{ IX. I don't know what I am Becoming

- Finally after so many tests, the company's owner accepted with great happiness the start of testing. Your biological capabilities go beyond the expected and will be really useful. We all assembled specifically testing schedule for you, however we would like to know if there is something you want to modify.

- No, only the changes of the tests are enough for me.

- Great. Please follow Nora, she will prepare you for the first test. I meet you there.

  Matthew never thought he'd wear that coat again. However, it was for that person that he was doing it and that was his only hope.

- Where is the sample?

- Here, sir.

- Bring to room where Dustin Gates is. And take a sample of his blood.

  The girl disappeared at once toward the bedroom as he tried to swallow the bitter taste of bile for thinking of deal with samples again.

- You look fine.

- Just a little blood will not hurt me.

  Dustin silently watched Matthew cautiously mix his blood with the contents of another vial was turquoise. After mixing, he put in a syringe.

- The changes may appear in a few moments in a peaceful manner. However, if you feel pain or something do not hesitate to call me at any time, do not worry.

  He looked at Matthew, intrigued by the fact that it all happened so quickly.

- Here is the combined - he put two thousand euros in the hands of Dustin - Hope to see you tomorrow.

- What will happen to me?

- There is nothing wrong. I think this will be really useful for you.

- You're back already?

- I also amazed me, though he said that was enough for today. Where is Chiara?

- It's in the bedroom. Just went back from school.

  Dustin went to the girl's room and saw her lying on the floor trying to achieve something that was under the dresser.

- What happened?

- I think something dropped here.

- I will help you.

  Chiara had completely forgotten what had fallen when she saw Dustin lift the dresser with ease.

- Why are you looking at me like that?

  He realized what Chiara was watching. Perhaps it was this change that Matthew was talking about. However, why have more physical strength would be essential for them? Well, what was left now was wait. He put the dresser back on the ground.

- Come on, Blair is waiting for us.

  The table and the food were ready when the two came down and Chiara said to Blair about the Dustin's strength.

- That's true?

  He raised the refrigerator with only one arm.

- Are you still sure about what you have chosen?

- Yes, I have nothing to complain about.

- You do not know what you are becoming.

- No, I do not know. But I'll have to find out.

ɱɛʀʀy x-ɱɑร

all credits to the owner. :3

Minna!!! 

I'm passing to wish you Merry Christmas and thank for all the support, I'll be back soon, promise! 

{ VIII. Attention

- Sir.

- Matthew, I got your message.

- Impressive, is not it?

- I must admit so. I never imagined that this country would house a piece as valuable as him. Make sure that all procedures occur properly, it may be the first of many we have planned.

- I know what I'm doing, I should have full confidence in me.

- And I have. However, I am afraid of losing a chance as scarce as this.

- Do not worry, I will take care of all the changes personally so that nothing goes beyond planned.

- You rarely sets out to do that. What happened? Still feels guilty for what happened to Melissa?

- Shut up. We're not talking about her.

  Matthew growled when he heard the laughter of his "boss", but knew he could look angry, otherwise he could lose his sister.

- I'm counting on you, Matthew. Do not take your eyes off neither over him nor the family.

- You have my word.

  He hung up and sat on the bed. Sometimes he wanted to disappear, simply having peace and tranquility to take care of his sister. His gaze turned to a notebook that was on his desk.

- Do not worry, I'll take good care of him. I will not let anything happen to any cell of him. However, I will not do for you, but for someone else.

  She sat on the floor, staring at the door as usual. The others were sleeping and so she did not make any noise when she saw him entering the room.

- I said I would come, did not I?

  Melissa nodded, happy to see him and with a tray in hands. Matthew sat down next to her and put the tray on the floor. He handed her a cup of hot tea and opened the jar containing biscuits.

  As she finished eating, he took her hair brush and, like a very caring father, left her hair as it should be. What hurt him was remember that before he had ever done that for her, now that he had become a prisoner of his own guilt.

  She held out a cookie for him.

- I'm fine, my love. Do not worry about me.

  Melissa insisted, this time pointing to his belly and holding his little finger so that he realized how thin he was. Matthew smiled at her.

- You noticed?

  The girl agreed.

- I admit that I have no more time to feed me as I should, especially after that boy appeared.

"I do not want you to get sick," she wrote on a piece of paper.

  For him, it was a blow. Melissa knew that everything that happened to her was because Matthew gave her to the researchers to serve as a guinea pig. For more afraid she had that day, he did not to notice and now even suffering like that she still cared for him, she still loved him.

- I'm really sorry. I know nothing I say will change what happened to you, but I wanted you to know how much I regret for not having thought of you. If it was really for you serve as a test, so I even should have done it. At least you could still talk and live normally as before.

 The girl put her head on his shoulder, like she did not care what happened. She took that same piece of ground paper and started writing.

"I do not care why have happened. At least I can have my real brother to me every day.".

  His eyes watered for a second. She did not have to become another being to be loved by him. Even with all he had to do and busier than he was in those years, the only thought that surrounded his mind was to be with Melissa.

  She yawned and snuggled closer to him to sleep. Matthew held her in his arms and laid her on the bed, when he also laid at the first time. Melissa opened her eyes, hoping he would say goodbye as usual, but he did not.

- I'll stay here this time. If you let.

  The smile that was on her lips and in her eyes was more precious than any words she could say. He hugged her and feeling her breath so close to him, he slept as peacefully as he thought.

{ VII. The Begining of a New Life

- You have come early.

  Matthew was leaving the elevator, with a haggard expression he struggled to hide.

- We arrived in bad time?

- Do not bother with it. While you were on the way, I took the liberty to arrange the house of you and all that is within it. Please follow me.

  They got into the car and followed a few blocks from firm up to park in front of a bigger house than the one where they were living during those months. It was a really sophisticated townhouse and it certainly should not was cheap.

- You will be here. Different from what we usually do with the other, the owner of the company has enabled this house was a gift of welcome.

- What does that mean?

- It means that the house is yours even if Dustin decides to leave our company. No one can take it from you starting today. We are investing in the country of you so it does not lose its independence and my superiors were able to convince some other nations to help. Therefore, I believe that you will not need to worry about to move again. Also, I even took the liberty to enroll the child in a school that has strong relationships with our company. I can take care of her well-being throughout the school term of her. Also, the sooner she starts to attend the school it will be best for her.

- When should she go?

- Tomorrow, if possible.

  Matthew handed the keys to Dustin, who opened the door of the house with anxiousness. Chiara was the first to come in and see that the house was fully furnished: the living room, the kitchen, all rooms and other rooms. There were only the furniture, but the electronic equipment that were essential for them with technology that nobody in the country had access unless the own company.

- Dustin's function starts from today at the company. So you both have all day free. - He handed two cards to Blair and other key - You know how to drive, right? - She agreed - In the garage there is a car waiting for you. The wardrobes are empty and the cupboards and suggest you spend time making the necessary purchases.

  It would be easy for Blair wandering around the city, as the capital knew like the back of hand because of the frequent trips that her dad was there. Chiara said goodbye to Dustin and they went to the garage while Matthew took the boy back to the company.

- Do not you worry. They will only do all the specific tests in the early days to know what can and can not do to you in the course of the tests.

  When they returned to the main hall, there was a middle-aged woman dressed in a white coat waiting for them.

- You must be Dustin Gates.

- Yes.

