Chapter 1:

Cold wind hit me in the face as I walked around the campus grounds. Leafless tree
branches swayed in the wind, clawing at the sides of the stone dorms like fingernails.
The sun peeped at me from between lead-colored clouds. It was like any miserable
winter day in Montana.
The suns warmth was no match for the drifting snow in the air. I pulled my duster closer
to my frame, trying to keep the icy air from seeping into my skin. Unfortunately it only
worked a little, and I shivered as a blast of snow melted as it made contact with my skin.
I was on watch. It was night time for the Moroi, which was one of the easiest posts a
guardian could get. Hardly anyone left their dorms. Well, except for the novices. Every
single one of them appeared to have some form of insomnia. Luckily for me I hadnt ran
into any sleep deprived studentsyet.
Shifts of school guardians always patrolled the grounds while everyone else slept.
Strigoi, the undead vampires who stalked living Moroi vampires like Lissa, didnt come
out in sunlight, but students breaking rules---sneaking out of their dorms---were a
problem night and day.
I walked on the newly lain snow; the only sound was the howling wind and the
crunching snow beneath my feet. I tilted my head back, letting my human genes take in
the suns rays as I continued my patrol around the schools grounds. My head shot
forward when I heard the faint footsteps of another person.
I was the only one who was assigned to patrol the novices side of the campus. Other
guardians were guarding the Moroi dorms and the front gate as well as the back gate.
No one should be walking around my part of the area.
Tensing I realized it was a novice sneaking out, my first catch of the day. Quickly and
silently I rounded a corner, towards the sounds of the footsteps and stopped short. Id
recognized that dark brown hair and stance anywhere.
Rose.
My heart quickened as I took her in. I had finally accepted our love for each other. That
was after almost having an affair with Tasha Ozera. I had promised Rose after
everything that happened in Spokane that I would never hurt her again. But that didnt
mean we could start a relationship that wasnt strictly educational.
I sighed; wishing life werent so damn complicated.
Rose continued to walk away from me, oblivious of my presence. A hint of a smile
spread across my lips. Rose, always breaking the rules, when will you ever learn?
Are you sleepwalking? I asked.
She spun around, startled. I stood there watching her amused and curious as to why
she was out here so late in the night. Plus it was kind of amusing to see her caught off
by surprise. Hastily she ran a hand through her long hair, which was matted and sticking
up everywhere from sleep.
I was testing dorm security, she said. It sucks.
A small smile played on my lips at the sound of that. I was about to reply when I noticed
ha small shiver go through her. Her eyes werent on me anymore; they were now clearly
focused on my jacket. Which was doing a lot better job at keeping me warm.
I took in her attire then. Her blue robe draped around her, down to her fuzzy slippers
that were now drenched from her walk in the snow. I may not be able to have a
relationship with her, but that didnt stop me from worrying about her safety.
You must be freezing. Do you want my coat? I asked ready to take it off at her
command.
She shook her head. Im fine. What are you doing out here. Are you testing security
too?
I am security. This is my watch. I said.
Well, good work. She said. Im glad I was able to help test your awesome skills. I
should be going now.
She turned to walk back the way she came. Her eyes hurt and betrayed, and looking
into them brought me back to the day in Spokane. When I and too many guardians to
count went in search for her and four other students from St. Vladimirs. Mason, Mia and
Eddie had ran from the ski resort in search for Stirgoi. They were revengeful for what
the vampires did to the two royal families in the past and planned to kill them all.
Rose had heard about it and took off, not bothering to tell me about it. And in the
process she wound up taking Christian with her as well. I thought at first it was to get
her boyfriend Mason back saftly. But really it was about saving all of their lives; she had
realized how stupid they were being and wanted to put some sense into them.
On their trip back the five of them ran into humans who had helped the Strigoi. Rose
and the other novices had put up a good fight, but in the end they had lost and were
held captive in a basement under a house. There the Strigoi had tortured Eddie and
teased the Moroi.
Eventually after two days of their captivation Rose had the idea of using offensive
magic. This was strictly prohibited and looked down upon. But that didnt stop Christian
from using fire to free them. When Rose and Mason had thought the cost was clear they
left the basement. Only to run into the two Strigoi that lived there.
Rose had got everyone out into the sunlight, leaving herself to die. She had put up a
very good fight, but not good enough for Mason who in the end got killed because of his
love for Rose. We had found them shortly after that.
Masons actions was the exact reason why I didnt want my love for Rose to get in the
way. I didnt want a risk like that to happen where we lost Lissa because of some
romance between Rose and I.
Rose--- I caught her arm, and despite all the wind and chill and slush, a flash of heat
shot through me. I released her with a start, she looked up at me shocked. As though
shed felt it too. What are you really doing out here? I used my strict voice then,
wanting a clear answer out of her.
I had a bad dream. I wanted some air.
For a moment my mind flashed back to my earlier thought of Spokane. I quickly pushed
it away. And so you just rushed out. Breaking the rules didnt even cross your mind---
and neither did putting on a coat.
Yeah, she said. That pretty much sums it up.
Rose, Rose. You never change. Always jumping in without thinking.
She furrowed her brow, a frown spread on her lips. Thats not true, she protested. Ive
changed a lot.
BloodRose screamingdead bodiesSpokaneflashed through my mind all at
once. And it was then that I realized never before had I been so scared in my life.
Scared for Roses safety, afraid that she will never be the same. And the death of her
best friend would scar her forever.
And as I had predicted it has given her a darker outlook on life. As well as everyone
here at St. Vladimirs Academy, but Rose especially.
She noticed my frown as my face shifted unpleasantly at the thoughts of what happened
three weeks ago. Well, dont worry. My birthdays coming up. As soon as Im eighteen,
Ill be an adult, right? Im sure Ill wake up that morning and be all mature and stuff.
I softened into a smile at her attempts of making a joke to cheer me up. Yes, Im sure.
What is it, about a month?
Thirty-one days. She announced primly.
Not that youre counting.
She shrugged, which made me laugh.
I suppose youve made a birthday list too. Ten pages? Single-spaced? Ranked by
order of priority? I was still smiling. It was one of my relaxed and amused ones that
rarely came out.
She smiled and opened her mouth to reply but then quickly shut is as her face turned
from happy to sad and hurt.
No. She said in a small voice. No list.
I tilted my head to get a better look at her, making some of my shoulder-length hair blow
into my face. My hair was brown, like Roses, but not nearly as dark. Hers looked black
at times. I brushed the unruly strands aside, only to have them immediately blow back
into my face. I cant believe you dont want anything. Its going to be a boring birthday
It doesnt matter. She said.
What do you--- I stopped, I understood then. From the look in her eyes I could tell
exactly what she meant. She wanted freedom. Being eighteen meant we could be
together, it meant we could be seen as a couple in public and not be questioned. It was
something she and I both wanted more than anything in the world. Yet we couldnt
have.
I understood. I always did. It was part of why we connected like we did, in spite of the
seven-year gap in our ages. Wed fallen for each other last fall when Id been her
combat instructor. As things heated up between us, wed found we had more things to
worry about than just age. We were both going to be protecting Lissa when she
graduated, and we couldnt let our feelings for each other distract us when she was our
priority.
I didnt think our feelings for each other were ever really going to go away. Wed both
had moments of weakness, moments that led to stolen kisses or saying things we really
shouldnt have. After she had escaped the Strigoi, I had told her that I loved her and
admitted I could never be with anyone else because of that. But we still couldnt be
together either and we had both slipped back into our old roles of keeping away from
each other and pretending that our relationship was strictly professional.
Looking down at Rose I could see her shiver, pulling her robe closer to her. I wanted to
change the subject, wanted to stop thinking about our love life and start taking action on
the now. You can deny it all you want, but I know youre freezing. Lets go inside. Ill
take you through the back.
Astonishment flashed in her eyes. And I knew it was at my abrupt change in subject
rather than me sneaking her around the campus. I think youre the one whos cold.
She teased, as we walked around the side of the dorm where the novice guardians
lived. Shouldnt you be all tough and stuff, since youre from Siberia?
I dont think Siberias exactly what you imagine.
I imagine it as an arctic wasteland. She said truthfully.
Then its definitely not what you imagine.
Do you miss it? she asked glancing back at me as I walked behind her.
All the time. I said my heart aching for my hometown. Sometimes I wish---
Belikov!
A voice was carried on the wind from behind us. I knew this was going to happen. I
muttered, too low for Rose to hear. I shoved her further around the corner shed just
rounded. Stay out of sight.
She ducked down behind a bank of holly trees that flanked the building. They didnt
have any berries. I turned from her then, putting on my mask as I walked up to Alberta,
who was standing in the middle of the courtyard. She was dressed in all black: black
jeans, black shirt and a black leather jacket.
Youre not on watch. I said trying to keep the surprise out of my voice as I stopped a
few feet from her.
No, but I need to talk to you. Itll just take a minute. We need to shuffle some of the
watches while youre at the trial.
I figured. I said trying to keep Victors trial secret from a eavesdropping Rose. Its
going to put a strain on everyone else---bad timing.
Yes, well, the queen runs on her own schedule. Alberta said frustrated as she ran a
hand through her short hair. Celeste will take your watches, and she and Emil will
divide up your training times.
I knew she was referring to the field experience starting tomorrow. Six weeks of hands-
on-practice for the novices. Theyd have no classes and would get to protect Moroi night
and day while the guardians tested them. Training times meant my participation in
that.
They say they dont mind the extra work, she continued, but I was wondering if you
could even things out and take some of their shifts before you leave?
Absolutely. I said words short and stiff. I was trying to keep Alberta from saying
anything that would tip Rose off. She didnt need to know about Victors trial. It would
worry her even more. And knowing her, she would be angrier at the fact that she and
Lissa cant go rather than him being proved innocent. This wouldnt happen.
Thanks I think thatll help. She sighed. Her face thoughtful. I wish I knew how long this
trial was going to be. I dont want to be away that long. Youd think itd be a done deal
with Dashkov, but now I hear the queens getting cold feet about imprisoning a major
royal.
Yeah. Thanks.
She walked away from me, and I stood in the snow watching her. I sighed and called
out to her. I didnt want her to think I was some mean teacher. Rose? She glanced
back. Im sorry, I said and then paused. My regret fading as I apologized. And youd
better bring the keys back tomorrow.
She turned away and kept going.
Chapter 2:
I walked silently across the campus, nodding at the guardian taking over my watch post.
The snow threatened to seep into my shirt so I pulled the duster closer to my chest.
Thanking God that I had remembered to bring it.
But according to Rose: I was nothing without my western wardrobe. She had told me
that the other day and I laughed at that. To her I was like some old cowboy ready for a
shootout. I smiled as I made my way to the main office where Kirova and Alberta were
waiting for me.
I approached the tall European-type building. Its massive shape casting long, dark and
spooky looking shadows along the unbroken snow. Seeing the ground like this,
untouched and not full of life brought me back a month ago when Rose and I had gone
to the Badica house to see Art.
A shiver went up and down my spine as I remembered that day clearly. Seeing one of
the greatest guardians lying dead on the floor made me cringe. And the way Tamaras
face looked as she took in her mentor made me realize that this could happen to
anyone.
Im sure Art put up a good fight, but not good enough. And for her to witness someone
close to her that made her who she was today, dead below her feet. Well, I promised
myself that I would never let that happen to Rose. I would never leave her, never hurt
her again.
I dont know how Tamara did it; Im positive if it were Rose looking down at me lying
lifeless on the floor she would have punched someone. Or rather done something
stupid, like avenge my death, and get killed doing it.
My heart squeezed painfully at the thought of Rose running after my killer and getting
killed herself.
Shaking my head I entered the building. The warm blast blew away any of my last
thoughts and brought me back to reality. That would never happen, we were here, safe,
and I will always have Rose.
Alberta was sitting in one of the lobbys chairs reading a book. She glanced up when the
door shut behind me. Smiling she stood up, placing the book on the coffee table next to
the chair, she walked towards Kirovas office.
Taking in a deep breath I entered the room. Kirova was a birdlike woman, who liked to
have her reading glasses perched on the edge of her long pointy nose. Nodding out of
respect I stood in the middle of the room next to Alberta, waiting for Kirova to gesture for
us to sit down.
She didnt.
Instead she ushered me forward, I did as I was told, walking around her massive desk
to stare at the computer screen. There was a list of times, dates and names before me,
as I read through it all I recognized what this was.
It was the guardians new schedule; due to Victors trial. Myself and several other
guardians that went on the rescue trip were going to it.
Victor still wasnt officially jailed yet. The queen had yet to assign a trial date, and didnt
like the fact that she was locking up a royal, and a huge one at that.
But looking at the computer screen I could visually see what the next six weeks would
be like. And like Alberta had said, Celeste took my watches, she and Emil divided up my
training times. Leaving me with less work to do and giving them more.
This will be the guardians schedule from here until Victors trial is finished. Kirova said
as she scrolled down the screen. Is there anything you want to change Belikov?
I looked at her astonished, never before had the Headmistress asked a person lower
than her to make up the schedule. I was honored but curious as to why. In answer she
ticked her fingers against the hardwood desk, clearly annoyed with me being quiet.
I cleared my throat. I see a few fillings I can do.
I took hold of the mouse and did several changes, adding and taking away a few so that
Celeste and Emil wouldnt have so much work. When I was done Kirova nodded and
looked it over, her fingers still clicking on the wood.
Eventually she saved it and sent it to the printer. The hum of the machine came to life,
easing the strange silence in the room. I relaxed a little as Alberta and I went over to
collect the massive amount of papers.
I want those all passed out to the guardians. Kirova said pointing a long skinny finger
in our direction. And dont mess it up. She gave us a level look before turning back to
her computer, apparently this conversation was over.
I hadnt realized how cold Kirovas room had been until I re-entered the lobby, the
heater nearly burned my skin as w
Alberta told me that we would pass them out after the first day of the field experience.
Reluctantly I went back to my dorm, happy to get some sleep in my schedule.

