Podrovsky's Line

By B.A. Rewis

If you ever thought your family was complicated, meet Vladimir Podrovsky.
Have you ever had your parents tell you Its time for bed or rest? Well
Vladimir must continually tell his people that its time to rest.
Have you ever been talking to your children and feel like youre a broken record?
This is Vladimirs problem. Hes constantly repeating himself with every one of the vampires within his line.
He fully accepts that these men and women are his responsibility; the problem is that they just dont seem to want to listen.
On top of all his familial issues there is a vindictive vampire trying to eliminate him and some of the men in his family.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jun 10, 2015
• ISBN: 9781503571358

B.A. Rewis

B.A lives in Wisconsin, where she has grown up with her adoptive parents. She has been writing since she was twelve years old and enjoys it immensely. She aspires to be a great writer and a well published author. When asked where she gets her ideas, her common response is “They just come to me, usually while I’m doing something menial like dishes or cleaning the bathroom.” She is her own worst critic. B.A. is looking forward to publishing more.

Book preview

Chapter I

YOU’RE A WHAT?

"C ome along Nikolai; keep up." Annaya taunted. She was ethereal, at least Nikolai had thought so at one time. Ivan would have raced to keep up, but Nikolai did not care to. He knew she was playing them against one another and he was tired of the games. He would tell Ivan he could take the siren if he wanted her. Nikolai however, he was through.

Nikolai, Ivan would come and ride with me. She said, trying to taunt him once more.

Then you should have asked Ivan to ride with you. Nikolai replied. And do not pout, it is unbecoming of a true lady. He allowed his horse to walk, taking its time, making his way across the field. He had played sticks and ball the day before on that very field; he knew there was a rather large hole to the left and up about sixty feet. He guided the horse further to the right.

Annaya there is a rather large hole to the left, mayhap we had better go this way to avoid it. Nikolai informed her.

Oh bother, what caused that I wonder. She responded, and suddenly the chestnut colored mare bolted, rearing on her hind quarters.

Screaming in fright, she cried out to Nikolai, who was directly behind her on his own steed. He pushed his bay faster overtaking Annaya and the mare in a mere heartbeat. He grabbed her by her coated waist and lifted her from the English style saddle she was in.

His bay pitched forward causing Nikolai to drop Annaya as he flew over the pummel of his saddle; landing hard upon his back. He naturally rolled as he hit the ground, unfortunately he rolled in the wrong direction and he ended up under the bay. He was partially visible, but couldn’t move to pull himself out from under the horse, as he lay trapped under his horse his hand came to a rest on its heaving side; he was disoriented for a moment then he recalled why he had been riding so hard. Annaya.

That was quite rude, you…you…you brute! How dare you pull me to safety then drop me as you would a serving wench after you have bedded her? Annaya screeched in outrage and stomped around the downed horse that was trying to rise. Its right forequarter lay at an odd angle and the bay lay panting in obvious distress, its eyes rolling inside its head. As she rounded the other side Annaya blanched and her knees buckled, dropping her beside Nikolai’s body.

Nikolai was unconscious, pinned under the horse, blood seeping from his head from the gash there. His skin was alabaster and he looked as if he had been touched by death. She reached out to touch his face and pulled back as his eyes slowly opened.

Nikolai…oh dear lord… what do I do? She cried.

Go…stable…hand. He ground out through clenched teeth. He closed his eyes and his face became lax, as though he simply lay sleeping. Annaya rose and raced toward the stables.

She was half way there when the stable man came racing across the field on a horse while the stable boy was hitching the cart.

Lady Annaya! Your horse returned without you. Looking around then back at her. Where is Master Podrovsky? She pointed toward the field. He is trapped by his horse and looks to be near death, his head bleeds. We must hurry! She gasped out.

The stable man turned to the boy. Andre bring the rifle and a shovel, also a tarp to lay Master Nikolai on. My Lady Annaya, you have had quite a fright. Mayhap you should go inside we will bring him in. The man who appeared to be too young to have a teenage boy said, and Annaya looked at him suspiciously, wondering just how old the man was. This region was rife with legend and lore, but all she said was…I will go in, but I will have his chamber prepared. I will send the house boy to retrieve his brother Ivan.

