Return of the Prehistoric Vampire: The Saga of a World Called Htrae

Prologue

The sound of footsteps in the hall alerted all three of us. Soleick was across the room and at the door in an instant. He turned to us and put his finger to his lips. No one knocked, and whoever stopped did not move. He reached down wrapping his hand around the door handle.

I stopped breathing. If it was Learden he would have transported into the room. Why would someone stop outside my door and stay silent. I decided I was being too cautious.

Maybe it is one of my bodyguards watching the door, I whispered.

Raithe moved slowly as she stood; then she ghosted to the door. She was a hybrid now and had learned new skills quickly. She took hold of the other door as she and Soleick nodded to each other, then they both yanked the doors open.

A monster stood in the doorway. Soleick was almost seven feet tall but it towered over him. He growled and grabbed Soleick and Raithe by the front of their shirts and threw them into the wall across the hall.

When they opened the doors I ghosted to the other side of the couch. I stood transfixed, unable to move. No one else was in the hall; meaning he took out the other two Queen’s Guard protecting me.

Soleick lay still, slumped against the wall but Raithe was moving. She ghosted to the alien sending a round kick into his back. He felt nothing, just turned, grabbed her by the neck, and pulled her toward him. I watched as he opened his mouth and bit into her shoulder; she screamed.

My heart stopped, I ran to his side, No! Stop! I yelled. You came for me, let her go! I pleaded. My mind flashed back to another time when Learden drained my friend Ellie in front of me. She was the doctor of the Human colony who gave us refuge after King Kasan tried to have me killed. Stop this, right now! I growled

.

His head came up slowly, and then he pushed Raithe away from him. I watched as she flopped to the floor; watched to see if her chest would fill with air again. Finally I saw a faint movement; she was alive.

When I returned my attention to the monster that almost drained her of life he was standing in front of me. There was nothing human about him, but I knew it was Learden. Fear could not describe what I felt at that moment. I could not breathe and the tension in my body prevented me from moving.

Learden, please do not do this. I whispered. My feet began to move backward but before I could take another step back he was in front of me his massive arm sliding around my waist jerking me into him. I cried out when he pushed into my swollen belly.

I could not bear to look at him. The smell of blood and rotting flesh was unbearable. My hands automatically went to his chest, pushing him away. It was like trying to push a brick wall. When I turned my head away his other hand came up and pulled my face back to his. Right about then the baby decided to start kicking, as if he was trying to help me. I started hyperventilating and whimpering; tears streaking down my cheeks and chin.

Please, Learden let me go. I wined. Suddenly I found myself falling backwards. I managed to stop myself from falling but I could not believe he had let go of me.

He stood there watching me, suddenly focusing on my belly. Oh gods, he is realizing I am pregnant, I thought. Mother Goddess, please protect my child, I prayed. I knew I was shaking but I could not stop myself. I was in fear’s grasp; fear for my life and the life of my child.

He moved toward me again and I backed into a chair; I could go no farther. He kept coming but instead of grabbing me again he laid his hand on my belly. His eyes began to change, his face softened, if that was possible. He cocked his head to the side as he stared at the bulge and then he looked me in the eye, Mine? He asked in a guttural voice.

I nodded. When I looked back up his eyes were brown.

My eyes moved back and forth between his. I could not believe what I was seeing, Learden? I wanted him to tell me he was the Learden I loved and not the monster the aliens had made of him.

I moved away from him and his hand slid off my belly. I searched his face and still, he did not move. When our eyes met I saw pain in his. The aliens compelled him to kill me and I could see the war that waged within him. I hoped the Hybrid, Learden, was still there; fighting to get out.

I reached up and put my hand on his cheek, I love you, Learden, please come back to me. My voice husky with the threat of tears, I need you, my love, I know you can fight this. Please let me help you. I was afraid to call for help, knowing he would take me as soon as he realized they were coming after him. Not to mention, the damage he alone could do to several of them. I didn’t want anyone else to die.

I glanced at Soleick’s unmoving form across the hall, a tear falling from my eye. He followed my glance.

Without warning a low growl emanated from his throat, eventually turning into words. I told you I would come for you, he cannot have you! He shook his head; his eyes changing back to blood red. I must take you back with me, he growled louder. I realized the moment was over and the monster was in control again.

