A glimpse of an upcoming story

An all boy school needs to change, All Boys Academy. Parents, teachers and the society aren’t satisfied with what’s happening to the academy; sexual harassment, safety and moral are way beyond low. The school is famous with its academic achievement but is poor in sports accomplishment. The environment of the school seems to corrupt every character in the school. The academy’s principle has to do something before he loses his students and most of all, his job.

The high socialite girl academy, Fancy Academy is trying to top its competition. When an opportunity knocks on the door, they won’t pass the chance. What seems like a charity case at first turns into rivalries and pointless attempt makes a strange turn at the end. Will the All Boys School manage to stop the School Board from shutting it down and will the Fancy Academy beat down its competitor?

If you like what you’re reading, ‘like’ this note or leave a comment. Be sure to check it out at ‘BLACKROSEONLY.BLOGSPOT.COM’. Keep on reading!

Truthfully,

Black Rose

Episode 12: One Last Time

“They’re not here!” said the Vampiress.

Mr. Rousseau and the others had stepped into Lord Colvit’s chamber. They had gone into other rooms too but they were empty. Tara then flashed something. Her eyes turned red for a while.

“We must go back! It’s a trap!” she shouted.

They had no time to escape. As soon as they turned around, Lord Velkhine had appeared with other Generals. They outnumbered them and they’ve got Gina in custody.

“Follow us silently if you don’t want the girl to die!” he warned.

Oliver and Theresa threw their weapons to the ground. Lord Velkhine had a knife pointed at Gina’s heart. They weren’t able to do anything so they followed him to the Big Hall.

“Father, we meet again,” bid Mr. Rousseau.

Lord Colvit shrugged. Then he studied those in front of him.

“Where is the fourth one?!” he asked.

“There were only nine of them,” Lord Velkhine answered.

Lord Colvit stomped his feet and gave out a loud roar. It was terrible.

“No matter! When we’ve got rid of them, we’ll get to him!”

“You won’t find him! He’s well protected!” replied Oliver.

It wasn’t a wise thing to expose Chase’s whereabouts but Oliver wasn’t the smart one on the team.

“Oh really? Has he not warned you about a traitor?”

They went silent. Until then, they have not found who the betrayer was.

“That’s right! You don’t know who it is! Well, how did you think I’ve got you here?”

It was worse enough to be backstabbed by the one who you trust. But revealing everything to the enemy? It was really bad. They didn’t stand a chance now.

“But our armies are winning out there!” said Theresa.

“Little girl, my vampires are best at faking. By now, your armies would have been dead.”

They gulped. Things were really bad now. Lord Colvit raised his left hand and a round, penetrable sort of image appeared; just like the time when the Council sent a bat to give the gang message. Anyway, the image showed that Mr. Rousseau’s Generals of the North, South, East and West’s armies were being slammed, pounded and slaughtered to flames. The enemies suddenly rose up from their ashes reappeared stronger and took the armies by surprise. And then the image diminished until it wasn’t there anymore.

“Now, let us see who the mole shall we?”

The Lord looked rather satisfied and content. All of these things were amusing him.

“If the traitor, please step forward,” Lord Colvit welcomed.

They knew there was a traitor but they never thought it would be among them. Ten seconds went by but no one stepped forward. But then, out of the expected, Gina was released by Lord Velkine and walked toward Lord Colvit. Everyone in the room gasped.

“Gina? You’re the traitor? How could you!”

Theresa wanted to jump at her but Oliver held her back.

“But why?!”

She almost turned her head back but went forward and kneeled at Lord Colvit, discarding the angry faces.

“She had every good reason to! Unlike all you pathetic vampires, she knew which side will win. She chose well.”

Tara felt most betrayed. All of the Gatherer’s secrets had been revealed to her.

“Chase trusted you!” said the Vampiress.

“I have to-”

“Ignore them! Now come forward and proceed with your next task. Take this knife and stab Verdict right at the heart.”

She looked pale and hesitated for a while.

“Ms. Huntington, I am certain that whatever he promised you, he will never live up to his words. You are better than to trust him.”

“Mr. Rousseau, I have to do this. You won’t understand...”

She took the silver knife and it was so heavy she almost dropped it. When she caught the reflection of the shiny blade, it almost made her eyes bleed. It must be enchanted somehow.

“Generals, kill them all!”

“With pleasure, my Lord!”

Lord Velkhine turned to Theresa first.

“You smell good. I’ll eat you first!”

“Wait! It’s me that you want right? Release them!” urged Chase.

He had arrived there promptly before there was bloodshed. Gina almost collapsed. Somehow Chase looked livelier, even if death awaited him. He wore white from top to bottom. Everyone couldn’t take their eyes off him as he stepped forward. He looked like an angel.

“Have you come to surrender, boy?” asked Lord Colvit.

He smiled.

“Yes.”

“Good! Gina, get done with it!”

He looked at her happily.

“Gina?”

Tears were rolling down her face as he walked toward her.

“Why are you crying?”

“Chase! Don’t get near her! She’s the-“

Oliver didn’t manage to finish his sentence as one of the Generals punched him in the gut.

“What is he talking about?”

“Chase, I’m really sorry...”

“Why-“

“No!!!”