Thirty minutes later the stable man, Henri and the boy Andre could be seen carrying the tarp through the lower halls. Every servant knew what was being transported and all of them averted their gaze. Many had tears, slowly streaming down their faces.

As masters went, many felt that Nikolai Podrovsky was the best one could hope for. He was a fair master, harsh when necessary but fair. He was much like his older brother Ivan. They both settled disputes within their houses. Their final decision was law and the only one’s higher were the steward and then God himself. Their enemies knew not to challenge one without extending the challenge to them both.

They were as close as brothers could be and when one fell ill the other came to handle the house. Ivan had been away lately, but surely the house boy sent to find him would bring him with all due haste. Another boy was sent to retrieve the healer from town.

While the boys were sent on their respective journeys, the house became like a tomb. The servants went about their chores; while the hand maid prepared a bath for Annaya, another set out a change of clothes and was preparing to help Annaya remove her stained ones.

Your bath is ready my lady. The girl said, her eyes cast down, and sniffle escaping.

Annaya pulled the girl’s head up by her chin, to see tear tracks on her face. Why the tears, I admit I may be a little bruised but I will live. Annaya said. When the girl didn’t answer Annaya struck her, Answer me you ignorant little wench.

Lady Annaya! Master Nikolai does not permit anyone, guest or member of this house to strike members of his staff; we are under orders to insist upon the removal of such a person. As I am currently in charge of Master’s home until Master Ivan arrives to take over, I will ask you to bathe and then a carriage will be made available for you to leave. You will not want to be here when Master Ivan arrives, he would have you removed by force. The head house keeper Sara informed her. Maria, you are free of this duty, scoot girl. Sara said to the chamber maid. Send Levinia up here to pack the lady’s belongings. Maria did as instructed and fled the room, running through the hall; down the stairs and was on her way to the kitchen when she ran into a living, breathing wall.

Ivan Podrovsky had arrived, he extended his hand to the young maid and noticed the red mark and developing bruise forming on her tender flesh.

Tell me child who dared lay their hand on you. You will tell me now, Nikolai would not tolerate this and neither shall I, so tell me.

Lady Annaya, sire, I was crying over Master being hurt, and she thought I was crying because she had some purple marks on her legs and waist; she slapped me. I have been sent to get Levinia to pack the lady’s clothes, and Sara is helping her bathe. May I go sire? She replied.

Ivan nodded, he would handle Annaya now, since the healer was with Nikolai. Ivan caught one of the maids. Go to the healers tending Nikolai, inform them I am here; I must deal with something and I will be along shortly. The maid nodded and went to do as commanded.

Ivan raced up the staircase, knocked on the door he knew to be Annaya’s; Sara allowed him entrance.

Master Ivan come in, she is just about done dressing. Levinia has just finished stowing her clothes in the trunk. Forgive me, I thought it best to have the lady leave. Was I wrong?

No Sara, you most certainly were not. Levinia you may take your leave, worry not about Master, he will pull through. Sara, you must stay here with me, for I fear I may throttle that woman. Levinia send up a couple of the house boys to retrieve her luggage as soon as you get back down stairs. With that Sara moved to stand beside and behind the high back chair Ivan had occupied.

Annaya! Come in here and stop eavesdropping you wench. Actually you are worse than that, you are a coward. You struck one of my brother’s house because she cried for him. Get out here before I come in there and pull you out by your hair! Slowly Annaya emerged from the dressing room to face a very angry and disgusted Ivan.

He seemed a little more feral than he had in the past, his eyes moving quickly over her. He seemed to command attention and take up every free inch of space. The menace she saw in his glare meant she had gone beyond herself when she struck the wench.

In my defense, I did ask her why she was crying she didn’t answer. I was trying to shake her from her tears. Annaya said sullenly.

