Dannika and Tanya spent the next half hour asking him questions about the different vampire powers and how these powers merge with one’s soul mate. He told them the same thing Earadessa had. The five of them possess the most uncommon powers amongst all the vampires of all time.
Sabastian sat forward, leaning his head in-between the front seats. “There have only been a small number of vamps that have ever possessed those kinds of abilities. The ones that have possessed them have either not mastered them or have not mastered them as quickly as you girls are.”
“Really?” Dannika asked.
“Yes, and when your powers merge with your mate’s, it will be as if you and your soul mate are one. He is, in essence, your other half. Your powers will come together as a whole.”
Tanya’s mouth dropped open. This whole immortal thing was turning out better and better with every passing day.
Chapter Forty-Two
Tanya glanced at the clock on the car’s stereo. They’d been on the road just over two hours. Gosh, has it really been that long? Ugh, she was more than ready to get out and stretch her achy legs.
He must have noticed her rubbing the soreness out of her legs and feet. Picking up the radio, he said, “I think we’re ready for a pit stop. How about you guys?”
Before Earadessa had a chance to respond, Makinzee’s voice boomed in the background. “Oh, thank you, sweet goddess. I’ve had to pee since forever now, and I think that my bladder will explode any minute.”
Dannika burst out laughing, and Tanya joined in. That was their sister, the one with no filter.
Since they all had plenty of gas, they didn’t bother finding the nearest convenience store. Instead, they pulled in at a rest stop off the highway.
There were two parking spaces right in front of the building. Dannika parked in one, and Earadessa pulled in right beside them. As soon as the Jeep came to a stop, Makinzee jumped out and made a mad dash to the restroom, nearly knocking over a couple of women.
Once everyone had a chance to use the restroom, Earadessa asked them to join her in prayer, forming a circle. “Okay, I think we should continue to drive straight to Oklahoma City. The sooner we can get there to a secure position, the better our chances of not being taken advantage of. We will need to stop for gas in roughly an hour though, but we’re making excellent time.”
Tanya could not wait until they arrived in Oklahoma City. She was so sick of being scrunched up in the car. Road trips were not her thing.
“It shouldn’t be much longer now. Come, let us join hands and once again ask our goddess to lead and guide us.” Earadessa stretched her hands out to either side.
The seven of them joined hands, and Earadessa asked Ratri to guide them safely and protect them from unseen forces. “Thank you, goddess Ratri, for your faithfulness. You have never abandoned us, but instead you are always with us. Today we just ask that your hand guide us safely to our destination.”
The prayer was short, sweet, and to the point. Sabastian sang a song in a language Tanya had never heard before. It was beautiful and passionate, a song from the heart. As he sang, his whole body began to quiver and sway to the tune. Letting go of her hand, Sabastian lifted his arm, fanning the air around them.
As he fanned the air, the most amazing thing happened.
In the midst of their circle, a fog swirled. Tanya never saw a figure, but she did hear the voice of the goddess. This was the first time she or her sisters had experienced an encounter with Ratri and joy overwhelmed her.
“I am proud of you, my children.” Ratri’s voice was soft-spoken. “Sabastian and Earadessa, you have done well. Tanya, Dannika, Regina, Makinzee, and Serienna, from this day forward you will be known as my princesses. You are to grow in power and rule the night.”
Eyes fixated on the fog in front of them, Tanya gaped at Ratri’s words. Princesses? They were her princesses and would rule the night? They were Princesses of the Night.
“Tanya.” Ratri’s voice drifted over Tanya’s ear. “You are to lead your sisters in righteousness. Love and peace be with you.”
After Ratri had spoken, the fog began to blow away in the breeze. Tanya looked around and noticed that Earadessa and Sabastian had a radiant glow on their faces. Her sisters opened their eyes in awe and wonder.