She took the knife that she was hiding behind her back and stabbed it right at his heart. For him, it felt like Gina had just stabbed him over and over and he can’t stop the pain. He looked helplessly at her. He was levitating in the air, like he did when he had a vision about Theresa. He was floating in an air bubble that had layers of white lights. He was glowing. As he looked down, he realised that no one was moving and it was not because they didn’t want to but because they can’t. Dark cold blood was dripping from his heart to the floor. The weird thing was; the blood didn’t seem to touch his shirt, at all.

“Thank you.”

Everyone panicked. Theresa closed her eyes. Oliver fell to his knees. Mr. Rousseau was trying to understand what was going on. Lord Colvit and Lord Velkhine looked at each other as if their plans were ruined.

“What’s happening?! Stop it!” yelled Lord Colvit.

The stab didn’t harm Chase one bit. In fact, the knife had somehow melted into a liquid form and it was sucked to Chase’s skin. And when the air bubble had popped, he was dropped to his feet again. He looked at his hand, checked his body and touched his face. He knew he had changed, inside out. He grew one foot taller and had more facial hair. His voice had changed and he did no longer look like he was 13. Gina had turned pitch-black. And everyone was back at their momentum as time turned normal. They all gasped for a breath.

“He has transformed. He’s the one!” said Mr. Rousseau.

“Lord Velkhine you have failed me again!”

Lord Colvit pushed Lord Velkhine with all his might and he was thrown out of the big window. If there was one person who understood what was happening, it was him. Meawhile, Chase was still feeling overwhelmed by what had happened.

“What happened?” Jocelyn asked.

“She has set his power free,” Mr. Rousseau explained.

“Yes, a sacrifice was needed in order to restore my true power,” Chase added

“Power? What are you talking about?” the Vampiress asked.

“Everything that I was meant to do, the person that I was meant to be, it all comes down tonight, to her. It would take a sincere heart with a pure intention to grant me my strength. That’s was her fate. And she did well.”

He picked her up and gave her to Mr. Rousseau. Then he looked back at Lord Colvit.

“The war as you have seen has caused many innocent lives. You have nothing left to fight for. You are at your end.”

Lord Colvit was scared as Chase was getting nearer.

“I-I- forgive you.”

He almost choked on his own words but he made it through. The Lord felt his power was being sucked out of him as Chase gripped his hand. The Lord became weak and grew older by the second.

“What are you doing to me?”

“What should have been done long ago.”

He put his hand on the Lord’s head and closed his eyes. Thunder grew loud, yelling in the cold night. Rain started to fall heavily and a storm blew everything that was in its path.

“Take a cover!” warned Mr. Rousseau.

He pulled the others as far away as he can from Chase and Lord Colvit. The Generals have fled the scene five minutes ago.

“Gulliver Pennington Colvit, I hereby release you from this world. You will be transported to the After Life and redeem yourself with all of your sins to be paid for every life that you took.”

“Noooo!!!!”

Slowly, Lord Colvit turned thin until his bones replaced his skin and after that the bones decayed into dust. He died screeching in agony as he faced Death. Chase closed his eyes and talked to each and every vampires of the Resistance Clan that still stood breathing on the battlefield.

“I, Chase Alexander Verdict, forgive you. You may now rest in peace. ”

Just like Lord Colvit, all of them were burnt into ashes. Chase turned to the rest at the Big Hall.

“Mr. Verdict, I’ve never thought-“

“Idiot!” scolded the Vampiress.

She smacked his head but her hand took the pain. Chase grinned.

“I’m untouchable, sorry.”

“But how?” Oliver asked.

“My ancestors-they erm-paid me a visit and kinda showed me everything.”

“I always knew,” said Mr. Rousseau.

“Yes, you were right. All this time I couldn’t find what my strength was but that was because they locked it away. They said it was too powerful even for me to bear. But it was all inside of me; in my heart.”

“Well, whatever you do, you did good man!”

He patted Chase’s back. Suddenly, Chase felt dizzy. He was breathless. And then he fell on the floor, panting, gasping for air. Everyone rushed to him. Yvonne cleared the way for Tara to check on him. She used her hand, like a scanner, and scanned his whole body.

“Is he going to be okay?”

“Please fix him!”

Chase stopped Tara.

“You can’t. This is beyond your knowledge,” warned Chase.

Chase thought he saw the ghost of his ancestors smiling at him. They were inviting him. Gina was leaning to the wall had just woken up. She saw everyone was surrounding Chase and she knew something was wrong. She got up and ran to his side.

“Chase? Oh my God! I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to.”

She cried as she looked at her boyfriend. Theresa would have jumped at her if Chase wasn’t dying.

“It’s okay. It was my fault. They’ve warned me not to cross the line but I did.”

“What do you mean?”

“They gave me enough power to destroy all of the vampires, including the Delacruz sisters and the Council. I couldn’t let that happen, can I? But when you stabbed my heart Gina, you’ve given me full power. And now, they’re going to take it away.”

“But the root of your power is your heart. And if they take it away-“

“I’ll die.”

“I’m so sorry Chase. If I had known-“

“If you knew, you wouldn’t have done it. This place is finally safe and peaceful thanks to you Gina. You’re a hero. Believe me, I’d know.”

He coughed out dark red fluid. It was blood. He looked at the rest of the crowd.