By striking her when you knew that neither Nikolai nor I strike any of our staff. You knew that and yet you still did it. Remain standing; DO NOT come here again until my brother sends for you, should he live. Your actions have caused a worse upheaval than his accident, now the men have removed your things, get out and DO NOT come back. Ivan said through clenched teeth.

I was going to sit with Nikolai as his fiancé I am entitled. Annaya claimed.

Sara gasped and looked to Ivan, shaking her head very slightly. Ivan caught the gesture none the less.

Sara, you wish to refute this insinuation made against your master? Tell me.

Master Nikolai told me personally that he knew that she was pitting or attempting to pit you and him against one another. He was going to tell her at dinner that he was through with the game. She said.

Not before, but at dinner, you are certain of this? Ivan continued the interrogation of his brother’s house servant.

Yes, he wanted witnesses who would report the truth to you and anyone who asked. But not until dinner. Sara replied unbent by the hate filled glare that Annaya sent her way.

SHE LIES! Annaya declared.

She would not dare to lie to me, she knows what would happen if she were caught lying. Ivan rebutted.

What would happen Sara? Annaya asked suddenly unsure she really wanted to know.

My family and I would be required to leave and we would be forced to admit my shame until we left the region. My family is way too important and the respect from both Master Nikolai and Master Ivan is too great to me and mine. I DO NOT LIE! Sara decried.

Thank you Sara. Annaya I wish to see to my brother, I want you gone now. Ivan said unflinchingly.

Sara see to it that she makes it off the grounds, as quickly as possible. With that task completed Ivan left, making his way to his brother’s bedside on the main floor. He slowly opened the door leading to his chamber.

As he entered he saw the man who meant all the world to him lying so pale in the center of the king size bed. Looking at him, he didn’t seem like the man who was six foot, four and a half inches tall, made of muscle, sinew and bone.

Tell me healer, will he see the rising of the sun on the morrow or will I be putting him the ground? Ivan asked, his voice catching a bit.

He will survive, but whether he will ever move on his own again is another question. We have done all we can for him, I am sorry. The healer replied, regret tinging his voice. The rest is up to him I am afraid. I will be around in a couple of days to check on him. The healer left Ivan with his thoughts.

Ivan sat upon the edge of the bed, carefully lifted Nikolai’s hand and brought it to his face. He leaned over and looked at Nikolai and his heart contracted painfully.

Nikolai, please brother, open your eyes. Ivan implored.

He will not, not for a while yet. The healer gave him a drought to help him sleep. Came an unfamiliar voice. Ivan turned to see a male standing there, he did not recognize the man, and he took up a defensive position ready to protect Nikolai at all costs.

Who the devil are you? Ivan asked shocked, normally his hearing was so acute he could hear a horse whinny in the stables.

My name is Viktor, and you are Ivan, older brother to young Nikolai there. The man replied.

I know who I am, who are you, and what do you want? What are you doing here? Ivan asked again, irritation reflected in his voice.

I am here to make you an offer, one that will be of great use to both of you and give me what I want. Viktor replied.

What kind of an offer, I doubt you have anything either of us could or would want.

What about your brother’s health? He will not be able to walk again. He will waste away, and eventually beg you to take his life.

You do not know such things, how could you? Ivan asked, skepticism coloring his voice.

I am talented with a gift of foresight. Viktor said.

You practice the dark arts; you are a demon! Ivan hissed. Stay away from us.

I am no demon, you need to calm down, or I will have no choice but to force you to do so if you continue this way.

You stay away from us. Ivan repeated, forcing a calming breath into his lungs.

Do you know what happened out there today, has anyone told you? Viktor asked him.

No, I know only that his horse threw him as he tried to save a lady with whom he went riding. Ivan said.

Viktor snorted derisively. That lady would not happen to be Annaya Droskin would it?

Fear skittered down Ivan’s spine. Yes, how did you know, why do you ask?

"That LADY is worse than a viper, in fact a viper is more loyal than that banshee. Viktor spat. SHE is the reason Nikolai is in that bed."

Ivan? Nikolai called out weakly, writhing in pain.

