Blood Oath (#8, the Mystic Wolves)

by Belinda Boring

  Klothos.

  “Maybe I can help alleviate your concerns.”

  Lady Hannah gasped, her hand immediately going to her lips in surprise. “Who are you and how did you get in here?” she exclaimed.

  “Search your heart with your gift. You know who I am.”

  With eyes as wide as saucers, Lady Hannah dropped to her knees in reverence. “You do me a great honor.” Then with an incredulous tone, she addressed me. There was no disguising the fear that also blazed like fiery beacons in her eyes. “You’ve brought one of the Fates to my home.”

  “This is Klothos,” I introduced and stood, reaching to help her to her feet. “She’s been my . . .” I searched for the right words to describe my relationship with the unusual young deity.

  “I watch over him and offer support during this trial,” Klothos added, finishing my sentence. “Unlike my sisters, I take no pleasure in seeing him suffer needlessly.”

  Lady Hannah’s jaw dropped, her mouth agape like a fish out of water. Each attempt to catch her breath left her more out of sorts. For all the bravado and confidence she exuded, it had evaporated the instant she realized who was before her.

  In her line of work, sharing her gift with those seeking her advice, Lady Hannah had encountered quite a few different types of characters. Judging from her reactions, however, something told me she’d never met someone who held such formidable power as Klothos. It almost made the older woman shrink into herself.

  Almost.

  “How may I be of service?”

  Klothos smiled down on her before gesturing for her to take a seat again. I’d grown accustomed to the young Fate’s appearances; I wasn’t as dazzled as my friend.

  “You have already begun fulfilling your part in Devlin’s journey by inviting him into your home and placing him in the London Alpha’s path.”

  There was such a gentle expression on Klothos’s face that it was sometimes easy to forget she was part of a terrifying triad. Her sisters were the epitome of disdain and ruthlessness—each encounter chilled me to my core. Somehow, the younger sister escaped being ingrained with the same calculating traits, managing to maintain a semblance of compassion. It would be a sad day for humanity, should Klothos ever lose the tenderness in her heart that made her who she was. In fact, I was shocked Atropos and Lakhesis hadn’t stripped the endearing quality from her.

  A thought whispered in my mind that it hadn’t been from a lack of trying.

  “Sullivan Kilgrave,” Lady Hannah dutifully responded. “He’ll be attending the upcoming ball and I plan on introducing Devlin to him during the course of the night.”

  That familiar pulse of excitement shot through me at the mention of my long time friend. How I’d missed him and the conversations we’d exchanged in his home—he openly shared his life with me and trusted me as though I was a member of his Pack.

  Klothos nodded, light from the flames burning in the fireplace dancing in her eyes and giving her such an ethereal look her flawless skin glowed. “I thank you for the aid you’ve given Devlin. His is not an easy road and there is much that must happen before he can return to his own time.”

  It was always a remarkable thing to witness the moment when someone digs deep for courage—seeming to grow taller before your eyes with confidence.

  “I would gladly do more if . . .” That newfound sense of bravery waned a little as Lady Hannah’s voice trembled slightly. Then in the blink of an eye, it was gone. “. . . I understood more of why he’s here. I’ve tried using my gifts it but all I see are brief flashes in a heavy darkness.”

  My attention turned to Klothos, hoping against hope that she’d give me permission to at least answer some of my hostess’ questions. She didn’t need to know everything about my life story, but a little would go a long way in appeasing her while providing me another ally.

  “He must do this alone . . . those are the conditions he agreed to.” There was a touch of sadness to her voice as she held my gaze.

  “But surely—” Lady Hannah started, ready to argue her case. In her own right as a seer, she believed she could be an asset, and she recognized the sympathy Klothos showed me.

  The young Fate’s reply made it final. “Alone. He has already lived through this period of his life. You’ve honored the role you played and for that, I thank you, again.”

  “Then why did you reveal yourself to her?” I asked, stumped by Klothos’s inserting herself into a situation I could have easily managed on my own. As an Enforcer, I’d learned how to remain tight-lipped and disclose only what was vital in a given situation. I could’ve resisted Lady Hannah’s gentle bullying as she tried to wheedle the truth out of me. Although I had wanted to tell her, to tell anyone, I also knew what was at stake. There was no way in hell I wanted a possible future where Darcy was criminally insane to become a reality. The vision was permanently seared into my mind.

