The Journey: eyes of a Vampire

The air stood cold, still and thick with anticipation, as a single young man leaned against a  cold stone building, smoking a cigarette. Looking around the corner of the building down an alley, the young man saw a shadow of a person just standing there glaring at him. Putting out his cigarette, he headed down the alley. His heart beating a bit faster as he drew closer to the dark figure in front of him; cold sweat began to pour down his face.
The stranger reached out his hand holding a box out, "Use it well..." was all he said as he put the box in the young mans hands and then turned and vanished down the alley to blend in with the shadows.
Charley looked down at the box in his hand, his heart beat even faster then before. His breath broken, as he opened the lid with fear and trembling hands. He didn't want to use it, having second thoughts about his pact with the devil. However it was not for his sake, he was doing this for the one he loved, the one dieing in a hospital bed.
Opening the lid completely, Charley took out a black vile. There was no label, there was no indication of the contents, however, Charley knew exactly what to do with it. Removing the lid slowly, this young man closed his eyes and cried. "forgive me."
Taking the bottle to his lips, he drank the entire contents with a sour expression on his face. as the liquid traveled into his system, he cried even louder with remorse for what he had done. The sacrifice he was doing to save his brother, his friend, his love. He knew he had to, but at a price he knew he would pay with his very soul.
Pain...
His heart raced faster, his breathing labored...
Fear...
His mind wondered, looking to see if anyone was witness to his ultimate betrayal.
Death...
Silence...

Chapter 1

On the coast of england, in the small port of Southampton, one of history's greatest legends sits proudly along with her fellow ships, ready for her maiden voyage. The paint had just barely had time to dry as the passengers boarded, to set out on their own personal journeys. For some, it is a dream come true to go to a new world for the first time, for some, a return to the land they were born and love, and others it was just a boat ride. However, for a certain young man, this was no ordinary boat ride, it is his Journey out of the darkness of his past, and into the light of a new life.
Charley stood on the peer, looking at the great ship with wonder and fear. His has been a sheltered world, a world where you had to work to eat, or go hungry. His was a life of simplicity, yet the desire for something better, something more then what he had, pulled at his spirit. As he began his way up the plank toward the ship, he scratched his head and suddenly people began to back away from him.
"Oy, if you have lice then off with you." an old woman said looking at him.
"I promise, I don't have anything ma'am, just the cloths on me back, and me soul to carry me to America." He replied with a smile.
The others nodded and gathered back together to wait to get boarded. as he reached the door, he was stopped by a man with a long black beard. "Sorry, all full up with the lot of you Riff Raff." and with that he backed away and closed the door.
A collected sigh from the crowd echoed through the peer as they turned away to go back home, or wait for the next boat. But not Charley, he had a ticket, he had a genuine ticket to ride, and he was not going to let it go to waste.
Looking over to see a car being prepped to be loaded into the cargo hold, Charley smiled and headed towards the car. looking at it he turned to one of the men standing next to it.
"Say governor, you don't suppose you would let a poor bloke like me, just sit behind the wheel, I would fancy me-self driving along the countryside." He smiled.
The man stood there and smiled, "I suppose it wouldn't harm anything, it wont go anywhere anyway. Too tightly strapped down and the tires have no air."
"That's the way chum, I'll climb in and give it a go then." he said climbing into the drivers seat. "Hi me lady, nice day for a drive, 'ello kind sir."
The man smiled and turned to talk to another man standing on the other side of him. " Do you think she will make it on time?"
"Definitely, I have a friend in high standing in the company, he said he will persuade Mr Smith to keep her on time if not a day early." the other man said with a heavy laugh. "Now, don't worry about the car, and let's have a drink."
The two men walked  away leaving Charley to himself in the car. jumping into the backseat, Charley hid on the floor under a blanket they used to cover the seat to keep dust from collecting on the leather. As he did this, he felt himself rising into the air as a crane lifted the car to put it into storage.


"And I told you, I have a ticket right here that says I am a first class passenger." A young man with long black hair stood arguing with uniformed officer of the ship line.
"Sir, we do not have a Vlad Clayton on the manifest, I do not care if you have a ticket." the officer said.
"You have my name on the list, and you will let me on." Said Vlad as he looked the man in the eyes. "And I expect a full apology for your show of disrespect."
The man looked pale white, "Yes sir, up the way through the doors sir..."
"Thank you."
Vlad walked to the door and to the grand staircase which lead to the main hall. However as he was about to ascend the stairs there was a ruckus of voices coming from down one of the halls.
"Let go of me, I have a ticket..." Charley yelled.
"If you had a ticket, then why were you seen down in the cargo hold, hiding in a car." one of the officers said.
Vlad recognized the young man from a work house he was board member of. He turned back around and smiled.
"Charley, thats where you went, I assumed you were on your way up to our state room." said Vlad in a loud authoritative voice.
"You know this ruffian?" one of the officers said surprised.
"Of course sir, he's my son. I believe I would know my own son." Vlad said looking into the mans eyes.
"Yes sir..."
"Now Charley, I told you not to wander off too far my boy." said Vlad with a smile and a pat on Charley's shoulder.
Charley smiled and played along. "Sorry father, I will be more careful."
The two headed down the stairs and then into the rest of the boat to to get to Vlad's cabin. As they wondered down one hall to the next Vlad looked down at his young friend.
"So what were you doing hiding down in the cargo?" Vlad smiled.
"I have a ticket, but when I got to the door, they said they were full up. So I made the decision to sneak aboard and take my rightful place." Charley smiled.
"You have always been resourceful."
"You have always bailed me out it seems." Charley smiled.
Standing at the door of a rather impressively large room. Charley looked inside the door. Looked  "bloody hell!" he cried. "This place makes my flat look like a tin can."
Vlad laughed and then lead Charley into his room and closed the door. Walking over to a sofa Vlad sat down with a sigh, followed by Charley next to him.
"My offer still stands Charley." said Vlad turning to his friend.
"I have been thinking about it these last few years, but after all, you offered it when I was just a mere lad of sixteen, I was young and foolish to have turned it down." Charley frowned.
"You were not foolish, I was..." Vlad said getting up and walking over to a fireplace against the wall. "I was selfish thinking that all I had to do was to ask you to live with me, to share life together."
Charley got up and walked over to face his friend. "Who's more the fool Vlad, you for loving me, or  I being the fool to turn you away, after all you did for me."                                                                   

Chapter 2. The begining

The year was 1909, in a small workhouse Charley lived in. The evening meal was just about to start when Charley noticed what was on the menu and had enough of the swill they called food.
From the time he was eight years old, he had been part of the staff of workers at the orphanage. He hated living there, he hated the master, he hated his life.
As the years passed, he became more and more disgusted with his life at the workhouse, when he decided enough was enough. After eight years in the living hell, Charley sat with his co-workers at the same table, eating the same gruel.
As he watched the headmaster and the staff sit at the head table, eating a roast pig, vegetables, and fresh bread.
Charley's mouth watered while he suffered with the aroma coming off the pig, and the other foods, his own bowl giving off a foul smell which made him so sick he got up from the table, walked to the door, and then put his hand to his neck.
“I have had enough of this vile dung!” he said as he left.
Running out of the workhouse, Charley was chased by a couple senior staff members trying to get him back. However, he hid under a carriage till they passed by.

