24 Chapter 24

Rowan's POV

I couldn't sleep. Not a wink. Not a doze. Nothing. I can only think about the ways I should've been smarter, faster, stronger. I mulled it over all night ling, rocking Silas all the while, trying to see where I went wrong. I can never let something like this happen. Not this.

SIlas stretches a bit, before stiffening, a ppained cry, escaping his lips. I rub his lower back, soothing the pain as best as I could. He took a break as he slept from feeding, so I tilt my head to the side, giving him room. He doesn't wait, before biting down. I 've noticed that, although I do produce blood of my own, I feel hungry like I have no blood at all. In the middle of the night, Katherine let me feast from her. Truth be told, she tastes like cool ice, with a bite of mint. I can't get enough.

SIlas bites a bit harder, jaws clamped down on just about half of my throat. I simply rub his back, trying to help his pain. it's common sense that the blood of your creator will help you recover, however any blood will do, though the process with be much slower. But for this, I can't say much given that SIlas is heavily wounded.

"Morning," SIlas gasps, resting his head on my shoulder, voice hoarse.

"Morning, Little One," I coo. "Get some more rest. The second part of the trials don't start until later on."

SIlas nods softly, breathing evenly out, before he back sleep.

A light knock sounds before Liam walks in, a huge silver platter in one hand, a wooden stand in the other. The smell is amazing, and my stomach groans in anticiaption. My teeth ache a bit, ready to sink into the meal. Liam sets the stand up, placing the platter down and uncovers it. Steam rolls out, revealing plenty of different food. Three steaks, mashed potatoes with blood gravy, a blood wine--from the looks of it--, with fresh fingers, human finger.

"We have more if you would like," Liam gives a teasing bow.

"Oh this is wonderful," I marvel.

Moving SIlas slightly to the left, I sit up carefully and begin to eat my meal, stuffing my face. ALthough unbecoming of me, I can't seem to care, not when the food tastes this good. I give a low groan, just enraptured by the meal. Before long, Im done, looking sheepishly at Liam.

"I'll be right back with another," He chuckles, taking the empty platter away.

Checking on Silas, he looks to be at ease, although I guess it could be my blood working through him. It's not long before Liam comes back with more food, and in no time I've eaten fours platters of food, before feeling a bit sated.

"Can you brink me something to drink," I request.

Liam holds his arm out, instead. Quirking an eyebrow, I lean forward, and bit into his arm. Liam stiffens a bit, and I smell the faint scent of arousal. His blood gushes into my mouth, giving me a strong, earthy tea taste, with a hint of cool spring water. A small groan slips out my mouth, as I pull back. I lick the blood from my lips, looking at a blushing Liam.

"Everyone was waiting for you two to wake up, however it's not imprtant," Liam assures.

"I can move, however, I would rather keep Silas comfortable, and putting him in clothes much less trying to take him a shower standing on his feet; I don't want to have him go through that."

"We understand, Bubba," Liam looks at me for a moment. "We made a bath just in case you want to wash up ." He steps towards the door.

Having the urge, " . . .I think you my lil Muffin," I tease him lightly.

Liam ears turn red as he rushes out the room.

He;s just too cute.

Relaxing back, I close my eyes, letting silence calm me. I don't know how many, but hours pass by and a firm knock siunds from the door.

"Sir Rowan," Mr. Ward speaks. " They is a meeting being held. You are requested to be there."

Groaning, a bit foggy," I'll be there."

"Mr. Kyro, will wait for you to show you the way."

Easing up, I holding SIlas in my left arm. He shuffles around, wincing with every movement, slowly waking up.

"What's going on?"

"Nothing, bud," I rub his back. "We just got to get clean. Some people want to meet me."

". . You not going to leave me," he whispers.

"Never," I vow, holding him firm for a bit.

I run the water, setting it more on the hot side, to helo lossen his muscles and the stiffness. WHile that's going, I lay Silas on my dark cloud, stomach down as I strip down.

