Secrets of Ravenstone: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book One
ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝟙𝟘

The next morning arrived, and after a good night’s rest, and settling in, my mom and I joined residents in our dwelling for a small breakfast downstairs in the kitchen. Listening as my mom laid out her plans, going on a tour of the island with the other women that eagerly welcomed her, I would keep the meeting with Marxus as planned, and held off telling her about the previous night for the time being. Sharing brief hugs I stood, turning away from the table then paused, as my mom called out.

“No Zanzabarr?”

“I don’t think Marxus would want a wolf sniffing around.” I answered solemnly.

“True.” she nodded, accepting her answer, “Love you!”

“Love you too!” my voice called out over my shoulder.

Watching her daughter disappear through the front door of the dwelling, she turned to the women who softly called her attention back toward the conversation taking place.

Walking across the landscape, following the paved pathway admiring the beauty, it was then I felt a tingle running up my spine. I shivered, beginning to follow its directional pull and as I swerved around the iron gate surrounding the manor, there it was, a group of purebloods and half-breeds practicing their arcane magic in what looked like a training yard of sorts. With the faint sparks and energy blasts that were exchanged, I didn’t feel so alone in the world. Smiling, I turned away, venturing inside the manor, but kept glancing back before the men and women disappeared from view and it was then I had sensed someone walking behind me. Quickly turning around, there was no one there, but I knew Demons and Shayds could become invisible for a short time, so I swiped the air between me and the presence but there was nothing, there was no one, but I still felt whatever it was standing there.

“Go away and leave me alone!” I moaned firmly, “You’re not welcome here, and I didn’t summon you!” I turned, quickly scampering up the stairs where Marxus stood outside at the top of the staircase.

“Took you long enough.” he complained, opening the door.

“Sorry. Next time, I’ll make sure I leave five minutes earlier.” I teased, following him inside, “Good morning to you too.” I turned to him.

“Apologies, good morning.” he answered quickly. Locking the door, he turned, approaching one of the tall bookshelves behind the leather sofa, “I think it’s time I show this to you. Even though it’s the following day from our previous conversation.”

“Mm-hmm, I saw these books yesterday.” I observed.

“Not the books, Yzavela…not the books.” Marxus hid a faint grin. Turning to the shelf, pulling down on a green book, activating loud mechanisms, both he and the half-breed heard gears behind the wall before the shelf pushed outward, sliding to the right over the shelf next to it.

“Cool.” I admired, because it didn’t surprise me this manor had secret passages. Completely moved aside, partial puffs of dust flew across Marxus’ path, “Doesn’t anyone around here have rooms that aren’t covered in dust?” I asked, waving the dust away, then held back a sneeze that stung my nose.

Marxus said nothing, he only smirked. Walking into a hidden chamber, standing in the doorway, his presence ignited many torches inside. Turning to the young woman behind him, he softly spoke gesturing for her to follow him.

“It’s all right, you can come in. But watch your step.”

Peeking my head inside the doorway, the chamber was more of a narrow passageway, leading to a large door toward the back. Looking around, six torches along the walls both left and right, provided adequate lighting. Not knowing where I was supposed to go, I began walking toward the door that I felt like I would never reach for the depth of the passage was long, maybe twelve foot.

“Ah-ah, not that way, Yzavela.” Marxus whispered, “What’s hidden behind that door is for another day when you are clear headed. This way.” he gestured toward a smaller passage to the right of the doorway behind them, leading to a single set of metal stairs spiraling twice upward.

Reluctant, unknowing of where the stairs led, I had to stop being so afraid. Taking a deep breath, the steps creaked from our footsteps as we ascended, until coming to a door at the top. The torches from below provided a faint glow, allowing us to see the path, and once reaching the top we paused, gazing upon an old wooden door with no locks or handles.

Glancing down at her, Marxus asked softly,

“What is behind this door, must stay between you and I, and not even your mother can know, understand?” he studied her.

