by K A HAMBLY
‘You've got to; we can't have the human race walking around like zombies for fuck's sake,’ Stride said.
‘Where are we going?’ Draven asked
‘Stride needs to go back to his place,’ Blaze said.
‘What's up Stride?’ I asked
‘I thought I'd do my bit and get some rifles to shoot the bastards.’
‘Well, we've only got so much time. They know we have to be there, it's our only chance. If not, those people out there on their way to celebrate Halloween right now, are not gonna know what hit them,’ Blaze said.
‘Come-on you lot,’ Stride ordered. ‘Make sure Draven is covered, we don't want him toasted.’
‘Now look, this is probably the only chance we're going get, so let's work out what we're going do later.’
‘Do you know what part of Central Park they'll be at?’ April said
‘Yes by the monument,’ Draven said
‘What about Ryder? Whose side is he on tonight?’
‘I don't really know. I think he feels obligated to Jimmy. I just hope he has some of my Father’s wisdom in him though. I see he has your determination Jyrki.’
‘If he has your strength and he's on our side then that would be even better, but he's a half breed, so why can't he walk in daylight either?’ I said.
‘The curse is passed from parent to child, no matter if he's a half breed or not, he still has it in him.’
‘Look, I need to know, when do I have to recite this from the book?’ April asked.
‘Once I've killed Jimmy, I believe. The prophecy will end then, hopefully the Ankh should go back to Mardok, and never sees the light of day again, pardon the pun.’
‘I wonder if these wolves can be killed by bullets,’ Stride asked, wielding a gun in the air.
‘I don't think it's going to be as simple as that somehow,’ Blaze said
‘Nor me.’ I said, pouring a drink.
‘The only way to kill them is with the sword, that's the way for all immortal beings,’ Draven said.
‘Then how did Ryder kill the clan?’ April asked
‘Yeah that’s a good question, how did he? It never really occurred to me until now. That's probably why the prophet couldn't foresee any of this sooner,’ I said.
‘I think I know how.’ Draven said ‘I gave his mother a piece of the broken blade. She did not question my motives, which did not really surprise me if I am honest. I said to her if ever I looked any different to her, she was to use it. I’m so sorry Jyrki.’
‘It was one thing to leave the compound but to get involved with a human, and give her something as precious as that, eh… I just can’t fucking believe you,’ I said.
‘Well in some way it's a good bloody job the mother didn't use it, or we’d be in bigger shite right now.’ Stride said.
‘Did she know you were a vampire Draven?’ April asked
‘I think she did, in her own way. Her family was from a long line of Gypsies.’
‘Now then, we've only got about 6 hours. What are we gonna do?’
‘Oh hell, the band is probably getting ready at the venue, what am I gonna tell them?’ Blaze said
‘Just tell them an emergency has cropped up, but we will be there,’ I said.
Blaze went outside to phone the band.
‘Jyrki, can I talk with you a moment, in private?’ April said, taking me by surprise.
‘Yeah, is there anything wrong?’
‘No, come here,’ she said
We walked outside and I could sense she was very nervous.
‘Jyrki, I know we've only known each other a while, and I know you are a vampire, not that it really matters to me, um,’ she looked embarrassed and turned away. ‘Just in case anything should happen to you tonight, I wanted you to know that I love you. I really do.’
She loves me, this freak of nature. I took her hand and pulled her close to me. It was not that I couldn't say those words back, I wanted to. A part of me was scared to do so.
I caressed her warm, red stained cheek and smiled. She knew I loved her too. I held her in an embrace for a few minutes, until Blaze came around the corner.
‘Er is everything ok?' he said with a snide grin.
‘Um,’ I looked at April.
‘It's okay man I'm not gonna be mad, in fact I saw this coming. I couldn't be happier for you both.’
‘Really?’ April said ‘You are happy about this? You didn’t take to my last boyfriend, and he was a lawyer, but it’s okay for me to date a vampire?’
