Secrets of Ravenstone: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book One
ℂ𝕙𝕒𝕡𝕥𝕖𝕣 𝟙𝟛

Marxus returning to the chair behind the desk, took his on true form, the same long, black haired man that appeared to her in the Whitehaven bookstore. Leaning back in the chair, placing his feet on the ledge of the desk, the man muttered sinisterly,

“If only you knew my lovely, who it is you really speak to half the time, so many secrets and so much time.” he grinned, then letting out a deep chuckle, he glanced around the study once more, before disappearing in a burst of bright swirling fire, leaving behind the faint stench of sulfur and a scorch mark on the seat of the leather chair.

Moments after he vanished, the REAL Marxus returned from his unknown and unrecorded absence. Scanning the room, he caught the strange scent left behind, thinking maybe a candle burned or the fireplace hadn’t been put out, but seeing neither was the cause, the Immortal walked over, opening the patio doors, allowing fresh air to cleanse the space.

“Hmm.” he frowned, turning to the study behind him.

Speaking with Marxus, I felt content for the moment, but in the back of my mind, I wondered what a mystery he really was. Entering the dining hall, Sarah sat with the two sisters, Margaret and Belle, laughing among themselves. Strolling in their direction, I instructed Zanzabarr to lay still beneath the bench, away from the others feet.

“Good morning.” I greeted them.

“Morning.” Margaret smiled.

“Good morning.” Belle added, then turned, helping herself to a plate of delicious breakfast sweets.

“You were up there a while, something wrong?” Sarah slid on the bench, leaning in to whisper her inquiry.

“Everything’s fine. Nothing important.” I replied, looking at her, then slid away a few inches for she was too close in my face.

“Oh, okay.” Sarah looked down at her plate, disappointed that she wasn’t in the loop of things.

“You know if I could tell you, I would.” I sensed her sadness.

“Don’t worry about it, it’s fine. Whatever.” she shrugged.

Looking at her, then over at Margaret and Belle, I grinned.

Jonathan entered the hall, walking with four of his friends, and four of the Isle’s most reputable Guardians; there were three were Wraiths and a level 5 Demon.

The tall, dark-haired Englishman was Caleb Richardson. His slender build accentuated his steampunk leather uniform, and his floppy bangs were combed back, layering nicely. Looking at Jonathan momentarily, his entire face lit up as he flashed a wide, charming smile and as he scanned the hall, his big dark eyes studied everyone present. Guns were strapped around his thighs, latched securely in place. He looked like he would have a place among the Expendables.

The second young man, American, was Nick F. Gustaffsson with blonde hair that was spiked and spray-dyed red. His big brown eyes gave the alluring appeal with a cuteness about him. Also, his uniform fit his lean-muscular build, while axes hung from two loops on his wide-studded belt.

The third, his name was Wyatt Svensson. He was taller than Nick and Caleb, with a bulkier build. His buzz-cut cropped hair and trimmed scruff around his chin, gave him the look of a Viking, not to mention the axes also hanging off his belt. He had nice features, with a baby-faced Swedish look. And he was Nick’s cousin. When he spoke, his faint Swedish accent came through.

And the fourth young man, was Justin Rhodes. His lighter black skin didn’t take away from his handsomely carved features. Studded diamond earrings pierced his ears, and his uniform for some reason, gave him that whole hip-hop artist vibe, but his mannerisms were elegant. His hair too, was also cropped short and groomed. In his case, there was none of that homeboy, pants hanging off the a** street style. His soft English voice was smooth and somewhat sexy with a rasp.

Strolling across the hall, they discussed what to do before the Guardians needed to return to the posts on the wall.

“I don’t know.” Caleb shrugged.

“I’ve got a lunch date with my girlfriend, so I won’t have much time.” Wyatt added, glancing at his watch, “Sh*t, a lunch date which I’m late for, see you guys later.” he turned, sprinting toward the foyer, and before touching the front doors, he disappeared in a swirling blue flame.

“Hey, isn’t that your girl?” Nick commented, pointing toward the table where Sarah sat with her friends, engaging in a brief moment of laughter.

“Thought the dining hall didn’t allow pets?” Caleb questioned, then approached the table, commenting on the matter at hand, “Whose dog is that?” he gestured at the wolf beneath one of the long benches, “There are no pets allowed in here.”

“He’s mine, why?” I glanced up at the young man, and for a moment, I couldn’t help but become distracted.

“Well, pets aren’t allowed, so what makes you an exception?” he mocked with a smile, taking a seat, keeping his distance from the large canine, “Do you have permission, or are you given special treatment for some reason?”

Hearing SPECIAL TREATMENT put me on defense, and as I turned to him, studying his features and staring into his big brown eyes, I answered sarcastically,

“If you have a problem with it, take it up with Marxus. But be careful, Zanzabarr doesn’t like cocky Brits like you.” I flicked my left eyebrow in affirmation, then tried peeking around his mind but there was a supernatural block preventing me, and in that moment, it occurred to me, Demons and Shayds can’t invade on the personal thoughts and memories of Wraiths. Or so it said from the Demon book.

“Ouch…sassy little bird.” Justin teased nearby.

“That’s nothing.” Jonathan joked.

“Hi, Jonathan.” Sarah greeted him with a smile.

“Hey, babe.” he walked over, sitting next to her, placing a soft kiss to her cheek.

Margaret and Belle shyly looked away, then taking notice of the fact they were surrounded by Wraiths and Demons, made them feel uncomfortable. Quickly standing from the table, the two girls excused themselves.

Caleb smiled, respecting the young woman’s sarcasm.

Nick, stepping forward, introduced himself then apologized for Caleb’s cockiness, while Justin remained silent, sitting at the table near Jonathan and Sarah.

“Another American.” I looked at him, “Nice. What part?”

“New York, when there was a New York way back then.” he replied.

“Way back then?” I wondered, “That was hundreds of years ago.” and then it dawned on me, “You’re a Wraith?” I studied him, then looked at Caleb and Justin, “All of you?”