“Understood.” I nodded.

Placing his hands upon the door’s surface, connecting with an energy, the door unlocked and opened, revealing a dark entry where pitch blackness greeted the visitors.

“I don’t want to go in there.” I stared deeply into the ominous blackness, “I don’t like pitch black places.”

“Nothing will bring you harm, I give you my word.” Marxus reassured her as he entered, “Come on, Little One.” his voice echoed from inside.

Hesitant I entered, feeling a strange sensation of a tightness that engulfed me. It wasn’t painful, but felt more like pins and needles once more, running through my entire body. Sighing softly, I closed my eyes with a faint smile, for this was magic of the oldest kind.

Marxus, noticing her uneasiness and admiration from a smile on her face, explained that because of her demonic nature, the energy within the room needed to accept her presence.

“Think of it as a…magical imprint.” he encouraged.

Knowing that made sense, I had no argument.

Flipping a switch on the wall, turning on a generator quickly powering a row of low wattage bulbs that ran in straight and curved angles of the arched ceiling, they illuminated the room. Marxus continued, taking steps forward noticing the young woman’s sudden paleness to her face and lips.

“Are you all right?”

“Is there iron in this room?” I felt nauseous.

“Some.” he revealed, looking around, “We won’t be here long enough for it to take full effect.”

“I don’t have to be, just a few minutes does the trick. Oh god, I think I’m going to be sick.” I knelt, taking deep breaths.

“Iron effects you?” Marxus observed her closely.

“As with any Demon, Shayd, or supernatural creature, so…” I raised my gaze, looking at him, “don’t get any funny ideas.” I slowly stood, taking deep breaths.

“Never.” he frowned, “Besides, you are more than capable of protecting yourself.”

“Mmm.” I groaned, then glanced around the room, that must have been the attic I spotted upon our arrival, but it was far more vast than I ever expected or imagined.

Apart from the arched ceiling, there were four wooden pillars supporting its weight, two large windows with colored glass adding daylights’ glow to the interior lighting. There were several large cabinets and shelves lining the walls across from the windows, displaying vases and statues, trinkets, and boxes. Others, hidden in the shadows away from all chances of light, revealed various sized glass jars, pouches and a handful of gadgets. Books older than those in Marxus’ study were piled neatly on empty spaces of the shelves, I could see the old peeling leather of their spines. A podium between the two windows stood, supporting the weight of a massive book with its page on full display. There were small niches within the walls, holding ancient candles that hadn’t appeared to have been used for ages, and trunks and chests were stacked along the wall toward the rear of the room, where tapestries hung, displaying various events in history. Or that’s what I assumed they were.

Tables scattered around the room presented several other books, jars, ornate boxes and chests, while others were piled and stacked with rolled parchments. On the walls, hanging alongside several other paintings, were maps of England over the centuries, both the Isle and Ravenstone’s Manor were among them. The floor, covered with various animals skins, revealed symbols and sigils carved deeply into the stone. And in the center of the room, uncovered by skins, was a wizard’s circular pattern of magical runes.

“This, Yzavela, is the Room of Secrets.” Marxus raised his hands, proudly declaring its purpose, “No one knows about its location or its contents, except for myself and two trusted friends. And now you, of course. But you mustn’t tell anyone about it, for everything contained within this room, will soon be in your guardianship and part of your responsibility as the new Keeper. And considering your nature, you are now part of the secrets here, as I’m sure no one but your mother knows of your secrets of being a fire Demon.” he scanned her face.

“That’s right.” I nodded, then turned, making my way around the room, examining everything I could before the iron began taking full effect. All of the jars contained herbs and whatever else would fit in the small containment, and were labeled with names I didn’t know existed or ones I couldn’t pronounce, “Ew.” I grimaced, for others were stuffed with fairy wings, petrified something or other, and potion bottles were filled with liquids and powders of different colors. I couldn’t even tell you what they were but if it’s petrified, I really didn’t want, or need, to know, “More books.” I teased, spotting the titles pertaining to black magic rituals, dark arcane spells and incantations, and the most dangerous, Necromancy, while others listed names of every magical being, both in this dimension and the next, “What is all of this?” I asked, leaning against a nearby table, beginning to feel lightheaded, “Where did all of this come from?” I looked around, knowing I could spend minutes at a time in this room, perhaps hours, if it had not been for the iron.

