Absolution

For years, travelers in the French Vosges Mountains heard the wailing of a woman echo in the hollows. Her cries went unbidden. No one was brave enough to seek out the source. Over time, the screams lessened and then stopped. Eventually, even the memories slipped away, forgotten. Six centuries later, two over-eager research assistants find and release the young half vampire, Chloe—unaware of the events they unwittingly unleash with her. Far away, other forces are aware of her awakening. Zaccarius, greatest of all the Slayers, is sent by the Council of Nine to seek out Chloe, determine her worth and render justice. Enticed by her purity and innocence, he soon becomes her protector. However, Jochad, the Dark Master, and his army of evil vampires are also eager to claim Chloe. In the battle that ensues, Zaccarius falls beneath Jochad's army, and to save her lover, Chloe must make a choice. Ancient and dying, Jochad needs Chloe's blood to reanimate. His ultimatum—her... After vampire Lukoran first tastes Shauna, he induces an obsessive desire in her to be tasted again. To again feel that exquisitely pleasurable pain. Like an addict, she will crave it until it consumes her and she loses her freedom. Maybe even her life. Although she's felt the touch of many other vampires, no one can satisfy her never-ending craving as only the giver of the first bite can. That’s why she’s tracked down Lukoran tonight. She’ll rid herself of his hold over her—even if she has to kill him.