- She is Nora, the responsible for the tests that you will do. She is our most capable professional, has been with us ever since our company began to grow. Feel free to fully trust her.

- I thought you...

  Matthew smiled.

- No. I am personal assistant of the owner of the corporation from the beginning and I am here only for supervisory absolutely everything as he solves the political and diplomatic issues of this country to continue with the research.

- But for this you should have enough knowledge of each area, right?

- Of course. As the owner of the company, I know all departments and all functions. My knowledge in all areas here can be compared with those of a marshal in a battlefield.

  Dustin swallowed and it did not go unnoticed by any of the other two.

- Matthew has more knowledge than we realize. He solves most of the problems that appear in the company and it is our most representative for international relations. Come on, we have many tests to do for today and we do not have any second shot.

  The boy had no time to ask something that was important to him: if Matthew had so much knowledge and skills, why he does not use the resources to heal Melissa? Does not he care about her condition?

- How will Dusin is?

- I hope he's all right.

  Chiara and Blair were finishing to save the last groceries they bought. For them, the day was really tiring, but were able to buy all that was necessary for everyone and just one afternoon.

- I hope Dustin likes the clothes.

- I'm sure he will - Blair smiled - are exactly made for him. Come, let's start preparing dinner for sure Dustin will get hungry.

- I am glad for your results, kid.

  Dustin looked surprised to see that Matthew knew the test results.

- Your tests were ordered by the owner of the company urgently for analysis, so I was instructed to finalize the results. Rest and prepare for other exams tomorrow. Try to arrive as early as you can to move forward to all examinations and finally start with the tests themselves. Unlike the tests, the exams will have a lower price, that's why I need to pay you a thousand euros for today.

- Thank you so much.

- We are even more grateful to be able to rely on a biological delicacy like you. Do you need any driver take you home?

- Do not worry, I prefer walking.

- Dustin!

  Blair appeared in the room when she heard the exclamation from Chiara.

- What did they inject into you? Are you hurt? Do you feel something strange? That Matthew has done something to you?

- Blair, contain yourself. - Dustin took her hands - They will only do exams to know about my health and functioning of my body to fter begin the changes.

  She sighed, relieved and amazed by the amount of money that Dustin showed to her.

- They really are not worried about money. Thousand euros only for a few hours of exams is a really high value.

- Matthew said the owner of the company wants my results as soon as possible.

- How can him know that? What is Matthew function in that company at all?

- He is personal assistant to the owner and is here to supervision until things in our country return to normal. One of the employees named Nora said that Matthew has more knowledge than they realize about all the company's departments, as well as being favorite representative for international relations.

- He is not an ordinary man. And he certainly is not in this position because they like the work.

- What you mean?

- Of course he's the kind of person who is up plans to take the place of the owner. One way or another, he is subjugated to someone and that's what a mind of someone so bright not want for itself.

- You are thinking beyond time. We must wait and see what happens.

- I do not want to see, but I have no choice.

- Meanwhile we have left is to enjoy our own lives.

- Yes, but I'm not happy with the fact that I will be alone in this house.

- You know the capital like the back of your hand, I'm sure you'll find something to do. Moreover, Chiara is back from school in the afternoon. It is the beginning of a new life, Blair, and we should enjoy it to the fullest.

{ VI. I don't have any regret

"Please think about your sister. The money will not mean anything to her or to me if you're not here.".

 Dustin could not sleep with what Blair had said and the fact that Chiara was so close to him made the decision even harder. He remembered her eyes full of hope so met again amid the rubble and from that day she avoided being as far away from him. However, she seemed happy with what might happen. What to do? Matthew expect an answer the next day.

"What about the lives of people? They do not mean anything?

They are like test tubes for a chemical experiment. This means that for us they are just the recipient of our reactions. ".

 All companies thought so. However, they needed the money and there was no other way out. In addition, Matthew promised to offer all the medical care he needed after a test.

 "It is a factory of monsters, Dustin.". Melissa's image appeared in his mind. Does his fate would be something similar? Matthew assured with all his might not. However, how could he trust? Blair was right, but it was better to risk than continuing to count the money or to live and can not sleep because they are worried about the next day.

- Dustin?

  Chiara was with eyes wide open staring at him.

- What happened?

- Will you agree to work there?

- I'm still thinking.

- Please do not turn into one of those monsters.

- I will not.

- You promise?

- Yes. I promise.

  The Dustin's mobile rang exactly three o'clock in the afternoon. He did not look at the number to know who it was.

- What is your answer?

- I accept.

- Great. I send a driver to bring you and your family here. No need to bring any belongs, have everything you need here.

- I'm trusting you, Matthew.

- Do not you worry. You will be in excellent hands from now on. The car will come in an hour at the same place we met. I'll see you later.

- Dustin, you are sure what you're doing?

- Yes I've never been so sure..

- I hope you know what you're doing.

- Do not worry, Blair. I have no regrets of what I did.

  Blair supported the forehead and hands behind his back.

- Do not worry about me.

- Yes, I care and I will always worry. While you are in their hands I will not stop never worrying.

{ V. Factory of Monsters

  It was really a great company. Matthew was not kidding when he said they really possessed much money. On the outside, the building of them seemed greater than the presidential palace.
- Follow me. I will lead the floors and wards of the company. Please do not get separated. I also ask not to touch anything without permission, because again I say we work with products that can alter the genetics of you and no responsability me if this comes to pass.
  The door opened automatically and a breath of cold air from the air conditioning came toward them. Matthew was adapted and for him it was like a remedy, but the three were not used to that.
- Forgive me if it's too cold for you, but we need all the cooler and clean as we can because of our samples.
  The temperature of the thermometer marked 50 ° F (10 ° C) on the company's reception, but the staff did not seem bothered by it. They went to and fro without any clothes for the cold as usual.
- There is nothing too much to see here. It's just our main lobby to receive visitors.
  Matthew waited the three enter the elevator.
- The first two floors are for our "guinea pigs" - he glanced at Blair - They can stay there while they are not in testing, so we will not waste so much time with them.
  They followed the boy through the first floor, where there were several glass doors, allowing a view of the room all without going into it. Most of the rooms were empty and the others were asleep, except for one person who was in the last room.
  It was apparently a woman with long red hair, but when she heard footsteps down the hall turned her attention to the door and soon they realized that she was not a simple human woman they used to know. Had a black wing coming out of the left side of her back and claws like those of an eagle and some sharp teeth like a lion. Her eyes were the same as Matthew. Chiara hid behind Dustin, but the woman was not caring about the other three; when Matthew appeared, she struck the door violently and issued sounds and howls, where there was deep sadness.
- Do not worry, the doors are shielded and can not be broken.
- Why she was that way when she saw you?
  Blair saw him touch the bloodstain that was in the glass and whisper something before turning to answer.
- Does not matter. Let's continue.
- I saw you touching the bloodstain.
- You really are a good observer. - He looked back at the woman, who was sitting on the floor licking the right hand injury. - Melissa was my sister, but that does not matter anymore.
  Matthew led the way to the elevator and did not notice when Dustin and Blair exchanged glances about that. Chiara held both by the hand and pulled them out of there as soon as possible.
- Let's not go to the second floor because everyone is in testing. The third and fourth floor are the cold rooms where we keep our samples already tested. Only those with special permission can enter there.
- Matthew, what happened with Melissa? Why she was that way?
- Genetic modifications, remember? It was a test that went wrong and there's no way to make she go back to being human. After testing, Melissa was losing the voice and some sounds and their mentality has been reduced to a child. In addition, the only person who can approach her is me. After everything that happened, anyone else who works here and try to approach it ends up being literally torn apart.
- But...
- I will not expose my personal life nor Melissa. We are here to know the company.
  The elevator door to the fifth floor had opened, but they did not go.
- This floor is where we do the genetic alteration tests. Here we change the color of eyes, hair, skin tone and stature without harming any other body part. We received large sums of money from people who want to change something like that.
  He pressed the sixth floor button.
- This is the department where we make changes directly in the human genome and make changes in their DNA. It is also where we can grow plants, humans and animals hybrids. Well we finished the visit here.
- What about the other five floors?
- The seventh floor is the medical department, the eighth floor is the administrative and financial sector, the ninth floor is where is our director and the tenth floor is the research department, where we make new discoveries and improvements. Visitors are not allowed.
- But and about the eleventh floor?
- At the moment it is empty, waiting for the perfect completion of our tests. The visit of you ends here. I'll take back home and personally'll call tomorrow for a definitive answer.

