by Tia Didmon
Jordane pulled her close to him. “I am no expert, but I believe a newly-mated female should be as happy as her male.”
She put her hands around his neck. “I was thinking about Ed. He would have loved this. The warriors. Restoring the shelter. I wish he could have seen it.”
Jordan kissed her forehead. “He will always be in our hearts. He was a gentle warrior. One for those that could not fight for themselves.”
“Yes, he was. I appreciate everything you are doing here.”
“Ed was important to you. We will honor his sacrifice every time we look upon the beauty of this place. When you look at his face it will remind you only of his love for you.”
Her heart bloomed. Jordane’s kindness matched the man she’d wished was her father. “That’s beautiful. Thank you.”
He watched her for a long time. “It isn’t the loss of your friend. Your soul feels... heavy.”
“I won’t get away with anything with this bond. Will I?”
“The purpose of the bond is to ensure one another’s happiness. I cannot help ease your burden if I don’t know it exists.”
“Humans talk to one another,” Kiki said.
“You would say nothing and we both know it.”
She frowned. “I feel... responsible for the recent attacks.
“Santon hired the Ladon.” Jordane ran his hand through her hair. “We disregarded how the Ladon fund their exploits. They are criminals. We won’t overlook that fact again.”
“He didn’t seem to know what they were. He called them the Ladon syndicate.”
Jordane nodded. “To the criminals they are the Ladon cartel. Drugs, guns and prostitution. They appear involved in it all. They are a disgrace to the demon race and we will purge all those guilty of wrong-doing.”
Kiki’s heart skipped. “If you found a Ladon child. Would you kill it?”
He frowned. “Of course not. If we find children, regardless of their race, they are given a chance to learn our ways. We are incapable of killing a soul until after it has committed an evil act.”
She pulled him closer. “I’m glad. I feel like we will kill many people that the Ladon forced into a path they didn’t choose.”
“It is the nature of a dictatorship,” Jordane said.
“Yeah. I’m getting the impression that Louis Lestant could have given Hitler a few tips.”
“That may be true...” Jordane turned his head as if he were listening. “They have summoned us to the mansion.”
“Dante?”
Jordane nodded.
She rose from the bed. “Let’s go.”
Kiki ran through the door. The ride to the mansion had been silent. While Jordane had said nothing, she could feel his concern through the bond. Her apprehension has escalated with each mile. Laura ran up to her hugging her as soon as she entered. “What happened?”
Laura released her. “My idiot brother happened.”
Her stomach rolled. “What did he do?”
“He destroyed the entire Chavez Cartel. Then he went after your father,” Laura said.
Kiki stumbled back. “He what? He won’t make it out alive.”
Laura closed her eyes before speaking. “He went on camera and said the PIA is at war with the Columbian drug cartels. He said who he was and that if you fuck with the PIA or its members that you will reap the consequences. With the Chavez plantation burning behind him. The image was effective.”
She swallowed hard. “What are the Senators saying?”
“My father is furious. Senator Baker loves what Jenner did. He’s the one who sent Jenner the team... and weapons.”
“What kind of team?”
Laura played with the necklace at her chest. “Jenner has two Seattle squads with him. Two of the men have DK10’s.”
“Shit. They are building a death squad at the Seattle office,” Kiki said.
“It gets worse,” Laura whispered.
“How?”
“Jenner was holding a DK10 when he announced himself.”
Kiki’s mouth dropped. “Why would he do that? He knew what he was committing to.”
Laura shook her head. “He says he doesn’t care. That you and I have to remain safe. Santon sent an order to kill you... and me.”
“FUCK!” Kiki screamed.
Jordane pulled her to his side. “Jenner will be fine.”
She pushed him away. “How can you say that?”
“He knowingly took up a crystal with the purpose of protecting his demon family. This was the reason the crystals were created. That his sister is the queen made him a perfect candidate.”
Kiki shook her head. “He won’t take orders well.”
“It is not ideal for me either as he has royal status,” Jordane said.
She turned to Laura. “Jenner is royalty?”
Laura sighed. “Because of me.”
Kiki rubbed her eyebrows. “Just... wow.”
“I know. The bastard child ends up a queen. Who would have thought?” Laura said.
“You were never a bastard. Jenner loved you the moment he met you. Everyone saw it. They just misinterpreted what kind of love it was. Don’t feel bad because your father’s jealous of you.”
Laura stepped back, surprised. “Why would you think he’s jealous of me? He’s a state senator and doesn’t respect the demon race so my title as queen means nothing to him.”
“He’s jealous because Jenner loves you. Fuck, he blew up one of the most volatile countries in the world because they threatened you and announced it. Every crime family will want him dead but will fear the repercussions. Opposing governments will want the same thing. Jenner’s only friends are the ones he has now. Every connection he makes going forward will be politically motivated.”
“Jenner, what have you done?” Laura whispered.
“Where is Jenner now? How long before he gets back?” Kiki asked.
Laura blinked back tears. “He’s trapped at the US consulate. The senators are working on evacuating him.”