Nick smiled, looking at his friends around the table. Looking back at her, he saw she was genuinely oblivious to fact they were among the residents.

“Uh, yeah. That’s me. That’s us.” he proclaimed, gesturing at Caleb and Justin, “And the guy that left, that was Wyatt and he’s a Demon. Just so you know. “ he winked.

“Just a Demon.” I muttered, “Right. But neither of you are uh, hungry are you?” I placed my hands around my neck.

“Nah. We just ate.” Caleb smiled charmingly, “But…” he took a quick sniff of the air, “you do smell good.” he teased, “And you’re partly B positive, good vintage.”

“Good vintage, you make it sound like I’m a walking bottle of wine.” I teased, sharing their friendly smiles, “But keep your fangs to yourself tall, dark and charming.” I teased.

“Touche love, touche.” Caleb chuckled, biting his lower lip in a sexy sort of way, then glanced down at the large wolf at her feet under the table, “Where the bloody hell did you get a dog like that?” his dark eyes grew wide, seeing the size of the beast emerge from under the bench.

“It’s a long story.” I answered.

A little while later, after the ice was broken, and learning a bit more about the Wraiths in my presence, I was saddened in a way, that the Guardians had to leave, returning to the wall. Excusing themselves from the table, Sarah and I could not help but giggle, enjoying the way how men strut.

Jonathan felt like the third wheel while the two women were distracted by his friends and their charm. It made him feel a bit insecure but catching the gaze of the half-breed, he smiled then looked away, tapping his cup on the table.

“So, what would you like to do?” I announced.

“There are beautiful horses at the stables, but ugh, since it’s raining, there goes that.” Sarah complained.

“How about the game room in the lounge?” Jonathan looked at her, “Could be fun, and there are lots of games and a pool table too.”

“That sounds fun.” I agreed.

“Cool.” Jonathan smiled, then helped the young women from their seats like the perfect gentleman.

Cleaning our area at the table, placing our plates on trays set on the ledge for the chefs to gather, the three of us exited the dining hall with Zanzabarr. Entering the lounge, I took in all of the elegant black leather furnishings with studs and tufted seats and Persian rugs laid on the wooden floor. When you enter the side entrance of the manor, left of the door, there were game tables, pin pong, chess and pool, with a large trunk set in the corner hiding boards games and boxes of playing cards. A jukebox softly played various tunes from different eras, and it was a good choice.

Sarah and I played Checkers, while Jonathan jokingly danced to a disco song on the jukebox. Sarah kept looking over at him, commenting on how cute he was and kept asking, once again, if I thought so too. I ignored her words, but yet, he was and although I didn’t like any more than just a friend, if she kept pressing the questions, I might have started noticing him in a different light. The way he grooved was something to admire for sure.

Looking at her, not knowing what to do, Sarah was scared.

Rolling my eyes, I looked at her mouthing the word GO as I nodded, gesturing toward Jonathan.

She smiled, then stood, taking his hands, and began dancing.

Shaking my head, I gathered the Checkers pieces, tucked the board back in the trunk then sat there awkwardly, feeling like the third wheel.

“Yza, come on.” Jonathan walked over, holding out his hand, “Dance with us, hmm?” he smiled.

I smiled then stood, dancing with my friends, having fun.

Zanzabarr laid by the fireplace, panting softly, moving his head back and forth, watching attentively every move being made. Letting out a soft whine, he laid his head down, trying to lick his paws through the muzzle.

After an uncomfortable encounter with his ex-girlfriend, and a group of Lycynians, a frustrated raven-haired young man, 5’8 in height and 25 years of age, entered the foyer. His name was Erik Sheng-su, and he was Jonathan’s best friend since childhood, and a level 3 pureblood. Shaking off the rain, with droplet staining the shoulders of his olive green polo shirt, he carried a cup with no lid with contents that were a blend of pomegranate and cranberry juice. Hearing laughter coming from the lounge to his left, along with Jonathan’s voice, he thought he’d stop by and say hello. Taking slow steps, watching his friend and two women dancing around, his head bobbed to the rhythm of the music before taking a sip of the juice. He became distracted, taking one extra dangerous step.

Dancing her way around Jonathan, who spun her around, she was unaware of anyone standing near the doorway and just as she danced backwards, quickly turning around, she roughly bumped, more like smacked, into someone standing there. The cup this individual carried, spilled out all over the place, on our clothes, the floor by our feet and onto the rugs.

“Yza!” Jonathan blurted, “Oh…sh*t!” he combed his fingers through his red hair, then looked at Sarah with panic.

“Bloody f*cking Hell…” Erik barked loudly in an English tone, “watch where you’re going, yeah?! F*ck me, that was all I had left of that drink!” he flicked his hands, shaking off the thick smoothie-like juice.

Standing in shock, as the liquid crept down the inner lining of my leather bustier, soaking and staining my white lace blouse, I examined the rest of myself, squirming in process.

“Me?! You’re the one who should watch where the hell you’re going!” I snapped, raising my gaze, “What the f*ck is this?!” I waited for an answer, as I stared at him, studying him quickly. He was unique, I had to admit, with the most unusual pale, dreamy gray eyes that were intense, despite the fact they were filled with rage; his dark lashes and dramatic eyebrows framed his handsome features. Scanning him up and down, his preppy-style raven hair, was cut short in the back with fuller bangs combed back, with a few wet strands hanging gracefully over his forehead. His shoulders were spotted with droplets, and as I stared into his gray eyes, I caught it, he was a level 3 pureblood, which I couldn’t sense at first, not until he a moment to calm down.

“Can I help you?!” he barked, looking at her. Scanning her up and down and quickly, her dark hair pulled into a ponytail and her dark rimmed glasses, still revealed her attractiveness that appealed to him on the spot. Taking a step back, his eyes admired her Latina curves that weren’t skinny, and were accentuated by her steampunk bustier. She was more petite than he was used to, for most of the women on the Isle were taller, at least 5’5 or more so to him, she was a piss ant, but he had no right to judge, for he himself, was no tall god either, being on the shorter height of average. “Hello?! Are you mute? You just bumped into me!” he shook aside the distraction, gesturing at her then back at himself.

