Chapter Thirty Two- Another Fight with a Vampire (Can a Girl get a Break please?)

I stared up at Patrick, recognizing those eyes of the hunter I had seen so long ago. I grinned at him, my colours spinning in my eyes violently. I stood up so my eyes were almost level with his. Patrick matched my grin.
“Well, you’re certainly faster.” He stated. I nodded, pulling out my gun, cocking it and aiming it at his head all in one fluid movement. 
“Well, thank you. It’ll be needed to plug you, you god dammed fucker.“ I snarled. Patrick’s eyes turned their vampiric white as a look that brought chills down my spine spread across his face. It was a look of eagerness, yet murderous at the same time. I pulled my gun away from his face as he leapt out at me. I knew that he was too fast for the bullet so shooting at that time would be pathetic. He was faster than Ryan too, so creation spells wouldn’t help. I continued dodging his attack, focusing solely on speed and manoeuvrability. I leapt up suddenly, turning my feet around as I landed on the roof.
“This room has zero gravity now.” I stated, the air suddenly becoming loose and flimsy. I felt my body being able to stick to the roof with ease, rather than feeling as if I was going to fall onto the ground. Patrick suddenly began to float upwards towards me, confused as to how to make this stop. I smirked. I had him now. I leapt out at him, my gun aimed at his head. Patrick closed his eyes for a moment, then suddenly all the zero gravity in the room disintegrated. I landed back on the ground, stumbling at first, then relaxed as I regained my balance. I looked up at Patrick, confused.
“How did you do that?” I asked. Patrick just grinned.
“I told you. I’m part Talking.” He stated. I thought for a moment, staring at my shoes. I smirked, taking my shoes off as I began floating again.
“No you aren’t. not anymore. You just used your telekinesis to try and make it seem like you are.” I said. I looked around the room.
“No more zero gravity. Allow my feet to stick to the ground again if you please.” I said calmly. I felt the air in the room grow heavier as I floated downwards. Patrick glared at me.
“I am a Talking. I can control it. A Talking vampire is more powerful than you!” He growled, charging towards me. I shook my head as he gripped my shirt.
“No… its really not. You’re actually weaker because of your obsession with being someone like me…” I panted, grinning. A look of insanity crossed Patrick’s face as he tossed me into the wall. I felt my bones healing as I pushed myself back up. My glamour disintegrated as I walked towards Patrick. Patrick grinned wildly as the binds burst up from the ground, encircling my wrists and ankles. They pulled me towards the ground, pinning me there. Patrick laughed manically as he ran over.
“Look, look! You’re so weak that you can be stopped by ribbon! I can’t be stopped by ribbon. No I can’t! I can’t!” He cried. I sighed, feeling the ribbons beginning to take away my strength.
“P-Patrick…” I muttered. Patrick grinned as he bent down to look at me.
“Yes?” He asked, still laughing. I cringed as I felt a sharp pain from the binds.
“You are weak. You use cheap shots to try to hurt me.” I stated. Patrick glared at me.
“Fine. Lets fight this fairly. One on one.” He stated, removing the binds. I stood up calmly.
“Thank you. Now, I hope you don’t expect me to-” I started, but Patrick had already begun. I leapt out of the way of his attack, sliding under his legs quickly. I glanced at my watch. The hour was almost up. Reinforcements would be here soon, which meant I would have to deal with Patrick quickly. I looked around, trying to think of something to defend myself with. I suddenly got an idea as blue, green, red and brown spots appeared in my eyes. I held up one hand, my eyes turning red.
“Burn! Incinerate!” I commanded. Fire burst up around Patrick, but Patrick simply ran through it. My eyes turned green.
“Wind, push the enemy back.” I ordered. Patrick lifted his arms above his face, blocking that attack as well. My eyes turned blue.
“Drown the enemy and increase the pressure” I ordered. A bubble of water formed around Patrick, but Patrick quickly blew it up. I gritted my teeth as my eyes turned brown.
“Trip the enemy and pin him to the ground” I ordered. Several vines reached up through the floor boards, wrapping around Patrick. But Patrick pulled through them. He was now at my throat, gripping it tightly.
“I… I…” I started. I was all out of ideas. I couldn’t think of anything. Patrick grinned at me.
“I told you that you were weak” he snarled. I heard a gun cocking as I saw Josh behind him, the barrel of the gun pressed against Patrick’s head.
“Let her go.” He snarled. I cringed as Patrick held on tighter.
“J-Josh… I thought you were-” I coughed but Josh shook his head.
“I went out for a bit. Patrick made it seem like he was more competent than he is.” He stated. Patrick grinned, pressing me against his body and pointing one of his vampiric claws at my throat.
“Take one more step and I’ll slit her throat, Josh. You know that a Talking will die if you behead her.” Patrick growled. Josh lowered the gun slowly, maintaining eye contact with me. 
“You’d know that better than I would seeing as how it was your master who lead the group that murdered the Talking. I believe you did your fair share yourself, right?” He asked. I closed my eyes. Great. I was the damsel in distress once again, and my captor helped out in killing my species. I looked up at Josh.
“Josh I’m sorry, I-” I started, but Patrick just pressed his nail against my throat. I knew how sharp his bag lady nails were. I cringed as I swallowed hard. Patrick grinned.
“Now. Sit down Mr. Ramsay.” He ordered. Josh stared at him.
“No.” He growled. Patrick looked down at me, then leaned in carefully.
“I wonder how you’d feel if your girlfriend was turned into one of my children.” He whispered, his breath tickling my neck. I looked up at Josh, pleading for him to run with my eyes. But Josh did as he was told. He sat down in the chair Patrick had summoned. Patrick smirked.
“It’s funny how weak you can be once you find someone you care about.” Patrick muttered. I just stared over at Josh. Josh looked up at Patrick, his eyes narrowing.
“What do you want?” He asked, placing the gun on the arm of the chair in case Patrick decided to try something. Patrick shrugged.
“I just want power. It’s the same thing all of us want.” He stated. Josh shook his head.
“I don’t.” He said calmly. Patrick laughed at him as I eyed Josh’s gun. I struggled a bit, but Patrick maintained his grip.
“Shush, shush. My, she’s a feisty one isn’t she?” Patrick asked, laughing. Josh glared at him.
“Let her go.” He growled angrily. Patrick just grinned.
“Or you’ll do what? I have her now. All I need to do is bite her and she’s mine for eternity.” Patrick stated. I closed my eyes, preparing myself.
“Josh. When you’re a vampire, do your male organs still work?” I asked. Josh raised an eyebrow.
“Taya, I hardly think that this is the time to be talking about sex, but if you wanna then I’m cool with that.” He teased, a smile spreading across his face. I rolled my eyes, glad for once that I was short as I hit Patrick in the balls. He winced in pain as he stumbled backwards, letting me go momentarily. I grabbed the gun and spun around, cocking it as I pressed it against Patrick’s forehead. Patrick looked up at me in fear, but I pulled the trigger. Patrick’s body fell to the ground with a hideous thud. His body disintegrated and turned into ash, blowing away in the non-existent wind silently. I turned around to look at Josh, still sitting in the chair.
“I told you, not until we’re married.” I said calmly, holding up my finger which had no ring on it. Josh sighed.
“That sucks because your move back there? That totally turned me on.” He stated. I smirked, walking back to him.
“Maybe I should be a mercenary like you?” I suggested. Josh grinned, standing up to stare into my eyes.
“Not in your life.” he said, shooting down my suggestion. I smirked as he picked me up and leapt back out the trap door. When we exited, a group of vampires stood around us. My squad had left, mainly because I had told them to. I stared at the reinforcements as their leader stepped forward. My jaw dropped down as I recognized him.
“Evan?” I asked. Evan’s eyes flickered red as he smirked.
“Taylor. Fancy seeing you here… Oh and Josh. I haven’t seen you since I, well I murdered your parents.” He stated. Josh started forward, but I placed a hand on his chest, pushing him back. I glared at Evan.
“Are you the one who created Patrick and sent him after us?” I asked. Evan shrugged.
“Well what if I am?” He asked. I rolled my eyes, aiming my gun at him.
“Well, then I’m going to have to blow your brains out.” I snarled. Josh moaned behind me.
“Babe, stop it. You’re becoming to sexy when you do that.” He whimpered. I sighed.
“If you want any, you know what you have to do.” I stated. Josh sighed, slipping a diamond ring onto my finger.
“Fine. You totally ruined the surprise though.” He muttered. I spun around.
“You’re proposing to me… when we’re about to get mauled by…” I turned around to count, “About fifty vampires including what looks to be like the daddy vampire that it turns out I’ve known since high school?” I asked. Josh shrugged calmly.
“Seems like a good time to me.” He stated. Evan sighed.
“Are you done?” He asked. I nodded.
“Sorry. We’re done.” I stated. Evan nodded.
“Well, so are we. We just wanted to see who’d win the fight. Toodle loo. We‘ll come back for you later though, when we feel like it” He said calmly, turning away. The group of vampires walked off, following their leader. I paused, looking back at Josh, then looked back to the vampires as they filed out. I stood their in thought before turning back to Josh.
“So, we get to go home?” I asked. Josh shrugged as he nodded.
“Seems so.” He stated. I grinned as he stepped forward, grabbing my hand. Josh and I began the long walk home, prepared for our infinite struggle for our life. Josh suddenly paused.
“What have I gotten myself into?” He asked. I grinned.
“I don’t know. I am pretty high maintenance. Good luck.” I teased. Josh smirked.
“You know what? I don’t care how high maintenance you say you are. We’ll be together forever, babe.” He stated. I laughed happily.
“You promise?” I asked. Josh grinned, pulling me towards him as he dipped me down in the moonlight.
“Cross my heart and hope to die.” He stated, leaning in and kissing my lips passionately.

Chapter Thirty One- Fight Three (Taya vs Pete)

