Thoughts of a Vampyre

Fair day to everyone.

By the time this is posted I will have retired to my daily rest. Kaithlin will be posting my message, as she most often does since I am generally too busy during my nightly duties. I have given much thought to what I would say this day and decided to attempt to answer many of your e-mails at once.

As many of you already know I'm many things; among them a Master of my Kind. To the newer visitors to this blog; I am the Vampyre Garth, an Ancient who has been around for a very long time. Some of you believe in the existence of my Kind while others prefer to believe we are no more than figments of myth and lore. So be it, however you choose to think. What matters most to me is that believers understand the nature of the Kind; that all of us aren't alike in our desires and behaviors.

True, many of my Kind are deadly predators but as time goes on that is changing. Others, like me, are no threat to Outsiders and other Kinds, without just cause. While we don't live by the laws of your Kind, we do respect them as best we can. Thus, you might understand that we defend ourselves according to our laws. The right to survive belongs to all who walk this earth but there are those who have taken it upon themselves to decide who is worthy of living and who isn't. According to the Mortals' law, where is the justice in that?

Our differences, both physical and inherent, instill fear (and most often, jealousy) in Outsiders, and that fear is what drives those who hunt us down and attempt to destroy us. Those of you who inquire as to why we don't attempt to make peace with Human Kind have no real concept of the difficulty such an attempt entails. That is why I, and others like me, are careful to consider all circumstances before we trust our safety to others. People like Dream Teller and her colleagues are few and far between; people who care and work tirelessly to bring about acceptance of all Kinds.

Just in the last two decades have we been able to achieve a modicum of peace among differing Kinds so that Vampyres and Werewolves, once mortal enemies, are able to co-exist. It is our hope that one day, all will come to accept one another. But the most difficult task of all has been to coax Human Beings to the table of peace. Aye, and the reason for that? Because your Kind fear us for our extraordinary abilities. Many Outsiders have certain of those abilities but, sadly, because they are taught that such is of evil origin those abilities remain dormant. Did you ever wonder why we tag you as Outsiders? Simple, that; because you remain outside the realm of all that is possible. Your understanding remains limited; shut down by your misunderstanding connected to Christianity.

As some of you already know, we have Christians among us; some of high standing, who have come to understand that we are all created for a purpose and all are deserving of a safe existence. I, myself, have Christian values and I attend Christmas Eve mass at midnight; a special, yearly vigil that never fails to instill in me a sense of peace. For was not the Christ Child born to rid all of us of our sins. I won't go into a debate on that matter, though I have done and have left Christians of high authority without the ability to explain that their God of forgiveness would turn His back on any soul.

Ah, and we reach that; the belief that Vampyres and other Kinds outside humanity have no souls. Can you prove that? Can you see the soul or the lack there of? OR are you one of those who spins your own interpretation from the Bible? That is an argument that will never be won nor proven until the final judgement and this world is no more. But in my heart I know I have a soul, else I would be no more than the maniacal beast many of you brand me. But I am not that. I use my gifts for good and worthy cause, protect those innocents who can't fend for themselves against any who would harm them, and yes, I give thanks for all my blessings. And there are many, come to me down through the ages.

Truth of the matter is, I'm far better off than the majority of you, for I neither expect nor demand things I wasn't meant to have. There was a time, in my early years, when bitterness drove me to take what I wanted and to turn my back on those in need. But I was blessed with the time to learn and understand that my fate was dealt me for a purpose. Once I set about discovering that purpose (it took me a while) I learned to live rather than exist; to give (even if anonymously) rather than take); to offer rather than demand, and I learned to temper expectations so they were no longer out of reason.

I have done much with this existence, used my vast knowledge to teach; put my fortunes to good use; and once I landed in the place where I now am in life, I am honored to have many trustworthy friends and allies. But the center of my existence is the beautiful blessing given me in the form of the woman whom was entrusted me; my wife and partner, Jessica. Some have called it blasphemous; the beast who took the Witch to his heart, the lovely mortal. Call it what you will, for no one I know has ever known the true happiness and contentment Jessie-girl and I share. So you see, Mortals and Immortals can come together in respect, loyalty, and caring.

