Chapter 7
Chapter Seven
Tall trees surrounded the stately manor that resided on ten acres of a landscaper’s dream just outside Frederick, Maryland. The front gates had been left open, and from what Lucas could observe, security was light. He’d heard of House Beall, but it had fallen to a shell of its former self over a century ago. He strode to the front door then paused when he realized Ginger wasn’t next to him.
She had stopped to smell the roses that lined the front walk. When she noticed him watching, she scurried to catch up. “Sorry. I couldn’t help myself. They’re so beautiful.”
“I don’t mind. I didn’t want to knock until you were with me.”
She stepped next to him and smiled at something behind him. He turned to find the door opened and a petite woman dressed in a pastel-pink pantsuit staring at Ginger before looking beyond her.
“Those are prize-winning roses. They were our father’s favorite.” She stared at them for a moment longer then glanced up at Lucas. “Can I help you?”
“I’m sorry to disturb you. My name is Lucas Maynard with House Trelane. I was wondering if Carmen was at home.”
“What does House Trelane want with my daughter?”
“Mother. Don’t be rude.” A woman, who appeared close to Lyra’s age, pulled her mother away. “Please come in.”
The older vampire gave her daughter a tolerant look, but it turned suspicious when she eyed Lucas. Then she sniffed the air. “You brought a human with you.”
“My Blood Ward.”
“I see.” She turned to her daughter. “In the sitting room, if you please. Try not to be long.” The woman tottered down the hallway and disappeared around a bend.
“I’m sorry about that. She’s not fond of visitors.”
“We’re sorry for the intrusion, but we have urgent business. Are you Carmen?”
She tugged her sweater closer and nodded. “You said you’re from House Trelane?” She led them through a door to the right where a brightly lit room welcomed them. “Can I offer you a refreshment?”
“I appreciate the offer, but we won’t be long.”
Lucas and Ginger sat on the couch, and Carmen took one of the stuffed chairs across from them.
“This might be a sensitive topic, but we’re looking for Philipe Renaud. My understanding is that you’re one of his friends.”
At the mention of Philipe, she paled, and her posture turned rigid. “That was many years ago.”
“Within the last decade?”
She considered the question. “About that time. Maybe a year or two earlier. I don’t have a point of reference to be any more accurate.”
“That’s alright. We don’t need exact timeframes.”
“I’ve spoken to Fiona since then. Maybe five years ago.” She laughed. “It’s about time for our next check-in.”
“Check-in?”
She waved a hand and appeared more relaxed. “A turn of phrase. I knew her decades ago. And ever since she went off with Philipe, it’s only been phone calls, and those are rare. About every five years I hear from her. It’s become a joke between us.”
“Is she alright?” Ginger asked.
Carmen glanced at her as if she’d forgotten Ginger was in the room, then she gave her a soft smile. “That’s so sweet. Thank you for asking.” She ran her fingers up and down the arm of the chair as she stared at something beyond them, the movement barely audible to Lucas in the quiet room. “I think so. She’s more reserved than she used to be. I thought maybe she was having an argument with Philipe, but whenever I mention him, she becomes as bubbly as when they first met.” She laughed and shook her head. “I’ve never seen two vampires more in love. No. The stress was coming from someplace else. Or maybe she was just really tired.”
“Do you know where she was calling from?” Lucas asked. And, as he expected, that’s when her suspicion returned.
“Why? You didn’t mention why you were looking for Philipe.”
Lucas glanced at Ginger, and she nodded. He hadn’t wanted to bring up the book unless he had to, but if Philipe and Fiona were still hiding after all this time, he would need to be specific to get a decent answer.
“We believe he has knowledge of or possibly possession of a book we’re searching for.”
“You mean something from the Renaud Library?”
“I mean something that used to be in the Renaud Library.” And now that he’d gone this far, he might as well go all the way. “It appears to be missing.”
Her shock appeared genuine. “You must have received incorrect information. Nothing ever goes missing from the Renaud Library. Nor is it ever misplaced.”
She was a true believer, just as he had been, and it wouldn’t be easy to change her mind. He could tell her about the multiple book facades that claimed it was in restoration at the four libraries he’d personally visited. But she would have to see it before she would believe it.
“I’m sorry to have wasted your time.” He stood, and Ginger rose next to him. “It’s good to hear the two of them are doing well.”
Carmen stood. “I’m sorry I couldn’t have been of more help.”