I entered the next room, just a few feet away, prepared this time. I held up my gun, prepared for anything that would jump out at me. I searched the normal looking bedroom, kind of surprised that I was in a bedroom. I really had only seen one bedroom since I had entered this house other than this one. I heard the door shut behind me. I turned around to see Pete standing there, his eyes turning a golden yellow. I smirked, aiming my gun at him, threatening him if he tried to attack.
“Evening, doc.” I said calmly. Pete smirked, remembering what had happened all those years ago. He walked forward calmly and gracefully, his eyes remaining their contact all the while. I paced to the side silently, the floor boards groaning and moaning under my feet. Pete followed, maintaining the six foot distance between us. He held up one hand.
“I just want to talk for a bit.” Pete stated. I raised an eyebrow.
“So you want me to put down the gun?” I asked. Pete nodded slowly, turning to walk in the other direction. My feet moved as my eyes continued to watch him.
“Why wont you?” He asked. I rolled my eyes.
“Well, lets see. You did try to kidnap me, and force me onto your side. You hunted me down and hurt my friends, and now you’ve kidnapped my boyfriend. Why would I trust you?” I asked. Pete laughed as he held up his other hand.
“I promise not to attack.” He stated. I sighed.
“Yeah, and how am I supposed to trust your word?” I asked. Pete shrugged.
“I’m a doctor?” He responded. I raised an eyebrow.
“Yeah. A lying doctor that’s only our for his own good.” I stated. Pete rolled his eyes, placing one hand over his chest.
“I swear on my eternally damned life that I will not touch a hair on your body.” He stated, his eyes turning from their vampiric yellow to their normal brown. I sighed, placing the gun down.
“Fine. What do you want?” I asked. Pete sat down in the chair calmly, his eyes not moving from mine. He beckoned for me to sit down in the other chair, just a few feet away from him.
“As I stated before, I just want to talk” He said, his voice smooth. I sat down cautiously, still staring at him. He simply folded one leg over the other as he placed his hands on the arms of the chair.
“So why don’t you want to become an immortal?” He asked. I raised an eyebrow.
“I already am an immortal.” I stated. Pete nodded.
“Ah yes, that’s right. Well, let me rephrase that. Why don’t you want to become a more powerful immortal? A soon to be rank A Talking would make a magnificent vampire.” He stated. I shook my head.
“I’d lose who I was. I kind of like being a Talking.” I said calmly. Pete shook his head in response.
“No, you wouldn’t. look at Patrick. He’s a vampire and a talking.” Pete stated. I stood up slowly.
“No. Patrick is just a vampire with some added abilities. He will never be considered as powerful as one of us again.” I said calmly. Pete followed my lead, stepping towards me.
“How do you know this?” He asked. I shrugged.
“Well, my spirits tell me this.” I stated simply. Pete nodded calmly as he looked away for a moment, then regained eye contact as the psychotic yellow engulfed his eyes.
“Well, do your spirits tell you that this will be the last time you walk the earth?” He asked, a look of anger crossing his face. I took a step back, dodging his first attack as a grin spread across my face.
“Every day.” I stated. Pete let out a loud yowl as he charged. I leapt up, placing a hand on his back and leaping over him gracefully. When I landed on the ground, I did a cartwheel, picking up my gun and aiming it at him.
“Stand down, leech.” I growled. Pete let out a low growl as he stared into my eyes, then looked down at the barrel. I cocked the gun carefully, so that he would know I was serious.
“You certainly aren’t that innocent sixteen year old anymore, are you?” He asked, grinning. I smirked.
“No. And I’ll unload a clip into you if you move an inch.” I stated. Pete breathed out heavily, eyeing the barrel again. He glanced at my finger, ready to pull the trigger at any moment. Pete sighed, opening his arms as he stepped forward.
“Then unload it, Talking. Stay true to your word.” He snarled. I shook my head.
“Pete, are you committing suicide?” I growled. Pete smirked, staring into my eyes as his entire eye became engulfed in yellow. He grinned, a strange growl escaping his throat. 
“It wouldn’t be the first time one of us attempted to, would it?” He asked. I gritted my teeth.
“You bastard!” I snarled, remembering that day in the forest. I felt my finger press down onto the trigger, then nothing as the world around me turned black. When I came to a few moments later, there was no sign that someone had been in the room except for ashes and the scent of death. I looked down at the ashes, sighing as I rubbed my head. I looked around at the furniture. Holes were in everything. I placed my gun back into my belt, feeling a bit unsure of what to do as I realized that I didn’t have very many bullets left.
“Fuck.” I stated, heading onward to Patrick. I dashed out of the door and down the hall, entering the main room again. I sighed.
“Where’s that spot again- oh. Here it is.” I said calmly as the floor opened beneath me, allowing me to fall through. Here we go again.

Chapter Thirty- Fight Two (Taya vs. Joe)

I wandered down the hall, unsure of what room to try next. It was like a maze. A really dumb one that wouldn’t let me through. I looked around, trying to sense something. Anything. I looked around, suddenly hearing a noise. I stared at the door where the noise had come from, gripping the handle tightly. I burst into the room, spotting a group of humans huddled in the corner, looking scared. I dashed over, noticing that they had been cuffed.
“What’s wrong? What happened to you?” I asked. One of them, a female, spoke up.
“They… they hunt us… and farm us… thank god someone set us free.” She whimpered. I nodded.
“Okay, you need to tell me. Is there a vampire in here?” I asked. Another one spoke up.
“The man behind you is.” the human stated, I spun around, finding myself face to face with a red-eyed vampire that I had learned to be Joe. I looked back at the humans.
“Okay, get out now!” I ordered as Joe hit me down. The humans quickly ran out into the hallway, trying to find their way out. I landed on my hands and knees as he stepped towards me.
“You should have joined us. You could have had ultimate power.” Joe said as he reached for the back of my neck. I cringed as he pulled me upwards, making me level with him. He pushed me onto a wall, strapping my hands and feet down onto it. I glared at him.
“I don’t need your power.” I spat. Joe sighed, looking up.
“No, but I’m going to make you wish you had said yes.” He stated, pulling a cloth off of a table to reveal many pieces of torture equipment. I cringed. Shit. I sighed, looking over at him.
“Burn the ene-mph!” I started, but he quickly tied a gag around my mouth.
“Shhh, shhh now. No need to over exhaust yourself to try and attack me. You just went through so much to kill Andy and I’m sure that you deserve a much needed break. Now, let Joseph take care of you.” He muttered, patting the side of my face then searching through the equipment fondly. I saw the woman from earlier sneaking in past him. She moved around behind me, then began cutting the ropes. As soon as one of my hands were free, I removed the gag.
“What are you doing here?” I hissed. I glanced up at Joe, making sure he was still mesmerized by his many pieces of torture equipment. The woman shrugged.
“You saved me, now I’ll save you. After all, we’re both human.” She stated. I shook my head.
“I’m not.” I stated, jumping down silently. The woman stared at me confused.
“But you look-” She started, but I removed the glamour before she could continue.
“I only look human, but I’m actually more sought out than humans to vampires. I’m called a Talking because I can create magic by saying what I want and- Watch out!” I shouted, pushing her down and turning out of the way. Joe glared at us as his knife just grazed my cheek. It quickly healed as a bit of silver blood dripped from it. Now that I was in my talking form, the colour of my blood changed too. Joe glared at me.
“Well, it seems the livestock helped you escape… but that wont happen again and- my god… what is that scent?” He asked, then eyed the drop of silver blood on my shirt. His mouth began to water.
“Talking blood… something I haven’t tasted… in so long…” He muttered. I stepped backwards, suddenly sensing fear. Now he wanted to eat me. I glanced at his equipment on the table, then back to him.
“May you be killed by your own equipment.” I stated as the table suddenly flipped forward. His body was pierced by the blades on his table, and even the dull items. He screamed in agony, but I put an end to it as I aimed my gun and shot him straight through the head. I looked down at the woman, trembling in fear. I passed her the gun.
“This is for self defence. I have another one, but if a vampire attacks you, this will kill it.” I stated. The woman nodded slowly. I nodded back then quickly ran out.
“Next please!” I called out to nothing.

Chapter Twenty Nine- Fight One (Taya vs. Andy)

I searched the darkness, searching for my attacker, but he was no where to be found. I finally found him as his hand ran into my face. I cringed as I fell over, then pushed myself back up. I swung out randomly into the darkness, but I still couldn’t hit the attacker. He hit me again, this time knocking me over from my legs. I gritted my teeth as I fell back, the wind being knocked out from my lungs. As I was sitting back up, trying to get the air back into my lungs, he struck me again. I cringed as I laid on the ground, unsure of what to do. I didn’t know where the lights were, and I couldn’t command them on at the rate I was being attacked. I was going to die here. I glared at the air.
“Josh, you bastard. I told you that we were going to be killed if we got back together!” I screamed to nothing. I closed my eyes, feeling myself let go.
“You did… but you won’t die. I promise. Now, get back up and think logically instead of being the wimpy sixteen year old you were when you were last here.” Josh’s voice rang through my mind. I opened my eyes suddenly, gaining my breath back. I stood up, confident. I wasn’t sure how I was able to after all the hits I had taken, but I did. I was struck again, this time they drew blood. I licked the corner of my mouth, tasting the liquid red iron flavoured fluid. I glared into the darkness, a spots of black beginning to form in my eyes. I looked around, suddenly able to see. I then spotted him. I grinned, leaping out at him. Andy dodged my attack, turning around to try to hit me again. I turned around, grabbing his fist before he could hit me. I gritted my teeth as both of our hands shook from trying to push the other away. Andy stared at me, an unreadable expression crossing his pure midnight black eyes as I pushed myself forward. I cringed as I felt strength pushing up inside of me, then pushed myself forward. Andy’s feet slid as I slammed him into the wall. I watched his body fall down against the wall as his back broke into a million little pieces. He fell over, unable to move. I sought my chance. I held up one hand, grinning at him as I did so.
“A sword, if you will. And make it nice.” I ordered, my ears perking up. A large claymore suddenly appeared in my hand. I smirked as I examined its engravings and designs. It certainly was beautiful, but it wasn’t for me. I bent down, staring into Andy’s eyes.
“Hey, is this sword good enough to stab you through? I don’t know. I think its lovely. What do you think?” I asked, taunting him. Andy snarled at me, his eyes searching mine. I sighed, pulling the sword up.
“You know, if you had just left us alone, this wouldn’t be happening.” I stated. And before Andy could heal his back and defend himself, I stabbed him through the stomach, pinning him to the ground. Blood spilt from the corners of his mouth as he began to convulse, unable to heal his back completely. If you didn’t know, when a vampire or wolf can’t heal, their body goes insane until it can. Which is quite painful, in actuality. I’ve had it happen to Josh. I pushed my hair back, bending down to make myself level with him.
“Where’s Josh?” I asked. He grinned, his body shaking violently.
“I-I’ll never tell you… you’ll both die I-in he-e-ere.” He stammered, his voice unable to maintain level. I sighed, standing back up.
“You didn’t answer the question. You’d better hope someone finds you soon, though. If your body focuses too much on trying to heal, it will take away all your energy and you’ll die. Now, you asshole. I’ll see you in hell.” I snarled, eyeing a gas pipe in the wall. I aimed my gun, shooting the pipe. I exited the room as the pipe exploded in the room. I heard Andy’s cried of agony as I left the room, preparing myself for the next battle.
“They’ve planned this all out.” I muttered to myself.

Chapter Twenty Eight- Reinforcements for Team Talking

I burst into the apartment, searching the area for Josh. But he was no where to be found. I checked every room that I could think of, but there was no sign of him.
“Josh! If you don’t come out now, I’ll murder you in your sleep and you’ll never get some!” I shouted. But there was no sign of him. I cringed as I thought about what they might be doing to him. I’m sure they wouldn’t hurt him… then again Josh would probably get hurt for trying to attack his captors every second he could… I ran into the kitchen, the one place I hadn’t looked yet, calling his name. As I turned to the fridge, I saw a single note on it, attached by a magnet.

Hey babe.

Man, I really suck at this, huh? Well, you’ve probably heard that I’ve been kidnapped by now… well I’m currently under attack… I’m in the kitchen writing you this so that you know where I am. Please, don’t come after me and if you need any help to defend yourself, call Ryan. His number’s in the phone book under R for Reynolds.

Josh

PS. When I get out of this, you so have to sex me.