“They’re items, books and ingredients, maybe even weapons that no longer exist, or are too harmful to possess.” Marxus’ Hazel-brown eyes scanned the room, “I took it upon myself to be a guardian of it all, protecting them from all who wish to use them for evil purposes. Take for instance, dragon’s blood. It could be very dangerous in the wrong hands, or it could be quite beneficial in the right ones, however, it’s not something you can replace on a daily basis or at your local herbal store.”

“In other words, you’re a Templar.” I confronted him, because I knew my history and I wasn’t foolish, even in that moment, “Because that’s pretty much what they did, concealing or in your case, protecting artifacts and all that.”

“You can say that, yes. My family founded the Order of Men.” he revealed, taking slow steps toward her, “I was offered my place at their table many centuries ago, but I didn’t choose to make it my path. At least not the one they wanted, but they have allowed me to handle things how I see fit and without question.” his answer was vague. Looking at her, he couldn’t help but wonder with great curiosity, “You’re taking in all of this information rather well, a little too well, I must admit.”

“Marxus?” I groaned, looking at him, “I’m a half-breed, my mom is a magical practitioner, and I have a pet wolf that is lethal to Demons, Shayds, and other half-breeds. Nothing, I don’t think, surprises me anymore.” I turned away, prepared to leave but there were books that unfortunately caught my attention, “No books on Demons?” I skimmed their titles of Wraiths, Lycynians, dragons, ancient witches and warlocks, and other magical beings.

“Those books remain here, they’re grimoires explaining all of the weaknesses and evolution of each race and species. If in the wrong hands, anyone could destroy this community that I have spent two centuries developing, and protecting. I once possessed the Satanic Bible here, but it was claimed. But who, or what, I’ll not say because I don’t know.” Marxus answered firmly, “And there are books on Demons, but they’re locked away for many reasons, and I’m sure they wouldn’t be help to you.”

“And why is that?” I turned to him.

“Because they wouldn’t.” he affirmed.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes!” he paused, realizing she was beginning to twist her words into a string of riddles, “Yes, Little One, I am sure.” he shook his head, “They pertain to Demons that dwell in the darkest depths of Hell and I don’t think you’re one of those, are you?” he tilted his head.

“Um, I hope not.” I mumbled softly, then glanced around, and it was then I realized, “Wait, why do YOU have books on the Wraiths and Lycynians?” my eyes blinked quickly, trying to fight the blurred gaze, “Are they your HOW TO guides?” I looked at him again, “Marxus?!” I demanded.

“I have their grimoires because there are Wraiths, and yes, I hate to admit, Lycynians here on the island. You can’t really tell them apart, except for the faint wet dog scent that the paranormals emit occasionally. And as far as the Wraiths, it’s their cooler skin that gives them away, and that’s what the three dwellings are for, if you hadn’t already wondered. Two out back, behind the manor, are for the Wraiths and mortals, and the dwelling near the garage are for the Lycynians. I had preferred keeping them separated, for territorial reasons, and the Demons are mixed throughout the Wraiths and mortals, adding somewhat of a balance between the two, if you’d like to think of it that way. As a matter of fact, if I’m correct, you have encountered three Lycynians.”

“Three? Who?” I became curious.

“Nathan. Anthony, and that Scottish bulk of a man of whom you met upon your arrival on the dock, Leonus Lancaster.” he revealed bluntly, “Leonus, however, thinks he has claim on the island because his ancestors were part of the Viking clan that once possessed this place.”

