew no one would be sleeping tonight; we were too terrified and paranoid. I cried twice already out of frustration and now I was about to cry again. I felt so helpless, like I couldn’t do anything about what was happening. I was stuck here in the mortal world while my own world was in a state of shock and turmoil.

Stop crying. Razor placed a hand on my thigh while we sat looking through news reports on my phone. There were a total of 117 people injured and 30 dead. There was no purpose in trying to rest, everything was unnerving.

This is my fault. I sniffled.

No, it isn’t. I’m upset about Travinstein too. From the short time I was there I thought it was beautiful. Listen, you’re not the one who declared war and seized power. I’m not thrilled that I’m turning into whatever Daniel is, but we have to focus on what our next move is going to be. Don’t worry about me. He sighed.

I hate this. I growled.

Until we hear anything about Daniel or Ariek, we have to try and stay composed. He insisted.

Daniel and Ariek had gone missing, not that anyone was surprised. The Travin tunnels were automatically searched only to be found empty with the exception of a few of Stefan’s things. Since Haven was involved with Daniel, I assumed the Travin probably knew what was going to happen. Poor Stefan probably felt guilty that he hadn’t noticed anything out of the ordinary. When I spoke with him he apologized for not knowing what Haven was doing. No one held it against him, we knew he loved us. I could never blame Stefan and I could never be mad at him.

I feel stupid! I twisted my hair tie around my fingers.

You’re not stupid. Razor took the hair tie away from me and began pulling my hair up into a ponytail.

So many people are being affected by this! Ariek wants Sebastian to work for him! Stefan and Eddrick aren’t as safe as they once were! You aren’t even human anymore and I don’t know what you’re going to be capable of in a few days! I don’t know how I’m going to be able to help you! Emergent was destroyed and everyone who worked there no longer has a job! All of my mother’s years of hard work have been shattered!

Rosalia, stop it. Razor cooed as he reached for me.

I’m sorry. I can’t help it, but know that I’m so happy you’re okay. I curled up next to him this time.

We’re going to find a way to get through this. He mumbled into my hair before coughing lightly.

He was still in pain even though his scars had all healed. His glasses were broken but that didn’t matter since he no longer needed them.

How are you so calm? I asked.

Oh, I’m absolutely terrified. I’m faking this serenity just to keep you from losing it. I know I can’t change what happened tonight, and I can’t change what I’m becoming or that the building was torn apart; but I am trying to keep it together and think positively. I mean hey, maybe because of this the odds of us being together increased? He tried to laugh, but I could tell by how he rubbed his shoulder that he was still hurting.

Happy Birthday. My tone was gloomy.

Oh yeah. He actually grinned a little.

I had a lot planned for you, but it’s going to have to wait. You’ll still get your presents though. I might give you extra presents. This has to be the worst birthday you’ve ever had. I uttered sheepishly.

Don’t worry about my gifts. Is it the best birthday ever? No. Is it the worst? No, because at least you’re here. I didn’t have you last year. He shook his head.

I hugged him and he rubbed my head softly. There was a knock on the door before Marcus and Eric came in.

We don’t want to be alone. Eric shrugged.

I think it’s safe to assume we’re all nervous. Marcus sighed.

Eric, do you really know what’s happening to me or was Daniel lying? Razor inquired.

I know a few things. It’s okay. I’ll do whatever I can to help. Eric replied.

So…what do you guys want to do while we suffer from insomnia? I asked as Marcus and Eric climbed onto the bed with us.

Honestly, we can sit in silence and I think we’d all feel better, as long as we aren’t separated. Eric tapped my foot.

That sounds good to me. Razor nodded.

We sat in silence with soft music playing in the background, anxiously texting the rest of our loved ones as we waited for sunrise.

Daniel

The dark wooden table that was meant for dinner parties in the Rosen Kingdom was receiving more guests tonight than it had seen in about seven years. My father sat at the head of the table with me to his right and Trey to his left. November was across from me. She smiled as waiters lavished her with food and drinks. Corail sat by Trey, and Haven was the last to arrive, taking a seat beside November.

Took you long enough. I snidely remarked.