I fell back against the wall, pushing my hair back. Leave it to Josh to leave a note like that. I stared at the phone, thinking whether or not I should call them. I sighed. Everyone had been living peacefully for years… Well, now that Patrick was back I was sure that would change, but for now, things were peaceful. I sighed. There was one person I needed to call for sure. I picked up the phone, dialling Ryan’s cell phone.
“Hello?” He asked.
“Hey, its Taylor. I need to know where Josh keeps his guns.” I stated. There was a pause on the other line.
“What’s happened to Josh?” Ryan asked suddenly. 
“Nothing” I responded, “I just want to know.”
“Taylor. They wont let you in unless you’re an authorized personal. Just… tell me what’s happened to him… please…” He muttered. I sighed.
“He was taken by Patrick. I’m storming the mansion tonight alone.” I stated. 
“That’s suicide! You can’t do that alone. Even Josh had to call in help. Here, I’ll meet you there, okay?” He asked. I shook my head quickly.
“No, you have to stay with Katie. If she lost you, I know she’d be devastated. So please. If you want to help, stay with her.” I stated. Ryan sighed.
“Roger. The building is the same building that you and Katie work at only it’s in the basement. Tell them that Josh Ramsay is in trouble and Ryan Reynolds sent you. If you stutter or fuck it up in any way, you’re screwed. Also say your name, and they’ll let you through. You have no idea how much Josh has talked about you.” Ryan stated. I smiled a bit, nodding.
“Thanks Ryan. Have a good evening” I said calmly.
“You too Taylor. Good luck.” He said. I hung up the phone, grabbing my jacket and car keys. I drove down to my work place, walking straight for the front counter. I stared down at the receptionist.
“Hi. My name is Taylor Marie Vandenberg. Ryan Reynolds sent me because Josh Ramsay is in trouble and-” I started, but the receptionist interrupted me.
“Yes, I know who you are. Josh talked about you until I could pick you out of a crowd when I was walking down town. It’s just through that door. Oh, and they’re waiting for you.” She stated. I cast her a glance, confused. Who was waiting for me? I walked down into the basement cautiously, turning on the light. I stared at the now fourty were wolves and vampires that stood in front of me. My jaw dropped down in shock.
“Y-you’re all here? How did you-” I started, but realized what had happened as I saw Ryan standing there with Katie. Cody smirked, stepping forward as he jabbed me in the head.
“You honestly think we’d let you storm a castle by yourself? You’re too small to take on that. Sheesh” He teased. I stuck my tongue out at him, feeling as if I were in grade eleven again. I sighed, looking around.
“So, does everyone have a gun?” I asked, my eyes meeting Ryan’s. Ryan nodded.
“We’re here at your command.” He stated. I nodded.
“Okay. Go until you get bored. Leave the mansion within an hour of arriving, so that you’re gone before the reinforcements come. If I’m not back in an hour, leave without me because it probably means I died. It’s been a pleasure working with you guys. Have a good night” I stated. The group let out their war cries as I stepped forward, grabbing a pair of dual mini machine guns then headed out. Tonight, the old vampires’ blood would rain from the sky. The security guard just nodded at me calmly.
“You know, that speech was almost exactly the same as the last guy who chose to storm the castle.” He stated. I stared at him for a moment, then smiled and walked forward. Time to save my boyfriend from certain death.

I stepped onto the landscape, watching the first wave of vampires step out onto the grass in front of us. I grinned as I raised my hands, the others raising their anti-vampire weapons.
“Go crazy!” I shouted. I heard the guns banging as they let out their clips into the bastards that tried to attack. I continued onward, using my abilities to manoeuvre around the bullets. I kicked down the front door.
“Okay, you mother fucking leeches. Where is he?” I snarled. I stared forward at Mara who stood there, glaring at me. She let out a high pitched screech as she lunged forward, attempting to strike me. I gritted my teeth, dodging the attack.
“Sorry, Mara. I’m not here for you.” I stated, running onward. She’d be dealt with soon anyways. My team wasn’t too far behind. I continued running until I found myself in the main room. I froze as I entered. I remembered the trap door that was in there… I carefully walked around the room, trying to remember where it was exactly. I made it to the other side of the room gracefully, entering the hallway. I entered the first room, but it was complete darkness. I looked around, trying to see something within the darkness. Nothing. I turned around to exit the room, but the door quickly shut behind me. I held my breath. A trap.

Chapter Twenty Seven- A Different New Years

“Hey, Taya! Glad you could come to the office New Years party!” a co worker called. I smiled, nodding towards them in my rib-high skirt and blouse combo, my hair tied back into a tight ponytail for an added measure.
“Well, It’s not like I have anything better to do. You know, this’ll be my twenty fifth New Years alone?” I asked, looking glum before my mouth twisted into a smile, “I guess that makes me sound a little pathetic, doesn’t it?” 
The co-worker laughed as they went off to mingle. I sighed, picking up a glass of champagne and sipping it. Katie walked up to me. We had gotten a job together since we had graduated, and she of course came with her boyfriend, Ryan. I smiled at her as she eyed my alcoholic beverage.
“So much for straight edge.” She teased. I rolled my eyes.
“You know what? I’m single, and you’re not. And it’s New Years. Leave me in my pit of self esteem issues.” I stated. Katie laughed, hugging me tightly.
“Don’t worry. You’ll find someone that… shares your specialty.” She said. I knew what she was referring to. Immortality. It was kind of necessary for a boyfriend… You know, I didn’t want them dying on me. Especially when I hadn‘t aged since my previous birthday one bit. Now that would look weird when my boyfriend was eighty and I was still twenty five. I glanced at the clock. Just one more hour of this stupid little party and I was free. I sighed, staring out at the familiar dome. That might have been why I picked this office to work at. I would often meet Brendon, John and Spencer for dinner. Of course, I couldn’t have dinner with Ryan. I had killed him when I was sixteen. I felt pretty lucky that I hadn’t been hunted since then. But something told me that there was more to come soon. After all, I had seen myself fighting Patrick again in a vision. And there was still snow out when it happened. I sat in my desk quietly, sipping my alcoholic beverage quietly. I began pushing myself around in the small office chair, trying to entertain myself while I watched everyone mingle. I never understood that word. Mingle. It sounded stupid, like it’s cousin was jingle. I sighed as that thought crossed my mind. Perhaps I was getting drunk. It had been my fifth drink that evening. I sighed, placing the glass back down. 
“Stupid holidays.” I muttered, leaning back. My eyes began to close as I felt sleepy. I slowly began to drift off. I saw Josh running towards me in my dream. I could hear pain and anguish coming and I felt sorrow as I heard the tortured cries of my friends. Was that what was next to come? I tried to figure out what was going on, but my thoughts were suddenly ceased by a voice calling out “One minute till midnight!”
“I don’t give a shit…” I muttered to myself. I felt someone touch my shoulder. I looked up quickly.
“What do you want- Josh?” I asked, unbelieving of who I was seeing before me. Josh stared down at me, panting heavily. He had slicked back his hair and was wearing a dress shirt and pants. He definitely looked like he belonged.
“I told you I’d hunt you down.” He said softly. I stood up, staring at him.
“Josh, I told you. I don’t want to see you anymore…” I said softly. Josh nodded.
“I know you did. But I didn‘t listen. Look. I snuck in here in this outfit and everything. Do you know how uncomfortable I am? Very!” He stated. I shook my head.
“Thirty seconds to midnight!” Someone called out again.
“Josh. I meant it. I had a vision. Our result is pain anguish and sorrow.” I said sadly. Josh shook his head.
“We’ll change it.” He stated.
“Ten seconds”
“Josh, I can’t.” I protested.
“Nine”
“Yes you can.” He said, stubbornly.
“Eight”
“No I can’t… I don’t want you.” I lied. 
“Six”
“Yes you do. Stop lying.” Josh said, seeing through the lie.
“Five.”
“Josh… Please… you’re making this harder on me” I whimpered.
“Four”
“I don’t care.” Josh stated.
“Three”
“J-Josh I-” I stammered, trying to protest. Josh sighed, pulling me forward.
“Two”
“Just… Shut up and kiss me.” He ordered.
“One”
I felt him press his lips against mine as the streamers burst out and people began blowing on their horns. I smiled. I felt complete again. Josh lifted me up onto my desk, deepening the kiss. I paused for a moment.
“You realize that we’re probably going to be brutally murdered for this…” I whispered. He nodded.
“I know.” He breathed, then leaned forward for another kiss. I placed a finger on his lips.
“Wait.” I ordered. He smirked, knowing that I couldn’t control him, but he did as I said. I reached up, placing my fingers in his bangs and messing them up so that they were back to their normal emo style. Josh smiled, pulling out my hair scrunchy and played with my hair so that it too was back to normal. He stared at my now much longer hair in awe.
“Holy crap its long!” He stated. I nodded.
“I know.” I said. Josh nodded.
“No seriously! How long did it take you? Like twenty million years?” He asked. I sighed, staring straight into his eyes.
“Hey. Shut up and kiss me.” I teased. Josh grinned.
“As you command.” He said, leaning forward again


“Josh! Where do you want me to put this?” I called out. Josh shrugged, looking at the box of my stuff I had brought in from the couch he was sitting on. He looked back up at me.
“How about you put it down so that we can sex?” He asked. I rolled my eyes.
“You’re almost as bad as a werewolf” I stated. Josh smirked.
“No, I can be worse. I’ve had nine years to think lusty thoughts about you” He stated. I cringed, looking over at him.
“You know, that’s probably the worst thing you could say to me right now.” I said. Josh sighed, stepping towards me.
“Yeah I know. But that’s okay if I say ‘hey babe, wanna use my credit card to go shopping?’” He said. I raised an eyebrow, stepping towards him.
“Can I?” I asked. Josh let out a deep sigh as he looked at the ceiling, shoving his hands in his pockets.
“I don’t know. Can you pick up some sexy lingerie while you’re there?” He asked. I smirked, leaning in towards him.
“I might be able to pick up something. But you won’t be able to see it until we get married.” I said calmly, turning away as I walked towards the door. Josh moaned.
“Oh come on. I knew there was a catch. I knew it!” He growled as I continued walking. I raised an eyebrow.
“Sorry babe. I’m a good girl” I said, opening the door “Oh and I’m going shopping with my credit card.”
I exited the house happily, feeling happy. I was with Josh again, and for now things were pretty peaceful. I placed my hands in my pockets, whistling as I walked down the hallway of the apartment building. I made my way to the mall, ready to shop for… what ever it was I wanted. I walked down the street until I reached the large shopping center. I entered it calmly, walking through. I had always loved the mall. It was so large, and there were so many stores there. I continued walking down the way quietly, making my way to the food court. I had recently acquired a bad addiction to Chinese food, and now I was killing my craving. I ordered a two item plate with chow mien, then sat down calmly and began eating. I heard someone sit down next to me as I took a sip of my root beer.
“Don’t try to run.” a voice ordered. I felt my blood run cold as I recognized it as Pete’s. I looked up at him, leaning back into my chair. I let out a deep sigh slowly.
“Petey! How’s life, hmm? It really has been too long. Now do tell, how’s Patrick been since Josh crushed his plans and turned them into yucky bad plan dust?” I asked, taunting Pete. Pete glared at me, leaning forward.
“Shut your mouth. You don’t have your boyfriend with you right now, and by what I’ve heard, you still haven’t gotten to rank A since you killed Ryan.” Pete stated. I shrugged.
“I try not to use my powers.” I explained simply. Pete shook his head.
“Are you sure that’s the reason? Or is it simply that you just don’t have the ability to?” He asked. I rolled my eyes, my eyes turning into their talking form.
“Pete, I’m the 100th. I’m the finale. See my eyes? These are the abilities that I can unlock, when I want to. Note how many colours there are? Now. Go home and play with your master” I teased. Pete stared at my eyes, then shook his head.
“You’ve become a smart ass, hmm? Interesting. Patrick will have fun with you now that you’re no longer that innocent, annoying little girl.” He stated. I raised an eyebrow at Pete.
“So you’re going to kidnap me, by yourself, in a public place? Ha. Good luck.” I stated. Pete sighed, standing up as a grin spread across his face as he stared past me.
“Oh, he’s not by himself. And this time we’ve got… leverage.” an all to familiar voice hissed in my ear. I turned around to face Patrick.
“If you touch him I swear I’ll-” I started, but was interrupted by him.
“You’ll what? Kill me? You’ve said that too many times. Stay true to your word. Now, if you want your boyfriend back, come to the mansion at sunset. If you don’t come by sunrise, you’ll never see him again.” Patrick snarled. I stared at him, shocked at what was going on. They had actually captured Josh… I gritted my teeth. They were going to pay for that. I glared as I dashed out of the mall, trying to think up a plan to murder the shits that were ruining my life.