I have a question for you: Why would you frown upon the likes of me, and other Kinds different from yourselves when those of your own are in the process of looking to clone themselves; when many of your Kind use their powerful companies to destroy you with with emissions that poision the earth and her waterways; when the more fortunate steal all that the working class has worked hard to amass; when some of your Kind preys upon its own innocent children... Need I say more? I suppose it is easier to hate what one doesn't understand and attempt to destroy it than to turn on one's own Kind, irregardless of what one's own has done.

For myself, I have learned the value of looking ahead, of setting goals that benefit others besides myself, and of doing what needs doing for those who often don't even realize they are in imminent danger. I have been called both saint and sinner and I assure you I have never traversed the realm of a saint. Sinned I have, but I spend every evening of my existence finding ways to atone for past mistakes. Like it or not, I believe in God and I know I wouldn't be here today without His having a hand in it.

So, I offer you this; take it as you will, or ignore it. Before you callously judge another, shun another for your perception of wrong-doing, perhaps you should take the time to look beyond the quick and easy, what is right before your eyes. Lose the idea that you are above reproach and that others can't meet your standards and therefore aren't worthy of your friendship, otherwise, you just might find yourself in a place where others will judge you. Don't think so? The one thing I have faith in is that each and every one of us, of all Kinds, will come to a final judgement for which our past lives will be exposed and dealt with, accordingly. And it is that for which I seek to make reparation and win salvation. Whether I die at the hand of some unworthy opponent, or for just cause, I seek only to do what is right and good during the rest of my existence. And you?

Sincerely, Garth

Lauren coming to you...

Fair day, all.

If it appears that we aren't as dedicated to our blog as we previously were, you couldn't be more wrong. Since our last post, we have had problems with our server, among other things; glitches that have to be worked out anytime one makes such a large move in so little time. However we are here, and we will continue on until we are up to full speed. Today is Kaithlin's day off so I, Lauren, will post Dream Teller's answers to your e-mail. Hopefully, within the next week we will have all of the problems with the system solved and be back with you, each day.

To Trini in Georgia: My dear, your common sense should be screaming at you to question, question, question.... 'Tis no' a matter of your knowing the swamps so well. Stop and wonder why those people have no' sought the tour through a known professional guide. As I am wont to often preach, listen to your instincts and follow their guidance, for those will no' fail you. Too, you should wonder how strangers from the opposite coast came to know of the fact that you grew up with the swamp as your playground, how they came by your physical address and e-mail address, etc. Take care, for the exhorbitant amount of money they have offered for your services is vastly out of line with ready tour prices. Aye, and I have no doubt the check will clear, for those types are willing to pay handsomely for what they want, and I fear 'tis you and no' your experience they have placed a bounty upon. I can no' tell you what to do, child; only advise you. You must make your own choices and do so well before the February deadline. May the Fates smile upon you and Blessed May You Be.

To 'Friends of the Wee Ones' in S. Carolina: I appreciate your positive compliments for the information I provided regarding Faery-Folk. And as much as I appreciate your offer, 'tis an inopportune time for me to fulfill your request. I have visited your website and commend you on both content and beauty. Mayhap I may consider links with certain websites at a later date, but for the moment we are stretched to thin trying to catch up, for my staff to find time to browse every site which expresses the desire to link to us. As I am sure you know, there are those I will no' subject my visitors to. Again, thank you and Blessed May You All Be.

To Silver Bullet in California: 'Tis rare that I assume anything but your adopted moniker pretty much speaks for itself. 'Tis truly a sign of how little Outsiders like yourself know about those whom they deem unfit for society. I would laugh had the situation no' become so pathetically common, but I am no' amused with the likes of you and the diatribe you spew. Me thinks you are no more than a Wanna- Be hunter. Take care you do no' run into the 'real' Kinds of whom you spout your desire to 'wipe from the face of the earth'. For if you do, your silly 'bullets' will no serve your purpose, and you may wish to find your information from something more dependable than myth.