"This may hurt, but I'm going to be quick," I warn. "If it gets too much, feel free to feed from me the whole time."

". . . Won't I 'bleed yoou dry'? Mumma Lilith said that I thinl."

"It's fine," I assure. " I ate plenty this morning, so don't worry."

Silas nods as I pick him up and ease us into the water. Silas hisses as the water reaches is thighs and butt, his hands gripping the side of the tub tight.I move the dark cloud under his hips, relaving some pressure.

"Better?"

"Much," he winces.

I quickly wash it front sie before flipping him over to do the back. Once I get to his butt, SIlas grips begins to crack the tub walls.

Too stubborn.

I raise him by the dark cloud, letting his face lean within my neck.

"Go ahead," I sigh. "Stubborn."

Silas quickly bite into my neck, his body instantly relaxing. Amazing how my blood can help him so much. With him feeling numbed, I contiune to wash him, opening to get the scent and grim from his skin. I know it's going to take a while--if ever-- that he's goes back to begin even a bit of normalcry, but hopefully this cleaning will help with the 'dirty' feeling.

Once he's rinsed, I start my own bath, pulling Silas from me for a moment. When both clean, I get us out, letting the water out, and dry us off. I dress in a white button-up shirt, with black, slightly baggy sweat pants with black socks and shoes. my hair in a messy bun. I dress Silas up in light, baggy black sweat, with a white muscle top on, his hair combed back and out his face.

"We're ready," I called, then look at Silas from on my dark cloud. "You good there, or do you want me to carry you?"

SIlas lowers his head, reaching out his hands. I softly pick him up, lifting his chin," Do not bow your head. You have nothing to be ashamed for. You are my strong one, bud."

Silas gives me a soft smile, his eyes a bit watery.

"Oh don't cry," I coo. "If you want me to pick you up, all you need is ask. I know I haven't been there for you like I said I would, but I'll do better."

"You are the best, daddy," Silas snuggles into my chest. ". . .My 'families' before always gave me back. . .It hurt not being wanted, even when you tried."

"Well I want you," I smile at him. " I want you, Silas. You are my son, and that will never change, as long as you'll have me... scratch that, even if you don't I'll still be your dad."

SIlas beams at me, reaching up and placing his head on my shoulder. All settled, I walk us out the door, follow Mr.Kyro as he leads us down different halls until we get to the first floor.

He takes a left going under the staircase and heads downward. Down the long narrow hall, soft murmurs are hear, but I don't give them a chance to disrupt my thoughts. I trust Mr. Kyro, i have no reason to not trust him, even when the stench of old blood is heavy along the walls.

"This is where I'll have to leave you, Sir Rowan," Mr.Kyro bows. "Be careful, trust only those you know are on your side." Then he vanishes. Giving a firm knock, the doors slide open, giving me a full view of the room.

In the center of the room, commanding all attention, is a fair-skinned woman, who looks to be no more than in her 30-- but immortals ages are always tricky-- years old, with chest long curly pale-blue hair, with a nice figure. Long legs and muscular arms, with a slinder neck. She has a diamond shaped face, with thin pink lips, a straight, bold nose, almond ice- blue eyes, and arched eyebrows. She sits upon a throne, wuite literally looking down on everyone. Along her left and right sits what must be the clan heads, while my soulmates stand in front of them all.

"Seems like the guest of the hours has finally arrived," the Matriarch speaks. "I've heard quite a bit about you, youngblood."

"It's an honor to have someone of your power, notice me," I bow. "Even if in passing."

The Matriarch eyebrows raise, a smile slowly appearing across her face.

"I'm starting to like you," she admits, turning to a man standing to her left. "What is the issue that we need to discuse, now that everyone is here?"

Immediately, the man turns towards me, pointing," He is accused of harming the son of the direct bloodline of the Griffin house. We ask that the Matriarch will hand out the appropriate punishment."

