At First Sight (Persephonii Waters Book 1)

by Melanie Brown

  Ready and waiting at the car, Sebastian opened the door for Persephonii, who paused to look back over the chaotic scene, still bustling with people. Now that the investigation was over, both parties were wondering what their next steps would be.

  The Investigator was the first to voice his thoughts. "Now that the investigation is over, we will be out of your hair as soon as possible." Sebastian's hand glided her into the back seat of the car, where she would have just fallen in.

  "There's no hurry, you're welcome to stay as long as you like." Smiling up at Sebastian through her wince at her tail bone meeting the seat; it was the response he desperately wanted to hear.

  "I'm glad to hear it." He paused, not wanting to shut the car door just yet, even though he would be riding with her.

  Standing behind him watching the whole thing, were Alin and Kaleb, the later whose stage whisper was clearly heard over the surrounding noise.

  "Ask her out already..." Toma took Kaleb out before he could continue his sentence, nearly throwing him towards the second car. Sebastian calmly closed the door, and stiffly walked to the other side of the car, where he did nothing more than slide into his seat. Persephonii glanced back out the window, to Alin who was smiling back at her.

  The ensuing conversation during the car ride had been sluggish, but was now rife with awkwardness. It was surprising to see the usually calm man so out of his element.

  Instead of dragging things out even more, Persephonii, for once, dove in feet first. "What are your plans for Christmas Eve?"

  Percy's Quick Guide

  to understanding the Supernatural.

  Glossary of Terms

  Percy says: "It is better to understand the meanings behind certain common terms than try to remember all of the intricate vocabulary."

  Para: Abbreviated form, a term used for anything not human. Often used in place of and standing in for Paranormal or Preternatural.

  Preternatural: Referring to anything outside of the natural or normal order of things. Refers to things or events that seem outside of human scope or nature. Often used to describe things that cannot be explained by science.

  Paranormal: Used interchangeably with Preternatural.

  Again referring to the very strange and not able to be explained by what scientists know about nature and the world

  Supernatural: Though less used as it has been recently replaced by the term Para; unable to be explained by science or the laws of nature; of, relating to, or seeming to come from magic, a god, etc.

  The Lore:

  The Lore: The cumulative knowledge, collected throughout time that represents everything known about the Humans, Kindred and Others.

  Lore Keepers: Individuals gifted and/or trained to collect and preserve the vast amounts of information, books, artifacts, including being orators, and scholars, The keepers help accommodate and update the Lore. A combination of librarian, scientist and monk-like warrior.

  Percy says: "Lore keepers will always help those seeking aid, but you may not always like what they have to say. Keep in mind that once you betray a Keeper's trust, the whole of the Keeper network is closed to you."

  The Kindred:

  Kindred: Refers to two categories of preternatural species. The most basic categorization within the Lore.

  Greater Kindred: Refers to three subtypes of Kindred. Set apart by their use of logic, intellect and skills, generally those who choose order over chaos.

  1. Those that can be categorized as Human or were once human.

  2. Those that can take human form, at least partially. Enough to interact with humans.

  3. Those that cannot take human form, but show superior intelligence, decision making skills and higher emotional functions.

  Lesser Kindred: Refers to all those who rely primarily on Instinct and basic intelligence. Many have a pack like or hive-like mind. Tend to create chaos.

  Percy says: "Though the Lamia can take a partial human form, it has been classified as a lesser kindred as it survives on Instinct and the fulfillment of base hungers. Not to be confused with the Naga, a cousin species to the Lamia, which has its own culture and was once revered amongst ancient Asian civilizations."

  Others

  Other: the term used to categorize those that fall in between or in neither category. Often referring to undiscovered species or those who live mainly outside of human dimensions.

  The dimensional rifts, called 'Gates' or 'Doors' are hidden around the world. Countless Gates reside inside other pocket dimensions, many are guarded by fierce protectors and should be avoided where possible.

  Percy says: "Others are rare and will hopefully stay so. Apart from the science, physics and philosophical debates, Others generally live their live outside the scope of humanity or human law and like it there. It's humanities job to leave them well enough alone."

  Greater Kindred:

  A few of the main players you will see out in the field.

  Wyr: The term used to describe those infected with the Lycanthrope Virus.

  Though in theory, there are as many different species of Wyr as there are species on the earth, the predominate Wyr species tend to be more familiar in nature including; the wolf, dog, fox and lastly the Bear.

  Other more exotic Wyr-have been identified including Wyr-dragons, not to be mistaken with full blooded dragons. But like their more ancient counterparts, they prefer to live in solitude and anonymity.

  Wyr numbers are limited by species. Those with a less communicable virus, like the Wyr-wolf, also have a more survivable version of the transformation processes, but many do not survive the initial physical attacks.

