by Thawer, Tish
Devin digested his unsure tone and hoped that he was just nervous about being a new Sire and not really planning to reject her. Deciding to give him some time, she quickly changed the subject.
"What are you doing? What are those?"
"I'm preparing to summon the Darkling who bestowed me with my powers."
He emptied the last bottle of white shards onto the counter and began moving them around, guiding them into specific places. After watching him position the tiny objects, Devin realized that she was staring at the shape of a skeletal hand.
"Stand in the corner until I call you forward, and Devin...don't defy me in front of him." His voice carried a dangerous edge to it that had her suddenly wanting to obey his every command.
Slinking to the corner, Devin watched as Gage placed his hand over the tiny bones, pressing down on them until Devin smelled the scent of blood. Suddenly, even though there were no lights on in the apartment, it seemed to get darker and an eerie shape began to coalesce in the middle of the room.
Devin watched as a robed figure began to take shape, then held her breath when it raised its head, piercing her with a pair of iridescent white eyes. It looked human...mostly. But it moved with a strange gait, lumbering like whatever was hidden within the folds of its cloak made it hard to walk.
"You summoned me?" The creepy voice sounded like razors on a chalkboard to Devin's ears.
"Yes. I've sired a vampire and need to know the consequences of the action, since the situation was...unique." Gage got straight to the point, which pleased Devin, because the idea of lingering in this being's presence any longer than necessary sent chills up her spine.
The Darkling hobbled towards Gage, then in an action that struck Devin as strange, he reached out with his hand and gently stroked the white shards lying on the counter.
"What is so unique about a vampire siring another?"
Gage shifted on his feet, which had Devin wondering if he was nervous about sharing the intimate details of her making, or if he too simply didn't feel comfortable in the Darkling's presence.
"I used one of the powers you bestowed upon me to summon her into the dreamscape, and while mating with her, I drank her dry. She woke back in the human realm, but within a day, completed the transition and arrived in Ovialell a full vampire."
With his back to her, the Darkling raised his cloaked head and Devin noticed Gage's stoic expression flinched slightly under the scrutiny of the creature's gaze.
"You are free to use your powers as you wish, but since my dark magick flows through you, all that you do is also bound by that connection. Your vampires will not gain your power, but the bond you share will be very unique."
What the fuck does that mean? Devin thought, as she watched Gage nod his head. Her keen eyesight then caught the bob of his Adam's apple as he swallowed hard. "What if I were to choose her as my mate?"
Devin sucked in a shocked breath then regretted the action when the Darkling turned, leveling her with his eerie gaze. "Any vampire you create will be...tainted." He cocked his head as if popping his neck in and out of place as he crept in her direction. "They will have a tendency to become more vicious than those created by regular vampires. If she can handle the increased darkness that will always be a part of her..." He stopped within arm's reach. "...then you've made a wise choice."
The Darkling's right hand suddenly shot out, grabbing her entire face in his grip. Devin's body was rendered immobile while her mind was flooded with images. Scenes of herself ripping throats open with her fangs, fighting with the speed and strength of a true supernatural being. But the image that had her core pulsing was one of she and Gage having sex while soaked in their enemies' blood.
Released from the Darkling's grip, Devin's eyes rolled back in her head as she stumbled backwards. She used the wall behind her to steady herself, quickly regaining her bearings.
His scratchy voice and demented smile sent chills over her skin as he said, "You've chosen well. She will be a great asset to our cause." Turning to Gage he continued. "Enjoy your new mate."
He then began to disintegrate, collapsing into an oily black ball of matter. The last thing Devin noticed before he completely disappeared was his left arm protruding from under his cloak, a left arm that ended in a handless nub.
* * * * *
A sense of relief settled over Gage now that the Darkling was gone. He prided himself on being the one vampire who'd been chosen to receive their dark magick, but he'd never be so foolish as to think they were on equal ground. When the creature had grabbed Devin by the face, his protective instinct flared to life, but as he tried to move to defend his progeny, he found himself frozen in place.
"Do you feel better about turning me now?" Devin's sensual voice pulled him out of his revere. As he looked across his room at her, he remembered the Darkling's last words. "Enjoy your new mate."
He took a deep breath and stalked towards her, refusing to use his enhanced speed at a time like this. He wanted to take his time and get to know her...body and mind.
As they met in the middle of the room, their frenzied kisses quickly turned into shredded clothes. The feel of her body under his hands was like a heaven he'd long forgotten.
"Gage, did you mean it when you said you wanted me as your mate?" He could sense the fear of disappointment that lingered under the surface of her voice.
With his hand around her throat he lifted his head from the silken flesh of her shoulder and looked straight into her eyes. "I never intended to become a Sire, but when we were together in the dreamscape you invaded my mind and I lost control. I regretted it at first, and you were right, I was pissed off that it happened at all. But then remembering the sexual thoughts that flooded your mind, and catching a glimpse of your dark side, I started thinking a life with you might not be so bad after all."
"Wow, you really know how to make a girl feel special." She bared her teeth, causing his cock to flinch.