“And then yours came along and took it from them. Gotcha. And Immortals? How many of your kind are here on the Isle?”

“We are a rare race, but we are out there. And yes, there are, let me see…three.” Marxus answered easily.

“Does that include you, or?” I grinned.

“Yes, Yzavela. That includes me. There are many things to learn about this place, and too little time to do so in one day. I know this is a lot for you to handle at once, but in time, you will come to understand the importance of the new path that is in front of you.” he proclaimed softly as he placed his left hand on her shoulder, and with his right hand, he reached out toward the bookshelf behind her, removing three of the large books that were more like ancient volumes, leather and cloth bound. Handing them to her, he continued softly, “I’d like for you to read these, so you can grasp the history of those that live here. Take your time reading, there’s no rush. They are a bit heavy, I know, so would you like for me to carry them?”

“No, that’s all right, thank you. If I can handle a one hundred and twenty pound wolf, I think I can manage.” I shifted the weight in my arms, holding them tightly then sighed heavily, “Okay, I need to leave, I can barely breathe.”

Gesturing toward the door behind her, Marxus led her out of the room. Closing the door, he glanced back watching it as it sealed itself. Grinning faintly, he followed her down the iron stairs and once standing at the bottom, he listened as her soft voice rasped in disbelief that she’d inherit everything on the Isle, from the harbor to cliff side out back, to all of the hidden secrets within.

“And I was chosen by the orb-stone. Me?” I looked at him, “I mean, shouldn’t the next-of-kin be chosen for this task?”

“I don’t have a next-of-kin. Or I would have if my daughter hadn’t…” Marxus revealed then paused, feeling the sting of a memory haunt him, “nevermind.” he cleared his throat, “But yes, the stone chose you, and once it makes the final decision based on qualities you obviously have, there is no changing it.” he wondered, “No, that doesn’t sound right.” he looked at her, hearing a soft giggle, “But initially, I set things in motion by sending it out into the world, and it did the rest, by choosing you.” he led her into the study, “The Isle needs someone who will protect the secrets, and accept the residents without judgement, it needs an individual that can keep the balance between the races and species, which has taken me centuries to do, and I feel that since you have your own secret, you will adapt. Although, I still have my doubts.”

“No pressure then.” I walked over, gently laying the books on the sofa, “Wraiths, Demons, Shayds, and half-breeds. Right.” I turned to him, watching as the bookshelf closed, “And what if I choose not to accept, what if I say no? Then what?”

“If you decline, I’d spend another century or more, searching for another it deems worthy. And that’s if luck is on my side, but like I said, once it makes up its mind, that’s it. That is, if it has one.” he humored with a grin.

“Right.” I chuckled, then looked around the study.

“Yzavela, dear girl, this will be the last time I say this, but I apologize that I have unloaded all of this upon you and all at once, but you asked and I’m telling you from the start. And I most certainly don’t want this sounding like a cliche from the films, where there’s a chosen one destined for this or that, or having to save the world from dangers. This isn’t a film, and there are no heroes or heroines sweeping in to save the day. It’s real life, Yzavela, and with real-life struggles, some of which you might not be able to handle on your own. I cannot promise, nor will I say it will be all right, but just know that making mistakes is when you learn. And believe me, I have made many mistakes and have taken drastic actions that I-I regret and I’m sure, I will make more in the future, but leaving this place in capable hands will not be one of them.”

I studied his face and features, really taking in his appearance. I noticed the fine lines around his eyes and which direction his beard was brushed and groomed. Looking away, I smiled, and accepted his words.

“All of this is mind-blowing, it really is, so for me to become part of it all, you know thrown directly into the middle of it, is magical. I’ve only encountered Demons and Shayds in the States and the Great City, even Immortals, but knowing that I’m actually living among a community of them, having the responsibility to protect them, that’s a lot to take in and think about, but I do have another question and I swear, I’ll leave.”

“And what would that be?” he walked around her petite frame, approaching the desk.

