The Past & the Present (Completed)

Chapter Nine: Searching

Amazingly the village isn't wary. If anything they revere mother Miranda even more. To keep myself safe when I got into the village I wear robes and a gold sash similar to hers. It makes her happy so as long as I hide it from mother, my disguise is foolproof.

Wandering around through rough terrain in long robes, however, is not sneaky and is absolutely not suitable hiking attire. With everything covered in snow so following tracks is easier to do, given they aren't a mountain goat or the occasional predator.

A commotion and lycans howling draws my attention. I know it's a race against time to get there before they do. They're such fantastic climbers and runners.

By the time I arrive I'm too late, but two of the lycans are dead and another is limping. They know better than to attack me, I've long since asserted my dominance. Granted if they're in a bloodlust rage they'll attack anything.

When I get closer the wounds are very clear. Bullet holes. Someone around here has a gun. From the looks of things something automatic which rules out the villagers.

Out of fear I run back to the house. Only once I see the maids are undisturbed and everyone is safe am I able to fully breathe again. The maw is still closing over. The bones have begun to fuse as they form a crooked ribcage again. Miranda has told me to be careful.

"Iulia."

I stop.

"Close the door."

Aware of my sister's apprehension regarding the cold I'm trying, but a steady wind combined with the weight makes that a slow process. Mother closes it with one hand.

"Where have you been?"

"Just out walking."

"You've been spending an exorbitant amount of time outside lately. I'm worried about you. After your sisters found you in that storm and the way your eyes have been failing and your memory is degrading," Mother states.

It was foolish of me to think mother wouldn't notice me running into walls or mistaking my utensils at the dinner table. Along with the mind fog my vision has been getting gradually worse. With three of my canine teeth out and slowly being replaced by fangs I also look a right mess.

"I'm fine mother, really. I've just been having nightmares. I think they're my sister's memories of fighting Ethan. Being outside makes me feel better. I'm farther away from them and I can see easier."

Like always mother pets my head and kneels down to cup my face. She sighs, "I'm sorry, but I will not risk losing you. You're staying here."

"I promised uncle Salvatore I would watch a movie with him."

"How convenient you bring that up only now."

I pout my lip, "Please? Bela even made some fresh bread to take with me."

Mother smirks, "Trying to poison him are you?"

"Mother!"

"I'm joking, I'm joking. I'm not keen on your sisters and their cooking. Take the bread to him but you must come back. The movie will wait," Mother says.

Standing on my tiptoes mother has to stoop down even further so I can kiss her cheek, "Thank you mother. I'll be quick I promise."