Earadessa broke the circle to stand in front of Tanya. “My child, great and powerful you are.” She waved her hand toward the other girls. “All of you. May you always lean on and trust your goddess. You, Tanya, have been appointed as leader. So, wisdom I bestow to you.”
Tanya was utterly speechless as Earadessa kissed her forehead and bowed to her. She looked at her sisters, curious of their response but was pleasantly surprised to see them smiling from ear-to-ear.
Once Earadessa backed away, Sabastian took her place and bowed before Tanya. “Great and mighty Princess, you have been given the most honorable title. Mercy and love I bestow to you.”
Backing into the center of their circle, he held his hand out for Earadessa to join him. She took her place at his side, and the two of them lifted their heads to the sky to give one more thank you to Ratri.
When they’d finished their praise, Sabastian opened his eyes, his skin still aglow. “It’s time to get back on the road.”
Tanya noticed he still held Earadessa’s hand. Her eyes zeroed in on his thumb stroking the back of Earadessa’s hand. It was so quick, if she’d have blinked she would have missed it. Had he always touched her so affectionately yet so secretively?
The jingle of keys drew Tanya’s attention and she noticed Dannika held them up toward her. Driving was the last thing she wanted to do, but she was anxious to get back on the road and to a hotel.
Dannika made small talk with Sabastian while Tanya drove. They talked about his years working for Lazarith and the years he and Earadessa had spent together.
Time seemed to fly by, and before long the flashing red gas light caught Tanya’s attention. “Do you mind radioing the others to let them know that we’re on empty? I’m pretty sure that if we don’t stop in the next ten minutes, we’ll be walking to the nearest gas station.”
Sabastian nodded. Instead of picking up the radio, Tanya saw him close his eyes. When he opened them again, he smiled at Tanya’s reflection. “Dess said that we’re approaching a QuikTrip just a mile up the road, and she’ll meet us there.”
That was a relief, but Tanya hoped the Mercedes had enough gas to make it to the pump. The last thing she wanted was for their pretty new car to die feet from the pump and her having to push it.
QuikTrip was right off the highway, at a cross road with the onramp. Tanya pulled up to the pump just as the car started to sputter. A giggle erupted from her. At least they made it to their destination.
The Jeep pulled in to the pump to her right, and Makinzee hopped out to fill the tank.
Earadessa approached Tanya to ask if she’d had any visions since that morning.
“No, everything seems to be going as planned.”
“Good.” Earadessa watched Sabastian as he walked toward the building. “Bas is headed in to grab some munchies. Is there anything that you two want?”
“Thank goodness. Yes. Dannika’s stomach has been competing with mine to see whose can growl the loudest.” The laugh that came from Earadessa shook her body, and Tanya cast her eyes downward. Why did she say that? How embarrassing. “Um…we’d love Sprite and Funyuns. Thanks.”
Earadessa closed her eyes, telepathically relaying the message. Pointing to the gas tank, she said, “This should get us to the City. Once we arrive, we’ll find a buffet and get some dinner. Sound good?”
“Sounds perfect.” Tanya could not be happier. Who would have ever thought the promise of food would sound so blissful.
“We’re not far from the City. You should have plenty of blood in the cooler, use it a
s you need it.” She left Tanya to meet Sabastian at the Jeep to help distribute snacks and drinks.
Makinzee thanked him then waved to Tanya.
Tanya waved back and climbed into the backseat, too tired to drive any further. Sabastian was more than happy to take her place behind the wheel. He reminded her of Mark, always willing to do all the work.
At some point, she must have fallen asleep because she was awakened when a finger poked her in the ribs. Opening her eyes, she looked around, unsure of how long they’d been on the road.
“Hey, wake up and look around,” Dannika said. “We’re very close.”
Rubbing sleep out of her eyes, Tanya looked out the window. Signs for Oklahoma City hung overhead. They were only twenty minutes out.
Adjusting the rearview mirror, Sabastian met her gaze. “We’re passing Enid now. We’re almost there.”