Chapter One

Blue eyes held mine as my heart ramped up a notch. At almost seven feet, Soleick towered over my five feet one and his smile could melt my heart to the core. How does he do this to me? I wondered. His long white hair, braided at the sides and tied with a leather cord at the back gave him an appealing look. Even though mine and Learden’s bond no longer existed; in my heart he was still my mate. Soleick was Elf kind and continued pursuing me since he delivered me safely to the Witch Council and my Queen’s Guard. At times I thought he was in awe of me; then other times his lust came through when he looked at me with half lidded eyes.

We were good friends but I knew he loved me when he allowed passion to emerge. Even though I fought the feelings I had for him; my feelings were hard to deny. I Knew I was falling for him; when we were alone it was all I could do to keep my hands to myself.

It was past twilight and with the encroaching deep shadows the cold autumn night swirled around our feet as we moved up the familiar path. A cold shiver ran up my back leaving me with an ominous feeling. Our usually fast paced evening walk slowed to a crawl because of Soleick’s distracted glances around us, and as our discussion progressed to uncomfortable topics. Cedair, my constant companion, friend and bodyguard, had left on a Special Forces mission. She was with Naken, who was like a brother to me, and Lakin who was a part of my pack. So Soleick and I walked unguarded up to my favorite overlook.

Soleick was my bodyguard but he was uncomfortable being the only one and spent more time discussing my safety than I wanted. I broke eye contact and scanned the forest around us. The trail cut into the side of the hill; I was always on the lookout these days for danger lurking around the next corner. Our conversation returned to his wish to become my consort. He knew I was uncomfortable with the need for so many mating partners and I knew he realized I cared for him more than I was letting on.

I felt a chill run up my spine as I turned my back on him. The forest, filled with dark shadows and windy gusts, triggered my thoughts to see danger with every shadow and gust of wind. Leaden could be those shadows; putting me on edge with every sound, moving leaf or bush.

I know you have considered it, Laurel, I have felt your need and I know you can feel mine. He said softly; pulling me away from my dark thoughts. I had trouble thinking when he used that soft sexy voice on me. It was bad enough that his handsome face and strong jaw framed by long silky white hair disrupted my ability to think clearly. Tonight he wore his usual pale blue tunic and pants; his sword and scabbard around his waist worn by the Elf as their uniform.

I am sorry Soleick; I am distracted tonight and have much on my mind. I felt my face flush at his suggestion. My mind was reeling from the Intel I received about Learden’s whereabouts. They tracked him into the mountains across from Fey Island; which was our new base camp. Witch Island; named Fey Island to confuse Kasan when he was king. He was too close to finding out which island hid the witches High Council, putting their safety in danger. Now, Learden was looking for me, and since the alien Vampire had preprogrammed him to kill me when he was just a youngling, we needed to find him before he found me. You might say my fear of him was starting to outweigh my love . . . slightly.

Soleick’s gentle hands caressed my shoulders, pulling me against his muscular chest. You must decide soon, Laurel. Your time is coming fast and the child needs protection from those who fear his father. His soothing deep voice was convincing and his smell of musk and vanilla was intoxicating. Reaching for his hand, I raised my face to his; reminding myself to breathe, which was hard since I had started wearing dresses to hide my pregnancy. I could feel the material pulling against the growing bulge of my belly.

I know, Soleick, but we have talked about this. You know what it would mean. I cannot ask you to put yourself in danger. I watched his eyes, waiting to see the fear I knew he had to feel; but there was none. The worst part; I knew he was right and my gods I had feelings for this Elf commander. He had become my constant companion since he and his army led me safely here and he would make a good consort, but that was not the problem.

Pulling me to him; surrounding me in warm protective arms, I felt myself melt into his chest, You know how much I care for you and your unborn child. My heart is full of love for you, Laurel, even though I know your heart is with another.

Placing my hands on his chest I pushed away; tears stinging the back of my eyes. Even though I would take Learden back if he returned to me? I asked with a sob. I knew he would eventually return to me as the hybrid I knew and loved. Even though I knew the Vampire aliens forced him to drink their blood turning him into one of them, I refused to give up hope. If the aliens realize drinking their blood could turn us into monsters like them; we might lose this war. Learden told me he became like them when he fed from an alien he killed. It chilled me to the bone to think of him as a monster at eight feet with green scales, black claws and blood red eyes; a prehistoric Vampire from the beginning of this planet’s history.