Jordane motioned the empty corner. “I will send two of my warriors to retrieve him and his two comrades.”
Laura hugged him. “Thank you Jordane. I just can’t lose him right now.”
He nodded. “I can do nothing less for a man who would protect his family.”
Kiki sighed. “He’s also a warrior now. Getting him and the two squad members back, returns three crystals to the fold.”
Jordane inclined his head. “That had occurred to me.”
Kiki approached the door as Chad entered. “Hey, Rex.”
Chad laughed. “I believe you’re jealous of my other form.”
She tapped her chin. “You know what? I think I am.”
“We can still run together and you will be almost as fast as me.”
Kiki shook her head. “No way. Even Valen said he and Dante can’t catch you when... wait. You mean the crystal. It makes me faster?”
“It does. In your warrior form, with your bonding with Jordane, your...”
“Don’t say I’m part demon. I need at least a century to wrap my head around that. How did you know I’m bonded with Jordane?”
Chad cleared his throat. “There is a change in a female’s scent after she bonds. This occurs during...”
Kiki held up her hand. “Sorry I asked. I’ll skip the demon version of the birds and the bees.”
“Of course,” Chad said.
“Why are you here?”
“Just a routine checkup for Maddie I assume. Laura asked me to stop by.”
“She’s upstairs.”
Chad started to leave then turned. “You are the first female warrior to bond with another. I am looking forward to your development.”
Kiki shrugged. “I won’t be the prettiest girl at the ball but I will be the strongest.”
“You will also gain an extra four inches in warrior form.”
“No shit. Jordane didn’t mention that.”
“He would not consider it a... boon.”
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Kiki’s eyes narrowed. “How did you know I hate being short?”
Chad smiled. “Call it a hunch... or the fact that you and Laura joke about it often.”
She shrugged. “I could be three feet tall and I wouldn’t care when I’m around Laura.”
“That is the true beauty and power of the queen.”
Kiki put a hand on her hip. “How come Valen and Dante are princes but Laura is the queen.”
Chad’s smile fell from his face. “Valen will never claim his status as king.”
“Because of Laura?”
“Because it would mean the destruction of human and demon alike,” Chad said.
“Why does everyone keep saying that?”
“Laura holds the balance between human and demon. She holds the power of the king. His love in one hand and her love for humanity in the other. She is the most powerful person alive, and she doesn’t realize it.”
“I think she knows Valen wouldn’t survive without her,” Kiki said.
“Valen couldn’t but the king could, and he’d destroy the world and there’d be nothing we could do about it.”
Kiki felt a wave of nausea. “Laura protected at all times. I’m on board with that motto.”
Chad’s face softened. “Laura chose you before she chose us. Valen mentioned you threatened to kill him when you first met.”
She shrugged. “Only if Laura told me too.”
“Good. I should see to Maddie.”
“Before you go. How is Blam?”
“He is better, Dante was infused with the king’s power when he healed him, so that will give him a little more time. Still, with mine and Dante’s help he will be lucky to gain another year or two.”
“Isn’t there something you can do?”
“We do not possess the power of immortality. While we can heal his organs, we can not make him younger.” Chad ascended the stairs.
Kiki turned as Valen entered the parlor. He glanced toward the stairs.
“Do you know why Chad’s here?” he asked.
“Laura called him. Don’t you know?”
He looked irritated. “No.”
“Is it Maddie? Chad assumed he was here to see her.”
“No. Maddie is in the barn with Molly.”
Kiki raised an eyebrow. “Is the calf okay?”
“Yes. Dante and Jessica are teaching Maddy how to care for her,” Valen said.
“That’s sweet.” She glanced up the stairs. “Can’t you do your mind meld thing with Laura.”
“Laura is blocking me and the bond is not a mind meld,” he said with irritation.
“Is she planning a surprise for you?”
Valen spun. “It’s difficult to... yes, that is possible. While she shares most of her memories with me, she blocks a few of them as she is now. I do detect a level of excitement from her.”
“I’m surprised she blocks anything from you.”
Valen looked at her. “The memories she blocks are not her own.”
Kiki stiffened. Of course Laura would keep the things she saw private. “I..”
“There is no need to explain. I respect her wish to keep your past private. There’s no reason for me to see such events.”
She cleared her throat. “Is it your birthday or something?”
“Dante and I have not celebrated a birthday since before our parents died.”
“I’m sorry.”
“There is no need. We are all looking forward to Maddie’s birthday party next week.”
Kiki laughed. “I almost forgot. She wants a girl’s night. No men unless they have four legs and fur.”
“I assume Chad and Blam are the furry attendees.”
Kiki smirked. “I think Maddie is trying to convince Dante to let Molly attend.”
Valen’s smile fell. “The cow isn’t coming in the house.”
Chad descended the stairs with a mischievous smile.
Valen whispered to Kiki. “You are right. My bride is planning something. I guess the gentlemanly thing to do is wait to see what it is.”
