Aphrodite

In her room, Rachel paced, her mind tangled in panic. Her hands trembled as she grappled with the nightmare of the Abaddon and the leech. Desperation nudged her towards calling her mother, clinging to a sliver of hope for a magical solution. Yet, reality cornered her with Vlad as her sole confidante, his unpredictable reaction petrifying her.

Rachel shied away from seeking Darius’s help, turning instead to Myus as her solitary hope amidst the darkness. His deep understanding of the Abaddon made him an invaluable ally. Driven by a desperate need for solutions, she was willing to overlook her hesitations. By choosing Myus, she could avoid entangling with the vampires—a compromise she accepted, even at the risk of awakening Vlad’s hunger.

Navigating her anxiety, she pondered how to reach Myus’s eerie house in the woods. Without a car and no rentals available at such an early hour, her options dwindled. Even the slim chance of hailing a taxi fell short, knowing no driver would venture all the way.

Under the looming threat of the Abaddon, Rachel’s bond with Vlad, both intense and comforting, fuelled her urgency. Deciding to borrow Vlad’s car, she hailed a taxi outside her apartment, the morning sun casting a warm glow amidst the solitude of early joggers.

With Vlad’s address a blurry memory, she and the taxi driver navigated the city’s maze. Despite a few missteps, they eventually reached their destination.

The building towered over the city, its modern lines cutting a striking figure against the skyline. Slipping inside proved surprisingly easy; she waited for a resident to exit and slipped in behind them. Yet, making it to Vlad’s floor was a different story. With limited apartments on his level, she had to charm the security guard to escort her up.

She knocked on Vlad’s door. Almost immediately, Vlad opened it, his eyes filled with curiosity. “It wasn’t long ago that I dropped you off, and you’re back already?” His raised eyebrows hinted at his intuition that something was amiss.

She breezed past Vlad into the living room, intent on her mission. “I need to borrow your car.”

As Vlad closed the door and followed, his confusion was evident. “For what purpose?”

“I need to do something,” she replied, her eyes darting around in search of his keys.

Vlad closed the gap between them. “What’s going on?” he pressed, sensing her evasion. When she remained silent, he wrapped his arms around her waist, drawing her close and securing her arms by her sides.

Her eyes met his, now filled with genuine concern. “What’s troubling you?”

She faltered, “I... I just need to use your car.”

“What happened, Rachel? Don’t lie to me.”

Rachel was acutely aware that Vlad would demand explanations before lending his car, yet disclosing the truth risked his interference.

She tried to pull away, but his embrace was firm. “I need to use your car,” she repeated. “I have a family emergency.” Her eyes shifted away, struggling to meet his, as she sensed his efforts to unravel the truth, to sway her from her path.

“But your parents are overseas?”

She lifted their hands to her chest. “Please.”

Unexpectedly, Vlad let go. Surprised, Rachel looked up into his eyes, and something shifted within her. She reached for his hands, weaving her fingers through his, and this time, he allowed it, offering no resistance.

Just as Vlad was about to speak, a brief flicker of purple flashed in his eyes. He cocked his head, offering a small, hesitant smile. It was clear he was torn, reluctant to agree yet compelled. “Of course, Aphrodite. What is mine is yours,” he conceded,

Rachel let go of his hands, stepping back as Vlad remained motionless. She moved toward the kitchen, glancing over the breakfast bar where she spotted his keys. Seizing them, she turned back to Vlad, half expecting him to resist her influence. Yet, there he stood, evidently under her spell.

“Thank you.”

A pang of guilt washed over her as he nodded in acknowledgment, his expression betraying his inner turmoil. Aware that she was using her enchantment on him, Rachel knew this moment would have repercussions.

Rachel paused at the door, the weight of her actions pressing heavily on her heart. She recognised the gravity of what she’d done, yet the direness of her circumstances gave her no alternative. With a heavy heart and a deep breath for courage, she left Vlad’s apartment, gently closing the door behind her.

Rachel made a beeline for the basement and was soon navigating the highway in Vlad’s car. The path to Myus seemed straightforward, with a single road leading to the national park and the distinct turnoff to his cottage clear in her mind.

Reaching the national park in the morning light brought a temporary sense of peace, the sun casting a serene glow over her drive. Yet, as she delved deeper into the forest, the diminishing light ominously hinted at how quickly circumstances could shift.