A slow smile graced Soleick’s face, but I could see the sorrow in his eyes, Yes, Laurel, I give you my word I would step aside without challenge and release you into Learden’s care. I know you do not wish to take any of your bodyguards as your consort. I have seen the reluctance on your face and in your body every time you have to mate with one of them. You know what I speak of and I know how you feel about me. I am willing to have you turn me which would ensure our mating would nourish you. His eyes never left mine.

Tears fell from my lashes as I took my eyes from his, this was my real fear. I did not want my friend to change into a monster like Ewlock. It will change you Soleick, more than you know. Being an Elf, Vampire Hybrid could change the way you think and feel. Do you think Ewlock would have murdered his father if he was pureblood Elf kind? Frustration took over my voice and I felt a hard kick within.

I faltered, Oh, I rasped out, my hand flying to my distended belly, that wasn’t necessary. I think my little one is upset with me. Hiding my pregnancy was no longer possible since the Werewolf and Witch genes had caused the child to grow faster than normal. When Werewolf and Witch mate their offspring grow quickly in the womb and become an adult in ten years. Even though I was only five months into the pregnancy I looked like I was seven or eight months along. Since Learden and I both had Werewolf and Witch genes our mating caused the fast growth.

Dioresa told me I could be full term at seven months, which meant I did not have long before I would meet my new youngling. Dioresa was the Elf Doctor and a part of the Elf Council, who had told me I was ‘with egg’ before Learden and I came together and fertilized the egg. Both parents must make the decision to conceive a child before the egg is released into the womb. Then the egg attaches itself to the wall of the uterus until fertilization takes place. When I became pregnant Dioresa insisted on staying with me until the baby arrived. I called her my ‘mother hen’ because she was always hovering over me.

Soleick’s brows came together in distress, Laurel, you have been on your feet too long, you must rest – he took my arm, steering me toward a flat rock – I am sorry, I have upset you. I did not wish to cause you distress.

The cold rock startled me, even through the thickness of my dress, but I welcomed the chance to sit. With summer over the nights were growing cold. Normally the cold never bothered me but the pregnancy made me vulnerable. It was partly cloudy but otherwise clear; the stars sparkled in the dark blue sky and the moons were waxing into full in a few days.

We looked down on the valley of lights where Witch Town sprawled below the mountain. We had taken refuge on Fey Island beside West Continent and set up our main base after I left Learden at Alleruik’s villa. He was a Noble Vampire with a questionable reputation but he had given Learden his protection when he learned the aliens were looking for him.

The Alien Vampires had taken over most of the Continent and we were slowly bringing the scattered Queen’s Guard back together, gathering our magick and making plans to rid ourselves of these new invaders. They were prehistoric vampires, who lived on Htrae thousands of years before the first humanoid Vampire arrived on the scene; born to a human female, creating a new race of Vampire. Eventually the witches realized that magick was the key to getting rid of the old Vampire and they forced them through a portal to an uninhabited world then surrounded it with a protection spell. The Vampire needed the aliens from Hoth to create the portals to bring them back. They are vulnerable to magic and we planned to get rid of them again with magick. But at the rate they were populating our world it was hard to find their bases and they had started to populate our cities.

Breathing deeply to calm myself; I welcomed the cold air as it rushed into my lungs. I could feel the darkness gathering around me as clouds drifted in front of the moons. I shivered, feeling the need to wrap my arms around my body. I had to think about what I wanted to say, gathering courage to say how I felt.

Soleick, I am not upset, I am worried about the life you are willing to give up, just to be with me. I worry that you will change and the way your kind will react to you.

Warm hands held mine as he knelt next to me. Do not worry that I will become like Ewlock. He came into this world a Hybrid, always a problem child. He is not evil because he is a hybrid. His vanity and hunger for power is in his nature; he cares nothing for his kind. Did your ideals and values change when you became a Hybrid?

I did not answer; quiet surrounded me. The stars are beautiful tonight. I said changing the subject. I knew he was right but I still felt like it would be selfish of me to ask him to be my Hybrid consort and change his life as he knew it forever.

His hand was warm as he lifted my chin to meet his smiling eyes, Now you are just avoiding the question. His lips brushed mine ever so softly.