To Greta in Virginia: 'Tis only by choice that one allows one's self to be placed in such a predicament as you have described. That constant dread of which you speak is that which I continually preach of; instinct. Those are merely movies designed for entertainment, but when someone decides to 'copy' the action for the thrill of it, you have the makings (there long before now) of a bonofide 'psycho'. What is there about the plans he described to you and your friends that was no' crystal clear from the start? I strongly advise you to speak with someone in law enforcement and get the information down on record. Then, you and your friends need to stay well away from him lest you be a victim of his psychotic behavior. Blessed May You Be.

To the many who have requested information regarding the Vampyre Roman: As I have said before, Roman is no' the type to seek friendship outside his circle of friends and allies. Roman is who he is; a man who is Vampyre. He is a Hunter and I assure you he is no' someone you wish to approach as you would an ordinary Outsider. Certainly, he is possessed of extreme good-looks but that does no make him the type to play upon such. He has no interest in others than whom he presently knows. So, those of you who come here for nothing more than entertainment, enjoy what you read here, about him and others. For those who seek truth, you already know... Blessed May You All Be.

To Zack in Tennessee: Ritual is geared to one pupose through thought, feeling, and movement. The purpose will vary depending upon that which one seeks to accomplish. Ritual is present in ordinary circumstance; part of daily life, such as in hygiene, work, and play. 'Tis also part and parcel of the daily life of those whom use it for extraordinary purpose. Do no' make more of the 'word' than is intended. Ritualistic behavior is no' the single thing that sets one apart from another; but the purpose, in and of itself. So, while Witches do, indeed, use Ritual, so, too, do Outsiders. To answer your last question, the ritualistic purpose of the African Violet is for spirituality and protection. Blessed May You Be.

To Jarrod in Michigan: There is a variety of Tarot cards available on the open market. 'Tis difficult to advise someone as to which deck to choose, therefore I generally tell the person to attempt to 'feel' the resonance contained within the decks. As you have stated you are no' a Master of the Tarot, but a budding student, I will tell you what I say to other students; move past the come-on meant for entertainment purposes, only. If you are truly dedicated to learning the mysteries of the Tarot, you know a come-on when you see it. The book of instructions that comes with the various decks are fairly basic information, but the ability to read the Tarot lies within one's ability to channel what one 'reads' from the particular spread. All things considered, if one is looking to make a fast buck or simply entertain, the cards will no' resonate for one. On the other hand, if one is seeking truth and intending to use it for reasonable and fair purpose, and one is willing to spend the time to learn, the Tarot will resonate and provide what is sought. Blessed May You Be.

To Frank in Texas: Choosing gems and stones for their majical qualities is a matter of personal preference. Each has its own purpose and is synonymous with a particular element and planet. The picture you e-mailed appears to be that of Amethyst in the rough (unpolished). Among its purposes are healing, peace, protection, and happiness, and its element is Water. Take into account the person who gifted you with it and therein will you find her reasons for doing so. As you have stated that the lady is, in fact, a Witch then I would tend to believe that her path is that of the Healer. Mayhap you have need of healing; be that of heart, mind, body, or spirit, or need of protection; for whatever purpose. And lastly, it may simply be a 'gift' from one who senses something special about you and wishes to become better acquainted. Time will tell. Blessed May You Be.

To Martina in Alabama: The word 'Wizard', of European derivation, is applicable to both male and female practicioners. Many mistakenly believe Wizards and Sorcerers are one and the same but no' is the case. While both are Witch, each cleaves to a different path and has different types and degrees of powers. As to why there is no word differentiation between male and female Wizards, such as is the case with Sorcerers and Sorceresses, who really knows? I do know that in these modern times, the term 'Wizardess' has come into vogue, and that is truly a modern term. Blessed May You Be.

To Tracy in Idaho: There are many myths concerning the Berserker and the Werewolf. Both were ancient warriors who fought under the great Odin's protection. The Berserker was a man who could call to himself the spirit of the bear and the Werewolf the man who could call the spirit of the wolf to himself. Thus they were mighty warriors; feared, and sought for destruction. As both types of warrior live in these modern times, (aye and their numbers are few in comparison to others) 'tis their knowledge, along with their actual presence, which often disprove much of the historical myth we read. Blessed May You Be.

For those of you who continue to inquire as to when my novel will be published, I can no' give you an exact time but I am moving forward with the process. Hopefully, the first of the series will be published in late spring or early summer. Blessings Upon All, Dream Teller.