“Thank you.”

Chase closed his eyes for one last time.

***

Episode 11: NOT Useless

“All my life has been without a failure. But today would be my first. I’ve let you down. Forgive me,” Coach apologised.

They were one hour away from the infiltration. At the brink of war, everyone needs something to light their spirits up but this had just sent them to the lowest bottom of all. Chase looked on his feet. He didn’t dare to meet with the others’ eyes. The Coach was on his knees. He had never been disappointed throughout his life as he had never failed.

“Looks like I’m no good. Sorry guys,” said Chase.

The Vampiress shook her head while the others looked like they have lost hope.

“Failure for the Coach doesn’t mean the same for you Mr. Verdict. True, he has failed to find out what your strength is but that does not mean a thing,” Mr. Rousseau consoled.

The gang didn’t look disappointed too.

“It’s true Chase. Just because we don’t know what your power is does not mean you do not possess one. Don’t give up just yet,” said Tara.

They looked convinced. It gave a small lit of hope for Chase to ignite in his heart. Oliver tapped his shoulder.

“It’s cool bro. I can still teach you some moves. We’ve got some time,” he said.

“Yeah, and we believe in you; no matter what,” Gina added.

“Thanks,” Chase thanked.

She bumped her shoulder to Chase’s and laced her fingers through his.

“The boy better stay,” the Vampiress suggested.

He protested. He wanted to help in any way that he can.

“But I want to help!”

“We can’t put his life in danger. He’s the one they want. And without knowing his ability, he is better off here.”

The Vampiress just ignored everything he was saying. She wasn’t even looking at him. Mr. Rousseau thought hard. Then he looked at his fellow council members for agreement.

“I’m sorry Chase but I’m afraid she’s right. There’s no telling what harm they will cause for you if they ever get their hands on you.”

“But that’s not fair! I can’t just sit back and do nothing while you guys put your life at risk!”

“Yeah, maybe he can help or something,” Oliver suggested

“I’m afraid not,” said Mr. Rousseau.

The gang looked at Tara for help but even she couldn’t do anything.

“I don’t care. I’m going!”

Then Mr. Rousseau approached Chase.

“I’m sorry,” he said.

And he held Chase’s head before muttering a spell and put him to sleep. Luckily Gina was close enough to hold him from falling hard on the floor but of course, with Mr. Rousseau’s help too.

“What did you do to him?!” Oliver questioned.

“I put him to doze. He’s alright. Mr. Wood, help me get him to the settee will you?”

***

He slowly opened his eye lids. It turned brighter. He held his forehead to recall what happened and how he went to sleep. Coach was blowing his nose into his white handkerchief.

“Coach?”

“Oh, you’re finally awake.”

“What happened?”

Then Chase noticed that he was alone with Coach in the castle. Except for the two guards by the door and they didn’t look like they were alive standing still like a statue.

“Where is everyone?”

“They’ve gone to war.”

“War? Oh shoot!”

His memory flashed back. He remembered Mr. Rousseau did something to him that made him all sleepy and tired.

“I’ve got to follow them!”

He tried to get up but he was tied up at his ankles and wrists. He couldn’t move. If he tried to, it would only scratches on his skin. The funny thing was, no rope was seen.

“What the heck? Why can’t I move? I’ve got to go! They need me!”

“Mr. Colvit put a spell on you. You can’t see it but there are things that are tying you down. I’m sorry.”

Again, he wiped his nose and tears. It was a horrific scene to see. The Coach that he first met wasn’t anything like this. He was strong, principled and strong.

“Err Coach, wats up?”

“Oh, oh, oh!”

From the chair, Coach slipped to the floor while moaning over his failure.

“I have failed! When the world needs me the most, I’ve let them down! Do you know how that feels?!”

“Yeah, I do.”

Of course he did. Not being able to help his friend and being tied up to the sofa, he felt a lot like a loser. Coach glanced at him and became sadder as he cried in tears.

“It’s okay. Just because you’ve failed on me doesn’t mean you’ll forever be doomed to failure, right?”

“Forever? Oh no!”

“No, no, I didn’t mean it like that. Well, there is some point in our life where we eventually have to fail-”

“Failing is not in my vocabulary!”

“But until we get to the bottom of the world, how could we ever climb to the top? Just look at me. A few weeks ago I was worse than a loser; I was no one! But now, I have a girlfriend, a few friends and now a coach! And the best one too!”

“You-you really think so?”

Coach was acting up like a little kid. He must have never failed before.

“Yes. Look at you! You’re a legend!

Coach kept silent.

“If there’s something that I’ve learnt over these couple of days, we should believe in ourselves; no matter what the outcomes are.”

“Well, you did somehow escape the wolves attack. I wondered how?”

Before Chase was dragged down here, he was in the forest, hanging upside down and was about to be torn into pieces. When the wolves charged, the funny thing was that he was not harmed in any way; not even one scratch. The wolves just suddenly disappeared, leaving Chase covered in their saliva. There was no sign of him. When he looked, there were traces of the wolves’ paws on the ground. What the Coach and pilot saw was something unexplainable. But of course, Coach was too drowned in his failure attempts to report that to Mr. Rousseau and the rest. And it was too disturbing and ridiculous to talk about. Still, it bothered them. What had actually happened?