I took his hand from my chin, holding it in mine, No, my body changed and my need for blood was new, but I am the same person. I sighed, I understand what you are trying to say, but you will be different from your kind and the need for blood to survive is not easy to manage. Look how the Elves feared Ewlock after they found out he was half Vampire. I could see, by the look on his face, that I was losing this argument. Fear was holding me back; and my need for Learden. I was afraid I would hurt this beautiful Elf because I could not love him as passionately as I loved Learden.

Holding my cold hands in his he gave me an indulgent smile. You must decide Laurel, your life and the life of your child depend on it. He kissed the pulse point on my wrist, raising his deep blue eyes to mine, I will stand by your side and nourish you, and love you and your child as I would my own. As a Hybrid I could protect you more . . . and flash up trees with you. Please Laurel, take me as your consort and king.

My hand few to my mouth to stifle a startled half laugh. He referred to my habit of flashing up trees when we were scouting for the enemy. The first time he saw me do it I scared him when I disappeared. He followed me up the tree but we needed to get down fast to avoid an enemy ship seeing us; so I transported both of us to the ground.

I sighed, You would be my consort Soleick, but not my king. King Kasan was king to Htrae until he became a tyrant and I took over his kingdom. I am the uncrowned queen of Htrae.

He smiled, I am already a king, Laurel, of the Elf Nation; in Ewlock’s stead. He is guilty of murdering his father, King Nisco. He is no longer a part of our nation; the council forcibly removed him.

When my female bodyguards and I happened on the Elves’ cave entrance, and after a series of mishaps and misunderstandings, King Nisco became my friend. Ewlock murdered his father when he refused to allow him to challenge Learden for the privilege of being my consort. Unfortunately, he became obsessed with me and thought becoming my consort would raise his status in life.

I smiled, When did this happen?

I found out just before we left on our walk. My duties will allow me to keep watch over the Elf Nation whether I am Elf or Hybrid. His blue eyes were relentless, holding mine as he made his case.

I shook my head, I cannot talk you out of this?

No, he said softly, shaking his head. He leaned in and kissed me gently on the lips. I will never leave you, Laurel, I promise you that. You are the mate I have waited for my entire life. You are smart, funny, intelligent, fearless and beautiful; inside and out. I could see this in you the first time I saw you.

I began to blush over my entire body, I could feel the heat. Okay, you need to stop talking or I may combust. My smile must have said everything because his eyes grew big in astonishment.

Are you saying yes? Will you talk to the council? I know you must have their approval. He said in a rush.

Yes, I will . . . Suddenly the hackles on the back of my neck raised; I felt movement behind me. My heart seized then sped up, No, I whispered.

The copper smell of blood assaulted my nostrils then I watched Soleick’s eyes dart behind me. He stood; the sound of his sword as he pulled it from the scabbard broke the quiet of the night. Unfortunately he was too late. Seizing my long hair as he jerked my head back the assailant pulled me into his body. I froze. But not before I broadcast one word telepathically; alien!

Chapter Two

The air changed around us, the slight breeze raised dust at our feet, static charged with magick and electricity swirled around Soleick; just before eight bodyguards appeared behind him. Kianas, Dena, Kim, Sara, Raithe, Kolis, Akie, and Enule already had swords raised in a fighting stance. Within seconds about twenty more Queen’s Guard appeared.

Still frozen in place and barely breathing, my hand flew to my belly as fear held me like a vice; fear for my child. It was him; the tension as he gripped my hair was obvious. The rancid smell of his blood drenched breath against my neck almost gagged me; I could smell death on him. My memories showed me images of the one I loved, but I knew this one was a monster.

Learden, I breathed, not feeling the strength I prayed for, please let me go or you will die here today, you are one against many. I could barely hear myself.

A low growl launched behind me, as his grip tightened. Drop your swords or I will drain her before you can use them. His growl changed into words but his accent was thick and his voice guttural as he spoke around rows of lethal teeth like the alien Vampire.

You will die first Vampire, Growled Kianas and Soleick, in unison. The tension in their bodies was intense. Knees bent and swords raised as a growl began low in their throats. Kianas is Noble Vampire; my second in command in Learden’s stead and the vampire who originally brought me to this planet. His long blond hair, youthful good looks and muscular build got many a look from females but his eyes were usually on me in the past. Tonight he wore the black and red leather uniform of the Guard as did all my bodyguards.

