Dora Esquivel's Blog: Ancient Bond: Masters and Servants, page 23
April 6, 2019
Sandman, A Horror Poem
Sandman
He is coming through the dilapidated alley
Slowly he’s coming to your window and watches the prey.
And if you look at his gaze you will fall in never land
For he will feed your eyes with his fearsome dreadful sand.
Shhhh here comes the Sandman.
The world around collapse and you try to escape
But the sound of darkness rumbles ever changing shape.
Opening your eyes is a lost battle and you know
Because they area sown shot for your nightmares to grow.
Shhhh here comes the Sandman.
[image error]Social Media Era
Blur all around, mist in your eyes and mind
Trying to scream and cry but silence is all your find.
Your lips glued together you try to part them
But your touch fells through as all is mayhem
Shhhh here comes the Sandman.
Sounds are you are coming closer.
Your worse fears humming together.
You know what to do to avoid to face
The one true horror master piece you once embraced
Shhhh here comes the Sandman.
Digging your fingers in your eyes to gash them out,
Afraid to see what has been growing from your doubts
But don’t you see this wasn’t a dream?
It was the life you have chosen as strange as it seems.
Shhhh here comes the Sandman.
[image error]Nightmare
He will make it all better.
With his fearsome sand filling your orbits.
Growing new eyes to see pass your past.
But keep your lips together.
Words are not needed when images fit
The one dream that everyone has fear would last.
Shhh here comes the Sandman to wish you goodnight.
April 5, 2019
Injustice 2 Review
All Because of Gabby!
Now, this won’t be your typical review, in all honesty, I haven’t played the game that much, maybe a match or two after we bought it. However, the person behind the reason we bought it is my guest on this review, my step-daughter, Gabby.
She is your eyes and ears for this review. We see her insights in the game itself and just how much she adores the Injustice series. However, first, I am giving you the info you need about the release and what not just to get you primed for what is in store for you on your console of choice.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
Released in 2017, the sequel to NetherRealms Studios original game, Injustice 2 came with the promise of the continuation of one of DC Comics’ favorite Elseworld style stories, alongside the comic, and delivered with an amazing game and a ton of really cool DLC.
Round 2
Injustice 2 was released with a season pass, then again as a legendary edition, which is now the sole way to purchase the game, a staple for NetherRealm Studios as they started doing that with Mortal Kombat X and XL.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
Fans were happy to have this series back on either of the two big consoles, PS4 or Xbox One, a first for the series seeing as the previous game released on the PS3 and Xbox 360. Now, let’s get to the meat of this review, and to do that Gabby, my step-daughter and a massive fan of the Injustice series, is helping me out.
Gabby’s World
Hi, I’m Gabby, and I am here to give you some info that I have picked up reviewing the game for myself.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
I loved the first game and the animations and characters that came with the game. Injustice 2 came out with several new characters, and of course, season passes for the rest of the characters soon to be added. My favorite character is Starfire, which you can get in the season pass.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
She is my personal favorite because her attacks close range and long ranges do a decent amount of damage, of course depending on which move I decide to use. Her accuracy and speed are amazing as well. My personal least favorite so far is Firestorm, mainly because he isn’t very fast and his defence isn’t outstanding.
Help and Unlock
The story mode is pretty epic, where a chain of events happen that leads to Brainiac‘s, also a new character, ship. The game does include single and online matches and has other features such as the mother boxes, that help unlock new gear and moves for the characters, basically this games version of loot crates.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
So far, the game overall is excellent, and the animation is amazingly detailed. If you want to battle me later on, Ed will link my PS4 Gamertag.
A Little Preview
All right, there are Gabby’s insights into this game, she didn’t get into why this is probably her favorite game series thus far, but then again she is young and has so much to experience game wise.
Though, like her mother and I, Gabby is also a huge comic fan, so that probably explains that a bit.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
So, in closing, the final score for this Injustice 2 game, decided by Gabby, of course, is a solid 8 out of 10, a quite worthy purchase for all you fighting game addicts out there. So, look it up next time you’re in your game store, be it on PlayStation or Xbox, and give it a try if you feel froggy.
Next Guest: George!