Arriving at the quaint cottage, Rachel observed the birds in the trees, second-guessing her decision. She hoped Myus would prove to be an ally rather than a threat.

Despite the early hour, the area remained cloaked in darkness, as if sunlight dared not breach this part of the forest. Exiting the car, Rachel felt an eerie chill; the eyes of a moon-faced owl bore into her, filled with an ominous warning. Their hoots followed her as she walked the path to the cottage, vigilant observers of her every step.

Rachel was taken aback to find Myus awaiting her in the doorway, the dark interior behind him blending with the forest’s gloom. An owl’s sudden flight close by made her spin in defence, only to see it settle on a nearby branch.

Rachel tried to dismiss the unsettling presence of the creatures, focusing on Myus instead. “How about investing in some lights?”

He flashed a mischievous grin. ” Ever heard of calling at a normal time of the day? I had only just gone to bed. I am a night creature, after all.”

She quipped back, “Clearly. You’ve got this whole sun-blocking thing down pat.

“Are you going to come in? Or do you want to stay out there with my pets?” His tone was playful yet edged with a challenge.

The thought of his ‘pets’ sent a shiver down her spine. “Pets? That’s what we’re calling them?” With reluctance, she moved closer to the doorway, her eyes adjusting to the darkness. Squinting, she thought she could discern the contours of an unclad muscular torso. “Still rocking the youth look, huh? Is that my essence at work?”

His laugh had a chilling undertone, setting Rachel on edge. He moved aside, allowing her just enough space to slip by. Blinded by the darkness, she paused near the entrance, uncertain. “What’s wrong, Aphrodite? Can’t find your way?”

“Is this how you treat all your visitors? It’s pitch black in here.”

“You realise you have the power to light the path yourself, right?”

She turned towards him, bewildered. “What do you mean?”

“You are a creature of love, lust and birth. Your essence can be used to lighten your path.”

“That sounds like a cliché.”

“It may be cliché, but you light up my world. You’ve made me feel young again. I’ve been a bitter old man for years.”

“So how do I do it?” she asked.

“I don’t know. I don’t have the ability. I usually do not need light as I have no body. I chose one to conform to your needs.”

“I wouldn’t know; that’s not within my capabilities. I generally don’t require light, as I don’t possess a physical form. I’ve assumed one now, simply to accommodate you.”

Rachel sensed he was dragging his feet deliberately, keen to prolong their interaction, but she was eager to cut it short. “This is absurd. Can’t you just turn on a light?”

“We’re off the grid here. No electricity,” he replied matter-of-factly.

Rachel couldn’t help but roll her eyes, fighting the urge to express her annoyance more physically. “Then how about a candle? It was perfectly bright when Darius was here.” Fed up, Rachel reached for the door to leave. As her hand brushed the handle, the idle light bulbs above suddenly sparked to life, bathing the room in a gentle light. Surprised, her annoyance faded as she gazed upwards, fascinated by the sudden glow.

“It seems your powers are closely tied to your emotions. You have much to learn,” Myus remarked, his touch light on her cheek. In his current form, influenced by her essence, he was strikingly attractive.

She settled herself on the couch, watching as Myus took a seat across from her, his eyes filled with an undisguised warmth and admiration that he directed solely at her.

“What do you know of the leech?”

Myus’s expression darkened, his complexion losing colour. “What have your vampire told you?”

“I want to hear it from you. I know you’ll tell me the truth. You want my essence, and you’ll give me the information I need.”

He seemed to struggle with his response. “The leech serves the Abaddon. To call it a creature might even be a stretch. It dwells at the boundary of our world and others, capable of traversing these realms. What happened?”

Distractedly fidgeting with her nails, Rachel shared, “It ambushed me at home. It recognised me... what I truly am. I feared it was going to kill me.”

Myus exhaled deeply, the weight of the situation evident. “If the leech has found you, the Abaddon will follow. It’s inevitable. The vampires won’t be enough to shield you.”

Rachel’s voice trembled with urgency, “There has to be a way to protect myself. How much time do I have?” Myus’s solemn demeanour intensified her fear.