“The Wraiths and Lycynians that live here, they don’t kill do they?” I worried, “I haven’t heard much about Lycynians but the Wraiths, yikes, them I heard of. I mean, don’t they drain the energy from someone when drinking their blood? Cause the Nightwalkers in the Great City under Drakuul’s lordship, didn’t leave much to anyone’s imagination, all those monsters did was ravage their victims in horrific ways on the spot.”

Marxus’ heart stopped, hearing her mention Drakuul’s name. It couldn’t have been the same man he banished, binding his magic and there was no way he could survive or escape, much less gaining control and power once more.

“Marxus?” I muttered his name, “Um, Marxus?” I watched as he turned to me, looking at me as if he were in a moment of deep reflection, “Half-breed caught your tongue or?”

“Apologies.” he frowned, then cleared his throat, “That’s just a very descriptive question, but no, the Wraiths that live here used to feed on the fresh blood of living beings but once they agreed to dwell here, I enforced rules pertaining to a no-kill policy that restricts the Wraiths’ urge to feed.”

“Restrict?” I softly argued, “But it’s in their nature, isn’t it?”

“Yes, but if they wish to live here, they must adhere. Some of them, however, have mortal partners and what they do behind closed doors is completely their business. Just as long as it is not exposed to families and children. While there are Wraiths and Lycynians on the mainland in conflict with one another, those here have, in a way, learned to somewhat co-exist. SOMEWHAT. They keep their distance from each other, but there have been skirmishes here and there, and unfortunately it is expected. The mortals, practitioners or not, are always caught in the middle of their feud.”

“As long as I don’t have to worry about my neck looking like a delicious snack to a hungry Wraith, that’s a relief .” I joked, looking at him, “Sorry.” I shrugged, “But before I leave, and while I’m here, let me make a promise.” I stepped toward the desk, standing in front of Marxus, “I don’t know what’s going to happen from here on out, but…I need to learn that I have to trust someone, or something, because I can’t live with always looking over my shoulder in paranoia, so with that said, I accept the role as the new Keeper of Keys and...”

“Secrets.” Marxus interrupted.

“What?”

“Keeper of Secrets, not keys.” he clarified.

“Whatever.” I raised an eyebrow, “I accept the role as the new Keeper of SECRETS, and I promise to do whatever I can, and within my capabilities, to protect them. I know I have a lot to learn, boy do I ever, but I will try. After all, I am one of the secrets now and I also promise not to set things, or anyone, on fire.” I smiled, “Not on purpose, that is.”

Marxus chuckled lightly, and before be could answer her, an overwhelming energy filled the room, creating a faint buzzing that could be heard, sounding like bees in a nearby honey hive. Abruptly, and without warning, jutting out of its box, was the orb-stone hovering in the air above their heads. Glowing brightly, it changed its color from its original blue, to red. Swirling around the petite woman standing before him, it glided into her hands as she reached for it.

Feeling the pulsating energy, it became a faint heat.

“I will take that as a sign the stone has accepted your oath.” Marxus declared, staring in amazement at the stone that took on its new color, “And by its new color, I am guessing that it has accepted and adapted to your origins, hence its red hue.” he watched as she sneered, ignoring his remark, “All right, I do think enough has been said and revealed, and I am sure your mother is wondering where you are. Again.”

“You’re right.” I nodded, then turned, but before I returned to the books rested on the sofa, there was one more question I thought I could ask, hoping to get a reply, “What was that uh, podium toward the back of the Room of Secrets?”

“That’s the registry, documenting all of the inventory and the properties of each item.” Marxus said in a soft tone, “You can look through its pages at any time, I ask that you never take it from the room. It must stay there at all times.” he raised an affirmative finger, “By no means, must it ever be removed.”

“Never take it out of the room, got it.” I nodded, “Maybe after I process everything, I’ll take a look.” I glanced down at my hands that still held the orb, “Um, what do I do with this?” I looked at Marxus.

