Falcon

Vigo had dropped off the van but left as soon as he did. He wanted to spend some time with his wife, and it was their usual time together. I let him take one of my cars back to his house since he was coming back to work here sometime during the day. We were leaving for Lombardy at noon in order to make it by sunset. I’d already called Mary and Dante, telling them to gather the masses for an announcement.

Nora and I prepared to leave after we ate a bit of food. The sun had set across the Italian province, and it was time for me to address my people. I was more nervous than I ever could have imagined. I had to hold it together and be the voice of the people until someone birthed a little girl. The first thing would be to meet with my brother’s wife and son. After that, I would have to introduce Nora to those who gathered. Word had spread that I had found my mate and that she had been attacked. Showing her to the group may solidify their faith in the possible defeat of The Lamian soldiers.

“Are you ready, my love?” I asked her, sliding my hands around her waist as she looked at herself in the mirror. She had on one of her business suits with some of the jewelry I’d given her. She was perfect and elegant. Nora gave me a smile, but it wasn’t a full one that reached her eyes.

“I suppose so. There will be many who are frightened, and I must be strong,” she replied, pressing her head back on my chest. It was scary for all of us, but I was so proud of her. I uprooted her whole world in one meeting. She’d fought evil and came out the winner.

“For now, we must take control as the last of the ruling family. But it may not be that way if my mother’s prophecy is true. I have a feeling that Charlotte is with child.”

She turned in my arms, looking up at me with her hands pressed to my chest. “I think so, too. Do you think she could be the one?” There wasn’t any sign that she was upset by the possibility and that made me feel better.

I nodded because, in truth, having babies didn’t occur often and for her to be with child already may be the sign we had been waiting for. Frankly, I was ready for this to be all over with and to never have to battle The Lamia for dominance again. “Draco would make a formidable leader and Charlotte would be just like my mother.”

“I’m sorry that this brings all the pain right back for you,” she replied. Her eyes were full of remorse for having the reminder brought up, but there was no need for it. If I looked anywhere, I could find daily reminders of my parents and now my brother. His loss had to be the cruelest of them all. To watch as your own son struck the deathly blow had to have been painful.

“Thank you, my sweet Nora, but I am well. It has been a very long time and there’s nothing that will change it.”

“I hope Alessio’s mate doesn’t hate me. She is Nero’s mother.”

“Nero was nothing to her. My love, loving your children is nothing compared to loving your mate. She is lost without Alessio, and I fear that is what hurts. She will not hate you.”

“Then we should go. I know there will be danger, but you can get us out of there before it gets bad. And I’m stronger than I was earlier.” She was right. It had only been two days since Nero attacked, but she was healed completely. And I must address the worries of those in Lombardy and many others around. No way in hell would I let her out of my sight, so she had to come.

“Yes, you are. Hold tight, Nora,” I said, wrapping my arms around her and transporting us to my room in the castle. It was grand in comparison to the architecture of today. Centuries past and this room still kept its feel.

She gasped, looking in amazement. It was a special moment for us, but I knew it could not be relished. We had many things to do, but a sudden wave of satisfaction and ease washed over me. This was our room now.

“Where are we? Is this your room?” she asked, her eyes wide.

“It’s our room,” I said, kissing her softly. She melted into my kiss. Before I tore her clothes from her body, I remembered why we were here. “We have to meet with Dante and Mary.”

I took out my phone and called Dante. Reception wasn’t great in the castle, but we still managed a few bars. “Where do you want to meet?” I asked as soon as he answered.

“The conference room will be perfect.”

“We’re on our way,” I replied before hanging up. We entered the corridor and went down the grand hall. Her eyes scanned every tapestry and wall as we walked. I could have easily transported us there, but I didn’t want everyone to know that I could. Not everyone had been aware, and I didn’t know if it was just Dante and Mary waiting for me. His voice sounded off to me, as if there was something he wanted to say but couldn’t.