I was in the gym before anyone else, as usual. The guardians lined the walls and stood
in the middle of the gym. While the others set up the bleachers that the novices would
be sitting on in a few moments. I helped Alberta pass out the new schedules before the
first of the novices started showing up.
Eventually more and more started to arrive, and soon the bleachers were packed with
excited and anxious students. I spotted Rose among them, sitting next to Eddie. I
smiled sadly at that, both of them will never be the same, they had both lost their best
friend.
When the last of the students had arrived Albertas voice cut through the murmur of the
novices conversations. The instructors as well as myself had gathered in front of the
bleachers and had formed a line. Alberta was trying to call them to attention. The
crowed eventually fell silent.
All right, she began. Alberta was in her fifties, wiry and tough. You all know why
youre here. It was amazing, they had become so silent that Albertas voice rang
through the gym. This is the most important day of your education before you take your
final trials. Today you will find out which Moroi youve been placed with. Last week, you
were given a booklet with the full details of how the next six weeks will play out. I trust
youve all read it by now. I knew that was true, every single one of them needed to read
it if they wanted to graduate. Just to recap, Guardian Alto will highlight the main rules of
this exercise.
She handed the clipboard to Guardian Stan Alto. Here we go, said Stan gruffly. Youll
be on duty six days a week. This is actually a treat for you guys. In the real world youre
usually working every day. You will accompany your Moroi everywhere---to class, to
their dorms, to their feedings. Everything. Its up to you to figure out how you fit into their
lives. Some Moroi interact with their guardians just like friends; some Moroi prefer you
to be more of an invisible ghost who doesnt talk to them. Every situation is differ, and
you two will have to find a way to work it out to best ensure their safety.
Attacks may come at any time, anywhere, and well be dressed in all black when it
happens. You should always be on your guard. Remember, even though youll
obviously know its us doing the attacking and not a real Strigoi, you should respond as
though your lives are in terrible, immediate danger. Dont be afraid of hurting us. Some
of you, Im sure, wont have any qualms about getting us back for past grievances.
Students in the crowd giggled at this. But some of you may feel like you have to hold
back, for fear of getting in trouble. Dont. Youll get in more trouble if you do hold back.
Dont worry. We can take it.
He flipped to the next page of his clipboard. You will be on duty twenty-four hours a day
for your six-day cycles, but be aware that although Strigoi attacks are rare in daylight,
they arent impossible indoors, and you will not necessarily be safe during these
times.
His statement reminded me of the Badica house and the other recent Strigoi attacks. As
well as Spokane. Rose screaming at me, the smell of blood, and the terrible heartache
at that scene. My heart squeezed at the flash back, causing me to come back to the
present.
When Stan finished, he handed the clipboard to Alberta. Okay. She said. Im going to
call out your names one by one and announce who youre paired with. At that time,
come down here to the floor, and Guardian Chase will give you a packet containing
information about your Morois schedule, past, etcetera.
Everyone in the crowed straightened up as she flipped through the papers. Students
whispered. And I was reminded of my first time of field experience. They acted just as
we had.
Ryan Ayleworth. I could see Eddie and Rose flinch in surprise, and instantly I knew
why. Ashford, that was Masons last name, he was always the first to be called, but not
anymore. You are assigned to Camille Conta.
Ryan sat in the front row and grinned broadly as he walked over to take his packet. The
Contas were an up-and-coming royal family. Camille was known as cute, and all the
boys wanted in good with her. Ryan was the lucky one.
Dean Barnes, she said next. You have Jesse Zeklos.
Alberta kept reading names, and finally she reached the one I was dreading already.
I had been doing a lot of thinking over the past few weeks, and had made a last request
before the ceremony. Changing Lissas guardian from Rose to Eddie. I had insisted it
would help Rose with her training. And that had made Alberta consider. She knew I was
right, and it would provide a great experience for the both of them.
Edison Castile, Alberta announced. Vasilisa Dragomir.
I glanced up at Eddie and Rose. They were both frozen, eyes wide, mouths open.
Eventually sense came to him because he stood up with that same horrified look on his
face as he turned to look back at Rose, face white.
My eyes traveled back up to Rose. Her face lined with confusion, and soon enough rage
started to take over as she processed what had just happened. I silently coached her to
not shoot up and run down to Alberta and demand what happened.
Eventually she took a deep breath, closing her eyes. It was at that moment that my
chest lightened and I was proud of her for holding herself together. Although things
werent going to get better for her in a few minutes.
Alberta continued reading off names. When she got to the Hs thats when I started to
panic again. Rosemarie Hathaway, Christian Ozera.
Rose didnt move, she stared at Alberta, as if she forgot her name. A few students
around her turned around and coached her on, eager to get to their name. But she was
dumbfounded. Her eyes as wide as I had ever seen them.
A few moments later, Alberta also realized she wasnt moving. She looked up from her
clipboard with annoyance scanning the crowd. Rose Hathaway?
Someone elbowed her, pulling her out of her dream like trance. She stood up and
walked down the bleachers, robotlike. She headed toward Guardian Chase, who
handed her packet and a practice stake meant to kill the adult guardians with, and she
stepped out of the way for the next person.
She opened the packet as if in disbelief of what had happened. She continued to stand
by the door, waiting as more and more novices left to find their assignments. As more
names were called, many of the novices lingered around the gym, talking to their friends
and showing off their packets. Rose hovered near one group, obviously waiting for her
chance to come up and yell at one of the adults.
When the last novice had been assigned his Moroi, Stan shouted above the din for us to
move on to the next stage of the assignment and tried to herd out the novices. I walked
over to Alberta whispering so no one else could hear.
Rose is going to be very upset about her assignment.
Alberta shook her head. Its for the best I told you.
I sighed. Here she comes now. Try not to notice anythings wrong.
She nodded. About to say something when Rose approached and stood staring at us.
When we glanced at her she held up her packet and pointed. Whats this?
Alberta did a great job at making her face look blank and confused. Im pretty sure I
looked the same, although knowing Rose, I wouldnt be surprised if she saw past my
mask. Its your assignment, Miss Hathaway, Alberta said.
No, Rose said through gritted teeth. Its not. This is somebody elses assignment.
The assignments in your field experience arent optional, she told Rose sternly. Just
as your assignments in the real world wont be. You cant pick who you protect based
on whim and mood, not here and certainly not after graduation.
But after graduation, Im going to be Lissas guardian! Rose exclaimed. Everyone
knows that. Im supposed to have her for this thing.
I know its an accepted idea that youll be together after graduation, but I do not recall
any mandatory rulings that say youre supposed to have her or anyone here at school.
You take who youre assigned.
Christian? Rose through her packet on the floor. Youre out of your mind if you think
Im guarding him.
I knew Rose was out of control. And staring into her eyes I could see a weird darkness,
not quite anger, and not quite madness either. But something in between. And I knew
her well enough that something small as this shouldnt have caused this sudden
outburst. But the darkness vanished as quickly as it had appeared.
Rose! I snapped, joining the conversation at last. She flinched. Youre out of line. You
do not speak to your instructors like that.
Sorry. She said with reluctance. But this is stupid. Nearly as stupid as not bring us to
Victor Dashkovs trial.
I flinched at that. Alberta blinked. How did you know---Never mind. Well deal with that
later. For now, this is your assignment, and you need to do it.
Eddie suddenly appeared near rose. His voice filled with apprehension. LookI dont
mindWe can switch
Alberta turned her stony gaze from Rose to him. No, you certainly cannot. Vasilisa
Dragomir is your assignment. She looked back at Rose. And Christian Ozera is yours.
End of discussion.
This is stupid! Rose repeated frustrated. Why should I waste my time with Christian?
Lissas the on Im going to be with when I graduate. Seems like if you want me to be
able to do a good job, you should have me practice with her.
You will do a good job with her. I replied. Because you know her. And you have your
bond. But somewhere, someday, you could end up with a different Moroi. You need to
learn how to guard someone with whom you have absolutely no experience.
I have experience with Christian. She grumbled back. Thats the problem. I hate him.
I was surprised to hear that. After all she was the one who kept four of our Academys
students safe. Even if one out of the four did die. She did her best to keep them safe.
So much the better, said Alberta. Not everyone you protect will be your friend. Not
everyone you protect will be someone you like. You need to learn this.
I need to learn how to fight Strigoi, she said. Ive learned that in class. She fixed us
with a sharp look. And Ive done it in person.
Theres more to this job than the technicalities, Miss Hathaway. Theres a whole
personal aspect---a bedside manner, if you will---that we dont touch on much in class.
We teach you how to deal with the Strigoi. You need to learn how to deal with the Moroi
yourselves. And you in particular need to deal with someone who has not been your
best friend for years.
You also need to learn what its like to work with someone when you cant instantly
sense that theyre in danger, I added.
I had observed after Spokane that part of the reason why Mason had gotten hurt was
that Rose didnt know what his exact thoughts were. What he was about to do. And
because of that dependant she has on Lissa lead to his death.
Right, agreed Alberta. thats a handicap. If you want to be a good guardian---if you
want to be an excellent guardian---then you need to do as we say.
Rose opened her mouth to fight us, but I quickly cut her off.
Working with another Moroi will also help keep Lissa alive. I said.
That shut her down. It was the only thing that could have, and I knew she knew that.
What do you mean? She asked.
Lissas got a handicap too---you. If she never has a chance to learn what its like to be
guarded by someone without a psychic connection, she could be at greater risk if
attacked. Guarding someone is really a two-person relationship. This assignment for
your field experience is as much for her as for you.
She stayed silent processing what I had just told her.
And, added Alberta. Its the only assignment youre going to get. If you dont take it,
then you opt out of the field experience.
Rose knew there was no way out of this if she wanted to graduate. And knowing her
she did badly. I could see it in her eyes. The determination and the fire that I loved so
much about her, and that made me fall for her for the first place.
Reluctantly she picked up the packet. Fine, she said icily. Ill do this. But I want it
noted that Im doing this against my will.
I think we already figured that out, Miss Hathaway, remarked Alberta dryly.
Whatever. I still think its a horrible idea, and you eventually will too. Rose said as she
stalked off across the gym before any of us could reply.
I silently shook my head, Rose, always getting the last word in a conversation by
storming off.
Chapter 3:
After the rest of the novices had left the guardians and I got together reading over the
new schedule. Each of them nodding in agreement as they looked the assignments
over. My attack would be the first one of the day. And Emil was my Strigoi in crime.
Smiling down at the white paper before me I thought of which student will be the lucky
one.
After looking over and answering questions Alberta dismissed us. The guardians
dispersed as I walked into the cool night air. The snow crunched below my feet as I
made my way to my dorm. It was necessary for all guardians to wear black during the
field experience.
This wardrobe helps disguise us and make us appear more invisible amongst the
shadows. Most guardians wear black all the time, both on duty and off. Its the only
weapon we have that helps us become immune to the Strigois strong eyesight.
After getting dressed in my black leather duster, black pants and a tight knitted black
shirt I made my way through the school. Classes had just started so I had enough time
to meet up with Emil before attacking someone.
We walked in the shadows of the trees, weaving through them reminded me of the day
myself and several other guardians set out to save Lissa from Victor. Except this time
we didnt have the sun beating down on our heads.
One of the last bells rang then. Emil and I knew we had to attack soon, and
Ryan interrupted the fight when he lunged at me with his stake. He almost killed me
before I grabbed his neck. Indicating that I cracked it and he was now dead.
Eddies face twisted at this sight, his eyes turning a dark color. His mouth was set in a
grim line as if I really were a Strigoi.
If it werent for the attack in Spokane I would have thought Eddies expression and
determination to kill me was because he wanted a good grade. But seeing his eyes I
knew it was much more than that. Spokane had scarred him. He was revengeful for his
friends death and what the Strigoi did to him.
I didnt blame him, he was so young and had witnessed too much. Just as Rose had.
I realized what I had just done, I killed Ryan the same way the Strigoi in Spokane had
killed Mason. I silently cursed myself for my actions; for what I had just done to Eddie.
I pushed these thoughts away when both he and Shane attacked, they barely rocked
me but it was enough to make me stagger back. This was the open window they
needed. And they knew it.
Before I could block them they placed the stake over my heart, indicating that I was now
dead. I smiled up at the now panting boys.
Emil offered a hand and helped me stand up as I rubbed the part of my head that Eddie
had hit. We praised Shane for being fast on his feet and Eddie for realizing they had to
treat this as a group endeavor rather than one-on-one trials.
Ryan was chastised for not paying attention to his Moroi and not acting upon impulse
when he saw the danger Camille was in. So much for liking her
Kyle mentioned Roses efforts in staying behind and keeping an eye out for both her
and Eddies Moroi. This shocked me; I hadnt even known she was here, and was
surprised that her impulsiveness didnt take her over and make her join the fight.
We nodded approval in Roses direction. She smiled as Eddie approached her and their
Moroi. They high-fived and I shook my head as I turned away and left.

As I continued to walk around the campus I couldnt help but think of the way Eddies
eyes bore into mine. For a moment I truly thought I was a Strigoi. Because of the
hatred and longing that Eddies eyes held. I shivered at that, never before had I though
myself as being a threat and the enemy
Chapter 4:
As I make my way across the campus I couldnt help but chastise myself over what I
had just done. How stupid it was of me to kill Ryan that way And as I walked within
the long casting shadows of the trees images of Eddies face flashed through my brain.
The way his face fell, once full of skill and determination, was replaced by hatred,
longing and most of all revenge. Never before had I seen something like that, even in a
guardian twice my age. What I saw in Eddie today was brought by a simple act that
happened in Spokane.
And it was my entire fault.