I had to be super careful! She hissed. We were in a rush to clear the tunnels and move out since you were so impulsive tonight! I had to track down the Travin I wanted to keep, kill everyone else, hide the bodies, and then wipe the place clean! You should have told me you were going to do the announcement tonight instead of tomorrow! And there were Cassadine soldiers everywhere! Needless to say, we had to find other ways to get here without being seen. She griped in disgust. I almost found her contempt cute.

Your little fangs poke out when you’re mad. I teased her. She narrowed her eyes.

Did you finally decide what you were going to do about that Morgan kid? Trey asked her.

Haven and I had gone back and forth over whether or not Morgan was of any use to us. At first he was a good way to get messages to the Travin during the day and he felt comfortable with everyone underground, but alas in the end, his annoying demeanor had determined his fate.

Dead. Haven replied with a slight smirk.

Damn. Poor kid, only lived to see fifteen. Trey shook his head.

Welcome back, everyone. My father interjected.

Hi, Uncle Ariek. November grinned.

Hello, my dear. I must say, I’m impressed and proud of you, especially for keeping all of this from Nathan, even though I would have wanted him involved.

Thank you; and you know Nathan never would have gotten involved. She quipped.

As we all know, I have regained my strength. My father announced as he took a deep breath in, Daniel, I am overjoyed to have you back in Travinstein with us. Seventeen years without you has been an impatient waiting game. You have done so much to make this come to life, thank you. He praised me.

Anything for family. I nodded.

It was a nice idea to tear down Emergent, he continued, it’s ridiculous to have a building dedicated to merging two worlds that belong nowhere near each other. Now, we must decide what we wish to do next.

May I ask a question? Corail piped up.

By all means, please do. Father responded.

How are you ever going to get Sebastian Cassadine on your side? She asked.

I know Sebastian will not be easily persuaded. He will stay loyal to that family, but it is essential that I take both his and Caroline’s power. If I could only find a way to bring him to me, it would make draining him easier. Unfortunately, I’m sure he’ll be stubborn, forcing us to go with plan B. Do you children realize what happens between our kingdoms and Travinstein citizens? He sighed.

What do you mean? Haven frowned.

Well…would any of you three care to explain? He asked, glancing between me, Trey and November.

November decided to take the lead.

Travinstein was founded by the Travin tribe; but eventually the Sandella family was taken down and banished to the underground tunnels. It was only a few years later that our family, the Rosens, brought to Travinstein even more riches as well as an abundant amount of mermaids to enchant the waters here. This made our family an important influence within the realm. The citizens felt there should be a way to keep the ruling family, the Cassadines, strong and in power and it was agreed that since the Rosen family would be second in command, they should be allowed the same opportunity-

Do you know why signed documents regarding heirs to thrones are protected and hidden so well that only the ones who signed it know where it is?" I interrupted.

Why? Haven sneered.

Wait, only the people who signed the document knew where it was kept? Corail frowned.

Yes, and of course the person who created the document. November rolled her eyes. When a royal pledges to take over the throne, they pledge to do right by the people. So the documents are magically bound. Once they are signed, the royal becomes connected to the citizens. For example, Caroline, Sebastian, Rosalia and Elizabeth all have signatures on their Royal Pledge documents for the Cassadine Kingdom. So the more Travinstein citizens support them the more strength they collect. If the citizens stop supporting them their strength diminishes. I explained.

The Rosen family has one of those pacts too, but because we don’t have as many supporters as the Cassadine family we’re weaker. November sighed with a hint of strain.

So the more supporters they have the stronger Caroline, Sebastian, Elizabeth and Rosalia become? Corail raised an eyebrow.

Yes, and if the Rosen family gain more supporters, the stronger Trey, Daniel, and I become. November stated.

I forgot Nathan gave his portion of the kingdom to Trey. Haven whispered.

Fortunately, we have a small advantage. Rosalia, Elizabeth and Sebastian lived in the human world so much they aren’t entirely aware of how much magic they can actually make. Trey commented.

Yes, and I’m not sure they know they’re capable of potentially shifting into an animal of choice in its entirety if they really tried. November agreed.