Chapter 3: fateful meeting.
The sun was shining overhead, with a gentle breeze blowing. The smell of freedom, the warmth against his face, and the aroma of the shops along K street, made Charley's mouth water.
A bakery right near where Charley stood, invited him in, along with a sign that said; “Help needed.”
“They need help, I need a job.” Charley thought to himself as he entered the building.
The aroma of sweet puddings, bread and Rolls. Loaves of crusty bread, pastries and other sweets filled the air.
“Excuse me my young man,” a well dressed man with a walking cane, said with a smile. “Could you get me a loaf of that crusty bread, and a few pastries?”
At first Charley was about to tell the man to get it himself. However, he though again about it, and realized, this man may think he worked there.
Taking advantage of the situation, Charley climbed a small step latter, grabbed the loaf of bread, and then sacked up a few of the sweet jellied pastries the man pointed out.
“Is there anything else you require sir?”
“No, I believe that is all I need for now.” The man smiled and gave Charley the money for the items.
The owner watching all of this and waited to see what Charley would do about the money, watched with amazement.
Charley took the money, placed it in a box marked for cash, and made change, and then handed the money to the gentleman.
“Here you go sir, and if there is anything we can do for you and your needs, please do not hesitate to ask. We are here to serve you.”
The man smiled and put the money back into Charley's hand. “That is your gratuity for a job well done my friend.” he said and with that, was out the door.
Charley returned to the old man, took the change, and handed it to the owner, “I believe this should go to you. After all, I do not work for you.”
The old man smiled. “Well if you do not work for me, then yes this is mine.”then put it into Charley's pocket. “Alas, I do not believe in taking gratuity from my employees. Now, what is your name?”
“Charley sir, Charley Gladstone sir.”
The mans smile faded for a moment. “Gladstone, I have a Gladstone as employee as well.”
Charley's eyes widened as the old man said this. He was not expecting to hear this Revelation.

Chapter 4
The air in the shop became a bit thick with both anticipation, and with a bit of fear around young Charley, could this be a relative? Could this be just a coincident? Charley didn't know what to think about all of this. However, just as he was about to ask a question, a young man with long black hair came walking into the room.
“Victor, this is Charley, you have something in common.” The old man smiled as he made the introduction.
Victor smiled and reached out his hand to take Charley's hand in a friendly greeting. “Nice to meet you Charley. What do you have in common with me?”
“You share the same last name.” The old man said with a wide smile.
Victor was a bit taken aback by this. “What is your mothers name?” he asked.
Charley thought for a moment, after all, it has been years since he had to even think about his mother, “Her name was Yvette.”
Both the old man and Victor looked at each-other, their mouth dropped in disbelief. Victor Pulled out a locket from under his shirt and opened it up, there was a picture inside of a beautiful young woman. Her long black hair glistened in the light above her. Turning toward Charley, “Have you seen this picture before?” he asked.
Charley looked at the picture, and gasped. “That is my mum!” he said, as he too took out a locket.
The locket also contained a photo of a woman with long black hair. It was the same woman in Victor's locket.
Words could not express the feelings the two strangers felt at this moment. Time seemed to have stopped for both of them as they put the two lockets together to find they were meant to be together. The lockets had been made to be like a jigsaw with each part to fit together to complete the shape of a heart.
Victor Looked at Charley, and Charley looked at Victor. Both young man realizing they were brothers, separated by time and distance.
Fate being the keeper of all time, of all things good, all things bad, and all things of the world, decided to bring these two lost brothers together, fate has smiled upon them, and nothing in this world will ever separate them again.

Chapter 5: twist of fate.

Charley put in a long days work. Baking bread, mixing dough, and cleaning pots. He was used to work, he was used to labor, but he was not used to having breaks and a full meal. For lunch, the manager made Bangers and mash, soda bread, and salad. Charley ate one plate slowly, trying not to eat too fast. However, he was finished with his plate of food, the old man smiled and piled on another heap of mashed potatoes, and another four sausages.
Filled to the point he thought he would explode, Charley pushed away from the table, grabbed his belly and gave out a belch. This made Victor laugh and he too belched as well.
“Indeed!” the old man laughed. “Well now that we had our meal, time to get back to work. We have a load of orders to fulfill.”
“Do I have to go to the Clayton estate again?” asked Victor with a hint of disrespect.
“Why, I thought you liked going there?” Old man Philip asked surprised.
Victor lowered his head. “I am sorry sir, I used to like going there, but Vlad is a bit, Mental.”
Philip cocked his head to one side, “Why?”
“I went there on our last order, and I cut my finger on the bread knife as he invited me to sit and enjoy some bread he had made he wanted me to taste. When I cut the bread, I also cut my finger, and he looked at the blood, he was like a mad man. His face all contorted, and he turned away.” Victor explained.
Philip laughed, “Thats cause he can not stand the sight of blood. He get sick when he sees a cut.”
“I still do not like him.”
“I will go.” Charley offered.
Philip Smiled, “Very well, you will find everything you need in that case right there on the table. Victor, you will go with him and drive the Automobile.”
“Yes sir, just as long as I do not have to step one foot in that creepy place.” Victor said with a shiver.
The two brothers loaded the Carriage with the wares. Cakes, pastries and bread of all kinds. Boxes and bags of items fit snuggly in the carriage back.
The trip was rather tedious to say the least, the brothers, though having years to catch up, stayed silent for a while till they left London.
“Were have you been living?” Victor asked to break the ice.
“London-Town Orphanage. It is a workhouse.” said Charley.
“A work house, I thought those were outlawed years ago?” Victor said shocked.
Charley frowned, “Someone should tell the Governors that. So have you been working for Philip for a while?”
Victor smiled, “yes, actually Philip is my uncle, he is your uncle to be precise, he took me in when I as just about two years of age, has brought me up since.”
The carriage began to roll down a hill rather quicker then it should, even with Victor applying the breaks. He pulled on the lever, yet the vehicle would not stop.
“Hold on!” Victor shouted as he continued to try everything possible to stop the run away motorized Carriage.
Ahead a curve on the hill came quickly, there was no time to think, no time to react. Victor pushed his brother out of the car and threw himself out as well. Victor landed on the grassy knoll to the side of the road, his body violently hitting the ground.
Charley however was not as fortunate, for his body landed on the stone filled road, rolling incredibly fast as he hit the ground.
Blood ran from his head and other parts of his body. He was in pain, fear enveloped around him as everything around him seemed to get darker.
“Charley!” a voice came from the distance. “Oh my precious lord no!”
Victor cried as he knelt down to find his brother covered in rocks, dust and blood. “No God, not Charley!”