  Numbers of certain Wyr-groups are low for good reason. Like certain species such as the Wyr-snakes, a few of which are known to be poisonous. The more contagious the strain, usually the lower the population.

  Percy says: "In other words, you are more likely to survive an attack from a wolf, and come out still human than you are to come out of an altercation with a Wyr-tiger, where a mere lick might be enough to transmit the virus."

  The L.V virus is contagious only through the transfer of bodily fluids. However, contamination has been known to occur. The virus is advanced and changes the host on a complete cellular level. Each strain had its unique variables, strengths and weaknesses. But all have an allergic reaction to silver.

  Reactions to silver manifests like burns, the longer the contact, or the higher the purity of the silver, the more severe the burn.

  Percy says: "Silver poising, adding silver powers or distilled silver water to drinking sources has been a tactic used in Anti-Wyr attacks for decades. Though in recent years this form of attack has diminished as continued silver exposure also negatively effects humans."

  Basic Terms for Wyr:

  Percy says: "Wyr for the most part have their own sub-culture and hierarchies. Knowing a few terms might help you navigate the tense waters."

  The general form of hierarchy is a main leader, followed by their heir or Prime, which would take over in the case that the leader was killed. Followed then by the Seconds, which are similar to Enforcers, which protect the leader and Prime and who, should both fall, would then lead the group.

  Enforcers: A universal staple to Wyr societies, they are both body guards and law enforcement. Often times at least one Second will also hold the position of Enforcer.

  Wolf: lupine, canine. groups: Pack.

  Leader is usually male, ranked Alpha, followed by his Prime, and two seconds. Lesser Female leader is known as Luna. Usually the mate of the Alpha.

  Fox: vulpine. groups: Skulk.

  Matriarchal, Leader is usually Female known as

  Vixen. Secession by Heirs.

  Dog: canine. group: Cry.

  Traditional pack hierarchy.

  Bear: ursine. group; Sleuth.

  Co-lead, one of the few Wyr-species to be lead by a male and female pair, usually mated. Male leader is Ur and female is Ursa. Secession by Heirs.

  Vampyre:

&
nbsp; Vampyre: or shorter Vamp. The Term used to refer to those Turned by the Human Vampyre Virus. or H.V.V.

  The H.V. Virus is not as contagious as the Lycanthrope virus. Instead transmission or Turning must be deliberate and done by a single vampyre known as a Maker.

  Percy says: "Though there is something to be said about the scientific side of the Turning process, which we are learning about from those few Vampyres who are willing to work with scientists. There is an inexplicable bond that is formed between Maker and Chylde. It is quite clear after so many failed attempts by the Rogue Maker that this supernatural 'quality' that calls only some to become Makers is a key factor in the success of the Turning and thus, their Chyldren."

  Turning: Refers to the entire process that converts a human into a Vampyre by way of the H.V Virus. Though only a few key factors are known to the outside world, the Turning of a human is an intimate and serious procedure. Only those who have been Turned know its full extent.

  Sire: The generational and hierarchical term for a Maker's Maker. Usually used when addressing a Vampyre's linage.

  Makers: Those vampyre powerful enough to Turn a Human. Though not every Vampyre has the strength or control to see a Turning through, every vampyre had the potential to be a Maker. A Vampyre earns the title of Maker with their first successful Turning of a human.

  Chylde: The term used to describe the bond between a Maker and the Humans they Turn. Rarely romantic, the Maker-Chylde bond is much like a parent-child bond. In the first decade or so of Turning the Chylde will be heavily influenced by the bond with their Maker. At times the bond is even able to overcome the Chylde's conscious thoughts and Instinct.

  Percy says: "Not all Chyldren stay with their Makers, some move on to greener pastures or fall out of favor. For newly made Chyldren the bond between Maker and Chylde is intense, if a Maker is killed before the bond is able to stabilize the Chylde will die along with the Maker."

  Vampyre Culture:

  The Vampyre have their own hierarchy. The most basic bond is between Maker and Chylde. Then between a leader and their Kiss, and finally the leader of the Kiss, an Archon, to their House Lords.

  Kiss: A small group of Vampyres, usually including a Maker and any Chyldren, but also including those who chose to come together for companionship and protection. A lone Vampyre is weak and unprotected, together a Kiss is strong and presents a united front against any threats. Numbers are smaller, usually three to twenty members.

  note: It is unusual for members to change loyalties as they are seen as defectors or un-loyal. Once a Vampyre chooses to become part of a Kiss or follow an Archon it is like becoming family. A Chylde leaving their Maker, does not have the same stigma, but more than one desertion is seen as a weakness of character on the part of the vampyre. Often resulting in exclusion from and denial into any other Kiss.

  Originally used as a form of greeting, the 'kiss' a gesture of kissing a fellow vampyre on the check, or near the neck was a sign of trust.

  Archon: Originally used in ancient Greece, the term has come to refer to the leaders of a large well organized Kiss. Not all leaders hold the title Archon.