I was assigned another attack in a few more minutes, so I knew I needed to get my act
together if I wanted to give these novices a challenge.
Straightening up I took a deep breath of the midnight air. The moon was bright enough
to eliminate the path in front of me with its silvery glow. It was the final period of the day
and within that period I was issued to attack.
I cleared my head of any thoughts from earlier as I made my way to the classrooms on
eastside campus. As I drew closer I looked around to make sure no other guardians had
chosen this spot. Satisfied to see none I sulked in the shadows moving as if I were a
snake gliding across a black lake.
When I reached the classroom I looked through the window. Novices were lined against
the wall trying their best to look like professional guardians. Though I could tell by their
stature that their feet were killing them after a long day of standing.
I smiled as I picked the farthest window, the one that was hard to see from the angle
they were in. Quietly I unlatched the lock and slipped the window upward, just enough
to squeeze through.
There I waited
The teacher was lecturing the students on a new math lesson. Most of the classmates
paid attention, while the rest pretended to be somewhat interested, although I could tell
from the dazed look in their eyes they were fighting to stay awake.
Eventually the tiredness in a redheaded boy gave in; he passed out on his math book. It
didnt take long for the teacher to notice, and when she did she turned to him and yelled
so loud it even made me jump. The whole class turned their focus on the now aroused
kid. Even the novices standing in the back.
Thats when I made my move.
Sliding silently through the windows open frame I managed to get on my feet and take a
couple of steps before the novices turned around.
I grabbed the first Moroi I could. Which happened to be a blonde headed girl with big
blue eyes. She screamed, not faking her fear as she thrashed around in my grasp.
The teachers high pitch voice stopped, it fell silent as all eyes turned in my direction.
Even the novices in the back seemed startled by my sudden attack.
What I guessed to be her guardian came after me then. He was about six feet and
packed full of muscle. As all dhampirs were. He managed to land a blow on me as I
pushed the girl behind, keeping her from his gasp.
This pissed him off even further, causing him to shout orders at the other novices
behind him. A redheaded girl came running forward, while another disappeared from my
line of sight.
They had obviously thought of an attack plan. And it was a good one at that. They gave
me the disadvantage of using my blind spots. No one had eyes in the back of their
head, unfortunately.
The girl sided with the boy as we squared off, my hand still firmly grasped on the
Morois wrist. The redheaded girl lashed out at me, almost landing a blow before I
killed her. She fell on the ground and laid still.
The Morois guardian stopped and lunged out at me as well. I threw a punch in his
direction, meaning to deflect his attack. But he was just as quick and caught hold of my
hand in mid air. He had a strong grip on me, and as much as I fought back he wouldnt
let go of that hand. My struggles made him smile.
Furious I was about to let go of the girl to break free of the novices grasp when a blow
landed on my back, causing me to fall down. Following that was a sharp pain in the
head. And before I knew it I felt the cool surface of the stake on my back, right where
my heart was.
I let go of the Moroi and kneeled on one knee. Smiling up at the boy who had grabbed
hold of my hand. Great job Stow.
He laughed and offered a hand up. I took it.
After a few minutes of congratulating the girl who had managed to knock me down I left.
I was halfway across campus when I ran into Alberta. I would have nodded and
continued on my way if it werent for the troubled look in her eye.
Catching hold of her arm I willed her to look at me. Whats wrong?
She looked around, face falling even more. Its Rose.
I perked up at that, ready to run to her rescue if it werent for Albertas reassuring
squeeze on my shoulder. Shes fine, its justwellshe was sent to the
Headmistresss office for not defending her and Castiles Moroi.
My god Rosewhat have you done now?
Chapter 4:
It turns out as we made our way to the office Roses actions were turned to the schools
guardians disciplinary committee. This was very rare. A novice had to do something
pretty serious to piss them off to get that sort of response. Like willfully endangering a
Moroi.
Shaking my head as we made our way to the guardians office I tried to imagine what
Rose did to put herself in this situation. And all of her actions didnt seem to fit.
Setting a Moroi on fire nope.
Staking a Moroi instead of her attacker hell no.
Handing her Moroi over to the Strigoi no.
Flipping off Christian and walking away letting him face the attackermmm, no Rose
would never.
Then what could it possibly be that Rose did this time? Shes done some stupid things
while Ive been around but in the end they were for the good. Not for the bad. So
hearing that Rose did this kind of thing upsets and puzzles me.
Well I guess well have to find out when we arrive.
The buildings in view now, the way the trees surround it makes it hard for one traveling
to make out that theres a building ahead, unless youre looking for a small medieval
one of course.
We entered a small meeting room with a large table in the center of it. I rarely come
here, guarding Lissa and training Rose are my specialties now.
The committee felt it only fair to kick me off because I was Roses mentor. I think its
because they assume Rose will be the next novice to step inside this room. And in
many ways theyre right. This only makes me more furious.
Quietly Alberta and I sneak into the room; the guardians are already seated around the
oak table. Waiting for Roses arrival. I wasnt surprised to see that she was yet again
late.
And thats a good sign.
After taking my place in the back, Alberta walks around the long table taking her seat at
the head of the table. Watching the door, waiting for Rose to arrive.
Minutes pass by, making me think shes managed to escape this punishment. Im about
to speak up and tell the others that we should look for her when the door bangs open
and in comes Stan, following him a pissed off Rose.
Her eye catches mine as she takes her seat at the far end of the table. Her eyes
swimming with questions and hope that I will get her out of this one. Not likely.
After a brief report on what happened from Stan the rest of the committee turn their
attention towards Rose. At first everyone is silent, not knowing what to say to this simple
act. I dont even know what to say to it. And I know Rose.
Stan nods when hes finished and walks off to stand next to me. It takes my whole will
not to turn around and demand to tell me the truth. Instead my eyes fall on Roses
catching her eye, I will her to understand that I will do everything against my power to
get her out of this. I know Rose she will never do this.
After about a minute Alberta speaks up asking Rose for her side of the story. After she
finishes with the same story reported by Stan Alberta starts questioning her.
Things like: did you do it on purpose, who was with you, why did you do it, why would
you freeze? I could tell al the questions were starting to get to Rose. The way her eyes
darkened, her hands curled up into fists, her back hunched over like she was about to
attack.
This made me stiffen as well, ready to jump on Rose if she tried anything stupid.
Fortunately she didnt move, just sat there like a statue ready to explode with anger.
For the last time, she growled, I didnt do it on purpose.
She was facing a full on committee now, all eyes turned to her as her voice got deeper
with anger. Alberta, Emile, and Celeste sat at the long table, looking imposing, while
Rose continued to sit in that single chair.
Miss Hathaway, said Alberta, fully in her strict-captain mode, which was a different
turnaround from the woman I just saw looking frantically around. You must know why
we have a hard time believing that.
Celeste nodded. Guardian Alto saw you. You refused to protect tow Moroi---including
the one whose protection you were specifically assigned to.
I didnt refuse! Rose exclaimed, her pitch in voice brought me back to the first day she
arrived at the Academy. Only she was facing Kirovia and the possibility of being
expelled from school. Ifumbled.
I looked at her shocked. Stopped in mid thought. Never before has Rose fumbled. I
know from personal experience in the gym with her. I know from the way she watches
Lissa, even under the safety of the wards. I seen the way she looked when we rescued
her from the Strigoi house in Spokane. I know Rose well enough to testify that she has
never fumbled in her life.
Everyone at the table seemed to be sharing the same thoughts. We all saw her in that
house of Strigoi. The way she risked her life to save her friends. The way she went
ravage and killed two Strigoi with a dull blade.
Stan seemed to be thinking the same thing because he stepped forward, in my field of
vision. That wasnt a fumble, he glanced at Alberta for permission to speak. May I?
She nodded, and he turned back to Rose. If youd blocked or attacked me and then
messed up, that would be a fumble. But you didnt b lock. You didnt attack. You didnt
even try. You just stood there like a statue and did nothing.
I could tell by the way Roses eyes glared at him she was outraged. And I knew why.
The simple thought that she would put a Morois life in danger pissed her off. She was
capable of killing Strigoi, she never would put her life before a Morois. Spokane proved
that.
Why am I getting in trouble for messing up? she asked tightly. I mean, I saw Ryan
mess up earlier. He didnt get in trouble. Isnt that the point of this whole exercise?
Practice? If we were perfect, youd already have unleashed us upon the world! Her
voice was rising at every word. Making me want to run over and protect her from what
was about to come next.
werent you listening? Said Stan, and by his tone I could tell he was just as upset as
Rose was. And was the only one showing his emotions, besides Rose of course. But
that doesnt count, shes reckless and that means to unleash every emotion she has on
the world. You didnt mess up, because messing up implies that you have to actually
do something.
Okay, then. I froze. She looked at him defiantly, not letting go of his gaze. Does that
count as messing up? I cracked under the pressure and blanked out. It turns out I
wasnt prepared. The moment came, and I panicked. It happens to novices all the time.
I cringed at her words. Knowing that they were the wrong ones to place down. Because
even a person who fought real Strigoi, and came back to tell the story, never freeze.
To a novice who has already killed Strigoi? Asked Emil. He was from Romania, his
accent was a bit thicker than most at the Academy. It seems unlikely.
Rose s eyes turned into dark slits, her way of showing how irritated she was. She
scanned the room, landing on everyones face but mine, giving them her all. Oh, I see.
Oh dear. After one incident, Im not expected to be an expert Strigoi killer? I cant panic
or be afraid or anything? Makes sense. Thanks, guys. Fair. Real fair. She slumped
back in her seat, arms crossed over her chest.
Alberta sighed and leaned forward. Were arguing semantics. Technicalities arent the
point here. Whats important is that this morning, you made it very clear you did not
want to guard Christian Ozera. In fact.I think you even said you wanted us to be sure we
knew that you were doing it against your will and that wed soon see what a horrible
idea it was. Realization flashed in her eyes, knowing that what she had said earlier was
true. Alberta saw this as well. And then, when your first test comes around, we find you
completely and utterly unresponsive.
I sucked in a breath. That will do it for Rose.
I knew I was right when she nearly flew out of her c hair. Thats what this is about? You
think I didnt protect him because of some kind of weird revenge thing?
All three of them stared at her Expectantly.
You arent exactly known for calmly and gracefully accepting things you dont like,
Alberta replied wryly.
This time, Rose did stand up, pointing her finger at her accusingly. Not true. I have
followed every rule Kirova laid down for me since coming back here. Ive gone to every
practice and obeyed every curfew. Theres no reason Id do this as some kind of
revenge! What good would it do? Sta-Guardian Alto wasnt going to really hurt Christian,
So its not like Id get to see him punched or anything. The only thing I would accomplish
is getting dragged into the middle of something like this and possibly face removal from
the field experience.
You are facing removal from the field experience, replied Celeste flatly.
My heart sank at that, pulling Rose out was unacceptable. We needed more novices,
girls at that. They cant just throw a talent like hers away.
Oh Rose said as she sat down. Hearing her, wounded and defeated. Well I couldnt
take it anymore.
She has a point. If she were going to protest or take revenge, shed do it in a different
way.
Celeste frowned at me. Yes, but after the scene she made this morning
I took a few steps forward and stood beside Rose. I had a flash of dj vu, back to when
Lissa and Rose had returned to the Academy last autumn. Headmistress Kirova had
nearly expelled Rose, and I had stood up for her then too.
This is all circumstantial, I said. Regardless of how suspicious you think it looks,
theres no proof. Removing her from the experience---and essentially ruining her
graduation---is a bit extreme without any certainties.
The committee looked thoughtful, and Rose was looking hopefully in Albertas way. She
had the most power here. She would decide if Rose can stay or not. I hope she chose
for Rose to stay, knowing I tried my best to defend her.
She beckoned Celeste and Emile toward her, and the other two guardians leaned
closer. They had a whispered conference. Alberta gave a resigned nod, and the others
leaned back.
I could feel the way my body shook as sweat dripped down my face. Come on, come
on.
Miss Hathaway, do you have anything youd like to say before we tell you our
conclusions?
Looking down at Rose I could tell that she was already condoling up a million things to
spit back in their faces. The sweat increased. Minutes passed before she responded.
No, Guardian Petrov. Nothing more to add.
All right, she said wearily. Heres what weve decided. Youre lucky you have
Guardian Belikov to advocate for you, or this decision might have been different. Were
giving you the benefit of the doubt. Youll go on with the field experience and continue to
guard Mr. Ozera. Youll just be on a probation of sorts.
I could hear the sigh of relief coming from both Rose and I. Thats okay. Thank you.
And, she added. Uh-oh. Because the suspicion isnt entirely removed, youll be
spending your day oof this week doing community service.
Rose jumped out of her chair again. What?
I reflexively wrapped a hand around her wrist, controlling her to stay put, as if she were
a dog. Sit down, I murmured in her ear as I tugged her toward the chair. take what
you can get.
If thats a problem, we can make it next week too. Warned Celeste. And the next five
after that.
Rose sat down obediently and shook her head. Im sorry. Thank you.
The hearing dispersed.
Alberta ordered Rose to find Christian but I stepped in between. Asking her if I could
talk to Rose alone, novice business I think I said. She agreed, no doubt hoping Id set
Rose on the straight and narrow.
The room emptied, I sighed of relief, finally able to breathe. I walked over to a small
table that held a water dispenser, coffee, other beverages, but I was looking for a
specific one.
You want some hot chocolate? I asked.
By the hesitation in her stance I could tell she didnt expect that. Sure.
I dumped four packets of instant hot chocolate into tow Styrofoam cups and then added
in hot water.
Doubling it is the secret, I told her when the cups were full. My mother taught me this
when I was still a child.
I handed her hers, along with a wooden stirrer, and then walked toward the side door.
Presuming she was going to follow me.
Where are we---oh.
We were in a glass-enclosed porch filled with small patio tables. The windows looked
out onto the courtyard, the glass encased with frost.
I swept my hand over a chair, brushing off the dust. Rose followed and sat down
opposite of me. The room was cold, the air felt chilly and I could tell it was getting to
Rose by the way she kept her hands around the cup, protectively. Silence fell between
us. The only noise came from Rose blowing on her hot chocolate. I drake mine right
away. I find hot chocolate best when its hot, freshly made.
As we sat, and the quiet grew, Rose studied me. As did I but I wasnt looking directly at
her. I couldnt help but take in those dark locks of hers, the way her eyes as dark as the
hot chocolate could be so evil yet loving towards me. Her lips that were so soft and
wonderful, yet at the same time can turn into something entirely different, mean,
scolding, set in a grim line. It was like kissing a flower pedal. A rose.
After a while I couldnt take it anymore. What happened out there? I said as I met her
gaze. You didnt crack under the pressure.
She considered this. Of course it was, she told me as she looked down into her cup.
Unless you believe I really did let Stan attack Christain.
That was the last thing I wanted her to think. No. I dont believe that. I never did. I knew
youd be unhappy when you found out about the assignments, but I never once doubted
that youd do what youd have to for this. I knew you wouldnt let your personal feelings
get in the way of your duty.
She looked up again and met my eyes. I didnt. I was madStill am a little. But once I
said Id do it, I meant it. And after spending some time with himwell, I dont hate him. I
actually think hes good for Lissa, and he cares about her, so I cant get upset about
that. He and I just clash sometimes, thats allbut we did really well together against
the Strigoi. I remembered that while I was with him today, and arguing against this
assignment just seemed stupid. So I decided to do the best job I could.
She was rambling. A sign she was trying to hide something. Rose never talked this
much.
What happened then? I asked. With Stan?
She adverted her eyes and played with her cup again. It took her a good five minutes
before she looked back up at me. I dont know what happened out there. My intentions
were goodI justI just messed up.
I could tell she was lieing. It was just the way we were connected. Why we were
attracted to each other. Rose. Youre a terrible liar.
She glanced up at that. No, Im not. Ive told a lot of good lies in my life. People have
believed them.
I smiled slightly. Im sure. But it doesnt work with me. For one thing, you wont look me
in the eye. As for the otherI dont know I can just tell.
By the way her eyes met mine I could tell she knew I was right. She noticed it too, the
way we connected the way we did. Look, I appreciate you being worried about mebut
really, its okay. I just messed up. Im embarrassed about it---and sorry I put your
awesome training to shame---but Ill rebound. Next time, Stans ass is mine.
She was almost to the door. I couldnt let her go, not now. Not after everything thats
happened to her. And I needed to know why she was lying. To me, out of all people.
I placed a hand on her shoulder, making her freeze. I didnt touch her anywhere else. I
didnt even try to pull her closer. Rose. I dont know why youre lying, but I know you
wouldnt do it without a good reason. And if theres something wrong---something youre
afraid to tell the others---
She spun around rapidly, somehow managing to pivot in place in such a way that my
hand never moved yet ended up on her other shoulder.
Im not afraid, she cried. I do have my reasons, and believe me, what happened with
Stan was nothing. Really. All of this is just something stupid that got blown out of
proportion. Dont feel sorry for me or feel like you have to do anything. What happened
sucks, but Ill just roll with it and take the black mark. Ill take care of everything. Ill take
care of me. Her whole body was tense under my hand. Something that was hard to
ignore.
I didnt say anything. I just looked down at her. I was worried, concerned for her well
being. But also because somethings occurring in Rose. Something I fear is beyond my
control. And thats what scares me the most. Because if I lose her, I lose life itself.
My fingers tightened at the thought of that. You dont have to do this alone. I said at
last. The thought of losing her made my heart ache and I knew it showed in my voice.
She attempted a smile, as if to cheer me up. You say thatbut tell me the truth. Do
you go running to others when you have problems?
Thats not the same---
Answer the question, comrade.
Dont call me that.
And dont avoid the question either.
No I try to deal with my problems on my own.
She slipped away from my hand. See?
That simple gesture made my earlier thoughts of losing her soar. But you have a lot of
people in your life you can trust, people who care about you. That changes things.
She looked up in surprise. You dont have people who care about you?
I frowned. Rethinking my words. Well, Ive always had good people in my lifeand
there have been people who cared about me. But that doesnt necessarily mean I could
trust them or tell them everything.
She stared at me, studying my words and my expression. This time I let them slip,
because I wanted her to see that she shouldnt be ashamed of locking up her emotions.
Do you trust me? She asked.
I hesitated, only for a moment. Yes.
Then trust me now, and dont worry about me just this once.
She stepped away, out of the reach of my arm, I didnt stop her. Only watched her as
she slipped away from me. Just like I had feared she might do.
Chapter 6:
After I watched Rose go I continued to stand in the chilly room. I knew it was out of my
place to show my feelings like that, but I couldnt help it. Especially after I took notice in
her eyes today. The way they looked so crazed, as if she had gone insane. Yet at the
same time, they looked lost, as if she didnt know where she was. A look that said she
has truly lost grasp of reality.
The same look Ive seen in someone else, although I cant place my finger on it.
Deciding it was time to fulfill the rest of my guardian duties I stepped out of the room
and was faced with Alberta.
She had been sitting at the table, but now was standing staring at me. As if she had
read all my thoughts.
Guardian Petrov. I said as I acknowledged her with a nod.
She nodded back, confusion in her eyes as she did so. Belikov can I have a moment
with you?
Like she had to ask, I was obliged to do what she said twenty-four seven. Although the
question made me feel like an equal. Of course.
She gestured to the seat across from her, which I took without hesitation. After a
moment she sat down as well, staring at me from across the long table. I placed my
hands in my lap, thrumming them softly on my leg as I waited for her to talk.
She cleared her throat after several moments of studying me. I need to talk to you
about Rose.
A million things went through my mind at that moment. Does she know about our love
for each other? Has she found out that Ive been lying and telling Rose confidential
guardian things? My head spun, imagining all the consequences my future might hold.
My hands sweated as I waited for her to go on.
Looking distantly out the blackened window she continued. She seems strange. Ive
known Rose her whole life, and never once has she frozen like that. Ive seen her train
with you, shes relentless and powerful. The incident in Spokane proves just that.
My eyes dropped from her face. Rose. The metallic smell of blood. Bodies everywhere.
Screaming. Tears running down her cheeks as she hovered over Mason, threatening to
kill us all.
I pushed the haunting memories back, not wanting to show Alberta any weakness. She
took my silence to her advantage.
All Im saying is that what happened with Rose out there was no ordinary lock up.
Especially for a dhampir like her. A novice who has been protected and guarded all their
life, sure, I can see them freezing at the first sight of danger. But Rose isnt any ordinary
student; she has potential, and has experience. Something that hasnt happened to a
young novice like her in a very long time.
Even a guardian who has killed a Strigoi never freezes at the sign of danger. Especially
with a Moroi involved. I guess what Im getting at is that Rose is hiding something, and
possibly lying. Im asking you to tell me what that is.
Her eyes were like daggers, piercing into my soul. Demanding to know everything Rose
hadnt told me in the glass encased room. I cleared my throat, ready to tell her a lie that
I knew could get me in huge trouble. But for Rose, it was worth it.
She was ready, ready to fight Guardian Alto when she got distracted; she told me a
student walking in the distance reminded her of Mason. With red hair and the same
build anyone at that great of a distance can look like him. She froze, thinking he was
back from the dead. When I asked her why she didnt jump back in the fight, she told
me it was too late, Alto had seized both boys.
Alberta stared at me, taking this all in. Watching her sit there staring at me in the silent
room didnt help my nerves. I wanted out of here, away from all of this. I wanted them to
leave Rose alone about her hesitation.
After what seemed like forever Alberta finally nodded. That seems very possible; Ill
remember that next time when Rose tries to use it as an excuse. Not likely.
I nodded and stood up smiling as I walked towards the door. Ill make sure that doesnt
happen then.
Chapter 7:
As I walked towards my dorm a few lingering Moroi and dhampir students hurried to
their rooms, knowing they were out past curfew. A few glanced my way and caught my
eye; this only made them walk faster, eyes locked on the ground, trying to avoid the ice
on the stone path.
I had the authority to write them up, but I really didnt feel like doing the paperwork.
There was a lot of signing and explaining that I was too tried for.
As I neared the novices dorms I caught sight of Lissa, Christian, Eddie, and behind
them Rose. I could sneak up on them right now and attack, but I decided against it.
Rose had gone through a lot today and I didnt have a slot scheduled at this time. And if
I did choose to test the four of them I would have to sign more paperwork.