Chapter  6. Recovery.

Charley opened his eyes, to find he was in a strange room. The air thick with the sweet aroma of fresh cut roses. He could feel clean sheets and blankets over his body, and dressed in a clean night shirt.
Gazing around the room, he saw the walls were white, with paintings scattered around the room giving color to the blank walls.
He raised his hand to his head and found he had a cloth bandage wrapped around his head, he had no recollection of how he had managed to get  himself in this predicament in the first place. He did not know who he was as well, everything was scary, strange and terrifying,
“Well would you look at this, he lives.” Victor said with a smile.
“Who are you, and where am I?” Charley asked with tears beginning to fill his eyes.
Victor gave a sad look at his brother, “Your at my home, and I am your brother.”
Charley cried even more, he was confused about how he got there, who was this young man claiming to be his brother?
“Do not fear my brother, I will figure out how to help you remember.” Victor smiled.
“How did I get here?”
“You and I were driving in an automobile, when the breaks went faulty. I pushed you out and I jumped out in the nick of time. The automobile, flew straight off the cliff, and now lay in ruin at the bottom of the river.” Victor explained.
Charley lay silent, his head in pain, his eyes red from crying and his hands trembling caused by his shot nerves. Raising his shaking hands to his face, Charley tried to clear his eyes from all his tears.
“I can not stop crying, I am so sorry for my weakness.” he said as he continued to wipe his eyes with his sleeves.
Victor smiled as he pulled out his handkerchief. “You are quite alright my brother. It is not the show of weakness, it shows you still are human.”
“I wish I could remember, but I am glad that you are my brother.” Charley said, as he took the handkerchief and wiped his eyes.
“I am glad I still have a brother.” Victor smiled. “I am going to go and get our meal ready. I am sure you are ready to eat. After all, you have been out two days.”
Charley laid on the bed, looking at the painting of a young man in a blue suit. The painting had to be very old, for the suit was like that of a Victorian era. A white collar, fluffy with frills. Buttons all the way up to the neck, and white cuffs above the wrists.
As Charley gazed at the painting, he realized the face of the man, looked a lot like the man who claimed to be his brother, Victor.
The door opened again, and Victor walked in with a tray of food. Placing it down next to Charley on a side table, he opened the lid to reveal a Hearty meal Toad in a hole, fried potatoes and a side of bangers.
“About that painting?”” Charley asked, pointing to the painting he was looking at earlier. “The man looks like you.”
Victor looked up at the painting. “Yes. It is actually me. My uncle painted it a couple years ago. He thought it would be a laugh to see peoples reaction to a painting of me in those cloths.” He explained. “Now you eat, and when your done, you need to rest.”
Charley smiled and dived into the meal like a wild man. “Bloody hell, this is good.” Continuing to eat his meal.
“Good you liked it.”
Finishing his meal, Charley yawned, and smiled, “Thank you Victor.”
Victor smiled, “Your wel...” he stopped. “... you called me by name!”
Charley smiled. “May I am recovering.”
“I hope so my brother, I really hope so.” Victor smiled and took the empty tray with him as he left.
:”Victor?”
“Yes?”
“I love you.”
Victor's eyes filled with tears, he had not heard those words in so long. “I love you to my brother.”
Charley smiled and closed his eyes, falling asleep almost immediately.

Chapter 7  Parting of ways

As the days progressed into months, and the months pasted into a new year. The old days of youth was gone for this now Sixteen year old young man. Charles Danville Gladstone stood proudly with his brother Victor Jamison Gladstone. They stood at their Uncles Grave site, watching as tears flowed down their cheeks, mixed with the bitter rain falling around them.
Proud of knowing this wise old man for a year he has called uncle, honored to be known as a nephew to this great man whom was loved throughout the neighborhood.
Philip Torrelli was a giving man, he gave of his time to the bakery he loved. He gave to the neighborhood he lived in. Never turning away a poor bloke who needed a loaf of bread to feed his family. He would not just give him a loaf of bread, but a sack of potatoes, a chicken and a pudding. He was that kind of a man.
Charley was not grieving his uncles death, but he was celebrating the mans life and service to the community. Smiling and giving a giggle, he started to laugh at a memory of the first day he met his uncle.
Charley remembered working with Victor at the oven, when Philip started to laugh. He was covered From head to foot with icing from a piping bag which exploded while he (Philip) gave it a bit too hard of a squeeze.
“Blimey, I know I love getting into my work, but I not my work on me.” Philip laughed.
Charley Remembered sitting at the dinner table and Philip told a joke that made them all laugh so hard, milk he was drinking came out of his nose. This sent the other two laughing even harder.
Life with this man was full of fun, and good times. Even during some sad times, Philip was quick to get the mood changed. He was like that.

The people at the funeral gave Charley a glare of disapproval for laughing at a somber time like this. However, Charley ignored them and whispered to his brother what he was recalling, and this made Victor giggle as well.
“You two, show more respect!” an elderly woman said harshly.
Charley just smiled, “I am showing respect. My uncle was a great man, he did great things, he also was a kind man that found humor in everything and every situation he was faced. I honor him with memories of good times; I honor him with the memories of a man that lived life, and loved life. I bring him respect by laughing at the good memories. I will always remember what my uncle meant to me, and I will always remember him for who he was, and what he did for me.”
“Amen my brother, Amen.” Victor smiled and laughed. “Ok, enough sadness, let us celebrate this man and all he stood for at our home with a grand party.”
The other people nodded and smiled, save the old woman whom happened to be Philip's sister Ingrid. A bitter old woman whom never had any real respect or love for her brother, other then the fact that she shared the family fortune with him, but could not wait for him to die so she could gain the entire estate.
“Oh yes, and by the way Aunt, you will be receiving a notice from the magistrate concerning the will, it has been changed.” Victor said as he climbed into the new Automobile they had bought a week after the almost fatal accident.
She stood silent, she did not know how to respond. Besides, Victor and Charley was already driving down the road, and away from view.