“It is yours, you can take it with you, or leave it here for safe keeping.” he revealed, “The choice is yours.”

“Mmm, okay.” I walked over to the table where its box sat. I reached out my left hand, opening the lid that closed from its abrupt ejection, then with my right hand, I gently placed the orb back into the snug fit of the box. Closing the lid, I turned to Marxus, informing him that I would leave it with him, “Oh, one more thing, if you don’t mind?”

“Yes?” the Immortal sighed, sitting in the office chair.

“That door toward the back of the narrow chamber, do I want to know where that really leads?” I wondered curiously.

“I was wondering when you’d ask about that, but it leads to an underground cavern where a magical friend of mine dwells, the very same that had created the orb-stone. I will show you that another time, when I feel you are ready, but enough has been revealed for one day.” he answered bluntly with a hint of agitation.

“Fair enough. Another time. Thank you for the books.”

“You’re welcome, but remember, they’re for your eyes only.” he pointed at the volumes sitting on the sofa, “Although, I do think your mother can be trusted, so only she glimpse at their pages but that is all, yes?”

“Understood.” I nodded, then muttered one last sentence, “If you don’t mind, can you do me a favor and stop referring to my nature as DEMONIC ORIGINS. Yes, I’m a half-breed, but it’s not who I am as a woman.”

Studying her quickly, he realized how it must have sounded from her point-of-view.

“I apologize.” his answer was sincere.

“Thank you.” I walked over, retrieving the books, then left the study, closing the door behind me. Standing at the top of the stairs, holding onto the books, I sighed because I didn’t need this sort of sh*t happening right now. Carefully making the descent down the stairs, reaching the bottom, I shifted the books in my arms, when suddenly a rush of residents had crowded through the front doors, going into the dining hall. I caught the scent of fresh bread, bagels and bacon, all of which made me hungry. Approaching the entryway, I heard my mom’s voice call out my name behind me, and turning around, she strolled through the large lounge with Katrina and three other women. I smiled, watching as she shared smiles or even a few frowns with passing folk.

“DON’T LIKE ME, DON’T LOOK AT ME.” she thought in a sarcastic tone, adjusting her skirt and necklaces.

I chuckled softly, approaching her. Meeting halfway, I stood by the marble table, laying the books on the surface, needing to shake out my arms.

“You’re done with the witches and warlocks?” I looked at her.

“For now. They wanted to take a break to visit their friends.” she looked toward the dining hall, “I don’t know them, so it wasn’t appropriate that I tagged along.” she shrugged, “After all, I’m still learning who’s who and what’s what around here.” she glanced at the books beneath her daughter’s hands as she leaned on them, “What are those?” she attempted studying the fading titles on their spines.

“Marxus said I could tell you, but not here. All I’ll say is that it’s mostly about this place, and Mommy, you won’t believe it.” I whispered.

“Good, because I have questions. I mean, when we spoke, he mentioned bits and pieces of what he’d like to discuss with you, so is that what you mean? And was he a gentleman with you?” Lady D walked around the table, leaning in close, “I got worried, you were up there for a while and it if weren’t for the stairs, I would’ve stormed in there showing a mother’s rage.” she finished.

“I know you would have, and yes, he was a gentleman. Very fatherly, actually. I mean, things got off on a rough start, but after laying things out on the table, we got along. We had to close the door because what we talked about, was for my ears only. He’s very secretive in what he likes to discuss. But…”

“But? But what? I don’t like the sound of that but.” Lady D fretted softly.

Glancing around, watching residents coming and going out of the dining hall and foyer, I waited for them to pass by, but knowing there were Wraiths and Lycynians, my eyes quickly scanned each of them, wondering if they were any of them.

“He knows about my SECRET.” I looked around, “Yes, about the half-breed thing, but the fire-Demon thing.”

“Wh-what? How?! Yza, tell me you didn’t set things on fire?” she quietly argued, “Yza?!”