His gaze intensified, colours swirling and breaking apart. “A battle erupted many centuries ago between the Abaddon and a creature of light. The creature managed to destroy the Abaddon’s earthly body. He can return, but it will cost him dearly to get here. Keep in mind, he is the embodiment of destruction. He has no regard for anything beyond oblivion.”

“A creature destroyed him? Can this creature help me?”

“The creature has never helped any Aphrodite. It may be a creature of the light, but it believes that sacrifices must be made.”

Rachel inhaled deeply, trying to steady her thoughts. She was a novice compared to the ancient entities she had encountered, each brimming with centuries of insight. The daunting task of seeking out this creature, with her limited understanding of her own powers, overwhelmed her.

“So why kill the Abaddon?”

With a nonchalant shrug, Myus settled more comfortably. “The Abaddon got greedy. He tried to take the creature’s mate. He had no business being involved with her, but he’s known for his selfishness. I doubt he cared that his body was destroyed until you showed up.”

“Why don’t the creatures of the light kill these things? Why let them live?”

“Balance. We all need to embark on journeys, face trials and tribulations. What seems evil to you might not be evil to something else. Beings of light aren’t enemies of those from the darkness; the vampires should have taught you that. The Abaddon thrives on destruction, and you on birth and love. You know what they say—opposites attract.” Myus grinned wickedly.

“What does he want with me?”

Myus’s shift from concern to laughter was disconcerting, making Rachel uneasy. It seemed his peculiar choice of companions had influenced his behaviour. “The ironic thing is, no matter how much war you wage, at the end of the day, we all just want to ensure our species’ survival. A creature with no physical body in this world cannot create a dynasty without someone of your abilities.”

Rachel was stunned. “He... wants a child with me? That’s the root of it all? The fate of past Aphrodites boiled down to this task? It seems too straightforward. Have a child, and my purpose is fulfilled?”

“You have to bond to him. I must admit I do not know as much about the Aphrodites. Bonds are a powerful thing, and as you know, you share essence and emotions. There are stories of Aphrodites committing suicide to run from him.”

“What does he do on earth? Why is everyone so afraid of him?”

Myus’s laughter had a chilling effect. “Read the legends. He has obliterated cities from existence. You feed on love, and he feeds on death.”

“Why an Aphrodite? Why not some other creature?”

“I don’t know of any other creatures that possess your abilities. Perhaps you’re too young to grasp life’s intricacies. Is it unreasonable to ask an Aphrodite to embrace darkness for the sake of life? The previous Aphrodites weren’t too self-centered to avoid dark emotions, were they?”

Rachel couldn’t hide her apprehension. “It’s a creature of destruction. Surely its intentions are all in the name? I mean, what would its spawn be like? Is it trying to grow some form of evil being that’s going to obliterate the world?” Expressing her fears aloud did nothing to calm them; understanding the dread the Abaddon inspired only amplified her reluctance to be part of such a dire legacy.

“Love is powerful. It can change the essence of a creature. You’ve already changed me, haven’t you? Perhaps if you face the Abaddon with love, you could change him as well. Make him value life rather than destruction.”

She scoffed, unconvinced by his vague explanation. “That’s it? Just love him to death? Seriously?”

He arched an eyebrow. “Never underestimate love’s power, Aphrodite. Properly wielded, it could be the very tool you need.”

“How am I supposed to love a creature of destruction? It doesn’t make sense.”

Myus’s demeanour softened. “I didn’t claim it would be simple. The path of an Aphrodite is fraught with complexity. Yet, by delving into your own essence, embracing the strength within, you may just uncover a means to overcome him.”

“This is ridiculous. I came here for answers. Not to be told to use love as a weapon. I’m not paying you for this useless advice.”

Myus hesitated, caught off guard by her assertiveness. “You really do want everything handed to you, don’t you?” His posture shifted, his gaze turning icy as he met her challenge, the air crackling with tension.

Just when Rachel thought it couldn’t escalate further, Myus invaded her personal space, his breath tingling against her skin. “What are you doing?” she demanded, trying to push him back.

His eyes, a stormy blend of domination and desire, bore into hers, eerily reminiscent of Vlad’s intense stares. “Time to settle your debt. Did you think you could just barge in and dictate terms?”

Disgusted, she flinched as his spit landed on her face. She attempted to shove him away, simultaneously wiping off the disgusting residue, but he capitalised on her brief vulnerability to draw her closer. Reflexively, she brought her hand up and struck him across the face.