“Yeah, well you were in my way!” I groaned, and with a brief glimpse into his mind, I caught his name, “And I didn’t hear you answer my question…Erik. What is this stuff?!” I looked down at myself with disgust, “This was my favorite blouse!” I complained in a feminine manner.

“How the bloody hell did you know my name?!” he stared into her dark eyes through her glasses, catching the little hint, “Ah…” he moaned with a frown, “I see, another half-breed.” he backed away disgruntled, “Think you’re cute do you, using your Telepathy to look inside my mind? Find anything you like in there?!”

“Not really, no!” I snapped, looking at him.

Jonathan and Sarah stood in the background, watching.

“Aren’t you going to do something?” Sarah looked at him.

“Nah, he needs someone to tell him off.” Jonathan looked down at her, “Bring him down a peg or two off his high horse, you know?”

“Mmm, right.” Sarah nodded.

“Believe me, it’s not something I can just shut off!” I snapped, “But what’s the matter, you don’t like half-breeds?! Well, too bad, you shouldn’t be living here because I’m not the only one on this f*cking island!” my loud voice echoed.

“Why I’m here…” Erik began unbuttoning his shirt, “is none of your business, half-breed.” he slipped it over head, leaving a white tank revealing his muscular physique, “And thanks for ruining my shirt.” he raised his right hand, holding the lump of fabric.

“Excuse me your royal jacka**ness.” I backed away, bowing mockingly, “And you’re worried about a shirt that costs a few pound at most?!” I glanced at the rugs on the floor, “Oh sh*t, Marxus is going to be pissed when he replaces out about this.”

“For your information, the shirt didn’t cost a few pounds, not at all. And secondly, all I have to do is tell him that you were not watching where you were going. Or dancing.” Erik made the argument.

“Putting all the blame on the half-breed, very mature of you.” I sneered, “Because purebloods could never do such a thing.” I folded my arms.

Groaning, Erik laid the shirt on the back of one of the chairs.

“You’re a bloody smartas** you know that?!” he took steps close to her, “And such sass love, gets you into lots of trouble around here.”

“Nothing I haven’t seen or survived before.” I stood up to him, “Now are you going to be a gentleman and apologize?”

“No.” he stared into her eyes, “Half-breed.”

“Call me half-breed one more time.” I warned.

Before he could mutter another slur, his gray eyes widened.

“What is that?” he rasped, afraid to turn around.

“Pfft.” I scoffed, then veered around Erik’s shoulder, watching as Zanzabarr slowly approached, slathering his jaws through his muzzle, and taking menacing steps around him, “What’s the matter, pureblood?” I taunted, watching as Erik turned, backing away from the large wolf, “Afraid of a little poochie?” I snapped, heeling the canine beside me.

Jonathan and Sarah snorted, containing their laughter.

“Poochie?” Sarah whispered to Jonathan.

“Mm-hmm.” he chuckled softly.

“What the f*ck is that?!” Erik pointed at the wolf, “I thought they were extinct!” he scoffed, then looked at her.

“A wolf.” I answered proudly.

Erik glanced past her, looking toward Jonathan and Sarah.

“Is she serious?!” he questioned.

“Deadly, both literally and figuratively.” Jonathan announced, taking steps forward, “And that’s not a regular wolf, mate.”

“Meaning what?!” Erik wondered.

“I couldn’t communicate with him.” Jonathan finished, “He is quite the wolf-hound, aren’t you boy?” he received a growl as the wolf turned, snarling at him, “Okay, easy.” he reassured.

“Wolf hound?” Erik stuttered, knowing they’re lethal to all of the purebloods on the island, “And Marxus allowed it here?!”

“Yes, he did, and yes, he’s a wolf.” I declared.

Reaching for his shirt, Erik quickly backed away, scampering into the foyer, disappearing through a brief portal creating a swift whoosh-like buzzing sound before vanishing completely.

Frowning, I turned looking at Sarah and Jonathan.

“Excuse me.” I huffed, grabbing Zanzabarr’s leash. Rushing toward the side entrance, retrieving my umbrella, together Zanzabarr and I ran back to the mortal dwelling.

“What just happened?” Sarah whined softly, looking around.

“Erik just met his match.” Jonathan closed his eyes.

Appearing in his room, throwing his shirt in the laundry near his bathroom, Erik huffed as he paced. He couldn’t get her out of his mind, not because he was in love, but because she was something different. Walking over, standing in front of his patio doors, he thought “WHO THE HELL WAS THAT, AND WHO THE BLOODY HELL DOES SHE THINK SHE IS, TALKING TO ME LIKE THAT? MARXUS IS NOT GOING TO HEAR THE END OF THIS, AND SHE IS JUST WHAT THIS PLACE DOES NOT NEED, JUST ANOTHER BLOODY HALF-BREED. BUT THE WOLF? HOW IS THAT POSSIBLE, WHAT MAKES HER SO…” he paused, “DAMN SPECIAL TO POSSESS SUCH A DOG, AND ONE THAT DOES NOT ATTACK HER?” he turned, feeling a headache coming on, for no one had ever spoken to him like that, or challenged him in such a way. Especially a woman. He was, and is, used to having all the younger girls and the women wanting to flirt with him because of his looks and the fact he has a nice-fat bank account, so it bothered him, meeting a girl that didn’t go all googly eyes over him. His ex-girlfriend was not among that demographic, but she wanted more out their relationship, but Erik wasn’t ready for that, so they ended the three year long course, with no hostility. Except for today, he wanted to try their relationship again, but she declined the efforts, especially since he made it clear when they originally ended things, that there was no chance of ever reconciliation on his part and for her, the sex wasn’t all that great.

Knowing he would see her again, he turned to his turtles that swam around their tank near. Sprinkling pellets on the water, he watched as they devoured the small pieces.