.Chapter 8: facing a new day..

As the sun rose over the tops of the trees which adorned the Gladstone estate, Charley got up from his bed and walked to the large French doors. Opening them up, a cool breeze came up, making him feel much better. A hint of roses and other flowers lofted into the air to meet his nose, the aroma tickled him and he started to sneeze.
“Ah, so the patient lives?” a voice coming from in back of him made Charley jump.
“Bloody hell Victor, you scared me out of my skin!” he said as he turned to face his brother.
Victor smiled with a glint of wickedness in his eyes. “You know brother, I think you are ready to get back to work, do you not?”
“I am ready.”
“Good, then into the bathroom you go, and take a shower, you smell like death warmed over.” Victor said with a mischievous laugh.
Charley smiled, “It might help if I knew where the bloody W C suite was in the first?”
Victor laughed, “I suppose it would.”
Leading Charley down a hall and into a large room, Charley recognized the shower from the off, it was like one he had seen a long time ago at the work house. Though the showers were off limits to the residents, he had seen it on his way through the work area into the hall which lead to the Great Hall for the meals.
“It is very simple to operate.” Victor said, as he pointed to the knob. “Just turn this and water will come out of that.” he pointed to the shower head.
“Oh this is too difficult for me, maybe you can show me how? Charley laughed.
Victor laughed, “I suppose you want me to wash your back for you as well.”
Charley laughed and began to take off his shirt. “I think I will manage on my own.”
With a wink, Victor headed out of the bathroom,  “If you need anything, just pull that bell right there, and someone will come to assist you.” he said and then left the room.
Standing now nude and turning on the water, Charley stepped under the shower head. The cold water woke him up, though not uncomfortable.
Finishing up, Charley felt better and was ready to face the world again he had left just days before. He was ready for the challenge of work, of meeting new people, and continuing his life with his brother.
Yet a foreboding sense of fear entered his mind. He was very afraid of motor cars, and he also had now a feeling his life was about to change in some dramatic way.

Chapter 9 too young too foolish

The first day back to work, Charley felt every muscle in his body hurt. After all, he had been out of work for the last three days, and add to that, he was still sore.
The day started out with the usual flow of customers, some grabbing up the freshest of bread loaves, while others purchasing Puddings. The oven worked over time while Charley and his brother began to fill orders.
When it was time for the midday meal, they realized they had to make their own meal. The reality of not having uncle Philip with them hit hard.
“God I miss him.” Victor said with tears flowing down his cheeks.
“I as well. Though I have only known him a year, it seemed as though, I knew him most of my life.” Charley said putting his hand on his brothers shoulder.
Just as the brothers were about to close the door to fix something to nosh, the door opened and a gentleman came in wearing a long black coat, top hat, and a cane with a silver handle.
“Sorry sir, we were about to close for the afternoon.” Charley said politely.
Victor turned pale white, “V-Vlad Clayton, it is a surprise to see you sir.”
“Yes, I do not come out, during the day much, but it is a rather nice day, and I wanted to,” he paused.“Stretch my legs.”
Charley smiled at the man he only met once at Philip's funeral. “I am well sir, is there anything in particular you require?”
Vlad smiled as he looked at Charley directly in the eyes. “As a matter of fact, I am very interested in a few loaves of sourdough, along with a pudding.”
Charley, took down the order. “Sir, since we are going to be closed, we will have to make this order a delivery if you wish?”
“That would be fine.”
Victor stood at the oven and closed off the floo after dousing the flames. “We can have it at your home in a couple hours.”
Vlad smiled, “You are welcome anytime to my estate.” With that, Vlad headed out the door and turned once again to smile, then  left.
Victor shivered at the memories he had of Vlad. “I have never told uncle about that man the last time that I was there at his house.”
“What happened?”
Victor went to the door and locked up, he then closed the curtains and then gave the motion with his finger for Charley to follow him to the back.
Charley of course followed his brother to the back, “what are you playing at?” he asked.
“Charley, I am going to tell you something that I ask you to never repeat to a soul.” Victor said looking deep into Charley's eyes.
“I promise.”
“When I went up to his house, there was a note on the door. The note said to bring the order to the back of the house. As I made my way to the back, there was two dogs standing at the back door, and I could not enter. I yelled out to anyone that would let me in, the dogs were growling.
Vlad came out and stood next to his dogs, and ordered them into the house. We entered the house, and the first thing I noticed was how dusty it was.” Victor said and took a drink of coffee.
Charley sat silent as he listened to his brother tell his tale. He did not want to interrupt his brother by asking stupid questions. However, he could not control himself, “He must be a mental, I mean, if he dose not care enough to clean his house?”
Victor laughed, “He is eccentric, worth what I hear millions of dollars.”
“But still, but I digress, go ahead with your story victor.” Charley said as he drank his coffee.
Victor smiled, took a drink, and continued.”As we went into the kitchen, I sat the order down on the counter and then turned to Vlad. 'that will be, 5 pounds 37p' I said looking at the bill. Vlad smiled and reached into his pocket and pulled out a crown, 'Keep the change my young man.' he said and then came closer to me and put the money into my hand. His hands cold, and  he gave me a fright as he glared into my eyes. 'please forgive me for being so forward, you are a very beautiful young man. Fair skin, and your eyes are of the most bright blue.”
I pulled my hand away from Vlad, and started toward the door. 'You will forgive me for not entertaining you. I am not interested in such things.' leaving him alone.”
“You mean he wanted to...” Charley started.
“Seduce me.”
“I do not know what I would do if that were to happen to me?” Charley smiled.
Victor smiled and finished his coffee. “Now, it looks like we are going to have to give the man a call, and make the delivery.”
“If you are not comfortable with going, I would be more then happy take your place.” Charley offered.
Victor smiled, “I will wait in the car, I will not let you go it alone.”

Chapter 10: Regretful choices.

