Crimson Tears: A Werewolf's Dirge (Book 2)

Chapter VI: Pride & Prejudice

Hallowed Dream Haven

"So, the two of you are wanting to get married three weeks from now in the neutral area?" Asks Elizabeth.

"That's correct." Replies Jerick.

"I see you have fresh wounds, does that mean what I think it does?" Asks Elizabeth with curiosity.

"I want her to be protected at all costs." Replies Jerick.

"She'll be under the best of care, you have my word as an alpha and as your sister." States Elizabeth.

"Another question?" Asks Jerick suddenly.

"What is it?" Replies Elizabeth.

"Why is it you're willing to help us?" Asks Jerick.

"Our family has been known for breaking the rules. I for one abide by them to a point, but I don't agree with all of them. Did you know our aunt had a child with a werewolf?" Replies Elizabeth.

"So, we're known for this kind of behavior?" Asks Jerick.

"Yes. That's why I'm not on the council. Magus' sister was Nora's second aunt. So, more and more of us are beginning to break the rules causing an uproar in both societies." Replies Elizabeth.

"In other words, if the current government can't maintain the taboo's from occurring, then the current system will fail and a new one will need to be built in its place." States Jerick.

"Exactly." Replies Elizabeth.

"So, your goal is to cause the collapse and bring forth that exact change?" Asks Jerick.

Looking at her ring, Elizabeth says "I have my pride as a wolf, but the prejudice we face, like Kayle and yourself, is not fair. I want to see our species together instead of fearing when one of our own is taken from us due to whom we love. You can say human morals on that matter are what influenced me."

"There's nothing wrong with that, and I have to agree." Replies Jerick.

"You marked her too, haven't you?" Asks Elizabeth.

With his eyes turning Sapphire blue, Jerick says "Not intentionally. I can still taste her blood in my mouth."

"That explains why her marks haven't healed yet." Mutters Elizabeth.

"Excuse me?" Asks Jerick.

With a devilish grin, Elizabeth starts to say "For us to be bitten by a vampire, the wounds usually heal within a few hours, unless...!"

Looking away from his sister, Jerick states "She's going to go see a doctor before the wedding."

"You plan on facing both councils on your own, leaving behind your own wife and unborn child?" Asks Elizabeth curtly.

"I will if that assures the survival of my family." Replies Jerick through clenched teeth.

With a heavy sigh, Elizabeth says "I'll see to it that you get the help you need. We have one of the largest havens, and most of the surrounding havens have relatives here."

Bursting through the door, Castella inquires "My lady, I have bad news!"

"Jerick, you need to get home now! I don't have the time to explain!" States Elizabeth sharply.

Jerick takes his leave as Castella tells Elizabeth the news of the two council's decisions. Jerick catches some of what is said and hurries home. Not caring or worried about who sees him, Jerick changes into his wolf state just as he hits the woods in the direction of his home. With his heart racing, he can hear his heart pounding in his ears. Not noticing at first, but there were three other wolves following right behind him as escorts.