You are alone and you cannot kill all of us. Soleick said in a dangerous voice. Fear for me radiated off his body but his eyes were fierce as he leaned forward.

My head jerked back as Learden cupped a green scale covered hand under my chin; the smell of death almost overwhelming, Come with me, Laurel, and no one has to die here. He said close to my ear so only I could hear. I cringed when he caressed my cheek with his; scales raked across my face.

No, I will not go with you, Learden; I cannot put my Guard in danger. They will come after me. Let me go! I said forcefully as tears gathered in my eyes

.

Soleick began to move slowly toward him. No! I cautioned him telepathically. Panic raced through me, fearing he would die at the hands of this monster who was Learden. I did what I had to out of fear for both of them; closing my eyes, I transported behind the group.

Everything happened so fast that I barely saw Learden jump to the rock above us. He stood for a moment as a roar that made us cover our ears erupted from him. I blanched as I looked on the monster he had become. He was huge, at least seven and a half feet tall, with blood red eyes, green scales for skin and long black claws; dressed in all black and dark metal. His hair was longer and matted; his face twisted in a snarl. Before anyone could react, he vanished. Several of the Guard started to go after him.

No! I shouted, let him go; he is faster and dangerous. You have no idea if others wait for him. I touched my face where Learden’s hand touched me. Forcing the tears back, I shook my head and drew in a shaky breath.

Soleick ran to me, Laurel, are you hurt? Running his hands over my arms and shoulders to make sure I was alright, and then he embraced me. I flushed with embarrassment but he was oblivious to the shocked looks of the others when he kissed me on the forehead and said, Thank the gods you escaped unharmed.

I went still in his arms, Umm, Soleick I am fine. I reached up to rub the back of my head, I think he pulled a few hairs out of my head but I am alive and well. I said pulling away. "If he was going to kill me he could have done it. But he did not; and from the volume of his growl, I think his raging anger tells me he will try again.

My friends, protectors and many of my Guard stared back at me; then everyone started talking.

Laurel, are you alright? Asked Dena. Dena is Werewolf, my war secretary, and good friend.

What did he want? Sara asked. Sara is Vampire, my son Peter’s mate and also my friend.

My gods he could have killed you! Said Enule. Enule is Hybrid and a commander in my Guard.

Where did he come from? Raithe’s sister Kim asked. Kim; kidnapped from earth by Kianas, had to turn or she would have died. She is Vampire and soon to be Kianas’ mate.

Laurel, you need to be closer to your Guard. Kianas said irritated. His temper was short with me lately; he took his promise to Learden to keep me safe seriously.

Was that Learden? Asked Kolis. Kolis is Hybrid and Commander of the Hybrid army.

It did not look like him, but it was, right? Said Akie. Akie is from the Elf Nation and Commander of the Elf army.

Is the baby okay? Raithe finally asked in a tiny voice. Raithe is my best friend from earth; she came to Htrae when I did. She is a seed from Htrae; a twin sent to earth soon after birth and recalled on her fortieth birthday. She was human but I recently turned her and she has become a fierce Hybrid warrior and a part of my Guard.

I smiled at her. Yes the baby is fine, and in answer to your questions; yes, I do not know; yes he could have. I have no idea where he came from. Maybe, yes, and no he does not look like he used to. Scared and vulnerable, the calm in my voice surprised me as I stared into the shadows where he vanished.

Kianas stepped in front of me, Laurel, we need to get you down from here and safely back to your rooms. If he comes back he knows where to find you. You are in danger; we are moving you to another island. The drawn look on Kianas’ face held fear and guilt because he left me alone with Soleick as my only bodyguard.

You are right Kianas, I need to go back to my rooms, I am exhausted; but we will discuss moving me later. Right now I need to rest and you need to secure our camp. If he is not alone the Queen’s Guard need to know what just happened, and what it means. Not waiting for him to answer I transported to the building where my rooms were; after I took Soleick’s hand. My heart was about to fly out of my chest; I needed to get away from the questions. I was terrified Learden would harm our child; he was all I had left of him.

Disoriented Soleick glanced around, I wish you would warn me when you do that. He whispered.

The temperature dropped and it started raining, but I waited for the others. Meanwhile, I pulled Soleick down to me, Soleick, I need you to be a little less affectionate around our friends until they know what is going on between us. Our lips so close together were too tempting; I kissed him, but thank you for being so protective of me. Fear or not, I could not help the smile that crept onto my face.