“There you go guys.” he smiled, laying the bottle next to the tank. Turning away, retrieving another polo shirt hanging in color organized patterns in his wardrobe closet, he was a moment away from putting it on, when someone knocked on his door. Grunting, he wondered who it could have been, and quickly swinging it open, Jonathan leaned against the wall, “Don’t give me that look.” he turned away.

“Yeah? And what look would that be?” Jonathan entered.

“You’re here to tell me what a jacka** I was to that little…to that little petite, annoying and…well that piss ant!”

“Actually, no. Not for that, even though you were a jacka** but I’m here to tell you the reason why she’s here.” Jonathan walked over, greeting the turtles, “Hey buds.”

“What do you mean why she’s here?” Erik wondered.

Turning to his friend, Jonathan grinned. Taking a seat in one of the chairs, he leaned forward, explaining what he knew and from what residents whispered throughout the packed mortal dwelling, and to add, from questions Marxus had answered.

“You already know she’s a half-breed, but that woman is…”

“Oh wait, you hear that?!” Erik interrupted, holding his hand to his ear, “That’s me not caring.” he stood, walking toward his fireplace, leaning his hands against the mantle.

Jonathan frowned, as he too, stood.

“Erik, come on mate, I’ve known you since we were kids, you shouldn’t an a** all the time, you don’t even know her, so you should give her a chance. She’s really cool, once you get past her sarcasm.” he chuckled fondly, “She’s been through a lot, her mum too, so you’re not the only one going through sh*t.”

“Sarcasm? That’s what you call that back there?!” Erik turned, scoffing bluntly, “I’ve never met a woman who’s so bloody tiny with such a mouthy-attitude like that, and American too, that says a lot.”

“That’s not fair.” Jonathan argued, “Nick’s American, and you do realize there are others here from the States, right?”

“Yeah, whatever.” Erik shrugged, “And the pet wolf, did you see that size of that beast?! It could bite someone’s head clean off how could Marxus allow it here where there are Demons, knowing what it could do?!” he shook his head, “I would go on, but I won’t waste my time, nor will I give her the satisfaction in knowing that she pushed my buttons the wrong way. She’s not worth it, so if we’re done here, I will be at the pub, replenishing my drink, with hopes she will not be there to spill it again.” he walked around Jonathan, “Are you leaving?”

“Yeah mate, whatever.” Jonathan nodded in disappointment. Entering the hall, remaining silent, he turned to Erik, and even though he loved him like a brother, sometimes Erik was just too thick headed, that not even he could get through to him half the time, “Catch you later.” he turned down the hall.

Erik stood frustrated before closing his door, following after Jonathan.

“Oi, wait up mate…” he called out.

Slamming my door, beginning to pace, I unzipped my leather bustier, revealing my stained blouse. Muttering words under my breath, I looked at Zanzabarr who tilted his head.

“Can you believe that guy?! I mean, gorgeous yes, but such an a**hole and jacka** on the inside!” I huffed and when I released a deep sigh, the trash can near the fireplace caught a flame, “Sh*t!” I cursed, scampering over attempting to, but failing, extinguish it, “What is it with me and f*cking trash cans?!” I knelt on my knees. Sighing softly, petting Zanzabarr as he inched closer, resting his large head in my lap, I smiled as he rolled over, wanting me to scratch his belly. Afterwards, I tossed his toy. Standing, I slowly approached my patio, opening the doors for fresh air that filled my lungs with a cool crispness. Taking in deep breaths, I scanned the grounds out and below, then caught a glimpse of the three Guardians walking across the estate following the path nearby. I offered an awkward wave as they raised their gaze, returning the greeting with charming smiles, “Just nod.” I whispered to myself, and feeling embarrassed, I retreated inside.

Pacing around my room, replaceing a fresh pair of clothes, I took a shower, washing off the stickiness of the thick smoothie. As I exited the bathroom, feeling refreshed, dressed quickly then fetched Zanzabarr’s leash, taking him with me once more. The rain had finally let up, enabling me to walk around, but my eyes made sure I wasn’t followed, or with the chances of bumping into anyone else. Entering through the lounge, both Sarah and Jonathan near the fireplace shared a moment of laughter when they glanced up, noticing my return. Plopping into the one of the chairs, Zanzabarr laid by my feet.

“Hey, listen…” Jonathan leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. Sitting across from her, he smiled then glanced at his feet, “I’m sorry about Erik, he’s like that with most of the women, most of the time, but as Demons, regardless if we are purebloods or half-breeds, sometimes we caught off and temperamental. It happens, you know.”

“I know that all too well Jonathan, about a Demons’ temper. I have one, both because my DNA and just because it’s natural, but that’s still no excuse, pureblood or not. I mean, all he had to do was just apologize on the spot and then, maybe, things could have been handled better.” I answered, “Speaking of, he isn’t coming back is he, because I’m not changing again.” my eyes looked around.

“No.” Jonathan leaned back, “He’s gone to visit his father in your dwelling actually, so you ’re lucky to have missed each other by half an hour or so.” he glanced at his feet.

“Please tell me doesn’t live there.” I questioned.

“No, he lives in the Wraith dwelling across from you and uh, from what I hear…” he scratched his chin, “both of you have adjacent rooms, they’re directly across from each other. So…” he smiled, “that should be fun.”

“Fun?” I grew agitated, “Great, remind me to make sure that my curtains are always drawn before I walk around naked.” I teased, then looked at Jonathan whose eyes grew wide, “I was kidding Jonathan.” I smiled then felt my face turning red.

“Um, hello? Am I missing something?” Sarah glanced back and forth between the pureblood and half-breed.

“No, no you’re not.” I looked at her, “Anyway, can we please talk about something else before I set something on fire.”

“Like what?” Sarah wondered.

“I don’t know.” I shrugged, “Why don’t you both tell me how many Demons, Wraiths, and Lycynians there are here?”