Chapter Twenty Six- Interviews re-open Old Wounds

“So you’ve been missing for how long?” The officer asked, his cap low on his face. I sighed, getting comfortable in the seat.
“Is it normal for me not to be able to see your face?” I asked.
“That’s not something you need to be concerned about. Now. How long?” He repeated.
“Um, almost a month.” I said. The officer nodded.
“Right, and who were your captors?” He asked. I shrugged.
“Beats me. They weren’t stupid. I was blindfolded most of the time.” I lied confidently. The officer sighed.
“Can you describe their voice?” He asked. I nodded.
“Manly. Very manly.” I retorted. The officer frowned.
“It almost seems as if you want to protect your captors.” He growled. I shrugged, leaning forward.
“They let me go, didn’t they? Why should they be arrested?” I asked. The officer shrugged.
“I don’t know. Because they kidnapped you in the first place?” He asked. I sighed, leaning back into my chair.
“I went to the hospital on November twenty-ninth because I landed on a mirror and the shards became stuck in my skin. When they were removed, I stayed in the hospital over night. I became paranoid, and someone came in to talk to me. I didn’t see them though. They asked me if I felt safe. I told them I didn’t. So they took me away from the hospital. I lived with them and was introduced to a world I never thought existed. I helped some of them get over their pasts and move on. They ditched their old ways and are now civil members of… society. I love them to death even to this day for helping me when one of them became corrupted and insane, and trapped me in a room. I was frightened when I couldn’t escape, but someone helped me get out. I was then kidnapped by another group, then escaped with the help of… of a guy… He saved me and I left him back in his apartment. I returned home with the help of someone else I knew and I’ve been happily at home ever since.” I explained. The officer nodded. I sighed, standing up.
“And Ryan, next time if you wanted to use a surprise attack, I think it’d be best if you actually wrote my story down or put a tape in that recorder.” I stated. Ryan smirked, taking his hat off. He stared at me as he stood up as well.
“Well, did you think I was going to let you go that easily?” He asked. I sighed, rubbing the back of my head.
“You know, I was seriously hoping you would.” I stated. Ryan glared at me.
“You’re being a smart ass.” He growled. I smirked.
“What can I say? Josh kind of rubbed off on me.” I stated, my glamour fading away. Ryan smirked as he lunged towards me. I glared at him, holding up one hand.
“Stop the enemy, pin him to the ground.” I ordered. Ryan growled as his body suddenly collapsed and his arms and legs were pinned to the ground by an invisible force. I sighed, walking around him.
“Ryan. Leave me alone. I know I apparently look like your ex lover, but you need to realize that I’m not her. I’m Taylor Marie Vandenberg.” I said. Ryan gritted his teeth.
“But you are her… You’re Elizabeth… Elizabeth Jane Wielder.” He moaned. I shook my head.
“No. I’m Taylor. And the sooner you realize that, the sooner we can all move along. Don’t make me kill you Ryan.” I stated. Ryan gritted his teeth again, leaping up. His eyes turned their vampiric colour as he dashed out at me. I shook my head.
“Ryan… Don’t make me do it…” I muttered. Ryan didn’t stop. I sighed.
“bullet. Ultra violent type. Surround him.” I ordered. About a million bullets hung in the air, all surrounding Ryan. He clawed at the wall, growing angrily. I shook my head.
“I’m sorry Ryan, but you need to calm down… and if the only way you can calm down is ending up with your Elizabeth, then so be it. I’m sorry.” I said calmly, lifting my fingers up.
“Bang.”

I exited the room quietly. No one had heard the quarrel inside. I looked up at Spencer who stood by the door quietly.
“Thanks for the heads up. I’m sorry, but you’ve got some cleaning up to do.” I stated. Spencer nodded, turning away and entering the room. I walked back outside, sighing as I stared out into the sky.
“New years is tomorrow, isn’t it? Weird… It’ll be the sixteenth new years that I’ve been single…” I muttered.

Chapter Twenty Five- The Show Must Go On

“You know that we will never be free.” 
Josh looked up at me, relaxing when I exited my bedroom the next morning and these words escaped my mouth. Josh stood up, stepping towards me.
“It’s great that you’re up… I was really worried.” He said, holding me tightly. I sighed. It felt to be with him and all… but he wasn’t listening to me. I held his shoulders silently, staring up into his eyes intently.
“Josh. You aren’t listening to me.” I stated. Josh nodded, reaching out for me again.
“I am, I am babe.” He protested. I raised an eyebrow, my arms folding across my chest.
“What did I just say?” I asked. Josh sighed.
“Okay… I’m sorry. I was just really worried about you…” He said quietly. I nodded.
“I know… I’m sorry too. But I want you to realize this. We will never be free.” I stated. Josh stared at me, his natural blue eyes searching mine. He sighed, sitting down.
“I’ve realized that already. We’re always going to be hunted. After all, we’re Talkings. Were the most sought out species of them all because of what we can do. Together” He said, then pulled me into his lap, “But I don’t care if we’re always going to be hunted. I love you. And if that means waking up every morning in fear that there’s going to be a knife at my throat then fine. Bring it.”
I sighed, pulling away from him. I held my head in my hands as I felt the pain of what needed to be done stinging at my heart. I turned back up to face him.
“But… I do care. I don’t want you to wake up every morning in fear that there’s going to be a knife at your throat… if we’re apart… then our scent is weaker and almost unrecognizable. If we’re apart-” I started, but Josh was soon in front of me, his finger to my lips.
“If we’re apart then I’ll kill myself” He said, a bit too chipper. I stared at him, shaking my head as tears began stinging my eyes.
“Josh! I’m serious! I don’t want you to be hurt. I want you to be free! And if that means I have to leave to allow you that freedom, then so be it!” I shouted. Josh sighed, his face looking pained.
“You know what? I’m serious too. I’m serious when I say I’ll hunt you forever if you leave!” He shouted back at me. I shook my head, turning away.
“I’m sorry Josh. But don’t look for me anymore…” I muttered, exiting the room. I felt Josh reach out for me, but I just took off down the hallway of the apartment building. I ran out to the street, stopping at the bus station. I sighed, looking down at my outfit. I was still in my dress from the previous night. It then dawned on me that I had no way of getting home. Suddenly a car pulled out in front of me. Brendon poked his head out the window as he honked the horn.
“Hey, you need a ride?” He asked. I nodded, climbing into the car. Brendon looked at me, a look of concern crossing his face.
“You wanna go home?” He asked. I froze then burst out into tears as I nodded. Brendon quickly pulled out, driving back towards Delta. He knew where I wanted to go. My home. My real home. He never said a word and I was thankful for that. He just let me sit there and cry in his car. We suddenly pulled into the snow covered driveway. Brendon looked over at me, holding me tightly.
“Hey. If you need anything, you know where to find me.” Brendon stated. I nodded calmly, wiping my eyes.
“Thank you Brendon… Merry Christmas…” I said, my voice soft. Brendon nodded.
“Merry Christmas, Taya.” He said, kissing the top of my head. I let go of him, slipping out onto the driveway. I glanced back at that car, staring at Brendon one more time before entering my house. I sighed, ordering my glamour back on. I knocked on the door quietly. I heard footsteps, then stared forward as the door opened. My mom stared at me in disbelief. I smiled calmly.
“Hi mom.” I said gently. My mom stepped forward, still in shock.
“A- You- I-” She stammered, then held me tightly. I hugged her back, feeling my tears fall down my cheeks again. It felt so good to be in her arms again. She pulled me inside slowly.
“So… why did you leave?” She asked. I shook my head.
“Well, to be honest, I was kidnapped at first… but then I realized that my kidnappers had a different side to them and… I don’t know… I guess I wanted to change them… And I did, all except the leader…” I stated, thinking back to Ryan. He was still out there… I smiled as my mom glared at me.
“Never do that again, okay?” She asked. I nodded.
“I’m sorry… but… I’m also, kind of… I’m kind of happier now… I’ve grown up a bit more mom.” I stated. She nodded calmly.
“But helping criminals is not the way I was hoping you’d grow up” She stated. I nodded, laughing a bit.
“I know. I didn’t expect it either… by the way, what day is it?” I asked. My mom stared at me, confused.
“You don’t know the date?” She asked. I nodded.
“Yeah, I’ve kind of been without a calendar for the past few weeks.” I stated. My mom smiled.
“It’s the twenty-fourth, sweetie.” She stated. I stared at her in awe. I had been returned to my home on Christmas eve… I smiled happily, then kissed her on the cheek. I felt so happy now. My mom sighed, staring upstairs.
“Anyways, I’d better go tell your step dad the good news… and your dad… and everyone for that matter. And you know you have to go in for an interview with the police?” She asked. I nodded.
“I know mom.” I said calmly.

Chapter Twenty Four- Sleeping Beauty (Josh's POV)

I felt the excitement take over me as we burst through the front doors. A few vampires dashed out for a resistance, but were soon silenced by the others. I smirked as I watched their bodies die before me.
“Today we discard our old ways.” I muttered, stepping forward, “And to do that, I have to kill the man who destroyed my life.”
I looked back at the others who stood behind me, waiting for orders.
“Go until you get bored. Leave in an hour, so that you’re gone before the reinforcements come. If I’m not back in an hour, leave without me because it probably means I died. It’s been a pleasure working with you guys. Have a good night.” I said calmly, turning away.
“Aye aye!” Ryan called. I turned around, smiling at him. He saluted me, grinning. He had always been like a father figure to me. Ever since he had saved me from the vampire clan that was going to murder me when I was young and raised me. I dashed forward, sniffing the air. I could sense his blood lust downstairs. I kicked open a door, but didn’t see anything in it. I sighed, running down the hallway. Where was the way to the basement? I shrugged, deciding to make my own door. I pulled out my oozy and shot at the floor around me, causing a hole to be punched out around me. I fell through to the ground, smirking as I tossed the gun away. I felt my heart skip a beat when I saw her. Lying on a bed, sleeping peacefully. Wrapped up in the bounds my mother had been wrapped up in when they killed her. Just in case she had been a talking. I was well aware of what they were. I ran forward, reaching towards her. I felt something shock my finger as I stared at my sleeping beauty in shock. I heard laughter as I was suddenly struck by someone. I paused for a moment, cracking my neck as I turned back around, hitting Patrick. Patrick grinned as he turned back to face me.
“So, you do care for her.” He said calmly. I raised an eyebrow.
“Of course I care for her.” I stated as if it were obvious. Patrick sighed, looking down at her.
“How many people are up above?” He asked. I shrugged.
“Twenty? Sixteen? Ten? Depends on how many are still standing and how many of your men they’ve converted.” I said calmly. Patrick sighed again, looking up momentarily.
“Well, if you want to fight, lets fight. Who ever wins gets the Talking. Sound good?” He asked. I glared at him.
“Who’s to say you wont just go after her again when you lose?” I asked. Patrick sighed.
“Well, I’ll leave her alone forever on one condition.” He stated. I raised an eyebrow.
“Name your price.” I ordered. Patrick glanced at her still figure, then back at me.
“You both have to belong to me if I win.” Patrick stated. I paused for a moment. If I lost… then I’d still be with her right? But we would both be slaves… I’d have to free her. I grinned happily.
“it’s a deal. Now bring it you blood sucking son of a bitch.” I snarled. Patrick grinned, running forward towards me. I dodged around him, kicking him in the back. Patrick fell down, reaching out and grabbing my leg. I too fell down, but kicked him in the head as I did so.
“Do you realize how lame we look right now?” I asked, pushing away and jumping back up onto my feet. Patrick shrugged.
“I don’t really care.” He stated, lifting up his hand. I raised an eyebrow, dodging a book.
“Is that it?” I asked, but felt a chain trip me. I fell towards the ground, the chain holding me down as Patrick began dealing some blows. I pulled myself away from the chain, but Patrick kicked some dirt from the floor in my eyes.
“You asshole!” I yelped, rubbing my eyes. Patrick smirked.
“I’ve never liked playing nicely.” He stated. I sighed, getting the rest of the dirt out. I suddenly leapt upwards, pulling out my pistol and shooting as I fell back towards the ground. Patrick dodged the bullets calmly and easily, turning around.
“Are you drunk? Your aim was horrible.” Patrick stated. I grinned.
“Who says I was aiming at you?” I asked, looking past him. Patrick turned around to see all of the binds attaching Taya to the bed shot away. Patrick dashed at her but I, being faster, leapt onto the bed. As I did so, I realized that Patrick had been cheap and put Taya on an operating table. But, it helped with the get away. I looked back at him as Taya’s unconscious body and I rolled towards the hole. I grabbed Taya’s body, ignoring the stinging as I tore away the bonds and leapt upwards, kicking away from the table and using my wings to land back on the ground safely. 
“You know, I’ve never liked to play nicely myself.” I shouted back to Patrick as I glanced at the wall.
“Collapse and seal the hole.” I ordered. The wall did as it was told. I grinned and continued running back. Everyone was waiting calmly.
“So, I destroyed their phone line.” Katie stated. I grinned.
“Awesome. So they can’t get reinforcements?” I asked. Katie nodded.
“Yep. They’re fucked. Oh and Cody went in and killed about twenty of them before we had to go.” She stated. I turned to look at Cody who simply grinned.
“I had so much fun!” He chirped. I grinned, but suddenly froze as I heard a banging noise from Patrick trying to escape. A bone chilling screech rang through the house. I held Taylor’s limp body in my arms as I ran past the others.
“Okay. We need to go, now.” I stated, leading the way outside. The others quickly followed. I looked down at the princess in my arms as she slept calmly. Another Talking. I smiled calmly as I ran in the moonlight, feeling more free than ever. The wind kissed my cheeks as I ran, thanking me for saving one of their children. I smiled even wider.
“We’re free…” I whispered into her ear.