The next few days were slow. At this point of time in the testing, we were ordered not to
attack. It builds suspense and teaches novices and Moroi alike that years could pass
without a guardian ever having to engage in any sort of conflict. They will learn patience
and the importance of not slacking because thered been no danger in a while.
And knowing Rose this activity had to be killing her.
The novices were also being held to the strictest conditions a guardian could be in:
always standing and always being formal. More often than not, guardians who lived with
Moroi families behaved casually in their homes and did ordinary things like reading or
watching TV---while still staying perfectly aware of any threats. But we couldnt always
expect that, so the novices had to practice the hard way while in school.

Later that day Alberta caught sight of me and pulled me off to the side. Her face hard as
stone, as well as her eyes.
I just talked to Vasilisa. Her voice was hushed but I could detect the betrayal and
harshness in it.
This shocked me. So much that I was speechless as I continued to stare down at her.
Alberta took my silence to her advantage. She wanted to know if she and Rose could
go to Victors trial. Her eyes pierced into mine and I could feel my body recoil. I had
made a terrible mistake.
At the same time I felt stupid for thinking that Rose was able to keep a guardian secret. I
had been so blinded by my love for her that I hadnt realized the consequences of telling
a novice private guardian stuff.
But then again, not everything can turn out for the worst.
A small flicker of hope sparked in my chest as I stared evenly at Alberta. What did you
say?
She shook her head, I told her no, that its out of the question. She glared at me then,
crushing all the hope I had built up. What did you tell her?
I cleared my throat not wanting to back away, and show weakness towards her. I didnt
tell her. I told Rose. Alberta started to chastise me about how wrong that was but I cut
her off. Rose was sick the other night and needed to go outside for some air. I caught
her just outside of the novice dorms and was about to send her back when you came
up. She ran and hid in the bushes and I didnt have time to get her out before you
rounded the corner and came into earshot. She heard everything; its one of the
reasons why I was giving you blunt answers so she wouldnt find out about the trial. But
when she did she told me shed keep it a secret.
I knew I shouldnt of had sold Rose out like that but it wasnt entirely her fault. And I
knew the way I worded it sounded like it was Albertas for revealing so much that night.
She must have had caught on this too because she sighed and looked around the
deserted campus. I cant believe you trusted Rose to keep that a secret.
What else was I supposed to do? She knew about it. And by the time you left I couldnt
come up with a lie even if I tried.
Alberta smiled a small sad smile at me, youre right, I just dont know what to do.
Vasilisa was very convincing when she asked if she could go to the trial. Its justwell, I
dont think the Queen would like it very much if she found out we brought minors to the
trial of a royal.
The spark of hope from earlier started to rise. So what are you saying? My heart was
beating fast now, wanting more than anything to make Rose happy. And going to
Victors trial would bring a smile to her face Im sure of it.
Alberta turned to go but not before her voice caught over the wind. Ill try.
My heart almost burst out of my chest, even if it meant that Alberta would fail it was
enough for me. Shell try

Chapter 8:
I left Alberta then, wondering if she really would try to get Rose and Lissa into Victors
trial. It wasnt just because of Rose; it was also because I knew how much Victor had
hurt Lissa, and how much she wanted to see him locked up. If I had been in her place I
would worry myself sick every night wondering if my torturer would walk free, if he would
seek me out for revenge.
But then again if I were Lissa I wouldnt worry because I knew I had Rose to protect
me. And shes the most selfless and bravest person Ive ever met.

I made it to the front door of the novice dorms when Stan stormed passed me. On any
other day I would have nodded slightly and walked on, but something was wrong. I
could tell by the slump in his shoulders and the limp in his step.
Lost another fight again? I called after him, smirking a little and letting it vanish before
he could see it.
Stans eyes were cold and piercing as he looked up at me. I hated the way he met my
eyes. It wasnt the look of an equal, and it most definitely wasnt in the look of awe, it
was as if he were sizing me up, ready to challenge me at any moment. If he and I
werent guardians at this school, only novices like Rose, I would take that challenge
and show him whos stronger. But since Im above threats and snide comments I lean
back against the rocky building and stare down at him, slightly amused.
His eyes narrow as he nears me. Eddies hard to fight. I nodded; we both were
thinking the same thing: Eddie had real experience with Strigoi, conscious or
unconscious that event will always stick with Castile.
Hes hard to catch. I said as I recalled the fight in the hallway only a few days ago.
Eddie was strong, and fast, and it was at that moment I realized he was going to be a
killer guardian one day.
Stan rubbed the side of his jaw where he had taken a few hits. Yeah, well it wasnt him
that Im mad about. He stood straight and looked me right in the eye; my whole body
screamed threat. Its Rose.
My heart nearly stopped at the sound of her name. Rose? Again? I couldnt believe it, I
knew Rose well enough to know that she would never back down from a fight, and
certainly not after a failed one either.
Stan took my silence to his advantage, I attacked Lissa, and instantly both Rose and
Eddie jumped in. Castile got to me first so while we were circling Rose kept following us,
waiting for an opening to join him. She left both Moroi unattended. Im really starting to
think Rose has some revenge plot against Christian
As Stan continued to talk about the attack and how wrong it was I continued to stand
there, frozen. Rose couldnt possibly be doing badly, she has had experience, Ive
fought her countless number of times in the gym. She has potential and most of all skill.
If anything she should be the top student and should be praised for her efforts in
keeping her Moroi safe.
If I were in Stans position I would have thought Rose to be revengeful and against
being Christians guardian. I would have had her reported to Kirova again for her lack of
efforts in keeping Christian safe.
But I know Rose. She wouldnt have caused this big of a mistake without a good
reason. Whether it was the same as last time Ill never know. But one things for sure,
Rose is a fighter, and she would never back down, especially with Stan involved as her
attacker. She probably was trying too hard to regain her position in the field experience,
since last time she failed to do anything.
No, Rose would never leave a Moroi unprotected. Spokane is full proof.
She was suspicious for not taking action the minute it was handed to her. And now
shes just outright witless weak for---
Stan didnt even get to finish before I grabbed hold of his collar and rammed him against
the side of the novice building. His eyes widened as I kept him there with his feet
dangling in the air. I glared at him, his face level with mine, as I spoke softly, dont you
ever call Rose stupid. I hissed, the sound was foreign to me, never before had I known
to be capable of such brutality.
Stan cleared his throat not taking his eyes off of me, which said he wanted this, he
wanted a fight; knowing I had a soft spot for Rose. And all he had to do was spark it and
I would take action. But I didnt care; Rose wasnt someone you should make fun of.
He laughed blowing hot foul air in my face. Belikov, never thought Id get to see this
side of you.
I smiled down at him. He may think he has won, but Im stronger, and faster. And the
most respected guardian at this school, no one would ever believe him if he chose to
tell. I wasnt afraid of him; he was just another Jesse Zeklos waiting for a chance to
strike at a persons weak spot.
I knew I was going to get in trouble for this, but I didnt care. Rose would understand.
I shoved him against the stone wall, making him wince and groan in pain. If I ever hear
you call Rose anything shes not I will personally drive a stake through your heart. And I
will enjoy it.
I released him then, causing him to slump to the floor. He groaned as he managed to sit
up, the novices were really taking it hard against him, and now I really damaged
whatever strength he had left. Good, he needs to be knocked down a few pegs,
especially if Rose ever gets the chance to fight him again. I know shell enjoy kicking his
ass as much as I did.
I resisted the urge to kick him until he bled; instead I turned on my heel and made my
way back to the door. My hand rested on the knob as I turned around and met Stans
eyes, which were now full of hatred and revenge. My voice was barely a shout, report
this to anyone and I wont think twice about my threat.
I opened the novice door that instantly bathed me in a warm yellow glow letting it shut
softly behind me, putting a barrier between Stan and me.
Chapter 9:
My feet crunched in the freshly lain snow as I made my way out of the dorms. After my
confrontation with Stan last night I had been too wild up to go to sleep. Adrenaline had
coursed through my veins till five in the morning; luckily I had Sunday off and wouldnt
attend church till eight. I was happy until I found out Rose had community service, and
all that happiness burst into something else. Something mixed with passion, longing,
love and giddiness.
I shook the feelings away as I made my way to the chapel. I wasnt neglecting my love
for Rose like I had at the ski lodge, but I wasnt enforcing it either. I needed to stay calm
and collected, I needed to get her to pass the final test, and I needed her to graduate so
we could watch over Lissa. But most importantly I needed her to focus on knowing what
to do in intense situations, Spokane was proof enough to me that I wont be there all the
time to watch and protect her. And even though she had done a good job at getting her
and her friends out, not all of them made it. And that single mistake, will affect her
forever, as a guardian and as a person.
Shivering at the thought of a screaming Rose crouched over Mason made me aware of
my surroundings. I was nearing the chapel, snow falling lightly, blurring its dark
furnishing. It was seven thirty, so no one was around yet except for the one person I
needed to talk to before the service.
I open the huge wooden doors that prevent the cold and snow from drafting in and step
inside. My feet echo against the walls as I make my way towards the stage. The
wooden doors close with a bang making my footsteps sound like padded drops from a
sink compared to a waterfall.
The priest looks up from his work then. He had been huddled over one of the old dusty
bibles that he stored in the back. His pen tapping the side of the podium as he rests his
head in his hand trying to put together the service. My heart beats faster at the sight of
him, knowing that I may be interrupting whatever work he was doing and preventing him
from finishing it. I wonder if God would strike me down for that. But didnt have the time
to consider it before the old man smiled at me.
Dimitri, what can I do for you? His smile was genuine and wrinkled at the corners of
his eyes, making him look much older than he really was.
I nodded and smiled back. My student Rosemarie Hathaway has community service
today and I was wondering if she could help you with anything. He nodded his balding
head, eyes lost in thought. I also will be assisting her.
The priests graying eyebrows went up at that, crinkling his forehead, which made him
look twenty years older. Is that so? He cleared his throat. Well, Dimitri, I think I can fit
in a time for the both of you. See me after the service today and I will find something for
you two to do.
I nodded and thanked him. As I turned around and started to walk away his deep voice
rang through the wooden chapel. I dont think thats a good idea. Ive been watching
the way you look at her.
I freeze in mid-footstep. And spin as fast as I would if I were to face a Strigoi. I try to
keep my voice even. I-IWhat do you mean Sir?
He smiled, there wasnt anything hidden behind that smile, being a servant of God. His
eyes lit up at my attempts to act surprise. During the services, I see the way you two
steal glances at each other Dimitri. Theres nothing to hide. At first it looked as though
you were checking on her protectively, as if she were in danger all the time. But then I
looked again and saw something different in your eyes.
I lowered my head, I couldnt lie to the priest, it would be a sin to, and would be wrong. I
nod as if I understand, but really Im just shocked he had figured it out. Him out of all
people. He took my silence as an invitation and kept talking.
I think Ive figured it out now. His voice was light and thoughtful; my heart ached for
him to stop talking. Its wonder. Wonder if youre ever going to be with that person. And
longing. Longing to be with her forever. I see the way you watch Rose when she leaves,
like shes walking out the door forever, never coming back. But theres something else
there too.
I look up at him then, his finger tapping his chin as he stares off into the unknown. My
heart beats faster, never before had someone (besides Tasha) figured out my biggest
secret, figured out my feelings for Rose wasnt professional.
His eyes flickered back to me as he smiles again. Protection. Youre assigned to the
Dragomir princess correct? I nod, and when I dont respond he continues, his voice
lower this time. And as I crane my neck to see what hes looking at I realize with sudden
shock that there are people entering the building. And I trust you know how important it
is to protect her. And Rose is Vasilissas best friend, yet I can see you protecting
Hathaway without a second thought. Leaving Vasilissa out in the open. You do
understand why this is dangerous? Not just for your carrier, but for both of the girls
lives?
His brown eyes were wide now as he imagined what might happen if I let my feelings
get the best of me. We both seemed to share the same thought. I was Lissas guardian,
and if I let Rose get in the way of protecting her I will endanger the last Dragomirs life.
But I never thought about Lissa being the dangerous one. Rose, well shes Rose and
danger was her characteristic it seemed like these days. But Lissa, she was innocent,
and just a girl, a vulnerable girl, who needed protection. And if Im not there to provide
that her life will be in danger.
My heart quickened even more, pounding in my ears. And by the way he cocked his
head to the side I knew he heard it. With his powerful Moroi ears, he probably could
hear the blood rushing through my veins fast and irregular.
He looked up, his smile fading as his eyes swept across the room. My service is about
to start. Ill consult with you and Hathaway after.
And without another word or glance his eyes focused back on the book he had been
fixated over before I had come in.
I took my regular seat in the back, trying hard not to glance Roses way as she entered.
What the priest had said to me was overwhelming. Never before had someone come
remotely close to my deep feelings for her. It was true I wanted to protect her. And I
knew if the time came I would try to protect Lissa, but the moment Rose screamed in
pain I would shift my attention to her and kill whatever caused her bloodcurdling
scream.
And it was then I knew what to do. Not only did I need Rose to get better in training, I
needed her to learn to protect herself. To kill a Strigoi within seconds, because if she
doesnt she endangers both Lissa and me. Lissas life will be forgotten, and I will take
action and protect Rose with my life.
The thought of Roses screams in Spokane comes back to me. Never again will I let her
scream like that, feel like that. Her screams echo in my head and I wonder if the priest
can hear that too.
Chapter 10:
After the service and everyone had cleared out Rose lingered near the stage. She
looked uncomfortable and stuck out. The way she looked around the room told me she
didnt want to be here and hoped no one saw her and took it as a sudden interest in
religion. I shook my head at the thought. It could be something else.
My heart nearly leapt out of my chest when she glanced my way. Shock masked her
features, and I was brought back to the first night I had saw her. She wore the same
expression only fear was hidden somewhere beneath it. Only this time the fear was
replaced by something I had come to consider and know. Love.
What are you doing here? She asked. Her voice echoed off the old wooden walls.
Thought you might need some help. I hear the priest wants to do a lot of
housecleaning. I had heard this by eavesdropping on Alberta and Kirova from earlier.
Yeah, but youre not the one being punished here. And this is your day off too. We---
well, everyone else---spent the whole week battling it out, but you guys were the ones
picking the fights the whole time. Her eyes narrowed, taking in the features of my face.
I knew she was examining the bruises I had received this week. I didnt have as many
as the other guardians, partly because I was faster and stronger than most and didnt go
easy on the students.
Stan had the most out of all of us. And my confrontation with him last night had to leave
a lot more damage than any novice could do. The thought of him calling Rose stupid
made my pulse quicken in anger. The last time he had talked badly about Rose was the
first day she had arrived back to the school. He had screamed and yelled at her over
something as small as not knowing a lesson.
Back then I thought of his yelling as a lesson to her. And had agreed with it. But now,
now I see it as cruelty and his enjoyment of picking on a student. Knowing they cant do
anything to him. Except for now, on the field experience, they could hit him and not get
looked down for it. I silently encouraged Rose to beat the hell out of him.
I looked at her, keeping my face as stone like as possible. The priest was lingering
behind her and if he saw just the slightest attraction I had for Rose I dont know what Id
do. What else would I do today?
I could think of a hundred other things, she noted dryly. It was as if she didnt want me
there. My heart ached at her response. Theres probably a John Wayne movie on
somewhere that you havent seen.
I tried to keep a straight face at her attempts of showing me up. I shook my head. No,
there isnt. Ive seen them all. Look---the priest is waiting for us.
She turned around to see Father Andrew standing at the front, watching us. To Rose his
look might seem creepy, but to me, it was like a stab in the back. He was watching us,
seeing if his earlier theory was correct. My heart raced as I stared at him. His mouth
twitched upward, I knew he heard it.
Hed taken off the rich robes hed worn during the service and now stood in simple
slacks and a button down shirt.
As Rose and I approached to get our assignments, I couldnt help but wonder if it were
a sin to love someone that didnt belong to me. Surely somewhere in the bible God
looked down upon falling in love with a girl underage. I just hadnt found it yet.
Thank you both for volunteering to help me. Father Andrew smiled at us. We arent
doing anything particularly complex today. Its a bit boring really. Well have to do the
regular cleaning, of course, and then Id like to sort the boxes of old supplies I have
sitting up in the attic.
As I stared at the priest I noticed he was keeping a straight face, and mainly was
looking at Rose. As if he was trying to figure out her feelings for me too. But then again,
he could be trying to hide the fact that he knows about us.
Were happy to do whatever you need. I said solemnly.
We set to it.
Rose was put on mop duty, and I took over dusting and polishing the wooden pews. I
kept to myself, thinking of things that didnt wonder too closely to Rose. I thought of my
old life, my old home. The smell of breakfast every time I woke up in that small home.
The feeling of my mom and grandmother as they hugged me before I went off to school.
My sisters, how much I loved them, and what I would do to protect them. Beating up my
dad wasnt just for my mom.