Jonathan remained quiet, allowing Sarah the chance, sensing her agitation that she wasn’t allowed to speak.

Noticing the tension between the two of them, it wasn’t my place to question things so looking at Sarah, I listened as she explained what she knew from her brother Nathan, and from Marxus of course, that there were approximately 1850-1900 residents on the island.

“Give or take, there are like…” Sarah glanced at Jonathan, “I don’t know, five hundred Demons, two hundred and fifty of the Wraiths, maybe a little over seven hundred mortals, that includes the practitioners, and this one, I know for a fact, cause my brother’s a Lycynian obviously, but there are three hundred of them and one hundred half-breeds like you.” she gestured at the young woman sitting across from her.

“Don’t you mean us?” I remarked curiously.

“Excuse me?” Sarah argued, “No I’m not.” she awkwardly looked at Jonathan, who nodded in affirmation; it had never presented a problem for him.

“Yes you are, you’re a half-breed too. Half Lycynian though.” I revealed, looking at Jonathan, “Can’t say I’ve ever met a half-breed Lycynian, I mean the scent is all over you, or is there another reason the scent is all over your person?” I tilted my head, catching unpleasant images from her mind of intimate moments with a young man whose face was blurred.

Jonathan frowned, leaning forward.

“What does that mean?” he wondered, looking at Sarah.

She stuttered, trying to form a sentence.

“What’s the matter, Sarah? Lost for words?” I looked at her.

“Hey, it’s all right.” Jonathan rubbed her back gently, “Really.”

Pushing his hands away, Sarah stood, rushing through the lounge toward the pool table, leaving Jonathan with both of his hands raised in confusion.

“What did I say?” he rasped.

“Nothing.” I replied, looking at her over my shoulder, where she paced back and forth before glaring at me with stern blue eyes.

“That was just an assumption, you know that right?!” Sarah found her words, “My brother is a Lycynian and spends time with me, so that explains why the scent is all over me, duh!”

Raising my hands, surrendering the conversation, I shrugged.

“Whatever you say, Sarah.” I turned to her. Knowing that the Australian sitting across from me could hear my telepathic thoughts, I locked them away in a place where not even his own Telepathy could reach. Shaking my head in his direction, I was finished with this conversation.

Jonathan huffed softly, then glanced at his feet, wondering if there was something Sarah was keeping from him, and since it was against the arcane rules of deliberately invading one’s mind, he would if he needed to, if it meant replaceing out what Sarah kept from him. He wasn’t the type of man, that would accept secrets in their relationship because he was honest and an open book, there wasn’t anything you didn’t already know about him. Clearing his throat, clapping his hands together, he stood, breaking the tension between the two women in his company, suggesting a game of pool. Taking steps toward the table, he turned to them, reaching for two cue sticks.

“What do you say?” he grinned, but his blue eyes didn’t.

I stood, approaching Jonathan, holding back a string of words. Walking around Sarah, I sensed she fueled with her Lycynian half-breed temperament.

“Are you coming?” I asked.

“Piss off!” she barked.

“Ouch.” I mocked.

Erik sat with his father in his room decorated according to the man’s Asian culture and background. His father, Hiromi Sheng-su adopted Erik when he was three, after being left on his doorstep. Sitting there, Erik relayed the day’s events from his point-of-view, arguing with Lycynians, to the spat with his ex-girlfriend, then onto how the petite half-breed bumped into him without apologizing. Looking at his father, the man sat quietly, listening attentively.

“What? Don’t look at me like that!” Erik complained.

“It sounds like you like her.” Hiromi mumbled, “This girl.”

“Wh-what?!” Erik objected, standing quickly to pace, “No!” he shook his head, “Absolutely not, and if you met her, I think you would understand. I mean, Father…she’s a mouthy little nightmare!”

“To me, this sounds like a fresh experience for you, compared to all of the other women you come complaining to me about. I will have to meet her, and see it for myself. Although, I did think the last girl you were with, was very nice and sweet.” Hiromi frowned, then worried, “You’re not confused, are you?”

“Confused?” Erik looked at him.

“Yes, you know? Confused. About who you are as a man.”

Realizing where his father was taking the conversation, Erik turned, frowning deeply as he protested loudly on the hinted topic.

“Father, I resent the fact that you’re even thinking that! I am NOT gay, I just don’t have much luck with the women here!”

Nodding, Hiromi persisted his observations as he stood.

“All I am saying son, is that here you are having troubles in relationships with women, and there is the friendship you have with Jonathan, who I know is a good and STRAIGHT forward young man so what am I, as your Father who does not support or accept such lifestyles, much less raising you in it, to think about all of this, hmm?” he frowned, beginning to show his strict Asian teachings.

Erik couldn’t believe this was happening, especially coming from his own father, biological or not. Turning to the man, he stood tall, even at 5’8, and clenched his fists tightly.

“I’m only going to say this once and you’re going to listen.” he groaned firmly, “I am not, nor have I ever been, or will be, gay. Is that f*cking clear?! I came here hoping for your…” he looked around, “fatherly advice, and I get this?! How do you think that makes me feel?! Besides, I am sure that you had many women in your life, before meeting and marrying your wife, no?”

Hiromi studied his son, knowing he had a point, even at his young age. Nodding once more, he apologized but was just making sure. Stepping forward, placing his hands on Erik’s shoulders, he smiled, squeezing them gently before digging his thumbs on a nerve that crippled Erik, hunching the young man forward.

“I have apologized more than once, but if you ever come here, to my home, and speak to me with such disrespect again, I will not promise what consequences there will be.” he warned firmly, “Understand, my son?” he lifted Erik’s chin, looking into his gray eyes, “I didn’t hear the reply.”

“Y-yes, I hear you.” Erik rasped.

Releasing the pressed nerve, Hiromi walked around him.

Erik fell to his knees, rolling his shoulders, then turned to his father who approached the fireplace, removing a tea pot from a hook above the flames. It was tea that couldn’t be brewed in an ordinary kitchen or modern kettle.