‘Of course sis, whatever makes you happy, Lawyers are worse bloodsuckers than any Vampire any way.’
He walked back into the warehouse and April rested her head against my chest.
‘Why is he so protective, I mean it’s not so hard to see why?’
‘Because our mother walked out on us when he was fifteen, I was 12.’ Her voice began to tremble and she started to cry. ‘Our father was away working most of the time and we were left to fend for ourselves. I think Blaze took it upon himself to be the man of the house.’
CHAPTER THIRTY-TWO
Her love for me was more than I could have hoped for, or more than I felt I deserved. It was going to be a great comfort to me when the time came to face the wolves of the Apocalypse.
At least if anything happened to me I knew I was worthy of being loved despite my vicious past. A satisfied smile etched across my face as I watched her walk back into the warehouse. Whatever evil bound these hounds to the lowest pits of hell was surely going to feel my wrath.
‘Draven!’ I yelled.
The sun was drifting quickly behind the horizon. I turned around to watch it set to the west of the Manhattan skyline, which might well be for the last time with my own eyes. A deep sadness came over me when I remembered what the gypsy woman had told me in Helsinki. I so hoped I wouldn't have sacrificed anything or anyone for my only chance at being human.
‘Brother, what's weighing on your mind?’ Draven asked.
I was hesitant to say anything. I looked out onto the water that was now rapidly changing from a warm orange to a darker blue. I shook my head in despair. ‘It's just something I was told a long time ago. I don’t really want to bother you with it.’
‘Just talk to me, let me help.’
‘Tonight, there will be a sacrifice for my freedom. I have no idea what. I was told this by the old gypsy woman back home in Helsinki.’
‘That's what's bothering you? Jyrki, you can't let the ramblings of an old fortune teller overshadow the importance of what tonight means, and not just for us, but for every being on this earth.’
‘But I can trust the ramblings of an ancient prophet?’
‘That has more credential and you know it.’
The sun was now completely gone from view and the city lights flickered on in succession.
‘You're right, I know, I guess I needed some reassurance. So, er, are we both going to tackle this beast then? In full vampire? It’ll be just like the old days.’
‘You don't think I'm going to let my little brother save the world all on his own do you? And take all the credit,’ he laughed. ‘Of course I'm going to help. So er, what's the deal with you and April?’
I beamed a toothy smile at Draven.
‘She is everything to me. The reason why I want a shot at being human, so then I can love her how she deserves to be loved. I've spent so long on my own and when I finally find someone that loves me for me, no matter what, it all could be just washed away just as quickly as it came.’
‘Don't think like that. We will defeat him no matter what it takes. If father heard you speak like that now, you'd know what he'd say?'
‘I think you meant to say, what he'd do.’
Draven laughed.
‘Most definitely. The amount of times he has picked me up and slung me half way across the forest for being disobedient.’
‘Yes, I remember those days like they were yesterday. Do you ever wonder where he is now?’
�
��Oh yeah.’ he sighed, ‘but these days I do not care to ponder on life's little mysteries. It's the now Jyrki, that's all you should be focused on. Maybe the answers are staring us in the face, maybe he is a touch of sunlight that trickles along the water, or maybe he is up there, a flickering of starlight. If things don't go as planned, I just want you to know, it was great to find you again after all this time. Come here,’ he said, holding me in an embrace. ‘Are you okay? Now, come on let's get this bloody show on the road. I feel like tearing some limbs off tonight,’ he said.
‘You haven't changed at all bro.’
‘Huh, are you sure about that?’ he said, looking at his clothes. ‘I've spent most my time down the filthy sewers.’
‘Blaze, how did it go with the band? Are they alright?’
‘Yeah man, we're on around ten, that's if we make it.’
‘I'm sure we will, have a little faith in me.’
‘It's time.’
‘Randulphr? What are you doing here?’
‘I thought it would be best to come here for a talk.’