I took my time cleaning the pews, not wanting to mess up. But I was also stalling for
time, I didnt want to leave Roses side. I never did. Every time I was with her she found
a way to make my heart race faster, to make my breathing shallow to where I was
suffocating for oxygen. The things she does to me Ill never understand.
When the priest stepped out of the sanctuary to go to his office, I continued working
quietly. Trying hard not to let my emotions spill over. We werent out in public, but we
werent alone either. And my conversation with the priest before the service still
wrapped around my brain. Refusing to leave.
When we finished the cleaning, Father Andrew had us haul box after box of stuff down
from the attic and into the storeroom at the back of the chapel.
With all the stuff downstairs, the three of us settled on the floor and began sorting it all
out. Father Andrew gave us instructions on what to save and what to throw out. My
aching limbs stretched awkwardly on the wooden floor. And I winced every time I tried
to shift. The priest made small talk as we worked, asking about Roses classes and
other things.
And as we worked, I stole a glance at Rose when the priest turned around to grab
something. She was thoughtful as she stared down at the pile surrounding her. The
wrinkles in her forehead increased as her thought deepened. I looked at her curious
what she was up to.
Hey, she said to Father Andrew. Do you believe in ghosts? I mean, is there any
mention of them in--- She gestured around us. ---in this stuff?
The question surprised him, but he didnt appear to take offense at her calling his
vocation and lifes work this stuff. Or at the fact that she was ignorant about it all,
despite of attending the services. A bemused expression crossed his face, and he
paused in his work.
I stopped too, curious. Wellit depends on how you define ghost I suppose.
Rose tapped a theology book with her finger. The whole point of this is that when you
die, you go to heaven or hell. That makes ghosts just stories, right? Theyre not in the
Bible or anything.
Again, he said, it depends on your definition. Our faith has always held that after
death, the spirit separates from the body and may indeed linger in this world.
What? A dusty bowl she had been holding dropped out of her hand. Fortunately it was
wood and didnt break. She quickly retrieved it. Her face paled, full of fear and shock.
My heart raced even more, this time it was for her safety. Guardian instincts kicked in
and it took all my will not to shake her and demand who hurt her. I wasn't surprised
when my first guess was Jessy. For how long? Forever? Her eyes were wide now.
No, no, of course not. That lies in the face of the resurrection and salvation, which form
the cornerstone of our beliefs. But its believed the soul can stay on the earth for three
to forty days after death. It eventually receives a temporary judgment that sends it on
from this world to heaven or hell---although no one will truly experience either until the
actual Judgment Day, when the soul and body are reunited to live out eternity as one.
Her face went slack, but not enough to satisfy my burning instincts. Yeah, but is it true
or not? Are spirits really walking the earth for forty days after death?
Ah, Rose. Those who have to ask if faith is true are opening up a discussion they may
not be ready for.
Rose sighed and turned back to the box in front of her.
But, he said kindly, if it helps you, some of these ideas parallel folk beliefs from
Eastern Europe about ghosts that existed before the spread of Christianity. Those
traditions have long upheld the idea of spirits staying around for a short time after death-
--particularly if the person in question died young or violently.
She froze. The book that was in her hand went slack and fell back into the box. Her
face, I thought was white before, but now it was if it were translucent. I was sure if I
were to walk up to her I could see all the veins and muscles sitting behind that pretty
skin of hers.
Why? She asked in a small voice. Why would they stay? Is itis it for revenge?
My arms ached to hold her and cradle her against my chest. To whisper that everything
was going to be alright, whatever it was. But even with the priest here, who knew a lot
about us, I didnt dare go anywhere near her.
Im sure there are some who believe that, just as some believe its because the soul has
trouble finding peace after something so unsettling.
What do you believe? she asked her voice hopeful.
He smiled. I believe the soul separates from the body, just as our fathers teach us, but I
doubt the souls time on earth is anything the living can perceive. Its not like in the
movies, with ghosts haunting buildings or coming to visit those they knew. I envision
these spirits as more of an energy existing around us, something beyond our perception
as they wait to move on and find peace. Ultimately, what matters is what happens
beyond this earth when we attain the eternal life our savior bought for us with his great
sacrifice. Thats whats important.
Rose stayed quiet and thoughtful, some of the blood returned to her cheeks. But not
enough to calm me down. She seemed to be battling something inside her. I knew this
because of the way she had hunched over herself, face lost in thought.
Father Andrew sensed the change in Rose; he tried to coax her out. I just got some
new books in from a friend in another parish. Interesting stories about St. Vladimir. He
titled his head. Are you still interested in him? And Anna?
When she didnt respond, the priest and I looked at each other, wondering what was
into her. Rose never really cared for religious things, until now. And her sudden interest
made me curious.
Yeah, she said finally, not making eye contact. Im interestedbut I dont think I can
get to it anytime soon. Im kind of busy with all thisyou know, field experience stuff.
She fell silent again. He took the hint and let her work on without further interruption. So
I followed his lead, not saying anything. When we finally finished sorting, Father Andrew
told us we had one more task before our work was done. He pointed to some boxes that
wed organized and repacked.
I need you to carry these over to the elementary campus, he said. Leave them off at
the Moroi dorm there. Ms. Davis has been teaching Sunday school for some of the
kindergarteners and might be able to use those.
It would take at least two trips between Rose and me, and the elementary campus was
a fair distance away.
Rose and I got to it.

Why are you interested in ghosts? I asked her on our first trip. This had been
bothering me the moment she had mentioned it. I had never took Rose as the
supernatural type. Even though Vampires were considered supernatural, we didnt think
of it that way.
Just making conversation. She said.
I cant see your face right now, but I have a feeling youre lying again. I said around
the dusty boxes.
Jeez, everyone thinks the worst of me lately. Stan accused me of glory-seeking.
Just the thought of her comparing me to Stan made my body tense. But I couldnt let
that reach my voice, because if I did Rose would question me and I could get in big
trouble.
I heard about that, I said as we rounded a corner. The buildings of the elementary
campus loomed up in front of us. That might have been a little unfair of him. I was
exaggerating.
A little, huh? Her voice turned dark, almost making me jump. Well, thanks, but Im
starting to lose faith in this field experience. Sometimes in the whole Academy.
You dont mean that.
I dont know. The school just seems so caught up in rules and policies that dont have
anything to do with real life. I saw what was out there, comrade. I went right to the
monsters lair. In some ways I dont know if this really prepares us.
Roses screams returned to me making me wince. The icy wind picked up then, and as
it hit me in cold waves I swear I could smell blood in there somewhere. I shivered at the
thought of Spokane. Sometimes I agree.
She nearly stumbled as we stepped inside one of the two Moroi dorms on the
elementary campus. The lobby looked a lot like the ones on the secondary campus.
Really? she asked.
Really, I said, a small smile spread on my lips. I mean, I dont agree that novices
should be put out in the word when theyre ten or anything, but sometimes Ive thought
the field experience should actually be in the field. I probably learned more in my first
year as a guardian then I did in all my years of training. Well maybe not all. But its a
different situation, absolutely.
Im sure there are some who believe that, just as some believe its because the soul
has trouble finding peace after something so unsettling.
What do you believe? she asked her voice hopeful.
He smiled. I believe the soul separates from the body, just as our fathers teach us, but I
doubt the souls time on earth is anything the living can perceive. Its not like in the
movies, with ghosts haunting buildings or coming to visit those they knew. I envision
these spirits as more of an energy existing around us, something beyond our perception
as they wait to move on and find peace. Ultimately, what matters is what happens
beyond this earth when we attain the eternal life our savior bought for us with his great
sacrifice. Thats whats important.
Rose stayed quiet and thoughtful, some of the blood returned to her cheeks. But not
enough to calm me down. She seemed to be battling something inside her. I knew this
because of the way she had hunched over herself, face lost in thought.
Father Andrew sensed the change in Rose; he tried to coax her out. I just got some
new books in from a friend in another parish. Interesting stories about St. Vladimir. He
titled his head. Are you still interested in him? And Anna?
When she didnt respond, the priest and I looked at each other, wondering what was
into her. Rose never really cared for religious things, until now. And her sudden interest
made me curious.
Yeah, she said finally, not making eye contact. Im interestedbut I dont think I can
get to it anytime soon. Im kind of busy with all thisyou know, field experience stuff.
She fell silent again. He took the hint and let her work on without further interruption. So
I followed his lead, not saying anything. When we finally finished sorting, Father Andrew
told us we had one more task before our work was done. He pointed to some boxes that
wed organized and repacked.
I need you to carry these over to the elementary campus, he said. Leave them off at
the Moroi dorm there. Ms. Davis has been teaching Sunday school for some of the
kindergarteners and might be able to use those.
It would take at least two trips between Rose and me, and the elementary campus was
a fair distance away.
Rose and I got to it.