“Coach, you saw what happened right? I mean the wolves.”

“Yes, with my own eyes. The pilot saw it too. He almost blacked out indeed.”

“Then that means I wasn’t imagining it! True?”

“Very true.”

Then just outside the castle, a strange but a familiar sound was heard. Wolves howled so loud it echoed inside the palace. Ever wall reflected the sound as it reached to the humans’ ears. They looked at each other anxiously.

“Is that- what I think it is?”

“Wolves!”

“Coach! You’ve gotta untie me!”

He tried to break lose after seeing the guards fled their place. They were after the howling and they looked intimidated.

“I can’t kid! I don’t know how!”

Shrieks and screams were heard just by the door. Chase and Coach began to panic. Coach grabbed a metal shield given by Mr. Rousseau to protect himself in case the enemy got through. He tried to take Chase with him but the boy can’t move. Gentle steps that shook the ground have shown their owners. A pack of wolves had found them. Somehow, Chase had recognized them from earlier. The leader of the pack had a straight scar right at its right eye. Coach stood by him.

“Coach, go now! I think they want me.”

“No way! I’m not leaving you behind! If we’re gonna die, we’ll die together! It’s been a pleasure working with you, kid.”

“Yeah, same here.”

The wolves had them surrounded. They were circling the sofa since Coach had jumped onto it. Deep down inside, he was scared like a little child too.

***

The first and second line had gone down to meet the enemy. They have succeeded in making ways for the Infiltration Force to the palace. Some of them have died flaming in fire while others were still hanging on. It wasn’t difficult as predicted. For some reason, the clan had put down all of their armies at work. They were usually half in battle while the remaining would stand guard in the ground’s place.

Mr. Rousseau had waved his hand and hundreds of the enemies would burn in fire. Theresa stayed with Emilia who lead the invasion through air. They were flying over the roof to attack from the above and managed to take down many vampires. Meanwhile Oliver and Jocelyn took the underground path through the sewers and gave the clan a surprise attack with their troops. Tara and Gina were flying in the storm to observe and report suspicious activities on the enemy’s ground.

After they’ve countered attack from every corner, all of the armies of the enemy seemed to have lost and yet there was no sign from the leaders. They’ve gathered at the humungous gate of the Resistance Clan’s lair.

“Yeah! We sure beat them!” boasted Oliver.

“I don’t feel good about this,” said Theresa.

“I agree. It’s too easy,” supported Tara.

“And there is no sign of Lord Colvit and the others. We must not let our guard down,” said Mr. Rousseau.

Then the Vampires of the North, South, East and West were present to report their status.

“Our vampires are still out there, fighting but there’s nothing that they can’t handle. We assume the night will be shorter than expected.

“Generals of the Four, you must stay with your vampires and make sure you lead them to winning! We are going in!”

***

“Chase Alexander Verdict, do you not remember me?”

He opened his eyes and found a pack of wolves turned into human forms. They were glowing with white lights and looking down at him. Suddenly, he didn’t feel scared anymore.

“I’m dead am I?”

Then he got it right. They looked like ghosts but familiar ghosts. Their faces, he was sure he had seen them somewhere. The crowd laughed.

“No, you are not dead. And we are here on one purpose.”

Coach had fainted. Chase tried to get him up by shaking his shoulders but he was snoring like a baby.

“He will not wake up. Not unless we are still here.”

He tried hard to remember the faces. Then it hit him.

“You’re-you’re supposed to be dead!” he said.

“True. But as long as this war lives, our souls would never die.”

They were his family. The lady that was talking to him was Jennifer Verdict, the first woman in the family involved in the war. Her hair was dark and curly. She had same eyes like he did. She was his great, great, great, grandmother or something.

“But I can’t do anything. I’m no good!”

“Don’t say such word little one. You are what we have all been waiting for. You have the gift that is yearned by Lord Colvit and his clan.”

“But what? I can’t fight, I don’t know how. I’m weak!”

“No, my boy, you’ve got the heart purest of all. It has been you who we needed to protect. And it is you that will put this battle to stop. You have been looking for something that you didn’t have but inside, you’ve already possessed what you truly need. ”

“Again with the heart. What’s inside of me?”

The ghost took his hand and placed it above his heart. It was pounding hard.

“Your heart is partial humans’, vampires’ and angels’. Listen to it, listen carefully child.”

He listened and he saw what needed to be done. He knew what he had to do.

“Our spirit will always be with you. Goodbye grandson, until we meet again.”

She kissed his forehead as the others smiled widely. And they disappeared.

***

Episode 10: Numbers Are Figures

He was landing on his back. The ground was stiff but softer than the windy air. Chase was panting so hard he could hear his own heart beating. He was worn out. Chase thought he might as well give up and die there.

“A ten metre course and he’s already dead at the first one,” the Coach complained.

The Coach was the oldest man on Planet Earth. He lived in the woods, far away from people. After failing at everything, the Council had referred Chase to the Coach. He was the best trainer in the entire universe. Words said it, his clients were high-class athletes and they paid him well.

“He’s hopeless,” added the Vampiress.