- Dustin, will you accept?
- I guess so.
- That's crazy! You saw what happened with Melissa. Dustin, all they have no concern for others, Matthew is an example.
- But if I will be get pay for it, they can even kill me. What matters to me is to see you and Chiara well again.
  Blair turned her attention to girl.
- Chiara, honey, can you please start packing the kitchen for dinner?
  Dustin understood the intentions of Blair and waited until Chiara left the room.
- What are you thinking? You're the only person she now has in the world!
- And I think the same thing it nevertheless promised to look after her welfare first and foremost. For now, accept this is the only alternative.
- It is a factory of monsters, Dustin.
- A factory of monsters or not, Chiara is up to me to go back to live as before.

{ IV. Just a Thing

- Dustin, I do not think that's a good idea. Do you at least know what might happen?

- Blair, please take a chance. They promised to get us out and pay me. Think of Chiara, she does not deserve to remain so

- I think of Chiara, but I also think of you. I know that not long ago, but we are a family and I can not think of anything bad happening to you.

- Nothing bad will happen to me, they assured. Anyway, I can no longer do this when I don't want, right? So we have nothing to worry about.

- I'm not sure.

  Dustin took her hands.

- I understand your concern, but we have nothing better right now. Please promise me you'll give it a try.

  Blair sighed, without alternative. Chiara was eager, despite not having said a word the whole time and did not understand much about the subject. She snuggled her brother as usual and fell asleep immediately.

- What happened?

- I'm thinking.

  Blair was sitting near the window, where entered the pale moonlight. Dustin understood what she thought, but could not ignore that solution would have for all of them.

- How all this could happen?

- I do not know either. The only thing I know is that we must continue at all costs.

- Yes.

   Matthew's sedan was stopped in the same place just as the clock struck three pm. Chiara was the first to get in the car, pulling Blair eagerly by the arm in the back seat.

- She looks lively.

- Yes she is.

  Dustin did not understand Matthew's smile, but also followed him into the car. The silence hung in the air while they were en route to the company and the only thing that emitted a sound was the car radio that was on.

  As the car proceeded down the road, the three realized that the situation was better in other cities. The closer to the capital, the better was the situation of the cities that were around; still they had companies that were going bankrupt and banks that were breaking.

- How are you willing to pay such a large amount of money of while the country is in crisis?

  Blair did not seem concerned about the reaction of Matthew.

- We are not supported by the New Union. All our resources comes from New America, Asian business people and some countries in Europe.. We are settled in the country of you for improvement.

- So you just see us as guinea pigs?

- Blair, you are going too far.

- Do not worry about it, Dustin. - Matthew stared at him in the rearview mirror - like to discuss with minds like hers.

- You did not answer my question.

- Let's say you are completely lacking in financial resources and so are the only nation that does not offer resistance to our tests. We have the money and you have the raw material for our research. We are simply making an exchange.

- What about the people's lives? They mean nothing?

- They are like test tubes for a chemical experiment. This means that for us they are just the recipient of our reactions.

- How can you be so cold and calculating like this? People like you make me sick.

- You do not understand capitalism, so can not understand our conduct. I do not blame you for it.

- Does this then mean that Dustin is more of a "door" that brings money to you?

- Not exactly. We have the records of the surviving soldiers of the war and I must say that Dustin has remarkable resilience. So we'll treat him in a special way.

- Like for example?

- All humans are used for testing should be kept within our company and no contact with anyone who is outside the company. However, Dustin will return home once the tests are completed every day. You can get together on weekends and live normally. He has full assistance of our doctors if something happens.

- How do I know all this you are ensuring? Large traders also have a large ability to lie.

- I am a man of words, my dear. Do not worry about it.

{ III. Stardust Company

  Many papers were carried by the wind, but Dustin was not worried about it. The only thing he wanted was a solution so they could get out of there as soon as possible.

  Not far away, the boy saw a shadow by putting a paper in one of the posts that were there. Before he could approach that person, it had gone as quickly as it had appeared. However, the paper was still there. "Company Stardust" was what was written on the paper, which was saying that the company needed volunteers for a biological test session and would be paid each time they were called. Was that the solution to their problems? Dustin would have no way of knowing if trying not. He picked up the phone and called Blair.

- Dustin, where are you?

- I will take a little longer to return home. I think I found the solution to our problems.

- What you did you get?

- After we will talk, I promise. Be careful until I get back.

  He immediately called the phone number that was in the paper.

- Company Stardust, how can I help you?

- I am interested in knowing about the biological tests.

- Yes, sir Dustin. You could come to our company?

- Unfortunately not. I live far from the capital and have no money to go.

- I understand. I think Matthew is in your town, get in touch with him to find you. Please do not leave where you are.

- How do you...

  The operator hung up before Dustin could make an important question: how did she know where he was? And how did she know his name?

- Sir. Dustin?

- How do you know my name?

- The operator who spoke with you called me. My name is Matthew Oreans.

  Matthew was a tall man with copper-colored hair with blue and honey eyes wearing a black two-piece suit. He should not be older than Dustin.

- Lets go to what matters. If you agree to cooperate with us, we will give you a sum of two thousand euros each time we need you. If you have family, then you will be transferred to the capital, where we work.

- What are the risks?

- We are a biological improvement company, then we will use you and other volunteers for experiments. Thus, the more risk you can take is the death, as we will make changes in your DNA and your long-term anatomy. If you die we will pay compensation to your family and they will not receive any more. Anything that may happen to them shall have no responsibility.

  Dustin meditated on the subject, without saying a word.

- We have your records during the war. I would not worry about the fact die before their time. Take tonight to think and meet me tomorrow at this same place at three in the afternoon so I can take you to our company.

  Matthew walked to a black car that was parked and took his leave with a nod. Would it be a good idea to close a deal like that?

{ II. It's all Over

  Dustin looked for something that would help them in every home in the region, but as much as he could find was enough money to more one day. Even there is no one else in the city, things like water and electricity needed money. Despite not having to spend more on food, they could not gather enough for three passages. Still would need a long time to pass.

- Did you get anything?

- Cash only for another day.

- Well, it's better than nothing.

- Where is Chiara?

- Is sleeping. After all, there's nothing else to do.

  He sat next to Blair, feeling defeated.