Why are you interested in ghosts? I asked her on our first trip. This had been
bothering me the moment she had mentioned it. I had never took Rose as the
supernatural type. Even though Vampires were considered supernatural, we didnt think
of it that way.
Just making conversation. She said.
I cant see your face right now, but I have a feeling youre lying again. I said around
the dusty boxes.
Jeez, everyone thinks the worst of me lately. Stan accused me of glory-seeking.
Just the thought of her comparing me to Stan made my body tense. But I couldnt let
that reach my voice, because if I did Rose would question me and I could get in big
trouble.
I heard about that, I said as we rounded a corner. The buildings of the elementary
campus loomed up in front of us. That might have been a little unfair of him. I was
exaggerating.
A little, huh? Her voice turned dark, almost making me jump. Well, thanks, but Im
starting to lose faith in this field experience. Sometimes in the whole Academy.
You dont mean that.
I dont know. The school just seems so caught up in rules and policies that dont have
anything to do with real life. I saw what was out there, comrade. I went right to the
monsters lair. In some ways I dont know if this really prepares us.
Roses screams returned to me making me wince. The icy wind picked up then, and as
it hit me in cold waves I swear I could smell blood in there somewhere. I shivered at the
thought of Spokane. Sometimes I agree.
She nearly stumbled as we stepped inside one of the two Moroi dorms on the
elementary campus. The lobby looked a lot like the ones on the secondary campus.
Really? she asked.
Really, I said, a small smile spread on my lips. I mean, I dont agree that novices
should be put out in the word when theyre ten or anything, but sometimes Ive thought
the field experience should actually be in the field. I probably learned more in my first
year as a guardian then I did in all my years of training. Well maybe not all. But its a
different situation, absolutely.
I studied her, brushing hair out of my eyes in the process. Why does there have to be
some ulterior motive?
She took a moment to consider this. Every time her anger started to loosen my tense
body would relax a little. Because everyone has motives.
Yes. But not always the motives you think. I pushed open the door. Ill see you later.
Chapter 11:
After leaving Rose to bring the last box to Mrs. Davis, I made my way to the guardians
main building to report Roses community service. Even though Kirova and Alberta
never asked me to, I felt like it was the right thing to do. Considering I was assigned to
keep Rose in line and report her disciplinary projects I figured this event was no
different.
And as my feet sloshed in the snow I couldnt help but feel hurt about Roses earlier
comments. Did she really not believe that I could get her into the trial? Did she really
think I had that much power to do so? Her comments suggested that I did, and she
looked at me as if I were a god who was capable of doing anything.
I shook my head at the thought; no I may not be able to do everything. But I was
capable of doing a lot of things, and getting Rose and Lissa to that trial was just an
obstacle I had to overcome.
As the guardian building peeped out of the darkness of the trees I quickened my pace.
My feet were silent against the snow, mainly from my years of practicing fox walking,
and also from being light in my stance. Twenty years of practicing this one technique
will do that to you.
The soft golden glow coming from the windows casted long eerie blue shadows on the
snow. Shapes were walking past the windows frame. I could tell from the short hair and
the tense body that one of them was Albertas. The wind picked up making me quicken
my pace even more.
I was soon bathed in the warm glow. Shutting the door behind me I could actually feel
my face defrosting. How long have I been walking? Ill never know.
Albertas head shot up from the corner she was standing at the instant the door locked
in place. She nodded and gave me a small smile. Belikov. Youre here to report Roses
community service I presume?
I nodded back and took a seat at the empty table. Emil was standing off to the side
going over something with another guardian. Yes, she, Father Andrew and I worked all
day on cleaning out the chapels attic and sorting through the boxes that he kept up
there. Then after we, Rose and I, brought them down to the lower schools and handed
them over to Mrs. Davis.
Albertas watchful eyes were on me the whole time. Making me nervous. She let a few
moments pass before she nodded. How is she doing?
Her question shocked me. I knew Alberta cared about Roses field experience but that
didnt stop my racing heart from slowing down. After my confrontation with Father
Andrew this morning I figured everyone wouldve guessed my love for Rose by now.
I kept my face as stone like as possible, not wanting to give anything away from last
night. Especially my fight with Stan. Shes doing better; Guardian Alto got her again last
night. But this time it was different, he attacked and both she and Eddie jumped in
leaving both their charges unprotected.
I felt like a snitch but I couldnt lie to Alberta. She was the one person that had control
over all guardians at this school and if she found out I was lying Id lose my job. And that
meant losing my job of protecting Lissa and keeping a watchful eye over Rose.
Alberta had started to pace the room again. Her head hung low as she placed her
clasped hands behind her back. Her face was thoughtful as she took in all my
information. And I noticed for the first time she looked as young as she was. Not all
tensed up and ready for a fight, her face was smooth, free of stress wrinkles and with
her mouth slightly opened she looked her age. Alberta wasnt as old as most guardians
now a days, but she was pretty old. And all the stress of being a Guardian had taken
her beauty away.
This thought brought me back to my first days of training Rose. It had been cold and we
had been practicing outside for quite some time. When we came back inside I noticed
her hands were cracked and blistered, and in some parts they had actually opened and
bled.
While I was treating them she told me that this was the first sign of her slowly losing her
beauty. Just like Alberta and her mother had lost theirs. The life of dedication and
protecting the Moroi really affected us in a lot of ways.
Back then I had told her that it wouldnt happen to her that this life would never affect
her beauty in anyway. And even now I thought the same thing. Rose was different from
Alberta and her mother. Both Alberta and Janine have fully dedicated their lives to
protecting and serving their Moroi charges. The only difference is that Rose will be
safely locked away in Court with Lissa. Which will provide less brutality to her gorgeous
face. She didnt need to worry about losing her golden skin to a hard life. I was sure of
it.
Alberta stopped pacing and resorted to sitting next to me. She leaned forward, resting
her elbows on her knees as she stared into my eyes. I could see the beautiful woman
she once was before this life took that all away. She was still beautiful, not in the way
Rose was, but in her own way. She had a tough beauty about her.
I heard about her fight with Alto last night, and I know you care about her as much as I
do. And want to help her but I dont know what we can do. Weve both seen what shes
capable of; weve both seen the damage in Spokane. She paused her face darkening. I
knew what she was thinking of. The blood that covered the floor as Rose screamed for
us to leave her alone. Hovering over Mason as if she could bring him back to life. The
tears and blood mixed in on her cheeks, the hurt and anger in her eyes as she stared
up at us not making our features out.
Alberta shook her head. I know Rose is much more skilled than this. She shouldnt
even need to take the field experience. I dont even think what we put the novices
through every year really helps them in real life. She looked away. I was shocked at
how close she came to mirroring my thoughts from talking to Rose earlier. But I have to
put faith in this program. Its the only way we can teach them the ways of the real world.
I had expected Rose to be the top student and take down every threat we threw at her.
But maybe I was wrong. Maybe Spokane had done some permanent damage to her.
Maybe her eyes looked sadder and sadder the more she talked. I placed a hand on
her shoulder, trying to comfort her. There were real tears in her eyes. Maybe she cant
be helped. Maybe shes incapable of killing Strigoi without flashing back to her first
killing.
Her voice trailed off as she looked away from me. I took in what she was saying. It was
true, maybe theres no way to help Rose. Maybe she really was gone in the sense of
being able to kill. But thinking back to today, the fierceness in her eyes and the
determination to pass this exam was a sign of how wrong Albertas thoughts were.
No, Rose was capable of killing. Ive seen the way she watches Lissa as if she were in
terrible danger. As if in any moment Lissa will be attacked, even in a highly guarded
school. No, Rose hasnt left us, and she never will.
I squeezed Albertas shoulder out of comfort. Ive fought her in the gym after Spokane.
Ive seen the way she watches Lissa as if they were already out in the real world. Rose
hasnt left us after Spokane. If anything shes grown stronger and more alert.
Alberta looked back at me, her eyes wide and hopeful; this only made her look much
younger. You really think so? There was a hopeful tone to her voice.
I nodded. Im positive. I know Rose; shell never leave this life of protecting and serving
the Moroi. I thought back to the day in the gym after Spokane when she demanded to
learn more about killing Strigoi. No, shell be just fine.
Alberta smiled at me. Im sorryabout all that, its just guardian numbers are lowering
daily and we cant afford to lose a student like Rose.
I nodded in agreement. When she didnt say anymore I stood up to leave. I took two
steps before she reached out and grabbed my wrist. Forcing me to turn around and look
down into her eyes. Promise me youll find out whats wrong with Rose, Belikov. Her
eyes were no longer watery, if anything they looked determined. We cant lose her.
Mentally I mean.
I nodded. I promise.
Alberta sighed and leaned back releasing her hold on me. She ran a hand through her
short brown hair. One more thing. Do you think we need to get Hathaway into a
therapist?
I took a moment to think about that. Therapy would help her, but I dont think thats an
issue as of right now. And if we did decide to place her into a help program it will only
push back her field experience more. I shook my head. No, shell be fine. If the
problem worsens within this week Ill set up an appointment with one of our therapists.
Alberta seemed to like this idea. She nodded and clasped her hands in her lap. Very
well then, I need---
Her next words were cut off by a loud bang of the front door. I spun around as fast as I
would if there were a Strigoi standing behind me. My instincts made me reach for my
stake. But my fingers stopped to rest on the cold metal surface as I noticed who I was
about to attack.
Ivashkov! You are out of line!
Green eyes stared back at me, messy brown hair drenched from the newly falling snow.
Adrian smirked at me as he walked toward us. Kirova was behind him, looking upset
and pissed off as usual.
I told him he couldnt come in here without an appointment. That Moroi were not
permitted to enter without further acceptance, but he just wont listen.
Adrian plopped himself down on one of the few couches we had in the guardian
building. He stretched out his long legs looking bored. I told you Kirova I go by my own
rules. Besides Im not a student. I have rights! His words had a slight slur to them. And
it took me a moment to realize he was drunk. Shaking my head I looked over at a now
fuming, red faced Kirova.
Headmistress. And because you arent a student doesnt mean you get to barge into
whatever building you want. Youre not even part of our staff, you have no right what so
ever. Her words were clipped and had venom dripping off of them. I couldnt remember
a time when Kirova wasnt this mad. Excluding the past visits from Rose.
Adrian waved that off as if it didnt even matter. And to an Ivashkov it might as well not.
Yeah, I get it. I came here for a good reason, and since you wouldnt approve I went to
the next best source.
Adrians eyes searched both Albertas and mine. Emil and the other guardian were still
standing in the corner, but were no longer focused on the paper Emil still clutched in his
hand. Their eyes were wide and surprised. I had no doubt Alberta and I looked the
same.
Kirova huffed at that as she positioned herself next to Adrian. Requesting Rosemarie
Hathaway and Vasilisa Dragomir to Victor Dashkovs trail isnt a good reason to come
barging into every staff building on this campus.
He smiled up at Kirova as she stared him down. How he managed not to cower under
her piercing glare was beyond me. Oh come on, let them come. Im sure my Aunt will
be thrilled to have the last Dragomir in her courtroom. Considering theyve been absent
for over two years. They need more power in their government.
We all stared at him in shock. Never before had a royal talked about the Dragomirs
death like that. Everyone looked at it in sorrow and pity for Lissa. But then again Adrian
was drunk and probably didnt know half of what he was saying.
Kirova looked like she was about to hit him. Instead she clinched her fists to her side,
making her knuckles turn white. The Dragomirs death was a tragedy, and you should
respect their absence and not acknowledge it in that way. I could tell she was trying
hard to keep her self control.
Adrian yawned looking more bored than he did a moment ago. He seemed to forget
Kirova as he turned his attention to both Alberta and I. Please consider letting Rose
and Lissa go to the trial. At first I wanted to shake my head but the longer I looked into
those deep green eyes the more I began to lose my sense of reality.
There was nothing in the world but those emerald eyes. They burned into my soul as I
continued to stare at him. His face was a magnificent blur; the only thing I could seem to
focus on was his eyes.
I shook my head; that was weird, never before had I felt like that. I looked away as he
continued to talk. My Aunt will praise you for letting them come along. His voice was
like honey but there was something else hidden in there too.
I focused my attention back on him. But this time I didnt look anywhere near his eyes.
They were now focused on Alberta. I stole a glance in her direction and was shocked at
what I saw.
Her face was slack, like it had been earlier, making her look ten years younger.
Everything about her seemed normal except for her eyes. They had that glazed over
look I knew all too well. Compulsion.
Adrian was using it on Alberta, and Kirova didnt notice it. I wanted to say something,
but one simple thought stopped me.
This could be it; this could be our chance of getting Rose into the trial. I knew it was
wrong to encourage compulsion, I could get in a lot of trouble for it, but if it included
Rose and making her happy I was all for it. I sat back in my chair and stared at the
pattern on the floor until it was over.
Alberta coughed and sighed. I looked up at her, her eyes were still glazed over but I
could see her quickly coming to her senses. Ill consider it. She said not sounding too
convinced.
I looked over at Adrian to see what his reaction might be. And what I saw surprised me.
He glared at both of us. You will do it, and forget that I used compulsion on you.
I woke up; it was like I was in a dream, a dream where I was being controlled. Only I
was in the guardians building staring at Adrian and Kirova. Kirovas features were as
pissed off as usual, she didnt seem affected by the weird dream feeling.
I shook off the rest of the effects as I stared at my hands. Albertas voice rang through
the silence. Considering your proposition Mr. Ivashkov, I will allow both Hathaway and
Dragomir to attend Victors trial. Her voice seemed like something was controlling it, but
I didnt know what.
Kirova moved towards the door. Great, not only will we have to worry about you being
trouble Adrian, but now well have to worry about Rosemarie as well. She huffed and
walked out into the cold night air.
Adrian stood up and brushed off his pants. Well my work is finished. See you
tomorrow.
And with that he left the building as loud as he had entered. I shook off whatever I had
just gone through and stood up. I had to pack for tomorrow. And now I had to pack for
Rose.
Excitement burst through my body at the thought of having her come with us. How
Adrian did it Ill never know.
Chapter 12:
As I walked back to my dorm in the cool night air I couldnt help but feel a pang of
jealousy towards Adrian. How he had managed to get Rose and Lissa into Victors trial
when I couldnt. Ive never felt like such a failure and disappointed towards myself in my
whole life.
Maybe if I had just tried harder I could have gotten Rose and Lissa to Court, not Adrian.
And as my feet crunched in the newly lain snow I couldnt help but wonder how he had
done it. How could someone, who doesnt have a lot of respect and influence,
overpower someone who has earned the respect from his peers and has more influence
in both Moroi and dhampir worlds?
As I pondered on this subject the novice and guardian dorm came into view. Its
medieval shape was a black smudge on the horizon surrounded by dark looming trees.
The buildings point seemed to pierce the sky with its crown as I came closer.
It was near curfew, and I was surprised to see no one wondering around campus before
they had to be inside. Although it was cold out and that had to be the main reason for
drawing them indoors.
Soon enough I was inside the dorm. My cheeks burned from the cold air as the rooms
heat blasted me in the face. My fingers and toes were starting to feel numb and prickly.
The lady at the desk didnt seem to notice me as I silently slipped past her towards the
back of the lobby where the guardians kept most of their traveling gear.
I opened the small narrow door at the end of the room with my endless amount of keys,
and was greeted with blackness. I took in a deep breath and was rewarded with an old
musty smell that came from the small room. It was under the stairwell and was ignored
most of the time since guardians seemed to have a lack in usage for it. The fumes
coming from the moist walls made my nose scrunch up in disgust; the smell reminded
me of being with Rose earlier in the Chapel with all the old musty books. I smiled at the
thought of being with her at this moment and her commenting on the smell.
My dhampir eyes quickly adjusted to the dark as I quietly shut the door and made my
way down the set of stairs that Ive been down more than the other guardians here.
I ducked through the second door way, my feet echoing against the walls as I did so,
and hit the light switch on the left. My eyes protested to the harsh lighting as I stepped
further into the small confined room. On the far right corner was another door which I
knew held the clothes for attending the Court. And opposite of that wall were shelves of
weapons, which were kept secret from the novices so they wont come wondering down
here wanting to test the dangerous instruments.
I quietly shut the second door behind me and made my way towards the closet. My
hand rested on the cool brass knob as I struggled to turn its rusty springs, due from the
dank and wet air in the small confined room. Its springs groaned protests as I carefully
twisted the rusting knob. And as I pulled the door out its hinges groaned even louder
than the springs did, making me wince, although I dont know why. I had no reason to
be secretive.
I was greeted with clear hanging bags of black and white suits. The bags were meant to
protect the clothes so they wouldnt get moldy. But if they were left unattended for a
certain amount of time they would eventually need to be thrown out and Alberta would
have to order new ones.
The Queen requests all guardians to be in black and white attire, which included black
pants and white shirts. We didnt have any say in it, because after all it was the Queens
wish.
I thumbed through the wet plastic bags, as I searched for Roses size. I didnt need an
outfit for myself because I already had one. Guardians were required to have a pair of
black and white attire just in case something comes up and they cant go shopping for a
set.
My mind flashed back to the time when Victor had taken the girls to the mall in search
for their dresses for the dance. I had followed them at a safe yet close enough distance
and had watched as Rose and Lissa went through clothing stores looking at not only
dresses but pants and shirts as well.
I had taken notice in what Rose looked at and had heard her sizes as well. I knew
knowing this information might come in handy one day, especially if she really was
being considered to guard Lissa at the Court after graduation.
My fingers rested on one of the white shirts on the girls side of the closet. I picked it off
the rack and hung it loosely over my arm. Then I continued to leaf through the damp
bags until I found the right size pants as well.
Taking in another deep breath of the musty room I shut the closet door and made my
way out of the room as quietly as possible.

Once I was on my leveled floor I walked away from my dorm room and towards the
washing room. I didnt think Rose would appreciate musty and dank smells as her new
perfume.
After I put them in the washer I leaned back against one of the many chairs in the room
and stretched out my long legs. My eyes felt heavy from the long day of work and my
limbs tired. But before I could even think of resting, my mind landed on a subject I was
not too fond of.
Father Andrew had been right about Rose and me. And that had scared me, he out of
all people had figured out my worst and deepest secret. I knew I could trust a man of
the Lord to keep that secret but what if something came up and he was forced to reveal
it?
And then another thing popped in my head what if Victor does tell the royal court
about the truth between Rose and me? My reputation would shatter, and I would most
likely be out casted and possibly thrown in jail. Roses interest might be overlooked as a
school girls crush. And may be forgotten, but knowing her she might just stand up for
our love and get herself thrown in jail along with me.
But not in the same cell because thats still against the rules. And that simple thought
scared me more than anything ever could. My future might be over after this trial.
The thought haunted me even after I claimed Roses clothes and went to bed that night.

