Anna sat in her favorite armchair, savoring the first sips of her morning coffee. The warm liquid flowed through her body, awakening her senses and preparing her for the day ahead. As she looked out the window, she couldn't help but be captivated by the bustling city outside. People hurriedly made their way to work, cars whizzed by, and the sounds of the city filled the air.
Phara approached her with her cell phone in hand. “Theo, fix it,” she said, her voice filled with a mix of determination and concern. She leaned in and lightly kissed Anna on the cheek before placing the phone in her hand. Anna turned on the device, her heart skipping a beat as she noticed the countless missed calls. One particular missed call caught her attention, causing her brows to furrow.
Phara noticed the distress on Anna's face and asked, “What is it?”
With a heavy sigh, Anna replied, “It's my sister. She called me yesterday.”
Curiosity piqued, Phara urged her to call Anastasia back. But Anna hesitated. “It's already morning. She must be resting for the day,” she said, her voice tinged with worry.
Just then, Theodore emerged from the bedroom, his eyes searching for his much-needed caffeine fix. He joined the conversation, urging Anna to make the call. “Just call her back, Anna,” he insisted.
Taking a deep breath, Anna dialed her sister's number. As Anastasia's voice filled the line, Anna's anxiety grew. “Can you and your partners come to Chicago?” her sister asked, her voice filled with a hint of desperation.
Anna's heart clenched. “What is wrong?” she pleaded, her voice trembling.
Anastasia paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts. “I will tell you when you arrive. I can send a plane to come and get you,” she finally replied.
Without hesitation, Anna agreed, “Okay, see you when we get there.”
Anastasia's voice softened. “I love you, Anna,” she said, her words filled with emotion.
Tears welled up in Anna's eyes as she whispered, “I love you too, bye.”
Hanging up the phone, Anna turned to face Phara and Theodore. “So, we're going to Chicago,” Phara stated, her voice a mix of excitement and concern.
“When do we leave?” Theodore asked, his eyes filled with determination.
Anna glanced at her watch. “The plane will be waiting for us at the airport in a few hours.”
A smile spread across Theodore's face. “We're flying private. That's so awesome!”
Phara nodded and said, “Well, let's get packed then.”
While Phara and Theodore rushed around, frantically packing their bags, Anna took her time. She couldn't help but wonder why Anastasia seemed so sad and worried on the phone. As she folded each piece of clothing and packed her essentials, her mind drifted to the unknown. Finally, with her bags packed, Anna was ushered out of the door by Phara and Theodore. They hailed an Uber and made their way to the airport, their anticipation growing with each passing moment.
As the Uber driver navigated through the city, he asked, “Which way?”
Anna's voice was steady as she replied, “Drive around to the back.”
The Uber driver obliged, and soon they arrived at the airport, being dropped off near a hangar. Anna led the way, entering a small luxury airport hangar, Phara and Theodore close behind her. A guard stationed next to the private lounge stopped them momentarily.
“Name,” the guard requested, his tone firm.
Anna confidently replied, “Anna Nádasdy, a party of three heading to Chicago, requested by Anastasia Báthory.”
The guard nodded, granting them entry into their own private lounge. He gestured for them to wait, informing them that it would take approximately an hour for their plane to be ready. As they settled into the plush lounge chairs, the weight of anticipation and unanswered questions hung in the air. Anna couldn't help but wonder what awaited them in Chicago, hoping that she would find the answers she desperately sought.
Theodore and Phara stood side by side, their eyes wide with awe as they took in the opulence of the luxurious airplane hangar. The polished floors reflected the gleaming aircraft that were parked in precise formation, as if waiting to whisk their privileged passengers away to far-off destinations. Anna, on the other hand, was lost in her own thoughts, pondering the urgency them going to Chicago at her sister Anastasia’s behest.
As Anna tried to unravel the puzzle in her mind, Theodore's keen senses led him to an enticing aroma wafting through the air. He turned to Anna with a mischievous grin and asked, “Anna, is this for us?”
Anna, her attention momentarily diverted from her thoughts, responded, “Yes, help yourself.”
Theodore's eyes gleamed with delight as he made a beeline toward the direction of the tantalizing scent. He found himself standing before a lavish buffet, laden with an array of delectable dishes that beckoned him to indulge. His plate quickly filled with a colorful assortment of culinary delights, his hunger momentarily forgotten.