- I know I promised to take care of Chiara, but how can I do this? I do not know what else to do for her.

- We can not give up, Dustin. We will find a solution.

  They looked at the money that Dustin had thrown on the floor. How much longer could they support like that?

- Let's get out of here.

- Where? When? How? Dustin, you're not thinking anymore!

- There must be a nearby town that has a better condition than ours.

- We can not risk in this way. We can not do Chiara walks kilometers in order not find anything.

  Dustin snorted. He hated to admit that Blair was with reason, but it was unbearable to see his sister suffering like that. Chiara did not deserve to go through all that. She did not deserve to carry these traumas.

- I'm leaving.

- Where are you going?

- I do not know. But I have to do something.

  He went out the door without waiting to hear what Blair had to say. Even with the cold wind injuring his skin, the boy was determined to find a solution so that at least his sister could live normally as before.

{ I. On my own

  Different from what they expected, the government was in more trouble than anticipated. That war had caused really serious harm and even cities that had structure to help were getting. Banks were breaking, and the country also. Some countries around managed to get up again, but it seems that they would have the same fate. Of course, after the war, no country would help and therefore they would have to do everything alone, which was not giving good results. Part of the population was suffering from abject poverty and starvation, but no country was willing to sell more food for them, as the New Union - a country in southeastern Europe and where Dustin lived - was no longer able to pay. The agriculture was running out, as the amount of debris and chemicals that were on the ground any food could develop.

  Blair and Dustin did not know what else to do. Even if they were getting some money here and there, which earned was not enough for anything. The money they had for three months was coming to an end and the townspeople were moving gradually to other countries. Unlike the others, they did not have enough money even for food, so they could not buy tickets to get out of that place. For them, what hurt most was to see Chiara growing among rubble, all alone and being forced to live in misery.

- We have nothing more to do here, Blair. We have to go.

- Dustin, we have no money even to sustain us, and the tickets are more expensive than before. The most we could do is to move to a nearby city that was in better condition, but there's no city habited nearby.

- Chiara does not deserve to live like this. We need a way. Are the ones who remain in this city, there should still be some money that we can find and save.

- Stealing is not an alternative.

- Blair, there is not a single person in this town besides us! What we found was not, somehow, considered stealing! Please, can we not have as much ethical as before knowing that there is an even weaker person than we are living in inhumane conditions.

  Blair did not want to admit that really needed to go from house to house combing through everything. Chiara had to have a bit of a normal life, even if it meant to take what did not belong to them.

- One of us have to take care of Chiara.

- I will, do not worry.

- Be careful. Remember that Chiara needs you.

{ It has Begun

 After the carnage of war, almost nothing remains in the city where Dustin Gates lived with his family. It happened about three months, when the whole world was involved in a war to decide who would have the most advanced technology for that generation.  He was able to return to home save after being a soldier, but did not find his family the same way: his parents were dead and his younger sister, Chiara, eleven, was not at home. The house was completely destroyed, only room still had some way because of the bombs and air attacks on innocent civilians.

- Chiara! Chiara! 

 The fatigue did not mean anything to him. The only thing that mattered was to find the girl who he vowed to protect at all costs. Dustin had no idea where to look for her, but could not give up.

- Dustin! 

  Two people waved to him not far away. The boy ran to listen to the voice of his sister, who ran to meet him for a hug. So fit into the tight embrace of her brother, Chiara began to shake and cry, something that did not dare to do in front of anyone else. He knelt and comforted the girl as best she could, but the reality was that even he was convinced of what he said. They were alone and would have to support themselves, but how they do this? It was clear that the country was in crisis and who did not have a job really have problems for a long time. The little money that remained could make them survive for a month, nothing more and nothing less, though he could not falter, not knowing Ithat he had a duty to take care of Chiara going forward.

- Dustin, you are not alone.

  Blair was there, reading his thoughts as she always did since they were children. Even with her help, he would have to take care of things alone and could no longer rely on anyone. After serving in the army, he came back a different person, determined to take on the responsibilities that come.

- Things are tough for all of us, Blair. I do not want you involved in this.

- I do not have anyone, Dustin. You know very well that my father died while serving in the war and now I have no one else. My house did not suffer much damage until things return to normal we can work something out with what we have. The money I have can help us for two months.

- I have to contribute another month.

- We will have three months to work it out on things. We are all helpless from now. The only solution is to grow all like family to our survival and, above all, for the good of Chiara.

⊱⊰ ＳＴＲＥＥＴ ＯＦ ＢＲＯＫＥＮ ＤＲＥＡＭＳ ⊱⊰

{all credits to the owner}

 "мαкιηg тнє ραѕт αη υηяєα¢нαвℓє ρℓα¢є"

║☓ Twenty Seventh Bloody Rose

- Valentine, I have no time to waste with you now.

- Yes you have. Your sister is with them, I'm sure they can work it out by themselves at all until you get. That is, if you can get to them.

  Blake growled. Why are things were being so hard for them? He promised to take the legacy of Richard and could not fail now with everyone. Especially with Achila, which should be in trouble at such an hour.

- He will not make it, Achila. We need to do this alone.

- What do we do then?

- I do not know ... But you need to rest.

- I will not rest while you are here. I'm staying in this war to the end, even if I end up dead.

- That's crazy. Your body is not strong enough to keep this war any longer.

- We should let the soldiers resting. I take care of them.

- You will not take care of everything alone.

- The soldiers are more important than my fatigue. I can still fight.

  Liam hesitated, bcause of the insistence of Achila he ordered the soldiers to rest on the inside as he, Michaelis and Roland helped the girl to contain the invasion.

- You still think you can win in these conditions? Accept the fact that all your promises will not be realized!

  Blake had not opotunity to attack because of the speed and aggressiveness of Valentine. Kneeling on the floor, he did not know what direction should take. Should he give up and be killed? Should surrender? No, he could not let them down. As a leader, he would have to find a way to turn things around. For Richard.For  Achila. For all those who were fighting for him now. For himself. Yes, so far it has been moving for others, but what about himself? Blake wanted to live and win. He wanted to show himself that he did not need help, he could take care of everything by himself.

  Valentine stopped attacking. That energy. Yes, that boy was finally ready to take the true shape him as a vampire. He was getting up slowly while the changes took place. His blue eyes were disappearing and becoming gray, thinning remnant of the human past into him. Now would be the same.

- This war is going to end now.

- Finally I will have the chance to challenge your true form.

  The ferocity of Blake increased, making it equivalent to Valentine. Both went from one side to the other crossing blades with incredible speed. The boy forced the spear against the sword as hard as he could.

  Valentine smiled. It was exactly that strength he had been waiting all this time. He did not care to see his sword being cracked, the only thing that mattered at that moment was to test the limits of the boy.

  The archer's sword broke, along with the launches of the boy.

- I'm proud of your strength. I'm sure Richard would also be to leave his clan in such good hands.

- What is going on?

  Valentine took a folded paper from inside his jacket and handed it to Blake.

"Valentine,

  You're the only person I can trust this favor. What I will ask you now not even Liam knows or can do. Even in an opposite side to ours, I ask you to test the limits of my youngest general after my death. If he prove able to take care of everything, divide the conquered lands with him, otherwise, you have my full consent to kill him. I know that together you can govern and improve the situation of our whole race. I know you still hold a grudge this old father for not taking care of you as you needed, but I believe in your insight and your judgement.