The next day I hurried and got dressed, packing my Court attire as well as a few dark
clothing. My hair was still damp from my quick shower as I made my way to the planes
departure station. I wouldnt be surprised if the long loose strands turned into icicles by
the time I got there in this weather.
As usual I got there before everyone else. Well except for the pilot George and his
attendants. They each smiled and nodded at me as I walked over to them with a
suitcase in one hand and my duster in the other. I didnt bother putting it on because I
was in a rush to get here early.
Belikov, early as usual. George said. I smiled at him and handed my back over to his
attendants outstretched arm.
She took it from me and walked towards the back of the plane and loaded it in. As I
turned around to face the campus I noticed several other guardians walking towards
me. They were the ones from Victors attack, so I wasnt surprised when I noticed they
too had bags.
As they neared they handed them over to the other two attendants and boarded.

I stood out in the cold, wanting to talk to Rose before we got on. Soon enough, after the
jets engine turned on and everyone was boarded, Rose showed up with Eddie, and in
tow: Christian and Lissa.
A few guardians still lingered towards the planes steps. I didnt feel like being so close
so I stood off to the side. Waiting for Rose to notice me, like I knew she would.
When she did spot me she literally ran up to me, sorrow filled those dark eyes, making
my heart ache to hold her. The events from yesterday rushed back to me making my
heart hurt even more when I realized why she was so upset.
Im sorry. She gulped out. Im so sorry.
I maintained my guardian mask as I turned to fully face her. Sorry for what?
For all the horrible things I said yesterday. You did it---you really did it. You got them to
let us go.
The pride that flashed in her eyes and on her face made my heart nearly break. I wish I
could be able to say that I had gotten them here. But in reality I didnt, Adrian did and I
despised him every moment I was reminded of it.
I could feel my hands clutching at the memory of Adrian waltzing into the Guardians
building and getting a yes out of Alberta one time while Ive been trying for weeks.
But through all this pain I managed to keep my face as hard as stone, I didnt want to
hurt her any more than my words would. It wasnt me, Rose. I had nothing to do with it.
Her face fell at that and the sight of this made my heart sing in sadness. Alberta
signaled for us to board and leave. I took that as my cue and was happy I didnt have to
witness Roses crumbling face as I walked towards the jet.
Sighing I picked up my pace, shivering, but not from the cold this time, but from the fact
that I had disappointed Rose. And as I took my seat next to Alberta on the plane I
couldnt help but feel a pang of sadness. I never wanted to witness that expression on
Rose ever again. She deserved better.
As the plane took off I vowed to myself that I would never disappoint her again. I also
silently promised myself as the plane was in the air that I would never ever be the cause
for that expression to come up on her face again.
Chapter 13:
I glanced out the window as the plane flew through the air. Although I couldnt see
anything I was reminded of the first time I met Rose. She too looked out the window and
ignored what the person next to her was trying to say.
I wasnt ignoring Alberta parse but I was trying my best to keep things blunt and to the
point. I had a lot of things on my mind and I just wanted time to think. Alberta must have
guessed this halfway through our conversation because she stopped talking and
resorted to leaning her head back and closing her eyes.
I sighed out of relief and returned back to the blackened window. My heart still ached at
the disappointment I had caused Rose. It was like her face was sketched on the inside
of my eyelids. So whenever I blinked Id see that memory and I would cringe a little.
I never thought Id feel this much pain before. And I never realized I cared about
someones respect and honor for me as much as I did now; especially when it involved
Rose. To see her face fall like that was like her saying she didnt love me. Which I
hoped too, would never come out of her mouth.
I sighed again and placed my hand under my chin, my eyes awake and alert, despite
my shortened sleep last night. When I was about to lean back I heard her voice from a
row behind me and to the right.
Adrian. She said; her voice seemed to be full of pain and not mental either. My heart
leapt at the thought because if it was I knew I wouldnt stop blaming myself for it.
Adrian kept talking, although I didnt know what about. I was more focused on the way
Rose said his name.
Adrian. She repeated, only this time with more force and much more pain. My heart
gave another leap at the sound. And it had something to do with the fact that she was in
pain this time.
I leaned forward a little, trying to catch what Adrian was saying. It could have been
offensive for all I knew. My fingers thrummed softly on my legs as I tried to look like I
wasnt eavesdropping.
And then a slit up the side to show off what great legs you have. It could go nearly to
the hip and have this cute little bow---
My fingers clinched so tight my knuckles turned white. And that was saying something
considering my naturally tanned skin. I tried to keep my posture composed; I didnt need
Alberta thinking something was off by the way I was reacting to Adrians words.
Considering everyone knew Moroi guys hit on dhampir girls all the time, and normally
we never thought about it much at school. But this wasnt any other dhampir. It was my
dhampir girl being hit on.
Adrian! Adrian stopped in mid-sentence as Roses voice rose to a scream. It was loud
enough for the pilot to hear Im sure. We all jumped, and I tried to hide a smile playing at
my lips from the look on Adrians face. Will you shut the hell up for five seconds?
Alberta shot up, the air stirring violently at her rapid movement. I followed her; and my
feet nearly gave underneath me from standing up too fast. Rose, she exclaimed.
Whats going on?
I turned so I could see Roses face. And when I did a new emotion drowned out the
others pressing against my chest.
She gritted her teeth and rubbed her forehead. I have the worst fucking headache in
the world, and he wont shut up. The way she cursed told me she didnt even realize
she had just sworn in front of an instructor. Her face held a hint of surprise a moment
later.
She winced in pain and the emotion faded. It was like something was physically pushing
her. Guardian instincts kicked in as I hastily looked around the plane for eyes ringed
with red. But I saw none so I resorted back to Roses pain filled face.
God, why wont it go away? Her voice was barely over a whisper but I heard it, and it
made my heart race even faster. I was starting to think Id get a heart attack soon if it
didnt stop.
Alberta looked at her confused and opened her mouth to respond, but Christian beat
her to it. She hasnt eaten today. She was really hungry earlier.
Albertas face was filled with concern, as she moved closer to Rose. I hovered behind
her, not wanting to interfere with the head Guardians conversation, well unless I had
to.
Rose met my eyes for a second before glancing around at the air like something was
there. I looked around the plane again but didnt notice anything wrong with it. And
when I looked back down at Rose she blinked rapidly, and a wash of relief fell over her
face as she looked back up at Alberta. Her eyes just grazing mine for a moment.
Alberta turned to one of the flight attendants. Can you get her something to eat? And
find a painkiller
I would have stayed quiet if it wasnt that look on Roses face. It was like she was lost
and scared at the same time, my heart sang for the millionth time today as I tried to
keep myself as composed as possible. Wheres it at? The pain?
Her eyes met mine, and my heart sped up even more. Its a headacheIm sure itll go
away I gave her a stern look, knowing she would take that as a hint that that wasnt
good enough. With as much snarkiness as she could muster she pointed to her
forehead. Its like something pushing on my skull. And theres pain kind of behind my
eyes. I keep feeling likewell, its like Ive got something in my eye. I think Im seeing a
shadow or something. Then I blink and its gone.
I opened my mouth to tell her what it was but Alberta beat me to it. Ah, thats a
migraine symptom---having vision problems. Its called an aura. People sometimes get it
before the headache sets in.
An aura? Rose asked startled. She glanced up at Adrian who was kneeling on his seat
so he could look over the headrest at her. And by the way he was holding himself I
could tell he was drunk. I shook my head in disappointment at that.
Not that kind, he said, a small smile turning up his lips. The way he was looking at her
didnt seem right to me, and for some reason my fingers clinched, for the second time
on this plain trip, making a tight fist. Same name. Like Court and court. Migraine auras
are images and light you see when a migraines coming on. They have nothing to do
with the auras around people I see. But I tell youthe aura I can seethe one around
you wow. His expression changed from being interested in her to curiosity. My
fingers started to ache as I forced them back open. The blood circulating back into them
hurt a little but I ignored the pain.
I glanced back at Rose. Black?
And then some. Its obvious even after all the drinks Ive had. Never seen anything like
it.
She stared at him like she didnt comprehend what he was saying, but soon forgot all
about it when the flight attendant returned with a banana, a granola bar, and some
ibuprofen. Which she inhaled the moment it was handed to her. She then propped a
pillow up against the window; closing her eyes.
I returned to my seat after making Alberta switch with me. If something happened like
that again I wanted to be the first one there.
I found myself continually glancing back at Rose as if she was going to have a sudden
outburst again. But when it didnt come after an hour, I pulled out my old battered
western book and settled into my seat for the long flight.
Chapter 14:
We stepped off the plane and were immediately hit with wet, blustery weather. Sleet
cracked into us, far worse than the flaky white snow falling back in Montana. We were
on the East Coast now, or well, close to it. The queens court was in Pennsylvania, near
the Pocono Mountains, I had been there several times, and even had worked there for a
few years before being moved to St. Vladimirs.
The runway wed landed on was part of the Courts property, so we were already behind
wards. It was just like the Academys small landing strip. In fact, in many ways, the
Royal Court was laid out exactly like the school. It was what they told humans the
compound was, actually. The Court was a collection of buildings, beautiful and ornate,
spreading across well-tended grounds adorned with trees and flowers. At least, the land
would be adorned with them when spring came, like I remembered.
We were met by a group of five guardians, all dressed in black pants and matching
coats, with white shirts underneath. They werent uniforms exactly, but custom usually
dictated that for formal occasions, guardians wear some sort of nice ensemble. By
comparison, in our regular outfits: jeans and T-shirts, our group looked like somebodys
poor relations.
The guardians immediately looked in Albertas and my direction. Nodding before going
through the regular formalities, which after everyone became relaxed and friendly. We
were all eager to get in out of the cold, our escorts led us toward the buildings
I quickly shook the thought away as I sat down on one of the overly plush chairs in my
room. With nothing else to do but, well nothing, I decided to pull out the battered old
western I had been reading on the plane and I continued reading that.

I had just begun the last chapter when I heard a knock at the door. I set my book down
and looked around the room. Instincts telling me to check and make sure no Strigoi, or
humans, are hiding out in my room, waiting for the kill.
I shook my head at that, I was in the Court, I had to stop thinking like I would at the
Academy. As I neared the door I could smell a fait familiar smell that got my heart
racing. I smoothed out my shirt before opening the door.
I took one look at her and my heart almost busted out of my chest. I was immediately
reminded of the night when Victor had put that lust charm on us. I took a step back, and
pretended to look surprised as I opened the door wider. Ready for her to attack.
I have to talk to you, she said. And I stepped away allowing her to fully come in.
V.D.---
I interrupted her, knowing those initials. I had gotten a letter from those same initials
years ago when he had asked me to be his daughters future guardian. And this had
been before I even knew about Rose and Lissa. I had turned him down that time, even
though he was a royal, and at the time, a really nice Moroi. I had other plans and
intentions at the time, and had told him I had my own Moroi to look after.
The note that she had handed me claimed that he was going to tell on us at his Trial.
And I didnt want to believe any word of it. My heart quickened once again.
Yeah, I know, I said. I handed the note back to her. Victor Dashkov.
What are we going to do? I mean, we talked about this, but now he really is saying hes
going to sell us out.
I glanced out the open window, not knowing what to think. I knew she was right, and if
that happened my career as a future guardian for Lissa would be over. And I dont know
what I would do if that actually happened.
My thoughts raced as I tried to come up with a strategic plan of getting us out of this
mess. My mind assessed every angle of what was soon to come. I have done a lot of
stupid things in my years at the Academy, but nothing as stupid as what I was about to
do.
I took a deep breath and without looking at her, I pulled out my cell phone. She gave me
a questioning look. Give me a moment.
She walked away from me as I walked towards the window. I was preparing to walk
right into a death trap, right into the spiders lair and I wasnt a hundred percent sure that
I was ready for it. But for Rose, Id do almost anything.
After talking to the head guardian of the prison here I hung up and faced Rose.
Whats going on? She asked after I finished.
Ill let you know soon. For now, we have to wait.
Great. My favorite thing to do.
I dragged an armchair up and sat opposite of her. I didnt want our emotions for each
other to get the best of us. And the smell of her so close to me made my whole skin
crawl. And my fingers had begun to itch to touch that hair of hers.
She picked up the western novel I had been reading. Why do you read these?
Some people read books for fun. I said. I chose my words carefully. Afraid that if I said
the wrong thing, the air between us would spark and things would get complicated.
Hey, watch the dig. And I do read books. I read them to solve mysteries that threaten
my best friends life and sanity. I dont think reading this cowboy stuff is really saving the
world like I do.
I took the book from her and flipped it over, the scenes in it flashing through my head as
I re-read the description. Like any book, its an escape. And theres something mmm.
I dont know. Something appealing about the Old West. No rules. Everyone just lives by
their own code. You dont have to be tied down by others ideas of right and wrong in
order to bring justice.
Wait, Rose interrupted me with a soft laugh. I thought I was the one who wanted to
break rules.
I didnt say I wanted to. Just that I can see the appeal.
You cant fool me, comrade. You want to put on a cowboy hat and keep lawless bank
robbers in line.
I tried to ignore my racing heart. I was beginning to wonder if the death of me would be
caused by a heart attack. No time. I have enough trouble keeping you in line.
She grinned, and I was reminded when we cleaned the church, before the fight. The air
between us felt easy, comfortable. It was a lot like the old days when wed first begun
training together, way back before everything had gotten so complicated in our
relationship.
Seeing her like that made a pang of sadness rise in my chest. I had really wanted to
make her happy, and I couldnt even get her here. And whats worse is that Adrian did
and I didnt. The real reason why she was happy was because of him, not me. I sighed.
Im sorry.
For what? Reading cheesy novels?
For not being able to get you here. I feel like I let you down. My face fell a little, I knew
it showed the emotion I felt, and for the first time I let Rose get a glimpse at it before I
put my best impression of a statue.
She was speechless for a moment as she stared at me with wide dark eyes. Her face
fell as she continued to stare at me.
You didnt, she said. I acted like a total brat. Youve never let me down before. You
didnt let me down with this.
My emotions burst and I felt grateful she had said that. Because I didnt know how I
would live with myself if I knew I had caused her that much pain. The guilt would have
eaten me alive.
I was about to tell her how much this meant to me. How much she meant to me, but
instead, my phone rang.
I spoke in Russian to the guardian on the other end so Rose wouldnt get any ideas too
quickly. After I finished I stood up. All right, lets go.
Where?
To see Victor Dashkov.
Chapter 15:

Why are we doing this? Rose whispered as we walked down the hall toward Victors
cell. The place was designed with marble floors and stark white walls. There were no
windows and it felt more like a hospital than an actual prison. You think we can talk him
out of it?
That had been my plan originally but, unfortunately given Victors stubbornness, it
wasnt likely. I shook my head. If victor wanted to take revenge on us, hed just do it
without any warning. He doesnt do things without a reason. The fact that he told you
first means he wants something, and now were going to find out what it is.
We reached Victors cell. He was the only prisoner currently being held. And like the rest
of the facility, his room reminded me more of a hospital. Everything was clean, bright,
and sterile---and very bare. It was a place without any sort of stimulus or distraction
whatsoever. The cell had silver bars that looked very hard to break, which was the most
important part.
Victor sat in a chair, idly examining his nails. It had been three months since our last
meeting, and seeing him again made my hands ache for a weapon. And for the first
time I wasnt surprised at that feeling, in fact I welcomed it because it was the one thing
I wanted most.
One of the hardest things of all was seeing him look so healthy and young. Hed bought
that health by torturing Lissa. If his disease had run its normal course, he might be dead
by now.
He had receding black hair, with only the slightest touch of silver. He was in his forties
and had a regal, almost handsome cut to his face. He glanced up at our approach. Eyes
the same pale jade as Lissas. The Dragomir and Dashkov families had a lot of
intertwined history. A smile lit his face.
Oh my. This is a treat. Lovely Rosemarie, practically an adult now. His eyes flicked in
my direction. Of course, some have been treating you that way for quite a while.
I could feel her tense at my side as she pressed her face to the bars. Stop screwing
with us, you son of a bitch. What do you want?
I put a gentle hand on her shoulder and pulled her back. I didnt need guardians to
come down and eavesdrop on our conversation. Easy, Rose.
She took a deep breath and then slowly stepped backward. Victor straightened up in his
chair and laughed.
After all this time, your cub still hasnt learned ay control. But then, maybe you never
wanted her to. His eyes were piercing as he stared at me like I was a huge threat.
We arent here to banter, I said as calmly as I could. You wanted to lure Rose over,
and now we need to know why.
Does there have to be some sinister reason? I just wanted to know how she was doing,
and something tells me we arent going to have a chance for any friendly chats
tomorrow. The smirk that stayed on his face made me want to strangle him. And I
deeply wished I had the chance like I did when my rescue team and I had saved Lissa.
Were not going to have a friendly chat now, Rose growled. I knew her to be ruthless
and cruel. But never before had I heard her voice take that deep of a tone.
Victor wasnt moved by her threat. You think Im joking, but Im not. I really do want to
know how youre doing. Youve always been a fascinating subject to me, Rosemarie.
The only Shadow-kissed person we know of. I told you before, that isnt the kind of thing
you walk away from unscathed. Theres no way you can quietly sink into the regimented
routine of academic life. People like you arent meant to blend in.
Im not some kind of science experiment.
Victor continued, acting as if Rose hadnt said a word. Whats it been like? What have
you noticed?
I didnt like the way he was observing her as if she were a lab rat. My pulse quickened
as my fingers began to throb for a weapon. Theres no time for this. If you dont get to
the point, I warned, were going to leave.
My voice remained calm, throughout all the exploding emotions running through me.
Rose leaned forward and gave Victor a cold smile. Theres no way theyll let you off
tomorrow. I hope you enjoy prison. I bet itll be great once you get sick again---and you
will, you know.
Victor regarded her levelly, still with that amused look. All things die, Rose. Well,
except for you, I suppose. Or maybe you are dead. I dont know. Those who visit the
world of the dead can probably never fully shake their connection to it.
That made Rose pause. I glanced down at her, wondering what she would come up
with because I honestly didnt know what to say to that. What could I say? I didnt know
anything about death, other than causing it. But that wasnt even close to what she has
experienced.
Victor must had sensed this too because he gave her a speculative look. Yes? Theres
something youd like to say?
She swallowed hard and looked at him as seriously as she could. What is the world of
the dead? Is it heaven or hell?
Neither, he said.
What lives there? She exclaimed. Ghosts? Will I go back? Do things come out of it?
I looked at her curiously. The way she was talking made it sound like she knew what it
was like to be on the other side. Except the incident where she had died.
Victor was taking great pleasure in Rose having to come to him for information. His
smirk intensified.
Well, clearly some things come out of it, because here you stand before us.
I saw that familiar flicker in his eyes that made my hatred for him heat up inside my
chest. Hes baiting you, let it go.
Victor gave me a brief glare. Im helping her. He turned back to Rose. Honestly? I
dont know that much about it. Youre the one who has been there, rose. Not me. Not
yet. Someday, youll probably be the one educating me. Im sure the more you deal
death out, the closer youll become to it.
I could see his face turn into something else. As if he was thriving for Rose to ask him
another question. And it was really starting to get under my skin. Enough, were going.
Wait, wait, said Victor, voice congenial. You havent told me about Vasilisa yet.
I had one had on Rose now, but his words made every muscle under my hand tense as
she whipped around and moved forward again. Stay away from her. She doesnt have
anything to do with this. Roses voice had taken on that same dark tone and it made
me want to step back.
Victor on the other hand gave her a dry look. Seeing as Im locked away here, I have
no choice but to stay away from her, my dear. And youre wrong---Vasilisa has
everything to do with everything.
Thats it, Rose said, suddenly getting something. Thats why you sent the note. You
wanted me here because you wanted to know about her, and you knew there was no
way shed come talk to you herself. You had nothing to blackmail her with.
Blackmails an ugly word.
Theres no way youre going to see her---at least outside of the courtroom. Shes never
going to heal you. I told you. Youre going to get sick again, and youre going to die.
Youre going to be the one sending me postcards from the other side.
You think thats what this is about? You think my needs are that petty? The mockery
was gone, replaced by a feverish and almost fanatical look in his green eyes. The tight
set of his mouth stretched the skin of his face a little, and I noticed that he had lost
weight since our last encounter. Youve forgotten everything, why I did what I did.
Youve been so caught up in your own shortsightedness that you missed the big picture
I was looking at.
Rose thought about that for a moment. And after a few minutes it clicked. You wanted
to stage a revolution---still what to. Thats crazy. Its not going to happen.
I stared back and forth between the two, barely believing what I was hearing.
Its already happening. Do you think I dont know whats going on out in the world? I still
have contacts. People can be bought off---how do you think I was able to send you that
message? I know about the unrest---I know about Natasha Ozeras movement to get
Moroi to fight with guardians. You stand by her and vilify me, Rosemarie, but I pushed
for the very same thing last fall. Yet, somehow, you dont seem to regard her in the
same way.
Just hearing him talk about Tasha that way made something in my chest boil. Tasha
Ozera is working on her cause a bit differently that you did.
And thats why shes getting nowhere. He resorted. Tatiana and her council are being
held back by centuries of archaic traditions. So long as that sort of power rules us,
nothing will change. We will never learn to fight. Non-royal Moroi will never have a
voice. Dhampirs like you will continually be sent out to battle.
Its what we dedicate our lives to, I said. The tension inside of me was beginning to
build.
And its what you lose your lives for. Youre all but enslaved and dont even realize it.
And for what? Why do you protect us?
I opened my mouth but Rose beat me to it. Because we need you, she faltered. For
our race to survive.
You dont need to throw yourselves into battle for that. Making children isnt really that
difficult.
She ignored his quip. And because the Moroi the Moroi and their magic are
important. They can do amazing things.
Victor threw his hands up in exasperation. And I flinched, automatically thinking he was
going to hurt Rose. We used to do amazing things. Humans used to revere us as gods,
but over time, we grew lazy. The advent of technology made our magic more and more
obsolete. Now, all we do is parlor tricks.
If you have so many ideas, I interrupted, my hatred for him sparking every part of my
body, then do something useful in prison and write a manifesto.
And whats this have to do with Lissa anyway? Rose asked.
Because Vasilisa is a vehicle for change.
Rose stared incredulously. You think shes going to lead your revolution?
Well, Id prefer that I lead it---someday. But, regardless, I think that shes going to be
part of it. Ive heard about her too. Shes a rising star---still young, certainly, but people
are taking notice. All royals arent created equal, you know. The Dragomir symbol is a
dragon, the king of the beasts. Likewise, the Dragomir blood has always been powerful-
--thats why the Strigoi have targeted them so consistently. A Dragomir returning to
power is no small thing---particularly one such as her. My impression from the reports is
that she must have mastered her magic. If thats so---with her gifts---theres no telling
what she could do. People are drawn to her with almost no effort on her part. And when
she actually tries to influence them well, theyll do anything she wants. His eyes were
wide as he spoke, wonder and happiness on his face as he imagined Lissa living out his
dreams.
Unbelievable, rose said. First you wanted to hide her away to keep you alive. Now
you actually want her out in the world to use her compulsion for your own psycho
plans.
I told you, shes a force for change. And like you being shadow-kissed, shes the only
one of her kind that we know about. That makes her dangerous---and very valuable.
Well, that was something. Victor wasnt all-knowing after all. He didnt know about
Adrians spirit use.
Lissa will never do it, Rose said. Shes not going to abuse her powers.
And victors not going to say anything about us, I said as I tugged at Roses arm. Hes
achieved his goal. He brought you here because he wanted to know about Lissa.
He didnt find out much, Rose responded.
Youd be surprised, said Victor. He grinned at me. And what makes you so certain I
wont enlighten the world about your romantic indiscretions?
Normally I would have just shrugged it off, but his statement really had gotten under my
skin and had struck a nerve. To me, what he was saying was similar to what Stan had
said to me the night I had thrown him against a wall. Anyone who even tried to threaten
Rose was a threat to me.
I hated for her to see me this way, but honestly? I didnt care; all I wanted was for him
to understand that I will not back down from this, even if it means Id lose my job.
Because it wont save you from prison. And if you ruin Rose, youll destroy whatever
weak chance you had of Lissa helping you with your warped fantasy. Victor flinched a
little. Some part of me liked the fact that I had hurt him. I stepped forward, pressing
close to the bars as Rose had earlier. My voice lowered and I could mentally taste the
venom dripping off my tongue. And itll all be pointless anyway, because you wont stay
alive long enough in prison to stage your grand plans. You arent the only one with
connections.
It wouldnt exactly be protecting me. Itd be after the fact---cold-blooded. You dont do
that kind of thing. Revenge is more my thing. Ill have to kill him.
Just the thought of her trying to protect me was too unbearable to think about. There
can only be one martyr in our relationship and I was ready to take that title. Her life was
important to me and I want to be the one to make sure she lives it to the fullest. Even if
that means dying for her.
But thats what guardians are. Martyrs, we die for the ones we are sworn to protect and
even learn to love. We agree to protect our Moroi in any way we can, even if it means
ending our life for theirs.
Art did the same for his Moroi family, and I knew he loved them as if they were blood
from the stories hed tell me and how each child was like his own. He loved them more
than he could express.
That was the danger of our job. We become so attached, we start to love our Moroi
assignments like family. And its what got Art killed in the end. Its what can get me killed
in the end from protecting both Lissa and Rose at the same time.
Dont talk like that. I told her sternly. I didnt need her taking revenge. If anything did
happen to me, I knew she wont stop searching till the man who killed me was dead.
And anyway, it doesnt matter. Victors not going to say anything.
I shivered at the sight of Rose going to great lengths to take revenge for whatever did
happen to me. She was a great novice, and I knew she was going to be a killer guardian
later on in life. And just the idea of her taking her skills too far and end up dying
because she loved me made my blood turn cold.
I shook my head, this needed to stop. We needed to find another way to guard Lissa,
one so we wouldnt both end up dead in the end.
After that I left her to go back to my own room. Partly because I needed to rest before
Victors hearing. But mostly because I had a lot of thinking to do if Rose and I were
going to be Lissas future guardians.
Chapter 17:
Later that night I took out Roses clothes from the rooms closet. Victors trial was
tomorrow and I wanted to get these to her as soon as possible. Before walking out the
door I quickly scribbled down her name on a card. When I grabbed the door handle I
thought of something else.
Setting the clothes down I leaned against the wall, holding the small card in my hand as
I carefully wrote Wear your hair up. A lot of female guardians cut their hair to show off
their molnija marks. I remembered she had considered cutting it once and I immediately
told her no. I loved her hair and suggested wearing it up if she wanted to show off her
marks.
Just thinking about her cutting her hair was unbearable. It wouldnt feel as silky,
wouldnt be the same when I ran my hands through it. After all it is the feature that got
me to notice her in the first place.
I was nervous for her tomorrow, for both of us. If she decided to let her impulsive
attitude get in the way I might very well be in the wall between her and Victor. There will
be more guardians than necessary tomorrow, trained and tense. Rose wouldnt make it
two steps to Victor before someone brought her down. And I was prepared to throw
myself between her and Victor to stop her from ripping his head off. Even if I had that
urge as well.
Lissa was our priority, we protect her and only her. If something happened to Rose
where she got thrown in jail Lissa would be left unprotected.
My heart raced at the thought of Victor exposing us both. Then no one would be able to
protect Lissa the way we could.

After calling service I got a Moroi girl to take the clothes that I had assembled for Rose:
A white top, black pants, and a black matching jacket. I attached the note before
handing it over to the terrified looking girl. Rumors spread like wild fire among our world,
so it was no surprise that she was looking at me in both awe and fear. Too bad most of
the stories werent true.
I sighed when I shut the door.
When no one else said anything, I finished up my statement, and then Christian was
called up. As I took my place in the back I glared at Victors aging head. It was one thing
to sit there and smile, but another to laugh and interrupt me.
My blood was boiling through Christians speech. His part was short. Hed been with
Lissa when shed been taken and had been knocked out. His contribution was being
able to ID some of Victors guardians as the kidnappers. Once Christian had sat down
Rose was called up.
My heart quickened. She shouldnt have to do this, this wasnt right. I know she has an
opinion but shes up there, unguarded, in front of Victor and his wicked words and
staring eyes.
She walked up, looking calm and determined. That, at least, calmed my racing heart a
little. As she said her name and gave her oath to be honest I could see her cringe.
Although it wasnt physical, more mental. I saw it. I knew her well enough to notice
when she was troubling over something that she knew was wrong.
Her version was pretty straightforward. She had details to offer from before the night of
the kidnapping, like about where Victor had laid his traps to test Lissas powers.
Otherwise her story lined up with mine and everyone elses pretty well.
When Rose mentioned the charm she glanced at Victor, who was staring intently at her.
Making her stiffen, her fingers clutched and unclenched at her sides. A movement that
told me she was seconds away from pouncing on him. I was too far away to stop her,
and at an angle where she cant see me as well. The best I could do was pray.
For both of us to make it out alive.
Victor had complete power over Rose and me to ruin everything for us in front of all
these people no matter what I had threatened him.
Other than the clutching of her hands I was proud of her for staying so calm. I was
satisfied that she had grown so much. Some of it had to do with my trainings, but mostly
it was Spokane and Lissas life that shaped Rose for who she is today: a woman.
When she finished her whole body sagged with relief that Victor hadnt said anything
during her testimony. Lissa passed her, taking Roses place.
As the victim, she offered the first perspective thus far, and everyone there grew caught
up in her story. It was compelling; no one had ever heard anything like it. And without
even trying Lissa was using her spirit-induced charisma, the same place that came from
compulsion.
People were enraptured and sympathetic. When Lissa described the torture Victor had
put her through to force her to heal him, faces went pale with shock. Even the Queens
stern mask faltered a little.
The most amazing thing was how calm Lissa was about it. Even when she spoke about
what the air user had done to her; she had a mask of stone. But I knew she was just as
hurt as she had been that night, the pressure of stares and breathing down her neck
caused her to be unnaturally calm.
After Lissa sat back down, Victor was called to take her place. From the look on his
face, you would have never guessed he was on trial. He wasnt angry or outraged like I
have seen a thousand times with other contestants in this room. He didnt plead. He
looked like we were all hanging out somewhere, like he had nothing in the world to
worry about.
Even when answering, he spoke as though he made perfect sense. When the
prosecuting lawyer asked why hed done what he had, he looked at her as though she
were crazy.
Why, I had no choice, he said pleasantly. I was dying. No one was going to condone
me openly experimenting with the princesss powers. What would you have done in my
place?
The lawyer ignored that. She was having a hard time keeping the disgust off of her face.
And you found coaxing your own daughter into turning Strigoi also necessary?
Everyone in the courtroom shifted uncomfortably. One of the most awful things about
Strigoi was that they were made, not born. A Strigoi could force a human, a dhampir, or
a Moroi into becoming Strigoi if the Strigoi drank the victims blood and then fed Strigoi
blood back to the victim. It didnt matter if the victim wanted it or not, and once she
became Strigoi, she lost all sense of her old, moral self. She embraced becoming a
monster and killing others to survive. Strigoi converted others if they found someone
they thought would strengthen their ranks. Sometimes they did it just out of cruelty.
Ill try to continue writing, give me your review
about it please.