"You wanted answers and those are mine. Take it for what it is. Be my mate and fight by my side, or not. Either way, you are still mine." He knew his tone was harsh, but he wasn't ready to admit that he thought about being with her after their initial "encounter." Damn, he wasn't even ready to admit it to himself since it had taken him completely by surprise at the time.
With a feral look in her eyes, Devin pried his hand from her throat, ripped off their remaining clothes, and threw him onto the mattress. She straddled him, her long red hair flowing over her shoulders and coming to rest on the tops of her perfectly shaped breasts, fulfilling Gage's idea of the perfect woman.
"I'll be your mate and fight by your side, but you're right...I did have a dark side before you turned me, and most of it had to do with my sexual appetite, so I hope you're ready to feed me."
She struck so fast he didn't have time to respond. Her fangs were buried in the thick flesh of his left pec as she impaled herself on his hard shaft.
Feeling the deep pulls of her mouth accompanied by her inner muscles milking his cock, he counted backwards in his head in an effort to stop himself from coming immediately. But the idea that it was his blood flowing down her throat had the pressure in his cock building to an uncontrollable level. Suddenly the idea of a war mongering, sex hungry, evil woman as his mate had him crying out as he filled her.
She lifted her head from his chest, her blood drenched fangs and bedroom eyes making the most erotic picture, especially as his blood dripped from her mouth onto her breasts.
He raised his head and placed his tongue just under her nipple, catching the drop in his mouth. With a growl, Devin grabbed the back of his head, holding his hair in a tight grip as she began to writhe on him again. But just as Gage grabbed her hips, preparing to flip her over, she flew across the room and stood naked in his kitchen. Gage watched her climb onto the stone island, taking care to push the Darkling's bones and broken glass out of the way. Once she was positioned on her back with her knees apart, she leaned up on her elbows and commanded, "Come here."
He'd lost the control to move slowly, and sped to bury his face between her legs. Her moans were like tiny victories and he continued to lick and suck her wet center until he couldn't stop himself from extending his fangs and sinking them into the skin on either side of her clit. Her scream spurred him on. With his fangs firmly in place, he worked his tongue and jaw until he could taste the sweetness of her juices mixed with her blood. The combination was so intense, his cock thickened as it filled with come once more. Devin came, then in a movement too fast to stop she sat up, removed his head from between her legs, and grabbed his shaft in a firm grip. Gage almost crushed the counter beneath his hands as her rapid strokes caused him to explode within seconds.
Heavy panting filled the room as he stood there, staring at Devin. The look in her eyes as she watched him fist his cock, milking the last creamy drops from the end, made it clear that this night was far from over. Devin flew off the island and began rummaging through the kitchen drawers. A mix of depraved curiosity and a shred of fear shot through him as he watched her pull out a thin metal ring and a lighter.
"Now it's time to have some fun."
* * * * *
CHAPTER FORTY
Damarius watched as Aryiah summoned her fifth energy ball out of thin air. Her training was going unbelievably well, and the things she'd accomplished were far superior to any other Witch he'd ever trained.
"In your apartment you had to recite a spell to summon an energy ball. What's changed that you don't need to do so now?" His question was meant for them both. He truly did want to know the answer, but by asking for her response, he hoped she'd gain an understanding to the power she now wielded.
"I'm not sure I can explain it. I feel like Aradia's magick is located in a pool deep inside of me, and whenever I want to create something or do something, I simply think about it and then dip into that pool of magick...then it just happens."
Aryiah's response made sense. Before they began her training, which started with intense meditation sessions, her magick could have easily overflowed from its "pool" and flooded her entire being, which could explain what happened in the dungeon.
"Actually, I think you explained it perfectly." Damarius smiled proudly as he approached his beautiful mate. "I believe your training is almost complete. I just have one final test."
"What's that?" she asked with a cocky tilt to her head.
"I want you to transform into your wolf."
The color drained from Aryiah's face and her eyes grew to twice their normal size. "You want me to purposely turn into a wolf?"
"Yes. You did it before when your body and magick were in a state of heightened sensitivity, so we both know it's possible. But what we need is for you to be able to call upon it at will."
Damarius stood firm with his arms crossed over his broad chest while he waited for Aryiah's response. He could sense her emotions spiking, teetering between fear and doubt, and excitement and confidence.
With a firm set to her jaw, Aryiah took three steps back and closed her eyes. Damarius watched as a green shimmer of magick ran over her skin, then stood awe-struck once more as he stared at her, now a gorgeous silver wolf with piercing blue eyes.
Aryiah gently padded forward and rubbed her head against his leg. He ran his hand through her fur, digging in with his fingers to feel her soft undercoat.
"I knew you could do it. Now, would you like to go for a run?"
She pranced in place, her excitement the positive response he was hoping for. He quickly joined her in wolf form, and the next thing he heard was Aryiah's voice inside his head.
This is amazing! Everything is just so...heightened.