The Coach made Chase run ten metres in the track but before he could reach on the second metre, he had collapsed. One thing the Coach won’t tolerate was ‘giving up’. He walked to Chase and blew his whistle hard on his ears. It startled Chase enough to get him on the ground again. The Coach was skinny and very muscular for an old guy. His head was bald which made him look fiercer. His eyes were small but sharp to detect any laziness or bad attitude in people. But, he was very good in judging a character. Getting to him wasn’t easy. He only took famous or well-trained people; unlike Chase himself. Of course, he made an exception to Chase. He said he had a good feeling about the guy. And he wanted to test him first before taking him in.

“They told me you’ve ran faster than a horse! They told me you managed to dodge attacks that were coming your way! They told me you were still standing on a four versus one fight! They told me you were something special!” shouted the Coach.

Chase thought he needed to see a doctor about his damaged ear drums.

“Well they were terribly wrong,” the Coach whispered to Chase’s ears.

He managed to get him pumped out. The Vampiress and the Council themselves were watching from a near distance. The Coach bad-mouthed Chase some more but it didn’t break him down. Then he told Chase to do laps while he went to discuss with the others.

“So, how is he?” asked Mr. Rousseau.

The Coach pulled his cap off and shoved it in his tiny pocket. His bald head was shining under the moonlight.

“He’s quite special. He’s...different.”

“So you’ll take him in?” the Vampiress asked.

“Just leave him with me for four weeks and I’ll get him into shape. I’ll find out his strength.”

“But the war is not until four days! Does he even stand a chance?” urged Mr. Bloody.

“Different kids need different methods. I’ll have to use every kind that I’ve got and that will take days. Tell you what, I’ll give him back to you right before the battle. I assure you.”

The Coach sounded convinced. The others seemed pretty sure too. Besides, he’s their only chance.

“You’ve got four days,” Mr. Rousseau said.

“Do whatever you can. As long as he becomes strong,” the Vampiress pleaded.

“God knows what I’m going to do with him!” promised the Coach.

***

“Where is he? Where’s Chase?” asked Oliver.

It had been more than 24 hours since the group last saw him. Gina looked pale.

“That matter is rather confidential,” the Vampiress answered.

Tara, Jocelyn and Emilia looked at each other with alarm. They knew where the Council had taken him.

“He’s with him, isn’t he?”

The gang was wondering who they were referring to.

“Who’s him? Please, tell us! Is Chase in great danger?” asked Gina.

Tara held her shoulder to keep her calm.

“No young ones. Chase is somewhere far from here. He has been taken to see someone who could train him,” replied Mr. Rousseau.

“He might have some concussion, break some bones here and there, but otherwise, he is fine,” said the Vampiress.

“I’m sure she’s joking,” whispered Oliver.

Somehow, he didn’t sound too convinced.

They shouldn’t be wasting time. The Vampiress signalled Tara to briefly explain their plan for the infiltration.

“Chase is safe so now we need to keep our mind to the plan. We have two days left,” ordered Tara.

Gina couldn’t wipe off her worries from her face. Although her brain and eyes were focus on the laid map, her heart was thinking about her boyfriend. If Chase had seen anyone of them, he would have asked them to get some rest. They were clearly exhausted, dehydrated and distracted with the weight of the world on their shoulders. Even Theresa didn’t have the time to brush her hair. Gina looked thinner and Oliver was wounded with his trainings. Everyone was working hard. The Delacruz’s family was restless too.

***

“Get up you lazy fag!” screamed the Coach.

Chase was down on his knees while boxing with the Coach. His face was covered in blood and he had one black eye. He hadn’t had a meal or a drink from the past 36 hours. But his spirit didn’t dim. He tried to stand up but his head was spinning fast. He was imbalanced when the Coach swung his fist fast at him. Off he went flying out of the ring. He wasn’t breathing.

“It’s time to try a different approach.”

The Coach gave him a towel and a mineral bottle. His lips had never felt more relieved than by the touch of the sweet tasteless mineral water. He wiped his face with the white towel although it hurt. The towel had turned red. He was only given one minute rest.

“Boy, you’d better run fast,” the Coach warned.

“Why?”

“Because you’ve got a pack of hungry wolves at your tail!”

Chase thought he was kidding but when he heard the barking wolves, he picked himself up and ran into the woods. Coach was watching Chase’s moves from the sky. He was riding a helicopter. Chase had ran into trees, bushes and deadly traps in the forest but everytime he fell down, he picked himself up back in the game.

“Are you nuts!? They could really kill me!” yelled Chase.

Coach used the speakerphone so he could be heard from below.

“Less talking and more running!”

Then the pilot of the helicopter interrupted.

“Isn’t it dangerous? He’s just a kid.”

“What awaits him is far more dangerous than the wolves. It’s a good lesson.”

But then, Chase’s steps could no longer be heard. And the wolves were set on a circle, waiting to charge at his every flesh. Their sharp teeth marked the sign of death for him. Chase had got himself hung upside down from a tree. He had stepped into a trap that must have been set for wild boars. Blood poured to the ground. He was helpless now.

“We must save the kid!” urged the pilot.

“Are you kidding? This is the best part!” said Coach.

“Are you mad?!”

“You will never know how strong you are until becoming strong is the only choice you have. Now watch.”

Chase stared at the winding helicopter, signalling for help. He had almost lost it. Soon it was getting dark for him though it was still day light. He was panting hard, which made his sweats more delicious for the wolves’ meal. Without a second left to spare, the wolves charged and the audience watched in despair.