The day couldn't have been more perfect. A sky of ocean blue, with just a few fluffy clouds scattered throughout the sky.
As the car traveled down the road, Charley remembered the day of the accident, and held onto the dashboard with white knuckles. He remembered the fear he felt, as the car sped out of control. He remembered the screams of terror and he closed his eyes.
“Charley.” a voice of Victor rang in his ears.
“Yes?”
“We are here, you can open your eyes.” Victor smiled.
Opening his eyes, Charley ogled at the vast estate. “My god!” he exclaimed, “This place is bigger then our estate, and I thought our house was large.”
Victor smiled, “My uncle always had plans of building onto our house, however we were happy with what we had.”
The sky began to darken, as clouds of gray covered the sun. A wind picked up speed, blowing leaves across the green lawn, and cobble stone driveway.
“Vlad!” Victor shouted out, as he knocked on the door.
The howling of the wind, sent a cold shiver down the brothers neck as they waited for their host to open the door. Their heart raced when the sound of locks being undone, and the sound of the latch being pressed
The massive oak doors opened with a creak as the metal hinges protested to being moved; and wood frames baring the weight of the heavy door groaned as well in protest.
Victor stood back as Vlad emerged in the door frame. Dressed in total black from head to foot with a cloak and hat covering his eyes.
“Please enter, and welcome.” he said as he moved to one side.
The brothers entered the foyer carrying boxes with all the items Vlad had ordered, Puddings, rolls and breads. Cheese and butter were among the many items.
Entering the kitchen, the brothers put the boxes down on a counter, and then started for the door they had just entered.
“Please stay, I am afraid the weather is getting rather nasty out tonight and I won't take no for an answer.” Vlad offered.

The brothers gave each other a glance and thought about the invitation. The last thing they wanted to do was to be here with this creepy man, let alone stay for an extended amount of time.
Just as they were going to make their decision, another man came rushing through the door soaking wet, covered head to foot with mud.
“Sorry sir,” the man said as he breathed heavy. “I just ran from the main road, a tree has fallen and the road is blocked.”
“Blocked?”
“Bloody brilliant!” Charley exclaimed in anger.
“My offer stands gentlemen.” Vlad smiled.
The brothers nodded collectively and agreed, besides, nothing could be done about the tree till morning and when the weather cooperated.
Vlad lead the brothers into rest of the house into the den. The whole of the house was adorned in white marble walls, and black marble on the floor. A spiral staircase lead up and had golden color hand railing.
An aroma of Roses filled the very air around them and relaxed them from the worries or the tension they had felt earlier.
“I want to apologize for the way I behaved the last time you were here Victor, I had no right to be so forward.” Vlad said with a smile as he sat down on a chair with a high back covered in leather.
The brothers sat on a sofa with wing arms and white cloth covering, the cloth was silky smooth and cushions were comfortable.
“I am sorry I ran off like that, it just took me by surprise.” Victor smiled.
Charley sat silent as the two men exchanged their remorse, it was a touching moment that he did not want to interrupt. However, he was feeling a bit hungry, after all it had been a few hours since they had lunch at the bakery.
“You look as if you could use a nice dinner.” Vlad said as if he could read Charley's mind.
“Yes sir, but we do not want to be a burden.” commented Victor humbly.
“Nonsense,” Vlad smiled, “you are my guests, and I will give you everything your heart desires.”
With that, Vlad clapped his hands together, and within a couple seconds the servant they had seen earlier came in with a tray of Tea, cups, and an assortment of foods.
Charley and Victor ate their fill to the enjoyment of Vlad, whom himself did not eat, but watched with glee.

Chapter 11:  Night of shadows, dreams of angels


The night air was cold as it came through an open window. The Castle was old, there were no heaters, and the fire in the fireplace was out and the embers were cold.
“Blasphemer!’
“Damnation!”
“Purgatory!” another shouted and hit Charley on the shoulder with his rod.
A man dressed in a completely white gown stood in front of them. His eyes showed the same distain and disappointment the other people were showing.
“Your condemned to purgatory for what you have done!” he said as he hit a staff on Charley’s shoulder.
“Victor!” He shouted as he felt someone grabbing at his shoulders and arms. He struggled to get himself free.
“Charley!” Victor cried out. “Char-ley!”
The voice diminished, everything became black. Charley cried as he stood in a dark room. Shadows moved around him chanting something incoherent, he could only make out one word, “Nosophoros!” .
Fear gripped his whole being and Charley lashed out to grab at the shadows. “Stop it…Stop it…Stop!”
His eyes opening wild as he looked around his room at the castle. Charley then realized where he was and began to laugh.
The door opened quickly and his brother rushed in. shirtless and with only a pair of undergarments covering his lower half.
“What the bloody hell was that? He asked out of breath.
Charley giggled and then smiled, “I am so sorry brother, it was a very bad dream.”
Victor could not see the humor in this at all, “Then why are you laughing about it.”
“It was just a silly dream, it was scary yes, and I was screaming in the dream, but I am awake and I am alright now.” Charley reassured his brother, who was already looking out the window and making sure it was locked. Taking a letter opener from the side table, he cut his finger and drew a cross on the wall above Charley’s head.
“What the devil is that for, what you playing at?”
“Protection, there is something else that I failed to tell you yesterday about Vlad…” Victor said cautiously.
“I heard a scream, Is everything in order?” Vlad said entering the room. As he approached, he saw the blood cross on the headboard, and backed away.
“Why have you done this?” he shouted.
“To keep you away from my brother!” Victor shouted.
“He is promised to me.”
“And I have the authority to take away that promise.” Victor stood in front of their host.
“It is inevitable, fate had sealed him to me, and no man or angel can stop that, not even your filthy blood cross!” Vlad said as he moved forward toward Victor.
“NO!”
Charley opened his eyes again, this time his brother stood over him shaking his body trying to wake him up.
“Oh Victor, it was horrible!” Charley cried.
“You had a bad dream, I heard my name, and then I heard you yell out. I came as fast as I could.” he said as he stood shirtless and in only a pair of undergarments to cover his lower half.
Charley glanced at the door, afraid Vlad would come in as before in his dream, or was he still dreaming.
“I heard the screaming from my chambers, is everything in order?” Vlad asked.
“Keep him away!” Charley shouted.
Victor looked at Vlad, then back at Charley. “Did he do something to you?”
“Of course not, I made a mistake before with you, and I do not intend on making that mistake again.”
“No, he did not do anything to me.” said Charley, as he got up out of bed. Going to the window and took in a breath of air, he also glanced at the rising sun and realized it was becoming morning and the weather was clear.
“Ah, the sun shines on a new day. I suspect you are hungry, I have taken the liberty of having a spot of breakfast out on the patio.” Vlad smiled, then turned to leave. “After breakfast, you are welcome to stay on, or proceed home.”
The brothers watched their host leave, and it seemed he shadow in his wake stayed for a moment to look at them then followed.
“What happened, your as white as a ghost?” Victor asked.
Charley came back and grabbed his clothes, “It was just a stupid dream, I should have just realized that and not reacted the way I did.”
“What was it about?”
“We were somewhere surrounded by people in white…” he started.
“Clothes, and they were chanting, Blasphemer, and all sorts of names correct?” Victor said finishing Charley’s sentence.
“Yes, but how?”
“I too had the same dream. Possibly at the very same time as you.” Victor explained.
How could two different people share the same dream, however they were too hungry to talk about this any further. After all there the road, and the Journey back home.

