He smiled. "That's the spirit!"
I thought about the conversation I'd had with my vampire parents. "Since we have a while before we get to the competition, would you like to tell me more about the Fyrsturae? I'm very curious."
"You want to hear about it now?"
"Yeah. Are you up to talking about it?"
"I don't mind. I prefer to prepare first, going over my notes to make sure that I don't forget anything. But I can go from memory easily enough. I'll check my notes later and let you know if I missed anything. Do you have any place in particular that you want to start?"
"I want to hear the stories. I don't even know the names of any others beyond the first two."
"As you know, there were nine Fyrsturae, five males and four females. They began mating in order to create more vampires. They would vie for power and it quickly became apparent that those who were born first were the most powerful. Their disagreements became more heated and as their families expanded some vampires moved throughout the world to get away from each other. They loved and fought like any family would; alliances and enemies were made. The world wasn't big enough to keep them as separated as they would have liked. Battles ensued and eventually they all died. Only their descendants and common vampires remained."
"That's all that you're going to give me? The Cliff's Notes version!"
"That would only make sense, since you're getting Cliff's version of the story!" He laughed.
"I don't find that funny." I said, folding my arms.
"Really? Not even a little?" He was smiling.
"I can see the humor in it, but no, I don't appreciate it. I want all of the details and you've only given me a very basic overview."
"Don't get upset, princess. There's plenty of time to learn about the whole history. I'm just trying to have some fun with you."
I couldn't help smiling. "I like to have fun with you, but I really want to learn more."
"You don't need to worry. I'll get to that. I want to make sure that you have an overall understanding of everything first, before we get into all of the details."
"Tell me more about the Fyrsturae themselves. The only thing that I know is two names. That's it."
"Are you sure that you want all of this now? Even with a vampire's memory, you'll want to take notes. The names aren't ones that you're familiar with, and it will be hard to keep them straight."
"Then just give me the first names and we'll see how I do."
He shook his head. "Okay, we'll give it a try. The third born was named Dagur, and after him was the first female vampire, Svana. She was Halldor's sister."
"Was she in the second line since she was Halldor's sister? I don't fully understand how the lines work."
"No, she was the fourth vampire, so her's was the fourth line."
"You say that the Fyrsturae had kids together. How are the lines deciphered if a child is born of, say, the first line and the fourth line?"
"We always take the highest line. So, for example, our kids would be of the first line, because you're from the first line. They wouldn't be considered part of the second line. That would be entirely too confusing, because the lines have gotten further entwined every time a new vampire is born."
"So if a vampire is from the ninth line and marries a vampire from the third, the children would be of the third line?"
"Right. It doesn't matter which lines the parents are from, the children are always of the highest."
"But there wouldn't be a ninth line, would there? Any children that the ninth Fyrsturae had would've been of the line of their partner."
"Except for when she mated with children of the other Fyrsturae. When that happened, the Fyrsturae's line was the one given. The Fyrsturae were given more importance over a descendant when lines are assigned."
"Okay, I think my head is officially spinning now."
He laughed. "It is a bit confusing at first, I know. The highest line always comes first unless a Fyrsturae has a child with a descendant, then it's always the line of the Fyrsturae."
"It makes sense. I just have to wrap my mind around it. So you'll be the first vampire on the throne that isn't from the first line?"
"That's correct. Our children will be of the first line and perhaps another child of the first line will be available to marry them when the time comes."
"Are there others from the first line? Besides my uncle's line, I mean."
"Yes, there are others, but they're all married or otherwise unavailable."
"My uncle's line will never be available for the throne?"
"No, because he married a common vampire. That automatically excludes them from the throne. No common vampires or half-bloods can rule on the throne. Although if your aunt died, and your uncle wanted to get on the throne, he would have every right at that point. Samantha and Clara would be excluded because of their common bloodline. He'd have to marry a royal vampire and have children with her to keep his line on the throne."
"That makes sense. What happens if a first line male comes up available? Would I be forced to marry him instead of you?"
"Don't worry about that, Alexis. Much research has gone into it, and there is no vampire even remotely available to you in your line."
"Except Tanner," I said without thinking.
He made a face. "Yes, Tanner is technically a first line vampire since you changed him with your blood. But he wasn't born a vampire so he's given less consideration."
"Let's just talk more about the Fyrsturae. So we have Alrekur, Halldor, Dagur and Svana so far."
"I'm impressed that you remembered. Let's see if you can remember all nine. Next came Baldur, and then his sister, Asdis. They were followed by Soren, Ida and Hella. Soren was Alrekur's brother; none of the rest had siblings although it was common for the entire group to refer to each other as brothers and sisters."
"Alrekur, Halldor, Dagur, Svana, Baldur, Asdis, Soren, Ida and Hella. Did I get that right?"
He smiled. "I'm definitely impressed. Can you name the siblings?"
"Alrekur and Soren, Halldor and Svana, and Baldur and Asdis. How was that?"
"I can see how you've always been so focused on your studies. Your memory is most impressive, even for a vampire."
