

A Kiss of Ashen Twilight

Copyright © 2009, 2015 Rae Lori

A RavenFire Books Production

For information on the cover illustration and design, contact **Rachel@Raelori.com**

Cover art by RavenFire Media

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written permission from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages for review purposes.

This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to any person, living or dead, any place, events or occurrences, is purely coincidental. The characters and story lines are created from the author's imagination or are used fictitiously.

For centuries, a group of immortals consisting of Nightwalkers, Lycans, and Shifter Elves have lived under mortal eyes. Banning together for safety and survival, they created the group of houses lead by a select group of Patriarchs and Regents.

Outside of the mortal realm, the Aziza fairies dwell in peace. A benevolent race of immortals whose main job is to assist human hunters on their quests. Much of what they know of humans are from their studies and what they know of other immortals are from books about fairy tales and mythology.

The world of the mortal realm and the faerie realm are about to collide.

## From the Night, the Prince Rises

Highlands, Scotland 1465

Liam Blakedon stared at the loch, watching the thick leather bound journal disappear under the rippling black water. Years had passed since he started the first entry. The book was a history of his life and the time he spent under service of his laird, Archane. He wrote about the many hours of training techniques he used on the battlefield and the camaraderie he shared with his fellow officers. Good memories and possibly the best times in his life, but they went by with the blink of an eye.

Now he was ready to let the past sink into the river where it belonged.

Blakedon brushed a dark strand of hair away from his face. The biting cold air sent a shiver down his spine. The heavy armor he wore over his tunic did little to keep him warm. He rested his arm on the sword sheathed at his side, hearing the soft neigh of the horse behind him.

Memories of the past still haunted him like a whisper in the passing wind. He still remembered the way his wife looked in the last days leading up to the birth of their son.

Beautiful Lady Marie Germaine.

Her dark gray somber eyes watched the lake outside the castle as if she saw another world beneath the water. In the days she became his, Marie barely shared intimate conversation more than a greeting or the mask of a smile with him. She had still been carrying Archane's child, often retreating to the lake to stare wistfully into its watery bed. The way she cradled her arm around her swollen stomach as she gazed there made him uneasy, but he knew she wouldn't do anything to harm herself while she was with child.

The boy's day of birth still haunted him. Marie's blood curdling screams echoed across the castle walls and outside the large wooden doors.

Blakedon waited outside controlling the urge to run in and take her in his arms. If he could will away the pain, he would bear it for her.

Then everything changed when she screamed that name.

Julian Archane.

That name.

Blakedon balled up his fists. Even after Julian Archane's disappearance she still called for him in her most dire hour. True, he was her first husband and their son's true father, but none of that mattered anymore. She should have let him go the moment he abandoned them.

Blakedon still hated him. He hated the pained expression Marie carried and the tears that fell from her eyes as he held her in his arms.

He had been there since Julian became laird. As First Guard, it was his duty to train the soldiers and lead them to battle if the English threatened to invade.

He was even there for her arrival in the days leading to her wedding Julian to Archane.

Ever since she arrived from France and he saw her on the hand of her father, Baron Henri Germaine, Blakedon loved her. He loved the way the soft velvet gowns draped over her body, affirming her regal beauty. Her long dark hair pulled into intricate braids, framing the crown of her head as it flowed in waves down her back. He desired her even then, but she wasn't his to have. She was noble and in Julian's station.

He trusted his laird to care for her.

But he failed.

As much as his heart belonged to her and as much as he gave her, she never looked at him like she did Julian Archane. Even when he took her as a wife after Julian's disappearance, her warm eyes never sparkled with passion nor did her touch feel as warm. Her heart still belonged to _him_.

After everything he had done to pick up the pieces of what Julian Archane had left behind, Blakedon had received but a piece of her heart. More than anything, he deserved it all.

A scream had erupted throughout the room. Blakedon rushed in as the life drained from her eyes.

'Julian,' she had said as he entered. 'I wish you could have seen our son.'

Even as she died in the childbirth, she still uttered that vile name.

Blakedon had scooped her up into his arms and held her close to him. Her heartbeat slowed to a quiet rhythm before it died to silence.

Then she was gone.

Behind him, Marie's chambermaids whispering among themselves.

'She died of a broken heart she did,' they had said. 'The poor dear.'

Blakedon dared them to say those words to his face. He had ordered them out, pushing each one out the door before slamming it in their faces. Then he held her again, holding her as he fought his own tears that welled up inside of him.

He regretted not taking her for himself the moment he saw her. She would still be alive today, and they would be together until their last dying breath. For even as she lay dying, she still thought of the selfish husband that had left her.

But it was in the past now.

A forgotten page in the history book of time.

Horse hooves padded on the soft damp grass, bringing him back to the present. The horse exhaled, and a thump followed by the crunch of boots on the ground alerted him that one of his men was approaching.

"We are ready, _mo fathair._ "

Blakedon turned and met the gaze of his son, Avery. He was young, about mid-twenties with dark, wavy hair and bright blue eyes. He looked so much like Marie. And, as much as he hated to admit it, his true father. A man he would never know. Blakedon would make sure of it.

The boy leaned on his sword with one arm and looked ahead. "I shall miss this river," he murmured. "We had many good memories. Many nights I looked o'er the water and dreamed of mother. How proud she must be."

"An' she shall be proud of ye, my boy," he said, patting his son's shoulder. "I promise that. She watches over us now from above. I can feel her."

His son looked at the ground, shuffling his feet as he thought his words over before speaking. "What will become of me? The man hasn't returned since... since what happened at the inn."

"I know." Liam Blakedon thought about the stranger they met nights before. The man—no, _the thing_ —that changed his boy into a creature more than human. Alexandru Drago, he thought someone had called him, but he couldn't be sure.

The stranger gave him more strength and a promise of a longer life for helping him to combat a larger threat. Immortals he had called them. Soon a prince would rise, and he'd use these immortals to give them a life without death. He saw the effects of the change on his son. The boy seemed to die one night before waking the next eve thirsting for blood. There was no heartbeat, and his skin was cold as ice.

Yet he lived as the stranger said.

And he would remain with that thirst for blood as the moon rises and falls each night. Avery told him he felt alive whenever he fed. Alive and human once again.

Perhaps this was for the best. Blakedon needed to become immortal to bring down his former laird. Julian Archane was out there somewhere. His presence like a black cloud over the lands.

_One day soon_ ... _death will finally claim ye, Archane. By my hands._

Blakedon turned away from the river and led his son back to the group of guards waiting for their horses. They had until morning before leaving Inverness and their past behind. Soon his son would need to sleep when the sun rose again.

In the light of the sunlit day, Avery's body was stone cold dead with no movement or sign of life until nightfall. The stranger had warned them. As long as the boy kept to the shadows, he would be well.

Blakedon climbed onto his horse and clicked his heels against the saddle. He settled in for the long journey ahead as he led the men back onto the lush green road. His mind raced, plotting how he would bring about his dark laird's demise. He would revel in seeing Julian and all his men fall to their knees.

For in the hall of Avery's legacy, there will only be one left standing. As he looked at the boy riding tall beside him, Liam Blakedon was sure of it. The fates were sealed, and a new prince shall rise...

I

Light and Shadow

# Chapter 1

Ariya awoke with a sharp gasp on her lips. She was safe in her bed, but the images of the dream still echoed in her mind. The same dream happened every night, and tonight it continued without fail.

Blood covered the lands, darkening the bright green blades to angry shades of red. Swords clashed upon swords filling the air with the sharp cling of metal. Ear piercing screams of battle followed thereafter. The sky blackened to near empty darkness and on the grounds below, severed heads were impaled upon stakes erected from the ground. Soldiers wearing folded muted plaids draped around their armor knelt to drink blood from the fallen while others raised their weapons in victory.