A new beginning...

Bonjour mes amies.

Welcome to our new Lair. Thanks to all of our regular visitors for waiting for us to get set up following the hurricane. In the past week we have worked hard to get settled in and set a new agenda. Dream Teller's last posts were those concerning Faery-Folk, and though she did no' answer all of your questions nor get round to discussing all of the various races of Faery, she did discuss those most well known. She will continue with that topic later on, but for now we will try to begin catching up on our e-mail. Please bear with us, as we can no' get to all that has accumulated. In fact, if you do no' see an answer to your mail this week, feel free to e-mail us again. Too, many of you have asked when we will offer another contest with prizes for the winners, and we are working toward that end as well. Another priority is getting Dream Teller's novels published and that too is in the works. So, we begin...

To Garreth in Michigan: The word 'Witch' is what I refer to as an umbrella term; Witch being a Kind, for which there are various types within the Kind. As with any Kind, Witches have a social rank known as the Witch's Hierarchy. All Witches have some degree of power and each has a particular power significant to that person; an identifier. Thus, 'tis correct to say that Warlock, Sorceress, Magician, Druid, etc. are all Witches. I will no' get into the mechanics of whom is most powerful, for that will be debated unto the end of time. However, the degree of one's power and the aptness of one's skills can be and are built to higher degrees through the use and honing of those. That being the case, Witches with the desire and dedication to rise through the ranks are capable of doing so, with much hard work and determination. But let me temper that last; while the capability is within each Witch, that 'any' and 'every' Witch will rise in rank is no' a probability. To further muddy the waters, there are those born to certain rank and priviledge. You have heard me use the term 'True Witch', non? The 'True' is born of purest blood (which I might add is relatively rare these days) of those ancestors whom were great and powerful in their time. Some Witch's can trace their ancestry back to the likes of the powerful Merlin, etc. So, in conclusion, to call a Warlock or Sorceress a Witch, is correct. (Just a little helpful advice here; many of those in the higher social ranks prefer their titles of ranking, which they feel is their due, and so mote it be). Blessed May You Be.

To Tracey in California: One should never assume anything when dealing with Beings or things outside one's area of knowledge . That piece of advice is so basic that, having offered it, it leaves me to wonder, just how gullible can one person be? Obviously, (and I do no' mean this unkindly) you are in dire need of a dose of common sense. As you have said, "they literally make my skin crawl", that would be your instincts, screaming a warning. The fact that you feel afraid, yet, can no' shake the 'need' is another form of warning. Conflicted feelings, my dear, serve a purpose, if one has the good judgement to heed the warning. First, and always, if the uncertainty is present, the 'need' should be to leave what is best left alone. Blessed May You Be.

ToTran in Washington: I stand unjustly accused. If you care to go back in my archives, there you will find I have stated that Beings possessed of extraordinary powers come in all races. As I am no' well versed in Vietnamese culture and history, I can no' speak of such with any authority. However, (before you accuse me of prejudice) 'twould be to your advantage to research your cultural history and/or speak with one of your race who is well versed in the area of otherworldly Beings of your race. As to your 'dislike' of Caucasians in general, 'tis your problem, no' mine and I will no' give space nor time to prejudice.

To Charla in Texas: Nay, child. Do no' attempt to romanticize what is no' in the least, romantic. Aye, and Roman is a good and true friend and ally but he would be the first to tell you that his is a hard and arduous life. And while he makes every attempt to successfully navigate his way in this world, 'tis extremely difficult to live among those who (if they knew he was Vampyre) would condemn him as an abomination (at the very least and outcast), and seek his destruction. 'Tis my fervent hope that, one day in the near offing, Roman will find a partner who is willing to accept him for who he is and stand beside him. As any Vampyre will tell you, that hope is a long shot and one few harbor for any length of time. Garth was one of the blessed, in that he found his Jessica, but he survived many a lonely century before she came into his realm. So, to answer your question; Roman does no' take to casual relationships with mortal women, or any other species of female. 'Tis no' his way. Blessed May You Be.

