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Things have been very quiet here for a while, so I am going to do something new.

I have been working on this story for the past couple of months while posting it to the Gargoyles femslash Yahoo Group. The idea concerning it is this.

I shall continue to work on it, but I shall post updates to it HERE (as well as Gargfemslash). However, at any time someone can add to the story. Once someone does I shall stop adding sections of the regular (and solely mine) version of HER CRIMSON KISS to this version.

It shall become an independent and separate version, although I will continue to write the regular version on my own. Once I am done with the regular version I will post it here. So that the visitors here can compare it to the Round Robin version.

2 separate stories originating from the same root tale.

HER CRIMSON KISS

The entire Wyvern Clan mourned. For their friend Elisa Maza, the only human member of the Clan, was dead.

The female detectives body had been found in her apartment days ago. Unmarked except for two small wounds in her neck, and completely drained of blood.

There were many suspects, for detective Maza had made many enemies during her career. Nevertheless, Elisas colleagues could find no evidence linking any individual to the crime.

However, Goliath and his Clan had come to their own conclusions.

They believed the rogue Gargoyle Demona to be responsible.

For all of Elisa Mazas other major enemies were either imprisoned, dead, or (like David and Fox Xanatos) had seemingly made peace with the detective. Only the vengeful Demona remained free and deadly (so far as the Clan knew, at least).

Even Demonas daughter Angela, who had always been the most sympathetic and forgiving towards her mother of all the Clan, thought her mother had probably done it. Only the eldest member of the Wyvern Clan, Hudson, expressed any doubts. Hudson said that the way Elisa Maza had been killed reminded him of a series of murders that had occurred at Castle Wyvern when he was a youth (decades before Demona was even hatched) and suggested a different type of killer entirely.

But the rest of the Clan paid no attention to his doubts. They wanted vengeance for their friends murder.

The Clan could not attend the funeral for it occurred during the day (though Elisas family assured the Gargoyles they would have been welcome). But the Gargoyle Clan held their own mourning ceremony for their slain friend the next night.

Honoring Elisa Maza as a comrade who had fallen in battle. However, after the ceremony the Clan gradually left one at a time, until only the leader Goliath remained.

Once he was alone, the massive Gargoyle put his clawed hand on his lovers tombstone and promised her that he would make Demona pay for what she had done. However, eventually even Goliath left.

Hours later, a feminine hand burst from the earth of Elisa Mazas grave. Then the rest of its body followed.

*****

Cagney lay purring in Detective Matt Bluestones lap. Rubbing against the redhead as Matt stroked the cat and sat in front of his big screen television in his little apartment.

But though the late Detective Elisa Mazas cat was happy, her (former) partner was not.

Bluestone had offered Cagney to the Wyvern Clan after Elisa Mazas death but Goliath and the other Clan members didnt seem interested. They were too obsessed with getting their hands on Demona and punishing her for Elisas death.

Moreover, detective Bluestone had other concerns.

Since Elisa Mazas death two weeks ago there had been a series of similar murders. The victims were all drained of blood and had prominent wounds in their necks. However, unlike Elisa these men looked as though their throats had been torn out by a wolf, and many of them appeared to have put up a struggle before dying.

The victims apparently had nothing in common, beyond the fact that they were all male and violent criminals. Since the death toll was approaching two dozen the top brass at the NYPD had assigned a number of detectives (including Matt Bluestone) to the case.

Most of the detectives were assuming that they were dealing with some sort of vigilant. However, Matt thought differently.

Draining armed criminals completely of blood would be neither the easiest nor most efficient method of killing them. Moreover, if the intent was to torture the victims to death, there were easier and more effective ways of doing that too.

Something more was going on, Matt Bluestone was convinced.

*****

Amelia Carter wept softly. Sure that the thugs who had assaulted her and dragged her to this alley less than five minutes ago were about to rape her now that they had stripped of all her clothes.

It seemed so UNFAIR.
She had been only a few feet away from her car.

The brutish men held her against the alley wall, and Amelia shut her eyes tightly. Not wanting to gaze into the faces of her rapists as they violated her.

Then their hands were unexpectedly removed, and Amelia Carter heard male voices screaming and pleading.

The frightened naked woman used her now free hands to cover her sex and large breasts. But Amelia refused to open her eyes until the screaming and begging stopped.

Once it did, Amelia Carter opened her eyes, and beheld something beyond her comprehension.

Two of the three thugs who had attacked her lay on the ground in broken heaps. One was laying at an odd angle that made it clear his spine had been broken. The other had a ragged wound in his throat that for some reason didnt bleed.

However the remaining would be rapist was held in the arms of a small dusky skinned woman. The female wore nothing but rags, and appeared to be biting the mans neck. The male was apparently already dead, for he didnt struggle against his attacker or make any other movement.

But the dusky woman noticed Amelia watching her and let go of the man. Amelia Carters attacker fell to the ground in heap, as his killer faced Amelia directly.

The female killers eyes seemed to glow in the dim light, and her mouth was covered in blood. Most shocking of all though, were the prominent fangs she displayed as she opened her mouth to say something.

It was too much for Amelia Carter.

After everything she had experienced tonight she couldnt take anymore. She fainted dead away, the creatures words unheard.

*****

Destine Manor was a luxurious appointed mansion. And perhaps no room had been more lavishly decorated than the main bathroom.

The floor, walls, and ceiling were all made of gleaming white marble. The toilet was practically a porcelain throne, and the bath tub was big enough to easily hold several people.

However, the azure colored Gargoyle currently using the bath rub could appreciate none of it. For she had barely escaped her latest encounter with the Wyvern Clan.

Demona tenderly washed the long claw marks that Goliath had made in her wings and back. Her former mate seemed to be actually trying to kill her now.

Desperate to avenge the death of his human love.

Demona laughed bitterly at the thought.

How like you detective MazaI try to kill you again and again and you somehow escape each timeyet when you actually die I still get blamed for it the immortal brooded.

However, her daughters reaction when Demona had encountered the Clan tonight had hurt the ancient Gargoyle far more than Goliaths physical assault.

Angela had not attacked Demona verbally or physically (unlike the rest of the Wyvern Clan). She had merely looked at her mother with complete and utter loathing.

A look Demona could not forget.
No matter how hard she tried.

Damn you Elisa Mazathis is all your fault Demona swore aloud as she looked around her horribly empty house.

*****

Matt Bluestone and his colleagues were fighting again.

Of course if anyone else had called it that in front of them they would have denied it. But the fact of the matter was that that was exactly what the detectives assigned to the new serial killer case were doing.

It had all begun when the they had the first big break in the case.

A woman who had been found unconscious and naked in front of a local hospital the previous night claimed that she had witnessed one of the murders. According to her testimony the victims had attempted to rape her before being killed. However, this was not what the detectives (except for Matt Bluestone) had so much trouble believing.

It was Amelia Carters description of the killer.

Come on Bluestonevampires Richard Graves, the most senior (and conservative) of the detectives assigned to the case exclaimed in disbelief.

The other detectives in the police officers lounge made various sounds of agreement. Not willing to consider another one of Bluestones wild theories.

Oh come peoplea serial killer is sucking out peoples blood through holes in their neckyou CANT deny something strange is going on Matt Bluestone yelled in frustration.

But his audience was unmoved by his passion.

Richard Graves was white haired and wrinkled, but he was still tall and fit and often used his size to intimidate people. He attempted to do so now as he walked over to Bluestone and glared down at him.

Its that kind of crazy thinking that got you kicked out of the FBI Graves bellowed.

The loss of his status as an FBI agent was a sore point with detective Bluestone, and he had a strong urge to strike out at Graves. However, he reminded himself of how unprofessional it would be and how much trouble he would be in, and he was able to resist the aggressive impulse.