"At least I can use it for something with meaning now. Most of what I've learned in school isn't going to do me a lot of good running a vampire kingdom."
"Even the fact that you're efficient at studying will be of use. Especially since you have so much to learn in such a short period of time. I had years."
"Wait, I think that's our exit up ahead."
When we got to the competition, we were both surprised to find no parking anywhere near the skate park. We had to park eight blocks away. "I hope that Amanda appreciates this," I said.
He smiled at me. "I'm sure that she does. Besides, I'm sure we can make the most of our time." He reached for my hand and I felt like I was walking on air. We smiled at each other and enjoyed the scenery. Trees and bushes were everywhere and it was very pretty, despite the cold that usually robs the plant life of beauty.
When we got to the competition, I was amazed at how busy it was. People were riding skateboards all over the place, even on the paths and down the stairs. Loud music was playing, and there were booths set up as far as the eye could see. A little kid, no older than five, whizzed by me on a skateboard and I had to laugh.
"There you guys are! I've been looking all over!"
I turned and saw Amanda. "We practically had to park in the next state. I can't believe the crowd!"
She smiled. "It's quite the event, isn't it? Mark's practicing over at the half pipes if you want to watch him. Or we can wait until the competition starts. He says that we can get free stuff at all the booths. Want to check it out?"
"Sure, let's check out the freebies," I said. We walked along the paths, stopping at each booth. I felt bad for being so surprised at how friendly everyone was. We were given piles of free stickers, and also got sunglasses, energy drinks, slap
bracelets, hair chalk, bandannas, temporary tattoos, and even a bag to put it all in.
"Why all the free stuff?" Cliff asked.
"It's advertising," I said. "All of the brands have their labels on the stuff."
"That's very clever."
Someone announced very loudly over the speakers that the competition was starting. "Let's go watch!" Amanda said, grabbing my arm and pulling me towards the crowd of people waiting to watch. She found Mark, and we all said our hellos.
"When do you compete?" Cliff asked.
"My division is last, so we have to wait for all the kids to compete. Then the teen girls will be next and finally the teen boys."
"There are a lot of people here," I said. "How do you think you'll do?"
"I've competed against most of these guys before, so I know what I'm up against. Most likely, I'll place. Probably not first this time, because there's one guy here who's about to go pro. I can't wait until he does, then he won't be able to compete in these amateur comps anymore!"
"Look at those kids," I said. "I can't believe the stunts they're doing!"
"Those are called tricks, and yeah, those little dudes are serious. They've been skating since they could walk."
The judges were commenting on the tricks over the loudspeakers. I thought that it would be distracting, but it didn't seem to faze the kids at all. I guessed they were used to all the noise.
As I watched the little skaters, I saw a familiar face on the other side of the crowd.
"Excuse me," I said. I let go of Cliff's hand and pushed my way through the thick crowd. "What are you doing here, Tanner?"
"I'm just enjoying some cute little skaters doing some awesome tricks. What are you doing?" he asked with a smile.
I put my hands on my hips. "You just happen to be here, at this skate board competition, a full hour away from home? Since when do you like skateboarding?"
"Since when do you like skateboarding?"
"Don't answer my question with a question. What are you doing here?"
He grinned. "I just couldn't stay away from you."
I raised an eyebrow. "So you came to watch me spend time with Cliff?"
He frowned. "Look, this wasn't my idea. Our parents cooked this up. Your parents want to make sure that you're keeping your word, and my mom apparently just wants me to suffer."
"You should have at least brought your brother. He'd probably enjoy it here."
"I did. I'm babysitting—double duty."
"You're not babysitting me! You're spying. Keep that straight."
"Alexis, I know. It wasn't my idea, remember? The last thing that I want to do is watch you and Cliff holding hands and looking at each other like…like nothing else exists. As I said, my mom wants me to suffer."
I could see the pain in his eyes. "Tanner, the last thing that I want is for you to suffer. I'm going to stay here all day with Amanda and Mark. He's competing last, so we're not going anywhere. Don't watch us. Don't do that to yourself. I'll get home safely; everything will be fine."
"Believe me. I don't want to watch you two."
"I'll make sure that I don't get into any trouble. Just go and have fun with your brother and forget I'm here. Then go home and tell them that I kept my word. I'll make it up to you by going hunting with you guys tonight."
He smiled. "You'll go with us tonight?"
"I just fed, but sure. It'll be like a snack."
He made a face. "Don't tell me about that. I don't agree with the killing."
"They're not innocents; I'm doing humans a favor. They've all either hurt people or were planning on it."
"Whatever you have to tell yourself," he said, staring me down.
I could feel my eyes flash red. "This isn't a discussion that I want to have with you. It isn't going to go well. You know exactly why my cravings are so strong. You played a part in that, a pretty significant part at that. I'm not blaming you entirely; the other vamps had a part in it, too. Just don't judge me."
"Okay, okay."
"I'll see you tonight."
"I'm sorry, Alexis."
"I know. That's why I'm still going to meet you." I walked back to my double date.
"What's he doing here?" Cliff asked.
"My parents sent him to spy on me."