“This is like the castles they show on TV,” Nora exclaimed, her eyes widening in amazement. It dawned on me that this was all new to her. I’d lived here for so long that it was no surprise to me. I’d seen the world change in extraordinary ways over time, and she’d only been living in the world of technology.

“Yes, love, it is. I miss the castle at times,” I remarked, looking at the large family crest that graced the entrance to the conference room. It was of a falcon with its wings spread, its talons clutching an item in each claw. The left held a scroll, symbolizing learning and leadership; the snake on the right showed our hunting skills and strength. We had knowledge and power in our genes. It had carried through the sixteen centuries of our family. I smiled because I had hope for the first time that I may be able to carry on the family name with a son. I had no idea when that would be, but I had my mate and that was step one.

Staff and guards had been limited at the castle because the only ones to reside here were my brother and his family. The corridor had mostly been empty as the remaining guards were needed around the perimeter and were preparing for my speech. One guard stood outside the room and nodded to us. “Good evening, Sal,” I greeted. He smiled at me, surprised I remembered his name. I’d met millions of people over the centuries, but most were in passing. Sal had been a part of the initial guard when my parents were alive. Many were afraid to address me directly because of my ranking and usually dealt with Draco with the security matters.

“Good evening, your Grace,” he said.

Nora squeezed my hand anxiously. “All will be well, Leonora,” I whispered, kissing her briefly. Sal pulled the doors open and sitting at the table were Mary and Dante and two of the Supreme Council’s children. I hadn’t seen them in a very long time. They were two brothers, Placido and Pietro De Rosa. Their loss had been equal to mine, and they had been hunting and killing Lamian soldiers for a full century, but they had too much to lose once they had families.

“Lord Lombardi, we are honored that you would address the people. They will need your guidance,” Placido said as they all rose to greet us. I wondered what they were doing here and why no one had deemed it important to tell me about it.

“Thank you, Placido. Everything is as well as can be with your families?” I asked as I looked at both brothers. They were tall, not nearly as tall as Draco or I, but they had to be about six feet each. They were the complete opposites of each other in coloring. Pietro looked darker with features like his father, and Placido had his mother’s fair features and strawberry blonde hair.

“Yes, they are well despite the return of The Lamia,” Pietro said. I had never met their mates because I had lost contact with them when they had found them. My heart hadn’t been into greeting new mates when I had not discovered my own.

“I would like all of you to meet my mate, Leonora.” I grabbed her hand and kissed it. “Dearest, this is Placido and Pietro De Rosa. And this is Mary and Dante Lombardi.”

“It is a pleasure to meet all of you,” she said, nodding to the men but then turning her attention to Mary. “Although, I must say it wasn’t the way I expected to do so. I am sorry for your loss,” Nora added.

She gave Nora a weak smile, then straightened her shoulders, held her head high, and said, “My husband’s death will be avenged, but we are pleased that you are well.” I could see that Mary had been only holding on by a thread. The remnants of tear stains graced her lovely face. Her heart was falling apart, but she was here to hold her ground and avenge her love.

“What brings you to see us, fellas,” I asked my old friends. My mind was focused on the fact that they weren’t supposed to be here. This was a family meeting, or so I thought it was.

Pietro was the first to speak. “We are here to inform you that we will do all we can to protect our people, that we stand united with you. Rumors have been growing and had spread during our travels to England and we wished to inform you what we’ve learned.”

“What rumors?” I asked. London was a breeding ground for vampires. The darkness of the winters and almost constant fog led many to seek life in the darkness in the major city. Other than an occasional medical conference or symposium, I hadn’t been to London since Jack the Ripper had gone off to wreak havoc elsewhere. One of our own had enjoyed leaving the bloody victims and had disappeared in the night, leaving the world to wonder who’d murdered all those ladies of the street. I remembered the night I crossed paths with him.

I’d been walking the streets of London as a local bobby. I took the charge because I was bored with my present situation and having an eternal life meant I could do as I pleased and start over as something else tomorrow. It gave me the opportunity to scope out my kind acting on the unsuspecting humans. I’d stopped many murders on the streets of London’s seedy areas that were riddled with the destitute.