He steps back as the Matriarch looks at me.

"Come forth," she commands.

With eased steps, I step to the front of my soulmates, looking at her.

"Is what said true?"

"I don't deny the claim, Matriarch," I respond.

"See-"

The Matriarch raises her hand, silencing the shouts before they happen.

"For what reason did you, although a noble immortal, who has no background, harm one of the clan head's son?" Her eyes gleam, a small smile playing upon her lips.

"It's simple, Matriarch," I explain. "He kidnapped my son, tortured him brutally and then threatened his life."

The Matriarch turns her head to the far side, awaiting an answer.

"It was only suppose to be a joke," the familiar but horase voice speaks.

"A joke," I scoff. "My son is only 10 years old, and Augustine Griffin thought to get to me, to get to my soulmates, he could use my son's life to force me"

"Now we know of the history that Augustine has had, chasinf after my granddaughter and her mates," the Matriarch clarifies. "However that does not give you the right to harm him."

"Then I will take whatever punishment that the Matriarch deems fit," holding her stare as she looks me up and down.

". . .Five hundred whips. . .from my personal collection chosen by the Augustine his self," she judges.

Katherine goes to rebuke, but I grab her hand," Stop. Do not fight this."

"But my grandmother is known for her whips, many elder immortal not able to even handle five lashes," Her eyes pleading with me.

"It does not matter," I insist. " I am being punished for my deed, but that will not take away the thought. shall it come to it, I will do ahead and take a thousand, in case a slip of the hands should occur."

Grant coughs, holding in a laugh,

"You are a brave one," the Matriarch addresses me. "I shall up the number of lashes to a thousand.Let's see if you can still run your mouth."

I go to hand Silas to Theo, but he clamps onto me tightly.

"You've got to let me go, bud," I try to reason. "You may get hit if you stay with me."

"I don't care," He clenches his teeth. "You promised to never leave me. I think this is leaving me."

Sighing, giving up, maybe a little too easy, I keep him within my arms, wrapping him tightly with my darkness.

"Stay very still," I remind him, him only answering with a little nod against my chest.

"If Matriarch would allow, my son is still hurt from yesterday, I only want to have him close and will use my magic to only cover him," I appeal to her.

" If i should see any use of magic other than as you say," she narrows her eyes at me. "Then I will personally dish out your lashing starting over."

"Thank you, Matriarch," I bow.

Augustine moves to a rack, holding many whips, while I remove my shirt, letting Lilith fold it. I stand, ready, holding a tired Silas in my arms. I compart my darkness, not letting a sound out, however, givving him plenty of air to breathe--although he doesn;t really need it.

Augustine turns around with a whip in hand. Its all black withsharp jaggarded spike along the length of it, seeming to be covered in some liquid, giving it a shiny coat.

"Oh my favorite," the Matriarch mutters. "Augustine, this is your chance. . .Instruct him hpw you please."

" Turn around," Augustine hisses. "Stay standing."

With my back to him, I wait for the first strike to land, back relaxed. I accept the consequences of my actions, and I don't plan on going back on it. Augustine had better hope that these lashes, strike fear in my heart.

Crack!

The first lashes comes, tearing against my back, ripping blood from me. The pain is intense, however not as bad as I thought. But I will never underestimate my enemy again. Thinking the worse, and getting for that, I keep my back relaxed as the next twenty lashes comes across my back, some even wrapping around to my front. Whatever liquid that covers the whip stings my wounds, so much that I can feel them burn to a bit of degree.

Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!

Seventy lashes land rapidly, hitting my along my shoulders, back, my thighs and calfs. Blood trickles down my wounds, but I ignore it. Katherine tries to step forwards, but with a look from me, I stop her. Tears of blood streams from her eyes, Elizabeth hidding in her chest, sobbing herself. Grant and Theo stand stiffly, with Lilith comforting Liam, giving him soothing back rubs, covering his eyes from the scene.

