The Howling

Lena walked out the front door leaving Kyle standing in the living room alone. He chased after her as she climbed into the car. Before he could stop her she tore out of the driveway and headed for the expressway. She didn’t know where she was going, she just felt like she had to go. She wanted away from the life that had plagued her existence for far too long. There was a hole in her soul that wasn’t going to heal by sitting still. She didn’t look in the rear view mirror as she left the past behind her and just drove on.

Lena drove south and then headed east through New Mexico and into Texas. She didn’t stop driving, even though she was exhausted and the day had given away to the night. She pushed herself forward into the darkness and away from her past. The night turned back into day as she neared the end of Texas. Her old Monte Carlo finally quit before she was ready to give up driving. She coasted to a stop just off I-10 in a little town in Texas.

Lena abandoned her car there. She rented another car, filled up the gas tank and hit the road again. She passed the Texas, Louisiana state line and continued on into the growing darkness. Fog rolled in causing her to have to slow down. She could no longer see the road in front of her. Louisiana in the middle of the night was far from enchanting.

Lena drove through fog so thick she couldn’t see the hood of her own car. It drizzled on and off but the windshield wipers couldn’t keep the glass clean enough. She was too tired to keep driving in the horrid weather and planned on pulling off the expressway the next chance she got.

Lena rubbed her tired eyes. When she regained her focus she saw that the rain had ceased. But in front of her car, just inside the fog, she could make out the shape of a man. She yanked the wheel. The car swerved, hit the guard rail and went over the edge. As she fell for what felt like forever the last thing she thought was;

Well crap… and then there was darkness.

Lena opened her eyes. It was pitch black and she was cold. She shivered and slid down deeper into the comforter. It was fluffy and black and felt like feathers. She warmed up a little.

There was pain everywhere. Her head ached, her back screamed out in agony, and she could barely move her arms. She remembered then, the car; she had fallen into an abyss. In a panic, she screamed.

The door opened, a small candle on a tray seemed to float through the darkness. The soft light reflected off the pale skin of a thin man, as he carried it to the table beside the bed.

“You’re awake.” He spoke softly as he took the candle and lit the oil lamp beside her.

“I had worried for some time that you would not.”

“I’m sorry.” She replied weakly. She winced as she tried to sit up.

“Drink this, it’ll help with the pain.” He said as he put the cup in her hand.

It was warm to the touch. “What is it?” She asked.

“Herbal tea, I made it for you, please drink.”

“Thank you, but I really have to go.” She put the cup back on the table.

“There is nowhere more important for you to be other than here, resting.” He explained from behind his shield of long raven black hair.

“It’s been two nights since you fell into the bayou where I found you.”

“Oh shit, I really have to go. He’s going to be so angry. Where’s my phone?”

Lena tried to get out of the bed. It took her breath away as the pain shocked through her bandaged rib cage. Her head began to pound to the rhythm of her heart until she thought for sure she would vomit. He placed his hand softly on her shoulders and eased her back onto the pillow.

“There’s no phone. I was only able to save you. You’re lucky to live. Your friend will accept that. Now, please drink and rest. Your pain saddens me.” He replied as he placed the cup back in her hands.

She drank it as she thought of a reply. “You’re right. Thank you for helping me.”

“You’re welcome Miss Lena.” He replied.

For an instant she thought she saw him blush. The light shifted again to show his brilliant eyes. She couldn’t see the color of them but the way they shined even in the darkness was enchanting.

“I don’t think I know your name.” She admitted.

“I am Vlad. You rest now. At first light I will return to check on you.” He took the candle and the empty tea tray and slipped quietly away.

“I think I’ve rested enough.” She protested to the silence.

The next thing Lena knew was the light pouring in through the window. She hadn’t realized she had fallen back asleep. She looked up to see Vlad had drawn back the large curtains and let in the light of day.

“I will wait for you outside.” He scampered out.

Lena slid from under the blanket and realized why he had been in such a hurry to go. The only covering she had was the bandage around her ribs. She blushed profusely and pushed herself through the pain toward the box he had left for her. Inside was a purple satin dress. She slipped into it, feet first, and attempted to stand. She struggled to stay on her feet but managed to pull the sleeves up on her shoulders.