Mark looked at me like I'd grown another nose.
"I'm grounded, but they agreed to let me come here because I'd planned this before getting in trouble. Now I have a spy."
He nodded.
"He didn't have to agree to spy on you," Amanda said.
"No, but he's grounded too."
"You guys are both grounded?" Mark asked.
I sighed. "It's a long story. Anyone want more energy drinks? I'll get them."
"I'll go with you," Cliff said.
"I didn't know that Tanner was going to be here," I told him as we walked.
"It looked like your discussion got heated. Is everything okay?" He put his arm around me.
I stopped and hugged him. "Thank you for being so understanding."
He kissed the top of my head. "Anything for you, my princess."
I looked into his eyes. "You're so wonderful. That's what I love about you."
He cupped my chin in his hand. "I love everything about you, even your spirit for adventure, which continually leads to trouble. It always has." He smiled.
We both laughed. I reached for his hand and we walked along the path, oblivious of the loud music and skateboarders zipping past us.
"Look at that line at the energy drink booth," he said. It wrapped around two other booths.
"Looks like skaters like free energy drinks! Should we go to the sub shop down the road and get lunch for Amanda and Mark, too?"
"I'd rather wait here and look at you."
A smile spread across my face. "I'd rather kiss you."
"I'd like to run my hands through your hair."
I ran my hand through his short, gelled hair. "I'd like to kiss every inch of your face."
"I want to nibble on your ears." He cleared his throat. "Let's go to that sub shop after all."
We took each other's hands and started walking. I saw Tanner with his brother at a nearby booth.
Looks like someone could use a cold shower.
I glared at Tanner. Why are you watching us? Don't torture yourself.
I wasn't trying to. You were way over there.
I smelled the stench of werewolves. I stopped to see if I could tell where it was coming from.
I can smell that, too. Where are they?
"What's wrong?" Cliff asked me.
"Can you smell that? Werewolves are here."
"You would know."
Everyone was a critic. "Thanks," I said and pulled my hand out of his.
"I'm sorry, Alexis. I didn't mean it. I think I'm on edge because Tanner showed up."
"Cliff, I only have eyes for you. Would you feel better if I told him that again?"
I could see Tanner out of the corner of my eye. He was smirking at Cliff's insecurity.
I grabbed Cliff's face and pressed my lips onto his. He surprised me by wrapping his arms around me and pulling me close as we continued to kiss. I could feel his every curve. Breathlessly, I reached for his hair and started running my hands through it. I breathed in his scent deeply, he smelled of pine and maple. He started to open his mouth and then pulled away abruptly.
"I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Please don't kiss me like that again."
My eyes filled with tears. "You're going to blame this on me?"
His eyes softened and he held my hand. "I can't control my passion for you. That's why I need to make sure that we stay completely proper. It will only take a second of your sweetness for me lose my control altogether. My passion is an all-consuming fire that can't be put out. I need to keep it under control until we marry. I need your help, princess."
"My passion for you is a raging fire, too, Cliff. I'll do my best to help you, but I can't wait forever."
"I'll talk with my fathe
r and see if there are plans yet for the wedding. Did you say something about werewolves?"
I noticed that Tanner had disappeared. He had deserved to see our show of affection after gloating over Cliff's insecurity. "Yeah, I did. Can't you smell them?"
"I've never even seen a werewolf. They've been hiding for centuries, and I've only been around for a couple of decades."
I smiled at him and winked. "It sounds so romantic when you say it like that. You could just say 24 years, but you speak of decades and centuries. It makes me want to kiss you again. Please, just one more."
"Let's go to that sub shop. Now!"
I suppressed a giggle. "Let me just text Amanda and let her know what we're doing." I grabbed my phone from my purse and saw that I already had a text waiting for me. I wasn't surprised that I hadn't heard it over the music. I opened the text and saw that it was from a blocked number and only had one word: Hussy.
That wasn't a word that anyone used anymore. It had to be Cliff's mother. I could feel anger rising and I swore to myself that I would make her pay for the messages. Even if I had to wait until I was queen. It was unacceptable and she knew it.
"Is everything okay?" Cliff asked, his face full of concern.
"It's another mystery message." I showed him the text. "Do you think it's your mother?"
"Possibly. I'll discuss these messages with my father tonight when I talk to him about planning the wedding. Now that you've completed the transformation, I don't see any reason to wait."
"Me neither. I can't wait!" I looked at him with eager eyes.
"I think you should go to the sub shop with Amanda. I don't know what's going on today, but I can't stand up against this temptation. You're too much for me."
I pouted. "I'll be good. I promise. I won't hold your hand or bring up kissing you anymore. I won't even think about it. Well, I might think about it. But I won't share those thoughts with you. Please, I can't bear to be away from you."
He laughed. "How can I say no to that? Let's go and let's talk about those werewolves. That'll keep my mind where it should be."
"My mind's already there."
"Alexis! Stop, please. What's gotten into you today?"
"You!" I batted my eyelashes at him.
"Let's get those subs."
The Transformed Box Set: Books 1, 2, 3, 3.5 Page 51