‘A talk? About what? I'm about to face a bunch of hounds from hell, and you want to talk, oh look I’m sorry, I’m under a lot of pressure right now.’
‘That’s quite alright. Mardok sent me.’
‘Mardok?’ April said. 'Isn't he the prophet?’
‘Yes, my dear lady.’
‘Well, why can't he tell us what's going to happen?’
‘It is not wise to speak of the future before it has happened, despite what others think.’
‘So why was the prophecy written?’
‘The prophecy is what it is, mere insights into the future, regard them as warnings to steer you on another path, but sometimes one's path is carved out long before they were ever born. Like Jyrki here. Tonight is the night where thousands of years of ancient secrets are about to be exposed that if, you don't stop them first.’
‘Which will be the best way to attack them?’ Blaze asked
‘Hm, well the throat is a good choice. If you can put the blade through his neck and sever his head you might just stand a chance. It also goes for vampires. But, what I'm really here to discuss is Ryder. We have some concern over whether or not he will take their side. Mardok cannot foresee anything, so Jyrki I’m sorry but more than likely you will have to fight him.’
‘And the Ankh cannot protect me?’
‘No Jyrki, some things just cannot be overwritten. It has done its job thus far.’
‘And what if Jyrki can't defeat him?’ Stride asked, ever the pessimist.
‘Then the thin veil that shields this reality from the darkness will be broken. The humans will become hosts for the demons and life here on earth will never be the same again.’
‘What sick bastards!’ Stride yelled
‘Yeah, so come on then. I think we'd better show up before they start attacking people!’ Blaze said.
‘Slow down boy,’ Stride said
‘Do you have the book?’ Randulphr asked.
‘Yes, we do.’
‘Then keep it safe, and under no circumstances are you to let it out of your sight. At midnight tonight, it will all be over with so make sure that the spell is recited at the first cut with the blade.’
‘Why, what will happen?’ I asked
‘Because Jyrki, they are immortal and this spell is one of the only things which can send them back to where they came from. There is another way though, and that is with the sword. Their blood is precious, like yours. I will tell you something although I’m not really supposed to, but in order for you to understand, I feel it is now necessary. At the very beginning of time, demons roamed the earth. They were its inhabitants for such a long time and it was only when humans began to evolve the war between hell and earth emerged. A battle for possession of the earth evolved and is continuing to this day. The ancients, as we call them forged a sword, which happens to be the predecessor of the one you hold. It is a very mysterious and sacred sword. Did you also know, the ancient God’s your ancestors worshipped once walked the earth, but now reside on an ethereal plane, just like the place you visited in Egypt? Now, Jafar has opened the gates of hell once again and its battle continues, but tonight is the night when it must come to an end one way or the other, as Halloween night is when the veil weakens between their world and this one. You are truly a human Jyrki, but it took an extremely powerful person to bring about the curse which we have protected for millions of years.’
Everyone stood silently outside the warehouse. Even I found it so difficult to take in.
‘So, if I don’t kill them tonight, it will be like before?’
‘Yes, humans will become hosts for these dark spirits. This is also the reason why you had to stay hidden to protect the secrets, until the time came for you to do what you were born to do.’
‘Shit, that was heavy. Let us all have a scotch for good luck then,’ Stride said. ‘Come on, gather around.’
‘Now, listen. Raise your glasses in a toast. To friends. Whatever tonight brings, I will still be proud to say that I am glad my father saw what he did that day, because I've never would have met the best bunch of people, and err...Vampires,’ he laughed ‘and I consider every one of you as family. Let's kick these bastards’ butts tonight and hope the Gods are smiling down on the human race.’
‘Hear hear.’
‘Er, I'd like to say something,’ Blaze said. ‘If I knew what I was talking to that night, I'd never would've invited you back to the party...Err, no I’m kidding. Jyrki, you're my best mate and I have every faith in you tonight, best of luck buddy.’