Chapter Twenty Three- Rescue Mission

My heart pounded against my chest. They were going to kill him using me… I writhed around against the chains, trying to get free. I cringed, feeling the pain of the choker stinging me. It wasn’t taking my soul, but it still hurt. I closed my eyes, trying to be creative. I stood up calmly, the chains pulling me back down. I cringed as I hit the ground. I would have to do something I hated doing. It was something I was taught to do when someone was abducting you. I inhaled sharply, my lungs expanding as they filled with air. I gritted my teeth, then opened my mouth, letting a shrill shriek escape my throat. I heard the scream echo across the room and down the hall. I had a continuous scream for about thirty seconds, then I opened my mouth again. I had gotten used to this from the concerts I had been to. I was about to scream for the tenth time when Pete burst in through the door. He glared at me.
“What the fuck do you want?” He snarled. I looked up at him innocently.
“My chains hurt and I fell over trying to escape.” I stated. Pete rolled his eyes, thinking for a moment.
“Well you’re in luck. Patrick wants you anyways so you get to get out of here.” He said calmly, removing the chains. He removed the gem from the binds, but left the bind wrapped around me. He picked me up, pausing for a moment before putting me down.
“You need to change.” He said calmly, tossing me a blood red gown. I kept eye contact with him for a moment.
“Well?” I asked. Pete raised an eyebrow.
“What?” He asked. I rolled my eyes.
“I’m a lady. You’re a man. There is no way I’m letting you see my bare body” I stated. Pete’s face flushed as he spun around, facing the wall. I shook a bit, the binds falling off of me. I slipped into the dress, though. I needed something else to wear. I looked over at Pete, my ears perking up as I realized that he had made a huge mistake.
“May you sleep well. Now collapse.” I ordered. Pete spun around, confused, but it was too late. Pete fell to the ground, unconscious. I smirked, picking up the hem of my dress and running out. 
“It’s a shame your… dogs are so weak” I muttered to Patrick, despite the fact that he could not hear me. I continued running down the stairs until I came to the main room. I was unsure of where to go. I mean, when I had gone through here the first time, I was unconscious. The second time I hadn’t escaped. It was soon clear to me where I was going as a trap door opened beneath me, my body falling through it. I landed on the ground gracefully despite the distance. Around me was darkness except for the single light that was on around me like a spot light. I looked up at Patrick as he stared down at me, a pleased grin spreading across his face.
“I have to say, Taylor. You don’t disappoint.” He stated. I grinned, standing up straight.
“Well thank you. I’d have to say that unfortunately you do.” I stated, the dress encircling around me as I pulled myself into a defensive position. Patrick sighed, lunging out at me but I dodged the attack gracefully, landing on the nearby wall, then kicking of and landing behind him.
“Oh come on, my trap door was a nice touch, wasn’t it?” He asked, spinning around. I grinned ducking down and hitting his legs. Patrick faltered, then using the momentum got back up, hitting me in the face.
“I’d have to say that it’s been done” I said, shrugging. Patrick smirked, holding up one hand.
“How about this. This floor is covered in the binds that you were wrapped up in. as for your ability to attack me, I happen to be telekinetic. So.” He said, the ribbon like binds shooting up and wrapping around my wrists and tying them together. I cringed as I tried to pull them apart.
“You see? I never play clean. In fact, I don’t plan to play nicely when Josh comes either. I use what I have.” He said calmly. I felt my body rise and start to move towards him. He held me in his arm calmly. 
“At the moment, what I have happens to be a great prize after all. Did I mention that my telekinesis gives me the power of human puppetry as well? And with your powers bound the way they are right now, that’s all you really are.” He said. I cringed away from him, but he held me tightly as the lights burst on. We were in the study that I had been in earlier that day. Patrick smirked as more binds shot out, wrapping around my arms and legs as he sat down next to me. He snapped his fingers. I felt my body growing weaker. I glared at him.
“W-What is this?” I asked. Patrick shrugged.
“I’m simply taking away your strength temporarily. Well, until I’m done with you. It’ll come back later once the plan is finished.” Patrick explained. I gritted my teeth.
“I’ll kill you… if you… hurt him…” I panted. The binds began to hurt as I felt my body growing weaker and weaker. My mind began to grow fuzzy as my ears drooped. Patrick smirked.
“Of course you will. Now stay there like a good little girl and go to sleep. It adds for a nice effect.” Patrick ordered. I felt my eyelids closing as I grew tired. My mind slowly began growing black.

Chapter Twenty Two- Plotting (Josh's POV)

I stared out at the makeshift group I had created. About thirty vampires and wolves stood before me, but even I knew that this wasn’t enough. Patrick had about fourty vampires in his mansion alone, not to mention the other groups that would come as soon as they heard the call. I sighed, pushing back my hair and looking at the group. They were all like me. They had lost their family members and now they were just using each other to survive. But the one who was able to make us smile had been taken and would most likely be killed if we didn’t hurry. I stepped up onto the makeshift stage I had placed in the middle of everyone to try and seem dominant. 
“Hey! Shut it!” I shouted to everyone. The group stopped, turning to face me. I nodded.
“Good, good. Now. I bet you’re wondering why I’m here. Well, you see, Taylor was kidnapped by Patrick’s clan.” I said. I stared at the expressions of the group. One voice spoke up.
“Isn’t she a Talking? Can’t she protect herself?” the voice asked. Everyone turned to glare at Frankie. Frankie shrugged.
“Someone was going to ask. I just chose to verbalize it.” He stated. I nodded calmly.
“Thank you for addressing that Frankie. You see, Patrick put a collar on Taya which only allows someone who either is or once was a Talking to order her around. Taya managed to break it once, but because she’s not quite rank A, she can’t escape. We need to help her escape and for that, I propose, we storm the mansion.” I said. The group stared at me as if I were on crack.
“But that’s suicide!” Karin shouted out. I nodded.
“Maybe so. But you know what? We’ve lost enough people to Patrick’s army without doing anything to them.” I stated. Hushed voices were heard amongst the crowd. 
“Why should we trust a mix blood like you, you fucked up sin against nature!” A vampire screamed. I aimed my gun, not even bothering to look at the speaker, shooting them in the head.
“Anyone else care to insult my background?” I asked. The crowd grew silent. I nodded.
“Damn straight” I snarled, then nodded to Ryan. Ryan nodded back as he walked over to the dead vampire, pulling his body away and throwing it into a dumpster. Suddenly, a wolf that I knew as Cody spoke up.
“I’m all for killing a castle full of bloodsuckers, but doesn’t Patrick outnumber us, greatly?” He asked. I raised an eyebrow at Cody.
“Oh, and you’re doubting that you can kill all of those fuckers?” I asked. Cody paused, then smirked.
“You have a point. Well, I’m with it. Who else isn’t a pansy ass?” He asked, climbing onto the stage next to me. I nodded at Cody as some other people stepped forward. A few vampires and wolves left, leaving us with sixteen remaining members. I stared out at all of them, grinning.
“Thank you all for not being dicks!” I said, screaming dicks at the others that had left. They just continued onward, trying to ignore the comment. I smirked, looking at the sky. I checked my watch.
“We’ve got about six hours until the sun rises for all the vampires. As for Patrick’s re-enforcements, we’ve got two hours to find the door to the tower, destroy as many fuckers as possible then get the fuck out.” I stated. I turned to Cody.
“Cody, you know what I’m in there for. You feel free to lead the others to kill anyone who tries to stop you.” I stated. Cody smirked.
“Got it… say… do you have anymore of those special guns?” Cody asked. I glanced at the pistol in my hand and the mini machine gun attached to my belt that he had been eyeing. I nodded.
“Thanks for reminding me. This way, everyone.” I said, leading them through the rest of the alleyway. We entered a small building. I nodded at the receptionist. She nodded, pressing a button.
“Mr. Ramsay’s here with… friends” She said calmly. There was a buzzing noise as the door opened, allowing us all through. I entered the warehouse’s large basement, resembling a Costco. Only this Costco was filled with guns. I opened my arms, standing on top of a large box.
“This is where all of my guns are. Every single gun has been blessed and every single bullet you get is filled with ultra violent rays that will burn the enemy from the inside. Go crazy.” I shouted. A man walked towards me, raising an eyebrow.
“You’re letting everyone in here? After all this work?” He asked. I nodded to my security guard, Crimson, who was a hybrid like me. Only he was a vampiric wolf. 
“I am. My plan is finally coming together. We’re killing that mother fucker.” I said calmly. Crimson grinned.
“Good. Don’t forget to give him my message” Crimson stated. I nodded.
“Will do.” I said calmly. I turned to the group as they came back towards me. Everyone had a decent amount of guns except for that wolf, Cody. He had loaded himself down with as many guns as he could carry. I raised an eyebrow.
“Can you fight with all of those?” I asked. Cody smirked.
“I don’t give a shit. These are fucking awesome” He stated. I grinned.
“Okay! Lets go!” I shouted, leaping down as we exited. I could feel my heart pounding as the thought of revenge consumed me. Time to plug that mother fucker.