Nikolai! Ivan gasped and turned.

Let me help him sleep through the pain. I really can help. Viktor said.

What is your price? Ivan spat out disgusted that he was actually considering letting this stranger near his beloved brother.

There is no cost to help alleviate his pain and send him back to peaceful slumber.

If you harm him, I will kill you! Ivan said.

Fair enough, now allow me. Viktor said as he moved beside the bed opposite Ivan. He placed a hand gently on Nikolai’s brow; gave a sharp command to sleep. Instantly Nikolai quieted, his breathing evened out and he seemed to be doing exactly as Viktor had commanded. Ivan relaxed a bit knowing that Nikolai rested peacefully.

He will sleep peacefully until I wake him Viktor said.

How did you perform such a feat?

I can do several things of that nature.

But how? Ivan persisted, as he sat on the edge of the bed.

Let us finish our talk of Lady Annaya. Viktor said, changing the subject, knowing that Ivan was not yet ready for the real explanation. Though it would only be a matter of time before the truth came out.

Focusing a moment on whether or not to push the issue Ivan agreed. Yes, I suppose we should. What should I know about this travesty that involves her other than being my brother’s riding companion and the fact that she is completely selfish?

She caused this unfortunate incident. Viktor began.

How, they believe her horse was spooked by something, perhaps a snake or some other creature. I fail to see how that was her doing. Do not mistake me there is nothing between the woman and me, however I do not think she could cause a snake to attack a horse in the middle of a field. Ivan protested.

Earlier you accused me of cavorting with the devil. What if I were to tell you that she is like me, but unlike me at the same time? Viktor asked

You mean other than the obvious, am I correct? Ivan asked a slight smile playing on his lips, the first since hearing of Nikolai’s accident.

Viktor smiled, which caused him to look younger, if that was possible. Yes, other than the obvious. Let me tell you what happened to Nikolai. While they were out riding, Nikolai had to be thinking about telling her that he was through with her games; with her. I know this because this is not the first time this sort of thing has happened. I am constantly going behind her and cleaning up the destruction she has wrought. You would think I would be used to it by now. She is able hear a person’s thoughts if she so chooses. She can also create illusions, there was no snake to startle her mare, it was her, trust me on this. Viktor said confidently.

She is a sorceress? Ivan asked disgustedly.

Nothing so honorable or distinguished I am afraid. Came Viktor’s reply, looking a little leery, as though he was about to say something he wasn’t sure Ivan wanted to hear. She is vampire, with an incredible talent to create illusion.

Are you serious? Vampire? You have lost your demented mind. Vampires are legend; THEY DO NOT EXIST! Ivan exclaimed horrified that he had allowed this demented creature touch his brother.

It was within the space of the beat of his heart that Viktor went from his spot beside Nikolai to standing beside Ivan baring his teeth and exposing razor sharp incisors. Ivan slipped to the floor and crab walked backwards. Viktor had him by the shoulders before Ivan’s eyes could register that Viktor had moved, he went to pull away but Viktor held him fast. Ivan tried yet again to get away from the hell spawn he had allowed to touch his beloved brother.

Ivan! Calm down, your heart is beating so hard I am afraid it will give out. Please, just calm down. Viktor said, placing his palm over Ivan’s heart.

Ivan began calming, he could breathe, and he didn’t feel the terror that had gripped him when Viktor had moved so quickly and bared his teeth.

Dear God in heaven, what are you? He asked.

I told you, I am vampire. Came Viktor’s response.

But…but…but…it is midday. Ivan stuttered. You are outside, are you not required to be in the ground and only walk at night? How can this be?

Come, you have had quite a fright, let us put you in a chair and get off the floor. Viktor said as he helped Ivan up.

Ivan numbly nodded; after seating him in a chair Viktor went to the door, called to one of the house maids and requested two snifters and brandy. He waited until she returned with a tray, took it from her and bowed in a courtly manner and instructed her that Master Ivan would be taking his late meal in the room with his brother to be nearer to him.