I could never forget Jack’s bright eyes as a strong smirk etched his face. The face had been pale and gaunt but the charm of our kind still front and center. He gave me a wink and I shook my head at him. That was the night he claimed his first victim Mary Ann Nichols. It wouldn’t be our last encounter either.

I was shaken out of my memory when Placido said, “The Lamia have been recruiting. I didn’t know if the information had been credible, but then the next morning we learned of the attack here and returned to speak to you about it.”

“Thank you for coming and making us aware of the situation. Yes, the threat has turned into actual violence. For them to strike at my home and then at my place of business, the meaning is clear. They want to battle with me. I will not rest until all Lamian supporters turn to ash. Even if they wished to takeover, they would need us to continue the pursuit as we’re the only ones searching for a cure. Unless Stavros and his minions have grown to love the darkness that much,” I stated.

“I believe they have their own scientists,” Dante stated, looking out the window absently.

“What makes you believe that they do?” I asked my nephew, my voice was harder than I intended.

Dante turned to look at me with a bit of hesitation. He took a deep breath before explaining what he had learned. “Before Nero struck, he mentioned something about Leonora not being needed. A cure was going to be found by Stavros.”

“Truly?” I asked. This wasn’t good. Vampires aching for a release out of the darkness would join his side just for a chance to live in the light again. Lies about how they were close could sway many into following their path. Could that be the way he was gaining fools like Nero to do his bidding? A promise of the sun again?

“Yes, but I don’t know if he was blinded by the words and promises of Stavros or if he knew something he had not shared,” Dante answered.

“We must find out either way. I wouldn’t trust Stavros with a cure. It would probably be tainted with poison,” I stated, thinking about the ramifications of Stavros finding a cure. He would hold it as a way to gain power. Could that have been the purpose of attacking the lab? To destroy our efforts or learn what progress we had made? Either way, they didn’t succeed, and soon Leonora and Vigo would be back to work.

“I agree. There is no way he could ever be trusted,” Dante replied.

“Well, you have us and our sons on your side. It has been a long time since we’ve battled in hand to hand combat with them, but we still train once a week in the ways of war. Our boys have learned to fight, and I feel at your side, they will gain more skills,” Placido pledged.

“Yes, we will wish to begin training as early as tomorrow, but there is much to do. And as many who wish to fight are forced into the darkness, night time training and battles will be very essential. And we’ll need to have leaders around the clock. If you will be willing, you both could lead many of the training sessions.”

“We’d be honored, my Lord,” Placido said with a bow.

“Very well, but please address me as Falcon in private. Thank you for coming and pledging your support. We shall need every able-bodied vampire to participate in the battles.” I was beyond pleased that they would come from their journey to aid against The Lamia. As I remembered, they were excellent in combat and would be valuable assets to our army.

“What of Draco? Shouldn’t he be here? Please tell us he did not perish,” Pietro asked. Draco was the number one warrior and ultimate trainer of all our men before the destruction of the Council.

“He is well. He is with his mate, dealing with other matters,” I informed them. It was fair to say that Draco had been joined at the hip with me for centuries and many would question his whereabouts.

“Good. I can’t imagine fighting in battles without you two leading the way.”

The clock struck eight and it was time for me to make my way to the balcony that my mother had stood at and attempt to rally our people to come together. “Come, please stand with us as I address the people,” I said, inviting them in a gesture of solidarity. Dante led the way to the balcony and Mary stayed behind to guard us but leaving the doors open. We had no idea if there were any in the crowd with ties to the enemy.

The crowd cheered at our arrival. And it was massive. I scanned the people, looking for friendly faces and seeing many. It was then that I saw my best friend and his mate standing at the center back of the entrance to the courtyard looking on. I knew he couldn’t stay behind. It was in his nature to stay close at all times. I nodded to him and then they disappeared without attracting notice. Within a minute, Draco and Charlotte stood by our sides as a united front with determination on their faces. Word had spread quickly that a gathering would be held by nightfall. I continued to examine the expressions of their faces, looking for any tell-tale signs of traitors in the midst. I leaned over in Draco’s ear and whispered so low that only he could hear me, “Monitor the crowd. Their faces will tell us who is a threat.”