Chapter Twenty One- Realizations and Rescue Missions

I stared at the ceiling, feeling more dead than alive. They were going after him. To try and use me. I sat up quickly. But… Josh wouldn’t let them take him away. He was stronger than that… I curled into my bed sheets in worry. If they were taking a large group of vampires, then… Josh probably wouldn’t stand a chance. I cringed as I thought of them hurting him. It then dawned on me. I did love him. Even though we barely knew each other. When I thought of someone hurting him, I went and used as much strength as I could fathom to help him… I sighed, sitting up. He made the butterflies in my stomach grow until I felt as though I could barely breathe… or maybe that was my healing crushed oesophagus… I rubbed my temples, trying to relax. Josh could take them. After all, he was a mercenary… I fell back onto the bed, staring up at the ceiling again. If I hadn’t attempted suicide, then maybe none of this would have happened… then again… maybe it would have, but with the opposite effect. If I had always been a Talking, then wouldn’t they have come anyways eventually? But… then if I hadn’t taken the pills, I would have never met Ryan and he would have never gone insane… but I also wouldn’t have met Brendon, Spencer and John… I gritted my teeth. I loved all of them… were they going to try to hurt all of them then? I felt tears fall down my cheeks. Would they go after all of my other friends? I knew Cody was a masochist, but did that mean that they would just kill him? Or would they use other methods against him? I held my head in my hands as I thought of all the things they could do to each of my friends. Everyone’s life was going to be ruined because of me… I began to sob. I should just kill myself… if only I knew how. I looked at my body. Last time a pipe was shoved through me, I survived. I’d been strangled, beaten… all kinds of things. I sighed, unsure of how I was supposed to commit suicide if I was this immortal freak. I heard a sudden clicking as the door was opened. I looked up to see a familiar face, only now her hair had turned a light auburn. She wore a low cut red tank top and a pair of skin tight black skinnies with a pair of black boots over top. She stared at me silently as a smile spread across her face, showing her vampiric fangs. I opened my mouth slowly, unbelieving of who I was seeing.
“Mara?” I asked. My old friend nodded calmly.
“Yeah, it’s me.” She stated. I watched her curiously as she sat down next to me.
“What are you doing here?” I asked. Mara shrugged.
“Pete told me to come here.” She stated. I paused, remembering what Katie had said at the party. Mara wasn’t a friend anymore. I stared at her, my eyes narrowing.
“Mara, why are you working with them?” I asked. Mara stared straight back at me, her smile fading.
“Working with them? It’s not like I have a choice. Patrick turned me, which meant that I have to be with them for eternity. Denying your master is considered a crime amongst both vampires and werewolves.” She snarled, “A crime that your disgusting little cross breed boyfriend is guilty of.”
I stood up.
“Don’t call him that- wait… a cross breed?” I asked. Mara nodded.
“Josh is both a talking and a vampire. When Patrick became a vampire, he was turned. But Josh’s parents denied both of their families and created him. A vampire and a human, who bared the egg of a Talking within her. It was a sin against all of our cultures. That’s why Josh has no clan. Because he was born alone, and we killed his parents when they gave birth to him.
I stared at her in disbelief.
“So Josh and I-”
“Yes. You’re both the two remaining Talkings. Patrick is no longer considered a Talking and his soul has gone with the others, making ninety-eight Talking souls. He still hasn’t realized this though. He‘s obsessed with your filthy vampire-talking now because of the fact that he‘s able to use his Talking powers when he wants to” She explained. I glared at her.
“He’s not filthy!” I snarled. Mara grinned as she stood up.
“Oh yes he is. He’s the lowest amongst us. He’s a sin against nature that will die alone.” She growled. I lifted up my hand, striking her across the face. I stared at her in disbelief at what I had done.
“I-I-I’m sorry…” I said. Mara turned to look at me as her mouth turned into a snarl. Her eyes were suddenly engulfed in pink as she cracked her neck.
“You deny your old friends to protect the garbage. How… disgusting. I don’t know what Patrick see’s in you, but I will end his longing.” Mara growled, stepping towards me as her finger nails became claw-like. There was a sudden banging on the door. Mara turned to look at the door, seeing Patrick standing there. Patrick glared at her.
“Mara. Leave. Now.” He ordered. Mara bowed her head.
“My apologies, master.” She whimpered, walking past him with her head hanging down. Patrick glared at her as he watched her leave. He looked over at me, shutting the door.
“Your boyfriend was gone when we arrived.” He stated. I stared at Patrick, shocked. Had the telepathy worked? I stared at Patrick, my mouth turning into a smile. Patrick glared at me as I began to laugh.
“What? What’s so funny?” He snarled. I threw back my head in laughter, yet I was confused as to why I was laughing. I suddenly felt something from my body separate as I looked beside me to see a ghost like figure of Josh standing beside me, cackling away. Patrick dashed at him, trying to grab him but his hands just went through Josh. Josh continued laughing, falling over as he did so. He wiped a tear away from his eye.
“Oh my god. You thought I’d be oblivious to your plans? I’ve been here the entire time. Well, sort of. You see, your end is coming soon. I know. I’ve seen it. You made a big mistake in taking her, and now, I’m coming to kill you.” Josh said happily, then turned into smoke and disappeared. Patrick gritted his teeth as he pushed me up against the wall in anger, pinning me there.
“Where is he? Is he inside of you again?” Patrick asked. I shook my head.
“He’s gone…” I muttered, grinning. Josh was smart. Patrick glared at me, throwing me back onto the bed. He grinned wildly as he held up his hands, chains wrapping around me tightly. He stared at my choker, removing it only for a moment as he muttered something into it. A single tear drop gem appeared on it, turning a vibrant red. He opened his hands, the choker becoming long like a rope. He tied it around the chains which bound me and turned away.
“lets see him try to save you.” Patrick snarled. I stared up at Patrick, glaring at him.
“He’ll be able to. After all, this choker only affects the wearer.” I growled. Patrick smirked, appearing in front of me now. He tilted my chin up towards his face.
“You should study Talking binds before you talk. This one is able to change into what ever I want it to be. Currently, it’s able to repel any efforts a Talking does to remove it. And seeing as how Josh is half Talking, he can’t do shit!” Patrick cackled. I shook my head.
“Josh will find a way.” I stated. Patrick laughed as he began to walk to the door. A few moments before he exited, he turned to me.
“Oh, and every time he tries, it’ll hurt him and take away a piece of his own soul.” Patrick snarled, his eyes shining their vampiric white. My expression turned to fear as I attempted to escape from the chains.
“Let me out!” I screamed. I wouldn’t let them hurt him. I gritted my teeth as I writhed around. I began to dread Josh coming for me.

Chapter Twenty- Bad Vamps

I awoke slowly, my head hurting terribly. I looked around. I didn’t know where I was exactly, but from the fact that I didn’t know where I was, I could only assume I wasn’t somewhere I wanted to be. I was still in my dress, which caused me to feel relief as I realized that they had not changed me out of my clothes, which meant that none of them had seen me naked. I sighed, examining the room I was currently in. It wasn’t a large room. Probably just a bit bigger than my bedroom at home, which was about 12 by 11 feet. It was dark, however. I felt as though I were in a dungeon… a nicely furnished dungeon. My bed sheets were black silk and velvet and as were the rest of the pieces of furniture. The walls were a dark chocolate brown and the floor was a dark wood floor. I rubbed my head, suddenly spotting the vampire in the corner. I recognized it as my former doctor.
“Evening Pete.” I muttered. Pete grinned.
“Evening. How’s your head?” He asked. I shook my head.
“Killing me. Do you have any Tylenol?” I asked. Pete nodded, tossing me a bottle of pills and a bottle of water.
“Don’t take all of them” He teased. I glared at him.
“Hardy-har har.” I growled. Pete simply continued smiling as I took a pill. I looked back up at him.
“So, when am I dying?” I asked. Pete shrugged.
“Never from what I heard. I think we’re using you for awhile then turning you into a vampire.” He stated. I sighed.
“Oh, that’s going to go over well. Um… destroy the wall” I ordered, aiming my hand at the wall. Nothing happened. I looked up at Pete. He glanced down at my throat. I reached up, feeling a collar around it.
“You feel that? That collar restricts your powers. If you had managed to summon all ninety-seven talking spirits, then you would have been able to beat it. But seeing as how you’re only a beginner, you can’t do shit.” He cackled. I raised an eyebrow.
“Ninety-seven?” I asked, “Shouldn’t there be one hundred?”
Pete shook his head calmly, sitting down in a chair beside my bed.
“No. Well, there is, but you‘re still alive and the other two were turned into vampires.” Pete stated. My jaw dropped open.
“Who?” I asked. Pete shrugged.
“You’ll find out over time.” He said calmly. He paused for a moment, then grabbed my wrist, pulling me to my feet.
“Come on. Patrick wants you.” He stated, pulling me towards the door. He opened it and continued leading me down the stairs. So I was wrong. I was in a tower. I followed Pete all the way down the stairs and into what looked to be a study. Patrick stared up at us from a large, ancient looking chair that made me think of one of the arm chairs that might have been in beauty and the beast. Only I highly doubted that this one would start talking and moving around. I locked eyes with Patrick, recognizing the hunter that stood before me. He could withstand any orders I gave him and on top of that, I was wearing the chocker that wouldn’t allow me to use my abilities in any way, shape or form. Patrick pointed at the chair, inviting me to sit.
“Please. You must be tired from walking all this way.” He said, his voice smooth and alluring, yet frightening and spine chilling. I took a step forward, holding my breath, but I didn’t sit down. Instead I stayed standing, my eyes still locked with his.
“I’d prefer to stand” I said calmly. Pete stepped forward, reaching out towards me. Patrick held up one hand, glancing at Pete for just a moment as if he were telling him to back down. Pete did as he was told and stepped outside of the room, closing the doors behind him. Patrick smirked as he moved around the table towards me.
“Talking, I demand you to sit.” He said, his voice still smooth. He didn’t stutter or shake when I refused once again by remaining in my current position. The only form of protest he did was lift his hand. As soon as his eyes turned their vibrant white as I felt a chair run under my legs, causing me to fall into it. The arms of the chair then bent around my hands, tightening around my wrists so that I couldn’t stand up. Patrick smirked as he turned around to walk to his desk. Realizing the distance when he sat down, he pulled the chair I was trapped in towards his desk. He grinned, barring his fangs. 
“So. How did you sleep?” He asked. I shrugged.
“It was ok. I was kind of knocked out so when I woke up I had the biggest headache, plus there was someone watching me the whole time which was a little creepy.” I stated. Patrick leaned forward, his grin still plastered onto his face.
“I see. I’m terribly sorry that you feel that way. Is there anything I can do to make your stay more enjoyable?” He asked. I shrugged.
“Well, you could take this collar off of me and let me go” I stated. Patrick threw back his head, laughing. He looked forward into my eyes, placing a large book on his desk.
“I’d like you to blow up this book.” He said calmly. I stared at him, confused.
“Why would I do that?” I asked. Patrick sighed.
“Please, don’t make me make it an order.” He said. I sighed, placing my feet on the desk.
“Sorry, toots.” I teased. Patrick sighed again, his eyes turning white again.
“Blow up the book.” He ordered. I felt my mind blur as my hand opened up.
“Destroy the book. Blow it up.”
I felt my lips form those words as my voice made the correct noises. Both worked together to form that phrase, despite the fact that I didn’t want to. The book suddenly combusted into flames, sparking and burning away until it suddenly exploded. Bits of burning paper floated to the ground. Patrick laughed manically.
“Wonderful. You see, Talking, the collar around you allows me, and only me to control your powers until you can over come it. No one else can use it except for maybe your new boyfriend.” Patrick stated. I stared at him, confused.
“Why only the two of you…?” I asked, then suddenly got it. My eyes widened as I stared at him.
“You’re the-” I started, but Patrick simply laughed even more. 
“The ninety-eighth Talking. Yes. I am.” He said calmly. I stared at my feet for a moment.
“But then that means…” I said quietly to myself. Patrick nodded again.
“Josh is the ninety-ninth. And you’re the last one. The one hundredth, also known as the princess or prince depending on the gender. The first one is the king, and he was killed many years ago, along with the rest of our race. You survived, how ever, and was placed in the care of a human family when your powers were sealed away and you were put in human glamour. You are the last Talking that will ever exist. How ever, we need you as a vampire if you want to go to your true potential.” Patrick explained. I glared at him.
“Hell no.” I snarled. Patrick sighed.
“Its too bad that I can’t control your other actions otherwise this would easily be forced.” He said as if it were something normal. I held my breath as he walked over to my side.
“However, in your current predicament, it could very well be forced.” He muttered. I glared at him.
“When I become a vampire, I’ll destroy you.” I snarled. Patrick paused, a blank expression crossing his face.
“That’s right. You probably would. Hmm. This makes our predicament a little harder to fix, doesn’t it?” Patrick asked, then looked up as the door was opened.
“You called for me, Patrick?” Pete asked. Patrick nodded, lifting a hand and allowing my arms to be free. I rubbed my wrists as Patrick took a step back.
“This one’s going to be a bit harder to convert. Take her to her room, then… bring in our mistress to pay a little visit to the Talking. Oh, and find Josh. Take as many vampires as you think you need. We may need some leverage.” He ordered. Pete nodded.
“Got it.” He stated, grabbing my wrist. I pulled away, staring at Patrick.
“I’m going to murder you before you even try.” I snarled. Patrick grinned.
“Interesting. And how are you going to do that when you can’t even attack?” He asked. I started towards him, picking up the chair as I ran at him.
“I’ll find a way you asshole!” I shouted. I felt the chair stop in mid air, but I just let go of it, running forward. I held out one hand, placing it on Patrick’s face.
“Deny your master and destroy the traitor.” I ordered, my voice sounding different. What was this newfound power that I was using. I felt my hand heat up as I began to scorch Patrick’s face. Patrick just stood their, staring down at me, then pulled away when he felt my hand’s heat intensify until it was almost as hot as the sun’s. He roared in agony as he held his face, then turned to me.
“Deny me? Deny me? No one here can deny me!” he screeched. I cringed, his voice ringing in my overly large ears. I gritted my teeth as I held out both of my hands, the books exploding all around me.
“Don’t touch him!” I screamed back. Patrick glared, his eyes shining white as the chair flew at me. I ducked down, watching it suddenly stop and fly back. More colours began appearing in my eyes as my hand flew upwards, blowing up the chair. Patrick suddenly leapt out at me, grabbing my throat before I could do anything. I clawed at his hands and kicked in his direction, trying to get air as he lifted me upwards.
“Power. You have so much power when I threaten him.” He muttered. I stared into his eyes, my heart pounding against my chest. Patrick grinned.
“I want that power!” He roared, his grip tightening. I coughed, feeling light headed. But this time it wasn’t from using my powers. I felt my body weakening as I stopped, my legs ceasing their attempts to hit him. They dangled calmly as I felt the light draining from my eyes. I felt Patrick’s grip suddenly loosen as I was dropped to the floor. I gasped for air, lying down on the ground as I began to cough. I stared up at him, panting. Patrick looked over at Pete.
“Take her to her bedroom. Do as I ordered before.” Patrick ordered. Pete nodded, picking me up. I slumped over onto his shoulder as a tear slipped down my cheek. I closed my eyes as I felt Pete move down the hall smoothly.
“Josh,” I thought, “Josh, if you can hear me, please watch out. They’re coming for you. I don’t know how many but don’t let them get you… it would kill me if they hurt you”