This wasn't just a dream. It felt more like a memory. A moment from a time long passed. Where and when she wasn't sure.

One man always stood out among the carnage, untouched and unscathed. His handsome, chiseled features accented by the flow of his long, wavy dark hair. Body carved to perfection. Taut, angular curves revealed the hard lines of muscle beneath the skin.

The third dream in a row these past two nights.

Calm yourself, Ariya. You're home now. You're safe.

Staring ahead, she focused on the architecture that made up her home. The smooth, white marble glistened milky white under the watchful rays of the moonlight. Crystal windows offset the dark antique Aziza statues of Mawu-Lisa and her Aziza Fae kin. The familiar regal royal purple satin draping and light blue curtains weren't a comfort to her unsettled mind.

Months had passed since her sisters' death, and still, she felt their absence.

Shya. Rhea.

Ariya wished for their calm words and light banter. Especially now.

For months, the land had been whispering of another attack. Ariya felt something looming on the horizon. Whenever she found her parents speaking in hushed tones, they stopped the moment she entered the room.

What were they not telling her?

With a sigh on her lips, Ariya swung her legs over the bed and set her feet on the ground. Quiet stillness settled in the atmosphere. Heat emanated from outside, creeping through the walls. Something wasn't right.

_Creak_.

Ariya turned toward her door. Was somebody there? Her heart pounded loudly, echoing in her ears.

Gently, she slipped her feet into the soft, warm slippers next to her bed and slowly started toward the door. It could be one of the Aziza guards making a nightly walk. Or even Cidra. Ariya exhaled softly and opened her senses. The velvety sensation was a comfort against her skin. She welcomed the sweet distraction. Fragments of the nightmare pierced her thoughts like the prickle of a needle breaking through skin.

She opened the door.

Shadows covered the darkened hall, but no one was around.

A black shadow danced on the wall, mirroring the tree outside the window. Its branches and leaves cracked against the glass in reaction to the brush of the wild wind.

Why did this feel like a dream? Her mind grew hazy, and she could almost see herself walking through the dark hall with the silky white nightdress glowing brightly against her bronze skin. The glimmer of the moonlight surrounded her in a soft blue haze.

No.

She shook her head. This was not a dream. She had to focus!

The palace spread out around her like a glistening white marble structure complete with matching triptychs depicting her family. Wide arched door frames and dome-shaped ceilings added a touch of elegance. From what she read in her texts, the architecture surpassed that of the great monuments in the mortal world. Stone walls lined the interior hallways with dark crimson velvet curtains to soften the harsh bright colors. Family portraits filled the walls alongside the gold-trimmed staircase. Silence fell upon the hall with only the sharp crack of branches outside the windows to break it.

Too silent for this time of night.

Ariya turned toward the hall terrace where the doors sat wide open. A slow brush of wind swayed the curtains every which way. She didn't remember those doors being opened.

A chill ran through her.

It was here.

Nanà. Daa.

She had to find them before it was too late!

No, Ariya!

Her mother's voice rang clear within her mind.

It's too late for us! Go now!

A loud screech echoed from below the stairs accompanied by the slam of a door. Ariya turned and ran to her room. She closed the door just as a streak of pain nearly crippled her. Something constricted her heart, stifling her breathing. She fell to her knees hearing the echo of her father's cry throughout the palace. A horde of footsteps padded across the sleek floor as guards yelled commands into the night.

She had to do something!

No, Ariya! Listen to me. Just escape! It's too late.

What about daa? Where is he?

Gone. He is gone, Ariya.

Memories of when she was a child sneaking quiet moments in the study raced back to her. Many nights her father would find her curled up in a chair with an open book in her lap. He would pick her up and tuck her in with a kiss on her forehead. He couldn't be gone. _He couldn't._

Thick, icy darkness penetrated the air. Ariya inhaled softly and then exhaled, hoping and praying she didn't choke before reaching the window. She bolted forward and dove over the terrace rails as her wings came to life, softening her landing.

_Don't stop, Ariya! Run! Go to the mortal realm immediately_!

Her parents warned her about crossing into the mortal realm, but she couldn't wait. The creature had come back for her, and despite her wish to save her parents, no Aziza would live if she were to fall. Her mother gave strict orders to escape if it ever returned. Ariya gave her word, and as an Aziza Fae, she was honored to keep it.

" _Go, Ariya! Just go_!"

With all the energy she could muster she ran, embracing the comfort of the still night. Seconds later, she heard a loud blast and looked over her shoulder. The bright crystal and marble magnificence of the palace exploded with crumbled rock and glass amid tall, blazing ethereal flames.

The rush of adrenaline pushed her on, forcing her toward the edge of the forest. More screams drew her attention back to the destruction. A rippling form flowed around the flaming palace like a bird in flight. In its grasp, she saw her parent's dark forms slowly disappear into the entity. Words escaped her as she finally laid eyes on the creature.

It was like the wind itself. No form, just a slight ripple of movement in the air. It wasn't like anything she had seen before. But she felt it. Male, ancient and powerful. Why was it so familiar?

Whatever it was, it wasn't an Asiman creature.

"My lady."

Ariya almost didn't hear her maiden guard behind her.

"You must escape before it is too late," Cidra said.

"My parents—" Ariya turned back to what was once her home and sanctuary.

"They are distracting the creature while you escape. It seeks _you_." Cidra grabbed her arm and forced their gazes to meet. "There is no time. We will stage a diversion to help you escape, but you must go! Now!"

Cidra waved her away from the scene as the sounds of destruction spread across their township. As she ran across the wide bed of grass, Ariya looked over her shoulder. There under the swirling cloud of air, Cidra lead the band of female Aziza Amazon guards into battle. One by one they went down; their powers blocked and boomeranged back to them. Some were drained of their life-force yet, unlike her sisters, their blood remained. It was as if the creature sensed their powers and homed in to fuel itself from their life-force. Ariya forced herself to look away. She ran, cursing herself every step of the way. No matter if her father ordered her to leave, she felt like a coward for abandoning her guardians.

As she ran, Ariya tried with all her might to bore the images of death out of her mind's eye.

Mawu-Lisa, please usher my people into a peaceful passage...

From this world into the next.

* * * *

Jace Archane dug his fingernails into the pillow beneath the woman under him. He braced his body to slam violently from the oncoming orgasm rising from his feet and slithering up his legs. The girl moaned with excitement and writhed under his hard body. He reveled in the feel of her around him. Slowly his teeth dug deeper into her neck, mouth opening wider to receive the warm liquid trickling into his throat. She was young, nubile and glowing with a vigor of desire for him that reached her hungry eyes. Tonight, he wanted to drink until he passed out with contentment. His Uncle Julian called him in earlier, but he couldn't deal with business just yet. The old man would blow his top if he missed the meeting tonight.

Jace didn't care.

No matter what the bloodlines said, he wasn't ready to be Patriarch of the House of Blood. And just when he was settling into centuries worth of Regent duties. Time was on his side. He was still a young, virile man at nearly six hundred years old. This was the perfect time for their kind to roam freely under mortal eyes. Representations of vampires served as entertainment for the mortals especially hot, heaving women with a weakness for bad boys. They weren't hunted down and tortured like in the old days of the witch hunt. Now they were revered and worshiped in mortal books, television, movies, and radio. If it ever got out that immortals lived among them, it'd be chaos right in their very own backyard. It was better to leave these creatures with their imaginations rather than force them to face the truth.

Jace cleared his mind and focused. Tonight was the perfect setting for a satisfying meal.

The thought sent him over the edge, causing his torso to lurch into the rise of passion overtaking his body. His hips slammed into her with one last thrust. A deep primal groan emitted from the back of his throat into the quiet candlelit bedroom. He closed his eyes allowing the calm waves of pleasure to wash over him.