To Gray Wolf in Arkansas: Mayhap, or no'. I encourage you to seek the counsel of the King of your tribe. If, as you say, he is fair and honorable in his dealings with his own then he is best suited to guide you. I adjure you, do no' stray into that realm without first knowing the considerable consequences of that action. Even as your numbers are growing, there are precious few of your Kind left, and to lose another would be a terrible blow. Your bloodline is steeped in honor and most notable for advancing positive relations with other Kinds. 'Tis your youth which feeds your restlessness and until you accept who you are, you will always envy that which in no' meant to be. Blessed May You Be.

To Derrick in Delaware: I very seriously doubt she is whom she claims to be. But as I can no' be certain at this point, I would advise you to graciously bow out of the situation. Give whatever excuse is neccessary (in this case a white lie will surely be forgiven), and leave her to her business. We can no' investigate everyone who claims to be another Kind, as we would need legions of allies to do so. There are and will always be the 'Wannabe', and there are and will always be the real 'Thing' who uses that particular guise for obvious purpose. Your main question of yourself should be, Why was I approached when I had no former desire to know of such an existence? Your instinct should tell you the answer; 'for no good purpose'. Blessed May You Be.

To Preacher Tom in Georgia: To each his own, preacher. 'Tis been many like yourself who have preached the damnation of other Kinds, yet they survive and continue to thrive. 'Tis shame you should feel for preaching such drivel. Mayhap 'twould shock and, certainly, dismay you to know that you are no' the right hand of your God. 'Tis blasphemy you preach and 'tis that which you will be judged for. Take care for your own soul lest you lose it for your sins. And by the way, all the members of your calling do no' agree with your diatribe.

Blessings to all who are deserving, Dream Teller.

Looking forward...

Fair day, all.

Many thanks to those of you who have patiently waited for us to move and set up the Lair. The past year has been one of many trials, but no' one without some blessings, as well. As we move into 2006 'tis my fervent hope that all of you, our visitors, as well as our own, will prosper in health and well-being. While life is a series of trials (and no one is exempt), for the most part we have it within our own power to achieve a state of contentment, if no' happiness.

While I have no' ever been one to make what is known as New Year's Resolutions, I do look upon the beginning of a new year as such; a new beginning. 'Tis a time for looking forward. For to look ahead is to believe in renewal, as it were, to accept that what 'was' is done. If one cleaves to the ideal that 'For all things there is purpose, and a purpose for all things' then belief in such would preclude the need to look back and dwell upon those things one could no' change.

However, 'tis human nature which lends some the desire to attempt to rectify certain things in life; even those that obviously can no' be rectified. At this point some of you may be thinking of the old standard 'If at first you don't succeed, try try...' Aye, but how many times must one try before the futility of the trying sinks in? I am speaking of common sense. 'Tis nothing extraordinary (although I have noticed it appears to be in short supply), for one only has to 'see' what is right before one's eyes. Actually, 'tis more the accepting of what one sees... But you get the point, non?

I have studiously avoided putting this particular post into e-mail form for this purpose: 'tis very difficult to remain non-judgemental and that, without blasting certain folks who contiuously flood my mail-box with their why me, poor me, oh woe is me, complaints. Mind you, I do no' mind giving one a nudge in the general direction of 'get off the pity train at the next stop' or 'jump now', but when I get a steady flood of the same old stuff from the same people, well...

Generally speaking, no one of us is guaranteed what we 'want' from life. The only guarantee is this; whatever tools one is birthed with, each of us has the right to use those tools in the proper pursuit of our destiny. If one chooses to use those tools for naught, or no' to use them at all, 'tis as 'twill be. For those who need a simplification; the tools I speak of are no' the use of one's looks/body to entice/trap another; the use of one's brain to demean another's intelligence; use of one's financial gain to hold oneself above others less fortunate, to buy what was never meant to be bought, etc... I truly hope you get the point.

Now, wanting to 'be'... Simple, that one. You are who you are. Your destiny is written. Certainly, anyone can skew their own destiny but why would you? To skew your destiny is, bluntly, to screw yourself. Ponder, and Blessings Upon All, Dream Teller.

Welcome Back!

Bonjour and fair day, all.

We're back on line; all settled into our new digs (except for a few minor adjustments). 'Tis with a great deal of relief the transition is over and, hopefully, things will settle into some shadow of normalcy. As you can imagine, our e-mail is piling up faster than we can read it. So, while others are wading through mail, I will post DreamTeller's answers to some that we have already read.