Wait! They can shift into an animal in its entirety? Haven exclaimed.

They’re strong enough they just don’t know it. I mentioned.

However, there is a small…set back. My father grumbled.

What’s the set back? Corail asked.

The Rosen family and Cassadine family once had a peace treaty. I announced.

Really? Haven looked confused.

Yes. There was a peace treaty written between my father and Liam Cassadine. When my father killed Liam the peace treaty was broken. Breaking promises has its price, it just depends on fate what that price is. The price for father was his transferring power to the citizens. Though he’s alive, his magic is barely there. He has no true power, but there’s no way we’re letting the people know that. He has to talk a big game until we can restore his power. Admittedly, Trey and I are a little limited with what we currently have, but at least we aren’t in father’s condition and fortunately, Trey’s name is on the papers.

How are you and Ariek going to get enough power then? Haven asked looking at me.

I need Nathan. Ariek proclaimed.

How on earth are we going to get Nathan? Corail almost laughed.

We get Melissa. I stretched.

November stopped eating her welcome home cake and tilted her head to look at me.

Excuse me? She frowned.

I have already made arrangements for Melissa; just wait a week or two. By tomorrow I’m sure many citizens will be heated and petrified. I say for the first two weeks we let them protest at the Cassadine castle and outside of ours, and we all know some of them will. We go ahead and let a few people run away because you know the solution for some is going to be to pack up their families and escape. I plan on making a speech about how Travinstein has fallen from its once high standards and then I’ll declare war against the Cassadines if I see the crowd is hyped up. I can use my powers to win people over. Eventually, I should be able to control their emotions toward me by simply appearing in their line of vision. I’ll work on the Soulfrets by reining in the werewolves, and that will show why certain creatures deserve this land over those who ruined it. It’s all about wording and timing. I stood letting everyone know my part of the meeting was over. Oh, by the way November, when Nathan returns to the kingdom, and he will return, it’s going to be up to you to care for him, think you can do that?

Of course I can. She sneered.

I wasn’t sure if you were still bitter. I scowled.

I am, but I’ll do it to regain strength. She nodded.

Good. Tonight was successful. Sleep well everybody. I smiled before going to my room.

MELISSA

No one really slept last night. The only people in the house were Claire, Nathan, Arbri and I. At some point I did fall asleep, but when I woke up I found Claire answering the door. I knew a lot of things were about to change. Marcus, Eric, Rosalia and Razor came in giving her hugs, and I mean actual, long, meaningful, hugs. I watched as Rosalia came up the stairs sporting one of Razor’s shirts. She smiled at me, running a hand through my hair.

Is he okay? I asked.

Physically, yeah I think he is. I don’t know where his emotions are though, he seems okay, but I think he’s trying to keep his chin up for me. She divulged, as she rubbed my shoulder.

May I talk to him? I asked.

Not to be rude, but I can hear both of you. Razor called from downstairs.

It was weird seeing him without glasses and you could tell he felt weird too, he kept reaching up to adjust them before realizing they weren’t there.

Sorry. Rosalia and I replied in unison.

Rosalia, why don’t you take a shower and get in some comfortable clothes, okay? Melissa, sweetheart, you can talk to me for however long you’d like. Razor smiled.

I made my way toward him while Rosalia disappeared from my view with a faint smile.

Hey. I smiled.

Hi.

He looked tired and I understood how it felt. The drag transformation brought on was so exhausting on top of everything else that had happened.

What’s it feel like to you? I softly asked.

I feel different, but I don’t want to scare Rosalia. I can tell something is stirring inside of me but it’s not going to show itself yet. They don’t know what I’m becoming. He sighed.

Surely you’re not going to use your deception for evil. I nodded.

I don’t know. I hope not. I don’t want to hurt anyone. I can tell something is off, but whatever this is, it’s going to take it’s time before I explode. He walked with me into the living room.

I heard Eddrick and Elizabeth are both safe. I sat next to him on the couch.

Yeah, they released Eddrick and a bunch of dragons a week ago and Elizabeth recovered. He nodded.

Do you think you’ll be able to use magic? Do you even know what powers you’ll have?