  I am proud to entrust it to you.

Richard Grey. "

- Is this a joke?

- Of course not.

- Then why did you kill your own father?

- I was still at war with him. Even Richard being my father I could not save him. During this whole time I've been really serious with respect to kill everyone and rule all the lands of the domain, including you. I really would not hesitate to kill you.

  Blake swallowed. He knew that Valentine was not kidding.

- I have to go back. Achila needs me.

- I imagine that half of my army is dead at this hour.

- Lower your weapons!

 The Valentine soldiers bowed as soon as they saw him.

- Blake!

 Achila ran toward him with the gun pointed at Valentine.

- Achila, it's okay. Valentine will not do anything.

- What is going on?

  Liam approached Valentine and gave the letter, so they could read.

- So we end up with this war?

- Yes. We'll share the land equally and work together. Starting today, we are in charge of building a new era for our race.

- I Never thought I'd see Blake assuming leadership someday.

- While we're all together I will do this untill the end.

║☓ Twenty Sixth Bloody Rose

- I've been waiting a long time for it. - Valentine smiled with an incomparable joy - finally I met someone close to my level. Lycaon, prepare the archers and other troops, we will have visits soon.

  The archer waited patiently for the arrival of the small clan that was still willing to play with him. Although they are almost insignificant compared to the other clans, this was giving more work than the others.

- Blake, we divide here. Good luck and be careful.

- You too.

  While Liam and the soldiers took the front line to attack the soldiers, Blake climbed trees to get into again on Valentine's house, which apparently had no one.

  The boy managed to rebut an arrow of silver that was about to hit him.

- Apparently you rested well. Your senses are back in action.

- Let's get this over with.

- Where is your sister?

- Far away from your hands.

- Let's see for how long.

  Valentine smiled again and put the bow to draw his sword. He came down the wall and attacked Blake with a sword. Even with the spear, the boy could hardly protect himself.

- Michaelis, an enemy movement?

- Nothing for now. However I believe it will not be long before an attack happens.

- Let's wait.

- What's going on here?

  They had fewer soldiers than Liam expected and it made him puzzled. After all, Abel's army was also under the command of Valentine and so it should be an even bigger problem.

- Sir Liam, I believe that there is no soldier here.

- This means that Achila will have problems.

- Should we go to help her?

- Let's wait. She said that if she needed you she would send a signal.

  An arrow indicated the beginning of the invasion of their territory.

- It seems that came faster than we expected.

- Let's welcome for them.

  Achila stood on the windowsill with fully charged and polished weapons. In less than two minutes half the soldiers had fallen.

- Now is the time for you to go, I got here.

  Roland nodded and Michaelis and each took half of the soldiers who were there for the battlefield. However, a time came more soldiers. Surely Valentine is unprotected at this hour, she thought as she freed the crow Richard with a ticket to Liam. Even with the soldiers and the weapons they, they could not account for eliminating all those troops at once, as the army of the enemy was greater in number than theirs.

- What happened? Did you not rest enough? Or you are too preoccupied with your sister to pay attention to what's going on here?

- Shut up.

  Blake's wounds were open again, that was the reason for his concern. The armor was becoming heavy and the helmet it was already far away. It was true that Valentine had suffered damage, but he was faster and had greater abilities with ranged weapons. If Achila was there ... No, he could not rely on his sister forever. He promised that take care and come back to life and the victory in hand.

- You're too distracted. Remember that your sister is not here for you drink her blood again.

  Blake knew he could not be moved by anger, though he would not remember having taken the blood of her sister.

- Blake, you do not know how much power is within you, is not it? The blood of your sister can make all your awakening force, but you are still not mature enough for that. Your power now does not reach a tenth of its total capacity, so you're that way.

  It was true that after taking the blood of Achila he felt different, but even then he did not know why. Still, he should forget all this in order to win, after all he had promised it to all those who were with him forever.

- Liam, they do not stop more than show up, what do we do?

- We have to find a way for ourselves, Blake can not come to help us. He promised us victory and we must do everything possible to help him with this.

  A portion of their soldiers were killed and some were too tired to keep fighting. All Achila ammunition were over three times and yet the enemy was in greater numbers. Even with Liam strategies the amount they eliminated the enemy was almost negligible.

- We will not be able to realize all this. We need Blake here.

- Achila, we can not bother him.

- We promise to help each other. Valentine can be defeated later, but now we need to keep our lands.

  She sent the same crow to Blake.

- Well well. It seems that your army is being crushed, right? What a waste.

- They need me.

  Before Blake could leave, Valentine banned his passage.

- You will not give your back to me. If you want to help your subordinates first you will have to kill me.

║☓ Twenty Fifth Bloody Rose

- Blake!

  Liam had finally found them. Blake sat on the floor with Achila in the arms, which had regained some consciousness and was trying to wake up.

- Blake!

  The boy looked toward him and tried to smile to be alive, but he was still too preoccupied with Achila to achieve smile completely.

- Are you okay?

- When Achila wake up I can tell it.

- I apologize for not finding them before, sir.

- This time I let you go, but if there is another failure like this I will not hesitate to kill all of you. I'm not about to waste my time with soldiers who do not do what I command quickly.

- Yes, that will not be repeated.

- When Blake Allucard come, not prevent; let him come to me.

- Blake, are you sure about that?

- Yes. I'll take Achila home and come to end this war. I can not just bow to Valentine and doing nothing. Richard entrusted the victory of our clan to us, right?

  Liam nodded.

- Well, then we will bring the victory anyway.

  Blake carried Achila in the arms back home and laid her in bed under the care of the remaining soldiers, who were under the Michaelis and Roland command.

- Do not let her leave here for anything. She has no strength even to stand up.

- Yes sir.

- We wish luck in battle.

  For more proud that he had the determination to Blake, Liam was worried about his health. Even with human blood in his veins, the boy was still weakened by the injuries made with the boom, which had not completely healed.

- Blake, wait a minute.

- What happened?

- You will not fight in these conditions.

- Liam, we have no time to waste on this. I am fine.

- No, you are not. The fatigue is visible on you and injuries as well. You spear is needing to be sharp and clean, and the equipment must be restored and polished. We all need at least the rest of the day to rest and feed to face Valentine.

- Anything else? - Blake was determined to go fight anyway, even if he had to go it alone.

- Yes. It's about to dawn. Unless you have resistance to the sun, I suggest you take the time to rest.

- You always have arguments, right?

- Of course. - Liam smiled confidently - This is my work as a counselor.

  After feeding and bathing to exchange armor with lighter clothes, Blake went to the bedroom where crossed with Achila at the door, carrying a tray in hands with bandages and a mixture of herbs to enhance the healing of wounds caused by the arrows .

- What are you doing roaming around? You are weak and need to rest.

- I'll tell you the same. There are wounds did not heal and may be worse than they are. Let me handle this.

  Blake's wounds were deep and every time she put cotton with a blend of herbs he complained because of the pain.

- And you still wanted to fight like that?

- You sound like Dad.

  Achila gave a half smile.

- We have to take care of each other, after all no one else left.

- I have something to ask you.

- What is it?

- Do not go with me to face Valentine.

- It's ok.

- What happened to you? I expected you would say no.

- Michaelis told me he needed me to take care of here while you and Liam went into battle. They are hoping that Valentine send troops to take over our land thinking that there will be no one to protect these lands. Also, if he wants to kill us both, we can not be together. You will while I take care of things here.