Nathan and three of his friends Adam, Kyle and Logan had just entered the foyer when they heard laughter booming over music that erupted from the lounge. Making their way in the direction, Nathan peeked his head around the corner, observing a joyful and carefree game of pool between Sarah, Jonathan and the young woman he had his eye on. Glancing over his shoulder toward his friends with a smile, he decided to join on the fun, or at least his version of it. Nathan, born a pureblood Lycynian, experienced the transition for years but he still hadn’t grasped the urges. He treated women like crap, abusing them both verbally or physically, and having that Lycynian temperament only added to his list of flaws and the list was miles long. He had to be control of everything. But if he had the help of an elder of the pack, he could have learned to control his urges and impulses but Nathan didn’t have that guidance, and didn’t want it either, being content in his ways, and that was that. There was no changing his spots.

Standing in the doorway overlooking the game area, his blue eyes observed the young half-breed standing in front of the pool table. Her back faced him in an unfortunate angle, and as he thought of playing the games he does with all women, he quietly made his way forward, standing behind her, unaware of her wolf’s presence. Looking toward Adam, Logan and Kyle, they sat on the couch playing a game of cards, giving him the space to do his dance.

Sarah had just hit a score on the pool table when she glanced up, seeing Nathan standing behind the half-breed puffing his chest like male in heat. She smiled at him but he didn’t share it because all of his attention was on HER.

“Yza…” Jonathan warned, tightly gripping the cue stick, but then he laid in on the table, “Yza…”

“Hold on…” I had my cue stick lined up for a shot but then I heard Zanzabarr growling deeply, slathering his jaws and it was then, I sensed someone behind me, before they roughly pressed themselves against me from behind, which was in all ways, uncomfortable but the individuals’ intentions were very clear. Straightening my posture, quickly turning around, my eyes leered at Nathan who stood close within my personal space. Feeling uneasy, sensing he gave off all of the signals of being in a sexual mood, I felt a lump in my throat.

“Hello again, little bird. Looking quite tasty and pretty today, and oh you smell terrific.” Nathan whispered in a low voice, sniffing the around her, “You’ll fulfill my cravings and all of my desires just fine, being pure and all.” he eyed her up and down sexually, giving a quick lick to his lower lip.

Knowing he didn’t mean my perfume, and knowing he meant my virginity, I backed away around the table, looking into his eyes that slowly turned a golden-yellow like Zanzabarr’s and as I continued staring into them, I warned breathing heavily,

“I told you the day we met, I’m not interested…what part of that don’t you understand?!” I held onto the cue stick firmly, prepared to defend myself, “I’m not…interested, teen wolf!” I then felt hands gently reach for my arm and turning around, Jonathan slowly began pulling me behind him as he took slow steps forward, standing in front of me.

“Oh, you’re feisty. I like that in a woman.” he stepped forward, then paused, feeling Jonathan’s hand press against his chest.

“Don’t.” Jonathan warned.

“She’s not the type that needs a protector, Crocodile Dundee.” Nathan mocked, then veered past his shoulder toward her, “Your fire will make the sex all the more exciting. None of the others resisted me, so you really don’t know what you’re missing, little bird.” he backed away, watching as she veered around Jonathan with her wolf, standing alongside the Australian Demon. His blue eyes glanced down at the hound that growled deeply, threatening and protective of her, waiting for her command to attack. Leering over at Jonathan and Sarah he continued smugly, “Come on love, I just want to get to know you, that’s all. You have fire, and I like a girl with fire, is that such a bad thing?! I don’t think it is, so why don’t we get past this and go somewhere and talk, hmm? Well, f*ck first and then talk but I’m not much of a talker, however, I promise I won’t be something you can forget.” he disgustingly grabbed hold of his groin, emitting a low howl, “I’m on fire, baby.”

Looking away, feeling nauseous, I closed my eyes.

“Nathan, just leave us alone.” Jonathan warned, “We’re not bothering you, or your kind, so just…leave.” his soft voice dropped in a blunt, serious tone.

“No one’s talking to you, Aussie. Or is it down under, I lost track.” Nathan leered at him, “But I’m sure you, the two of you have gone down under, hmm?” he bit his lip, looking at Sarah, who turned away in shame.

Adam, Kyle and Logan lowered their cards, slowly standing.

“Ah-ah, you sit!” Jonathan turned to them, seating the three men with a simple wave of his hand, using his Telekinesis to keep them in place.

“I’m going to say this one more time, so listen carefully.” my voice proclaimed, “Two things will happen if you don’t stay the Hell away from me.” I opened my eyes, leering at his filth, “One, I’ll burn off your precious jewels and the jockstrap you think accentuates you minuscule pr*ck and balls and in the process, I’ll show you the heat you so much desire and two…” I raised my hand, counting two fingers, “once I have my fun with you, I’ll let Zanzabarr shred whatever is left of you.” I threateningly pressed the cue stick against his shoulder, “He loves fresh meat, so what do you say, teen wolf?” I heard faint gasps. Quickly scanning my arms, steam faintly escaped the surface of my frame, but in the young man’s eyes from his twisted point-of-view, it turned him on, “What’s your answer, Nathan?” I pressed the tip of the cue stick harder.

When pushed into a corner, threatened, or harassed, the half that’s Demon takes over as a protective shield, so to speak, so that does not make me some tough stuff on the block, that is not the case here! The mortal part me of exists, of course, it’s the compassionate and tenderness, but when moments like this come around, having to stand up for myself, any traces of mortality disappear.

“Getting hot, are we?” Nathan muttered, practically foaming at the mouth, “Perhaps I’ll take you right here, right now!” he growled.

Jonathan released his telepathic hold upon Nathan’s friends to help her, but before he could, she whistled loudly. He acted swiftly, grabbing Sarah’s arm as she attempted running forward to stand between her brother and the half-breed, and pulled her aside as the large black wolf lunged forward, and without hesitation, pushing the young Lycynian to the ground. Through his muzzle, he growled, leaving strands of droll hanging from his powerful jaws.