***

The Council was having a big meeting with the rest of the vampire leaders. They all didn’t look like humans and everyone was eager to the battle. They knew it was going to be the last one. The meeting was joined by the gang too but they were protected by the Delacruz’s family. No one can expect if any of the vampires would attack them and eat them alive.

“Do you not respect us, Council?”

The leader of the North Vampires spoke with a deep voice. Then all eyes were focused on the gang.

“We have a betrayer among us. We could not risk their lives more than they are in grave danger,” said Mr. Rousseau.

“A betrayer? So you suspect that one of us is the mole for the other clan! What a disgrace to be tainted upon our images!” said the leader of the South Vampires.

“Where did you get your sources?! We demand to seek the truth!” said one of the West Vampires.

Then all rose from their seats and pounded the table for the truth. Trust had been an issue within the vampires’ culture. It was not until a century ago when they began to trust each other. There were too many betrayals in the past. And now since the issue had been raised, there was no doubt the unity might be broken.

“Silence!” roared Mr. Bloody.

The meeting was getting out of control.

“Four days ago Lord Colvit himself paid a visit to Mr. Verdict. And he had warned him about a mole within our stands. The purpose of this meeting is to find that mole. The war is near. We can’t go around and being suspicious at each other. We need the strength and the trust to win. So heed this warning and it goes to all; you are to repent now or suffer a deathly consequence later! The traitor please show your identity and be done with it!” said Mr. Sucker.

He surprised everyone. Usually both of them would just kept quiet and sit back and do nothing in meetings but today was the first time they had spoken. Everyone listened attentively.

“We bid you our forgiveness if you shall come forward and let the secret out. We cannot guarantee your safety if you had only come later after this meeting is adjourned,” added Mr. Rousseau.

No one spoke. No one came forward. No one dared to move.

“Very well then. Then from now on, let the betrayer be condemned for the rest of eternity! If we shall find who is at guilt, we would not hesitate to continue with the punishment; regardless of your blood and name,” warned Mr. Bloody.

“Let’s move on then. What’s the news from the vampires of the North?”

“Out of 10000 residence of vampires, 8500 are at our side, 1000 at the other while the rest are still uncertain.”

“The South?”

“1000 are ours while 4000 are theirs.”

“West?”

“2000 at ours while the same number are at theirs.”

“East?”

“500 on ours while 6500 at theirs.”

“12000 at our side and 13500 are at theirs,” calculated Mr. Rousseau.

For a moment, the gang saw the vampires were actually disappointed.

“What’s with the numbers?” Oliver asked.

“The numbers of vampires who will fight in the battle,” answered Jocelyn.

“They have 1500 in advance!” Theresa noticed.

“My brothers and sisters, numbers are mainly figures. The Gatherer wish to present their case,” said Tara.

She came forward with a scroll in her hands. When she laid it on the table, the scroll turned blue and so were all of the vampires’ eyes.

“The enemy might be bigger in number but we are stronger and younger than they are. Look, some of them have slipped through time. Many have lost faith and a few remained as our spies there.”

Except for the humans, the vampires were able to see the rusty and old vampires that were on the Resistance Clan. They didn’t look too good. Some recognised them from a bloodline. Some used to be a family or lovers but got separated in the war.

“This is good news!” said the South leaders.

“As expected, some of them might turn to our side by tonight. We must take them in!” urged Tara.

Vampires started cheering and were ready to celebrate. But the Council stopped them.

“Lesson one; never underestimate your opponents.”

“Lesson two; never think greatly of yourself.”

“Lesson three; never doubt yourself.”

“Those vampires are our fathers and grandfathers. We must not forget that they have advantage of experience and wisdom. They have been in thousands of battle compared to us. I say this is a warning of how hard we will work. Leaders of the Four, try to gather and convince as many as you can to join our side. Gatherers, prepare to welcome and inspect the new armies. We do not need more betrayer than one. As for you humans, you should sleep. One day is left. You’ve worked hard all day.”

The gang nodded in agreement.

“But wait! Where is the fourth one?” asked one of the vampires.

“For now, the whereabouts of the fourth one is only for the Council and the Vampiress to know. He shall return promptly before the fight. As for your concern, he is safe and need not worry. You will meet him when the time comes,” said Mr. Rousseau.

“WE now declare this meeting is adjourned! Dismiss!” said the Council.

***

Episode 9: Friends or Foes?

Ever since his meeting with the Council, Chase had been isolating himself from others. There were two choices ahead of him; to give in or fight back. Everyone understood to give him some time and space before he could decide which option will benefit him the most. The things that Mr. Rousseau said to him were echoing inside his ears.

Gina was having a meal at the dining room. She might have looked strong but don’t let that fool you. Like a fragile glass, she was breaking inside. Then Chase pulled out the chair next to her and sat down. She was actually surprised by his approach but was happy too.

He didn’t say anything in the first minute but only gave her a smile before holding her hands. It was Gina’s turn to flush.

“I know things are tough at the time being and my behaviour didn’t make it easier for you-for all of you. I’ve been selfish and incompetent too but you guys were very patient, especially you. Thanks.”

She looked at him dearly.

“I’m just glad you’ve come to your senses.”