And its that kind of thinking that got your old partner killed detective Graves continued in a softer tone.

Matts answering punch knocked the other officer completely off his feet.

*****

Captain Maria Chavez sat staring at the redheaded detective standing before her desk. Her office was silent except for the sound of their breathing.

Finally she spoke.

Detective Graves has elected not to press charges.

What Matt Bluestone exclaimed in shock.

Despite Graves insulting comments Matt was the only one to attack physically. Detective Graves would be perfectly justified (legally at least) in pressing charges.

Graves said he started it the middle aged policewoman replied in a neutral tone. Knowing Graves was the type of man who wouldnt forgive being knocked down in public, and puzzled by his actions.

The she continued her speech in a far harsher tone.
But just because he is willing to overlook it dont assume I amI am putting an official reprimand on your recordand if you do ANYTHING like this again I will have your badge.

Bluestone repressed a sigh of relief. It was about the best he could hope for really (given the circumstances).

And I am taking you off the serial killer case the Latina police captain said coolly.

What you cant do thatwere finally starting to make some progress Bluestone protested.

I know Matt but your obviously too emotionally involved in this caseand my decision is final Captain Chavez said with iron in her tone.

But as detective Matt Bluestone left his superiors office a few minutes later, he knew that regardless of his orders, he wouldnt stop looking for Elisa Mazas killer.

*****

The creature which had once been Elisa Maza (and perhaps still was) stared into the window of a massage parlor that had closed for the night. The place smelled of sweat, chemicals, and sex, but Elisa barely noticed.

Too caught up in her own thoughts.

When Elisa Maza (formerly of the NYPD) had first awoken to her second life her mind had been filled with little more than hunger and instinct. However, as she continued to feed and gain strength, more and more of her memories returned.

Moreover, even from the beginning some things from her previous life had stayed with her. Such as her conviction that she must not harm the innocent. Which was why she had only fed from and killed those she considered guilty (and deserving of death).
However, Elisa was still far from her normal state of mind (as a human). She had not even bothered to change out of (or clean) the clothes she had been buried in.

As she stared into her pretty but dirty face and her own glowing eyes (in the windows reflection) an important memory returned.

ElisaElisaMazaELISA MAZA the ragged looking female exclaimed in rising joy. Happy that she had remembered her name.

Elisa Maza stood in front of the window for what seemed like a long time. Happily repeating her own name. Until she saw two familiar winged forms up in the sky.

Friends the blood sucker said in a childlike voice, as she gazed up at the two Gargoyles.

*****

Angela found herself thinking about the Tattoo Magazine which had been her friend Elisa Mazas last gift to her. The lavender female Gargoyle had half jokingly said she was thinking about getting one. In response her generous human friend had gotten her the magazine.

After quickly skimming through it she had decided to give it to her fellow Clan member Brooklyn (who seemed to be developing an interest in such things). Then Elisa had died, and the magazine seemed far more precious.

As the curvaceous female flew through the air she wondered if she should get a tattoo. Unconsciously giving the idea more credence than she otherwise would have for it had been the last thing she had discussed with her friend.

Beside her flew the Clan elder (and former leader) Hudson.

Ever since Elisa Mazas murder the Clan members always remained in groups outside of Castle Wyvern. For Goliath was afraid that their enemy Demonas apparent murder of Elisa Maza was only the opening move of a wider campaign to capture or eliminate the Clan (based upon his own bitter experience with the female Gargoyle).

But Hudson was less interested in staying on the look out for the female who had betrayed the Clan and consorted with humans in order to bring about humanitys downfall then he was in finding the monsters only he (among the Clan at least) believed in. Unlike Goliath, Angela, and the rest of the Clan he was convinced that such undead predators were responsible for Elisas death.

However, no one Hudson talked to seemed interested in hearing about vampires.

The white haired old Gargoyle was so lost in his own thoughts that he did not notice the female form that climbed up a skyscraper and began to leap from building to building (in order to follow the Gargoyles) with superhuman speed and strength.

But Angela did.

The dark haired female gazed carefully at the woman following them. And instantly recognized her familiar features.

It was her supposedly dead friend Elisa Maza.

Elisas alive Angela said in a breathy whisper.

The pretty Gargoyle left Hudsons side and flew down to the rooftop that Maza was standing on.

If Angela had not been so overjoyed to see Elisa Maza she probably would have taken note of how unusually filthy Elisa was, and she definitely would have taken note of the uncharacteristic strength and speed the former policewoman had just displayed.

But Angela had not seen Elisa Mazas death or even her friends corpse, and part of her had always hoped that her friend was not really dead. Now it appeared her hopes had not been in vain.

Angela landed on the rooftop in front of her friend, and scooped Elisa into her arms. Barely noticing that the smaller females body was far cooler than it should have been.

Unfortunately Elisa Maza reacted instinctively as the large winged female hugged her. Seeking out the life giving blood within the soft flesh she was clutched to, and sinking her fangs deep into Angelas neck.

The female Gargoyle screamed as Elisa bit her neck and tried to push Maza off. But the former detective was far stronger than any unmodified human. Moreover, Angelas blood tasted far sweeter and more nourishing than any of the human blood Elisa had dined on previously. So the dusky skinned woman refused to let go.

Angelas eyes turned crimson and she let out a howl of pain and fury as she changed tactics and sank her claws deep into the sides of Elisas stomach. The bloodsucker screeched and let go. Falling to the rooftop only be kicked away by Angela.

Angela collapsed clutching her bleeding neck. Too disoriented and weakened to continue her attack. Elisa was less wounded, even though Angelas claws had sank deep into her flesh, for her body was far more resilient than it had been in her first life.

However, the pain Angela had inflicted on Elisa had shocked her out of her bloodlust, and she was horrified by what she had done.

Though her memory was still fragmented, Elisa Maza knew that she should protect Angela, not hurt her.

No..no..no..this is ALL WRONG Elisa whimpered.

The blood pouring from the wound in Angelas neck should not be coming out. Humans and Gargoyles needed to keep their blood inside their bodies to remain healthy and strong, Maza remembered.

Crimson tears ran down her cheeks as Elisa realized just how badly she had hurt her friend. She ripped off a piece of her own tattered clothing then rushed to Angelas side with supernatural quickness.

Removing Angelas hands from her neck with amazing strength and tying the piece of clothe around the Gargoyles neck as a kind of improvised bandage.

Unfortunately for Elisa her actions had not gone unnoticed.

While Hudson had not immediately known why Angela had veered away from him and landed he had witnessed the human like attacker bite Angelas neck, and he assumed that Elisa was going to do so again.

The elder Gargoyle male landed with an audible thud in front of the wounded female Gargoyle and the formerly human woman. Unsheathing his sword as he did so.

Hudson was horribly surprised by what had happened.

In less than two minutes Angela had approached an apparently human vagrant and then been attacked with savage fury without warning. Horribly wounding the younger Gargoyle in the process.

Now the creature appeared to be trying to finish Angela off.

As Hudson settled on the rooftop before the two females, he got a good look at Elisa Mazas facial features. As well as the blood tears running from her eyes and the crimson fluid around her mouth.

Vampire Hudson said in horrified recognition.

Hud..HudHudsonIm sorryI didnt mean tooshe justI cant Elisa stuttered. Trying to remember and figure out the right words.

But Hudson didnt hesitate to swing his sword to decapitate her. For Hudson had encountered vampires as a hatchling, and from that experience he had come to believe that no vampire possessed any good within them. Regardless of who they had been before becoming undead.

However, he had forgotten how supernaturally quick the undead predators were, and Elisa easily dodged away from his blade.

IM SORRY the vampire wailed as she ran to the side of the rooftop and jumped off. Hudson rushed to where she had dived off the building, but as he looked down he saw no sign of her.

The Clan elder growled in frustration and turned away.