“Not intentionally, and I uh, also steamed.” I answered shyly, “I already told you all of this last night, so why are you acting so surprised now?”

“Because this is the first time you’re telling me about this part of the tale, and don’t you dare say you mentioned it last night, because you certainly did not!” Lady D argued firmly, “Now, is there anything else you forgot to tell me?!”

“No, that’s it.” I cleared my throat, “And don’t worry, he’s not going to evict us off the island, but from what’s told me about this place, I’m not the only half-breed and abnormal one here.” I looked around, “Remember when Mary said she has friends that were Wraiths, and Billy’s dislike for Lycynians that he had mentioned?” I watched as she nodded, then spotted in the corner, a woman glancing in our direction, “Can I help you?!” I snapped at her.

“Private conversation here, Ma’am.” Lady D turned to the woman, “Move along, please.” she gestured toward the dining hall.

Watching as the woman entered the hall, staring back at us with a look of disappointment, both my mom and I agreed we should take this conversation elsewhere, because there were more people coming and going.

“Just as well, I’ve had enough for one day, and the walk of the grounds is tiring. You’d think they’d have elevators for those who wish to visit the upper level of this magnificent manor.” Lady D gazed at the curved stairs, “What’s it like up there?”

“I don’t know really, I didn’t pay much attention because I had gone straight to Marxus’ study, but there was a private lounge at the top of the steps, and a grand hall leading to the left. Where though, I don’t know, but his study oh my god, is gorgeous and decorated with that Spaniard flair.”

“Spaniard?” Lady D’s voice hinted curiously, “I thought so.” she smiled, “Now, if want to catch something to eat here, I can take the books back to my room and leave them there for you. I’ve already had lunch at the dwelling, so I don’t want to look at any more food.” she felt a sense of fullness.

“No, it’s okay. I’ll grab something at the dwelling, and even though the foods in the dining hall smell appetizing, I’m not in the mood for rich grease and butter.” I declined her offer, then noticed her wincing expression, knowing her knees were bothering her, “I can tell your knees are hurting you, so why don’t I ask Marxus if he can call for the shuttle, hmm?”

“Um, no, I don’t want to be a bother.” Lady D refused.

“Mommy.” I affirmed.

“All right, fine.” she walked over, sitting on the fourth step. Laying the books in her lap, she grunted feeling the heaviness, then glanced over her shoulder, watching as her daughter, in swift steps, scampered upward. Gently tapping her hands on the hard covers of the volumes, ignoring the temptation of glimpsing through their pages, she suddenly heard a man’s voice greet her by the foyer doors. Looking in their direction, there stood Anthony who took slow steps approaching her, “Hello.” she smiled.

“Hello.” he returned the smile, “Are you all right?” he worried.

“Yes, I’m fine, thank you. I’m just waiting for my daughter, she went to ask Marxus if he could call the shuttle. This rain, and the United Kingdom’s weather is not kind to old bones.” she revealed.

“I see.” he nodded, then glanced up the stairs behind her. A large smile grew as the woman’s daughter quickly descended, “Ah, hello again, beautiful Yzavela.” he reached for her hand, but she gently pulled it away, “Such a beautiful name, I was just talking with your Ma-ma here.”

“I can see that.” I teased, seeing her blushed face, “Talking about good things, I hope.” I glanced between them.

“Si, of course.” he smiled, placing his hands on his hips in a cute, charming, sort of way with his left foot stretched out for balance, “Now, let’s get you lovely ladies back to your rooms?” he gestured toward the doors behind him. He turned, leading the two women outside where the shuttle was parked, and he couldn’t help but listen in on their soft conversation, as they admired him. He felt flattered, then turned, helping Lady D into the shuttle, “Comfortable?” he offered.

“Yes, thank you.” she shifted in her seat.

“Good.” he closed the door, then veered around the other side of the van, helping the young woman into the van, “Allow me, please.” he reached for the door, opening it like a gentleman.