  Blake nodded, glad I did not get into an argument with her.

- However, do not hesitate to ask for my help on the battlefield if needed.

- I will not. The same for you.

║☓ Twenty Fourth Bloody Rose

- What have you done? The person who almost lost the life to save her ends up becoming a slave to the headquarters? Poor thing.

- This is happening because of you, Valentine.

- Let's not start with the blame game, okay?

- I have nothing to deal with you.

  Blake kept walking with Achila in his arms, still unconscious to a silver arrow go whizzing by his head.

- No one retires until I command. Thank that I did wrong your head on purpose.

- Valentine, you wanted the land, right? All right, stay with them. Dominate the entire province and leave us alone.

- I do not just want the land, but take your lives. This war will end only when the last general fall before me. While you and your sister are alive, your army will have a reason to fight and that's a problem. - He looked away for Achila - But I think I can just worry about you, Achila is almost dead.

 The boy growled, trying not to give in to Valentine's teasers, however he knew the weaknesses of Blake and used it against him without mercy. Unlike Abel, that Archer knew how to weaken the enemy with words, using force only as a last resort.

- I hope this is growl to yourself, boy. If she dies, the blame will be entirely yours. It's really a big loss, this girl had so many skills that would be useful for me. Because of you I lost the best war machine that I could have. It was worth more than all my army.

  Blake threw the spear towards Valentine, overcome with anger and resentment.

- No one has the right to speak his way about her.

- I expected that. - Even after being wounded by the spear, Valentine was still on the tree branch taking the drops of his own blood - Richard may have turned you into a skilled vampire, but you are weak.

- Shut up.

- I'm just telling the truth. You're stuck with deadly feelings that are leading you to the bottom slowly. I hate to admit it, but you might be able to face myself if you had become a complete vampire. Blake, you're nothing but a worm while staying attached to the past and to your sister.

- You do not know what happened to us to say such a thing! You're nothing but a murderer. Nearly half of the human remaining at the beginning of this era were killed to quench your thirst. You have sent skills because you passes over the feelings of lost and terrified humans.

- And yet I got the power. I don't mind about the human's feelings, not even the last of each. All this is synonymous with weakness and you have an example in your arms. Achila lived to this day thinking about the past and feelings that blinded what was happening around. She is almost dead now because the love she has for you blinded her and now will have to pay with her live. The same is happening to you.

  Valentine pointed an arrow at them and tossed precisely in Achila. However, it was not her blood that dyed grass, but the Blake's blood.

- Can you see what you have become after meeting her again? Before this you were cold and had no feelings for anyone. You would never been hurt to protect someone and now you are ready to die for her.

- I know that. However, she is the only person I have left in this world; I prefer to die than see her suffer this way.

  The archer laughed with speech typically human from Blake.

- Achila loves you, Blake. Do you really think that your death will bring an end to her suffering? You are wrong. This will increase her wounds. What you are thinking is so limited by your old human part that you can not see the meaning of your own words. If you wanted to put an end to her suffering, you should be ready to fight and live and not to fight and die.

  Blake looked at Achila in his arms. For the first time Valentine was right in that whole discussion. What he has done so far only wounded his sister even more and was the cause of all this misery.
- Why did you come here to tell me that?
- Because I want to kill you when you're strong enough to fight me.

║☓ Twenty Third Bloody Rose

- Blake! Blake!

  The boy knelt on the ground, without any strength to get up. Achila could see the pallor on his face. His lips were almost transparent and his hands were shaking. He panted, trying oxygen and his eyes, which were as blue as the most serene sea, were taking a scarlet tone, but not like the eyes of Valentine. That scarlet of Blake's eyes showed the deepest and most desperate thirst that he could feel.

 Achila down the collar of her overcoat.

- I can not do anything for you right now.

- Achila, I will never do that. I'd rather die by touching a drop of your blood.

  He gently touched the neck of his sister and lifted the collar of her coat. As much as the seat she tried to take her blood, Blake knew it was not what he wanted.

- Then I'll look for something for you.

  She left before hearing any complaint from her brother and returned shortly after with a fox in her hands. Blake drank every last drop of the blood of the animal, feeling that it was still too little. His body demanded human blood, but he refused to hurt his sister for that. He would have to be content with that fox and some other animal he could find along the way.

- I'm fine now. Come on.

- No, you are not. Blake, please admit that you need human blood.

- You promised you would never give a single drop of blood to a vampire, I can not do that.

- I broke all the promises I made when I entered this war for you. I do not care longer maintain the honor of Allucard but save your life. Blake, you are the only person I have in this world.

  Blake swallowed. His throat burned and the thirst for human blood consumed increasingly, especially in the face of Achila disposal.

- Lord, we can not find Blake's blood trail.

- We have to keep looking. Mr. Valentine will be furious with us if we do not find them.

  At the same time that Lycaon and the soldiers looked for the tracks, Liam passed them with incredibly determined speed, with soldiers in pursuit.

- We have nothing to lose. Go after them, so we will certainly find our target.

 Blake's canines were crying as well as its owner. As much as he needed human blood, the last thing he wanted to do in his life was to drink the blood of the only sister he had.

- I'm sorry for doing this to you.

- You are this way because of me, who should be sorry it's me. Because of me you was kidnapped when you were a child, became a vampire and was almost dead now because I did not have competence to free myself from the chains and not to avoid being hit by that stupid arrow. All my blood can not pay all your suffering till today.

 He stopped losing blood and some of the cuts and scrapes he had been healed.

 The rough tongue of Blake indicated that it was all over. The Achila neck brands wasn't bleeding anymore, however it was weaker than before.

- Glad to see you're better.

- I can not say the same of you. I'm really sorry.

  Blake carried her in his arms for the rest of the way, as she had no strength to walk. Her breathing became deeper and more regular, indicating that Achila had given to fatigue due to the blood loss.

- Liam, there's traces of blood anywhere. At the end we were able to detect not only the blood of the general Blake, but also a few drops of blood from Miss Achila.

  Liam followed the soldier to the end of the blood path and began tracking the area carefully to see brands steps on the grass, which were in a newer way. He sought smell beyond the eucalyptus and managed to capture the smell of both brothers.

- Come on. We need to reach them before something worse happens to them.

- What do you mean, sir?

- Surely Blake took the blood of his sister. Let's hope she's still alive.

║☓ Twenty Second Bloody Rose

- Lord, what do we do?

- Is there the presence of any enemy unit?

- No sir.

- I want a third of the soldiers on the outside immediately. We will find the two before it's too late.

  Liam and the soldiers went to the limits of the land where Blake had followed.

- Sir, there is a trail of blood right there.

- That smell ... Do not lose this track, we must find them as quickly as possible!

  Blake's trail led him to the home of Valentine, whose soldiers were walking from one side to the other. Some with swords, others with spears, others with bows prepared to shoot.

  However, there was a man who was without armor and walked on the walls of the main gates without fear of being hit by an enemy. He wore black and red leather and black hair covering her face, which was turned down. In the hands, which were covered with black leather gloves, he carried a bow and several arrows made entirely of silver.

- Lord, I do not think it's safe to approach.

- You stay here. There's something about this man that bothers me.

  Liam stepped out from behind the trees, with their swords drawn.

- I did not think you would come without a general. I admire your courage and regret the loss of Richard.