  For once, Klothos appeared uncertain. “I don’t know. Perhaps it was because I feel sorry for you, Devlin. I understand the pain that comes from being alone and having no one to confide in. Perhaps I don’t agree with the severity of the conditions we set.” She shrugged, a very human-like gesture, making it easy to forget she held the destinies of everyone who ever lived in her hands.

  It was Lady Hannah’s turn to frown in confusion. “You don’t . . . agree?” Her brows furrowed deeper. The Fates were known for maintaining a united front when reigning over mankind. They each had a job that complemented the others. It was a foreign concept to hear there was perhaps dissension amongst them.

  “I love my sisters and honor my role with them. I’ve held my position as a Fate for what feels like eons . . . longer than you can possibly fathom. But, no, I don’t always agree.”

  “Can you not speak up on his behalf, then? I might not know exactly what is happening, but surely if you feel that way . . .”

  Again, Lady Hannah was interrupted—this time by me. “I appreciate the sentiment. This, however, is something I asked of them. It is within their right to demand whatever they want. Because of the enormity of the favor, I gladly accepted. I would do anything within my power to save those I love.”

  Understanding blossomed across her features. “Love. What we all wouldn’t do to hold it in our hands . . . even for the smallest of moments.” Addressing me, Lady Hannah offered a soft smile. “So you do this for love? For your Verity?”

  It was an easy mistake to assume considering her limited knowledge.

  “No, I do this for my niece and for the family she’s claimed . . . that I will claim in my future.” I glanced at Klothos, hoping she’d concede to me sharing the tiniest of morsels. When she nodded, I couldn’t speak fast enough. “There is a man who bewitched my sister, using her to increase his own dark powers. His thirst and lust for it was unlike anything I’d ever seen. There was a child and—” a sob burst up through my throat and I choked. “My sweet sister died during childbirth, but not before I pledged to her a blood oath, promising to do everything I could to protect our family.” I knew I was skating over the events, leaving a lot of details unspoken, but even this felt like a relief to utter. “I found a way to do so, extending my life until that evilness returned in the future. Not only did he destroy my sister, altering my own life—he left destruction in his wake for my niece. Unable to live knowing I was the reason she suffered, I begged the Fates to restore those we lost. They agreed, but only if I agreed to return to my past and relive my darkest moments.” It wasn’t much, but it felt like everything. My heart pounded in my chest as I fell silent, the weight of my story hovering in the air above us.

  Tears glistened in Lady Hannah’s eyes. “I am so sorry, my friend. I didn’t know.” Her own voice caught as emotions bubbled to the surface. “And this man?”

  “Julian Blackwell, an evil warlock who would stop at nothing to control and dominate those around him.” I all but spat out his name in disgust and rage. Even though I’d killed him, part of me wished I could somehow resurrect him for the sole
purpose of ripping him to shreds again.

  “Does he still pose a threat?” I expected Lady Hannah to fear for her life, wondering if having me in her home would bring Julian to her doorstep. It wasn’t fear that shone in her eyes, however. Wrath stirred within her—enraged that someone would dare attack the innocent.

  “Julian is no more,” Klothos answered, and I appreciated the finality in her tone. While he was still out there somewhere in this time, he wouldn’t be a problem here.

  “I don’t profess to fully grasp everything, and you know I have a lot of questions.” I joined in as she chuckled. I had no doubt her questions could fill the deepest ocean and then some. In just the short time I’d been here, Lady Hannah displayed an inquisitive mind. “So I am grateful for what you have been able to share. I’m sorry that I pushed . . . not knowing.”

  “Will you still help?” I asked. In the past, she’d helped blindly, but now . . . she could choose to refuse. Things changed, allowing her some foresight.

  She emphatically nodded. “How could I not, sweet boy? What more can I do?” She brushed away an errant tear that fell down her cheek. “Tell me more about this blood oath . . . maybe I can help with that?”