Eight more lashes come, and I'm past the first hundred lashes. Giving my shoulders a wuick roll, I gently rock Silas, letting the blows hit, a muffled groan leaving my lips occasionally when the spikes dig into an already help wound. Lash after lash, I hold firm, my back relaxed. Everyone witnesses the whipping, looking at me. I stare ahead, clearing my mind of all unimportant things. Such as this whipping.

Finally, five hundred lashes counts, and Augustine starts to open his mouth. His breathing a bit heavy.

"You should've let me have them," he snickers. "Damn, peasant."

Crack!Crack!

"How the boy doing, healing alright?" a little laugh there.

Crack!Crack!Crack!

"Maybe I should've marked him, so you'll know how it feels to have something taken away from you."

Crack!Crack!Crack!

My hands clench into fist, as I start to tremble with anger. Katherine attempts to lunge at Augustine, but Theo grabs her, quickly, holding her to his chest.

"Still need your 'soulmates' to protect you," Augustine sneers. "Can't believe they would want someone as weak as you."

On and on, I let him rant and rave, getting it all out of his system. All the while, the lashes come down harder and harder, some even tearing to the bone. Pain begins to actually lace my mind a bit, but I instantly slam my walls down. Lilith jerks her head up, looking at me.

'Don't you dare.'

'I'm sorry Sweets, I would rather you not feel this,' I tease, wincing a bit when the spikes dig a bit deeper.

'Drop them,' Grant hisses. 'Now.'

"No can do, Sugar,' I chuckle. 'It's almost over. . .Just three hu-- make that two hundred and ninety-nine to go.'

Lilith shoots me a glare, anger in her eyes.

'Drop them now, or so help me, I'll- I'll take the punishment myself. '

Immediately, all of my attention snaps to Lilith, a frown resting on my face.

'Five.'

'Four.'

'Lilith, you can't be se-'

'Oh I'm very serious.' She snaps. 'Three.'

". . .Fine. fine,' i sigh, mentally drain from today already, and last time I checked it should only be 2 or 3 o'clock.

Going to the inner world, I lower my first few layers, leaving them bare for my soulmates to see. They approach, slowly, but steady, seeing the pain.

Crack!

The lash hits my lower back, making me for the first time, tense my back-- and it just so happened to be around the whip before Augustine rips it out. Jerking back, a pained gasped leaves my mouth, and Silas shuffles a bit, but I just rock him softly, gritting my teeth. My breath becomes labored as Augustine focuses on that spot, hitting around the area everytime.

'Breathe," Theo frets.

'It's harder than it seems,' I pant. Again, Augustine hits my lower back, ripping out meat, spraying blood across the floor.

"Ten more," The Matriarch speaks up. " Make sure they count."

AUgustine takes a break, rolling his shoulder, crackling the whip a few times, before proceeding.

Crack!Crack!Crack!Crack!

Crack!Crack!Crack!

Crack!Crack!

Crack!

Each lash comes harder than before. I can't help but tense my back, however I don't fall nor move from my spot. Blood seems to pour from me like a river.

"Hmm...Maybe you are not all talk," the Matriarch muses. "Now for the punishment of Augustine Griffin."

Heads whip to her, looking shocked.

"This peasent was in the wrong, dear Matriarch," One clan head speaks, I can;t quite focus with pain racking my brain.

"He had to right to harm our future clan head leader," another voices, standing from their seat.

"You are right, he had no right to harm a future clan head," the Matriarch starts. "However, we have laws. And like those law says, to break up a soulmate bond, regardless of how, could be due process for death. The harming of a newborn, especially an actually child, to such an extent, is unacceptable."

"How can we know that this presant didn't make the boy's injures more than what they actually were?"

"A nurse that treated the boy, has accepted to be a witness within today's meeting," the Martriarch giggles. " Come here, Little Sarah."