That maid has been here with my brother for a long time she should know you are a stranger here. How is it that she just accepts you? Ivan asked surprised, though he knew he probably shouldn’t be.

She believes me to be a healer that agreed to remain behind to care for Nikolai. All of the staff believe it, have no worries I will not go after them. I do not take from unwilling, innocent people.

Okay to Ivan that sounded odd. Unwilling, innocent people? He knew he shouldn’t ask, but he just couldn’t help the curiosity that took hold of him. He knew he shouldn’t but he asked anyway, Unwilling, innocent people?

Yes, but more about that later, just know that everyone in this house is safe. Now back to Annaya. Viktor said, handing Ivan a snifter of brandy. Here drink this, you look like death has visited you.

A wry expression made its way to Ivan’s face, Thank you and please continue. Ivan said, accepting the snifter.

He was interested not only in what Viktor had to say, but also the fact that as he took the glass his fingers brushed Viktor’s; they were warm not cold, like he suspected they might be.

The questions he had regarding the vampire issue could wait. He had to force his attention back to the moment and force himself not to shudder at the idea that there was a man claiming to be a legend or myth standing in front of him. This was just not his day; even with as bad as Nikolai was, he was unconscious. Ivan definitely needed this libation, hell maybe the whole decanter.

She was attempting to gain his interest after she must have heard his thoughts. She is a shrew, she has been trying to pit you and Nikolai against each other, he either found out from one of his servants or he discovered her plot and had decided to discard her as a suitable consort. That would have been enough for her to cause a small accident. My guess is that she did not think the horse would throw your brother.

It did not just throw him, it broke its forequarter in a hole, threw him and landed on him when he attempted to roll away.

Like I said, I do not believe she thought it would turn out this bad. Viktor said.

I do not care! If he does not improve I will kill her!

You could try, it would not work. You are human and she is vampire. She could kill you before you ever got your hands on her. Viktor said.

So what would you have me do? Why tell me this if I am unable to fix the problem that…that…ugh! Ivan declared frustrated.

I never said there was nothing you could not do, I merely pointed out that you are human; she is vampire. Viktor said.

A discreet knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Ivan stood to answer it, and the room began to spin. He swayed dangerously nearly collapsing to the floor, only to be caught by Viktor and helped back to the chair before he fell.

You sit, I will retrieve your meal. You drank that snifter faster than I was aware, add to that the fact that you have experienced a shock or two and most likely have not supped this day. Sit here, I do not relish picking you up from the floor…again. Viktor said, as he retrieved the tray for Ivan. Here eat, I need to gain sustenance myself.

Ivan stiffened visibly. Do not fear, I will not feed from your brother or you, however I ask that I have your permission to use one of the house girls? I know I said I would not take from a member of the house hold staff, but I have waited too long and I have something to take care of. Viktor said, laying a gentle hand on Ivan’s shoulder.

You ask when you could just take. Why? I am curious. Ivan said, relaxing under Viktor’s hand.

I do not and have never thought to use my power to acquire something, when simple manners will do the same. That is one thing that separates me from others of my kind and most definitely Annaya. Ivan didn’t know why he believed Viktor, but he did.

Yes you may use any of the staff you like, just please treat them with respect as we do. We try not to treat them as just servants, but more like extended family. Ivan explained to Viktor.

I understand and will do the same. Eat, we will talk more after I return and we are both nourished. Viktor said as he disappeared.

Chapter II

Annaya

A nnaya was livid, absolutely livid. How dare Ivan kick her out of Nikolai’s home? It wasn’t her fault the stupid horse found the one hole to trip in and Nikolai was thrown. Then there was that stupid wench of a housekeeper, how dare she tell Ivan that Nikolai planned to ask her to leave and not return? How dare Nikolai share personal desires with the hired help? Nikolai would never allow her back not that he would be able to agree. Last she had heard he was close to death; once she had been thrown out she knew there was no way she would not be allowed back.

Hello my little shrew you seem distressed, what is wrong?

"Victor, what are you doing here? How is it you can enter a dwelling without invite? Annaya inquired, incensed that he was able to sneak up on her.