Chapter 12: Rebuilding dreams.

After a hearty breakfast of bangers and mash, toad in a hole, and coffee, the brothers were stuffed to the brim, and was ready to head home.
“I am sad to see you go, however, I know you have other people you must take care of.” Vlad frowned.
Charley walked up to Vlad and put out his hand. “Your kindness sir, I shall always remember.”
Vlad smiled, “You are always welcome in my home, anytime you wish.”
Victor on the other hand just gave Vlad a nod and headed out the door with no words exchanged.
Charley puzzled by this, gave Vlad a look of confusion. “What really happened that day he came up here?”
“Let us just say, I was inappropriate with my feelings toward him, after all, he was a young lad, and I made advancements on him.” Vlad explained.
“Come on Charley, we have a long ride ahead!” Victor called from outside.
“Go with your brother, some day you can return here anytime, I have enjoyed your company.” Vlad said nodding to Victor who was glancing at his pocket watch.
“Thank you again for your kindness.”
With that, Charley headed out the door and looked back one more time to smile at his host. However, Vlad had already headed into the house, and the large oak door was closing behind him.
“I do not want you to ever come back here again, he is a mad man, I do not trust him.” Victor warned.
“He is just lonely brother, he has no intention of harming anyone. He is just a very lonely man.” Charley smiled.
“Still…” Victor said nothing after this, his attention turned to the road, and to the long journey ahead of them.
Charley curled up and decided to get a bit more sleep. His night interrupted by the bad dream, he wondered what it was all about, what it meant.
“Victor?”
“Yes?”
“What is the meaning of the word, ‘Nosophoros’?” Charley asked.
Victor stopped the car and gave Charley a very frightening look of astonishment. “Where the bloody hell did you hear that word?”
“The dream, you do not remember the dream we shared?” Charley said confounded.
“I remember the dream, but that word was not in my dream.” Victor said starting the car out again.
“But what dose it mean?” Charley persisted.
Victor stayed silent for a moment, his heart races as he drove the car toward their estate. Fear and terror gripped both boys as they saw their beloved home, engulfed in flames and smoke billowing out windows and out the roof.
A fire brigade were already there trying to put out the flames, however the whole of the hose was already destroyed by the inferno.
“What happened?” Victor asked as he ran toward a fire brigadier.
“Some woman yelling about revenge soaked the house with petrol, then herself. Lit a match and then poof she was up in flames. The neighbors witnessed this and called in the Bobby’s, and they called us in.” The man explained.
The fire died and the smoke turned from dark black to grey and then finaly to just a white misty clouds.
“Well, that is it I suppose.” The brigadier said as he took in a breath of fresh air. “Bob’s your uncle, start packing up.”
“Wait, is the woman alive?” Charley asked.
“No, I am afraid she was burned to a crisp, God rest her poor soul, we just did not have time to get here to save her.”
The brothers stood in horror as they watched their home, the place they loved, now charred and burned. The windows broken, the wood door smashed and lay to one side. The smell of burned carpets and paintings. Everything they owned were in ruin.
Charley cried, “Damnation!”
“We can rebuild it.” Victor assured.
“Yes, we can rebuild the walls, we can make a new door, we can replace the windows. But can we really rebuild the memories within the walls. Can we replace the love and the years of togetherness we all had. Uncle and you and I?” Charley cried.
Victor stayed silent, he did not know what to say, or how to comfort his brother, except to hold Charley close in an embrace only brothers and true friends know and can share.