Chapter Nineteen- Masquerade Fight

Ryan lunged towards John, his eyes flickering their vampiric colour for a few moments, then as he reached out to strike, his iris’ had changed completely. John snarled, manoeuvring out of the way of the attack and reaching over to strike him. Josh jostled me, turning my attention to him as he manoeuvred out of the way of an attack from Patrick. Patrick’s white eyes shone as he attempted to strike Josh. Josh held up his gun, blocking the hit and kicking Patrick in the stomach. Patrick grinned as he let out a loud screech. About twenty more vampires entered the building. Josh turned to me, a look of concern crossing his face.“Taya, run. We’ll distract them while you escape” He ordered. I shook my head.“No, I can help” I stated. Josh shook his head, moving out of the way of another vampire’s attack and plugging it in the head. I watched it writhe on the ground in pain until it turned into ash. Josh grabbed the sides of my face, aiming it towards him.“Look, I can take him. I promise I’ll meet up with you later.” He stated. I nodded.“I’ll hold you to that promise” I growled, beginning to run off. Before I could escape, Josh grabbed my wrist. I spun around to ask what he was thinking of, but I soon found out as his lips met mine. I closed my eyes, sinking into the kiss. I sensed a vampire next to us, but it was quickly silenced as Josh shot it in the face. Josh deepened the kiss, and pulled me closer. I could feel him smile as he tossed the gun to his other hand, shooting another vampire. I heard a loud yowl as Ryan, the vampire one, suddenly charged at us. Josh pushed me out of the way, taking the blow. He fell backwards, then using his abilities sunk into the floor. Ryan walked around, unsure of where Josh was.“Come on, you asshole! Where are you? You’ll pay for doing that. She’s mine!” He growled. Josh suddenly reappeared above him, landing behind him.“I’m here you fucker.” He snarled, shooting at him. Ryan dashed away, dodging the bullets. I looked around to see how the others were holding up against the others. My eyes caught Cody as he remained in his human form. He was fist fighting with a vampire, and was doing a good job of dodging. Until the vampire clawed him across the face. Cody froze for a moment, his eyes changing to their werewolf colour. The whites of his eyes turned midnight black as his iris’ turned red. He turned back around, lunging forward as his teeth became sharp and jagged like a wolves. His teeth sunk into the vampire’s throat, ripping it out. Blood gushed from the wound as Cody grabbed a pipe, shoving it down another vampire’s throat. Katie suddenly leapt over, grabbing a guitar stand and pushing it through a vampire as it was about to hit Cody from behind.“Moron. Pay attention!” She barked. Cody glared at her.“Of course, your highness. I could have taken the fucker.” He snarled. Katie rolled her eyes.“Yeah right. You were too busy watching your works of art as they slowly died.” Katie growled. Cody smirked.“Hey, that’s the first time you’ve referred to them as works of art.” He taunted. Katie glared at him.“Shut it! God, why I agreed to work with an alpha dog male like you will forever be a mystery to me.” She snarled, grabbing a glass cup and smashing it into another vampires face over Cody’s shoulder. Cody reached out behind him, tearing it’s heart out calmly. Blood gushed from the wound.“Thanks.” Cody stated, “And it’s because you realized that working with a mixed group without another alpha was too much for you”.Katie glared at him as Cody grabbed the punch bowl and throwing it at another vampire behind Katie.“Shut it.” She growled. Feeling slightly queasy from the amount of blood I had just seen, I looked back at Ryan and Josh. Ryan suddenly leapt out at Josh, grabbing his throat. Josh coughed, allowing a mangled gasp to escape as Ryan pressed downward. I stared at the floor. There, just a few feet away was the gun. I slowly reached for it, but Ryan caught me reaching for it. He leapt off of Josh, grabbing my wrist and pressing me against the ground.“You’d kill me? You’d kill me for him?” He snarled, digging his claws into my wrists. My ears went back as I cringed from the pain. I gritted my teeth.“You’re not who I thought you were, Ryan” I snarled. Ryan struck me across the face angrily. I cringed in pain as the claws cut my cheeks, but instantly began to heal. I turned back up to look into his eyes, but now his eyes just resembled envy. That’s when I saw it. His eyes weren’t hazel. I had never noticed this before, but his eyes were brown and lime green. Now I could feel his envy sinking into me. Ryan’s eyes had always been reflecting envy, but I hadn’t noticed. I was too consumed by his calming nature. I glared at him, gritting my teeth.“Why are you doing this to me? Why are you doing this to me?” He wailed, hitting me again. I grabbed his hand before he could.“You don’t care about me. I’m just a ghost to you. You care about the one before me” I said, staring into his eyes. Ryan stared at me, then his expression turned to shock as there was a loud banging noise. He turned around, looking into Josh’s eyes. Josh stood there, panting as he held the gun. Ryan gritted his teeth as he fell on the ground, reaching for the bullet. He pulled it out quickly, before the bullet could have the desired effect. But he was injured now, which made him slower. Ryan moved away from me, stepping around me towards Josh. I stared up at Josh nervously as he held the gun up. A smirk spread across both of their faces. “Now. Ryan. Don’t make me plug you again” Josh warned. Ryan grinned, barring his fangs.“You caught me off guard. Come on. Lets fight like we were meant to. Using true power.” He growled. Josh smirked, throwing the gun to the ground.“You want to do that in front of Taya?” He asked, taking his shirt off. Ryan smirked, following his lead.“She wont mind. She’s good with this sort of thing” He stated. Josh nodded, his wings bursting from his back. The leathery black wings seemed to resemble that of a bats as his skin became grey like granite and his nose changed to resemble a bat’s. his eyes turned pure white as his teeth became larger and more demonic. Ryan too transformed, only his eyes were purely lime green. Ryan suddenly lunged out at Josh, but Josh caught him, clawing at his stone skin. Ryan yelled, sounding like some sort of a wild cat as black blood spilt down his arm. I backed away. Was this the vampire’s true form? I touched my lips. That had been the man which had kissed me moments earlier? Before I could think of anything else, I felt something grab me.“Gotchya, Talking” A voice muttered in my ear. I felt my blood run cold as I recognized it as Patrick’s. I pulled away, holding up my hand as my ears went back.“Leave me alone.” I ordered. Patrick smirked as he continued stepping forward. That’s when I remembered. Patrick could resist my orders. I shook my head, thinking of something else to do. I clapped my hands suddenly. “Electrocute the enemy.” I snarled. Patrick continued. My powers weren’t working. Why weren’t the attack style orders working? John had said that they would work. I stepped backwards.“Scorch the enemy!” I shouted. A circle of fire burst up, enclosing Patrick. His white eyes shone as he stepped through the circle towards me. I gritted my teeth as my ears folded back. I had to think of something and fast, or else I would be the next sacrifice. I closed my eyes, thinking. I felt a pair of hands grab me as my eyes opened. I felt power surge through me as I felt thirty-three spirits wrap around me. I held up a hand.“Blast the enemy back with wind.” I growled, my eyes turning green. Patrick was suddenly blasted backwards towards the wall by an invisible wind. He gritted his teeth, standing back up. He snarled at me, starting at me. I looked at my body.“Give me the strength to stop the enemy.” I muttered. I looked back up, my eyes sparking a stone grey as I held up my arms. I grabbed Patrick, his strength pushing me back a couple centimetres but with my newfound strength, I was able to stop him. He growled, clawing at me. I felt his claws hit me, but I felt no pain as my wounds healed themselves. Before I could attack again, I felt something hit me on the head, knocking me out cold. The last thing I saw before I fell unconscious was a pair of large, yellow eyes. As soon as I saw those eyes, I knew what had happened. Patrick had won this round. I heard Josh yowl in the background, then I heard and saw nothing. Everything had gone black.

Chapter Eighteen- Masquerade and New Love

I awoke the next morning later that week, leaning against the door. I carefully opened it, surprised that I was able to open it at all. Ryan had locked me in my room every night for the past week, and each night, Brendon and I had played Truth or Truth. Occasionally Spencer had joined in, but for the most part it was just Brendon and I. I searched the area. No one was there. Based on the sunlight peeking in through the ceiling, I could only assume that they had all gone to bed. I crept to the fridge, pulling out some milk and pouring a glass. Today was the masquerade and I had to get ready and stay out of my room until it started. That way Ryan wouldn’t be able to lock me away again… I thought. I crept into the bathroom, getting myself ready for the night that laid before me.