I smiled, listening and watching him lay on all the charm he could, and yes he was gorgeous, well groomed and definitely a Latin-lover, with his cologne that smelled fantastic and now that I knew he was a Lycynian, the scent wasn’t anywhere on his person. Offering a friendly smile as he closed the door, I bit my lip then turned to my mom, engaging in a telepathic conversation, revealing to her, he was one of the Lycynians. I watched as her eyes grew wide in surprise, because there is not way to tell, for Billy’s assumption that all of his kind has that wet-dog smell.

“Well, clearly he had a bad experience, because this man just smell too delicious.” Lady D admired, trying not to make it too obvious that she studied him,“If only I were thirty again.” she let out a soft sigh.

“If only he weren’t such a womanizer.” I answered her.

“What?” Lady D looked at her.

“Sarah told me he has a little black book of women on the Isle.”

“Ah, well…it’s not like you’re going to marry the guy.”

“I didn’t need to hear that.” I giggled softly, hoping I didn’t draw too much attention to our telepathic conversation.

As the shuttle van parked outside the mortal dwelling, both of the passengers watched as the Italian-Lycynian climbed out, helping each of them out individually. Offering them yet another charming smile, he retreated to the drivers seat and drove off.

Watching as the van drove off, both my mom and I returned to her room, as promised. Once she closed, and locked the door, she turned to her daughter, wanting to know as much information that was allowed to be shared. Afterwards, she sat silently, surprised to hear there were Wraiths and others like Anthony on the Isle, then she revealed that in the back of her mind, she was anticipating something strange.

“Marxus says it’s difficult to tell the difference, the Wraiths here aren’t like the Nightwalkers in the Great City.” I said in a soft tone, then greeted Freya as the feline rubbed across my ankles, “Hi, pretty girl. Oh, come here.” I picked her up, and laid her in my lap, beginning to feel her small paws kneading on my knees.

“Well, then…” Lady D stood, removing her jacket, hanging it in her wardrobe, “we’ll just have to be extra vigilant about our neighbors and stop getting distracted by a certain man.” she teased.

“Would that be Anthony you’re talking about, or Marxus?”

“Both.” Lady D seemed flustered, “Now, if there’s anything I can help you with in regards to your new responsibilities, let me know because you know I’ll be there to help in any way I can.”

“I’ll take you up on that offer.” I placed Freya on the ground, then I stood, grabbing the books from the table, “Anyway, I think I’ll go. I’m still tired from the journey here, and I’ve got to walk Zanzabarr.” I turned, walking toward her door, “Um, little help?” I referred to the lock.

Walking over, Lady D unlocked the door, opening it quickly.

Feeling my mom place a kiss on my cheek, and sharing a brief hug, I veered around the corner and approached the narrow stairs leading to the second level. Returning to my room, I utilized my Telekinesis to unlock and open the door and just as I entered the suite, I smiled because there sat Zanzabarr by the door, wagging his tail. Walking over, laying the books on the bed, I fetched his leash and harness, watching as the wolf stood, letting out an awkward bark before rushing forward. I strapped him in the harness then rushed down the long hall and stairs, leading him outside where I allowed him to run free of leash just around the dwelling, but not too far.

Glancing at the wall in the distance, I swear my eyes saw the small blobs of what I guessed were poles or maybe flags, they were too far to tell for sure. Lowering my gaze, watching as Zanzabarr ran too far out, I whistled loudly summoning him back toward my distance and reaching out for his harness to attach the leash, he barked and jumped aside playfully.

“Yeah?” I laughed, jumping around, trying to catch him, “If you want this…” I removed a large dog cookie that I tucked in my pocket, “come here.” I smiled, snapping my fingers in command to heel. Watching as the wolf swiftly turned his 120 pound bulk around, sitting beside me, I scratched the fur between his ears then knelt down, gently handing him the bone which he slowly took from my hands, “Good boy.”