Draco nodded in response. Nothing else needed to be said.

I raised my hand to the crowd, silently asking for their silence. Once they had simmered down to a hush, I began:

Welcome all. Many of you are aware that we in the Lombardi family have suffered the loss of Lord Alessio. It weighs heavy on our hearts as we try to come to terms with his death. He was a brave vampire, who died protecting us from The Lamia. I will forever miss my brother. His memory shall drive me to do what we must. We cannot falter in the path that we’ve been on. The Lamia has been attempting to seize a power that has never been theirs. They wish to rule all vampires, humans, and other creatures. We cannot let this happen. The Army of Light must be built and become the force we had been under the Council’s guidance. We shall once again be forced into battle with The Lamia. Their numbers will never match the magnitude of our skills. I ask that you all remain strong. As I lead you into war with our enemy, I feel that my mother's prophecy is nearly upon us.

I know that many have struggled greatly these many years. This life in darkness has broken down your soul; however, we must not let the enemy win. It was The Lamia who put the darkness on us with the help of dark sorcery. There is hope on the horizon and we must cling to it as the coming months will be unsettling to all. My lab has been working towards a cure for a very long time. As the humans have advanced in fields of genetic testing, we have been able to utilize it to our favor. This beautiful creature is my mate. She has been working alongside us for a cure and has stumbled on new hope.

I feel your agony and your need for solutions. I ask that you take to heart that the end of this war is near.

I ask that if you wish to serve in our army, please see us to enlist. If you cannot come out during the light, we’ll have training under the moon.

I will take a few questions.

I pointed to the vampire in the near back with his hand up. “How do we know that we can trust that should you defeat The Lamia you won’t become a tyrant?”

“I do not know you, young man. However, I am the only remaining member of the Supreme Council. If I had wished to take power, it was mine these past three-hundred years. I am the highest-ranking vampire in the lands, yet I have been working hard over the centuries fighting The Lamia and searching for a cure to the darkness. Something I didn’t need to do as I haven’t been forced there. I am only here to lead the battle and guide you all through. If you all recall my mother’s prophecy, it would be parents of the first female born vampire who would rule and help destroy The Lamia. I don’t know who that is. My mate and I have only met, the same with my friend Draco and his mate. It could be any of the people below. Another question?”

“Is there a reason it has taken so long to find the leader of The Lamia?”

“That’s a very good question. He has been forced into the darkness, and it was best to let him live with his monster he created and brought on himself. With continuing attempts to seize control of vampires, we have returned the battle and have always won, but he flees or never appears in battle to begin with. After the battles ended, we moved to hunting for a cure. We sought the best and the most bizarre and nothing until recently with the new age of medicine has helped lead us in the right direction. Any other questions?”

We stood there as they pondered the next question. Then a female raised her hand and I pointed at her to speak. “How will this all carry on with the humans around? They will notice battles going on.”

“That’s another excellent question. We have some methods, but that isn’t something we should discuss publicly. We have managed to fly under their radar for so long that we will manage. In addition, if you do have a special gift, please inform us. Not all of us are made the same, just like any other animal. Thank you, now I ask you to return home and make your decisions and seek out our people to become a part of the Army of Light.”

I bowed to the people and returned back inside the castle with Nora at my side. My team had grown already, and it was only a matter of time before we had a large army at our side as massive or even greater than the one before. “Pietro, Placido, please go with Mary and Dante as they begin registering the soldiers. I must speak with Draco.”

“Yes, my Lord,” Pietro said with a smile. “I’ve longed for another battle and revenge. The Lamia will pay for our fates.” They had been relegated to the darkness as well. I felt like one fortunate soul, and it was my duty to share that fortune and bring them back to the light.