“Yza!” Sarah pleaded, watching as she stood by watching the wolf act upon her summons, “Don’t do this, please! He is my brother!”

Zanzabarr felt the young man beneath him, attempt to push him off, but he turned, snapping at his hands, and this was the first time since his pack mother’s training, that she gave the command to attack, and god what a magnificent creature he is!

Walking over, standing alongside Nathan, ignoring Sarah’s pleas, I glanced down at him, listening to his pleas, while his friends rushed around Sarah and Jonathan, approaching the table in cautious steps, avoiding the confrontation, unless provoked. My dark eyes, with a violent flame, leered at them, before they veered back down to Nathan, and scratching the scruff of Zanzabarr’s neck, I knelt down threatening low tone,

“This is your last warning, teen wolf, so listen. The next time you say, or try anything like this again, I’ll order him to tear out your throat, do you understand? And if don’t believe me, here’s a little something to remind you of our little…” I took a moment to look around, “encounter.” I stood, pulling the wolf back ordering him to heel, and before Nathan could rush to his feet, I firmly placed my right foot on his groin, giving a slight twist that caused him to groan in discomfort as he felt the pressure, “Ah-ah…” I warned his friends, “take another step and you’re his.” I referred to Zanzabarr who approached.

Raising their hands, they backed away, while their eyes each returned to their natural colors, after flashing their Lycynian yellow wolf-like eyes.

“Stop this, stop this please!” Sarah pleaded loudly, continuing to pull away from Jonathan’s grasp, “Yza, please…don’t, he’s my brother, PLEASE!” she cried.

“Sarah, she’s not going to kill him.” Jonathan groaned, as his grip grew tighter around her arm, before wrapping his arms completely around her, “Calm down.”

Turning my head toward her, I licked the front row of teeth, then focused down at Nathan, leaning in, knowing he saw the flame in my eyes. Hearing his silence, I stood straight, feeling an energy beginning to rush from my feet, surging upward throughout my body. Stepping back, pulling Zanzabarr with me, I watched as the young man on the ground, yelped as he patted out flames that ignited on his groin.

“Getting hot, are we?” I mocked then laughed mockingly.

Suddenly, the flames in the fireplace erupted in a tall burst as if someone added fuel to the logs, before settling back to their soft crackling and pops.

Adam, Logan, and Kyle rushed forward, pulling Nathan to his feet, and scampering toward the lounge, Jonathan let go of Sarah who ran toward her brother.

“Are you all right?” she grabbed the fabric of his vest, looking into his squinting blue eyes.

“One day half-breed…” Nathan leered at her across the room, ignoring Sarah’s concern and presence, “I’m going to catch you all alone, just you wait pretty bird. And you…” he leered toward Jonathan who stood in front of her, “you’ll be dust in the wind, if I ever catch you alone, got it?!”

“Is that right?” Jonathan frowned, “Tell me, Nathan…do you, or any of your mutts know what Thermokinesis is?” he studied them, “No? Look it up!” his hands began sparking with arcane sigils that slowly took on a bright greenish hue, “Now get lost before I boil you from the inside out, and into nothing but a pile of clothes laying in your blood and muck!” he raised his hands, beginning to clench them closed.

“Jonathan, stop it! Yzavela, stop it!” Sarah screamed, “Nathan, just…” she turned to him, pleading once more, “just go, do it for me, please?”

Looking at her, Nathan bit his lower lip.

“Yeah, sure…anything for you, sis.” he groaned, “Anything for you, remember that.” he gazed deeper into her blue eyes. He turned away with his friends, huffing in discomfort with a deflated ego.

“Catch you later, teen wolf!” I hollered in mockery. Shaking my head, feeling disgruntled and flustered, I then felt sick to my stomach, tossing the cue stick onto the table.

“What the bloody hell is wrong with you?! Both of you?! Ugh, bloody Demons!” Sarah proclaimed, then turned, rushing out of the lounge in swift strides.

“Sarah!” Jonathan called out after her, but she didn’t answer.

“Jonathan…” I sighed, “let her go. Give her time, hmm?”

Jonathan hunched slightly, before straightening his posture. Turning to her, with his hands still clenched in fists, fighting off the power that wanted to be released, he was surprised to see her approach him, reaching for his hands.

“What are you doing, don’t.” he worried.

“It’s all right.” I gave a reassuring smile. Gently taking both his hands, holding them in mine, I studied the lingering hue and magic before it faded, “I’ve never seen that one up close.” I ran the tips of my fingers along his palms, then I raised my gaze, looking into his blue eyes.

“Yeah, well…” he gently pulled his hands away, looking deep into her brown eyes, “don’t tell Marxus, magic like that is off limits and forbidden. So…shh.” he placed a finger to his lips.

“Your secret is safe with me.” I winked.

Nathan and his friends retreated to the atrium. Sitting around, scoffing as they shared their hatred for Demons and like kind, Nathan grew agitated, shouting out as he slapped the large plants leaves hanging over his shoulders,

“Why didn’t you blokes come to my defense back there when I was being attacked by that she-b*tch and that monster?!” he looked at the three Lycynians, “You’re f*cking useless!”

“What were we supposed to do about it Nate, hmm?” Adam argued, “Start a war with a Demon, and then have the whole legion of them come down on our heads? We’re not stupid, we know their strength and it’s true what he said about the Thermokinesis…I had a friend that was killed by it, it’s not a way to die.” he shook his head, dismissing the unpleasant, and gruesome memory.

“Oh, shut up!” Nathan barked, pushing Adam aside, “I don’t need your lectures, I’ve had enough loud mouths for one day, and now there’s this bullsh*t?!” he gestured his hands down at his scorched leather trousers.

“If you don’t want it happening again, you should think about wearing fire-retardant trousers, or better yet, wearing a set of knickers like the rest of us.” Logan mocked.

“Didn’t I just say shut the f*ck up?!” Nathan’s big blue eyes quickly flashed yellow.