So, there you go, another review in the can for Gothic Bite Magazine, and a big thank you to Gabby for being my eyes and ears on this review. Stay tuned next time for another special review, this time co-written by my step-son George. Until then, see you in the games.
[image error]Injustice 2 – DC Comics
PSN ID BatEd700 : Gabby: Fangtastic16
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YouTube Channel
April 4, 2019
Is the Sandman a Ghost?
Sandman The Entity
They say the Sandman is not a ghost—that he is an entity that comes to visit you at night to put you to sleep, and bring you good dreams. There have been many myths and legends written about him.
In fact, there are also stories about how the Sandman collected the eyes of children who would not sleep. There is such a vast amount of information on him that it is hard to tell what is the actual tale and what is twisted.
What If
Let me put another twist on it. What if he was a ghost who did the same thing instead of some random entity that no one can quite define? I mean, let us look at the things we do know. He does not appear during the day. He only visits when he cannot be seen or heard at night time when you are sound asleep in bed.
One story says he wears socks to remain silent as he approaches your room, but what if he were able to float or fly instead? Or what if he waited until you were within the precious lucid time between sleep and awake to plant the night’s dreams before shoving you over the edge into the deep sleep you need?
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It is hard to fathom a tangible entity being able to be multiple places at once. However, a ghost would hypothetically be able to travel from person to person—taking only seconds to do their work before moving onto the next person.
And, for those not as sensitive as true mediums or empaths, you would be far less likely to sense a ghost in the area than you would a tangible being you could touch and see.
Ghost Throughout Cultures
They say that not all ghosts are malicious. Many cultures have ghosts that are helpful.
[image error]Orbs
Take, for example, the ghosts of your ancestors. In Japanese culture, there are many practices of asking your ancestors for guidance and they would visit as ghosts to give you the knowledge you needed. And, this is not exclusive to Japanese culture! It is represented in many other cultures as well!
A Ghost Spreading Sand
So, it would not be so far fetched for a kind ghost to travel about making sure we receive sleep and good dreams. They would likely expend little energy and be able to consume our bad dreams to replenish their supply.
Now, let us just hope that they keep their presence concealed like they have been! What a rude awakening it would be for them to jar us awake with a physical touch!
April 3, 2019
The Authors Show Interviews our A. Wayne!
April 3rd, 2019
On April 3rd, 2019 The Authors Show airs their interview with A. Wayne and asks her a variety of questions from her novel Mrs. Blackwood and what inspires her and advice to new authors!
The Authors Show
The Authors Show broadcasts simultaneously on 6 separate “channels” with one interview broadcasting per channel. All interviews play during the week for 24 hours starting at 12:01 am ET inside our media players. Weekend featured author interviews rebroadcast for 3 days (Fri-Sat-Sun).
A. Wayne on The Authors Show
When hearing about the internet radio station, A. Wayne thought that she would never have the opportunity to be on such a show because to her, she lacked the confidence and the popularity of other authors already displayed.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE INTERVIEW!
[image error]2019-04-03 The Authors Show Interview with A. Wayne
However, she took a leap of faith and decided
to fill out the document required to submit her desire to be on the show, and
then she forgot about it as to her, she wouldn’t be on regardless.
Then, out of the blue, she gets an email congratulating her. She was on the show. One step at a time, first Zombiepalooza Radio Live and now The Authors Show, A. Wayne is working her way into the literary world. Her world.
Now, here’s the interview on The Authors Show.
Mrs. Blackwood available on Amazon!
After being attacked by creatures she never thought existed, Coralie woke up to a new life as Mrs. Blackwood and yet, has next to no recollection of getting married. Coralie never thought it possible to fall for someone so fast.
Her husband, Mr. Blackwood, confessed to be of both vampire and werewolf blood and promised to free her from him once she would be safe from his enemy which they realized was closer than they thought and again, changed Coralie’s life when she learned of her own bloodline.
[image error]Mrs Blackwood by A. Wayne
THE IMPALER SERIES
Mrs. Blackwood is the first instalment in The Impaler series. Nightmares will be unleashed, a monster from the past will be revived while all the He ever wanted will have turned out to be impossible. His illusion was his only mistake.