Then he remembered the silence.

Jace looked at his lover and saw her once deep blue eyes now icily staring into darkness forever. He waited too long once again. Her thin, pale body already grew cold as he gently closed her eyes. Stringy, blond tresses splayed across his five thousand-count Egyptian cotton pillows. Dark blood red stood out against the brightness. The stain was a reminder of the eternal curse that led to this deadly feed. With a gentle kiss on her cheek, he reached for the cordless phone and dialed a number.

This was second nature to him. Although he was like other Nightwalkers in needing blood to survive, he had been the only one to kill when he did. The guilt was too heavy to carry, and he drowned it out any way he could.

Jace let out a deep sigh, rubbing his hand over his face as he waited for his party to pick up. Like always, his body descended from the high while warming from the feed. He already missed the blissful elevation, even though more pressing matters waited for him than his unquenchable thirst.

"Polidori here."

"Hey, Angel. It's Jace."

"Well, well, well your highness. What could I do for a big important guy like you?"

Jace chuckled. "I'm far from high royalty. Just an heir moonlighting as a foot soldier for Julian."

"Not just any heir, handsome," she said. "Julian would have your head if you forgot how important you really are."

"He doesn't give me enough time to forget. That's not why I called though." He sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed. "I got another accidental necro on my hands."

"The feed again?"

Jace looked over his shoulder at the motionless girl next to him. "Apparently so."

"Well," Angel sighed. "Hang tight and I'll be over in ten. Your problem will disappear under an hour."

"I can't stay." Jace pushed off the bed, heading for the large wall-length closet on the other side of the room. A line of suits, pants, and dressy tees sat neatly folded over fancy gold hangers. Below the clothes, the floor was lined with expensive designer shoes sitting up against the wall. "Got an emergency meeting tonight with Julian. Okay if I leave her near the door?"

Angel scoffed, and though he couldn't see her, he knew she was shaking her head. "It's all right if you want to risk nosy human neighbors sniffing around."

"I'll risk it."

* * *

After a quick rest stop, Jace stepped out onto the street. The cold night air brushed against his equally cold skin. He wouldn't be shivering if he were still alive. Cold Scottish and Viking blood ran through his veins, making his body acclimated to the harsher side of the weather. In fact, he preferred it to the heat and especially the sun. It reminded him of home in the Highland mountains so long ago.

Jace loved the sounds of the surrounding city. Of all the cities he visited, downtown Phoenix was the calmest and low-key of them all. Everyone stayed in their own worlds and paid no mind to strangers passing by. Just how he liked it.

Now, summer was near in the city. The temperature flirted with the cold one day and teased with a warm caress of heat the next. City nightlife sprang to life with car horns, bright lights, and unsuspecting humans walking the streets.

He breathed in deeply, sensing the flurry of people with their thoughts and emotions as plain as the expressions on their faces. Even though his body was full from the recent feed, his nostrils tickled with the smell of blood nearby. The city dwellers smiled, laughed, and conversed among themselves. So unaware of what the world held beneath their radar for so many centuries.

Jace tightened the loose leather jacket around his body. He had to go. Angel would be here soon and he couldn't wait for her any longer. Julian would be calling any moment now. The old man was probably blowing his top about now.  
He stifled a smile imagining Julian trying to calm himself as his eyes bulged and his ears fumed. Sometimes it was the little things that made this life worthwhile. His driver opened the back door to the waiting limo and Jace climbed in.

The Ashen Twilight House was located downtown at the heart of the Phoenix art culture. A massive green lawn and large foliage obscured the structure, hiding it from the patrons who walked by. The ancient gothic European architecture was a vast contrast from the typical southwestern ranch style homes in the area. Although it scared the crap out of the older residents of the town, it was a scream during Halloween.

Thankfully, the streets were bare this evening. They arrived about a half an hour later in front of the large house illuminated by the dim lights delicately placed around the front lawn. The limo rounded the circular driveway and stopped. As Jace stepped out, he spotted the three main sports cars parked out front. The black Lincoln town car belonged to his Uncle Julian, Patriarch over the House of Blood. The hunter green 1956 Jaguar Roadster belonged to Michael Hammond, Patriarch over the House of Lycans. Finally, the dark green Corvette was Daoine Oberon's, Patriarch over the House of Shifter Elves. Julian planned to pass down the Lincoln when Jace's time came. As much as Jace admired the beauty of that car, he wasn't ready to take the House of Blood throne or give up his BMW Volga Roadster. Sooner or later his uncle would have to understand that. His life belonged to him to do with as he pleased. He was a Nightwalker, not a politician.

Jace ran up the steps to the front doors and waited until they opened. A small gathering conversed in the foyer. He immediately recognized Brenden, the tall, bald vampire in black sunglasses serving as head of security. Gael Almadovar spoke to him in small gestures and a hushed voice. Jace smiled and his best friend's eyes lit up with recognition once he looked over.

Gael took his office as Regent in the House of Shifter Elves seriously. On the outside he was calm, rarely showing any sign of impatience. One wouldn't know he had been a fierce warrior in his time, leading thousands of troops along the steps of Alhambra and her neighbors in the mid-fifteenth century. Gael's warm, dark tawny complexion, piercing green eyes, visible dimples on his cheeks combined with his groomed goatee and strong Moorish features made him an easy weakness for the ladies.

"Not at the Torch tonight, Gael? I thought we were meeting there with Rich."

"We are," a hint of the Spanish-African accent still lingered on his tongue after all these centuries. "I had to see Daoine beforehand, but he's in some big meeting with the other Patriarchs. I'd proceed cautiously if I were you."

Jace scoffed. "Big surprise there. See you in a few hours."

Gael gave him a small salute. "See you."

The soft muffled voices filtered to the East wing of the hall. To any mortal, it would sound like a low hum; indecipherable and barely recognizable as voices. Jace heard them yet still he couldn't make out what they were talking about. Usually, he tried not to interfere in the surrounding conversations. His keen hearing picked up everything. It was hard not to catch a topic or two in passing. No reason to stop the gossip train now.

He exhaled heavily. "Here we go."

When he opened the double doors and stepped in, the three house patriarchs looked in his direction. Jace straightened his posture and held his head high. _Into the fire._

"My dear Uncle." Jace held his arms out, smiling. "I came as soon as you called."

Julian stood around six feet with the looks of a smooth, handsome man in his late thirties. Baby blue eyes complemented a mane of wavy brown hair tied back in a low ponytail. The expensive suits he always wore made him look like a businessman always ready to close the deal. Jace could pass as his son and since losing his father so long ago, he considered the old man his second father. The truth wasn't too far off considering their lineage within the House of Blood. Jace would be next in line for the Patriarch if anything happened to Julian, barring him stepping down. And the chances of that happening was akin to Jace joining the priesthood.

The older Nightwalker stepped out from behind his desk to join Michael and Daoine in the middle of the room. He kept his gaze on Jace as he placed his hands on his friends' shoulders and spoke.

"Gentleman, I do believe this meeting is adjourned." Julian's voice was tight, intensifying the gaze he threw Jace's way.

"Did I miss something?" Jace smirked as he peered at each of the Patriarchs.

"Elder business, we were just finishing up." Julian's voice was overtly chipper and polite.

Oh, this was heavy. No worries. Jace knew how to play to his Uncle's wishes. It was nothing he couldn't handle.

"Until next time, Julian," Michael's gruff voice was deep, spreading throughout the room. His tall stature, stern gaze, and intimidating disposition would alert any mortal of the beast beneath the human facade. His long, blonde wavy mane and ruggedly handsome good looks meshed with his strong muscular build. He looked like a wrestler and could probably take on the best of them even outside of his wolf form. A sly smile crossed the Lycan's lips as he nodded on his way out. "Jace."