He had to see that Angela got medical attention before anything else. But he fully intended to hunt this undead version of his former Clan mate at the first opportunity.

*****

Atop Castle Wyvern where their Clan usually slept during the day, Hudson and Angela were telling Brooklyn, Broadway, Lexington, and of course their leader Goliath about the attack upon Angela.

Angelas wounds had been treated and she now had a surgical bandage across them. However, though the danger (of her dying) had passed she still felt too weak and upset to do much talking. Hudson had no such problem and the elder male described the event in great detail, and finished by saying that they had to destroy the abomination now wearing Elisa Mazas form.

But we cant just kill hershes still Elisa isnt she Lexington protested.

No ladit canna be reasoned withto that thing humans and Gargoyles are just food and drink now Hudson replied firmly.

However, the trio were unconvinced, and Broadway and Brooklyn began to question Hudsons suggested policy of extermination. The old Gargoyle was unusually rude and casually dismissed their objections. Saying that they didnt understand because none of them knew vampires like he did.

Angela said nothing, for though she was angry at Elisa for almost killing her, she was not sure that her formerly human friend deserved to die for it.

Goliath was silent as he considered his old mentors words. He had seen his beloved Elisas body, and he knew she had died. But if she still existed in some form however altered

Eventually the Clan leader had had enough of Hudson, Broadway, Lexington, and Brooklyn arguing and interrupted them, saying in his deep voice.

If Elisa still exists in some form we owe our friend and comrade more than another death.

Hudson looked at the Clan leader critically.
Then what do ya want to do ladits not like we can just let her run around and keep attacking people the Clan elder said angrily.

We must confront her and if she refuses to come peacefully we will capture her by forcehowever I will NOT permit lethal force to be used against heris that clear Goliath said in a commanding tone.

Hudson simply stood staring at his friend and former subordinate angrily. Fuming over the fact that Goliath was ignoring his advice so completely. Despite the fact that he was the only one present who knew anything about Vampires.

Hudson continued to glare at Goliath and the rest of the Clan looked on in surprise, for it was not normal for Hudson to challenge the Clan leaders authority like this. But none of them really understood the depth of the Clan elders hatred for vampires.

Hudson had never been able to forgive himself for being able to do so little to fight the undead killers that had once plagued Castle Wyvern when he was a hatchling.

When Hudson still didnt reply Goliath growled out is that clear?

Hudson continued to glare for a moment then he lowered his gaze and sighed aye.

Goliath and the rest of the Clan hoped that that would end the argument. However as daylight approached and Goliath saw how upset his mentor still looked, he suspected the argument was far from over.

*****

From the moment vampires began their new unlife they knew many things instinctively. And one of the most important things was to avoid (and fear) sunlight.

So shortly before sunrise, the wounded vampire Elisa Maza jumped inside a dumpster (outside a Vietnamese restaurant), covered herself in trash and pulled the dumpster lid down (to protect herself from the suns rays). As the lid closed Elisa felt a bit of relief that she was no longer risking direct exposure to the hurtful sunlight. However, that feeling was overshadowed by her physical and emotional wounds.

The wounds Angela had made in Elisas stomach were healing at an incredible (to her) rate, and would probably be gone by nightfall. Nevertheless, they remained quite painful, and Elisa was not operating at her full strength. Moreover, the vampire also had psychological wounds to consider.

Elisa still did not remember everything about Angela or even herself, but she remembered enough to know that the young female Gargoyle had been her friend, and that her actions might have killed Angela.

This mortified her.

Because now Elisa knew that she had NOT merely harmed contemptible prey (like her earlier victims) but someone she cared about. And Elisa didnt want to face that.

Elisa Maza had been so horribly alone since she had arose as a vampire. But now that she had finally seen a friendly face, she been unable to resist sinking her fangs into it. Leaving her alone again.

However, what made it worse, what made her shame and self loathing acute, was that a small, greedy part of her was glad. For Angelas blood was the most delicious thing she had ever tasted.

If anyone had been near the dumpster during sunrise they would have heard quiet sobbing coming from it. Unfortunately no one was.

*****

The female known as Dominique Destine looked at the designs on her personal computer within her bedchambers at Destine Manor. Beside her computer on Dominiques fine oak desk a plate of gourmet food lay virtually untouched.

The designs were for a memorial statue to honor the Gargoyles who had fallen at human hands during the long conflict between humans and Gargoyles. Demona had planned to build it once the human menace was finally dealt with. However that happy event (as Demona considered it) seemed no closer to happening.

Dominique Destine saved the memorial statue files and shut down her computer with a sigh. She had nothing to celebrate, her latest scheme had failed.

She had tried to create another fatal disease that would affect humans but leave Gargoyles untouched. Instead her corporate scientists at Nightstone had actually created something that appeared like it would be more lethal to Gargoyles than anything else.

Stupid humanswhy is it that the only time they seem to have trouble killing each other is when I command it the seemingly human redhead thought as she bemoaned her fate. Then she went back to eating caviar.

*****

His wedding ring felt like a great weight pulling on him, as Henry Irons took out the days trash. Irons felt guilty about seeing his girlfriend Tricia tonight, however now that Henrys wife was in the late stages of pregnancy (carrying the couples first child) sex was difficult and uncomfortable for her (perhaps even dangerous at this stage) and Irons was not willing to remain celibate with her.

Tricia, despite her spitefulness and materialism, was an attractive woman willing to put out and that was what Irons felt he needed.

Nevertheless, Henry still felt like he was betraying his wife Samantha. Who had remained loyal and caring throughout their relationship.

Oh come onwhat Sam doesnt know wont hurt herbesides all that stuff Mom told me about how monsters would get me if I was a bad boy was crap anywaythere is nothing to be afraid ofif God or some supernatural nasty didnt want me to cheat on my wife they would give me a sign or something Henry Irons thought.

Irons had finally managed to calm down when he got to the dumpster, rationalizing all of his actions. However, when he opened the lid to the dumpster he heard an inhuman scream, and then a human shaped filthy creature jumped out of the dumpster, and ran off into the night.

At that point Henry Irons decided that he should spend the rest of the night with his wife.

*****

Timothy Zimmerman stared at the strange woman who had been following him through Central Park that night.

Zimmerman usually went to the park every night to sell drugs. Tonight had been different however, for Zimmerman had felt as though he were being watched as soon as he entered the park. Fearful of police persecution Timothy had not made any sales that night and kept moving through Central Park. Hoping that this horrible feeling (that something was watching him) would abate.

Eventually he went to one of the more secluded areas to sample his own product. However, just as Timothy was about to inject himself with a needle a strange woman emerged from behind some bushes.

The first thing Zimmerman noticed about the woman was that she was absolutely filthy. Covered in old food and other trash. The next thing Timothy noticed was that she had dusky skin and gleaming eyes.
Then Zimmerman saw that the womans top was little more than rags, leaving one firm breast exposed. Timothy stared at her dark brown nipple and started to say something, but before he could the woman leapt upon him.

Timothy Zimmerman felt a brief burst of pain coming from his neck and then nothing at all.

*****

When Elisa Maza had first awoken as a vampire she had been guided by little more than instinct and hunger. However, as she continued to feed, she grew stronger and more and more of her memories returned.

Elisa felt like she now had a good idea of who she was (or at least who she had been). Moreover, now that so many of her memories had returned, Elisa Maza had a pretty good understanding of what she had been doing recently.

As Elisa stared down at Timothy Zimmermans rapidly cooling corpse she couldnt help asking herself, did he deserve to die?

Elisa had encountered Zimmerman as a detective, and while she knew he was a drug dealer, she also knew that he wasnt a particularly violent one and did it mainly to support his own habit.

And what of the others she had killed, they had been violent and brutish, but had they all deserved to die?