He’d only taken a couple of steps before a tingling bell sounded. He turned, but not before he saw Carmen’s gaze fill with confusion. She made to turn for the door when the bell sounded a second time.
She raised a finger. “Just give me a moment, please.” She strode toward a desk in the far corner of the room and, keeping her back to them, picked up the handset of an old 1940s-style black telephone.
“Yes.” The pause was brief. “Are you sure? Yes, of course.” She hung up and heaved a breath before turning toward them. “This might sound strange, but my grandfather wishes to speak with you.”
Now it was Lucas’s curiosity that rose. “I’m sorry. I thought your grandfather had died some time ago.”
“No. He’s still with us. Please, come this way.” She led them toward the back of the house, then turned down a hall that ended at a set of double doors. After removing a key from her pocket, she inserted it into a panel to the left of the doors. The doors slid sideways to reveal an elevator.
He took Ginger’s arm as they entered. When he turned around, Carmen waited outside. “Aren’t you coming?”
“He’ll want to speak with you alone.”
And the doors closed.
“Are you sure this is a good idea?” Ginger asked, her gaze hitting every part of the elevator. She squeezed her purse against her chest.
“I don’t think they plan on attacking and holding us hostage.” Lucas grinned. She’d stoically faced two vampires a mere twenty-four hours ago and helped him dump their bodies in the Hudson River. But she was nervous about seeing an ancient.
He could understand her trepidation, but it was hard to get past his own curiosity. Old man Beall was supposed to be dead and buried based on everything he’d heard. And that information was close to a century old.
A bell chimed as the doors opened, and he blinked. The elevator had brought them to a library. And it wasn’t a cozy one with paneled walls, darkly upholstered furniture, a hearth with glowing embers, and stuffed bookcases that lined the walls. Though there were plenty of bookcases.
This room stretched for a good hundred yards and was as wide as the house. The bookshelves ran floor-to-ceiling, and there were several rows of them in addition to those that lined the walls, only leaving space for long, thin windows to brighten the immense room. Lucas spotted three rolling library ladders, and there didn’t seem to be an empty slot on a single shelf.
Statues and ferns filled the spaces around multiple seating areas, each adorned with a sofa and two side chairs in a variety of colors. This was the most elaborate home library he’d seen outside of the Renauds’, and it would take a lifetime to go through all the books.
A male voice came out of nowhere. “Please continue through the library and take your first hall to the left. My room is at the end.”
Ginger jumped and scanned the ceilings for the speakers. Lucas didn’t see those, but he found the cameras. There must have been a similar setup in the sitting room, where the old man had seen and, most likely, listened to their conversation with Carmen.
Lucas pulled Ginger’s arm through his and guided her according to the given directions. When they reached the door, Lucas knocked.
“Come. Come.”
The voice was deep and commanding. Lucas had been expecting something wispier from an ancient who was supposed to be dead.
When they entered, Lucas had to force himself not to shy away from the vampire in front of him. He knew Beall was an ancient of at least a thousand years. But that didn’t explain his shriveled appearance. Lucas focused on the eyes, which were such a deep brown they were almost black, filled with a sharp intelligence that belied the body that held them hostage.
“Sit on the sofa over here. It’s difficult for me to get around when I’m not in my wheelchair, and sometimes I just need to get out of the damn thing.” He gave Ginger a long perusal. “Blood Ward. Come here, girl.”
Ginger seemed glued to the floor, but after a short pause, she gave Lucas a sidelong glance before moving toward Beall. Lucas took the opportunity to follow behind her to get to the couch.
“Give me your hands.” His were an odd shade of ivory with long, bony fingers that ended in perfectly manicured nails. “I’m not contagious.”
That seemed to wake her up, and she gripped his hands. “I’m sorry. That was rude. It’s just that I haven’t seen a true ancient before.”
His laugh was coarse, and he choked a bit before his voice returned to its normal timber. “I’ll tell you a secret. Most of them look more like your young vampire here. Now, squeeze my hands. Harder. That’s it. And let me look in your eyes, and don’t worry, I’m not mesmerizing you.”
He stared at Ginger for some time, then released her hands and waved for her to take a seat. His voice took on a teasing note. “An interesting choice for a Blood Ward. She seems more suited for battle.”
Ginger sat straighter at the comment, and Lucas chuckled. “You’re not far off.”
The old man slammed a fist on his chair with more strength than Lucas expected for his fragile state. “I thought so.”