Thank you everyone!
The Ghoul Family
April 2, 2019
Bring Me A Dream
Misunderstood
I remember hearing about the Sandman as a child; it wasn’t through the Hans Christian Andersen’s story but through The Chordettes version of Mr. Sandman the song. In fact, in almost every rendition that I have had the pleasure to read or hear since I was introduced to the Sandman, every instance has been innocent, good intent, misunderstood, and complex.
There are a few versions in the last few years that especially stand out. It is always fascinating to see how different minds see the same lore and make it come to life in their worlds.
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Each of the two examples I will present has their roots in the lore, but even a glimpse at the art for the characters shows just how different the characters were developed. Granted yes, for one it is meant for adults and the other for children, but that being said they still are rooted from the same place and are the same being just different views and different worlds.
Lord of Dreaming
The first to present is of course from Neil Gaiman’s The Sandman. The main character is Dream, also known as Morpheus, who is one of the seven Endless in the comic series from Vertigo. The series follows the Lord Of Dreaming as, to put it in very short-sighted context, he moves out from imprisonment to find his kingdom in disrepair and sets about the journey to right his past wrongs and discover his true self.
[image error]The Sandman by Vertigo
Every one of the Endless, Destiny, Death, Desire, Despair, Delirium (formerly Delight), and Destruction are fascinating and pull the reader in as you learn more about not only Morpheus but his brethren as well. It is one of my top ten series in the comic universe and is 100 percent recommended as a series to read.
Rise of Guardians
The second iteration that I will present is of course from the 2012 movie Rise of the Guardians based on the children’s series by William Joyce. Now, of course, the movie itself focuses mainly on Jack Frost, love, and his journey to being a guardian himself.
[image error]The Sandman by William Joyce
To viewers delight, however, it also features well-known characters like the Tooth Fairy, Santa Claus, The Easter Bunny, and The Sandman who are already Guardians. Sandman in this movie is more like what I am sure most people think of when they think of him as a kid.
A kind man who helps children not only get to sleep but gives them peaceful and fanciful dreams of their hearts desires. He is also quite the dominant being in the Guardians battle against the villain of the movie, Pitch Black aka the Boogeyman.
Centuries of Sand
From the animated to the drawn, the written to the singing, Sandman is a figure that marks his way along our history. I admit to memories of fancy wondering if the Sandman ever visited me and being fascinated and curious. Whichever way you choose to think on him, I hope dear readers that he brings you continued sweet dreams.
Sleep well, The Phantom.
Kendra Hale
A. Wayne on The Authors Show
April 3rd, 2019
On April 3rd, 2019 A. Wayne airs on the #1 internet radio show for authors, The Authors Show. Interviewed about her novel Mrs. Blackwood, she talks about her inspiration and knowledge of the vampire world as well as her views on science fiction.
[image error]Mrs Blackwood by A. Wayne
Radio Shows!
Her first podcast appearance was on Zombiepalooza Radio Live with the host, Jackie Chin; now, she’s on her first radio show! Follow A. Wayne on her journey to become an indie author recognized for her work in the horror department with either her favorite, vampires or science-fiction.
[image error]A. Wayne on Zombiepalooza Radio Live
If you can’t get enough of news about the paranormal, join Gothic Bite Magazine’s Newsletter and follow GBM!
Don’t miss her interview! Just click on the link All Authors Show!
The Ghoul Family
Great New England Vampire Panic
Supernatural Superstitions
Often it’s hidden from sight. The victors write history; the ugliness washed away. I found this tidbit of history and I thought my vampire fans out there might enjoy.
In the early years of American history, New England was full of superstitions about the supernatural. The church spread fears of evil which lead to the witch trials so famously diluted in our history books. Vampires were rumored to roam New England’ rural communities by night with reports documented as early as 1793.
[image error]Haunted Forest
However early settlers and young Americans had just come from war with England, and there was no need to fear vampires. People held heart burning ceremonies when finding vampires graves. Sometimes by the family of the undead as they took responsibility.
Another Type of Woodstock
In many cases, it was a festival of sorts. In Woodstock Vermont, they held one such burning in the dead of February. Smithsonian historians reported the journal of Timothy Meade reported the event adding that there was good sleighing to be had and suggesting that these burnings were a time for celebration.