  Both Klothos and I moved to speak at the same time. As a gentleman, I let her go first. “You’ve been granted a small glimpse, seer. I’m afraid that is all. The rest is up to Devlin and those he will meet. His course is set.”

  She opened her mouth to argue and was rewarded with the sternest expression I’d ever seen Klothos wear. It was a reminder Klothos only appeared to be sweet compassionate but was, in fact, a Fate whose authority was absolute. Whatever consideration she extended should never be confused as free access. Thankfully, Lady Hannah recognized the subtle warning.

  Bowing her head in reverence, she quickly sank to her knees again. “Then I offer my services should you, your sisters, or Devlin need them.”

  Granting only the slightest of nods to the seer, Klothos looked at me once more. “It is almost time for you to move on, Devlin. Take courage.”

  Then, before I could speak—or at least thank her for appearing—Klothos disappeared in a burst of sparkling light.

  The room seemed to exhale one long, loud sigh of relief. Lady Hannah was still shaking when I helped her stand.

  “Well,” she murmured, at a loss for words.

  “Well,” I answered.

  Cradling my cheek with her hand, Lady Hannah peered deep into my eyes, forging a silent bond between us. “I meant that, Devlin. Whatever you need . . . I am at your service. I would consider it an honor to help.”

  I leaned in and tenderly kissed her cheek, noticing the slight flush of color that crossed her skin. “Thank you.”

  I finally had an ally—someone who knew what I was doing.

  I was no longer alone.

  I was ready to move on to the next part of my painful journey.

  CHAPTER NINETEEN

  The grandeur of the large estate dazzled me, even after all this time. As a wide-eyed young man, I’d taken a few moments to simply stand and take it all in—the large home’s architecture a tribute to all that was magnificent in England. Lighted lanterns adorned the front, casting a glow against the carved stone walls. Each window was lit from within, signifying that the ball was already underway, and the music beckoned the new arrivals to a night of dancing and finery.

  Ms. Valeria had absolutely outdone herself with both mine, and Lady Hannah’s attire. My hostess all but floated out of the carriage in her light blue dress, the color complimenting the deeper hue of her eyes. She’d teased on the journey to the large estate just outside London that my flattery was enough to make her blush for the rest of the night.

  It was the truth, no matter how hard she tried to deflect it. She was the very picture of grace and elegance, and I was proud to escort her to the festivities.

  In return, she’d gushed over the color choices for my own wardrobe. Dressed in a deep green topcoat, she murmured something about needing a stick to keep away all my admirers, all while fanning herself.

  I wasn’t here to impress, though. There was only one person I was interested in meeting and establishing a relationship with and it didn’t include a long line of swooning women.

  Sullivan Kilgrave, Alpha of one of the largest werewolf packs in England, was attending and as we entered the heavily adorned foyer, I couldn’t help but crane my neck to see if I could catch a glimpse of my friend.

  “It never ceases to amaze me each time I come here,” Lady Hannah discretely whispered, smiling softly at the butler waiting to take our coats.

  The ball was being held at Fairhaven Estates, ancestral home to the Duke and Duchess of Fairhaven. While such extravagance would become the norm for me in the years to follow, it still didn’t stop me from glancing about with my eyes wide and mouth slightly agape.

  Marbled floors in greens, greys, and creams were just the tip of the iceberg when it came to the richness of this place. Like the first time, my attention was instantly drawn to the sweeping staircase leading people up to the first floor. Atop the pillars on each side of the first step sat glittering candelabras, their decorative jewels sparkling under the candles’ flickering flames. Paintings hung in rows on the walls revealing family portraits and classical artwork favored by the homeowners.

  Everything was opulent, and it was only the foyer. Slowly walking through to the main ballroom, stopping only to wait as Lady Hannah greeted acquaintances, I yearned for my own creature comforts. My tastes weren’t anywhere near this level, but I also surrounded myself with things that reminded me of where I’d come from and what I felt was important.

  Verity would’ve loved to have seen this, I mentally mused. Quick introductions interrupted my thoughts—so many names I probably wouldn’t remember the next morning.