Just as Theodore was about to dig into his sumptuous feast, a stewardess approached them with a professional smile. “Your bags are loaded up and we are ready to leave, whenever you are,” she informed them.
Theodore's heart sank as he reluctantly put down his plate, the anticipation of a leisurely meal dashed by the need to depart. The stewardess, sensing his disappointment, kindly offered, “You can finish your meal on the plane if you like.”
With a sigh, Theodore bid farewell to the enticing buffet and followed Anna towards the awaiting hangar. Phara, always appreciative of beauty, marveled at the grandeur of the private airplane that stood before them. Its sleek exterior and luxurious interior whispered tales of luxury and comfort.
Phara couldn't help but express her awe. “This is so beautiful,” she breathed.
Anna, her eyes glimmering with a mix of pride and nostalgia, replied, “Well, my sister always had a taste for the finer things in life.”
As they embarked on the extravagant plane, Anna couldn't help but wonder what awaited them in Chicago. She knew her sister had a knack for orchestrating elaborate plans to get her to visit, and this urgent summons only added to the mystery. Anna's thoughts drifted to Anastasia, her sister's enigmatic nature, and the deep sisterly bond they shared. Whatever awaited them in Chicago, Anna knew it would be a journey filled with intrigue and adventure.
Little did they know that this trip would not only unravel secrets and mysteries but also bring them closer as a trio, forging a bond that would withstand the test of time. As the plane soared into the sky, Theodore, Phara, and Anna fastened their seatbelts, ready to embark on a journey to Chicago.
***
In the dimly lit basement of the office building, rows of cells stretched out before Dr. Specker. Each one housed a vampire, their eyes filled with a predatory hunger that sent chills down his spine. Dr. Specker walked slowly, his footsteps echoing in the cold, damp space. His eyes stopped on a particular cell, where a beautiful blonde female vampire lay in a seemingly peaceful slumber.
Observing the scene, the Nurse couldn't help but question the doctor's fascination with this particular vampire. “Why are you so fond of this one?” she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.
Dr. Specker shook his head, denying any emotional attachment. “I'm not fond of her,” he replied, his voice distant. “But she holds the key to something much greater.”
He pulled out a small device from his pocket, handing it to the Nurse. “I am satisfied with the selection of vampires so far, but I need ones that are at least 100 years old. This device can detect their age.”
The Nurse nodded, understanding the doctor's intentions. “We will start using it tonight then,” she replied, holding the device tightly.
Dr. Specker felt an urgency within him. “No, use it now. Test them all. Dispose of anyone who's not at least a century old.”
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Perplexed, the Nurse questioned how to carry out such a task. Dr. Specker dismissed her concerns with a wave of his hand. “Just figure it out. And bring me the blonde female when she wakes up.”
The Nurse hesitated, worry etched on her face. “You shouldn't spend too much time with that vampire,” she warned, concern evident in her voice.
But Dr. Specker paid her no heed, his mind already drifting back to his research. He left the basement, ascending in the elevator to the floor that housed his lab. As he resumed his work, a mysterious woman silently entered the room, unnoticed by the doctor.
The woman approached him, her footsteps soft and deliberate. She gently rubbed his tense shoulders, her voice curious yet demanding. “What is taking you so long?” she inquired, her words laced with impatience.
Dr. Specker turned to face her, a glimmer of excitement in his eyes. “All great things take time,” he replied confidently. He motioned towards the microscope, showing her a sample of the vampire's blood and its incredible ability to regenerate human tissue cells.
Intrigued, the woman leaned in, studying the sample. “When do you think you'll be ready for human testing?” she asked, her tone expectant.
Dr. Specker hesitated, unsure of the timeline. “I'm not too sure. We've only just begun our research a month ago.”
The woman's expression hardened, her voice turning stern. “I will need a presentation for the investors in a week,” she stated firmly.
Dr. Specker felt a surge of panic. “That's impossible,” he protested, his voice filled with desperation.
Leaning in closer, the woman's voice turned cold. “Get it done, or I will find a doctor who can.”
With those words, the woman swiftly exited the lab, leaving Dr. Specker alone with his thoughts. Filled with a newfound determination, he returned his focus to the microscope, doubling his efforts to meet the woman's demanding deadline.
In the midst of his frantic work, the Nurse entered the lab, her eyes immediately drawn to the worried expression on Dr. Specker's face. Concerned, she inquired about the woman's visit.
Dr. Specker sighed, his voice tinged with urgency. “We must prepare for human testing,” he replied. “I will make a few calls, see what I can do.”