To Lara in Arizona: Aye, and paranormal activity 'tis no' limited by physical boundaries. 'Tis the spiritual boundaries that bind and those according to the particular spirit or demon. Unless you are well-practiced and highly knowledgable in that particular arena 'tis best to stay well away. 'Tis innoncents who are often tapped but, as you have revealed to me that you have never been involved in anything of the sort, 'tis my feeling that you are no' dealing with a 'good' spirit. Leave it be; ignore the desire to return to the place that could well turn out to be your downfall. Blessed May You Be.

To Toni in Wisconsin: 'Tis a choice you, and only you, can make. 'Tis apparent that you have given much thought and soul-searching to the matter. Therefore, by the questions you have posed, 'tis also apparent that you are uncomfortable with the very idea, let alone the end result. The head does no' always lead us where the heart wishes to be and vice-versa. Mayhap you might take a break, clear your head for a few days then return, refreshed, to ponder the situation. My advice; look at it from more than just the obvious angle ('tis uncertainty that causes one to stay within comfortable confines). In other words, one who only colors within the lines and will no' step out of the box is no' one to be considering such a future. Blessed May You Be.

To Marshal in Tennessee: There are reasons why, and a purpose for all things. No one of us is promised an easy road, nor a high road. Quite simply, life 'is' but 'tis up to each of us to live it to the very best of our ability. 'Tis your way of life and why would you be thinking of giving it up to please another? I think you already know you could no' survive (mentally or emotionally) such a drastic change. There are times in one's life when one must bid a fond (or otherwise) farewell to certain people and things, and look ahead. Very often those who implore, bully, and/or use guilt tactics to keep another with them are no more than users and abusers. Remember, one can no' change one's ancestry and genetics. Be proud of yours and allow no one to sway you from your chosen path, for you are destined. Let no' your youth blind you for 'tis youth which is being played upon. Blessed May You Be.

To Jeff in Texas: The idea leaves a lot to be desired, non? Sounds a bit daft when folks go about promising immortality to any who will follow them. You are right of course, 'tis no' more than silly games. However, that does no' mean they are no' possibly dangerous. You are wise to ignore them and wiser yet to keep your son away from them. At thirteen, children are convinced they are wise and invincible and 'tis the parents they will turn from and listen to strangers. Keep a close watch on him and remember you can always fall back on local law enforcement. Blessings Upon Both of You.

To Kerry in Louisiana: 'Tis sad, aye, but our New Orleans has survived many catastrophes in the past. She will rise again, albeit slowly, and be the better for it. Her people are strong of heart and mind, as you and I must be. Look forward and move on with your life. You have a giving heart and a kind nature and those will serve you well. Blessed May You Be.

To Tarren in England: 'Tis no' the best of situations, to be sure, but neither is it the worst. Search your heart then seek the truth, beginning with your mother. 'Tis a long time she has carried the secret and 'tis her need to unburden her soul before she passes which led her to broach the subject with you. One must have the capacity for forgiving in order to attain acceptance. 'Tis your bloodline, and he who seeks to set things right has suffered, greatly. At this juncture in life, 'tis of no real consequence who abandoned who. The whys and wherefores will all come clear in time and 'tis my firm belief you would do well to allow this meeting. Aye, and he is Warlock, and 'tis the passing of those genetics which has long kept you on edge; wondering who you are.'Tis your opportunity to become whom you are destined to be. Blessed May You Be.

To Darrin in Maryland: Aye, and the true Witch does indeed carry a specific mark. Often those appear as no more than a birthmark to the untrained eye. Even though each mark is unique to the owner, 'tis easily recognized by the Kind. You will find that most Witches will keep the mark from plain sight, for 'tis something of a personal nature as well as an identifier of ancestry. In other words, the mark could easily bring danger down upon one from one's enemies. Blessed May You Be.

'Tis all the time we have for e-mail at this time, mon amies. As we are busy setting up schedules and locating associates and allies to let them know where we are, we will continue to touch base with you through our Blog. Hoefully, things will fall into place in a short while. Fair day, all. Kaithlin