Daoine was another story. Tall, lithe and mystical, he was enchanting. Thin, angular features and slightly sunken cheeks accented his regal look. Any human in the vicinity would be enraptured by his presence alone. No one knew his exact age. From the moment he became a Shifter Elf, his youthful appearance would be his one eternal companion.

"Jace," Daoine said in a voice reminiscent of soft choir bells.

"Gentleman." Jace waited until their footsteps quelled to silence before closing the doors behind him. He turned to face his uncle with a broad smile on his lips.

"Uncle Julian, I can't say how happy—"

Julian's hand whipped across Jace's face like lightning, backhanding him so hard, he nearly fell over.

"You insolent little—!" Julian's smooth voice turned raspy, a warning he was pissed to the core. His jaw tensed and he exhaled to calm himself enough to continue. "You show respect when you deal with your elders and that includes being on time when I ask you here."

Jace straightened out his jacket, trying to maintain his composure. The right side of his face burned like fire while his mind raced to comprehend that Julian hit him like he was a stupid, little child. While he felt a little of his pride broken beneath his skin, he shook it off and stepped back to widen the distance between them.

"Minor detour on the way, Uncle."

"Your appetite could have waited until afterward. And judging by your call to the Necro Cerberus, I couldn't have contacted you at a better time."

Jace tried hard not to chuckle at the tinge of sarcasm in his Uncle's voice. Angel must've mentioned his call to Julian after they hung up. Either that or his phone was tapped by the blood brigade.

"Priorities, Uncle." Jace stretched his mouth to ease the sting. He gently brushed his fingertips against the tender area.

"Of which you have yet to recognize. I won't have the future Patriarch of the House of Blood being sloppy and destroying our entire legacy."

Jace sneered. "Thanks for having such great confidence in me, Unc."

"Don't you dare turn this around on me, Jacinus. You waltz around here acting like the eternal party boy with no care in the world for what's important."

"Oh yeah? And what's that?"

"Responsibility."

The word hovered like a thick, choking mist. Jace tried to shake it off with a laugh.

"Right." He walked over to the large, cushiony brown leather couch and sat down, stretching out his long limbs. "Is this why you called me here tonight, Unc?"

"Not necessarily." Julian walked back to his desk and reached for the waiting folder. He reached in and pulled out a sheet of paper, flipping flipped it around so Jace could read it.

"What's this?" Jace asked with a raised eyebrow.

"The signed affidavit to give over your entire birthright and inheritance. As the last Archane, it is up to you to carry on our legacy. But if you sign and relinquish it all, your life will be completely yours."

Jace's gaze bounced between the paper and his Uncle's piercing eyes. He tried to study Julian's expression, but his face was unreadable. He didn't dare try to read the ancient Nightwalker's mind. It was futile for someone as young as he. Plus, he valued his sanity.

"You mean if I sign this, it'll all be over? My duties and all the expectations. I'll be able to live as I please?"

Julian nodded once. "Correct."

The paper looked like any other legal document complete with an X signature line on his birth date; July 20, 1420. Jace dreamed of this moment since the war with Vlad Tepes a. k. a. The Impaler ended.

Back then, Jace didn't fully grasp the beauty of life as a Nightwalker. Now he lived every day to its fullest. He had suffered too many losses and preferred to focus on important matters like women, seduction, and the hunt. Revelry was a dish best savored across the dithering days of immortality.

Signing his duties away should have been easy. But it wasn't just the responsibilities he was letting go. The lavish lifestyle, his access to the finer things in life, and the status of the Archane name would also disappear.

"What are you waiting for? Isn't this what you always wanted?"

Jace shifted uncomfortably at the question in his mind verbalized by his Uncle.

"I—I just—"

"First time I've seen you at a loss for words, nephew." Julian smiled. "Are you having second thoughts about your request?"

Jace shrugged. "So, what if I am?"

"It's a difficult task to take on, I grant you that. Your father and I understood this. If you need help—"

"Hey, I don't need any of your frickin' charity!"

"Apparently you do if you're living on the Archane name and riches."

Okay. He had a point there.

"Look," Julian began. "I don't want to fight and I didn't ask you here to start one. We are family. Do not squander away this opportunity, Jace. You have inherited it by birthright. It's a gift and an honor."

A gift. Right. Jace took a slow, deep breath to calm down. He needed to get out of here. Maybe he'd find solace in the cold pleasures of the night. "Can I think about it first?"

His uncle smiled. "Of course." He slipped the paper back into the folder and closed it. "Take as much time as you need. Just do it by next week. There's much to discuss in the coming days, and I need to know whether you're with us or not."

"Naturally." Jace turned and headed for the door, eager to leave his Uncle's presence. "I'll be in touch."

"Jacinus—"

Jace froze at the sound of his full first name. With his hand on the doorknob, he stopped and turned.

"Don't take too long now," Daoine said. The gleam in his eye was a stark warning.

Jace didn't want to know what would happen if he didn't heed the Shifter Elf's words.

* * * *

Large rectangular structures covered nearly every part of the land. Dark, cracked concrete filled the ground instead of green grass. Black shadowy mountains sat against the horizon under the open night sky. Where was this place? The warm, comforting dusk that painted the Aziza lands had faded away before her eyes, now replaced by human lands. But what time period was this?

Perhaps she could decipher the time based on clues around the area. The elemental creature would surely find her if she dawdled too long. She had to keep moving.

Ariya pushed off the ground and started down the long stretch of road. A long dark alleyway sat a few feet ahead. Boxed vehicles with four wheels, some larger than others, passed each other. They looked like they were floating on air. The surrounding street was empty. The twenty-first century? It had to be, based on the architecture and vehicles. Now she had to figure out _where_...

The moon sat high above the sky, disappearing into the dark atmosphere from an azure hue. Night loomed in the distance.

Ariya continued along the empty road. Small, quaint one-story houses created a suburban residence on the next street. Some yards had bright green grass growing out front, while others had lawns filled with dirt, gravel and—cacti?

This must be somewhere in the Southwest. A cold shiver ran through her, fluttering her wings. She wasn't sure if it was a chill from the cold or the realization she was utterly alone.

Thankfully, the soft lavender dress made with hundreds of small Ostrich feathers was enough warmth for now. Soon she'd have to find something clean to wear. First, she needed a place to wash and rest.

A howl broke the silence of the quiet air. It was close. Too close for her liking. Ariya's wings fluttered softly as another shiver raised goosebumps on her arms. Not to worry. It could be coyotes. From what she remembered in her studies, they were characteristic of these desert areas. Maybe they were passing through. Yes, that could be it.

She continued walking when another howl followed moments after the first.

This one closer.

Ariya quickened her pace as a third howl broke out, now even closer than the first two. Her heart pounded rapidly within her chest as she looked around for anywhere safe to hide.

* * *

"Jace! You have a good night, all right?"

Jace stopped and turned to face Brenden. Julian's offer had been playing over and over in his head like a bad yet catchy pop tune. He was so deep in the 'what if's' and effects of his decision he almost didn't hear Brenden's voice. "What? Oh, hey. Thanks, you too. Oh! Did Gael leave for the Torch?"

Brenden nodded. "He should be there already now."

Jace thanked him and continued to the front door, taking a deep breath. He needed to work off this raging inferno boiling his blood. The ultimatum haunted him and only now did he realize how much his future could change with one decision.

What if he gave up everything and left on his own terms? Being a loner fit the life of a Ren and Jace would rather become a decaying corpse than have any association with those rogue Nightwalkers. He wouldn't have the luxury of feeding and discarding the bodies with Angel's help. He would have to fend for himself and hide his tracks from the mortals.