Elisa just wasnt sure.

Damnit Elisa yelled as she saw that her breast was exposed.

How long have my clothes been like that? the embarrassed Elisa wondered.

I cant keep living like this Maza thought.

Aside from the fact that she was getting sick of wearing rags and living in filth, Elisa knew that if she kept feeding like this it was only a matter of time before either the police or the Wyvern Clan caught up with her, and Elisa didnt want to fight either group.

However, she had to keep feeding. For all of her (newly remembered) moral reservations about killing, the hunger was too strong to deny.

In the short term Elisa Maza needed a source of blood that wouldnt keep dying on her, and a safe place to stay during the day.

Unfortunately the vampire wasnt sure where to find either of those things.

*****

Elisa Maza was far from stupid and it had taken her little time to figure that this place had the things she needed. As she pictured the female who was her target in her mind her hunger stirred.

There was something about the prospect of feeding off another Gargoyle that excited her in a way she couldnt explain.

Elisa couldnt bear to wait, with a mighty leap she jumped the over the gate leading into the grounds of Destine Manor.

*****

Demona watched the blurred form moving across her security monitors. The immortal Gargoyle knew that whatever she was watching from the central security station of Destine Manor was moving too fast to be human.

Or at least a normal human.

Which meant it must be one of her many non-human or superhuman enemies. The azure skinned, redheaded Gargoyle smiled wickedly as she reached for her laser rifle.

There was no one else near Destine Manor now. Which meant she could take her time hunting (and killing) this invader.

*****

The vampire hid behind a large statue of Angela as she watched her intended prey confidently stalk through the Manor grounds. Holding the large laser rifle in her clawed hands with ease.

Clearly Demona considered herself the hunter, not the prey.

As Elisa Maza gazed upon the arrogant azure predator she felt an unexpected surge of jealousy and rage. Demona had so many things Elisa had lost or had never had.

A daughters love.
Wealth.
The ability to conceive a child with the male she loved.
An eternally youthful, immortal body.

And Demona appreciated NONE of it. She remained bitter and hateful. Taking all of these wonderful things for granted.

Elisa hissed in rage as she looked upon the vengeful Gargoyle. Unfortunately for her, Demonas keen Gargoyle hearing picked up the sound and the redhead immediately shot at the source of the sound.

The vampire flung herself to the side as the statue of Angela exploded. Exposing herself to Demonas sight.

The immortal Gargoyle gazed at the filthy and feral looking vision of Elisa Maza before her in shock. Then Elisa hissed again, exposing her fangs, and Demona realized what she was dealing with.

Vampireshes a damn vampire the Gargoyle thought.

She shot at the vampire Elisa Maza again, but the undead predator dodged the blast (and only the lawn was damaged).

Elisa had never been this angry since becoming a vampire. She felt like charging up to Demona, taking the laser rifle from her, and beating her with it. However, Elisa knew if she tried that she would only get shot down.

As the dusky skinned vampire dodged blast after blast from the laser rifle (damaging Demonas courtyard further in the process) she realized how stupid it was to come here without a weapon. Demonas rifle gave her a huge advantage in this confrontation, while Elisa had no weapons.

Or did she?

As Elisa stared at the formidable looking azure Gargoyle (who was becoming increasingly angry over her inability to hit Elisa) an idea began to take shape in her mind.
In a violent movement the small vampire ripped off what remained of the clothes on her torso. Leaving her completely topless.

Then Elisa crumpled the filthy, molding rags into a ball and threw it at Demonas head as hard as she could. Using all of her inhuman strength.

Demona let out a muffled yelp as the disgusting rags hit her in the face. The horrid smell assaulting her sensitive nostrils and the filth getting into her wide eyes.

She grasped the filthy rags in her clawed hands and threw it from her. Then she began to gag. However Elisa didnt intend to give her time to recover.

While Demona had struggled with the dirty remains of Elisas burial clothes the former detective rushed to the Gargoyles side and grabbed the laser rifle. Pulling it out of Demonas grasp and throwing it as far away as she could.

Then she leapt on Demonas back, and put her legs around the females waist and her arms around the Gargoyles shoulders. The immortal known as The Demon only had time for a brief scream of rage before Elisa sank her sharp fangs deep into her neck.

The blood was just as delicious as Angelas, and seemed to strengthen and empower the vampire in a way nothing had before in her short existence. With her new found strength Elisa found it easy to hold onto Demona as the Gargoyle bucked and twisted in an attempt to throw her off (smacking Elisa with her tail all the while).

Elisa drank deeply, and it wasnt long before Demona lost the strength to stand and fell to the ground face first. But Maza continued to drink, too lost in bloodlust to even consider stopping.

Nonot to one of THEMnot to HER Demona thought as her lifeblood was literally drained away. But she lacked the strength to resist, and it was not long before the vampires greedy demands on her body stopped her heart too.

*****

If there was one species that Demona hated and feared as much as humans it was vampires. This was not surprising given the long history of conflict between Gargoyles and vampires.

Gargoyles were often targeted by vampires because most vampires found their blood more delicious and filling than human blood. As Gargoyles had become more and more rare, many vampires came to view them as exotic delicacies.

Moreover, there was another, more shameful reason that vampires often hunted Gargoyles. Due to some quirk of magic or biology Gargoyles that were transformed into vampires found it easy to remain active during the day and were not burned by the suns rays (the way vampires from human stock were). Instead the sunlight which had once nourished and strengthened Gargoyles when they were alive merely caused them agonizing pain.

This made Gargoyle vampires extremely dangerous, for they could not be killed by sunlight during the day like most of their kind. As a result, many of the most terrible vampires in history (recorded and otherwise) were from Gargoyle origins (which had only served to poison relations between humans and Gargoyles).

Gargoyles were also vulnerable to vampires in a way humans were not. For the fact that they turned to stone during the day meant that Gargoyles could only attack (or flee from) vampires at night. Thus Gargoyles could only confront vampires when the undead predators were at their strongest.

Due to all these factors, the Gargoyle species had suffered terribly at the hands of vampires. Over the long history of the Gargoyle race human beings had killed far more Gargoyles overall, but many of the worst Gargoyle massacres had been committed by vampires.

Entire Clans had been wiped out by undead blood suckers in search of a tasty treat or future comrade who could act during the day.

As Demona was revived by the power of her bond to her archenemy MacBeth, only to find herself chained down in her own dungeon, these thoughts all dominated her mind.

As well as a particularly horrifying realization. Not only was she the captive of a vampire, but this particular vampire had every reason to hate her.

*****

The elder vampire watched Destine Manor from the shadows.

It was against vampiric law to abandon your Child the way she had. But the ancient predator was a firm believer in the old ways.

For most of the vampire species existence it had been strictly survival of the fittest. Individual vampires looked out for themselves first and foremost, and large groups of vampires working together were virtually unheard of.

It was quite common for elder vampires to abandon the new vampires they created. Judging the new vampires unfit to survive if they could not manage on their own in the beginning.

However for the last millennia a new order had prevailed.

No longer did the most powerful and ruthless vampires dominate simply because they could, while weak undead perished. Instead a secret order of vampires now regulated relations between their kind. Especially that between elder vampire and Child (as vampires referred to the new vampires they created).

Under the existing laws a vampire was held responsible for all the young vampires it created. Abandoning your Child was simply not tolerated.

But the vampire who had transformed Elisa Maza and made the former detective her Child was powerful and confident enough to defy the existing order. If Elisa had not been able to survive on her own then her creator would have considered it no loss.

However, Elisa had done quite well.
Feeding herself for the first few weeks of her existence, managing to survive an encounter with the Wyvern Clan while sustaining only minor wounds, and now even capturing extremely formidable and valuable prey for her own use.

Yes, Elisa truly seemed to be proving herself worthy. Perhaps she would grant the Child her help after all.