To burn the heart, however, exhumation had to occur. There are over a hundred cases between 1793 and 1892 of exhumation and heartburning ceremonies in New England states. Essayist and Philosopher Henry David Thoreau wrote about an exhumation in his journal suggesting a vampire might have been in his family.
[image error]Henry David Thoreau
In 1854 in the small town of Jewett City, Connecticut the Great New England Vampire Panic came to a head. A large farming family in the small town began to die from the illness seemingly, one member of the family after another. Struck down all by the same life-sucking illness. Today we know it was Tuberculous.
Fifty members of the family, including in-laws, died. It was the families believe that the undead cursed them as each member of the family feels their hearts for “safety sake” and the family members buried in unmarked graves. Now the family did this to each other; it wasn’t the community that left their souls to wander. When the family was out of blood relatives, the illness seemed to stop and the curse lifted.
Declared A Vampire
In 1892 Mercy Brown was one of the last to suffer the panic. Her mother dying at a young age her oldest sister and brother soon followed. Mercy, her father, and one older brother lived for several years without illness, and then the brother became ill. He moved away trying to find relief. It was shortly after that that Mercy too became ill.
She passed away before her brother, upon his return the people of their small community begged Mr. Brown to open the coffins of the dead family members. A local priest believed that there would be fresh blood in the heart of a vampire.
[image error]Mercy Brown Gravestone
Mercy just a few months dead and having died in the winter was still nearly perfectly preserved. She was declared a vampire. Her heart removed and burnt. Two months later her brother passed away. So many the vampire was the father? Hmmm.
New England folklorist believes that many of these types of stories can be explained through medical science today. However, a few believe that vampires do exist and that they have done an excellent job at keeping themselves hidden leaving the idea that these stories, newspaper articles, and journal entries might be more fact than myth. Also, more history then folklore.
April 1, 2019
The Christian Witches
Meanings of Words
18 “Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.”
-Exodus 22:18 King James Version (KJV)
There is some speculation that this line was a mistranslation, that “witch” was meant to be a poisoner. Either way, this line is the bases of the horrific “burning times” that plagued Europe.
To be specific, Germany, Spain, and a few other countries were the only ones to burn the “witches” at the stake, while the British Isles hung theirs. All in all, innocent people were killed because of a possible mistranslation. However, what does this have to do with Christian witches?
[image error]Beltane – Pagan Ribbon Pole
Wic·ca /ˈwikə/ noun
a religion influenced by pre-Christian beliefs and practices of western Europe that affirms the existence of supernatural power, such as magic, and of both male and female deities who inhere in nature and that emphasizes ritual observance of seasonal and life cycles.
Chris·ti·an·i·ty /ˌkrisCHēˈanədē/ noun
The religion based on the person and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth, or its beliefs and practices.
Excluded from Both
Christian witches face many difficulties from both pagans and Christians alike. Both thinking that combining witchcraft with Christianity is an oxymoron. However, it shouldn’t be.
[image error]Ostara – Pagan
Witchcraft and Wicca are two different things while witchcraft is an action Wicca is a religion. Jesus prayed and performed miracles.
“As for Christian Wicca, the term Christian is used as a modifier for the pantheon observed in this particular practice of Wicca, much like the concept of Celtic Wicca.”
https://christianwicca.org
In October of 1999, a Yahoo group surfaced called, Christian Wicca. Later on, renamed Trinitarian Wicca. Trinitarian Wiccans don’t have to agree with the concept of Satan, Original Sin, or any other such things. They especially don’t believe in the patriarchal aspects of the Church.
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What makes a Trinitarian Wiccan a Trinitarian Wiccan is the use of the Christian pantheon. That could be saints, Jesus and Mary, or only the Holy Trinity. They use lost scripture, like the Gospel of Thomas, and Gnostic teachings; some even use Kabbalah in their practice. That is it. Christian was a modifier, and it changed to Trinitarian.