Chapter 13: Starting anew

The morning air, crisp and clean. Charley reached out his arms above his head as he yawned and stretched toward the sun.
“Charley, we need to talk.” Victor said as he entered the room.
The brothers had to stay at the bakery till they made a decision concerning the house. A stressful  decision to be sure. For the house has been in the family for hundreds of years, and the job of restoring it to its former glory, would at best, be expensive; at worse impossible because of the damage done by the fire.
As the brothers sat at the breakfast table, they weighed heavy with worry over the business, the house, and their lives.
“I can not take this anymore.” Victor said holding his head. “If we fix the house, the money spent on the remodel will take away from the business, however, we can not just live here above the business, because it is just too small.”
Charley smiled, “I have lived in smaller places, and with ten or more boys in a smaller room then this. I am used to living in a small place.”
Victor turned his lips up, as he got up and headed to the window over looking the bay.. “I am not going to live here, but I am not going to waste our money on that house either. If you want to live here, you are very welcome to it. I have to have a place of my own. Maybe this is a message, maybe this is fate saying it is time to move on.”
Charley stood up to meet Victor at the window. “What are you saying brother?”
Victor turned to face his brother, “I am saying, maybe it is time we, part ways. I am not saying that I do not love you as a brother, that will never change. But after uncles death, and now the fire, I have been thinking about this with my heart.”
“We can go together, face the challenge of life together. I do not want you to leave, what if something happens to you and…” Charley started to cry. “…and your hurt, or worse.”
Victor put his arms on Charley’s shoulder. “brother, do not worry about me. I can take care of myself. You need to be strong, you need to go on without me. Besides, you need to watch and keep the business going here. After all, this was our uncles first dream, we honor him by continuing his dream. Remember just because I am somewhere else, it dose not mean I will stop being your brother. Until death I will always be your brother.”
Charley wiped his eyes and nodded after embracing his brother. Thoughts rushed through his mind as he sat back down at the table.
“Where would you go?” Charley asked.
“I have always fancied going to America, maybe set up a shop there somewhere, rebuild my fortune.” Victor smiled.
“When shall you leave?”
Charley contemplated this for a moment. He really had not thought about leaving till they had the conversation. “As soon as I can get passage to America.”
Charley smiled, “maybe I can go with you just on the boat, and then come back after seeing you off there in America “
“That would be a grand idea.” Victor smiled.
“Then it is settled. We go together at least on the boat, and then we part ways.” Charley smiled and went back to eating.
Victor smiled and finished his meal. Yet his mind wondered, to thoughts about what the future really held for him and Charley. What would Charley do with the business, What would he do for his new business. He knew baking, he knew how to do accounting, but he had to learn more about American money.
The rest of the day was spent with the brothers packing boxes and other items Victor would need for his trip. Not only Victor’s belongings, but some of their uncles as well, for keepsakes.
A ticket sat on the mantle, right next to a picture of their uncle. A vase with a single rose sat next to the picture which has been their since the funeral.
Victor got up and took the ticket into his hand and his hands began to tremble, and he started to cough.
“Are you alright?” Charley asked with concern.
“Oh, I just have a bit of a cold. This will not stop me from going you know that.” Victor answered coughing still.
“Do you really think this is such a good idea? After all, you do not look good at all?” Charley asked again in concern.
“Brother, I think I know what is best.”
“I…”
“Look,” Victor stated with a sigh. “I love you brother, and we shall always be brothers. No angel, demon, or devil himself can stop that. But I need to get away from this town, away from the memories of this place. I need to find a place where I do not have to deal with the reminders of this life. I will remember uncle, and I will remember you brother, but I want to forget the past, the hurt and pain.” he coughed again harder, his breathing became labored, and he fell to the ground.
Charley ran to the window, “Help!” he yelled, drawing attention of a young lad passing by. “Get a doctor please.”
The lad ran down the street and out of sight. Charley wondered if the lad just ran out of fear, or if he would return with help.
“Sir!” someone banged on the shop door.
Charley ran down the stairs as fast as he could, his heart raced within his chest to the point it hurt to breath.
“Up-stairs…brother…on floor.” he managed to say.
The officer ran up the stairs with Charley in the lead. As they came to the top of the stairs, the officer saw Victor on the floor. His face completely flush, and his lips were blue.
The officer got on the phone and called for a medic to rush over as soon as he could. With luck, the hospital was just down the road from the shop, so it did not take long for the medic to make it there.
The tension built in the air, Charley cried to see his brother on the ground, perhaps dead. He felt helpless, he felt as if his entire world was coming down around him.
“Charley, he will be alright.” the officer said.
The officer was a regular customer in the mornings for breakfast. He would order the hot bagel with cream cheese.
“I hope so.” Charley said as the tears continued to flow down his face.
The bell on the door rang as someone came into the shop. Charley’s thoughts went wild at that moment. He became angry, “We are closed!” he shouted down stairs.
“Charley, this is Vlad is everything alright?” Vlad shouted as he came up the stairs.
Rushing to the stairs and almost flying down, he grabbed Vlad and held onto him. “Its Victor, something happened and he is on the floor. He- he might be dead!”
Vlad walked up the stairs to find the scene of the officer over Victors body, still and skin blue.
“My god man, he needs air.” Vlad said bending down and tilting Victors head back.
Victor began to cough again, his face still pale however his lips were returning to the pinkish hew it should be.
“How the bloody hell did you know how to do that?” The officer asked in amazement.
“Common sense, if the person is blue, there is no oxygen getting to him, moving his head back opens the air way.” Vlad explained as he looked down at Victor, stoking his head.
“Alright there my Friend?”
Victor coughed and nodded his head. “I…” he began to sob. “Vlad, I was so wrong about you, I want you to take care of Charley.”
The medic finally arrived panting as he carried equipment on his back. “There will be more men coming soon.” he stopped and assessed the situation.
Downstairs there came noises of people gathering in the shop, Charley came down the stairs and lead the men, total four in all, up the stairs to help.
“He will need to come to the hospital so we can run some tests.” one of the medics said as he looked at Victor.
“Take care of Charley, take good care of my brother.” Victor said as he lost consciousness.
The men carried Victor down the stairs and out the door to the truck to take him to the hospital.

Charley and Vlad stood back as they watched the truck roll away down the street honking its horn as it disappeared over a hill.
Charley held onto Vlad, “I wish there is something we could do to help him.”
Vlad stood silent for a moment then looked at Charley in his eyes. “There is something, but it would mean a great personal sacrifice.”
“I would sell my very soul to the devil himself, it if meant my brother would live.”


Chapter 14 destiny revealed.


The air stood cold, still and thick with anticipation, as a single young man leaned against a cold stone building, smoking a cigarette. Looking around the corner of the building down an alley, the young man saw a shadow of a person just standing there glaring at him. Putting out his cigarette, he headed down the alley. His heart beating a bit faster as he drew closer to the dark figure in front of him; cold sweat began to pour down his face.
The stranger reached out his hand holding a box out, "Use it well..." was all he said as he put the box in the young mans hands and then turned and vanished down the alley to blend in with the shadows.
Charley looked down at the box in his hand, his heart beat even faster then before. His breath broken, as he opened the lid with fear and trembling hands. He didn't want to use it, having second thoughts about his pact with the devil. However it was not for his sake, he was doing this for the one he loved, the one dieing in a hospital bed.
Opening the lid completely, Charley took out a black vile. There was no label, there was no indication of the contents, however, Charley knew exactly what to do with it. Removing the lid slowly, this young man closed his eyes and cried. "forgive me."
Taking the bottle to his lips, he drank the entire contents with a sour expression on his face. as the liquid traveled into his system, he cried even louder with remorse for what he had done. The sacrifice he was doing to save his brother, his friend, his love. He knew he had to, but at a price he knew he would pay with his very soul.
Pain...
His heart raced faster, his breathing labored...
Fear...
His mind wondered, looking to see if anyone was witness to his ultimate betrayal.
Death...
Silence...