*****

Detective Matt Bluestone waited impatiently in the veterinarians Waiting Room. Holding a restless Cagney in his lap as he sat on the uncomfortable bench.

His late partners cat had developed a rather worrying cough, so detective Bluestone had used his night off to take Cagney to the vet. Unfortunately tonight was a busy time for Doctor Sarah Gerald and her waiting room was packed. Moreover, Cagney and another cat in the waiting room known as Socks had taken an instant dislike to each other for some reason, and Matt and Sockss owner had already had to break up several fights between them.

Bluestone heaved a sigh of relief when he saw Socks and his owner go in to see the doctor ahead of him and Cagney. Hoping he wouldnt have to referee any more cat fights that night.

The next few minutes passed uneventfully, as Matt thought about the case he had been assigned to. Then his cell phone rang.

Keeping a firm grasp on Cagney (in case the cat felt like running off or starting any more fights) with one hand, Bluestone answered the phone.

Greetings Detective BluestoneI have some information given to me by Goliath I was told to relay to you stated the crisp, clear voice of industrialist David Xanatoss personal assistant, Owen.

Bluestone found that for all of his experience with the remarkable and supernatural, he could not believe Owens next words.

WHAT Matt exclaimed in disbelief. Drawing curious glances from the other people in the waiting room.

I said it appears that Elisa Maza is not truly deadand exists as one of the creatures commonly known as vampireswhich means she likely has a connection to the series of murders I believe you are investigating Owen said with almost mechanical precision.

Under other circumstances Matt Bluestone would want to know how David Xanatos and his people had been getting such detailed information on Police Department investigations. However such questions did not seem that important to Matt at the moment.

Owen said a few other things but Matt wasnt really listening. Eventually the personal assistant hung up and Bluestone was left (relatively) alone with his thoughts.

Detective Matt Bluestone wasnt sure of what he needed to do yet. However, he knew he wasnt going to like it.

*****

Elisa Maza had not felt this good since arising from her own grave.

After Elisa had chained up Demona in the shapechanging Gargoyles own dungeon, the vampire had gone to Demonas opulent bathroom. Then she had showered in the large bathtub.

Washing away the filth she had accumulated since becoming a vampire. Once she finished her shower the undead female had throw away the ragged remains of her burial garments (which had begun to rot).

Then she stood before the large silver bathroom mirror. Taking in her own image.

Now that she was naked and clean Elisas Mazas body essentially looked the way it had in life. Dusky skinned, with medium sized firm breasts, slender though muscular arms and legs, all a part of a small and deceptively weak looking frame.

Only the eyes set in her pretty face gave the game away. Glowing with an unearthly brilliance that was clearly not human.

This obvious sign of her inhumanity troubled Elisa, for now that she had drank of Demonas potent blood, virtually all of her memories had returned. And she truly remembered the human she had been.

As Elisa contemplated this the pleasure she had derived from cleansing her body and feeding off of Demona faded.

There was no denying what she had committed.

Murder.

She had not killed in self-defense or to defend others. Elisa had killed for no other reason than to satisfy her bestial hunger.

As Maza remembered the ideals and principals that had guided her, and realized just how badly she had violated them, Elisa felt a wave of self loathing engulf her.

However, the young vampire could also feel her hunger beginning to return. Elisa knew that she wouldnt be able to deny it for long.

Fortunately, this time she did not have to worry about her meal dying. For Demonas quick resurrection after Elisa had fed upon her proved that the vampire could drink as much of the immortal Gargoyles blood as she liked without worrying about killing Demona.

Nevertheless, as Elisa Maza went to the Destine Manor dungeon to get her food she couldnt help wondering if even Demona deserved to be reduced to this.

*****

The bond between a vampire Sire and its Child was powerful and complex. At least initially.

The Sire shared a psychic link with its Child from the moment the new vampire arose. This mental link allowed the Sire to read the thoughts and experience the emotions of its Child. Extremely powerful vampire Sires could also use this connection to telepathically dominate their Childs.

However, the psychic connection was strictly one way. Childs did not have a similar glimpse into their Sires minds. Moreover, as a Child grew more powerful the psychic link to its Sire faded away. This usually happened when a vampire was between one hundred to two hundred years old (which was why it was once common practice for vampire Sires to kill most of their Children before they reached age 100).

However, Elisa Maza knew none of this.
So she had no idea that her Sire was currently peering into her mind and sampling her emotions. Or how much what her Sire saw displeased her.

The vampire that had created Elisa Maza (as she currently existed) was disgusted by the sympathy that the young blood sucker felt for her victims. Moreover, she was worried by the fact that Elisa was having doubts about keeping Demona captive.

The elder vampire decided that her Child could not be trusted with such dangerous and valuable prey. She would have to take control of such matters directly.

*****

When Elisa Maza entered the dungeon she was wearing nothing but one of Dominique Destines red bathrobes. The fuzzy robe made the small vampire look even less threatening, and most uninformed observers would have considered the other occupant of the dungeon far more menacing.

After all, with her sharp claws and fangs, large muscles, and huge bat like wings, Demona seemed like a far more obvious threat. However, the Gargoyle herself knew differently.

Elisa Maza was now a vampire, and while that change came with many weaknesses, it also granted her powers beyond those of ordinary mortals. As well as an insatiable hunger for blood.

The vampire simply stared at Demona for a long time. Gazing at the elder female with an intensity she found disturbing.

Demona had a fairly good idea of what to expect from the detective Maza she had known. But how would the vampire Elisa react in comparison to that?

Demona truly had no idea. For there was so much she didnt know about vampires, and that ignorance frightened her more than she would ever admit.

But regardless of her fear, it was Demonas preference and natural inclination to always be on the offensive.

Thick titanium chains were affixed to Demonas arms and both of her ankles (the other ends of the chains beings secured to the wall behind her). These chains were too durable for even a Gargoyle as strong as Demona to break. However the chains were quite long, and once Demona saw that Elisa was not going to take any immediate action she leapt for the vampire. Landing on top of the undead female and grasping Elisas neck in her clawed hands.

Intent on literally popping the former humans head off if she could.

However, the attack seemed to spur Elisas own fury. The dusky skinned vampire hissed in rage then grabbed Demonas wrists and pulled the taloned hands from her neck.

Before the immortal Gargoyle could react Elisa kicked her in the stomach. Knocking Demona into the air and on her back. The azure sorceress could do little more than catch her breathe before the vampire was upon her.

Dazing the savage Gargoyle with two inhumanly strong blows to the head. Then tossing the azure immortal onto her side to leave her neck exposed.

The disoriented Demona could do little more than scream impotently as Elisa descended upon her and bit down into the soft flesh of her throat for the second time. She tried to punch the vampire in the head as her life blood drained away, but Elisa caught her fist with distressing ease.

Demona vainly tried to threaten or plead with the vampire to let her go in a faint (due to blood loss) voice. But Elisa Maza was too lost in rage and bloodlust to notice.

*****

Demona had a unique viewpoint regarding pain and injury.

She was often willing to endure virtually any wound or torment to achieve her goals not because she was fearless, but because experience had taught Demona that the spell that kept her ageless would heal virtually any injury (physically at least).

This was why after she endured her daily transformation from Gargoyle to human, and found that her wrists were still too large to escape her shackles, Demona was willing to severely injure herself to escape from her bonds.

For she knew that as a young vampire of human descent Elisa Maza would be virtually helpless during the day. Unable to even move without difficulty.

There would likely never be an easier time to kill the policewoman turned vampire than today.

Which was why Demona was willing to break her hands to escape her shackles.

AAAAAHHHHH! the pseudo human screamed in pain as she forcibly pulled her hands through her shackles. Breaking many of the bones in her wrists and fingers in the process.