“Yes, they shall,” Mary uttered, escorting them out to the courtyard where I was certain many had already gathered.

“Falcon,” Nora called out as she clung to my side.

I looked down at her and asked, “Yes, my beloved?”

“I’ve been thinking about the lab. Do you think we should close down the entire building? Maybe sell it? If we have everything at the house, we won’t need it anymore.” Her mind was always focused on science. I loved the brilliance she brought with her. Never had I met someone as smart and as engrossed in their line of work.

“That is true, but I don’t wish for you to think of that at the moment. In fact, I wish for us to take some time here for the next few days as we assemble the men. Allow Vigo to rebuild it.” I turned to Draco and Charlotte. “Do you believe you can assist Vigo on your own? I wish to greet those who wish to join.”

“Shall I return in the morning?” Draco asked, clearly wishing to be alone with Charlotte.

“Yes, so we may begin the training with those in the light.” I addressed Charlotte, “Is there anything that I need to be aware of?”

“No; as it happens, you are on the right path. I fear the battles in the future will come swiftly. I don’t believe Stavros has thought through his course of action yet. Unless he is aware of me and is waiting to make a final decision, which I don’t think he is. I feel as though his goal is to catch us off guard as often as possible. The war will be spread out in territories that are vacant or already battle torn locations.”

“Good, we must keep it that way. I have no desire for him to learn of your gifts. You would be his target then,” I stated. Draco nodded as he tried to remain calm, but he was thinking about losing Charlotte and that would never be a good path of contemplation. They said their goodbyes before disappearing, leaving Nora and I alone in the room.

“Come. Let us meet with those eager to sign up.” I grabbed her hand as we joined the rest down at the courtyard. There were so many vampires that it took me a moment to wonder if they planned to sign up or were only interested in learning more.

“Mary, what is going on here?” I asked, approaching the large table that was set up.

“These men wish to fight for us and those they know who are suffering in the darkness,” she said. I could see she was pleased, but her heart was breaking as she stood there.

“Mother, I wish you would go and rest,” Dante said, taking her hand in his. He was a good son and his father would be proud of him. The fact that a son could turn on a parent was unfathomable to me. I loved my parents and mourned their loss for centuries.

She turned, her small smile etched in pain. Caressing his cheek, she woefully replied, “My sweet son, I cannot. I can’t be alone with my thoughts. They haunt me with each passing moment.”

“Sire,” Pietro called out to me. I looked into his direction and noticed two large men at his side. They were about Draco’s size with hulking frames. If it wasn’t for the genuine smiles on their faces, I would have thought it was battle time.

“Yes?” I responded, holding Leonora to my side. As insane as it was, a rush of primal jealousy slammed into me. She belonged to me and no one could steal her from me, but the thought of losing her was prominent in my mind.

“These boys are here to join,” he said proudly, clapping their backs.

“These are your sons?” I asked. They were huge, but that wasn’t always a good thing. Smaller, thinner vampires were more agile than ones that looked like body builders.

“This is Fierro, Placido’s son, and Lorenzo is mine.”

“Hello, men. Welcome to the Army of Light. Let me introduce you to my mate. This is Lady Leonora Lombardi.” We hadn’t had a marriage via the human ways, but we would do it civilly soon for appearances sake.

They bowed to her, giving her the respect her status deserved, which she wasn’t used to accepting. “Lady Leonora. It is wonderful to meet you.”

“Thank you, gentlemen. Falcon, if you’ll excuse me, I wish to speak with Mary for a moment.”

“Yes, my love. I’ll be right here.” I watched her walk away and up to Mary. They smiled at each other, then they turned to the next group of vampires ready to enlist.

“Have you signed up with Mary already?” I asked, looking at the big boys.

“Yes, we have. It’s a fast-growing list,” he cheered. These two looked like they were itching to do some fighting. I liked that a lot. We needed those willing to give it all in the end, although I hoped it didn’t come to that. We’d had a great record and I wanted to keep it that way.