You did invite me, you never uninvited or barred me that was your mistake. Viktor said.

"Come now Viktor, you were never one for small talk, what do you want? Annaya asked irritated that she wouldn’t be able to kick him out.

I want you to stay away from Nikolai, he will need time to heal, and there are plans for him and Ivan. Oh, and just so you are aware, there is now a protection across both their lands and people. If you attempt anything it will be known. Viktor said, a seemingly disarming grin adorning his handsome face.

What plans? No one ever said that there were plans for either one. You knew I wanted Nikolai, how could you make him part of your master plan? She practically shrieked.

For your personal knowledge my little shrew it was not my plan. It is Vladimir’s plan, if you wish to go against him; then by all means; allow me to send him your challenge. Viktor smiled again, only this time it seemed a little more malicious.

NO DO NOT! I will not oppose you, they are free of me, unless one asks me to return. Annaya declared, fear stamped onto her beautifully expressive face.

Oh I know you will, if you attempt to speak, write, or converse in any way; that includes private messenger; I will take your head very slowly. Be assured I will know if you even consider any such action. Viktor said with a decidedly evil grin, he wasn’t even attempting to hide this time. With lightning speed Viktor had Annaya in an unbreakable grip sinking his teeth into her neck.

VIKTOR! NO! Annaya cried out as a wave of desire struck her, her whole body seemed to come to life. She felt the sting of the bite, then the pulse of electricity that seemed to attach itself to each nerve ending.

Ah my little shrew, you are still as delicious as I recall. Now be a good girl and leave those boys alone. Viktor said, wiping the corner of his mouth with the tip of his thumb.

Viktor, please make love to me like we used to.

No, no my little shrew. You had an opportunity to have me, you decided to sleep with those men you fed from while they were without free will. I could not kill them as I would have liked, Vladimir made sure of that; it was because of you he put me to sleep for a year. So now my beautiful shrew I will not satisfy your sexual desires. Viktor told her, and just as quickly as he appeared, he was gone.

Annaya was even angrier, she wouldn’t be able to even seduce Ivan to get back in. Nikolai most likely would never see her again, and WHAT stupid plan did Vladimir have in mind that would require Nikolai and Ivan?

She needed to find sustenance, and a strong body to give her what Viktor refused her. She needed to find a way to Ivan. She no sooner thought it and her head felt as though it was being pulled from her body. She dropped to the floor gripping it.

I told you I would know if you even considered going against my wishes. Bear in mind, that the small amount of pain you just felt will be nothing, if you should actually keep on this path. Came Viktor’s voice in her mind.

Muttering several very un-lady like words, Annaya went out in search of a hard body and hot blood.

Chapter III

The Truth Comes Out

Viktor had left, now Ivan could finally relax completely. That man had to be demented, but then how to explain the teeth and his ability to move like the wind. Ivan was concerned for his brother and now his own sanity was in question. Wasn’t it? How could anyone be a vampire? Weren’t vampires the things of myth and legend? Granted they lived in Romania, but come on, really? A vampire? He needed to get Nikolai out of here to their father’s home in the mountains of Russia. He would be safe there, he wanted to check on Nikolai before he ate, though his food was smelling quite delectable. He went to set his food aside and rise when there was a knock at the door.

Enter. He called out softly forgetting that unless Viktor allowed it, Nikolai would not awaken.

Sire, may I speak to you whilst you dine? It was the stable man, Henri. Yes Henri, of course what can I do for you?

Sire I do not know quite what to say about Master Nikolai, the whole house is saddened by this incident. He is a great man to work for. Henri said, his voice catching a bit as he glanced at the man in the bed.

I am glad to hear that his people enjoy working for him and respect him so greatly that they are missing him though he is in his bed. Ivan said, looking at Nikolai as well.

Sire, I know that you and Master Nikolai are new here, I mean I know you have been in this area for only a few months, but you have helped many of us survive the last cold season. I was asked to give our thanks. Also if I may, I was raised here my entire life, do you know of a few of the legends? Henri asked, glancing surreptitiously as though he was looking for someone.