After her hands were free Dominique Destine fell to the floor in a heap. Then she waited for what seemed like an eternity for the magic that preserved and regenerated her body to heal her hands.

GoodGood Destine said as she stared at the once again flawless skin of her arms.

The pseudo human took a deep breathe as she looked at the shackles around her ankles. Mentally gearing herself for what she knew would be the worst part.

This going to hurt like hell the Gargoyle turned human thought.

Then she ran away from the wall her chains were secured to as fast as she could. Just before the chains went taut she jumped as high and hard as possible.

As Dominique expected it was not the wall or the chains that gave, but rather her flesh. Her forward momentum was so great that instead of stopping her, the shackles around her ankles simply turned Dominiques feet into a bloody mass.

AAAHAARAAR the redheaded immortal screamed in agony as her mutilated body sailed through the air. Her scream abruptly cut off as she hit the wall of the dungeon with bone crushing impact.

This time Demona lost consciousness as she healed. It was several hours before she woke up.

But when she did, she was free.

Now to kill that undead bitch Dominique Destine thought maliciously as she walked out of her dungeon.

Demona searched through Destine Manor for over an hour. She finally found the vampire Elisa Maza in her bedroom on her mattress.

The bitch is SLEEPING IN MY BED Demona thought in outrage.

Elisa Maza was sprawled over Dominique Destines bed. Dressed in nothing but Dominiques red robe, her eyes wide and unseeing, and her form still and unmoving as a corpse.

The experienced Gargoyle turned human knew that the young vampire would never be more vulnerable than she was now. So Demona grabbed the spare laser cannon she kept behind her dresser.

It was harder to handle the heavy weapon with her weaker human body, but (though she grunted a bit) the pseudo human managed to put the laser cannon on the bed and place the muzzle of the weapon against Elisa Mazas neck.

The vampire did not react to the move. Too lost in her sleeplike state to notice such a minor sensation.

Not even a vampire can survive this Demona thought as she gleefully contemplated her planned decapitation.

The murderous redhead was just about to fire when something violently knocked her against the wall. In the process she lost her grip on the laser cannon and the weapon discharged into the ceiling as it clattered to the floor.

Demona hit her head badly when she struck the wall, and it took a moment for her to get her bearings. However, when she did the Gargoyle in human form stared at her attacker in shock.

It was a female Gargoyle.
Awake and active DURING THE DAY.

NOT ANOTHER DAMN VAMPIRE Demona screamed in fury.

Not simply a vampirebut the SIRE of the Child you would kill in her sleep.


The voice was feminine and throaty, with a sensuous power that would have stirred even the stubborn Demona if not for her anger and fear.

The body of her attacker was willowy and slender, with skin white as bone. She was slightly taller than Demona in her natural form and had long vivid blue hair.

But it was the Gargoyle vampires face that most captured Demonas attention. For the vampires facial features were covered by long snakelike tattoos that seemed to move and shift before Demonas eyes, and the undead Gargoyles eyes glowed a deep crimson despite the fact that the vampire appeared calm.

Who are you? the female known as Dominique Destine demanded as she unsteadily got to her feet.

The Gargoyle vampire smiled wickedly and then said in the same disturbingly sexy tone as she had used before.

AzumaSire to Elisa Mazaand your new Matriarch.

It wasnt hard for Demona to figure out that Azuma was simply using the word matriarch as a feminine form of the word MASTER. She was about to angrily deny that ANYONE was her master, when what felt like a massive explosion went off inside her head.

And she fell to the floor. Unconscious before her body touched the ground.

*****

Hudson should have been happy.
For the first time since he had began to suspect that Elisa Maza had been killed by vampires, he had finally found someone who not only believed him but also seemed to agree with his policy of wiping out all the vampires involved.

Including Elisa Maza.

But Hudsons problem was that he wasnt sure that he trusted the person who claimed to agree with him.

Of course Hudsonwe cant let some supernatural predator slaughter people right and left in MY cityeven if she does look like detective Maza said David Xanatos.

The wealthy businessman had asked Hudson to talk to him in his office after Hudson had told him about the attack on Angela. The Clan elder had only told Xanatos because he considered it quite likely that Elisa might attack Castle Wyvern itself. For vampires were known to have a preference for Gargoyle blood.

However, David Xanatos had surprised Hudson by being extremely interested in what the former Clan leader had to say. Now they were in the room that had once belonged to Princess Katherine and that Xanatos had much more recently converted into one of his many offices.

The old warrior was keenly aware of the fact that in this room he had once confided in a human leader who he couldnt fully trust yet whose hospitality the Clan was dependent on, and that he was in a similar position now.

But he had to do SOMETHING.
NO ONE else realized just how dangerous vampires were.

Ayethe beasts have to be destroyedthe best way to honor our Elisas memory is ta get rid of the abomination who wears her face and sullies her reputation Hudson said as calmly as he could as he stood before the desk David Xanatos was sitting at.

However monstrous they are the Steel Clan robots shouldnt have much trouble killing them once you lead them to the vampiresall WE have to do is find them David said confidently. Apparently not impressed by the supernatural power of the vampires.

Xanatos sounded fairly sincere when he said that the vampires needed to be destroyed. Yet Hudson couldnt help noticing how the fit middle aged humans eyes would sometimes light up when the undead predators were mentioned.

The elder Gargoyle had recently watched the popular vampire film DRACULA, and was reminded of the character Renfield. A human that (much like Xanatos) had been fascinated by vampires (and the immortality they represented).

Although Renfield had been more than willing to serve the undead predators, and Hudson couldnt imagine David Xanatos ever being content with such a role.

We would want to attack during the day after you located the nestjust so the vampires couldnt escapeand we would need to.

David Xanatos continued to verbally outline plans for an attack against the vampires, but Hudson couldnt listen.

Preoccupied as he was by the thought that in order to go through with this, he would not only have to trust David Xanatos (a man who in the past had used means both ruthless and radical in an attempt to secure immortality) but he would also have to BETRAY the trust of his Clan leader and old friend Goliath.

Hudson hated vampires with almost every fiber of his being. But he still couldnt bring himself to do that (at least not yet).

Sorry ladya have the right ideabut I cant go behind Goliaths back like this Hudson said in a subdued tone. Then he turned around and left the room.

As he watched Hudsons retreating form David Xanatos thought Hell be back.

*****

Demona awoke to a strange sound.
As she regained consciousness the Gargoyle realized it was whimpering. And that the sound was coming from the two figures on her bed.

The Gargoyle vampire Azuma was sitting on the bed with her feet on the floor. Kneeling between her legs was her Child Elisa Maza, who was whimpering as the elder vampire slowly stripped off the red robe that was her only covering.

But I thought that a vampire as young as Maza couldnt stay awake during the day Demona thought.

Azuma turned her head to look at the pseudo human, grinned and said they cannotnot without a little encouragement anyway.

Oh nocan that damn bitch read my mind Demona wondered.

YES.
Azuma answered in Demonas own mental voice.

The immortal foe of humanity wanted to kill the undead bony white Gargoyle for violating the sanctity of her mind. However she suspected that if she tried the telepathic elder vampire would simply knock her out again.

So Demona simply watched the Sire and Child, hoping they would give her an obvious opening to attack or escape. Setting aside her plans for revenge for the moment.

The female known during the day as Dominique Destine noticed that Elisas eyes were a milky white (as though she were blind) and that her movements were weak and stilted. Reminding Demona of a cripple or new born.

Dominique theorized that, assuming that Azuma hadnt severely injured her Child, Elisa was like this because her Sire was forcing her to operate during the day, and that Elisas normal capabilities would be restored at night.

The Gargoyle vampire nodded in Demonas direction as she was thinking this, which seemed to confirm her theory about the vampire Elisa Maza.