The Nurse paused at the threshold of the lab, casting a concerned glance back at Dr. Specker. The usually composed doctor seemed to be a bundle of nerves, his hands trembling as he worked at his workstation, surrounded by a sea of medical equipment and the ever-present microscope. Something was clearly weighing heavily on his mind.
Dr. Specker's voice crackled with a sense of urgency as he spoke. "Have the men focus solely on capturing vampires who are 100 years or older. We cannot afford to waste any more time. We must double our efforts."
The Nurse nodded, her expression serious. “Yes, sir,” she replied, her voice filled with determination.
But as Dr. Specker continued his work, his distress became more palpable. In his agitated state, he fumbled with a delicate specimen and watched helplessly as it slipped from his grasp, crashing to the floor and splattering its contents across the pristine tiles. It was the last of its kind, a precious sample lost.
Frustration mingled with despair in Dr. Specker's voice as he muttered, ”That was the last of that one.”
Seeing his distress, the Nurse hurried over and gently guided him to a nearby chair. “Take a moment to collect yourself, doctor. I will arrange to have more blood drawn from our captive. Just take deep breaths.”
Dr. Specker slowly sank into the chair, his hands trembling as he clutched the sides. The Nurse's calming presence drew the tension from his body, her voice soothing his troubled mind. It was a brief respite in the chaotic world they found themselves in. As the Nurse turned to exit the lab, her footsteps echoed down the corridor, a determined purpose in each stride. She made her way to the basement of the office building, where a group of vampires had been securely locked away. The dimly lit corridor seemed to hum with an otherworldly energy as she approached the massive iron door.
Taking a deep breath, the Nurse unlocked the door, revealing a row of cells filled with ancient vampires, their eyes glinting with a mix of resignation and defiance. They were beings of immense power and darkness, now reduced to prisoners of the very creatures they had once preyed upon.
With steady hands, the Nurse selected one of the oldest vampires, the beautiful blonde female Vampire. They locked eyes for a brief moment, each acknowledging the weight of their respective roles in this twisted dance between captor and captive. Leading the vampire back to the sterile lab, the Nurse's mind raced with a mix of determination and worry for Dr. Specker.
As the lab door closed behind them, plunging them into a world of cold steel and bright lights, the Nurse caught a glimpse of anger in the vampire's eyes. Dr. Specker stepped closer, holding a device designed to extract a sample of the vampire's precious blood. With precision and expertise, he placed it on her arm, swiftly withdrawing the crimson liquid.
“Take her back,” Dr. Specker commanded, his voice laced with a mixture of authority and caution. The Nurse's heart sank, knowing that the vampire's fate had already been sealed. And yet, a part of her couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the creature before her, trapped in this cruel dance between science and darkness.
***
Anastasia woke to the soft moonlight filtering through the curtains, casting a glow on the room. Beside her, Delilah stirred, her eyes fluttering open with a gentle smile. The sight of her wife's face filled Anastasia's heart with a sense of contentment and love.
Delilah's voice broke the silence, her excitement evident. “What time do you think your sister will come?”
Anastasia let out a small chuckle, knowing well Delilah's eagerness to meet her sister Anna. "I'm not sure, dear. You know Anna doesn't warm up to people easily.”
Delilah stood up, playfully tugging on Anastasia's arm, urging her out of bed. A mischievous smile adorned her face as she led Anastasia towards the bathroom. “But everyone loves me,” she declared, her confidence infectious.
As Anastasia brushed her teeth, she couldn't help but watch Delilah's wakeup routine with amusement. The way Delilah moved with grace and lightness, her energy filling the room, was a constant reminder of why Anastasia fell in love with her. Once dressed, Anastasia moved away from the bathroom as Delilah stepped into the shower, the sound of her cheerful singing filling the air. Anastasia leaned against the doorframe, a fond smile on her face. “I'll let you know when Anna arrives. But don't get your hopes up about becoming fast friends,” she teased.
Delilah's voice carried from inside the shower, barely affected by the water. ‘Oh, I'm sure we'll get along just fine. You underestimate my charm, my love.”
Anastasia laughed softly, shaking her head in amusement. As she made her way out of their apartment, she found Blake waiting for her, concern etched on his face.
“Good evening, Blake. What's wrong now?” Anastasia asked, already bracing herself for potential troubles.