Open Arms
The fact that these people face discrimination for their beliefs, from both sides, isn’t right. Ostracizing them for their beliefs isn’t what Wicca and Christianity are about at all. Moreover, I for one, find the fact that they have combined the two, shows that we all can coexist.
Want to know more about the history of witches? Why not buy our first printed issue: Gothic Bite Magazine Vol. 1 — 300 Years of Witch Trial available on Amazon in both eBook and paperback!
*** Intended for an Adult Audience – Mature Content – 18+ ***
Our magazine is a community to gather all people that enjoy the paranormal. It is customized to satisfy the cravings of those who like the lightest spooks to those who devour the dark, and we hope you all enjoy our work.
Gothic Bite is one magazine among many, we know, but what sets us apart is our Ghoul Family, little monsters that write articles for your pleasure and keep you up to date with what is happening in the paranormal and supernatural world.
Our editor in chief and OCD Vampire finds it essential for all of our readers to know that the Ghoul Family truly believes this magazine can bring something new to everyone who dares read Gothic Bite.
[image error]Gothic Bite Magazine Vol. 1 on Amazon
Everyone in the Ghoul Family has been writing for as long as they can remember, but he or she is all also attracted to the unknown and what lurks in the dark as well.
Their mind is always running at high speed to create new stories and new content, but also they wish to share with the world their passion for what hides from the light: vampires, monsters, paranormal, supernatural and so this magazine is here to satisfy everyone’s thirst for the paranormal.
The Ghoul Family admits they are new to this blog thingy, but with the help of each member, we can figure it all out and bring all readers the best content all of you deserves.
Written by Monsters for Monsters
The Ghoul Family
The Sandman
Mystical Origins
The origin of the character of the Sandman brings us to northern-western Europe; however, it is uncertain to exactly where it began. European folklore describes the Sandman as a man who sprinkles sand or dust on or in the eyes of children to have them fall asleep. In most versions, the Sandman only brings out good dreams.
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We all know the story, so how could Gothic Bite Magazine agree to have him as a monster? Well for once, I put him there because he creeps rabies out of me and here is a few reasons.
The Eye Collector
German author, E.T.A. Hoffman, whose work categorized in Gothic horror romance, lived from 1776 to 1822. He wrote what I would consider myself to be the true nature of the Sandman, Der Sandmann. It was a short story part of a collection natively written in German.
The summary of the story itself is quite disturbing and worthy of a Stephen King hit! Back then, I am quite sure that the story scared many people. The Sandman was not what we know him to be now.
[image error]Der Sandmann by E.T.A. Hoffman
The story goes when a nurse reports that the protagonist threw sand in the eyes of children incapable of falling asleep. The sand stuck in their eyes had those fall off. The protagonist, the Sandman, would then pick those up to his lair back on the moon and feed those to his children.
You read that right. The Sandman can quickly become quite a horrific character if one digs deep enough into the relationship between the sand and the man.
Other Incarnations
The Sandman made its way around the world and did not stop at Europe, although you can find his name in Romania as a submissive character to children refusing to sleep known as Moș Ene or WeeWillie Winkie from Scotland.
Such incarnations are also parts of the South African folklore, Klaas Vaak while the Swedish people call him, Jon Blund.
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In the First Nation population, the Cree has two distinctive folklore reminiscent of the Sandman. One of them is Cahkâpêsh which translates to as the “Man on the Moon” and seen as a little person and a hero. The other though falls into the category of the Wendigo. His name is Wihtikow and represents terror and is the equivalency of the Boogeyman.
Insomnia Sleeping
As a child, I knew about the Sandman, the Man on the Moon and feared the sand. I would often fight my tiredness because I was afraid I would never wake up again. Despite the fairy tales, the happiness of pretty dreams, I developed night terrors and insomnia over the years.
[image error]
The sand the Sandman used on me wasn’t gentle in the very least. The Sandman, a character that walked its way around the world with a bag of magical sand to throw in the eyes of sleepless children.
While some never feared his work, I for one, never trusted someone who walks into your home uninvited to throw something at you.
What are your thoughts?
Pre-Order Ancient Blood by Dora Esquivel
Who is Dora Esquivel?