As for Azuma herself, now that Demona had a chance to observe her in more detail she noticed that the vampire Gargoyle had a piece of fine crimson clothe wrapped around her torso (her small shapely breasts showing clearly through the material). While a silver chain went around her waist, a crimson loin clothe attached to the front and back of it. However, when Demona tried to stare at Azumas face she encountered the same problem she had before.

She could see that the elder vampires facial features were surprisingly fine and pretty, but she still couldnt make out the details of the tattoo that seemed to move across Azumas face. No matter how hard Demona tried the details of the tattoo seemed to flee from her gaze.

The longer Demona looked the more colors and shapes she thought she could see in it. There was something hypnotic about the patterns shifting over Azumas bone white features, and she might have stared at the vampire Gargoyles face for hours if Azuma had not done something to divert her attention.

The undead female pushed her loin cloth to the side (over her left leg), exposing her white hairless mound in the process. Then she grasped the back of Elisa Mazas (who was nude once more) head and pressed it towards her delicate looking vaginal lips. Elisa seemed to have some idea of what was expected of her, and immediately began licking her Sires sex.

You vile pervert Demona burst out without thinking.

It wasnt the fact that they were both females or vampires that disgusted Demona. It was the fact that a Gargoyle of any kind would engage in sexual intimacy with a human of any kind in front of her.

Azuma merely laughed at the insult, and then said mockingly I wouldnt expect such prudishness from a female who seduced and married her archenemy for money.

How did you know that? the Gargoyle in human form exclaimed in shock.

Your mind is an open book to me sorceressalbeit not a very interesting one the telepathic undead Gargoyle said.

The thought that Azuma could just casually probe her mind and take her innermost secrets was too much for Demona. She screamed an obscene insult at the old vampire and dove for the laser cannon she had dropped near the bed earlier in the day.

Before the pseudo human could grasp the weapon though, she screamed in agony as the telepathic vampire psychically reached into her brain and stimulated her pain centers.

You need to understand childyou may be powerful, experienced, and cunning compared to mortal Gargoyles and humansbut compared to an elder female like me you are merely a weak and arrogant childfoolishly presuming that she can compete against her betters

As the vampire spoke she increased the intensity of the agony she was causing Demona. To the point that the pseudo human feared she would lose control of her bowels and piss upon the floor.

Stillyou have entertained meso I will show you one of the rewards for serving one of my kind well.

As Azuma spoke she decreased the agony she was causing Demona. It had reached the point of a dull throbbing in her skull when the vampire Gargoyle pushed Elisa Mazas head away from her sex.

She wasnt bad for a virgin at the art of feminine lovebut her skills could definitely use improvement Azuma thought as she fondled her swollen vaginal lips in front of Demona and Elisa Maza without self consciousness or shame.

Then without warning she lashed her Childs throat open with one of her finger claws.

The small dusky skinned vampire gasped and clutched her neck.

In her current state she was virtually blind and barely aware of her surroundings or what was going on. All she knew was that the person she instinctively trusted had just hurt her.

Azuma grabbed Elisa Maza by the shoulder and tossed the smaller vampire over to where Demona was. The pain in the pseudo humans head faded completely just as Elisa landed beside her. However Demona didnt have time to feel relieved for Azuma immediately sent her a telepathic command.

Drink.

Demona tried to resist the vampire Gargoyles psychic power with all her will. Breads of sweat appeared on her forehead as she attempted to defy the telepathic command.

But Azumas power was too strong, and Demona found herself bending her head down to Elisa Mazas throat. Then she began to lick up the blood coming from the wound in the vampires neck.

It was the bitter flavor of Gargoyle blood and Demona was initially disgusted when she realized that she was drinking the blood that Elisa had taken from her the previous night (her OWN blood). But right after her disgusting realization another sensation hit her.

It was a feeling of exhilaration and power beyond anything Demona had felt before. More powerful than the sensations she had gotten from any of the many drugs she had sampled during her long and adventurous life.

What is this the amazed sorceress wondered.

its the blood childwe drink it because its a conduit for lifebut once the water of life goes through our bodies it becomes a conduit for our powerwhy else would we share it with people we wish to join us.

Azuma explained as she saw the amazed expression on Demonas face and read the thoughts in her mind.

But Demona was barely listening. Too caught up in rush from the vampiric blood to pay attention.

Azuma no longer had to force the pseudo human to drink the vampire blood. For Demona was eagerly licking up all the blood coming from Elisas throat. Trying to consume all the drug like substance that she could.

The vampire she was feeding from could do little more than struggle weakly and whimper as more and more of the precious fluid leaked out of her body and was licked up by Demona.

Elisa Maza may have repeatedly beaten Demona in physical combat since becoming a vampire, but during the day her supernatural power and other capabilities were so diminished as to leave her virtually helpless.

So Demona was free to feed on as much vampire blood as she wanted.

I wonder if the arrogant fool would feed so freely if she knew that I would make her replace all the blood shes taking now tonight Azuma thought as she watched the prey feed off her intended predator.

*****

Even though he knew that his employer had never stopped lusting after immortality, Owen Burnett had still hoped that this day would never come.

The day David Xanatos would ask about vampires.

Why didnt you tell me that vampires existed Owen? the businessman asked from behind his desk. Owen Burnett stood in the same place in the office that Hudson had the night before as he answered.

The fey have an understanding with the governing body of vampiresthey have essentially agreed that they will stay out of our affairs if we stay out of theirsmoreover Lord Oberon himself has said that he does not want his Children consorting with the undead.

So can you discuss it now? Xanatos asked. Irritation evident in his voice.

Since you already know of itI dont believe that Lord Oberon himself would mind the blonde personal assistant said blandly.

Soare they really immortal? the dark haired businessman demanded. Getting to his main interest right away.

Wellmuch like the feythey are ageless and immune to all non-magical diseases and relatively difficult to kill Owen said in an exacting tone.

A good position to be in David said with a smile.

You need to understand sirthere are many downsides to becoming a vampirethe need for bloodan inability to eat normal foodthe loss of a mans capacity to father or a womans capacity to give birth to childrenand perhaps most importantlythe need to stay indoors and out of the sun everyday Owen explained. Hoping to disillusion Xanatos regarding any fantasies he had about becoming a vampire.

David Xanatos sighed.
Disappointed by his personal assistants assessment.

Ever since he had discovered that his wife and son shared the blood and power of the fey, and that because of that they might very well be virtually immortal, David had become interested in securing his own immortality again.

The ambitious businessman couldnt accept the fact that just because he didnt have any Royal fey blood in his veins he would be the only member of his immediate family to suffer the pangs of old age and death soon (relatively speaking).

Vampires do not age physicallyand they become more and more powerful as they get olderneverthelessit is not a fate I would wish on any friend or ally Owen said as gently as he could when he saw how upset his boss was.

Vampires dont appear to have any kind of immortality that I would be interested in the head of Xanatos Enterprises said in an even tone.

Well that may not be exactly true sire.

Owen had not wanted to mention this, but he felt it was his duty to be as informative and accurate as possible when reporting to his superior.

Oh Xanatos said.
As he scrutinized his personal assistant carefully.

By regularly feeding off a vampires blood for a prolonged period of time a human or Gargoyle can gain a measure of a vampires supernatural powerthis stops the aging process and gives the individual a small amount of the vampires tremendous strength and other supernatural abilitiessuch altered beings are known as Thralls or Bonded Servants Owen Burnett stated carefully.

Are these Bonded Servants undead? Xanatos asked quickly.

Nothey are alive and can eat and reproduce like normal humans and Gargoyleshowever they share a psychic link with the vampire who transformed them that allows that vampire to telepathically dominate themthis link never fades and appears to only grow stronger with timemoreover Bonded Servants are dependent on their Masters or Mistresss powerif the vampire who transformed a Thrall dies the Thrall will die as well Owen said. Determined to outline the drawbacks as well as the benefits of being a Bonded Servant.