Then he turned serious as he stared at Lucas. “I’ll ask that you keep this conversation confidential. As far as the world knows, as you stated earlier, I’m almost a century dead now. The truth of the matter is that I have the wasting blood disease that impacts our species. As you know, there’s no cure, only a long, slow death as my own blood eats away at me. Doesn’t matter how many humans share their blood with me or what type it is, it immediately turns my own blood against me. Not even the beast can help. I’d rather no one knows. It’s not heritable, but should someone discover the reason for the reduction in our fertility rates, I don’t want Carmen living under what many would call a curse.”
“They’ll never hear it from us.”
The old vampire seemed appeased. His gaze became unfocused for a long moment before he turned his dark eyes on Lucas. “You’re searching for the De f?rste dage .”
Lucas blinked. “Yes. How do you know about it?”
“Because I was on the Council when it was decided to have it hidden within the bowels of the Renaud Library.”
Ginger reached out and gripped Lucas’s hand. Not wanting to interrupt Beall, he squeezed her hand and simply held on as the ancient vampire continued.
“They didn’t think anyone outside the Council was aware of the book. It wasn’t until Guildford Trelane—over a thousand years later—asked about it. That was when I received the first calls. A couple of other ancients, ex-Council members, were worried that someone had asked about it. Poor Philipe had no idea what Pandora’s box he’d opened.”
Ginger snickered at Beall’s casual reference to Cressa’s alter ego, and Lucas almost bit his tongue to keep his grin in check. The old vampire had no idea how close his comment was to the truth. Not only was Pandora the alias Cressa used when she was a thief, but the fact she was also a dreamwalker is what started Devon down this dangerous path.
Lucas covered the moment with a clarifying comment. “I understand the title means “the first days.”
“That’s correct.”
Beall had been almost gleeful in finally sharing knowledge of the book with someone—an outsider. Now, he’d become tight-lipped. If he wasn’t going to say it, Lucas wouldn’t spoil the opportunity.
“And do you believe what’s written in the book could shatter vampire society and bring about a civil war?”
Beall’s eyes squinted as he tapped a bony finger on the desk. “How committed is Trelane in finding the truth?”
“And what side of the line does House Beall sit?”
The old vampire laughed until he wheezed, and Lucas thought he might have to call someone. Beall sipped water from a nearby glass and waited a moment. “Forgive me. Sometimes my lungs can’t seem to keep up with me.” This time he took a larger gulp of water, wiped his mouth, then studied them both.
It went on for so long, Lucas was surprised Ginger didn’t start bouncing a knee, but she had released her grip on him and sat as still as any vampire.
“We were once a powerful house, a strong ally in battle. Now, the House is focused on education, which is where my granddaughter spends most of her time. Her mother is so busy socializing she wouldn’t notice bombs dropping unless they hit the manor. My son squandered his inheritance and then got his fool self killed. And with the slim chance of any future heirs, House Beall will most likely die with me.”
“What will happen to Carmen and the rest of the household?” Ginger asked.
“House Pearson has committed to support the Family through marriage. They need our name recognition in order to move higher within the aristocracy. As traditionalists, House Pearson sides with House Venizi. Carmen isn’t happy about it, but I have to consider the safety of the entire Family.”
“I see. And would you consider an offer from House Trelane?”
“You’re not looking for a wife, are you? And with such a beautiful Blood Ward by your side.”
Lucas grinned. “I don’t think a marriage proposal will be required. That does appear to be a Venizi trait. We can offer protection in the way of a small security force residing at the manor. Your daughter and granddaughter are free to continue their own pursuits as long as the House remains loyal to Trelane.”
“And what would Trelane ask for in return?”
“Everything you know of the book, and if necessary, your support of House Trelane with the Council.”
Beall eyed him then leaned back to stare at the ceiling. Silence descended for a solid five minutes before he lowered his gaze to meet Lucas’s. “And you have the power to make such an offer?”
“I’m cadre.”
The old vampire’s brow lifted. “I’m sorry. I wasn’t aware.”
Lucas waved him off. It wasn’t standard procedure to declare being part of a House leader’s cadre, but it was well understood that the cadre had the power to make commitments on behalf of the House. “You might have locked yourself away, but you’ve been keeping your eye on the Council, and you’re aware of the building tension between the old ways and the new. The shifters are restless. From what little I know of the book—it will either rip vampire society apart or pave the way for its future. We’re betting on the latter and preparing for the former.”