There were no shoes. Lena sighed and leaned against the bed post using it as leverage to make it to the mirrored dresser. Her arms were covered in bruises and scrapes. There was a gash just above her right eye and bruising on her temple. She could see the black and blue mark on her left shoulder where the seat belt had caught her. In-between that and the airbag it explained her cracked ribs. The blow to her head explained the memories that she was missing from the days after the accident.

Lena pushed her way along the dresser to the door, her bare feet placed firmly on the hardwood floor to propel her forward. She turned the knob and lost her balance. Vlad caught her and pulled her close.

“Thank you,” She yelped.

“Perhaps it is a bit soon for you to be up.” He smiled.

“I’m fine.” She smiled back.

“You alright to walk?”

“I’m sure going to try.” She laughed instantly regretting it as the pain surged through her ribs.

“You must be hungry.” Vlad said as he loosened his grip to be more of moral support.

“I am.” She leaned into him and limped down the hall by his side.

They made their way into the kitchen. Vlad helped Lena into the chair and walked around to light the old stove. As it heated up the water in the percolator, he fried them up a few eggs. She watched him as he worked silently, a fluid motion of grace and wonder.

“You’re alone here?” She asked as he poured their tea.

“I am. Not many visitors to this island.”

“We’re on an island.” She smiled. “I don’t remember. How was it that you found me?”

“Magic,” He smiled. “Now you eat.”

“Alright, I’ll eat.” She devoured everything on her plate before speaking again.

“I don’t believe in magic.” She sighed.

“This coming from the woman that chases those who do not want to be found.” He laughed.

“How did you know about that?”

“Magic is all around if you know how to listen.” He shrugged and changed the subject.

“More tea?” Vlad asked.

“Yes, it does seem to help.” She gasped.

The tea pot hovered before them. It tipped, poured her a refill and then returned to the fire.

“Holy shit.” She murmured.

“I said it was magic.” He replied.

“I didn’t believe it.” She grinned. “Show me more.”

“Ok.” He held out his hand.

Lena took Vlad by the hand. She felt the pain melt away as she became nearly weightless. They stood, and in unison, walked without effort into the gardens.

“I don’t understand. How are you doing this?” She asked.

“Around us the energy lives. I am able to use it.” He began.

“It was how you were made safe. The spirits told me to save you. Can you hear them?” He asked.

“No,” She replied.

“Be still and listen.”

Lena stood perfectly still. The wind picked up. As she closed her eyes, it blew her hair in tangles around her face. With it came the whispers. At first she couldn’t make out any words and then they became clearer.

Heretic… witch… demon… wake up!

Lena’s eyes snapped open. Her hand slipped away from Vlad’s hand causing the pain to come rushing back. She hit the soft grass, hard. He fell beside her.

“Too soon, I’m sorry.” He wrapped his arms around her.

“My fault, I heard it. They’re real.” She coughed as she tried to catch her breath.

“You must rest.” He pleaded.

“I’m tired of resting.” She protested as she finally caught his eye.

He froze as they sat there looking at each other. Lena reached up and brushed his hair behind his ear. He shivered from her touch.

“You hide here to be safe from them.” She said.

“They come for me anyways.” He replied.

“You could have stayed alone.”

“You would be dead.”

“I’m not afraid to die Vlad.”

“No, you’re afraid to live.”

Lena had no reply. She was shocked by his words. Vlad lifted her into his arms and carried her back inside. Was he right? She wondered. For so long she had kept faith in finding answers. In the end it had left her bitter and alone. The memories haunted her, teased her just beyond her ability to see it. She didn’t know what was real anymore.

Vlad mixed up a black paste. He added a bit more water to the mixture and kept mashing until he was pleased with the consistency.

“You’re right.” Lena said as he applied the paste to the gash on her head.

“I don’t want to be in the world anymore. I no longer believe it has a place for me. I feel nothing. It’s like I’m already dead.”

“The world is full of cold spots.” He agreed.

Lena laughed, winced and then shrugged. If anything at least Vlad understood wanting to be alone. She let the silence wash over them. When he finished patching up her wounds he turned away. She wanted to say something to him but was still at a loss for words.

“You’re not going to rest?” He asked.

“No,” She replied.

“Why not?”

“Curiosity I guess.” She smiled.

“I don’t understand.” He pouted.

“If you want I could explain or is it you rather I leave you alone?” She asked.

“I want for nothing.” He said.

“I want to know things.”

“Then you should ask.” He smiled.

She thought about it for a moment then replied.