I had just slipped my dress on over my head when I heard the door slam. I stared at the window, shocked to see that the sun was almost set already. Ryan had beaten me. I thought that I could sneak into my room, just for a moment to get my dress and mask on, but he had awoken and locked me in. I sighed, staring at my outfit. I felt like crying. Why was he treating me like some pet? Well, I knew why, but I didn’t understand why he was so obsessive. I stared at the wall quietly.
“This isn’t fair…” I muttered to myself. I heard a noise as a figure held me against their body. It felt like a man’s body. I felt him cover my mouth so that I didn’t make a sound. I cringed as the man held me closer.
“My princess. You haven’t put your mask on yet.” He muttered in my ear. I felt my heart pound against my chest as I realized who it was. I pulled away, grabbing my mask quickly and placed it on my face angrily.
“Josh!” I hissed. He laughed happily as his vampiric white eyes shone behind the blue, black, gold and white mask which seemed to match mine. He wore a black tuxedo with an electric blue tie as he bowed calmly.
“My apologies, princess. Now. Shall we be off?” He asked, smirking. I sighed, searching the room before nodding.
“Ryan didn’t hire you to set up a trap or something, did he?” I asked. Josh laughed.
“No, not at all. Now, if you’ll please, princess. We’re late and you’re not even fully ready yet.” He stated I stared at him, confused for a moment, then realized what he meant. I nodded, my glamour peeling away to reveal my Talking form. With it, my casts and stitches vanished to reveal perfectly healed bones and skin. He smiled to himself as he held out his hand.
“Let’s go” He said calmly. I nodded, taking his hand. Suddenly, we were flying through the wall as his eyes shone a vibrant white. He looked back at me, grinning. Being with him… it felt different. He took of his shirt, then opened his wings as he pulled me into his arms.
“Now, I highly doubt you’re one for falling so lets take the other route.” He muttered in my ear, suddenly falling through the final wall. I clung onto his body as he fell towards the ground. Suddenly, his wings picked up the air and he burst upwards into the sky. He laughed at my reaction to almost becoming pavement.
“I thought I told you. We’re taking another route.” He said, still laughing. I hit him angrily.
“You jerk! You could have killed me!” I stated. Josh laughed calmly as we soared through the night sky.
“Yes, but I didn’t. I’m not stupid, don’t worry.” Josh said calmly. I stared up into his pure white eyes silently as the only sounds I could hear was the wind hissing in my ears and the flapping of his wings. 
“Josh?” I asked. Josh stared forward but nodded.
“Yes?” He replied. I sighed, then looked back up at him.
“Why are your eyes white? I don’t get weird emotions like with the other vampires. Like with red eyes I feel uncomfortable because I can feel their hate and anger… and black eyes make me feel empty and sad.” I asked, explaining my reasoning. Josh smiled calmly. Not his usual smile, but just a regular smile.
“It means I died with no emotion.” He stated. I stared into his eyes for a moment longer, trying to read them, then looked back into the night sky as Josh began his descend to the ground. He placed me down, then slipped his shirt back on calmly and neatened his hair over his mask. He looked towards me.
“You okay, princess?” He asked. I shook my head.
“Stop calling me princess. It’s Taya” I stated. Josh smirked, bowing.
“My apologies, then. Come on. We’re expected.” He stated, bending his arm. I linked onto his and continued walking forward into the building that laid before me. We walked in silently, yet as soon as we did, all eyes were on us. A few of the immortal creatures were whispering back and forth as we entered. I caught a few things, but for the most part I couldn’t understand a word they were saying.
“Is that Josh? Oh he does look handsome tonight…”
“What’s that he’s with? Is that the Talking everyone’s been talking about?”
“She’s definitely a Talking. I thought Ryan said she couldn’t come tonight.”
“Well, clearly Ryan was being Ryan when he said that. We all know what happens when He finds something he likes”
“She’s certainly beautiful without that human glamour.”
“She is.”
I could feel my face redden under the mask as I moved towards Josh awkwardly. He smiled to himself as I heard the hushed voices grow. Josh suddenly stopped, looking around the area.
“Where’s the music?” He asked. Suddenly the orchestra started up again. Josh smirked as everyone went back to what they were doing. Ryan Reynolds suddenly ran up, his arm linked with Katie’s. Katie smiled happily as we both let go of our dates to give the other one a hug.
“Oh my god! You look gorgeous!” She gushed. I smiled, playing with the dress, then jabbed her in the chest.
“You’re the one to talk. You look stunning! Purple really is your colour” I stated. I glanced over at Ryan’s eyes. They had changed to their werewolf colour which was apparently purple. I smirked. Katie’s dress matched his eyes. I looked back to Katie as she adjusted her mask. I looked around.
“So has Ryan arrived yet?” I asked. Katie nodded.
“Yeah, he’s with some werewolf girl. They kind of ditched each other upon entry. That’s what normally happens with them. But how’d you get here? Ryan came and explained to everyone that you weren’t coming?” She asked. I nodded, shooting a glance at Josh.
“Ryan locked me in my bedroom, and Josh got me out.” I explained. Katie nodded. I scanned the crowd, looking for someone else I knew. I saw Taylore with another girl which I assumed to be Hailey Williams. Both of them were wearing black. I continued to look around. A smile grew upon my face when I saw Saul and ‘Caramilk’ talking with each other. Saul looked super happy. I laughed to myself and continued scanning until my eyes came across Mara. Her body was clothed in a fiery red dress that was draped over her body seductively. Her pink eyes shone in the light as she held onto the hand of the vampire which had ran after Frankie and I when Patrick’s clan had attacked the restaurant. I looked back to Katie.
“Mara’s a night kid?” I asked. Katie nodded.
“Yeah. She’s sort of like Patrick’s clan’s pet. Sort of. She works with them and stuff like that. Weird that she got Andy though, they’re in the same clan. That rarely happens.” She explained. I nodded. I suddenly felt someone placing their hands over my eyes.
“Guess who?” A male voice asked. I turned around to face Cody. I laughed calmly.
“Cody! Where’s your date?” I asked. Cody shrugged.
“She got food poisoning at the last minute and couldn’t get her ass away from the toilet.” He explained. I sighed.
“That sucks.” I stated. Cody nodded as he looked over at Katie.
“Katie! Where’s your date?” He asked. Katie pointed at Ryan. Cody laughed.
“You two got the mercenaries? That’s lucky” He said, looking around. He looked back at us.
“Anyways, I’d better go. Cassie’s date was exorcised this week so I’ve got to keep her company.” He explained. Katie and I both nodded, watching him leave. I felt someone grab my hand as a new song came on. I looked towards Josh as he pulled me forward.
“May I have this dance?” He asked. I nodded happily, then looked back at Katie to tell her that I was going. But she was already dancing in Ryan’s arms. I laughed to myself, then felt my body being pulled towards Josh. He smiled as he held my body in one arm, and held my hand in the other. He leaned forward.
“Do you know how to ballroom dance?” He asked. I shook my head.
“I never learned how” I explained. Josh laughed, then held me even closer.
“Just follow my lead.” He muttered into my ear. I nodded, then felt his arm loosen as I felt my feet moving on their own. Josh smirked as I stared at them in shock. I suddenly knew everything that I needed to and the beat was going off in my head. 
“What?” I asked. Josh laughed.
“Vampires born with white eyes get abilities that the others don’t. You have no idea how hard it is to die with absolutely no emotion. One of my many abilities is that I can communicate with people with my mind. So just now I taught you all the steps that you needed to know.” He explained. I nodded, still lost on the subject. I looked past him, catching a glance from Ryan. The one that had been locking me in my room for the past week. His expression looked hurt at my joy as I spun around and around on the dance floor. My eyes locked with his as he glared at me. He turned away quickly, walking away. I sighed, then looked back up at Josh. He too saw what I was looking at.
“So Ryan went crazy over you?” He asked. I nodded.
“Yeah. He did. You knew that, though?” I asked, unsure. Josh nodded.
“Yeah, but I wasn’t aware of the fact that it had been a whole week” He stated. I stared up at him confused as to how he knew that as he suddenly held me tighter.
“If that ever happens again, call me for help. No matter where I am, I’ll pick up your signal and I’ll save you every time, got it?” He ordered. I nodded calmly. 
“Okay…” I said gently. Josh smiled calmly.
“So, other than that, how are you enjoying your new life?” He asked, “Actually a better question is how did you discover your new life?”
I sighed, wondering if I should tell him. I finally decided.
“Well… I was depressed, to be honest,” I explained, “It was just a few weeks ago when I had decided that the only way to feel better was to commit suicide. I grabbed a bottle of pills, walked out into the forest, then swallowed the bottle. I was saved by Ryan and taken to the hospital where Pete was my doctor. That was the first instance. The next morning I went home, then went back into the hospital after I crashed into my mirror after a nightmare. That time, Gerard was my doctor. That night while I was trying to recover, I was attacked by another vampire. I thought I had died, but when I awoke I was on life support. Ryan came in and asked me if I felt safe in there. I told him I didn’t, then Ryan took me away with him.”
Josh stared at me, surprised at the truth. He held me a bit closer.
“And you’ve never once felt weird about being with the vampires?” He asked. I shook my head.
“No. After all, they aren’t monsters” I explained. Josh raised an eyebrow as he leaned down.
“But that’s exactly what they’re labelled as.” He stated. I smirked, raising my head a bit.
“If you haven’t noticed, I’ve never really cared about labels.” I muttered, staring into his eyes. He stared back, his expression fading. He leaned forward, about to kiss me when there was a sudden noise.
“Patrick! Stop! Not here!” a woman screeched. Josh and I snapped up to see the familiar group of vampires consisting of Pete and three others stepping towards us. One of the vampires snapped his fingers as three more clans ran to their side. Brendon, Spencer and John suddenly leapt out in front of me, all snarling. Josh snarled, pulling his gun out. He and the leader locked eyes as he pressed me against his chest as if to show his dominance. 
“Patrick. I suggest you go back to drinking your punch” Josh snarled, cocking the gun. The leader, who I assumed to be, Patrick laughed as the weaker werewolves and vampires pulled out, leaving Patrick’s now giant clan and my four vampires. Suddenly Cody, Katie, Cassie, Karin, Taylore, Saul, Martin and Taija leapt out in front of me. That made twelve to twelve. Only we were still outnumbered by the fact that the vampires we had all drank packaged blood rather than pure blood, which according to Pete makes you stronger. Patrick stepped forward.
“Come on, Josh. We’re not that different. We both came from the same master. You can join us at any moment and you’ll remain unharmed.” He said calmly. He glanced at me, then back to Patrick.
“Yeah? And what would you do to Taya if I joined you?” He snapped. Patrick shrugged.
“As long as she remained obedient she wouldn’t be harmed. We don’t have to sacrifice her for ultimate power if we simply put her on our side. How ever, if she’s unwilling to… be reborn, then I’m afraid a sacrifice is all we can do.” He stated. I felt a chill run down my spine. I stared at their numbers. Twelve on… thirteen? I counted again, this time spotting Ryan. Brendon too had apparently spotted him as I did. 
“Ryan? What the hell are you doing?” He snarled, taking a step forward. Ryan growled.
“I could ask you the same thing. I’m your alpha. You should be over here.” He snarled. The three vampires from his clan exchanged glances, then snarled as their eyes turned their vampiric colour.
“I owe Taya my life. I’ll die before you go any further into your insanity with her” Spencer snarled. John nodded.
“Ryan, you’ve taken this to far. Taylor is her own person. She’s not a toy!” He shouted. Ryan glared at him, running forward. John too ran forward, and that’s when the fight began.