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 blood or Zaccarius' life.