title: Seized by Obscurity
author: Herley, Joann
description: This story takes place on the Island of Alltree. Long ago, strong ships discovered its lush forests, fertile earth and crystal clear rivers. Hearing of the beauty of the land, Lady Lara's grandfather, Lord Evergreen, boarded a ship and sailed to Alltree to see the land for himself. Captured by its beauty, he returned home to tell everyone of the faraway island and his plans to build Evergreen Castle. Returning to Alltree with skilled craftsmen, he proceeded to build a castle on the west side of the island that overlooked the sea. After a decade, his castle was finally complete, and he brought his family to the island. One by one Lord Cumberland, Lord Fallon, Lord Draglaw, and Lord Heinrich made their journey to Alltree and began building castles of their own. They were all peace loving men, and the five lords pledged to refrain from war and live in peace. It wasn't long before immortals heard of the island and began to sneak aboard ships to make their way to Alltree. They changed everything. Lady Lara, Lord Evergreen's granddaughter, is now the Mistress of Evergreen Castle. She is a two hundred year old vampire that has fought the madness and won. Her army of humans and vampires stand ready to protect the castle and the surrounding villages from those that disobey her one rule. Never drink human blood. Overcome by grief after finding his family murdered, Thomas frequently seeks the village tavern to drown his pain with ale. Late one foggy evening after stumbling from the tavern, he is confronted by a stranger that will leave him mindless and craving the taste of blood. Observed by Lady Lara to be reckless and deadly, she offers her help to save him. Little does he know that being saved by her will lead to an unexpected love, fear from an act of treason, and a willingness to sacrifice anything.