The same woman from before that helped with the last dose of medicine appears, kneeling at the feet of the Matriarch. WIthout a word, the Matriarch places her left hand of Sarah's head, and lifts her right hand up in the air. Like strolling down an aisle, the Matriarch stops at a particular point.

"Let's watch."

Everyone focuses on the projectile, as it shows through the nurse's eyes, as everything happens. When Elizabeth and Liam rush into the room holding a fevered and dazed Silas. The choas that happened, and Silas fighting all the while. The screams and wails of his pain. Everyone can see the marks as the nursed looked at the damage. The many bruises around his neck, on his chest, neck, thighs, and ass. The screams she heard as she pulled the hammered nails from his body.

Suddenly, Elizabeth leaves the room, coming back with a wounded Grant, Katherine and Theo. The nurse calls for more help, slightly panicked with the many injured nobles. Giving Silas a rest, she get to Grant, checking is wound. When she sees it's only opened back up, abit wider than before, she has another nurse sow him up, while she heads back to Silas. She tries to ease his pain, to calm him down, but he only calls for his daddy.

Can't wait anymore, the nurse proceeds to push medicine after medicine into Silas, his stomach begining to bloat a bit. She takes a break, letting the medicine asbord into him before going again with another batch. Theo and Katherine help to hold him down, but he still thrashes about, trying to get away from the pain.

Soon after, I come bursting in, wiping the hair from Silas' sweaty forehead. THe nurse looks at me, waiting for my cue, before letting me know that there's only one more.

Everything is played out to the clan heads, and when the project dies out, Sarah bows, before dismissing herself, her job done.

"By this alone, Augustine Griffin should be trialed for death, however since both parties were in the wrong, I will allow some leniency," the Matriarch turns to me. "Choose a punishment for him to endure, as you have endured."

". . .For each time Silas screamed, he shall endure three hundred lashings. For the act of trying to separate me from my soulmate, let his left leg and right arm be separated from his body. For the harming my son, let his fangs be ripped from his mouth."

A cruel smile covers the Matriarch's face, a bright gleam in her eyes.

"Then It shall be done."

Augustine tries to step back, and several clan heads argue that the punishment is too severe.

"We have the supplies to grow his fangs back, since we've been working with the witches," the Matriarch shuts them up. "He'll have to live for some time without his fangs." turning towards me.

"Five hundred years."

Like a gavel being dropped, hands grab Augustine, stripping his shirt from his body, forcably pushing him to his knees.

"Pick your whip."

I walk to the rack and grab handle after handle, getting a feel for it. It isn;t til I grasp this slick red whip. It has the spikes along the length, however at the tip to about 3 inches up is barewire, wrapped around it. A butler comes from the shadows, and covers the whip in a dark liquid, shivering a bit as he backs away.

The figures holding Augustine move, but stand close enough.

"From the looks of the witness, Silas was heard six times. That's 1,800 lashes," the Matriarch speaks. Nodding her head, I begin.

From the first crack of the lash to the end of me pulling out his last fang, a smile never left my face. Silas woke up once, to feed from me before heading back to sleep, never seeing Augustine. I, however, laid if on him, never letting up the power of my swings, only getting harder and harder.

Not even half way through, Augustine pleads for mercy, begs for his life, but it falls on deaf ears. His screams giving me pleasure. The feeling of the whip ripping flesh out, the sivering of his arm as I tore through bone, only to burn it to seal the won=und until it was time for him to heal. The once smiling clan heads are not frowning, some even looking away in disgust.

By the end, Augustine had foam flowing from his mouth, bloood tears still flowing, and piss all over the floor.

"Demon," is all he can call me.

I can't say i don't look like it, given that I'm covered in not only my blood but his blood as well. And I relish in it, licking my lips a bit.

"Let this be a reminder to those who break the law," the MAtriarch's voice carries. " Now we're dismissed. The trials shall take place later, when I have deemed fit."

Everyone bows--in some cases-- as best as they could, before we all leave, each heading through a different hall.

What a damned day.

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