“Why stop being alone now?”

“You ask strange questions.” He laughed.

“How long were you alone before they said I needed saving?”

“Ten years since I have come here. I was not expecting someone to come or that it would be in the condition that you are in.”

“Do you think they did it?”

“Those that whisper have been known to do many things that I would not dismiss.”

“I’m glad you saved me.”

“As am I,” He played with his hair shyly.

“What is it Vlad?” She asked.

“All the people I have seen have fear. But, not you,” He replied shaking his head in confusion.

“I should fear. I just don’t. I’ve lived life so hard that I have none left.”

“I mourn for you.” He replied.

“I grow tired of waking up to find that everything I felt was a lie.”

“What of the friend who would have you for dead?”

“You mean my editor, not friend. He depends on my work not me.”

“That’s sad.” He sighed. “It will be dark soon.”

“I know, I should rest.”

“I was thinking supper and a drink. But if you’re tired.” He smiled.

“You got me.” She smiled.

“Come with me.” Vlad took her by the hand and led her into the dining room.

Candles in silver holders lined the table. When they walked in, they flared up and cast light across the room. Lena stared at the banquet of food before them. Turkey, fish, fruit, and deserts were scattered across the large table. Her eyes lit up when she saw the bottle of Johnny Walker red sitting next to two whiskey glasses in front of the window.

Vlad held out Lena’s chair for her. He poured the whiskey as she filled their plates. They ate and drank in content silence. Outside the window the sun set on the day. As the darkness closed in, he escorted her to her room. She kissed his cheek softly and disappeared inside to sleep.

The early morning light poured in on the crimson carpet. Lena had not recalled leaving the curtains open. She opened her eyes as a crow called out somewhere outside her window. With a smile, she sat up, stretched and winced as her rib cracked.

“Son of a,” She hissed.

The dress was wrinkled. Lena had forgotten to take it off before she crawled into bed. She stood and slipped out of it. On the edge of the bed an emerald green sundress hung on the post. Again, Vlad had anticipated her need and delivered it to her. She pulled it on and made her way down the hall.

The house was quiet. Lena stood still for a moment and listened. The floor creaked in the room three doors down from hers. She went to investigate. The door was open. She peeked in to find Vlad standing in the center of the room. He hovered over a glass bowl on an antique oak pedestal.

When Vlad moved, he appeared to be as fluid as the air around him. Lena watched as his body swayed. His shoulders rippled as his arms moved across the bowl. He crossed them over his chest, fingers spread outward as he mouthed words she could not understand.

Suddenly, Vlad stopped. He turned to find that Lena was intensely watching his every move. He didn’t appear at all surprised as she stuttered to attention.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt.” She shivered.

He smiled, “Come in, you’re not interrupting at all. I’ll show you.” He motioned for her to join him.

“Alright,” She smiled back at him.

Lena made her way across the room to stand next to Vlad. He took her by the hand and slid behind her.

“Future or past?” He asked.

“Um, future,” She replied.

Vlad picked up a pin and pricked the index finger of Lena’s right hand. She yelped and hissed as the puncture brought a spring of blood to the surface. He took her hand and moved it to the edge of the bowl. With her bleeding finger he traced the edge of the bowl in a clockwise manner.

“Close your eyes and concentrate.” He spoke. “Let it flow through you.”

Lena nodded as Vlad continued to direct her hand around the bowl. Her skin began to tingle and then grow warm. He pulled her hand away and spoke softly.

“Look,”

Lena opened her eyes. Within the shimmering water an image had appeared to them. As the ripples settled she realized what they were looking at. She lay in Vlad’s arms in the oncoming light of day. As he kissed her head she whispered to him.

“I don’t want this to end.”

Lena turned around and looked at Vlad. She couldn’t believe what was right before her eyes. He was blushing profusely apparently as surprised as she was. When he took his hand away the image faded, returning the smooth surface to clear water once again.

“Was it real?” She asked as he stepped away.

“Could be,” He replied. “The strange thing about the future is every decision made can change it.”

“I see,” She replied with a smile. “I’ll let you get back to what you were doing.”

“You don’t have to leave.” He said as she turned to go.

“No, I don’t suppose I have to.” She replied as she turned back with a smile.

All at once the pain was everywhere, coursing through Lena’s body and pounding in her brain. Images and words flooded together pulsing like a bright light as she was instantly overwhelmed.

