Prince of Darkness

Chapter 13

Vincent smirked darkly as he watched the advancing vampire hunters from the window. It had been a while since he had experienced full battle. It would be a good opportunity to...practice.

Slipping silently through the halls he searched for Adam. As easy as it would be for the Halfling to take on the small group on his own, he felt the need to alert the prince. But he had better not make him stay back! He knew how much he enjoyed a good fight!

***************

Adam's mind was far from any worries. He was entirely focused on the beauty before him. He had escorted Rose to the empty library, where they had begun to talk more.

He gazed at the young woman, watching has her hair, loose from any bonds, brushed against her shoulders. She was an angel from heaven, he was sure. Looking into her eyes gave him hope. Hope that he could finally have happiness. It felt unreal, the way that she had grown so close to him.

Rose smiled softly as she met the werewolf's eyes. She couldn't explain it, but she felt...safe. Safer then she had felt in a long time. His expression was soft and caring. Rose refused to flinch at the sight of his wolfish form. There was no need to fear him.

There were a few moments of silence before Adam asked. "Rose...are you...happy, here with me?"

Taken aback by his question, she blinked. "Y-Yes," she answered.

Hearing the unsureness in her voice, the werewolf questioned, "What am I doing wrong?"

"Oh, nothing. I was just a little shocked," she replied.

Adam sighed, calming his nerves. Moving closer, he started, "Rose, I'm so relieved that..." he stilled. His ears twitched at the familiar sound, before the werewolf growled, "Vincent! What do you want?" he snapped.

The Halfling replied, only just entering the room. "Werewolf hunters."

Adam snarled, "I see. Gather Charles and Anastasia. You three will attack before I arrive to finish them off."

Vincent nodded, before heading for the door. His fingers already tingled with the knowledge that his fire magic would be used in excess that night. He grinned sadistically at the idea, his excitement rising.

The werewolf called before he could leave, "I need you to use your...gifts to keep Rose here."

The Halfling turned, "Of course," he responded.

Rose found herself leaning away as Vincent approached. "No!" she argued firmly. "I want to help you."

Vincent sat beside her, softly cupping her face with his hands. "You'll be helping us by staying here."

She shook her head, "No."

The Halfling tightened his grip slightly, the young woman automatically meeting his eyes. "Sleep darling, and do not wake until you are told to" Vincent purred.

Rose collapsed onto the couch, falling into a deep sleep.

The Halfling stood, before leaving the room. He did not use his hypnosis very often, but both he and Adam knew how incredibly effective it was. It was one of the few benefits of being half vampire.

The noise of yelling came from the main room. Vincent growled, fire instantly appearing in his hands. They've arrived.

***************

Robert stormed into the castle, sword in hand. "Search for Rose and let nothing stand in your way! Take whatever you can find, but remember...the beast is mine!" His group fanned out, even Alexandria, he noted with a smirk. So she had finally decided to submit to him. Excellent.