Then there were his art students. What if they learn the truth about him? Despite his lifestyle, he loved teaching and sharing the beautiful works of art he had created and collected over the years. Immortality offered him a variety of jobs and trades to learn throughout the ages, but this was one that never left his heart. Some artists he knew personally, a fact he kept in the dark corners of his back pocket. His students assumed his intimate knowledge of such famous artists was due to intensive studying throughout his years. If push came to shove, perhaps he could coach football alongside his best friend Rich and his pack mate Vex at the local college. When late afternoon practice filtered into nights, it'd be perfect timing for his... lifestyle.

Jace frowned at the thought. Not his idea of a great job.

"Would you need a ride home, sir?"

Jace didn't hear his driver's voice at first. He turned to the large Nightwalker sitting in the front seat. It took him a moment to realize the sound he heard wasn't his own thoughts.

"I'm going to take a walk to clear my head," Jace said, turning toward the sidewalk. "I'll be back."

"Yes, sir."

A warm breeze rustled the trees as Jace continued down the sidewalk. He was glad he canceled class that evening. No doubt he loved his kids, but the stress of his double life wore thin as the days went on. Sometimes a guy just needed time to himself.

Jace stuffed his hands in his jacket pockets. The night was unusually chilly as the cold air broke through the warmth of his coat. His mind wandered as he lost himself in the dark stillness around him. The scent of blood tickled his senses. _Wolf's blood._ And something else.

He turned toward the smell as a howl pierced the silent night.

And then another.

Jace quickened his steps and followed the sound as a third howl followed the others. A darkened alley sat around the corner. Silver white fur glistened in the moonlight before disappearing into the shadows. Then there were more. As he counted them, it had to be a pack moving in on something for an attack. He should walk away. He had better things to do tonight than chase Rens. And he was hungry.

Jace sighed. He'd regret this interference, but something told him he had to stop whatever was happening.

He ran like the rush of wind, hoping not to catch their attention. A bright, pale blue light emitted from the middle of the alley. The pack of wolves growled and circled around it, focusing on the brilliant center.

Jace studied their body temperatures. Their wolven forms melted into silhouettes of yellow, red, and orange. These weren't wolves belonging to the House of Lycans. _No. These were Shifter Renegades on the hunt to kill._

He shielded his eyes while straining to see through the light. The wolves continued to circle the illuminated figure in the middle. Their snarling maws watered with the desire to taste blood. He didn't come between a Ren and his dinner as long as they stayed on their turf away from the Houses. But this seemed different.

His fangs extended and sharpened as his fingernails grew as he started toward the pack and their prey.

* * * *

Ariya's defenses shot to full alert. These weren't the coyotes she had studied and heard about from her Aziza brethren. These were strange ethereal, rabid wolves with extraordinary powers. Their hides were thicker, shining like sleek coats under the light of the moon. If these were real wolves, she would look into their eyes and connect telepathically with them. Together they would form an understanding between their worlds. These creatures only saw red, and any connection she made was met with raging anger. There was something _off_ about these creatures. She needed a way out.

Think fast.

She couldn't fly away. What if mortals were nearby? She couldn't alert them to her people's presence after remaining hidden for so long. Unlike the hunters at home who relied on the Aziza for survival, these mortals had to stay unaware of her people's existence. At least for now.

She could try running, but where?

The wolf creatures circled her in formation, ready to attack. She held her hands still, holding the energy shield strong and steady. Something went off in them and suddenly the wolves leaped off the ground, howling viciously.

Ariya closed her eyes and looked away, holding her arms still as she waited for the end.

Nothing.

There was only silence outside of the high-pitched hum of the energy beam protecting her. Ariya peeked through one open eye and then the other. The wolves stayed frozen in mid-air. Their enraged gazes focused on her. Their open maws bared sharp, hungry teeth, suspended in mid-scream.

Ariya held her palms open, hoping the wolves stayed still. If her plan worked sparing no time, she'd get a head start before they were freed. She prayed this worked.

On the count of three...

One.

Two.

Three.

Ariya turned on her heels and ran. A single growl invaded the air somewhere behind her, soon falling into a string of loud barks. Soft thuds hit the hard pavement one after the other.

She pumped energy into her legs, running as fast as she could toward the end of the alleyway. Another growl, this one right on her heels, alerted her of the oncoming attack. She didn't have time to see the source before a thick, heavy body jumped onto her back, knocking her forward.

Ariya fought to push the beast away, yet still it held on. Its sharp claws extended, scraping her wings and penetrating her skin right down to the muscle. She screamed from the searing pain shooting throughout her body.

Help! Somebody!

The words rang in her mind, but she still hoped someone heard her plea.

Another growl and the stampede of paws racing across the concrete warned her this was the end.

A tall, dark shadow ran across the dim streetlight. She sensed it was a man though she couldn't tell from the blurred movement. Something yanked her backward as she felt the wolf pulled away. Its claws scraped her back and wings before sweet relief followed. The wolves yelped as they were thrown against the brick wall of the adjacent building. Another crashed against the hard cement with a sickening thud. Ariya turned to see the action under the dim streetlight, ready to thank the man who saved her. She tried to move when pain paralyzed her frozen. The cold air brushed against her back. Something wet was on her skin. Blood.

Ariya braced herself for another oncoming attack as more wolves turned the corner. The figure stepped in front of her and stood his ground. The alley's dark shadows clung to him like night itself. He swung at them, knocking the creatures away one by one until they fell into a rigid heap of fur.

The two closest wolves fell against the wall before sliding to the ground with a whimper. Their bodies writhed and glowed before transforming into human form in mere seconds.

"Lookie, lookie, Ralphie," the first with long black wavy hair said, staggering to his feet. "Princie boy is suddenly getting all heroic."

"Oh, he is, indeed." The other one named Ralphie had short blond hair. He smiled to reveal a set of prominent sharp fangs. "Why don't you put some of that Archane muscle to use, huh, pretty boy?"

What language were they speaking? Ariya sifted through her memory of the human languages she studied.

The wolfmen swung, but the figure moved fast as he zipped around the area in a blur like the wind. He moved with the elegant grace of a skilled fighter as he ducked and blocked any hits coming his way.

Ariya tried to sit up, but her limbs felt like they were made of heavy rocks. This was her chance to leave while they were distracted and she had to take it. _Move, Ariya. Move!_ She used all the power in her arms to crawl away from the fight, turning to look over her shoulder when she slammed against something hard. Strong hands gripped her arms and hauled her up to her feet.

"Well, aren't you a pretty one?" The large man before her smelled of rotting flesh and blood, causing her stomach to lurch in reaction. He was covered in darkness yet his eyes glowed bright yellow. She tried to wrench herself from his grip, but it was futile in his large, massive hands. Despite his cloaked face, she saw the slight lift of his lips and the crease of his cheeks. _He was smiling at her._

Ariya opened her mouth to scream as he sunk his fingernails into her arms and extended his claws.

She jolted from the pain, releasing an ear-piercing scream into the night. Oh, how she was tempted to focus all her power on him. With her mind alone she could spontaneously combust his blood, bones, and intestines from the inside out. But the potency of her energy would alert the creature she feared more than him. Weariness slowed her down after running and fighting for so long.

Just as Ariya sensed the end coming, the figure's body froze and his claws retracted. His eyes widened with horror before he fell to the ground with a loud thud. Behind him stood her defender. Slowly, he stepped into the light.

His entire body appeared colorless and translucent. His veins resembled thin vines slithering through milk. But it was his face, a strange conformity of shapes and hues that attracted her, frightened her, and yet entranced her like no one before. Long waves of brown hair framed his strong, angular visage. His features were well-defined as if he were carved from marble itself. Bright blue eyes stared back at her. His enticing lips thinned as his jaw flexed. He reminded her of a romantic hero long ago when kings reigned.