Chapter Forty-Three
Static came through the small radio, startling Tanya, then Earadessa spoke. She could have talked to Sabastian telepathically, but Tanya guessed she used the radio for her and Dannika’s benefit. “Bas, we’re taking the second exit. The hotel with our reservations will be on the right.”
No sooner had Earadessa spoken than Sabastian jumped four lanes during rush hour traffic to take his exit. Tanya was thankful he was driving. Heavy traffic made her nauseous. Once he entered the off-ramp, he had to maneuver through three lanes of bumper to bumper cars to get in the far left-hand lane.
The ease at which he slipped around cars reminded her of a scene from a movie she’d once seen where the criminals were in a high-speed chase and were weaving in and out of traffic. The man had talent. Tanya on the other hand, was slightly green from the motion as well as fear.
Dannika made fun of her all the way up to their room. She knew traffic affected her the way rollercoasters affect others.
The bellhop unlocked their door then stepped aside to allow them entry. Unloading the dolly, he set their luggage next to the door and handed the keycard to Sabastian.
Tanya could not believe her eyes. This was the type of hotel she’d only seen in movies. They probably had caviar on the menu, not that she’d eat it if they did. Yuck.
Earadessa must have reserved the largest suite they had. The kitchen had a full-size refrigerator and a stovetop. A nook area had a round table and chairs. There were two bedrooms, each with two queen beds, and the master bedroom had a king bed and an adjoining bathroom.
Venturing past the living room to the bathroom, stationed between the two bedrooms, Tanya was blown away by the beauty. It was exquisite. Their bathroom in their apartment had nothing on this spacious room. In the corner was a large walk-in shower with two shower heads and a bench. In the opposite corner was a gigantic Jacuzzi bathtub.
Knowing that this was theirs, even if it was only for a day, made her feel like royalty.
Tanya decided to take a shower to freshen up before they went out for dinner. She yelped when she opened the bathroom door and discovered Earadessa standing there, waiting. Earadessa motioned for her to follow.
When Tanya crossed the threshold into the first bedroom, she shut the door behind them. “Honey, how is everything looking? No new visions since we’ve been here?” Earadessa must be worried about the earlier vision since they were on their way to a restaurant for dinner.
“No, not since we were at your house.” This wasn’t the day they’d have to fight. She knew this because the five of them were not fighters and in her vision, they fought like trained professionals. “If you’re worried we’re going to get jumped, don’t. It won’t happen today.”
“Good.” The worry lines on Earadessa’s face disappeared. She pulled a box from her pocket and held it out. “I want to give you this.”
Tanya lifted the lid off the box. Inside was a silver-and-gold bracelet with two charms. One of the charms was a beautiful symbol in the shape of a sun, it’s rays long. The other was of a five-pointed star.
“Lazarith had this made just for you. I’ve already given the others theirs. All of you have the protection symbol.” Earadessa pointed to the charm shaped like the sun.
“It’s very beautiful.” Holding the bracelet in her hand, Tanya admired it. There was something about it that made her feel safe.
“It has magic weaved into it.” Earadessa took the jewelry and secured it on Tanya’s wrist. “Each bracelet is designed specifically for the recipient.”
“What kind of magic?” Was the woman talking about real magic, like witchcraft?
“Lazarith is friends with a spell binder. He visited her a couple months back to have these bracelets made.” Earadessa’s eyes softened. “You must wear this at all times, it will help to shield your mind from your attackers.” She pointed to the symbol of the sun. “It will help enhance your powers, kind of like a talisman.”
Tanya was both amazed and shocked. How many television shows were actually based on real events or real supernatural beings? Seriously, were those movies written by people in the nightlife? Next thing you know she’d be telling them shape shifters and werewolves were real.
“Your bracelet is unique in the fact that you have an extra medallion.” Earadessa pointed to the star shaped charm. “This one is a symbol of the five elements.”