I don’t know what I can do! Daniel clearly has some different abilities, but I don’t have a single clue what mine will be.

Rosalia will take care of you.

And I’ll take care of her. He smiled.

You really care about her.

Yeah, I do. More than I’ve ever said to her. He nodded.

I’m glad. Happy Birthday, by the way!

Thanks, Melissa! Are Caroline and Richard here? He asked.

They will be. I said as I heard car doors closing.

Claire answered the door. Sebastian, Jade, Elizabeth, Stefan, and Eddrick came stumbling in with Caroline and Richard behind them.

Hi everyone. I said as they piled themselves into the living room. We waited for Rosalia to finish her shower and get dressed before we began our meeting.

Dad, I’m so sorry. Rosalia mumbled standing in front of him with her head down.

Honey, I don’t blame you.

I blame me.

I know you do. Your mother and I have a plan for your safety; it’s just going to take some time to adjust to it. He pulled her into a hug.

Richard, I think we can start. Caroline quietly stated.

Rosalia walked away from her father and sat between Razor and Eric on the couch. I saw her glance at Richard with such guilt, he had to look away.

We know you’re all shook up about yesterday, he began, you like everyone else in Travinstein right now, you’re scared and that’s okay. It’s not anyone’s fault what’s happened. Penipu’s are gifted at these things. When Rosalia and Stefan went to the angels two years ago, the angels were deceived as well. You can’t blame them for not being able to see past such masterful trickery. He stared at his daughter for a moment before Caroline spoke up.

I’m afraid it’s too dangerous for any of us to stay here. I know it seemed like it took forever for us to leave the castle this morning, but there were so many people and so much upheaval left from last night. When Richard came home, the first things we decided were where we are moving you children, when we are going to do it, how we are going to move you, and of course, what do we do about Requil and Razor. Nathan, I’m giving Requil a choice to stay here in the mortal world with some protection or to come with us to the castle. Razor, I don’t know how you feel about leaving everything you’ve known, but you do realize you’re now a danger to human society. We don’t know what you’re able to do and that makes you a new predator here. I’m not sure what you or I could possibly say to convince your father that you need to leave, but-

It won’t take much. I’ll take care of it. Razor confirmed.

We’re giving you kids 72 hours to pack. As far as we know you’re safe for at least that long. We’re moving you to Travinstein. Richard crossed his arms.

We’re going back? Elizabeth looked up.

We’re already in the process of withdrawing all of you from school and we’re making arrangements. No more living in the human world. If we stay here we risk the humans’ safety and if we move to Travinstein, well…though our own safety isn’t guaranteed, it’s comforting to know that at least we’ll have hundreds of guards, maids, cooks and other crucial staff at the castle. Even Lacey Lane is under considerable protection due to their close proximity. It seems the Cassadine Kingdom and Lacey Lane are the safest zones at this time. Now regarding Requil and Razor, they are the only two we couldn’t withdraw as we aren’t their legal guardians. Even if we were, Razor is now considered legal since he’s eighteen and has to make his own choices. We’ll discuss the situation further when you arrive at the castle. Richard stated.

None of us protested, but I heard sniffling coming from everyone, especially Eric and Arbri.

We’re sorry, but it’s for the better. Caroline soothed us.

caroline

Richard was giving instructions to the boys about watching the house while packing and making sure the girls were okay. Razor looked sick, but that usually happens the first few days that humans are turned. I walked out to the back of the house dialing Cornel’s number.

Caroline! He cried.

Cornel this is chaos! What’s going on in Travinstein?

Protests, crying, and people are in a state of shock. The Bliden boys are popping in and out of my home asking all sorts of questions. Caroline, if I had known about Ariek I never would have had Sebastian and Stefan out so openly like I did! I am so sorry!

It’s fine. I figured you didn’t know about any of this, I know how much you love Stefan.

I do. He’s like my own child, and between you and me, watching over him, I feel a great responsibility toward him. As for Sebastian, I suggest you take him and hide him Caroline. Keep him in the castle and away from the world. If Ariek is serious about wanting to recruit him it wouldn’t surprise me if he sends for him. However, I can’t see Ariek wanting to share any sort of power, so if he gets Sebastian, I can say with confidence, it will be to either drain his power or kill him…perhaps even both.