His arms enfolded me, Then maybe we should tell them; now that you have decided. He said. Before I could respond Raithe and Kolis appeared behind us. I moved a little too quickly out of his arms, guilt sending heat to my cheeks.

We stood on the rock path in front of the huge Tudor building while the rest filled the grassy field spreading out in front of the dense forest that wrapped around the entire island.

Running up to me, Raithe threw her arms around me, Laurel, I am so sorry you had to see him like that. Her eyes glistened.

Raithe knew me better than anyone. On earth she was my sometimes assistant when I had my hypnotherapy practice. Before we came to Htrae we went through a lot together. I knew it would happen eventually, I murmured, looking away from her as more Guard and bodyguards arrived.

A few at a time returned. Some transporting and running. Kianas, angry because I disappeared, growled at me while some laughed and murmured to one another.

Kianas grabbed my arm, giving Soleick a dirty look, Laurel, I am serious; we need to get you out of here! He knows where you are and he has orders to kill you. Do you think he just wanted to talk? Please we must protect you, especially now. He said angrily looking down at my belly. Kianas was the Vampire who brought me to Htrae but he betrayed me to the king and lost me to Learden. When he left, Learden, charged him with my safety knowing Kianas would keep me safe at risk of his own life. We were once lovers and he had since moved on but he still loved me.

Soleick scowled back at him as he turned to me, He is right, Laurel, you are not safe here and you need more protection. He may bring aliens back with him and we are not ready to fight these alien Vampire. He took hold of my other arm.

Indignant, I pulled away from them. Looking at the faces of my bodyguards and Queen’s Guard I said, You are all forgetting something. Everyone froze and stopped talking.

What are we forgetting? Kianas said anger still hot on his face.

Magick surrounds and protects this island. I paused to let that sink in. Learden passed through our barriers. Everyone stared at me, shock on their faces.

That is because, Learden, knows magick. Everyone’s head turned to the soft sound of Mother’s voice. Mother is the oldest Witch on Htrae, my teacher and confidant.

We must assume the worst, she said as her voice rose; that he has shown the aliens how to overcome our magick. And that means we must work diligently to create a stronger barrier; we need our queen to stay here and help the council. She is strongest among us, she said looking directly at me.

Unaware Mother felt that way about me I stood shocked. I knew how strong she was and I knew the fear in my gut would weaken me unless I found a way to keep Learden from getting through our barriers. I needed to keep my daoine safe from the monsters who had invaded our planet and they needed to know I could do just that.

The wind picked up; bringing the smell of rain as I spoke, Mother is right. Kianas I need you to address the Guard and make them aware of the danger that is coming. Kolis, I need you to gather the strongest of the Hybrid who can transport. Mother and I will go to the High Council and begin work on the magick barriers. I felt their silent tension, Now! Go! Startled for a moment the group stood still; then they suddenly disappeared.

Soleick remained by my side. His hand sliding around my waist he slowly turned me toward him. Our eyes met and a smile slid across his face. Smiling back, my hands went to his shoulders, feeling the strength beneath. Why are you smiling? You have a job as well.

Pulling me closer he raised my chin with two fingers as his lips came down on mine. It was a slow kiss, sensual and deep. Passion rose in my breast, taking my breath away and I kissed him back, moving my hands up his shoulders and under his long hair pulling him closer. Forgetting Mother still stood on the steppes of the large Tudor building; we let the kiss last longer than we should have but I had to admit I wanted and needed that kiss. I wanted it for longer than I admit. It was on the verge so many times and I knew he wanted me.

When we finally parted; his smile was even broader, And what are my queen’s wishes? He said softly.

My mouth opened slightly; I faltered for a moment. My brain was still thinking about the kiss and distracted by the strand of white hair falling over one eyebrow. Um, I need . . . you . . . to place your soldiers on guard as extra protection around the camp. I finally got out. Where did that come from? I murmured.

Rising to his full height, his shoulders back, he answered, Because, my queen, I realized how much responsibility you have taken on your shoulders because of these aliens and I needed you to know that I stand beside you in that responsibility. His large hand cupped my face; his thumb sliding across my cheek. I just proposed to you before Learden attacked; and you accepted me as your consort. We had not yet had our first kiss, he whispered as his sky blue eyes stared softly into mine. Then bowing, with a sweep of his hand, I go now to do your bidding, my queen. He said as he smirked. Then he left for the encampment.