  The Circle: Generally used to identify humans working within or for a House. The group of trusted humans, who do the Vampyre House's bidding. The Inner Circle is comprised of those who have earned the Vampyre's trust and hold a place of Honor within the House. Usually the Inner Circle is comprised of a small handful of humans, the numbers then spread out in consecutive rings.

  House:

  House: The term refers to the status of a group of Vampyres, usually of larger numbers, spread over an area of land. They control and protect their territories or Estates, and are backed by a large financial and power base. There have been no new Houses created in the last century, though quite a few have fallen into ruin or history.

  Estate: Refers to the area of land the House owns as well as its claimed territories. Usually one house per-estate, the Vampyre Instinct disagrees with having too many Houses in close proximity, even with those who have entered into alliances.

  House Status:

  Though a single Kiss may try to petition, or declare House status it is usually when several Kiss' come under the guidance of one leader or Archon. The combined resources and power support the new House in assessing and dealing with any contentions. Once all contesters have been silenced, the House Council will send an official greeting to the House Lord or Lady, which acknowledges the new House.

  Percy says: "The exact process of approval is rather sketchy and a greeting is largely dependent on those in the current House Council."

  House Lord or Lady: The individual who, upon gaining a Kiss' fealty and loyalty is named House Lord. Usually, in conjuncture with declaring House Status.

  The House Council:

  House Council: The governing body of House Lords and Ladies who preside over vampyre law. Less like a government and more a tribunal, the House Council enforces and agrees upon Vampyre Law.

  The seven Seats were designed to ensure a wide variety of Lords and Ladies are always on the House Council. Usually picked from large territories, by continent mostly, the Seven represent the Vampyre World and all its power.

  Every two hundred years the Selection occurs where the new Seats are chosen, ensuring one territory or House does not monopolize the Council's resources or power.

  Vampyre Law: Though not always in agreement with Human laws and regulations, the Vampyre Law is all encompassing. Any infraction will be dealt with by swift and often deadly punishment.

  Vampyre Accord: The Agreement, a long odious document that sites the details of the pact between the world's governments and the Vampyre House Council and all its incarnations. Thus, including all of vampyre kind; to follow and submit to the governing laws of their respective countries. While highly official, the Accord allows the vampyre to monitor and punish their own kind, as a first line of defense, but allows certain parties to step in when the lines between Human and Vampyre Law blur.

  House Inquisitor: In recent years House Investigator: A small, often nomadic Kiss, directed by a lead Inquisitor. The Investigator is Judge, Jury and Executioner for the House Council. As part of the Vampyre Accord, they have the right to step into any official investigation where Vampyres are involved and take the lead.

  There are currently Three House Investigators:

  Sebastian Ardeal: In recent decades has taken on more work for the House Council.

  Delos: The Main Investigator, whose media presence and name has sired quite a few rumors about the investigators and whom all government officials have come to loath.

  M'Lady: Simply known by this moniker, the only female House Investigator. She has not been seen in public, by humans, in many years. Recent rumors say she had fallen out of favor with the House Council, or that she has been killed in the line of duty.

  Percy says: "Cases of Inquisitors completely taking over a case are rare, but do happen. Usually the case is one of high political or media value and the Investigator takes over to dampen the media coverage and begin the Hunt for the Rogue Vampyre. Taking over a case, tends to make a lot of people angry. More often than not, an Inquisitor will try to work alongside their human counterparts."

  Rogue: A vampyre who works outside of both Vampyre and Human Law. To be officially named Rogue is basically a death sentence.

  Additional Useful terms:

  Instinct: This term is used loosely, but refers to; a largely inheritable and unalterable tendency of an creature to make a specific response to environmental stimuli without involving reason.

  Percy says: "Instinct is a sneaky term and even more mysterious part of all Para. It's mercurial nature must not be underestimated. Wyr instinct is high around the full moon, putting even the calmest man on edge. Vampyre Instinct is largely subdued but will often come into account during stressful situations. When pressured, a Vampyre's civilized veneer will often fall to Instinct.

  Understand that Instinct drives the flight or fight r
esponse and no two reactions, even from the same person under similar circumstances, will ever be the same when Instinct is involved."

  Paranormal Consultant: An individual who has a great deal of schooling and training regarding the paranormal, including their laws and cultures. These people are hired to give advice and consult on both personal and official basis. Though many call themselves Paranormal Consultants, the last decade had shown an increase in a higher caliber of Paranormal Consultant-Investigators.

  Percy says: "As part of a Paranormal Consultant and Investigation firm, it's our job to decode the mysterious. Often using scientific and methodical analysis, we try to translate the Paranormal for our clients, which includes actively pursuing answers, evidence and criminals, just with a paranormal twist. Along with law enforcement, we help to pit our knowledge and skills against those seeking to outrun the law."