“Yeah, me too. Anyway, I hope from now on we don’t have any more secrets between us. Whenever you’re happy, worried or just plain boring, tell me about it. I’m all ears.”

Again, the roles had changed between the two of them. Gina was hiding her frustrations. He knew it. She tried to look away but he caught her dry eyes.

“Trust me, you don’t want to keep things to yourself.”

“I’m sorry, since when did you interfere with others’ business?” she said.

“Well, I have to. You see, I can’t have a psycho in my team. That would pretty much screw us up.”

“Oh, a psycho? Really?”

She pounded his chest.

“How’s that for a psycho?” she asked.

He had a smirk on his face.

“What?”

Apparently he was waiting for something. Then, he decided to let it slip. If she’d want to talk about it, she would have.

“So, what about your family? Do they know?” Chase changed the topic.

He thought the subject could make she feels a lot better. Turned out, the result was the opposite from what he was expecting. Her face was gloomy. Her brows curved downwards and her nose wrinkled.

“They’re...” she startled.

“Good to have you back bro!” Oliver suddenly interrupted.

He ruffled Chase’s hair. For some reason, Chase didn’t feel like challenging him today.

“Yeah, thought we’d have to kick your sorry ass,” Theresa added.

It was weird. Theresa and Oliver seemed to get along these days. They looked perfectly matched and almost looked like twins. Both of them had brown curly hair and matching sturdy black eyes.

“What? With Theresa’s inspiring speech last night?” joked chase.

“Now, don’t push it,” warned her.

They all laughed. If under different circumstances, it would have been an awkward moment for all of them to be seen in public together but hey, share a common enemy and you’re suddenly ‘friends forever’.

“So Chase, are we cool?” Oliver asked.

He pulled up his fist.

“Yeah, we’re cool,” replied Chase.

And his fist met Oliver’s. That night, in the dining area, something spectacular had taken place. Four very different people who were once foes and strangers had become trustworthy partners, fighting alongside with each other. The bright night continued as four of them shared their own side of the story of their pasts, presents and futures together.

***

The Vampiress was showing Chase portraits, documents and gifts that belonged to his ancestors. The first Verdict who voiced his opinions that concerned the safety of humanity had his portrait hung on the wall, Sir Johansson Verdict. He had the same colour of eyes like Chase did but his nose was slightly curved left and had thick lips. Yvonne said he was once a beautiful man but only had his face flawed right after his first battle with the Resistance Clan. His forehead was intense and so were his jaws. The fight might have worn him off.

“I’ll leave you be,” said the Vampiress.

Chase was too distracted with the weapons in the room, he barely noticed the Vampiress was gone. Captivated he was by the small silver knife that remained untouched in a glass box by the stone wall. Then the air turned chill. It was freezing in there. Chase noticed that there was no window in the room that could have possible be the entrance to the great wind. The hair behind his back stood. Something felt wrong.

“Hello Mr. Verdict,” uttered a voice.

Behind him was a man wearing red t-shirt with torn jeans. Above the clothing was a black robe that was too long it was sweeping the floor. Even with his humble appearance, Chase had a feeling he was not to be underestimated. His hair was blonde and long. If looked from the back, he would have been mistaken for a girl. His face was as white as the Vampiress herself but he seemed much colder and crueller. His small grin made him look more devious. Yet, he looked so familiar.

“As a tradition, before the war starts and I kill you, I simply must obey one rule that makes it fair for the both of us. I am permitted with one visit but am forbidden from harming you.”

This must be the leader of the Resistance Clan; Mr. Rousseau’s father.

“Yes, yes, I am the Lord Colvit.”

Clearly Lord Colvit was looking for any sign of fear in Chase’s eyes. Although his heart was beating fast, he wasn’t afraid of the Lord anymore than he’s scared of the Vampiress.

“You Verdicts are always, what’s the word? Ah, courageous. I respect that.”

Chase stood still, getting ready to defend himself in case he was attacked.

“Spare your worries away. I am here to make you an offering.”

He almost laughed.

“What could you possible offer me?” Chase asked.

“I am an old man you see. I’ve seen many things in this world and as I grow older, I begin to respect the value of wisdom. You are at the edge. Your side can’t fight ours. We have grown stronger than the last time.”

“From what I’ve heard, you’re losing more followers.”

Lord Colvit was impressed by Chase’s bravery to talk back to him.

“Even so, we have the advantage in numbers, skills and power. My visit here is to offer you my service.”

“I don’t need your service! I’ll fight till the end! We all will!”

The villain started laughing hysterically it almost shook the walls.

“We? Obviously boy, you are too naive! You have a betrayer amongst your people that you don’t even see it! Now I have learned from my first experience in war was too never trust anyone! For good sake, you’re still a child! And so are your dear friends. Your little guardians of the Delacruz are mere female vampires! They are now as weak as your fragile heart. Your ‘leader’, that treacherous son of mine, is no stronger than my slaves! Admit it child! You are at the brink of darkness!”

For a second, the Lord thought he had managed to fill the dark auras into Chase’s mind. But he just scoffed.

“It’s still too early to tell and I don’t give up that easily. Sorry,” said Chase.

He wasn’t intimidated at all.

“But hear to my offer first. Five days from now, when the moon can’t be seen in the sky, you can join us! I’ll turn you into one of us!”