I’m already ahead of you. I’ve given the kids three days to pack their things. I have security all over the main areas of Travinstein. I’m relocating them to the castle and keeping them there. I’ve sent for one of the greatest knights we have. Listen Cornel, I need you to answer some of my questions.

Ask me anything.

I don’t know what type of things you and the Bliden do. I only knew very little from what Liam told me, but as we know, Bliden members can turn on one another. How much do the other boys know about Sebastian, Stefan and Eddrick’s personal lives?

I don’t know what the boys have shared amongst each other outside of their work. I can already see how scared they are, Caroline. I am taking all the files about Sebastian, Stefan and Eddrick and passing them off to your guards at the gate in a day or two. The second copy that I keep on hand…I’m taking to a far location in Travinstein and burning them. I’ll be leaving to do that at night. I think I’m going to have to practice the one thing I never wanted to. He sighed.

Which is?

A few years ago I taught Stefan to go through people’s memories and thoughts. The Travin were getting a little suspicious of him so I taught him how to create fake memories and fake thoughts to cover up any secret information. I showed him one of the tools that some of Travinstein’s honorable officers use-

You mean the little enchanted metal disc they put on the back of people’s necks?

Yes. Stefan caught on fairly quickly. It’s part of why Claire can’t really get inside his head too easily. It’s also part of why when Lake would torture Stefan for fun he never saw anything about Rosalia or Sebastian or the Bliden. I know Stefan started training Sebastian two years ago after the first little run in with November. Stefan wanted Sebastian to never be vulnerable again. Sebastian is decent at it. It’s helped him when he’s out in Travinstein, and when he’s in unfamiliar territories or even meeting with other royals. I never wanted to use the memory disc on my own Bliden members, but-

You’re having their memories searched? I sighed.

Sometimes the process could cause people to have different reactions; mostly it caused dizziness or confusion. A lot of people blacked out or went in and out of consciousness.

I need to. I would love to believe that they’re all loyal to Sebastian if not because he’s royal then because he’s been alongside them doing this type of work since he was fifteen. Some of them seem so edgy that I can’t help but wonder if Ariek traveled underneath the tunnels taking up energy from the boys. How did he know exactly where they were sitting above ground? I have a lot of spells on my home Caroline; a lot of spells and charms that would prevent even Ariek from breaking into my house, no matter how hard he was to try. Tomorrow, I am asking you to send Eddrick over. I want him to help call each of the boys in, hold them down and search them. He gave a heavy, sad, sigh.

What are you going to do if one of them is a traitor?

I think you know. Cornel’s tone was quieter.

That’s breaking one of your codes, isn’t it?

Caroline, I have a terrible feeling we’re all about to break some of our codes.

I’ll have Eddrick escorted as discreetly as I can.

Thank you.

What about the others? What are you going to do with them?

Ariek is going to want the Bliden on his side. He is the one who created the society in the first place. He brought them to power; he used them for justifying his actions and made them heroic figures to the few who heard of their legacy. He is also the one who turned them into a darker force until he disappeared and the position was passed down and reformed back to its good intentions. Knowing Ariek, he will still see the Bliden as rightfully his, not mine. I’m going to have to hide the other boys. I’m going to use my resources and connections to send them into safer places. If I can get some of them hidden and out of Travinstein I will, but I want some hidden here still so if the boys need extra help they have people.

Cornel I’m so sorry.

Caroline, it’s okay. This is what we do. The Bliden were made to stay hidden and keep secrets. The hard part for me is having to search them all. He sighed.

Cornel if you need protection…I don’t know if I could give you some sort of Cassadine security without raising suspicion, but-

No Caroline. It’ll be too risky. They’ll ask why I’m being protected, they’ll find the Bliden and then all of them will be arrested which includes Eddrick, Stefan, and unfortunately Sebastian, despite him being the next king.

Try and be careful, Cornel.

I will. Good luck, Caroline.

Thank you.

REQUIL

As I opened the front door to my house, Nathan looked miserable.

Hey! I said hugging him.