_Who was this enticing stranger before her?_ _Why did he seem so familiar?_

The pale figure smiled as if he knew exactly what she was thinking. "Are you okay?" he said. His voice was smooth, deep and those deep, blue eyes held real concern for her. He also had the slight hint of an accent. She couldn't quite place the fascinating rhythmic speech pattern. It differed from the others. His voice held a familiar yet faint brogue. Dark, yet mystical.

Ariya struggled to place why he felt so familiar to her. The muscular body beneath the suit he wore reminded her of those changing wolves and the mortals, but he was different.

English. That's the language he was speaking.

Ariya nodded slowly as her head grew light and her knees gave in.

"Whoa." He caught her in his thick, steely arms and she winced, feeling his touch against her tender wounds where the wolfman's claws broke into her skin.

Why couldn't she heal herself?

"I am well. I just—" she swallowed. "I do not know where I am."

Her cheek brushed against his, igniting a fire inside her body. She felt him angle his head to look at her wounds. "This looks pretty bad. Much more severe than just ' _well.'_ Come on, I'll help you."

He slipped his arm around her torso to help her up. _Everything would be fine_. The relief quickly disappeared as a loud, thick guttural snarl echoed behind them.

Ariya tried to grip the man's arm, but he gave her a hard push out of harm's way. A large furry creature sailed over their heads and she strained to see what it was. Before she could make sense of it, her head collided with something stony and very hard. Dark, ominous sounds of hissing and growling surrounded her before she gave into darkness.

# Chapter 2

"The corner of thirty-second and Sweetwater."

"You just left them there?" Angel Polidori's voice hit a high pitch with the question.

"Yes, Angel. What was I supposed to do? Drag their dead bodies over my shoulders across the city?"

"Gee, could you?"

Jace sighed. "Come on, Angel."

"I hope you at least hid them. What if the other Rens saw them? Or worse, the mortals?"

Angel was always the voice of reason. Thanks to her and the other Necros, the mortals remained oblivious to their existence. Her title of Necro Cerberus roughly translated into 'Gatekeeper of the Dead' and she lived up to the name in every aspect. Angel came from a long line of families who prided themselves on keeping a lid on any and all evidence of the immortals' existence. No matter her legacy, she was making too much sense for him right about now.

Jace tried to calm himself down with a sigh. "Yeah, I know. I just—I just needed to do something quickly before someone stumbled upon our little fight. I didn't have time fuss over details."

"Well, while you're exercising your brain muscles, I'm going to have to clean up your mess—yet again."

"Hey, Ange—"

"What?"

He closed his eyes at the thick tension over the receiver. "Thanks. Don't tell Julian, huh?"

"I don't have a death wish."

The line went dead. Jace clicked the 'end' button on his cordless phone and tossed it onto his brown leather couch. He took a peek over his shoulder, hoping the noise didn't awaken the girl. Less than an hour ago, he set her down to rest after he nursed her wounds. She was resistant to let him remove her dress. Fine with him as long as she was comfortable.

He wandered into his bedroom where she still slept peacefully. Finally he saw her clearly in the light. Soft, dark brown skin peeked through the pale lavender dress that was like a cloud of satin over her shapely figure.

He leaned in to study her beautiful, ethereal features.

A mass of curly, chestnut hair accented her attractive heart-shaped face. She appeared to be in her mid-twenties he guessed, but everything from her scent to the way his body reacted to her screamed that she was immortal. She could be hundreds of years old. He was sure she wasn't a Shifter Elf, a Lycan, and definitely not a Nightwalker like himself. What was she? The smell of her proved something more metaphysical and indescribably enticing. The power she displayed in the alley proved she was someone who could either help the houses or harm them.

Jace inhaled her scent once more. Sweet, comforting and refined. She smelled like the forest he used to run through as a child. Fresh and woodsy. Not like any areas around here. He fought the temptation to lean in and kiss this sleeping beauty's full lips. She appeared peaceful in her rest, not even stirring as he brushed his knuckles against her soft, dark cheek. Interesting. Her warm body didn't even react to his cold touch.

Jace had many lovers over his long lifetime. Most of which were beautiful, charming and very influential in their high societies. None of them, however, matched the woman sleeping before him. Why did this woman capture him so?

He gently caressed her forehead, reaching into the inner depths of her mind. Blurred images flashed before him. And then nothing. No matter how hard he tried, Jace couldn't sense her thoughts. _What are you hiding, my dear?_ Her smooth forehead furrowed as a faint moan fell from her lips.

Jace broke the telepathic connection and took a few deep breaths. The girl was obviously hiding something. He lifted his head to check the red digital clock on the end table next to his bed. 1:03 a.m. Dawn would be upon them soon. It was the perfect time to grab a bite before bed.

Hopefully, this mysterious girl would stay asleep for the duration of the evening. The less he had to explain, the better.

Jace stood to turn off all the lights in his home. After that, he stepped out into the hall of his building and closed his front door; leaving the strange girl to rest as the unanswered questions remained in his mind.

****

Avery gently stroked his brethren's matted fur. Once a shiny coat that was now dull, drenched, and splattered red. His blood boiled as he looked at the wolven corpses littering the soiled cement. Jace Archane. The cursed Nightwalker prince's mark was all over this bloodbath. Not only did he invade their turf, but also their plans to capture the powerful fairy.

He cursed softly.

The high and mighty Ashen Twilight House thought they had the right to interfere. Now it was free reign for retaliation. If the ceremony worked as planned, the Ashen Twilight House would be wiped out, leaving the mortals for the taking. The thought of such a future made him smile.

"Chase, Kason, Ralphie and Billy are down."

Avery peered up at his assistant, Raine, who pushed away a strand of shaggy hair from his eyes. "Good thing they changed from their human forms or else we'd have a Shifter hunt on our hands."

"Humans wouldn't know what they were, anyway," Raine mumbled in response. "Pathetic wastes of flesh and fresh blood. They still believe they're on top of the food chain."

"Can't risk it either way." Avery stood and began to collect the dead carcasses while Raine looked around the area.

Raine squatted down, his golden eyes surveying the scene. "She really did a number on them."

"What makes you think it was just her and not Archane helping her out?"

"Blakedon said she had the most power, right? Unless she's as dim as she is hot, I can see her wiping out the Shifters left and right, dude."

"Yeah, well, you gonna comment on the aftermath or you gonna freakin' help me already?"

Raine scoffed and shook his head. "Pssh. Whatever."

He joined Avery dragging each of the Shifter corpses across the alleyway.

Surprisingly no meddlesome neighbors watched them during the cleanup. Normally, humans couldn't get enough of the sensationalism and violence in their community. Avery expected swine to take flight any moment now. He grabbed his cell phone from his pocket and flipped it open.

"Hey, what are you doing?" Raine yelled.

Avery snapped the phone shut and glared at Raine. "Are we trying to alert the entire nation that we're here? Keep your freakin' voice down! I'm making a call to Blakedon to let him know to keep an eye out just in case Archane makes an appearance. Something tells me he's probably hiding her out."

From what he could remember in the fight, the Fae girl struck her head when Archane pushed her out of the way. She didn't move at all after that blow. In his sleepy haze, after he got knocked out—no, scratch that—after Archane slipped in a lucky hit, Avery watched him pick her up and leave the area. Luckily, they wouldn't be able to hide out for long if the elemental had its way. A thin smile crossed Avery's face as he thought about the impending death of Jace Archane and the houses. He'll be begging for mercy by the time the elemental destroyed him.

"Blakedon here," the deep voice emitted from the phone.

"Yeah, Dad, it's me, Avery. I got some good news and bad news for you. Which one you wanna hear first?