Staring after him with a silly grin on my face, I whispered, That was an outstanding first kiss, Soleick, King of the Elf Nation. Shaking my head I turned to see Mother standing quietly on the steps of the huge Tudor building. Even as the oldest being on the planet she was beautiful in a flowing soft blue, long strait dress, belted in pale yellow. The soft light coming from the door behind her made a halo around her face; and her long dark hair hanging past her waist gave her a youthful appearance. Oh, Mother, I forgot you were there. I am sorry I . . . do not know what to say. I stuttered. Thank gods it was dark; she could not see the heat in my cheeks. I slowly walked up the stairs as I talked.

There is nothing to say, Laurel, I have been watching the two of you for some time now and I wondered why it was taking you so long to choose him as your consort. She said as I walked toward her. Is he willing to become Hybrid?

I searched her face for disapproval, but saw none, Yes he is. You approve of Soleick? I asked surprised. It surprised me, Mother, was aware of our affection and her acceptance of our pairing; especially turning him.

Why would I not child? He is perfect for you and he will be a strong consort; especially since he is now the Elf King. She said quietly.

My eyes grew big, How did you know? He just found out today. I was beginning to wonder if Mother was keeping track of everyone by using her Oracle Bowl.

Come, she said as her arm slipped around my waist, we have work to do and we must gather the council. Alela arrives tomorrow. She said as she ushered me into the building.

The large entry, filled with polished wood in hues of warm reds and golds created an ambiance of safety. The pattern of the Wiccan five pointed star within a circle made a dramatic statement; centered on the floor. The symbol of our Mother Goddess filled the center of the circle. The rays of the sun burst out of the circle in all directions reaching each corner in a rich golden wood.

Upstairs the apartments for each of the council members and the guest rooms for visitors were visible from below. This was the first time in the history of Htrae all the species were invited to visit Fey Island.

That is good news, I said with a smile. It will be good to see her, I miss our talks. Will she be bringing the children? Alela is Witch Queen; and one of my best friends. We have been through much together. Her duties did not allow her to stay with the Queen’s Guard, since she was responsible for training the children of the Witch clans. She was instrumental in my training when I became leader of Htrae’s army. It was she who introduced me to the Fairy Queen and taught me how to see the fairies.

Mother’s shoulders tightened, Yes, many choose to take part in the Sabbat. However, many fear the aliens, and have chosen to stay safely behind. I for one will be glad when this danger is past and I am not looking forward to this battle. She grumbled as we reached the chamber doors on the first floor. Other meeting rooms, the kitchens and dining area were on the first floor as well. The Tudor building was massive with a third floor containing large apartments; kept for VIPs who visited for long periods of time. One of those rooms was mine.

We found the chamber empty. Long bench tables made of, what looked like, mahogany sat around the room with a large oval table in the center. Our shoes tapped lightly over the beautifully tiled floors of mosaic pictures of animals and hunters, children and young women. The walls were of a lighter wood with cabinets and counters filled with bottles, pestles and pots; all colorful and brimming with herbs and potions. One side of the room housed many spell books with information about Htrae. Bookcases lined the entire wall reaching to the ceiling, filled with books on history and prophesy with a great sliding stairway curving up to the top of the cases. There was a smaller kitchen off the council chamber; used by the witches to create magick potions. The kitchen; the only room with windows, had wooden shutters for safety.

Mother called the Witch Council to the council chambers with her thoughts; and within minutes they began to file in and take their places around the huge table in the center of the room. Once they had all arrived we explained what had happened.

Murmurs broke out immediately, becoming louder in moments. Many feared what the aliens might do, but we assured them we could protect ourselves.

Leaning forward on the table I shared my plan, First we must put a binding spell on Learden. We must not allow him to counter our spells or teach the aliens how to get past them and we will need to call on the Dark Goddess to help us.

Mother’s eyes grew excited, Laurel, in three days we celebrate ‘Mabon.’ It is the full moon of the ‘Autumn Equinox;’ the perfect time to strengthen our spiritual magick. This is when the dark and light are equal and when we give thanks to the waning daylight. The festival celebrates the God of the Forest, the Goddess as she passes from Mother to Crone, and her consort the God, as he prepares for death and rebirth. What better way to prepare for their attack; which I am sure, they are planning?