No, no I do not believe I do. Ivan said.

Please sire eat, you must keep up your strength. Henri said, staring openly at the tray of untouched food before Ivan.

All right Henri, I will eat if you tell me of the legends.

Well sire the legend is this, this home used to belong to a lord who became indebted in some way to the steward of the region. This region has always been rife with war and an abundance of other things you hear about in church and from the bible, but excuse me I get off topic. Any way one looks at it, the legend is this, the old lord angered the steward who was into; it is rumored; the dark arts and because the lord angered him, the steward cursed him to becomes the most vile of creatures. At this point and crossing himself several times before he continued, Henri leaned into Ivan and lowering his voice; whispered one word. Vampire.

Shocked that a reasonable sort of man in his brother’s employ would give credence to such things, Ivan carefully placed his utensils on the plate and sat staring at Henri. You believe this legend. Ivan asked.

"Yes sire, that man that sat here with you, he is one such creature but different, according to the legends until the old lord became vampire, many the existing creatures were a murderous lot. The lord kept his lands after he became vampire and insisted that any man, human or vampire caught committing a crime against his neighbor would suffer his wrath. He was a benevolent lord to those he watched over. Eventually people began to notice that he aged very slowly and he was forced to leave for many years at a time. He moved to a neighboring region where he was still beholden to the steward but the people didn’t know him. Every few years he would return as a descendant of his own, then go back.

Rumor began that the old lord had perished. A few years later a man who was a younger version of the lord appeared, claiming to be his son. Now this son had a wife and two small sons of his own. There was talk that it was in fact the old lord; who under the curse was able to become young again. Eventually the boys became men. The son’s name was Vladaslov, his were named Viktor and Alexei. It is rumored that Alexei had perished in a skirmish with an enemy as no one has seen him in many years." Henri finished his story.

Ivan nearly fell out of the chair, no one was supposed to know of his father’s disappearance, how is it this man, this stable hand, knew of his father; more importantly, he knew of the legends that Ivan had never believed in. Of course Ivan had heard them, but it was like most people who grew up hearing fantastic stories about their families. One never knew exactly what the truth was and what was told as embellishment for entertainment purposes.

Henri lowered his voice, and looked around expecting something to jump out from the shadows.

You have met Viktor; I know he was here; I saw him using one of the house girls for sustenance. He didn’t kill her but his eyes glowed. Henri, shivered. "When he was done, she bid him farewell and went about her way. He is the one of the sons, he is Alexei’s brother. Viktor is vampire. He has protected these lands for centuries, just as his father Vladaslov, and his grandfather, the old lord Vladimir did.

Without warning Viktor appeared beside Henri, who jumped and landed on one knee before the vampire.

You have returned, I am sorry, I was not aware you would be coming back. Henri said making sure to avert his gaze.

You have told him, why? You know you are not supposed to interfere with us.

I wasn’t going to interfere the way many would think. I wished only to put him at ease, master. Perhaps to let him know that the only true way to ensure Master Nikolai’s recovery is for him to become like his ancestor; to become as you are.

You know what I am, how is this possible? Viktor asked suspiciously.

"I have lived a long time master, your father’s father wanted a few of those loyal to him to have knowledge of his legend. I stay on this land and so do all the rest, none see us as we never leave. The children know nothing.

When I saw you feed from Elsa I knew you were the true master’s son’s son. Please forgive me I meant no harm." Henri said.

You were to be serving Alexei, yet all of you stayed when he became lost, why?

We are loyal to Vladimir, Alexei is of his line, just as you are. We would never give up the trust Vladimir placed in us all those years ago. Lady Annaya does not know as we are human, and the magic that protects these lands also protects us. We know what she is though she has no idea that we are the original guardians of the land. Henri said, with a coy smile.

I see, and your name is?

I am Henri, my son is the stable boy and he will eventually take my place, but he knows nothing.

Your woman, what does she know?