So a Bonded Servant cannot survive without the vampire who turned him or heris the reverse true? Xanatos replied.

Novampires can survive the death of their Bonded Servantshoweverlosing a Thrall who has served a vampire for a long time is reportedly very painful and disorienting Owen answered.

David Xanatos stroked his beard and furrowed his brow as he thought through everything that Owen had just told him. Then he grinned as a wicked idea occurred to him.

Would it be possible for a Bonded Servant to retain their independence if they kept their vampire druggedor weak and compliant through more mystical means? David asked.

In theorybut it would probably only work with an extremely young and relatively weak vampirean old and powerful vampire would probably be too difficult to control for such an undertaking Owen answered doubtfully.

A vampire like Elisa Maza? Xanatos asked. More for confirmation than anything else.

Yes.

David Xanatos smiled at Owen Burnetts answer. More determined than ever to find the late detective Maza.

*****

When sundown hit New York City, two of the people most affected were in the main bedroom of Destine Manor. The other occupant of the room was also affected, though no who else there noticed.

Demona screamed in pain as the power of Pucks Gift made her revert to her natural form. Screeching in agony as muscles and bones shifted and wings and a tail sprouted from her torso.

Elisa Mazas change was less dramatic but no less important.

The young vampires eyes returned to her natural (though glowing) color, her ravaged throat healed, Elisas limbs regained their strength and power, and her mind cleared of the mental fog that had engulfed it all day.

Im going to rip off that bastards long ears for this Demona gasped as the transformation finished.

Of course the telepathic Azuma knew exactly what the old Gargoyle was referring to. Though Elisa Maza probably would have tried to figure out what the apparent non sequitur meant under other circumstances.

Demonas lips were still wet with vampire blood. Her head swimming with the vampiric power she had siphoned off of Elisa Maza for hours (up until sunset).

As for Elisa Maza herself, she was not interested in vengeance for being reduced to Demonas prey. She was too far gone in blood lust to be interested in something as abstract as revenge.

She knew only hunger.

After being drained of blood for a good portion of the day, her vampire body was desperate for nourishment. Sending one overpowering message to her mind.

FEED.

As Demona looked at the naked vampire she was disturbed by what she saw.

The former humans dusky skinned body trembled with need. While her eyes glowed more intensely than Demona had ever seen and a deep growl came from her healed throat.

But what really bothered Demona was the way Elisa was looking at her. She saw something close to, but much worse than lust.

From her resting place on Demonas bed the vampire Gargoyle Azuma watched avidly. The elder vampire had a soft spot in her heart for blood sports.

Elisa Maza gave an inhuman shriek and leapt towards Demona.

But this was different from the times that the young vampire and immortal Gargoyle had fought previously.

Demona was still full of the unholy power she had taken from Elisa Maza, and Elisa was far, far weaker.

Mazas hunger and fury were nearly boundless, but the bigger female was still stronger, and Demona was able to knock Elisa across the room using her tail with relative ease.

Demona leaped over to where the vampire had landed and tried to step on Elisas head with one of her large clawed feet. However, as the vampire saw the massive foot approaching she leaned her head up and bit it. As she felt the vampires sharp fangs sink deep into her flesh the immortal Gargoyle tried to jerk away.

Azuma laughed as Demona did a sort of weird hop while dragging the vampire by her foot. Then the Gargoyle overbalanced and fell on her back with an audible thud. The ancient azure sorceress finally managed to kick Elisa away with her other foot at that point, and leapt back to her feet (trying to put as little weight on her wounded foot as possible).

Demona tried to strike the dusky skinned female vampire with her tail again, but Elisa simply grabbed it this time with both hands and chomped down. Demona roared in pain and fury, grabbed Maza under both shoulders in a lightning move, and threw the smaller female towards the ceiling.

Elisa lost her grip on the Gargoyles tail as she was tossed threw the air, and hit the ceiling with stunning force. Demona caught the vampire as she fell down, holding the dazed Elisa in one hand. Then she punched the young vampire in the right shoulder as hard as she could. Using all of her vampirically enhanced Gargoyle strength against the joint.

Elisa Maza cried out in agony as the bones shattered. Crimson tears of pain running down her cheeks.

Nothis simply wont do Azuma thought.

Before Demona could continue her assault against the vampire Elisa Maza she felt an overpowering pain in her head. She tried to resist it, but the pain was too great.

She dropped Elisa and fell to her knees. The wounded and currently animalistic vampire whimpered and crawled away.

Azuma stood up and towered over the two wounded females. Gazing at Demona coldly.

It is not your place to maim your bettersI will not permit a weakling like you to kill my Child the elder vampire stated imperiously.

SHES THE WEAKING.I BEAT YOUR LITTLE CHILD Demona roared. Trying in vain to ignore the crippling pain.

Azuma sneered at Demonas defiance and replied icily no.it is you who is weak before our powerlet me show you just how much.

Demona felt an alien presence taking control of her body again. She tried to resist, but the agony Azuma was also causing her made that virtually impossible.

She ripped off her halter and lion clothe, displaying her beautiful blue body to the monstrously powerful vampire. Then she got on her hands and knees and lifted up her tail. Showing her sex to Azuma the way she would to a rutting mate.

Demona was mortified, the pose her body had been forced to take was unquestionably sexual and submissive. But she refused to cry or plead for mercy.

She wouldnt give the old vampire that satisfaction.

Nevertheless, she felt like crying out as Azumas mental commands tilted her head to one side. Baring her neck to the vampire Gargoyle.

Then the artificially induced pain ended, and Demona sighed in relief. But the feeling of relief faded as soon as the Gargoyle thought about WHY Azuma would have ended the agony.

Demona suddenly felt Azumas cold clawed hands running along her side. She wanted to look at the vampire, but she couldnt turn her head to do so. Then Azuma suddenly pinched one of Demonas large breasts, and the Gargoyle was unable to keep from crying out.

Azuma chuckled at Demonas reaction, and smacked the younger female on the ass for good measure.

Demona was practically seething with fury. She wanted to DESTROY Azuma for this humiliation. But she couldnt even turn her head to glare at the powerful vampire.

The unholy power that bound her was simply too strong.

There was a flicker of movement and then Demona saw Azumas bosom and the rest of the vampires torso out of the corner of her eye. She realized with a feeling of horror that it meant the Gargoyle vampires head was level with her neck now.

For all your power and schemes Demonathis is all you are to usall you will be from now onprey Azuma whispered into Demonas ear, lightly licking it as she did so.

The Gargoyle vampire sank her fangs into Demona at that point, drinking deeply of the immortals blood which was laced with the power of the fey. A moment later, the blood starved Elisa Maza did the same.

*****

Hudson employed his newly acquired reading skills to read through anything the Castle Wyvern Library had on vampires. Hoping he could find something in their pages that would give him an edge against Elisa Maza and whatever vampire had sired her.

His obsessed mind absorbed vampire facts, trivia, and rumors like a sponge. Desperately searching for the information that would allow him to find and best the vampires without resorting to Xanatoss offered help.

The Clan elder was alone in the Library. The rest of the Wyvern Clan (except for Bronx) was out on patrol.

The Gargoyle Beast went into the Library after Hudson had been in there for a few hours and tried to get the Gargoyles attention. However, Hudson uncharacteristically ignored Bronx and the Beast left after a few minutes.

AARRthis is useless Hudson cried in frustration as he threw the book he had been reading across the Library.

I simply canna do it by meselfI need help the frustrated Clan elder thought.

However, as Hudson went to pick up the discarded book, and saw the Volume on police procedures, it occurred to him that he had people other than the Clan and Xanatos he could call upon for help.

AyeIll call him Hudson decided.

*****