****

Jace lost himself in the city night and the roaring engine beneath him as he pulled into the busy club's parking lot. The girl would be okay on her own as long as she continued sleeping while he sought food for the night. The fight had taken a lot out of him. He could think of better ways to expend that kind of energy rather than wasting it on dirty, psychotic Rens. Perhaps he would amend that squandered time tonight.

Relief flowed through him when he spotted the familiar sleek silver and black Harley parked with the other motorcycles along the sidewalk. He stepped out of his Roadster and checked out the license plate. WLFKING.

He chuckled. "Just put it right out there, man," Jace said, shaking his head.

"You know I love to flaunt my good fortune." Rich Hammond held out his hands as he stepped away from the group. They greeted each other with a bro hug.

Jace waved to the small group conversing outside the club. Everyone was all kin here. Even if he didn't recognize or speak to them much, they were a close community of immortals with a blood bond since the first immortal walked the earth. They were a mixture of Nightwalkers, Lycans, and Shifter Elves with a reputation as good-for-nothing troublemakers wherever they called home. The surrounding mortal inhabitants knew to stay away. That reputation was better than the truth. If it ever got out that their kind truly walked among the living, a bloodshed like that of no other would follow in this paranoid culture, much worse than the middle ages when he grew up.

A familiar face caught Jace's eye as he nearly did a double take. Beautiful, smooth honey complexion. Dark, silky hair that fell in soft waves over delicate shoulders. Shelly Harmon lifted her moist, delicately painted lips into a smile once she saw him. Right away he noticed the hulking Lycan holding her close. Vex Truman. He could double for The Hulk if he weren't tan, blond, and attractive to the ladies. Though he shared the big green guy's raging temper.

Vex was Rich's pack brother, fellow football coach, and a moody Lycan, if Jace ever knew one—aside from Rich, of course. He supposed it came with the territory of being a Lycan.

Despite Shelly's curvaceous form leaning into Vex, he couldn't ignore the enticing thoughts she sent his way. Every aching detail sent his blood pumping faster. She and Vex were always hanging over each other and despite the lack of announcement of anything resembling monogamy, everyone knew she belonged to him. Perhaps it worked in Jace's favor that pack rules said she could never be Vex's mate. She was a Nightwalker and thus incompatible with the pack's need to continue their bloodline through offspring. Jace smiled. Technically, they had free reign to do whatever they wanted.

Rich's boots crunched on the rocky ground. The man could easily qualify for a center position on the Phoenix Suns basketball team.

"Whoa. Earth to Jace," Rich said, waving his large hand in front of Jace's eyes. "What's the matter with you?"

"Renegade attack earlier. Knocked me off my feet. I needed some fresh air."

"You do look pretty washed out."

Jace rolled his eyes. "Gee, thanks, man."

"Ha! I'm sorry, your princely worship, sir. Just calling it how I see it."

Jace raised an eyebrow. "I've seriously known you way too long." He cleared his throat and stepped back into a bike.

Rich emitted a deep growl in his throat. Jace jumped forward, holding his hands up.

"Sorry man." Jace grinned. "I forgot. The bike is precious. None shall touch the bike."

The Lycan bowed like a nobleman from his time. "Please continue."

"There is something else." _I have a strange girl in my apartment and she freaks the crap out of me because I don't know what she is or where she came from._ Thankfully Lycans didn't have the telepathic ability like Nightwalkers. Heightened senses yes, but their powerful strength rested with the physical more than the mental. He was half-tempted to tell Rich everything about the girl, or at least enlist his help to find out where she came from and who she was. For now, he erred on the side of caution and kept her a secret; one to unwrap later for himself.

"Had another necro job on my hands tonight."

Rich exhaled loudly. "Ah, man—You call Ange?"

"Yep. Right after."

"I guess the bright side is you don't have to cloud their minds after feeding on them like Julian."

Jace snorted. "Right. And I'm probably the reigning high king of kills thanks to the feed."

"It still bothers you, doesn't it?"

The question made him shift his weight from one foot to the other. The connection was never strong with the women he fed on and over time he learned to accept their quick deaths. It still weighed on his conscience from time to time.

"It does," Rich said. "I can read it on your face."

"Nah, man. I just—I need to curb this thing or it'll kill me one day."

Rich shrugged. "They're just food, Jace. A screwed up race of arrogant, greedy meat. Why would you care for their lives when they would just as soon wipe ours out?"

"Who said I did? And you forget we were once human."

"A long time ago." Rich shook his head. "Now we're just a cast of freaks to them."

Jace frowned. He hated to admit it, but Rich was right. The humans were blissfully ignorant as long as they stayed in the dark. He thought he had curbed the guilt of the feed long ago. He dodged a bullet in the late 1800s with the prostitutes of Whitechapel, England. During one of his feeding escapades, his blood curse haunted him as the bodies of the prostitutes piled up. Jace was thankful for another sick freak at the time who evidently came along and desecrated the bodies for some strange reason or another. Thankfully, the news media back then loved a good mystery and didn't press for the killer's true identity.

"Tell me Rich," Jace said, the memory still fresh in his mind. "How do you feel about taking on the Patriarch?"

Rich raised his thick shoulders in another shrug. "I'm looking forward to it."

"Really?"

"Oh yeah. I'm looking forward to standing at the head of the table, all eyes and hopes on me to lead them. Knowing I have their loyalty and trust..." Rich grunted and threw up his fists with a satisfying smile on his face. "It's a beautiful thing, man."

"Maybe, but these rules and obligations are killing me. I don't know if I can take it anymore."

Rich lifted a thick eyebrow. "What are you saying?"

"I'm saying this life as a leader may not be in the cards for me. Think about it. Would the Nightwalkers trust their lives and future to a guy like me?" He frowned again. "I'm not sure I'd even trust a guy like me."

Rich roared with laughter. His massive shoulders bounced up and down like a bobbing buoy in the vast sea. "Look, Jace, it's all nerves. I'm sure many good leaders get the shakes before taking the throne. Besides, think of all the babes that'll be clawing to be your betrothed. Aching to be alongside you on that throne."

"Until I have to choose my one betrothed."

"Jace and his immortal beloved." Rich held his open palms apart from each other. "And never shall the twain meet."

Jace licked his lips and looked past Rich to gaze at Shelly. Sensing his eyes on her, she turned to look over her shoulder. Then she licked her luscious lips in a slow, enticing movement. With a gentle wave of her hand, she fluffed back the strands of her soft, dark tresses and turned back to her group. The fullness of her cheeks told him of the sly smile she failed to hide. Shifting his position, Jace realized just how to make all his troubles go away.

Rich chuckled, noting Jace's gaping. "Shelly's been asking about you all night. She had a feeling you'd come by hungry."

"That I am, my friend." Jace smiled. He shared with Shelly the thoughts of what he wanted to do to her that very night as she sent him promises of a full night of pleasure. He couldn't help smiling a little wider noting Vex's distraction. This evening was looking better by the minute. "That I am."

"You know what Vex would do if he caught you looking at her like that?"

Jace tore his eyes from Shelly and looked at his friend. Rich's folded beefy arms reminded him of Vex's large frame and the explosive temperament the Lycans shared. From Rich's gaze, he sent that very message with his threatening posture.

"Of course. I've seen Vex in action before." Jace flashed him a toothy grin. "Besides, I was just looking at her."

"Make sure that's all you do."

****

Ariya stirred in her sleepy haze before her eyes fluttered open. She bolted up in bed.

A rush of images suddenly returned to her. Shya's brutal death as the elemental sucked the life from her. The demise of her parents, too horrible to witness even though their screams still haunted her. The nightmarish dreams of a bloody, violent battle in the mortal realm.

And that mysterious man standing amid the chaos of war.

Ariya surveyed the dim candlelit room. Nothing familiar stood out, but these were foreign surroundings.