The activation of her protective shield caught her off guard as much as it did Myus, who was suddenly propelled across the room, crashing into the wall with a bone-jarring thud. The room’s lights flared in response to her escalating fury.

Myus let out a pained groan as he detached himself from the wall, rubbing his back. “And this is why bodies are overrated. A shield. Of course, an Aphrodite needs a shield to protect herself from her infatuated suitors.”

Angered, she pressed him for answers. “What is this love nonsense?” Receiving no immediate answer, she advanced on him, her resolve hardened. Myus, still reeling from the impact, scrambled to stand, his composure rattled by her determined approach.

“Okay, okay,” Myus conceded, signaling peace with his uplifted hands. He moved to a small trinket box on a shelf and retrieved a bracelet. The thin, aged gold piece shimmered in his trembling hand, the inscription love conquers all engraved on it.

“What’s this supposed to be? Some silly bracelet? Are you playing games with me?”

With a sly grin, he responded, “It is a charm of the old creatures.”

" What am I supposed to do with it?”

Myus approached, a casual shrug accompanying his words. “The charm was passed to me, yet its true purpose remains unknown to me as well.”

“What was the name of the creature that removed his body from this world?” she asked, captivated by the bracelet’s enchanting shimmer.

“The Phoenix .Do you want it? It’s of no use to me.”

The bracelet ignited a deep, inexplicable need within her, an urgency that felt as vital as breathing. Why was she so drawn to it? It was merely a gold band, after all.

As Myus extended it towards her, his grip faltered, and the bracelet clattered to the ground. Bending to retrieve it, she was caught off guard when Myus grabbed her wrist, his laugh turning malevolent. She writhed, attempting to loosen his grasp.

Then, purple lights began to crawl along her arm, moving towards him. Realising it was too late, she shivered as he moved his head next to her ear and licked her neck with a cold, slimy tongue. “You bring something out in me that just makes me want to have you,” he said with cruel intentions.

He pressed himself against her, breathing on her skin. Despite her efforts to push him away, he was immovable. Her attempts to activate her shield or dislodge him proved futile. Eventually, she managed to free one arm and aimed for his face, but he caught her wrist. He then began to draw her essence out, visible as streams of light moving from her to him.

“Fuck,” she groaned.

“What’s your plan now, little girl?” he taunted, pushing her down. She hit the floor hard, pain shooting through her back.

Grimacing, she prepared to defend herself again, but he was quicker, pinning her down and looming just inches from her face.

As she struggled to break free, darkness emerged. It crept around him, the room’s temperature plummeting. Gasping for breath, she watched as the darkness swallowed the cottage whole. All light vanished, save for the sinister gleam in his eyes.

Her heart raced as she zeroed in on him through the suffocating darkness. He seemed unphased, intent on overpowering her, making her feel trapped in a relentless void. Despite the engulfing shadow, focusing on him served as a reminder of her fight to remain present.

“Not so strong without your vampire, are you?” His voice held a sadistic tone. She had sorely underestimated Myus, a powerful, duplicitous being. He had always known the extent of his strength, deceiving her into thinking she had the upper hand.

As her breathing shallowed, a frost-like sensation crept over her skin, her essence seeping into Myus. Yet, even as darkness sought to claim her, a spark of resistance flared within. She wouldn’t succumb without a fight.

A sudden energy surge coursed through her, a counterforce to the numbing cold. She focused on this inner warmth, urging it to intensify, to liberate her from Myus’ clutches. The room shook as her power swelled. Trembling under the strain, she saw surprise in Myus’ eyes as he felt her burgeoning strength but still, he held on.

Then, she unleashed a brilliant light, dispelling the shadows and hurling Myus across the room. She inhaled deeply, her heart pounding as she attempted to rise.

But the burst of energy had depleted her, leaving her dizzy and weakened. The clarity brought on by her desperate defence began to fade, her surroundings blurring. Her momentary triumph ebbed away, the darkness inching back.

Struggling to stay conscious, her fight dwindling, she felt the encroaching dark and light vie for dominance around her. And as the darkness prepared to reclaim its grasp, her resistance waned until, overwhelmed, she fell into unconsciousness, collapsing in a heap on the floor.