Lord Coltis said it like it was a wonderful thing becoming a vampire. Sucking blood, chasing humans for food, living in the dark? Chase didn’t want any of that.

“But the Vampiress said not anyone can become a vampire.”

Coltis looked disappointed as if Chase had just insulted his taste of fashion.

“Fool! Those vampires do not have the power such as one that I possess! I was once the Great King! Only I have what it takes to create a new bloodline to the vampire’s family! It is a wise decision to never grow old, owning an empire with humans as slaves and do the impossible!”

Again, the offer only made Chase yawn.

“By impossible, I mean things that are beyond this world, more absurd that man’s theory of science! You could bring dead people alive!”

Only now the deal seemed intriguing. The images of his parents being tortured to death flashed in his eyes. It made the Lord very satisfied.

“Yes, your parents. Your friend’s parents too! And you will never have to lose!”

He was referring to Theresa’s family who was burnt down in the house and the thought of the bullies at his school. Chase took a deep breath before speaking.

“Lord Colvit, with all due respect, I must decline your offer,” Chase spoke calmly.

“Then, you are not wise as you look! But, may I ask for the reasons?”

“Just like your son who believes in you, my parents believed in me. I know it’s weird but deep down you know it’s true. You don’t want any of this more than I do. So I’m going to put a stop to this nonsense! Why? Because I believe in myself!”

The Lord’s face was hard to read. He barely had any facial expressions, just like his son. But he was quiet for a while as he stared into the door of Chase’s soul; his blue eyes.

“Wise choice of words. But my offer stands still. And when you come to me, as I know you would, the world will be ours! Your friends might just be pardoned. Farewell I bid to you. I look forward to meeting you!”

When Chase blinked his eyes, the Lord Colvit was already gone. It was like he was never there. Chase looked around but he was alone in the room; his eyes magnifying the portraits of all the Verdicts hung on the wall. But his heart wasn’t at ease. There was a betrayer among them. And he’d better find him soon!

***

“He lied. There is no tradition or rule that indicates he must pay his enemy a visit few days before the battle,” said Mr. Rousseau.

He was as confused as the others when Chase had told them what had happened.

“Are you alright? He didn’t hurt you?” asked Gina.

“I’m okay,” replied Chase.

“Maybe he’s here to conquer Chase. Maybe his visit was with the intention to the boy off,” the Vampiress guessed.

“Perhaps but we will not take any chances! Tara, please inform the guards to be more attentive and cover every ground. It was a mistake he passed us by. And we shall not repeat it again!” ordered Mr. Rousseau.

“Jocelyn, you need to teach me that killing move you showed me! It’s time! I gotta be prepared!” whined Oliver.

They haven’t been seeing eye-to-eye but if you were fighting and want some assurance of your own safety, choose them to be your partner. Their skills were slick, fast and unpredictable. One wrong move and you’re a dead man.

“I will. But let me hear the magic word first,” Jocelyn demanded.

Oliver rolled his eyes and cursed at himself but he had no choice.

“Fine! You’re pretty! Now can we practice already?”

Jocelyn wouldn’t admit it but having Oliver around was fun for her because she got to boss him around and had Oliver to praise her beauty at all times. They rushed to the garden.

“We’d better get off too Theresa. You need to master the four elements!” urged Emilia.

Off they were gone too.

“I’m off to gather information on our enemies. You should come along Gina,” Tara suggested.

“Okay.”

And then there was the Vampiress, the Council and Chase.

“Mr. Rousseau?”

“Yes, Mr. Verdict?”

It felt weird for Chase to have anyone calling him by his last name. You’d think he had gotten used to it by now but he felt like he was in classroom and was about to get detention. It wasn’t such a good reminder.

“Just call me Chase, please. I think he wants me to come to him. He was hiding it but I knew through the deal, he had wanted no more of innocent lives being sacrificed in the fight. I think he’s changed. Think about it, he could have killed me but he didn’t. There must be a reason.”

Mr. Rousseau’s eyes were shining with rays of hope. But then it died.

“One can never be too sure yet one could always be hopeful,” Mr. Rousseau encouraged.

“I do not mean to meddle but I believe the boy has trainings to go through and so far his results are devastating,” the Vampiress interrupted.

“Yeah, good way to show your confidence,” replied Chase.

“No, this time, the Council will take him under our care. You would be there too to supervise, of course. I think this one needs something out of the usual,” said Mr. Rousseau.

The Vampiress had tried to teach him at sword fighting but he didn’t have a good grip on the sword. They even tried archery, martial arts, shooting and everything but he kept on failing. They’ve tried other means like tactics but his reflexes were no good in planning. He did things intuitionally. He tried observing and scouting. But he was far too clumsy to be a spy. Unlike Oliver, he wasn’t good at fighting bare fists or with a weapon, or Theresa who was excellent in planning and tactics, or Gina who was observant and very detailed person, Chase wasn’t just good at anything. It felt like high school again. He felt like a loser but he was determined to not give up.

“It is best if we bring him to his nature,” suggested Mr. Rousseau.

“But that’s dangerous!” the Vampiress disagreed.

“That’s why we’re all going.”

“What do you mean by ‘we’?” asked Mr. Bloody who was enjoying his drink of rum of blood.

***