Her excitement was infectious as it sprouted inside me; finally I was going to witness a Sabbat. That is the best news I have heard since the war began! With the entire Queen’s Guard at the festival the magick would be even more powerful. I was hoping we would finally get ahead of the aliens. And maybe I would be closer to getting Learden and the planet back.

"It would be powerful, my queen. Powerful enough to protect this island and the mountains where the Queen’s Guard are hiding. We must begin our preparation right away." Heads bobbed and murmurs erupted all around the room again; but this time they were hopeful.

Could it be this easy? I thought. I knew I should not get my hopes up, but I wanted a life without death and pain; a life with Learden and our child. Guilt tore at my stomach as I thought of Soleick and the promises I made to him on this night.

The murmur of voices as the council discussed the Sabbat ritual and the binding spell they would cast against Learden grew louder. The council members were Witch elders except for three young females. Mother was at the head, Gladria, Willum, Selindra, Lorin, Grisum, Norella, Alinda, Krans, and Cornag were the elders. The three young witches were Aracina, Adalina, and Charise; a coven of thirteen. In the four months I had been on Fey Island I had gotten to know them well. The ever-present Dioresa was there to keep watch over me and the baby. It was unusual for the council to allow another species at council meetings but they understood her need to watch over me.

The more I thought about what we were about to do to Learden the more uneasy I felt. I needed to protect the island and get Learden back but either one could endanger the other. Mother, will the spell hurt Learden? I mean I know we need to keep him away from me but I do not want to hurt him. My stomach was in knots after my encounter with him but my love for Learden told me what we were doing may put him in danger. Suddenly I felt the baby kick so hard it doubled me over.

Laurel! Mother, Gladria and Dioresa ran to me, easing me down into a chair. You must go to your rooms, my child; you do not need to worry about Learden. I promise you, we will not harm him; we only want to prevent him from using magick. We will bind him to his Vampire nature, said Mother.

What do you mean his Vampire nature? You mean the prehistoric Vampire? My voice rose in distress.

Yes, it is the only way. The other part of him is Witch. If we do not bind him from that part of his lineage he will be able to use his magick to get past our barriers. She whispered.

Mother and Dioresa knelt before me, Laurel, he will kill you and the child if he finds you again. Dioresa brushed away the hair that had fallen in my face, a pleading look on her face. We have to keep you safe, my queen.

I could feel the tears welling in my eyes, But that will keep him from finding his true self; it will take him farther from me. Tears rolled down my face, falling on my hands that lay listlessly in my lap. I felt defeated, my hope lost. If he dies with the aliens, how will I go on without him? My voice was barely a whisper. I felt lost just imagining him gone from me.

We will find a way to protect him, Laurel. Mother’s voice penetrated my fearful thoughts. She took my hand and helped me out of the chair, Come, and let us take you to your rooms. You have had a stressful day and you and the child need to rest.

I resisted, But, I need to help you . . .

You can help us after you have had a good night’s rest. You need to mate, Laurel, you are pale. When was the last time you mated? Mother whispered.

It has been a few days. I admitted. The thought of mating made me cringe; I was avoiding it.

Who should I send to you? She asked as she pulled me from the room. I heard murmuring in the background but the words faded from my mind. I did not want to mate with my usual donors; I had no wish to go from one donor to another.

No one . . . I do not wish to mate tonight Mother. I said in a rushed whisper.

She put her arm around me, Oh Laurel, I know this is hard on you but you must have nourishment; for the younglings sake. Mating is the best way.

No! If you must send someone then send Soleick. I was inconsolable, I needed a friend. I trusted Soleick to not judge me about my refusal to mate. Vampires and Hybrids fed while mating; unmated vampires or Hybrids mate an unmated Vampire or Hybrid. Without Learden or a consort I had to mate with a different male bodyguard each time. At the moment the only bodyguards available were Kianas, Kolis and Enule. It was Kianas’ turn and I was not ready for Kianas tonight. If I mated with the same male more than twice the bond would begin. I could not bond with just anyone. Laurel, he cannot nourish you unless you turn him and that will take days. You have not discussed making him your consort, with the council yet, She cautioned.

"Please Mother, I need