Chad nodded. “Give her a few minutes then go up. I have a patient waiting at the clinic.” Chad hugged Valen in a rare show of affection. “These are exciting times, my prince.” He kissed Valen on both cheeks before leaving.
Kiki gave Valen a suspicious look. “What is going on? Chad wouldn’t be that excited about your birthday.”
Valen stared after the healer. “No idea, but Chad’s demon is happy. I think I will go find out.”
“I am so going up with you...”
Laura ran down the stairs. “Save him! You have to!”
Kiki stopped her from running further. “Who? What’s going on?”
“Chad. They abducted him.”
Chapter 13
Kiki watched Laura pace the room. Her boots clicked on the polished hardwood floor of the dining hall. Its opulent beauty diminished by the oppressive mood. “Honey, it will be okay.”
Laura wiped a tear from her eye. “I need Chad and Jenner back. I can’t do this alone.”
Kiki glanced at Valen, who shook his head in response. “You aren’t making sense sweetie. We will get them back.”
Laura put her hand to her forehead. “You don’t understand.”
Valen pulled his distraught wife into his arms, holding her as she cried into his chest. “I will not rest until I return Chad.”
Jess entered the room. “I texted Charisse. She spoke to Roman. He thinks they abducted the healer to care for the women.”
“Do they believe Chad can make them fertile again?” Valen asked.
Jess shook her head sadly. “They have several pregnant females. Hybrids. They are dying in childbirth along with the babies.”
Valen’s body flexed. Muscles rippled as Dante looked at him in concern.
“Calm yourself, brother,” Dante said.
Valen nodded. “I’m sorry.”
Zane entered the dining room, followed by his sister. “I let myself in.”
Jordane glanced at the PIA agent. “Kiki informed the warriors you were coming.”
Zane glanced around the room, before turning to Kiki. “I told Kat what happened, she has an idea how to help you.”
Kiki looked at Kat. It was obvious Zane’s sister was uncomfortable but she was trying to hide it. “We appreciate all the help we can get. What’s your idea?”
Kat took her tablet out of her satchel. “Zane explained the Ladon tech. I think they have scanners to avoid infiltration and dampeners to stop any form of telepathic signal getting out. If they are that careful about tech getting near them then we need to get a tracker inside their facility. A signal boosted from inside should be able to connect with one outside. I could modulate it to emit on a low frequency. We will track it before they discover it.”
Dante shook his head. “You’ll never get the tracker through their security. They scanned my body with a detection device. They were thorough.”
Kat nodded. “It will be undetectable for a short time.”
“How will you shield it? They will detect any mechanical device,” Kiki said.
Kat winked. “I have been working on a prototype for a dissolving tracker. I encase it in a bio-agent that keeps the tracker inert and undetectable until activated by stomach acid coming in contact with it.”
Kiki’s eyebrows went up. “Stomach acid? You ingest this tracker?”
“Yes. As the tracker will be inside the body and inert. The Ladon won’t be able to detect it unless they do a second sweep after it goes on-line.”
“Why not under the skin?”
Kat cleared her throat. “The Ladon are up on that technology. I’m sure they could detect a sub-dermal tracker. Even one of mine. Besides, I know the exact decomposition time for the tracker in a human stomach. I know when it will come on-line.”
Valen pointed at the tablet. “This technology requires a human?”
Kat shifted in her seat. “I studied human biometrics. I don’t have the faintes
t idea how your organs work. Since blood demons don’t eat food, I doubt your physiology is the same. I would have to know your metabolic and decomposition rates to make one for you.”
Valen rubbed his chin. “This is a question for Chad. He is the only one of us who has studied both human and demon physiology.”
“That’s why they want him. It isn’t just his healing ability. He is a trained medical doctor and the demon healer,” Kiki said.
Valen shook his head. “A human mole. We can’t ask a human man to do this.”
Kiki shook her head. “The Ladon kill the male psychics. This will only work with someone they’d take to their compound. It has to be a female hybrid.”
Valen hissed. “I would never allow a female in such a situation. Human or demon.”
“The Ladon aren’t interested in male hybrids.”
“We can’t ask a female to take this kind of risk. We can’t guarantee they won’t rape her the moment she walks in their door. She would not be safe.”
“I agree. As much as I want Chad back. The risk is too high,” Kiki said.
Kat rubbed her forehead. “I’m sorry. This is all I have right now.”
“No, you are trying and I appreciate it. I know this is hard for you,” Kiki said.
Valen nodded. “We are in your debt...”
Kat gave him a hard look. “I am here for Zane. These things. The Ladon. They killed someone I loved.”
“Your brother,” Valen said.
“Yes.”
“The Ladon have committed unspeakable crimes against demon and human alike. If it takes a thousand years, I promise to eradicate that infection.”
Laura stepped forward, diffusing the mounting tension. “Hi Kat. I know we only met a few times but Chad is my friend. I need him returned. Can we discuss your ideas while the men decide our next move?”
Kat smiled at Laura. “I’ll do anything for the girl who smuggled chocolate in for me while training.”