Blake sighed, his gaze shifting uneasily. “The members of the coven have been talking. They say Anna travels with a werewolf.”
Anastasia's brow furrowed. “Why are they so interested in my sister's companions? Shouldn't we be more concerned about the witch she's with? I've heard she possesses great power.”
Blake nodded in agreement. “True, but werewolves are rarely seen. It's piqued their curiosity. Are they planning to stay in the coven?”
Anastasia shrugged, her expression indifferent. “That's for them to decide. We can't control their choices.”
As they entered the elevator, Anastasia felt a mix of anticipation and anxiety. The lounge area on the office floor was abuzz with activity, vampires and humans mingling together. Anastasia and Blake made their way through the crowd, heading towards her office.
“Bring me Nicole,” Anastasia instructed Blake once they reached her sanctuary.
Blake nodded and disappeared, returning moments later with Nicole. He left them alone, closing the door behind him. Nicole stepped closer, her eyes filled with a mixture of admiration and desire. In a sudden, impulsive moment, she leaned in and kissed Anastasia. Shocked, Anastasia instinctively pulled away.
“What are you doing?” Anastasia's voice trembled with confusion.
Nicole's voice was filled with apology. “I'm sorry, you're just so beautiful.”
Anastasia's eyes narrowed, her voice firm. “You do realize I am married, don't you?”
Nicole's gaze dropped, her voice barely audible. “Yes, but Delilah...”
Anastasia's heart skipped a beat, her mind racing to make sense of Nicole's words. “What about Delilah?”
But before Nicole could respond, she quickly changed the subject, holding her neck towards Anastasia. Instinctively, Anastasia questioned her motives, but soon found herself succumbing to her hunger. She fed from Nicole as she always did, the taste of blood mingling with the confusion and unease that now clouded her thoughts. As Nicole left her office, Anastasia was left alone, her mind consumed with a whirlwind of emotions. The impending arrival of her sister Anna and the revelations of the day left her feeling both anticipation and trepidation.
Moments later, Blake enters Anastasia's office, finding her at her desk, frantically preparing the information for her sister. Anastasia's hands tremble as she arranges the papers, her mind filled with a mix of nervousness and anticipation.
Startled by Anastasia's accidental gesture, Blake rushes over to assist her, their eyes meeting briefly. Concern etches his face as he asks, “Are you okay?”
Anastasia takes a deep breath, attempting to steady her trembling hands. “I... I haven't seen my sister in 10 years,” she confesses, her voice filled with a mixture of longing and apprehension.
Blake nods understandingly. “Well, at least you still have family left. Not many vampires have that luxury,” he remarks, his voice laced with a touch of sympathy.
Anastasia gazes into the distance, lost in her memories. “For the longest time, it was just me and Anna,” she begins, her voice tinged with a hint of nostalgia. “I remember the day she was born, my mother was too preoccupied with her own interests, and my other siblings left as soon as they could. But Anna... she wouldn't leave without me. At first, I took care of her, but as time went on, she took care of me too. We were each other's strength, our bond unbreakable.”
Blake's curiosity piques. “Most stories about your sister say she is not so nice,” he says cautiously, not wanting to offend.
Anastasia's expression softens, her lips curling into a bittersweet smile. “Ah, yes. That reputation,” she sighs. “It stems from her ex-husband, who happened to be a vampire. But mostly, it's because of our mother. She despises vampires, you see.”
Blake's eyes widen in confusion. “But... I thought Anna was a vampire too,” he utters, his voice betraying his bewilderment.
Anastasia shakes her head, her eyes filled with a mix of sorrow and understanding. “When my mother allowed herself to be turned into a vampire, she was already pregnant with Anna. My sister is a hybrid, not fully human or vampire. She doesn't require a lot of blood to survive, and she can walk in the sunlight.”
Blake's mind races with newfound knowledge, his perception of Anna shifting with each passing word. “I never knew that about Anna,” he admits, his voice filled with both surprise and curiosity.
Anastasia lets out a soft chuckle. “Well, there's much more to Anna than meets the eye,” she says, her tone filled with a mix of pride and fondness. “But for now, let's focus on preparing the information for her. We have a lot to catch up on.”
Together, they resume their task, arranging the papers meticulously, their thoughts filled with hope, apprehension, and the promise of a long-awaited reunion. As they work side by side, a sense of determination fills the room, fueled by their shared desire to find the missing members of Anastasia's coven and the hope that Anna will be their guiding light in this dark and treacherous journey.