Been on my own since I was sixteen. I’m a born rebel! I grew up on the border of Texas and Mexico. Had many adventures in the AirForce and traveled the world, but I always kept writing. I have a bunch of journals with full stories that need to be written. I am at a point in my life where I can dedicate myself to my passion writing!
[image error]Dora Esquivel
The writing Gods won’t leave me alone! When I’m not writing, I enjoy reading, listening to old 80’s music, exercising, taking care of my family, two sons, hubby, mother, and two dogs! Busy full life.
My stories are dark, horror-filled, with a mix of tantalizing erotica and gritty sex. I have a wild imagination. I prefer my paranormal beings ruthless and cunning.
As I start my writing adventure, I hope you will join me and enjoy reading my books! Any questions, please contact me I would love to hear from you!
Ancient Bond: Masters and Servants
Available on Amazon Kindle for $0.99
Ancient Bond Summary
Sometimes you need to fall on your knees to rise.
Centuries ago Lucien’s family and pack were slaughtered and betrayed by family. Lucien was then enslaved for five hundred years by the demon who killed his succubus mother.
One thousand years later his powers as Alpha and Incubus are growing. He is now ready to take his rightful place as Alpha Supreme, but first, he must claim a reluctant mate and escape from under the heel of his possessive Vampire master Sargon.
[image error]Ancient Bond – Masters and Servants Book #1 by Dora Esquivel
Lucien is a hybrid shifter in a world where being unpure is not tolerated. Lucien should have never been born. Enter a dark and savage paranormal world, where being weak is stamped out and exploited. Being dominant and unapologetic is key to survival.
Follow Lucien as he seeks vengeance against the uncle that betrayed him and the demon who enslaved him and murdered his mom. Where secrets, allies with hidden agendas, and political jousting determine the fates of many.
A dark, sensual, and paranormal fantasy series by new author Dora Esquivel.
Ancient Blood: Masters and Servants
Available April 30th, 2019 on Kindle!
*** WARNING GRAPHIC CONTENT AND SENSITIVE SUBJECT MATURE AUDIENCE ONLY — READERS BE ADVISED ***
Ancient Blood Summary
A vampire/incubus hybrid and his fated human mate are banished from each other for a year. It’s time for the joyous reunion. What could possibly go wrong?
A year ago, in a fit of lust and need, Lucien claimed his mate, a human called Gabriel. Gabriel tried to resist but Lucien easily overpowered him. Lucien’s master, Sargon, was not pleased with his spontaneity and decreed the two must be apart for one year…and, just for spite, that Gabriel would not be able to ejaculate until he saw Lucien again.
For 1000-year-old vampire/incubus hybrid, Lucien, a year should not feel like an eternity. Oh, but it does. He spends his time studying vampire law with his master, Sargon, and plotting his revenge on those who killed his mother and enslaved him for 500 years. As the last heir of the Lutair clan, it’s almost time for Lucien to claim his rightful place. All he needs is Sargon to release his powers and his mate to be at his side.
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Gabriel awoke naked, alone, and thoroughly sated after his night with Lucien but with no memories of anything that had happened. Over the next year, he became stronger, faster, and he healed at an unbelievable speed. Sought after by men and women seeking his attention and his cock, Gabriel was happy to oblige, even when he knew he shouldn’t. Gabriel fed off the pheromones, attraction, and raw sex and yet he could never be satisfied. He could not come. Ever. It was driving him mad.
When Lucien and Gabriel meet again, Gabriel’s memory returns and with it his refusal to bow to Lucien’s demands. He wants nothing to do with that world. He is done with the blood and violence, but Lucien needs him and won’t give up without a fight. Still drawn to Lucien, Gabriel must decide if he will submit to his feelings for Lucien and stand with him as he goes to war for his throne. And Lucien may discover that embracing his love for Gabriel may be the secret to his true strength and power.
WARNING!
This is a Dark Paranormal series. This continuation contains strong adult content not meant for sensitive people: It contains violence, gore, and disturbing themes. It is NOT intended for all audiences; reader discretion is heavily advised.
Ancient Bond: Masters and Servants
Centuries ago Lucien's family and pack were slaughtered and betrayed by family. Lucien was then enslaved for five hundred years by the demon who killed ...more
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