Beall grinned, his teeth a stark white against his sallow complexion. “To be young again and ready for battle.” He shook his head. “It doesn’t seem that long ago.”
Lucas would have loved to spend days with this ancient and hear his tales of war. Being that old and a House Leader, he would have seen his share of them. He glanced at Ginger, who still hadn’t moved. At first, he was concerned at her frozen profile, but there was a sparkle in her eye and that look of curiosity he knew so well.
Beall coughed and interrupted his thoughts. “There are many things in the book that could initiate either outcome you’ve stated, but I’m afraid I can’t provide the specifics within the pages. What I can share is why the book was created, or at least, what was told to the Council of the time.” He shifted in his seat and rang a bell. “If you don’t mind, I need some tea.”
Within several minutes, a female servant brought in a tray with a tea service. She glanced at Lucas, ignoring Ginger, and he nodded. The staff believed her to be a Blood Ward, and as such, didn’t deserve a choice unless Lucas requested it. Archaic, but Ginger didn’t say a word.
Once the tea was served and the servant left, Beall sipped his tea and considered his words.
“Before I begin, I’m going to ask you to suspend your personal beliefs on what I’m about to share. Where many humans believe the folklore of King Arthur so do many vampires believe the myth of dreamwalkers.” He paused as he studied Lucas, whose face remained blank, then flicked a glance to Ginger, before nodding. “Good. I believe the rest of my story will then appear more plausible to you. Thousands of years ago, dreamwalkers walked the earth alongside vampires. The two species were what you might call interconnected—a symbiotic relationship that served both species. During a time before that relationship matured, the two species were at odds, which resulted in a great war. After several years and more deaths than one could count, a truce was called. It was during their negotiations that the two species discovered something within themselves that could benefit the other. The truce was sealed with the Dagger of Omar. Many don’t believe this dagger exists, but if it did, it would add validation to what was written in a book that would begin a new day for both vampire and dreamwalker. The book, as you know, was called De f?rste dage , the only recorded document that specified the agreement between species.”
Lucas sat back, and Ginger scooted closer, reaching out for his arm. “Do you know what the benefits were that were shared between the species?”
Beall shook his head. “I have my suspicions, but I never had the benefit of reading the book. And no, I won’t share an old vampire’s musings. You’ll have to discover that on your own. I’m not one to start rumors, especially around something that can get one killed.”
“And the reason why the book has been hidden?” Lucas asked the obvious question, and as much as he wanted confirmation, he knew he wasn’t going to get it. But Beall’s words were enough to read between the lines.
Beall drained his teacup and reached for the teapot. Ginger rose and picked it up, refilling his cup and refreshing theirs. “Thank you, my dear. You’re very kind.” He gave Lucas a wink. “And properly trained. I should expect nothing less from House Trelane. Guildford was always particular about the kindness of his Blood Wards to do the right thing.”
Lucas bowed his head, accepting the compliment. He’d owe Ginger a fancy dinner as compensation for her performance today.
After finishing his second cup, Beall continued. “The species lived comfortably together for centuries until certain members of the Council began to fear the dreamwalkers. From what I heard, there had been a few bad apples among the dreamwalkers, but it was enough. These members convinced the majority of the Council that there was a better path without the dreamwalkers. The rumors and fear spread rapidly, which is one reason I don’t barter in rumors.”
“And what happened?” Lucas asked.
He shrugged. “There are dozens of answers—maybe more—to that question. But I’ll sum it up for you. In all your years as a vampire, have you ever been told of dreamwalkers, let alone met one?”
Lucas shrugged and hedged his answer. “Not once in all my earlier years.”
“Yet, if I had to guess at your mission, this book is something you’d search for even without Trelane’s support.”
Lucas allowed a small grin to show. “I’m a student of history, and other than this one elusive book, there’s nothing else written about dreamwalkers in the Renaud library that I’m aware of.”
“And yet it seems Trelane is hanging his seat on the Council on this very book.”
“Let’s just say he’s building a rather strong case.”
A light glow hit Beall’s gaze, and he grinned. “I see.” He steepled his fingers and gave Lucas a long, appraising stare. “Then I’ll leave you with the one piece of information I feel confident in sharing. The last I heard—and this was about a year ago—Fiona was in Fayetteville, Tennessee. She’s your best hope in locating the book.”