‘Thanks. Y'know, back home in Finland, I never thought it was possible I could have friends, let alone live the way I have for the past month. It’s been an unforgettable experience. I will do my damnedest tonight for you all.’
‘With my help bro.’
‘And mine,’ April said
I held her hand and smiled.
‘So, are we ready?’ Randulphr asked
‘Hell yeah!’
CHAPTER THIRTY-THREE
‘Central Park, here we fucking come!’ Draven yelled, as we walked back into the warehouse.
‘Are you two going out in your vampire costume? It is Halloween,’ Stride sniggered. I could see he was half cut on the Scotch again, but tonight of all nights I did not blame him.
‘Of course, but the question is, are you ready to watch a horror show?’ I stopped what I was saying; realising April was sitting on the couch.
Shit, why did my mouth have a tendency to run away with me. ‘Um, I didn't mean...’
‘It's fine; Don’t forget I've seen the real you before haven't I?’
‘I know, it’s just…well, you know, we’ve murdered people before and…’
‘None of that matters anymore. You are about to repay your debts tonight by facing these things, so that the world will wake up tomorrow and carry on as normal. I believe in you alright, we all do.’
She got up from her seat and walked over towards me. She wrapped her arms around my waist and rested her head onto my chest. I looked over to where Blaze was standing by the cabinet, pouring himself a drink. He raised his glass to me and smiled. I did not want this moment to end, but I could see Draven was getting impatient.
‘Hey Draven, did you fetch the sword from Blaze's place?’
‘Yes, it's here,’ he said. He pulled open his long brown coat and tapped the handle of the sword attached to his belt. ‘It's safe, don't worry.’
‘Out of interest, why did you give me the sword? Did you know about any of this?’
‘Not really. Father asked me to give it to you for safe keeping the day he came back from the woods with you. He probably knew more than he ever let on to us.’
‘Yeah, why doesn’t that surprise me?’
‘Er, guys I hate to break up the party but um…’ Stride said, as he checked his watch. ‘It's almost nine. Are you ready?’
‘We have no choice to be,’ I replied.
> ‘We'll take the van so far, alright? Just across the Brooklyn Bridge to Time Square,’ Blaze said.
‘That’ll be fine.’
‘We should get going,’ April said. Looking little anxious. ‘I want to get this over with, I can’t stand the worrying. What if they have entered our world already?’
‘Not possible, it is stated quite clearly in the prophecy. I know of no reason why that should change, so leave the worrying to us, alright?’ Draven assured her.
‘Ok, I’ll just get the book.’
‘Let's just get in the van then,’ Stride said, as he grabbed his rifle that was hanging on the wall. It was not going to be much use, but I did not want to dash his hopes right now.
I stood by the doorway, watching all my friends scramble about around me. The burden was now almost too much.
I flicked off the light switch and closed the door behind me.
We must have been going at least eighty miles an hour across the bridge. I sat back against the van with a mixture of dark thoughts and feelings that I tried to suppress. It was too difficult to speak and so for the journey I chose to remain quiet and calm. I knew when I would get there I would be on top form. It was the waiting around I could not deal with.
I was glad the guys respected that.
The van began to slow down.
Blaze pulled on the brake and turned the ignition off. Nobody said anything for a minute or two.
‘It’s not far to walk to the park from here, It’ll give us some time to take a breather,’ Blaze said.
‘Where are we meant to go in the park anyway? I can’t remember being told.’
‘Bethesda Terrace,’ Stride said, as he checked the rifle for bullets.
‘Why there?’
‘It's serving as a portal tonight for the undead and all the evil,' he said. ‘I asked that bloody wolf since nobody else did.’
‘C'mon then, let’s get moving,’ Draven huffed.
His patience was wearing thin again, as it always did when he was about to face a fight. He pulled open the side door of the van and jumped out.
We walked silently along the sidewalk past all the Halloween celebrations taking place outside the bars and clubs.