  Again, each person I met bowed and curtsied while we exchanged pleasantries, but they melted away once we moved on. There was still no sign of Sullivan but the night was young. I knew we would not leave until the introduction was made.

  “Lady Hannah, what a pleasure it is for you to join us tonight,” a regal sounding voice drew us to a halt. It belonged to the Duchess of Fairhaven—the young looking woman barely in her twenties. “And you’ve brought along a guest. How wonderful!”

  My skin prickled as the attention swung to me, completely under scrutiny. Only a few seconds passed, but I had no doubt the Duchess had measured my worth with one sweeping perusal. Based on the fact she wore a wide smile and not a frown, I’d passed her silent test.

  Lady Hannah showed her respect before laying her hand gently on my arm. “May I present my good friend, Mr. Devlin Lockhart. He’s been staying with me while on business here in London.”

  There was that assessing look again. “Welcome to my home, Mr. Lockhart. I trust you’ve been enjoying your stay?” Her gaze was steady but I caught the flicker of desire she quickly buried.

  “I have, thank you.” I nodded my head. “You have a beautiful home. I haven’t seen anything quite like it.” It was the truth. I wouldn’t see and know this kind of lavishness until I finally met with Balthazar again. Now there was a man—creature—that enjoyed only the best life had to offer.

  She had the decency to flush over my words. “By all means, walk around and enjoy your evening. I might come find you later . . . dance a quadrille.” The duchess gingerly touched my arm before removing it. Her gaze become guarded as another joined us . . . the duke.

  “Lady Hannah!” he boomed, and for the smallest of moments, I pictured his hair white with a thick beard. His rosy cheeks teased that he would make a fine Santa Claus, but I knew better. He’d already been enjoying the drinks being served. “Good to see you here tonight. Please make yourself at home!”

  He stared over at me, inclining his head ever so slightly. “Excuse me. I’ve come to reclaim my wife. We have other guests to greet.” The duchess cast one last lingering glance over her shoulder before being whisked away.

  “I would st
ay away from that one, Devlin,” Lady Hannah laughed, whipping her fan open. “Don’t find yourself alone with her, whatever you do. Scandals and ruination follow her around like bees to flowers.”

  My gaze followed after them and my brow crinkled in confusion. “Then how did she become the duchess?” I remembered the rules higher society governed themselves with. If there were even a hint or murmur about a woman’s lack of virtue, she would be shunned. It was why being discrete was drilled into each child from birth. The preservation of the family name was of the utmost importance—besmirching its integrity was frowned upon and vehemently opposed.

  Lady Hannah touched the tip of the fan to her nose and winked. “A certain duke came to visit me and my gifts revealed their marriage.”

  That couldn’t be it. There had to be more to that story. My friend’s smile grew wider. “And, of course, her huge dowry and inheritance played a pivotal role in the decision.”

  Indeed, that made more sense. Money was a great incentive when it came to turning a blind eye to differing personalities and indiscretions.

  “Interesting,” I uttered, fascinated by all the gossip Lady Hannah whispered into my ear as she spotted more and more people she knew. Everyone had a story. Everyone had some kind of hidden skeleton they believed remained undiscovered in their closets but everyone knew about. It didn’t really matter what time you came from—human nature and intrigue went hand in hand.

  The wonderful melodies from the string orchestra hired for tonight’s dancing and festivities floated around us. Hushed chatter from the many groups formed throughout the ballroom and neighboring space served as an underlying beat to the music. At regular intervals, footmen stood ready to offer assistance should anyone need it. Some carried trays of drinks and food about—tempting guests with their delights.

  And still, I looked for Sullivan.

  “He will be here,” my companion said, her own gaze flittering around. She was a little more covert—using her fan to study the room as it covered the bottom half of her face. “It’s a certainty, so relax. Enjoy yourself. Tonight you are in one of the grandest homes in London save the Royal Court itself. Eat, drink, and be merry. Find a lovely young girl to dance with.” When I threw her a skeptical look, she chuckled again. “That isn’t code to find yourself a wife, Devlin. I know your heart belongs to your Verity. But that doesn’t mean you can’t send many a young heart fluttering tonight.”