It only took a moment for Damarius to realize they could still use their mated bond to share thoughts, but only while they both held the same form, or unless they were on a shamanic journey. Just wait until we get outside.
Damarius led Aryiah out the open side door of the training room. He watched as she took in her surroundings and was thrilled at the jubilant emotions he could feel radiating from her.
He could have sworn she flashed him a wolfish smile right before racing into the surrounding forest. He flexed his powerful legs and sprinted after her.
They spent hours running through the trees, playing and hunting until they reached the northern shore of Dalestri.
Aryiah lay down on the white sandy beach, and Damarius joined her after a quick security scan of the surrounding area.
What's that island out there? she asked him.
Themiscyra is home of the Amazons. Their leader, Kylie, has always been a friend and ally to the Goddess.
Amazons. As in large beautiful warrior women? The hint of jealousy layering the thought had Damarius stifling a laugh.
Yes. Their increased size and magickally enhanced skills make them the perfect warriors. But as for beautiful...no one compares to you.
Aryiah's wolfish grin returned right before the magick shimmered over her silver fur, transforming her back into her beautiful self. Damarius followed her lead and within seconds they were lying on the beach in each other's arms.
"Well, I'll be the judge of that when you take me to their island and introduce me." Sinking her toes into the pure white sand, Aryiah looked up at the lavender tinted sky. Even though the sun was shining bright gold, there always seemed to be a silver haze that hung in the air. "This world never ceases to amaze me," Aryiah said. "What causes the sky to look like that?"
"Do you mean the silver glow?"
"Yes. It seems to surround everything."
"It's because Upper World is home to the Goddess. Her magick comes from the spirit realm, which gives off a silver hue. This world is coated in her magick."
Aryiah sighed and relaxed into her mates embrace. "Everything is just so beautiful here."
Damarius felt his chest tighten and thought about holding back his next words, but as he recalled his confrontation with Gage and Devin, he knew they needed to be said. "Yes, but you can never let your guard down, Aryiah. Aradia's return is proof enough that dangerous times lie ahead."
Aryiah's smile collapsed as she rolled onto her back, displacing the sand. "I know."
* * * * *
Damarius' words tugged her emotions tighter than a stretched violin sting. One pluck and she was bound to snap. She knew her plans to visit the Amazons, or simply enjoying the company of her sexy mate on the shores of Dalestri, were all things that were going to have to wait. She needed to focus on controlling and developing her magick so when she took her place with The Witches, she wouldn't let them, her mother, or the citizens of Ovialell down. The Goddess had explained that until Aryiah completed her rites, which would complete their coven, their collective strength would remain diminished.
Aryiah closed her eyes, picturing Devin's fanged smile peering at her from over Gage's shoulder. She could now level the emotions the image caused, but unfortunately still couldn't soften the pain the blow inflicted to her heart. Devin was lost and Aryiah could only imagine the plans Gage had for the two of them. She was sure The Witches would need to be at their full strength for whatever was coming next.
Suddenly overwhelmed with the urge to complete her rites, Aryiah jumped up from the sand, holding her hand out to Damarius. Once he placed his hand in hers, she yanked him into the Shadowlands, shading them both into the Goddess' upper throne room.
The loving smile and tilt of his head relayed he understood what she was thinking. She squeezed his hand and called out, "Mother, are you here?"
Diana's appearance was instantaneous. "Hearing your call lifts my heart. What can I do for you, Daughter?"
"I want to complete my rites as soon as possible. I have my magick under control and the urgent feeling I have is something I can't ignore."
With a knowing smile on her face, the Goddess responded. "I've been thinking the same thing. Winter Solstice i
sn't for another two months, but Samhain is only three days away." As Diana approached them both, Aryiah stared at the faint silver glow surrounding the Goddess. "The Witches' New Year is the perfect time for you to take your rightful place. I'll start the preparations immediately."
* * * * *
CHAPTER FORTY-ONE
After "getting to know each other," Gage took Devin through the streets of Obsidian, showing her his favorite haunts and explaining how everything worked in their world. After being approached by an old flame, the exchange of some heated words and a few splatters of blood, Devin quickly established that he was hers. Gage watched the confrontation with a smirk on his face and couldn't be happier that he'd chosen this fierce woman as his mate.
As they walked out of the bar, Devin looked around and continued as if nothing had happened. "Obsidian is beautiful, and the fact that it's always dark, except for the blood moons' glow is really something."
"Yes. The Goddess is gracious in acknowledging the needs of all citizens of Ovialell."
Devin stopped, dropping her gaze from the red-tinted sky. "Then why are you siding with the Darkling to fight against her?"
The question struck him as odd considering that her blood lust was even more intense than his own. "Just because the Goddess accepts us as citizens of Ovialell doesn't mean that she accepts our ways or looks upon us as anything more than lower level beings. We share Lower World with the demons of Hel, the worst creatures of us all. So when the Darkling approached me, promising a rise in class for vampires and demons alike if we fought with him, I jumped at the opportunity. If you haven't noticed, no one in the vampire community is special...except me."