Keith, Jack, Kyle, she could see them all so clearly. The fights, the love, all of the emotions dug in deeply. Barry, Damion, and their betrayal washed over her as the spirits whispered. Death, lies, hate, run… here they come!

“Lena,” Vlad called out as she fell into his arms.

“Make it stop.” She begged and then fainted.

When Lena opened her eyes again, she found that the pain had ceased. From the appearance of light at the window she could tell she had slept the entire night away. Vlad sat in a chair across the room with his head leaning on his hand. She figured he had fallen asleep there watching over her. As she pushed herself into a sitting position he opened his eyes.

“Good morning,” Lena smiled at him softly.

“Are you alright?” He asked.

“I think so,” She replied. “You didn’t have to stay with me.”

“No, I didn’t.” He blushed. “There are things in your head that want out. I brought you something that I thought might help.”

Vlad pointed to the stack of paper on the desk behind him. There was an ink well and an old quill pen beside it. Lena smiled at his thoughtfulness.

“Thank you.”

“You are welcome. If you wish there is a bath for you. I can bring you new clothes and bandages when you are finished.”

“I’d like that. Will you show me where?” She asked.

“Of course,” He replied as he helped her to her feet.

Vlad led Lena across the hall and into the bathroom. The white porcelain tub was filled with steaming hot water. He excused himself quickly and closed the door behind him. She stepped out of the dress and turned to look at herself in the full length mirror.

As Lena un-wrapped the bandage around her rib cage she hissed out in pain. A solid purple bruise covered most of her chest. It held to the form of the steering wheel. She thought it to be ironic at best and ever more painful knowing where the pain had come from. The gash above her eye appeared to be healing well. The paste Vlad kept applying to her cuts was working. It might be good enough to keep her from having a scar.

The bruise on Lena’s shoulder that was caused by the seat belt had begun to turn yellow. She reached up and ran her fingers across it. She instantly decided it was a bad idea. The pressure of her fingertips caused pain to shoot down her arm. She gave up admiring the damage she had done to herself and settled into the hot water. The bubbles rippled as she shifted her weight and got comfortable. The warmth soaked into her skin as she rested. The pain eased and she closed her eyes.

Vlad returned to his library. Even though it contained volumes of books he rarely used one. It had been several decades since he had the necessity. Magic was in his core; it was what he knew and he did it well. So well in fact, that he continued to cheat the aging effects of time as long as he remained within the protective circle he had created on the island. It was just one of the many reasons that had kept him away from the outside world.

The things Vlad commanded, spirits, elements, even demons and angels, had kept an eye on the world for him. It had been them that spoke to him of a future that included Lena. They had guaranteed to him that his solitude would soon be over. Now that she was with him, and he had shown her what he had seen, he wanted to do everything within his power to keep her. That’s why he worked through her bath to create things that would make her life easier.

Vlad opened the door of the large oak cabinet and reached up to the top shelf. The bag he lifted free contained the powdered ingredients necessary to create something out of nothing. All that was required for him to complete the task was his imagination. He closed his eyes and pictured something nice for Lena to wear. When he knew for certain the picture was clear, he pinched the dust between his finger and thumb, and then cast it into the air.

When Vlad opened his eyes he found himself pleased. With a smile he picked up the dress and bandages then made his way back to the bathroom. He stood outside the door for a few moments to gather his courage. Although he had already seen Lena naked the first time he had dressed her wounds, she had not been awake. This time he was uncertain how they would both feel about the situation. He blushed, mustered up his courage, and knocked on the door.

“Come in,” She called out.

Vlad opened the door and stepped inside. Lena, completely covered in bubbles, turned and watched as he hung the dress over the mirror. She instantly liked it. It was a one sleeve toga style dress that flowed down in ripples. The left side ended at the knee and the right side slit up her thigh. She smiled, ready to try it on, and climbed from the bath.

Vlad blushed and averted his eyes as Lena reached for the towel and began to dry herself off. When she noticed his reaction she nearly laughed out loud.

“I’m sorry. I thought it wouldn’t bother you.” She said as she wrapped up in the towel.

“It’s alright,” He blushed brighter.

“It’s just I know you saw it before and, oh hell,” She sighed causing him to chuckle.

“You’re right. I have another bandage for you if you want it.” He spoke.

“Yes thank you. Could you help me with it?” She asked.

“Alright,” He replied.