Charley’s eyes opened, everything around him seemed clearer then ever before, the colors vivid, the smells alive, as if he could smell the very life blood of the cat licking his face.
Rising from the cold stone alley, he moves slowly toward entrance of the hospital.
Every step taken with resolve, with purpose and steadfast aim, as he entered his brothers room.
Victor lay on a bed propped up with pillows to make him comfortable, yet it was also to let him breath. Seeing his brother, Victor cried.
“I did not want you to know.” he said slightly winded and with effort to breath.
“What did you not want me to know, Vlad told me his secret tonight, he shared with me the gift which I can share with you. The gift of life, the power of death and life flows in my veins.” Charley said with a smile.
“What are you talking about Charley, I am talking about my condition. I am dieing of lung cancer.” he coughed.
Charley was silent for  a moment as he waited for his brother to settle down. “I can take your pain away, I have that power.”
“Are you mad?”
“I am a vampire.” Charley said bluntly.
As Victor coughed and tried to laugh, Charley’s face turned from the young and innocent, sweet man, into almost a wild animal.
Victor gasped, “Bloody hell!” he screamed. “What have you done?”
“What should have been done before uncle had passed away, I do not want you to die, I want you to live. You’re my brother.” Charley said as he came closer.
“You are no longer my brother, you are a condemned soul and you are damned to eternity for what you have done.” Victor said as he coughed.
Charley backed away as his brother continued to cough, his face turned red, then to a hue of purple as he gasped for air.
“I did this for you, I want to save you.” Charley began to cry.
“Go away!” Victor said as he labored to breath.
A nurse hearing the cry, entered the room and saw Charley standing near his brother. Not knowing who he was, assumed he was there to cause harm to her patient.
“Get out of here before I call security!” she shouted.
Charley looked at her with contempt. “I am his brother.”
“Get-him-out…he-is not- my brother…anymore!”
Charley backed up again, his anger began to build within him. “I am your brother, you said it yourself. ‘no man or angel, or the devil himself can change that.’ and now you can lay there and deny this?”
“When you sold you soul to that devil, my brother died.” Victor said turning over to one side. “Hades have you!”
Charley stood silent, he had nothing else to say. Everything he did was for his brother, becoming a vampire to save him was the ultimate show of love and sacrifice.
“And you can just piss off as well Victor, your brother made the decision years before he met me.” Vlad said with anger in his eyes. “The day he found out you were his brother, he decided he would do anything for you, until death; and you can just lay there and pass judgment on him?”
Victor rolled over to face Vlad. “You did not  seduce him, as you tried with me?”
“I beg your pardon?” the nurse said with outward revolt.
“Pardon us, this is our business. Go about your own thank you very much.” Charley said looking at the nurse directly in her eyes.
The nurse nodded and left the room without a word. Charley turned his attention back to his brother, “I will always love you brother, until death and beyond.”
Victor coughed, then began to cry. His heart filled with remorse for his anger. “You did this for me?
“Yes, I want you to join with me and to live, you do not have to die like uncle did, you do not have to feel the pain and the hurt that you were talking about earlier. You can be free of all of this.” Charley moved slowly closer to his brother.
“I do not do this for myself, I give myself to you, you are my brother, until death and beyond.” Victor said as he turned his neck toward his brother.
Charley smiled, “Brother, I do not have to bite you, that is not how you join us.” He said as he took out a knife from a holder.
Taking a cup sitting on the side table next to the hospital bed, Charley cut his wrist over the cup allowing the blood flow into it.
Victor gasped to see such a sickening display, as he watched in disbelief. He was amazed the cut on Charley’s wrist had healed as if it was never there.
Charley gave the cup to his brother, “drink my brother, and you shall live forever.”
Victor gazed at the red liquid in the glass, its body thick, the aroma surprisingly mild like a vintage wine.
Lifting it to his lips, Victor took the blood in one gulp. The flavor intoxicatingly sweet, it was tantalizing essence, the very essence of life itself.
Victor smiled as he watched his brother take the step toward life without pain or sorrow. “You will feel pain, but it will only last a moment and then the pain will be gone. Charley explained.
The pain hit Victor like he had never felt before. His heart beat faster, sweat poured out of every part of his body its sting hit his eyes first, causing pain.
Charley rushed  to his side, his brother was going through the very same thing he had experienced earlier that evening. He knew fully well, the body had to go through the pain of death, before the soul could live.
Victor breathe in his very last, his eyes turned to face his brother holding him. “I love you…”

Chapter 15 let the truth be told.

For the second time in his life, he has stood on the cemetery lawn looking down at a casket. And for the second time, he had decided not to mourn his loss, but to embrace the life his brother had lived.
He remembered the first day he met Victor, how fast they became friends. He remembered the time Victor came running down the stairs from the flat only with a towel wrapped around his torso yelling about rats in the w c suite.
He recalled his uncle giving Victor a swift kick in the arse because he had left a loaf of bread out over night and it had hardened, all in good fun.
Charley recalled his brothers last words, ‘I love you.’ these magical words spoken very little between men, meant the world to him. He will always remember his brother for being a loving soul, that is what Victor represented.
The funeral was a bit smaller because the people whom had came to his uncles wake, had not shown for his brother. However, this was fine, just family and friends were there, and that is all that mattered.
“We give this soul to you, oh lord…” Charley heard in the distance as the minister gave the benediction. “We give thee your servant, whom hath given of his all to serving thee, oh lord. Bless his soul and forbid him not to enter thy kingdom. Amen.”
The crowd departed and the minister had already put on his coat and was on his way to his car. Charley knelt down and touched his brothers casket. “I failed you my brother.”
“You must not blame yourself my friend.” Vlad said as he put his arm around Charley’s shoulder. “It was not to be for your brother to join us.”
“Why, what did I do wrong?” Charley cried.
“It is a very dodgy thing, this gift.” Vlad smiled. “Fate chooses the moment for everything to work together for the transformation to take place. Your brother was very weak, he was already at the gates of heaven knocking when we tried to intervene. God in his wisdom, chose it was not to be for your brother to suffer any longer.”
“Is my brother right?” Charley started. “Are we an abomination against creation and God? Are we damned for eternity in hells fire for choosing to live beyond the grave? Are we to survive on the blood of humans and cause them pain?”
“We are not subject to exist only on the blood of humans, we can live on animal blood. Although, I do love the flavor from the blood of a young lad or lass.” Vlad laughed, his teeth protruding out.
Charley could not help himself but to laugh, he started to chuckle, then uncontrollable laughter erupted from his very soul. His teeth protruding out as well, his laugher filled the cemetery as the two friends shared this joke that only a vampire would appreciate.

Updated 5/23/07

to be continued..

Just a note to my readers, I am so happy you have enjoyed this story so far, and soon, this story will be made into a published book. I am excited, so as soon as I know more, I will share the information... Thank you for your support.)

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