What in the world is she talking about? Tanya frowned. “The five elements?”
“Yes. The five elements are water, fire, air, earth, and spirit. You are the Head Princess and will be able to call upon all five of the elements to help you in the days to come.”
Whoa. Tanya opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out.
“Don’t worry, Tanya, it will all come with time. Most likely after you have united with your soul mate.” Earadessa explained to her that when they ascend into full power these elements will be available to her to help fight the evil. As leader, Tanya will have the ability to call on all five of the elements whereas her sisters will only acquire one of the natural ones.
As they headed back to the living room, Sabastian walked through the door. “I got us a new ride.” He held up a set of keys, twirling them around his finger.
Earadessa crossed the room to embrace him in a passionate hug. It was the first time they’d let their guard down around the princesses, and Tanya thought it was a rather beautiful thing. Wanting to give them some time alone, the girls left the room and headed down to the parking lot.
The others looked around the car lot trying to decide which one he’d bought. Tanya on the other hand was immediately drawn to a blood red Mercedes SUV. She couldn’t explain how she knew, she just knew that this was the one he’d purchased.
Regina joined Tanya, running her finger along the side of the SUV. “You think it’s this one?”
“Yeah.”
Regina bumped her with her shoulder. “I hope your right, it’s beautiful.”
The doors unlocked, and Tanya looked around. Sabastian raised the key in the air so she’d know it was theirs. Opening the door, she poked her head inside. “Holy cow. This thing is bigger than a minivan. There’s eight seats in here.”
“No way.” Makinzee wormed her way past Tanya and into the Mercedes with a shriek. “I love it.”
Sabastian opened the passenger door for Earadessa, and she casually brushed her fingers over his hand as she climbed in. She turned to mouth I love you, and he winked at her. Their exchange happened so quickly Tanya almost missed it.
Love is a beautiful thing, and she was anxious to experience what these two have.
Chapter Forty-Four
The restaurant was a mile up the road and had a killer buffet. Sabastian pushed two large tables together to create a space big enough for the seven of them. “What would you girls like to drink?” he asked before they left to fill their plates.
“Tea,” Tanya answered. “All of us. We’re tea drinkers.”
He nodded, getting their drinks filled while they focused on their plates.
Tanya was beyond starving. She piled French fries on one plate and chicken, pizza, pasta, and ribs on another. Looking down at the plates in her hands, she felt like a pig but could care less. Let everyone in the building gawk. She’d eat and be satisfied.
“Okay, so what’s our plan of action?” Makinzee asked in between bites. “I mean; this place is huge. I was checking it out online earlier. There’s a place called the…Um.” She pursed her lips as she thought. “Oh crap, I forgot the name of the venue. Anyway, it’s a large arena where the city has all kinds of events, and they’re having a concert there tonight.” When no one said anything, she offered them a different option. “But if everyone’s too tired for a concert then I guess we could go see a movie.”
A movie was always Tanya’s first choice. Being the introvert she was, clubs and concerts were not her thing. They made her uncomfortable, and the bigger the crowd the more she felt uneasy.
“A movie sounds really good, but so does the concert. Do you know who’ll be playing?” Regina was the clubber amongst them so of course she’d always be prepared for live music.
Makinzee scrunched her nose as she thought. “If I remember correctly, their band name is Enation. They’re an Indie rock band.” Taking another bite, she dabbed the corners of her mouth with a napkin. “Actually, I went to their website earlier to check them out. From what I previewed, they’re amazing.”
Always the worrywart, Serienna turned to Earadessa. “But is it a good idea to be seen in public? I mean, we do look different with these bright, emerald eyes, and the last time we went to a club we were singled out by a group of guys. Should we be at a concert with all of the danger that seems to be coming at us?” Taking a sip of tea, she added, “And what if Tanya has a vision while we’re there?”
Princesses of the Night (Royal Blood Book 1) Page 15