“Look mate, don’t take it out on us. We didn’t get involved, cause it had nothing to do with us, all right?” Kyle argued, as he grew tired of Nathan’s attitude, “You asked us to hang out with you, we didn’t volunteer.”

Before Nathan could continue his rants, entering the atrium, was a young Irish woman in her mid 20s, named Amy, with green eyes and blue dyed hair with her natural strawberry blonde roots beginning to grow through. Walking behind her black twins, Patricia and Alisha, both beautiful. Nathan’s eyes grew wide with lust, for she was his play thing so to speak, sleeping with her whenever he wanted rough sex. He didn’t consider her his girlfriend, he didn’t love her but the fact that she was a female Lycynian, always in a sexual mood of her own, he knew he could always turn to her for a good time.

Standing there in the doorway with Patricia and Alisha, Amy looked at Nathan, feeling flustered for she loved him, but she knew he could never give her what she wanted, nor will she ever hear him say the words. The smile she shared with the twins quickly faded, knowing what it was he wanted from her.

“Amy, let’s go. We’ll come back later.” Patricia suggested.

“Yeah, come on.” Alisha added softly, tapping Amy’s arm.

Frustrated and angry, Nathan stomped forward, leaving his three friends behind as he approached her, grabbing hold of her right arm in a tight grip.

“Oi, let her go!” Patricia argued, trying to pull his hand free.

“This has nothing to do with you!” Nathan pushed her aside with his free hand, then turned to Amy, “Amy, I need to talk to you. NOW.” he ordered in an condescending manner, then turned her toward the door.

“No!” the female Lycynian barked, pulling away from his grip, “I’m here with my friends Nathan, as are you, so not now!” she looked down at him and her green eyes grew wide, “And what the bloody hell happened to your trousers?”

“It’s not important, look I just…need to talk to you. Please?” he softly pleaded, “And this? Let’s just say I got too close to a fireplace, that’s all.” he cleared his throat, “Amy please…” he stared into her green eyes, laying on the charm.

Melting like butter, as always, gazing into his handsome face and blue eyes, Amy couldn’t say no as he flashed her a sexy grin. Sighing softly, he was so convincing also intimidating, but sexy and wild. She closed her eyes, feeling a sensual tingle run up and down her spine as he traced her arm with the tips of his fingers, turning on all her switches. Biting her lip, she gave in, and turning to her friends, she was trapped.

“It’s obliviously important, so I’ll catch you later?”

“Yeah, sure Amy, whatever.” Patricia replied, “You shouldn’t be doing this, he’s not worth it, you deserve better than him.”

“We warn you all the time.” Alisha added, but she wasn’t sure if their friend had her, because Nathan had walked away with her, more like pulled her away, through the back doors that exited the atrium, “What a shame.” she mumbled, then looked at Nathan’s friends who smiled, “Don’t even think about it.” she rolled her eyes, turning away with her sister.

“I can walk.” Amy growled, feeling Nathan’s hands pushing her around the manor. Rushing across the estate, toward the direction of the Lycynian dwelling, Amy wondered if any of this was worth it. Nathan was her first, after his persistent advances and once she gave in, she was is, and the only time she ever felt loved was when they were intimate, but she always felt cheap afterwards, like a whore he picked up off the streets for a good night. And never being with another man, she thought he was the best lover there was.

Continuing to pull her to his room, knowing that there was no one around to hear her cries, he couldn’t wait, feeling an urgent ache that needed to be satisfied. Quickly opening the door, roughly grabbing Amy toward him, she growled after she slapped him, but he was the dominant male, pushing her toward the bed. Slamming the door, he ran toward the bed, pulling up her dress then unbuckled his belt.

Trying to push him away, feeling his hands working between her legs, Amy moaned fearfully, knowing this time was going to be different and once she felt him, she squeezed her eyes shut, holding back her tears and cries as he violated her in a way he had never done before. This wasn’t consensual, and she didn’t enjoy it. Gripping the sheets, she bit her lip, trying to hide her pain and heartache.

Two hours transpired, and Nathan emerged from the shower, surprised to see Amy laying on the bed, curled in a fetal position, crying with her knees bent to her chin, mumbling to herself. Walking over, unlocking his door, he swung it open, ordering her to leave. He didn’t even look at her, shuffling a shirt in his hands.

Amy breathed deeply as she slowly pushed herself into a sitting position, leaning on her hands, feeling nothing but hatred for him; after this, she was done. This was literally the straw that broke the camel’s back. Straightening the fabric of her torn sleeve, she reached down pulling up her lace panties, and awkwardly climbed off the bed. Lowering the hemline of her steampunk dress, she stumbled toward the door, passing him slowly.

“Don’t go too far, hmm?” Nathan groaned, looking at her.

She paused, keeping her back him.

“I’m done.” she whispered.

“What was that?” Nathan frowned, “You’re mumbling.”

“I said…” Amy turned to him, “I’m done.” she felt tears sting her eyes, before streaming down her red cheeks.

Nathan grinned, scoffing at her bravery.

“You’ll come back, you always do. You can’t resist me.” he held out his hands, leaning them on the door frame, looming above her in a menacing, but sexy manner.

“No, I won’t.” she groaned, “One day, you’re going to be torn apart for the things you’ve done and when that day comes, you’ll replace I didn’t shed a tear.” she took a deep breath, “So goodbye, Nathan.” she turned, running down the hall toward the end and up the stairs to her room with tears and a broken heart, with bruises and scratches on her body. Coming to her room, there were Patricia and Alisha standing outside her door, waiting for her like they’ve always done. Reaching out her arms, hugging them both, she opened her door and let them in.

Nathan slammed his door, then turned, plopping on the bed. Looking around, he realized he had been dumped by the only one who ever gave him what he wanted, when he wanted it, other than another lover but that was complicated. Sitting forward, leaning his elbows on his knees, he roughly yanked at his hair trying to pull it out.

“F*CK!” he shouted, knowing he screwed things up.