- No one beyond we know the death of Richard. How do you know that? Furthermore, how do you know we're out of our general?

  Valentine laughed and opened his eyes slowly to face Liam.

- It was I who drew the plan for the death of Richard and who planned the kidnapping of Achila Allucard to attract general of you guys. - He bowed slightly - My name is Valentine.

  Liam just remembered the man in which Achila had spoken. He swallowed quietly, wondering what could have happened to the brothers.

- I really wanted to play with you, but I have other plans in mind. General of you are almost dead, not worth continuing this fight. You lost this war whether you like it or not.

- We will not surrender to obey someone like you.

- This war is almost over. Abel is not even in this world to compete for land with me. No clan is willing to face me.

  Liam clenched his jaw. The Valentine's tone was coldly calm and somewhat arrogant. However, knowing the skills that only he has in every province, it was justified the fact clan to rise against him. The former adviser did not want to admit it, but Valentine had strength, speed and intelligence completely above them. In addition, resistance to sun was what was to be feared, because while the others slept, he could cause further damage without being seen.

- What happened? I have no time to waste with insects like you.

- I want to know what you did with the Allucard brothers.

- They ran away from me, I have no idea of where they will be at this hour. The only thing I can guarantee you is that the general of you is one step to join Richard.

  Valentine calmly watched the removal of Richard clan soldiers as they searched for a new trail brothers. For him, it was just a comedy, since he would not be harmed by anyone. However, what would be the reaction of those stupid soldiers when they saw the two dead brothers? Certainly it would be worth it.

- Lycaon, unite your troops and follow the trail of Allucard brothers. Bring them here, preferably alive.

- Immediately.

- Blake, please hold on, we will not take long to get to the castle.

- I ... do not know how much more I can walk.

  Blake had no more strength to support the boom and keep moving. Even getting the support of Achila, he lost more and more blood by the way, what was causing the decline of his senses, especially vision. If he continued struggling, soon I could not even see the face of his sister, who was beside him.

║☓ Twenty First Bloody Rose

  The Achila's eyes widened for a moment to look forward. A few drops of blood ran down from the Valentine's right hand while he was holding a small dagger made of silver.

- Abel - the voice of Valentine was not exactly calm - I told you to take care of what was happening outside, did not I?

- I could not just let you have fun with them. Our deal was that I would kill them, remember?

- You would kill them only if all the orders I gave you were done, but they were not.

  Abel gritted his teeth to hold back a growl, but this expression has not gone unnoticed by the other.

- Get out of here immediately. This is an order.

- You're nobody to give me orders, Valentine! The only reason I have accepted everything that you planned and said till today was because I saw in you an admirable example of intelligence I've ever seen. However, no one gives me orders!

- If so, then I must tell you that you are no longer useful to me. A puppet who does not obey is nothing more nothing less a problem.

  Achila and Blake looked at each other. Valentine apparently had lost interest in them at the time to punish Abel.

- Valentine, what are you thinking? We have an alliance, you can not in any way point a gun at me.

- I do not have any kind of alliance with you from now on.

- Valentine, you're rushing.

- No, I'm not. There are times I'm waiting to say this and finally this day has come: die, Abel.

  Valentine prepared two arrows to pierce the white armor of Abel. This, in turn, was paralyzed by the indifference with which the noble archer had broken the alliance and was now ready to kill him.

  In this moment of distraction, Valentine did not hesitate to shoot the arrows. Abel was able to use the sword to protect himself, but did not pay attention to the movements of his former ally, who had made a subtle nod to an archer who were on the wall.

  The white armor of Abel began to be dyed red, and the hall floor. He panted, leaning on his sword as he tried to regain his balance. The pain he felt was great in order to make him lose part of his senses.

- That's really pathetic. - Valentine looked at Abel with contempt while preparing an arrow made entirely of silver - Die, naughty puppet.

  Abel fell dead in his own pool of blood, with the silver arrow pierced into his head. Soon, his body turned into ashes and to mix the blood, making Valentine feel sick.

- I want that someone will get the blood of this damn of my way right now. This makes me sick.

  Valentine heard hurried footsteps in the hallway to his left. Of course, the brothers take advantage this chance to escape. He saw the trail of blood belonging to Blake Allucard and chains that bound the girl were all broken.

- Lord, will we go takethem back?

- Let them. In the state in which the boy is the most they can do is get to the gates. If she wants him to stay alive, then both will have to go back - he looked at the soldier - No, I do not need more of them, this war is already won for me. Do you know what I mean?

- Yes sir.

✗ Happy Halloween ✘

®to the owner of the pic

║☓ Twenth Bloody Rose

  Valentine shook his head in negative as the smell of blood came to his sharp nostrils.

- I really admire the persistence of your brother to get through Abel and get here in the state he is in.

- What do you know him? You will pay dearly when I be free!

- That's true, you can not feel smell of blood at long distances. So I anticipate you that his situation is extremely precarious, I'll be surprised if he can follow your scent here, after all he is losing so much blood that his nose should no longer be able to capture other than the smell of his own blood.

- Blake ...

  He captured the concern and sadness girl.

- You still want to sacrifice your brother in this war? Achila, we have much more power than them, especially now that Richard is no longer with them.

- This is your fault.

- All is fair in war, you have to get used to it. However his interest is not in Richard, but in saving you from us.

- Valentine, please leave that clan alone. You have the power to end this war now.

- Yes I have. But I can not do this without receiving anything in return.

- What can you gain by killing them? They do nothing against no one, they have always lived of fighters who have within the limits of their land! Valentine, leave them alone, I'm begging you. Blake does not deserve to suffer more, he did not even want to be their leader for this war.

- Achila, you have not realized that he's putting his own life to lose because of you? He does not care about the war against his clan, but what we do with you here. As Abel kidnapped him and you came to save him, he wants to do the same, however this is part of my plans.

 Even bloodied and partly weak, Blake sniffed the air and followed the sister of tracks supported on the boom. Apparently the soldiers who should take care of the castle should be outside, because not found anyone so far. The smell of the person who was with Achila had disappeared, giving opportunity for him to come and save her.

- Blake ... Idiot! Why did you come here?

- I would not forgive me if you ended up being killed by them.

 Blake was cutting the chains to free his sister, but again felt something piercing his flesh with a sharp, excruciating pain. Hands-free, but the chained ankles, Achila knelt beside her brother trying to take the arrow that was on his back. Even with the armor, that arrow was extremely sharp, as if it had been made to drill resistant objects.

- When can I see my arrows worked well.

  The boy was even more tormented by the pain and be losing more blood, however, as could heal the wound left hand, at least could use both hands to fight.

- Lower your spear, boy. I do not plan to kill you now.

- Your problem is with the clan of Richard, let my sister out of it.

- Unfortunately I can not, unless she decides to accept my offer. What do you say, Achila? Will you let your brother suffering continues as it is now? Wasn't you who wanted to protect him above any cost after what happened to your family?

- Achila, whatever he has proposed, is not worth it. You do not trust vampires, remember? How can you believe that he will fulfill what he promised? We will find a way to get out of here together and I will not go back without you, this was the promise I made to myself and to Liam.

  Valentine evaluated the expression of Achila carefully. It was apparent that she was giving in to her brother's arguments, though he did not care about that. Part of her was tempted to accept his proposal whenever a Blake's blood drop fell on the white hall floor.