I gave them a nod. “Fantastic. Training will begin tomorrow at sun up for those in the light. Your talents may be very useful for the night trainings and may give Draco and I some rest.” My eyes are focused on Leonora. It only took a moment for her to look my way. She turned her head looking over her shoulder.

“I need to make an announcement. Please excuse me.” I stepped away from them to get Leonora.

I slipped my hand around her waist and pulled her to me. “Come with me for a moment.” We entered the castle, then teleported to the balcony inner courtyard. “I need to inform them of something before you and I retire for the night.”

“Okay, Falcon,” she said without asking questions. Her love and trust in me made me strong. I had to taste her lips before addressing the people waiting once more.

I whistled, gaining everyone’s attention. The voices hushed, and for the first time, I felt like a true leader of the people. A leader as a warrior was one thing. I commanded armies, but the people of Lombardi were my mother’s domain. “Hello, may I have your attention, please.

“I am extremely pleased at the turn out, and it makes me proud. Training will begin at sun up for those who can enter the light. An hour after sunset, those in the darkness can train. Please be prepared to test your limits. Many of you have already fought by my side and I’m grateful that you have again put your faith in me. Thank you, and rest well.” I took her hand and guided my lovely mate to our bed chambers. I walked through the dark halls lit by tiny lanterns on the sides of each painting that graced this side of the castle. It had always been one of my favorite locations.

“I’m totally going to get lost in here.”

“No, I shall be with you,” I replied, taking her hand to my lips and kissing her soft, smooth skin. “I won’t allow you to be lost.”

“Falcon, make love to me,” she said in a hushed tone, staring up at me with her eyes bright and needy.

“I love when you ask with pleading breathlessness. It’s heady and sends desire straight to my loins. I’m going to love you hard.” I smiled at my mate, looking into her eyes with the longing I always had for her. If it wasn’t for the war, I would be inside her all day long. My lustful thoughts were forced to be tucked away. With her request, I could not refuse.

With a forceful grip on her waist, I tossed her onto the mattress, landing over her with my hands supporting my weight on the sides of her head. I stared down at my mate, my desire looming in my penetrative gaze. She gasped, the softest little sound passing her beautiful red lips. Her eyes were bright and hungry. Our clothes were tossed about as we undressed each other between kisses. Our skin brushed against each other as we both ran our hands all over. I grabbed her ass, squeezing a cheek hard, so she bit my lip in retaliation making me bleed.

I nipped at her bottom lip as I lifted her off the bed and onto my lap. I wanted her to take hers. The bite stirred my desire. She confidently straddled my thighs as I licked her lip, tasting the drop of blood. Arching her brow, she grinned and shook her head.

“Talk about a love bite,” she purred as leaned forward and kissed my lips, slipping her tongue inside to taste her victory in my blood. With a rumble, I lifted her hips and speared her on my length. Her tight pussy gloved my cock to perfection. I wanted to come, but I wanted to take our time; to love as humans, not as vampires. She began to roll her hips, her body rocking and riding me like I was her mount. I took her breast into my mouth, tasting her softness mixed with her hard nipple. My cock was throbbing as she danced on top of me. I had to kiss her; our passion had grown with every movement and both of us were teetering on the brink of coming. Breaking our kiss, I watched her vein beating to a rhythm just for me.

“Mine,” I growled, nudged her head to the side, and bit down on her racing pulse. I felt her walls clench around me and a cry escaped her lips as she came on my cock. I was with her, coming into her body, filling her up with my seed as I drank from her. Pulling my mouth from her neck, I licked the wound closed then tilted my head. Her bite sent another orgasm ripping through me, one I didn’t know I had in me.

I roared and pumped my hips until I felt her tongue lick her bite on my neck. “Mine,” she stated, looking at me deeply with a bit of blood dribbling down the side of her mouth. So much for human sex. It was still incredible and draining. We wrapped ourselves up in the covers with her back pressed to my chest and our legs intertwined, then fell happily asleep.