She is the head housekeeper, and is knowledgeable in Lord Vladimir’s directives. We are to protect the land, guard his descendants, and to serve them as we would him. All of us would die to defend you and Masters Ivan and Nikolai. It is wonderful to know the Master Alexei sired sons to take their rightful place in Vladimir’s lands. Now it is your turn Master Viktor.

Viktor smiled slightly. You think to marry me off and have my sons borne soon, do you?

There is no rush Master Viktor, but soon Ivan and Nikolai will take their places and the houses and lands will be empty once again; I know my wife would wish to hear small children running through the halls again.

You are a loyal member of Vladimir’s line, perhaps after I have children you and yours will be gifted with immortality, if you wish.

We would be honored, but we are still needed for protecting Masters Nikolai and Ivan.

Yes I know. But for now leave us, I wish to speak with my brother’s son.

Yes Master Viktor, as you wish.

Henri?

Sire?

My name is Viktor, not Master Viktor, understand? With a nod Henri left the room.

I had no idea that you were my father’s brother. When Henri spoke of him being considered lost I was shocked. Ivan said.

What did happen to Alexei and does he still live? Viktor asked, hope tinging his voice.

Yes he still lives, he was involved in a skirmish and was injured, and he met our mother. She was allowing him to heal in her home after her first husband was killed during the skirmish that injured father.

If he lives where is he?

He and mother are traveling this way to be with Nikolai. I sent them a message through a special link we have.

"A special link, like mind to mind?

Ivan didn’t answer immediately, hesitant to tell anyone about anything so private, he had accused Viktor of being in league with Satan. After a moment he decided that he had nothing to lose, Viktor was after all his father’s brother; his uncle.

Yes, we all share a path in our minds, a common link, if you will. Ivan said.

I wish to have a link to my brother, if he appears perhaps he and I can catch up; before he leaves again. I have missed him. Viktor said as he moved to sit in the chair across from Ivan.

I have missed you too Viktor. Alexei stated from the doorway leading to the verandah.

Father! Ivan said, tears stinging his eyes. It had been many months since his father had sent him and Nicolai to this region.

Alexei! Viktor said, staring at his older brother, fighting back his own tears for the brother he thought lost. You look well. He said as he wrapped Alexei in a tight hug.

Oh Alexei, look at my son. Ivan how did this happen? The woman asked, worry and distress evident on her beautiful face.

A woman, Nikolai attempted to save her and was injured, if he wasn’t part vamp…vampire he may have died. Why did you never tell us? Ivan asked incredulously.

You were supposed to gain the respect of your people here first. It was part of the curse passed on by the steward. You must earn it. It was what caused the steward to curse your grandsire in the first place, or so it is said. Alexei replied.

Viktor stared at Alexei, debating whether or not to take him to task for his absence all these years.

Brother, where have you been, you have been missed. You could have found a way to inform me or grandfather of your situation.

Before he could respond a knock sounded on the door. Exasperated by the interruption Ivan answered a little tartly, Come.

Master Ivan, I am sorry to interrupt but there is a situation. A young man is here claiming that you are needed on your lands. Ruffians broke in and tried to make off with a couple of your house maids. Andre the stable boy said, a little nervously.

Ivan and Viktor made their way to the foyer, Ivan stopped short of entering.

Ivan, what is it? Viktor asked concerned that Ivan stopped so quickly.

I do not that boy, he is not a member of my house; I know them all.

I will deal with him. Stay hidden until I call to you.

With that Viktor appeared right behind the boy, and sank his teeth into his neck. Ivan was shocked but did nothing to stop it.

The boy stared Viktor in the eye; nodded, turned and left.

What did he say? Ivan asked.

Annaya paid him to come here, but she spelled him to lie about the break in. I told him to go back and tell her that you were not responding, you are needed here with Nikolai. If she looks into his mind as I have done, she will see you telling him that you will not leave at this time and that the servants are to handle the problem accordingly. Come, we must return to Nikolai and your parents.

As they returned to the room where Nikolai lay they heard Alexei say… "Lana, he will be fine, I am sure