- Blake - her voice was hoarse - I have seen the blood of our parents being spilled on a white floor like this and do not want to see your blood being shed in the same way. I do not want to lose you to them as well.

- I do not want to lose you to them. Achila, I will not return alone, no matter what Liam or what the other soldiers will think of me. - He lowered his head - the blame is all mine you're here. You always took care of me and protected me and I was not able to do anything for you today. The arrows that hit me were insignificant compared to how much you had suffered alone trying to find me.

  The vampire of scarlet eyes was feeling the bitter taste of bile by witness all that, though the doubt in Achila's face was what kept him there, patiently waiting for the outcome of that fraternal sentiment.

║☓ Nineteenth Bloody Rose

- Finally you woke up. I think I overdid the dose of poison in that arrow.

  The Achila's vision focused on the face that was close to her. Because of the poison of the arrow who had shot her, the girl was not yet able to fully recognize the forms and persons, unless they concentrate too much into it.

- What happened? Do you not recognize me anymore?

  That voice. There was not much time she'd heard that voice. In addition, the shape and physique of the man also were familiar to her. Achila squinted to get a better view and was able to locate a pair of red eyes like blood.

- Valentine, what are you doing here? Why can not I move? Where are my guns? Valentine, answer!

- Be calm, my little huntress. Your weapons are with me to guarantee that you will be a good girl and that's why I held you on this wall. I'm really sorry for that, but I can not risk it.

- What did you do with Blake? I want to see my brother now!

- He's coming for you, do not rush. Abel is taking care of everything.

- Abel?

- Yes, the Belgian that you know.

- Are you together?

- We have an alliance till the Blake's clan disappear altogether.

- So why do we never hear about you?

- I prefer to work in the shadows and anonymous. Abel enjoys being in the spotlight more than anyone else, so I decided to keep my existence a secret and leave you worrying about someone who does not even come close to being a threat. - Valentine laughed - I do not know how can you fear someone so childish and impulsive like him, Abel is extremely predictable and can be defeated at any time. All the more brilliant strategies, such as the murder of Richard, were my ideas.

- Bastard.

- Why so much hate? You do not like vampires, I'm amazed to see those eyes so beautiful overflowing rage.

- If my hands were not tied, certainly I would kill you for it.

- It would be very unfortunate, but I'd be happy to die at your hands. I have a proposition for you, so we can end this war once and for all against the clan of your brother.

  She was silent, waiting to hear what kind of nonsense would come out of his mouth.

- Become my wife and I can protect the clan and the land of your brother.

- I'd rather be dead right now.

- I'll let you think about it for now. You may need to get a little time alone and listen to what happens around.

- I will not change my mind.

- I'm a patient man, I'm in no hurry to hear your answer. I know you want to protect your brother this war, but your pride will not let you say yes to my proposal.

  Even with his injured leg, Blake ran as fast as he could until see the Abel home among some trees. He slowed so smelled of enemy soldiers and the Belgian himself, who should be waiting for him. The height of the trees, the boy thought he would not be seen if he spent with caution until he can get. As hopped from branch to branch, Blake felt his leg hurt and I could smell his own blood. That was too bad, he thought, but he was halfway and he had promised himself he would not return without Achila.

  The wind blew toward him, carrying the smell of blood to the nose of the enemy who were waiting for him. However, they could not be sure of his exact location, because the trees were too close together to let any apparent clue.

  The branches that were in front of him were cut in a snap, causing Blake to jump on them to no damage. However, as it became visible, several arrows were thrown at him, one of which hit his left hand. The boy fell to his knees a few meters from Abel.

- Well, well, well, what do have we here? The general leader without any army? This is a dangerous maneuver, my boy, after all you have a clan to protect.

- I'm not leaving without my sister.

- I imagine that Valentine has plans for her, do not worry about it. Go home and take care of this wounds.

- Shut your filthy mouth! What have you done with Achila?

- Try to go through me to discover,  general Allucard.

  Blake could not rely firmly on the right leg, which was still bleeding and aching unbearably and now his left hand was in the same situation. However, he could still move with some speed to go without wasting time on Abel.

- You're afraid to move forward? I will do it for you then.

  Abel was with the sword pointed at him as he hurriedly ran with a cloud of arrows behind him to reach Blake. Even wounded, the boy managed to make a cut on the right hand of the enemy and disarm him before being hit by arrows. The gates were closed and he leaned on a tree branch to jump over the wall of the castle. He sniffed the air and he did not capture only the smell of his sister, but the smell of another person he did not even know.

║☓ Eighteenth Bloody Rose

  Richard's ashes were blown away in the main lobby. The only thing they had left now was wait for enemy movement, which certainly does not take much to happen. Blake still could not believe what was happening to him and, even with the aid of Achila, he was not sure what to do. The leadership was something he never wanted and now that did not know where to go, what to say, what to do.
- This will all end, Blake, do not have to stay that way.
- Achila, you do not know how I'm feeling. I can not believe all this is happening to me of a sudden.
- You are not alone, we are all together. I said I would be at your side, and I will do my best to help you win.
  It seemed that something was going on downstairs, since they could hear sounds of guns and people walking from one side to the other.
- My lord! The Northern soldiers returned, and it seems that their leader is also here!
- We have no time to lose, come on!
- What about me?
- You come too, they do not know that you are the leader and we need your skills on the battlefield along with your sister. Some soldiers and a general will be here to take care of the castle.

  Blake was not feeling fully comfortable at first with that armor, but the course of the battle he would adapts with it soon. Abel was there, dressed in white and silver armor he always wore, piercing everyone with his sword and without taking his eyes off Blake and Achila, which together had brought down more than half of his soldiers.
- Beautiful armor, it's a shame that it will not protect you for a long time.
  Blake nearly had his left shoulder pierced but a Achila shot made Abel's sword flew away.
- You want to play, little girl? - He smiled predatorily - So let's play.
- So come, but it's a shame that so shining armor is not shielded.
  Both were removed from the battlefield, and Blake did not know what to do. There were still enemies around and he could not abandon them to help her sister.
- Go help her, Blake. We can take care of these here.
  He nodded and used all the speed he could to reach Achila, diverting the Abel seeming exhaustion attacks. Blake threw the spear at them, and narrowly missed Abel.
- You too? So not funny. Two against one is not exactly something fair, even though I'm stronger than you two together.
- Coward.
- Let him go, Achila. You look tired.
- I'm fine, do not ...
  Blake did not know where they had shot that arrow, but he knew he had to take it to Liam because only he would know what to do.
- You will not get away with it.
  The boy hurried the best I could, but the arrows of the soldiers made him lose the balance from time to time and he felt even more worried. The castle was still distant and, as much as he used all his speed, the archers do not lose sight for any instant. The breathing of Achila was getting weaker and it made him anxious.
  One of the arrows hit his right leg, causing him to fall and giving opportunity for soldiers carry the body of the girl to the border, just as they did with him the first time they faced each other.
- Blake, where are you going? You will do exactly what he wants!
- I don't care about what he wants, my sister is more important. I never forgive myself if she dies.
- Blake, you are no longer just a general, get back here! Blake!
- I will not go back without Achila!
  Blake took the spear and ran as fast as he could not to lose sight of the archers.

- He is falling into our trap.
- Abel, you know what to do now.
- Yes. Come on, everybody! We have to do better welcoming committee we can.