Bright yellow hues from the candlelight emitted a relaxed, comfortable, and inviting feeling. Antique dark wood furniture covered the bedroom, matching the tall bookcases on each end of the room. The trinkets on the oak chest caught her eye. Rings with various designs of ancient symbols lined the top shelf of dark velvet. The ring with the ankh, the Egyptian symbol of life, reminded her of home.

Something else drew her eye. Another ring, this one made of silver and gold metal, adorned with two hands holding a heart topped with a golden crown. Pretty, though the design was foreign to her.

Behind the chest on the wall, a large Highland Claymore sword sat on display. She slipped out of bed to get a closer look. The bronze hilt was topped with a large, bright sapphire jewel wrapped in a black lacquered finish. A small shield sat inside the jewel. On the shield, an embossed red lion sat on its hind legs amid jagged red and yellow waves around it. Whoever crafted this piece was surely talented with his hands.

An inscription on the blade caught her eye. She tried to read it but the language, although interesting, was completely foreign to her. If only she could decipher it, perhaps she'd know more about the man who saved her earlier. Was this his home? Hopefully, he could tell her...

Soft moaning from outside the door broke into her thoughts. Her first instinct was to relax and enter any open thoughts in the vicinity. No. She couldn't open herself up to the same creature she hid from. Her other senses would have to do for now if she wished to remain hidden.

Ariya braced herself and followed the sounds. Male and female. Their scent: not human. Body temperatures too low to be mortal. Gently, she rounded the corner into the hallway. Flickering lights drew shadows across the wall from the larger room ahead. The sounds of pleasure invaded her ears like a rippling wind warming her body. Ariya strained to see but the couch partially obstructed their moving bodies.

Within the darkness, she saw the man; his wavy, shoulder-length locks partially covered a handsome face contorting in passion. His bare torso showed the strength, attraction, and chiseled features of the statues modeled after Grecian male gods. Even in the dark shadows, he was deathly pale.

He arched his back and jutted his hips into the girl underneath him. She hissed and revealed her sharp, pointed canines. Fangs. The girl caressed his chest with one hand while the other slipped down the front of his unzipped jeans. Ariya felt the rise of pleasure slowly overtaking him. The girl lifted her chin slightly before biting down into his neck like a predator capturing its prey.

Ariya watched in shock as the woman's neck muscles constricted. She was drinking from him! Fear raced through her body as she backed up into the wall. Her hand accidentally knocked over something on the table, causing a loud crash that alerted both creatures to her presence.

She had to think fast.

The front door wasn't too far. She sprinted toward it in a flash, passing the creatures on the couch.

In an instant, the male appeared before her like a brush of wind. His long fingernails extended into claws. The deep blue of his eyes changed to orbs of black and red. His lips parted in a snarl, revealing a set of large, white fangs.

Ariya opened her mouth to scream when she felt a sharp pain on her scalp. The girl must have appeared behind her during the male's distraction! Confirmation came when the pain intensified from the woman's hand fisted in her thick, curly hair. A thin, bony finger moved into Ariya's vision, the fingernail growing two more inches into an extended claw.

"Shelly! No!"

"What? Who is this girl, anyway?"

"She is not your concern!"

Ariya grunted and closed her eyes to block the pain.

If she concentrated enough, she could use her powers to distract them both and escape from this place. With a yell, Ariya raised her hands. A brilliant, blue burst of energy flowed from her palms and slammed into Shelly, throwing her against the wall into a group of picture frames. Shelly then dropped like a rock, crashing into the small table below.

"What the—!" Shelly struggled to her feet. "I'll kill her!"

Ariya raised her hands and sent another stream of energy, knocking Shelly back again.

"Enough!" Jace jumped in front of Ariya and held his hands up. "Stop. Please."

Shelly jumped upright again and lunged toward Ariya. Jace threw his arm out, blocking her.

"Shelly, she was just defending herself."

"Hey! You brought me here to be with you tonight, Jace. I didn't know you already had someone here. Do you ever think about anyone besides yourself? What happened to all that talk about it being just us tonight, huh? And here I find out you have some little—" Shelly looked at Ariya with venomous eyes. "What the crap is she, anyway?"

Ariya stood her ground with her head held high. She couldn't do anything else for fear of the creature coming after her. Still, she wouldn't hesitate to use small bursts of energy to defend herself from this blood-drinking monster. From the fire in her eyes, this Shelly creature wanted her dead. Thankfully, this man stepped in her way.

"Go home, Shelly." Jace kept his gaze on Ariya as he spoke. Right away, the two black and red shades changed back to a hypnotizing deep blue gaze like that of the sky.

"Jace, you can't be serious. I came here for you!"

Jace whipped around to face her. "Just go home, Shelly," he said with a growl. "I can handle this. I'm sure Vex is lonely for some company about now."

Shelly's expression hardened at the words. She yanked her arm away from him and collected her jacket and shirt from the couch. She didn't say another word nor did she look back before exiting the room, slamming the door behind her.

Ariya kept still, holding her hands up like a shield. True, he sent the woman away, but could she still trust him?

"I'm sorry." Jace grabbed his shirt from the couch. "You shouldn't have seen that."

"Your... mate has a temper," Ariya turned to the door. "She wanted to kill me."

Jace chuckled softly. "Perhaps, but I would call that good old-fashioned jealousy instead of intent to kill." He frowned. "Although, they're practically the same thing these days. Anyway, she is not my mate."

She looked at him, squinting slightly to study him. "W-What creature are you?" Perhaps she said that with more force than intended, but she to keep her guard up in this nightmare.

A nightmare she couldn't wake from.

Then something hit her. His voice held a slight tinge of an accent. Yes, he was the one who saved her back in the alleyway!

"You remember, then." He smiled. "Oh, and some would call it a bit of a brogue. I figured I'd lost it over the years, but it tends to creep up now and then. Ah, I see your arms have healed nicely. I was hoping they would."

Ariya noticed the softness in his voice. Why did he care so much that she was okay? And why was she drawn to him? He was cold, seductive, and wholly preternatural. Definitely something more than just human. Could he be a ghost? No, he felt too real.

The man stepped toward her and she backed up with each step.

"Don't be afraid," he said, holding up his hands. "I won't hurt you. You can lower your hands now."

As her mind raced, Ariya sensed his words were genuine. Slowly, she lowered her hands yet still kept her gaze on him. He promptly took a bow.

"My name is Jacinus Aurelius Archane, but you can call me Jace. Welcome to my home."

Ariya looked around the warm room decorated with dark brown leather furniture. So this was his home...

He raised his eyebrow and waited. "And you are?"

"My name is Ariya." She swallowed. "Am I still in the city?"

"Yes, you are."

"Where exactly?"

"Phoenix, Arizona."

She nodded, gazing around as she whispered softly to herself. "Desert landscape. United States southwest region."

"I had to bring you here after you were attacked—"

"By wolves." She turned to him, her eyes wide with wonder. "Wolves that changed into men."

"Correct. They were werewolves, actually. Renegades of the House of Lycan."

"Werewolves," she said softly to grasp the word. "Are you one of them?"

Jace laughed with amusement. "Actually, far from it. May I get you a drink?"

Ariya barely heard the question. She expected humans to live in this realm. Mortal beings much like the ones she communicated with in Dahomey. Instead, these wolves turned into men. The Asiman-like race of blood-drinking creatures that looked nothing like the beings of her realm, though the patterns were similar. "You drink blood—"

Jace nodded as if it was the most natural thing. "Yes."

The refrigerator door opened and closed and before she could blink, Jace was by her side handing her an empty glass and a bottle of spring water.

Ariya's gaze volleyed between Jace and the fridge. "How did you move so fast?"

Realization hit her hard. He may not look like the dark ghostly Asiman figures, but he surely matched the characteristics of the creatures her parents warned her about.

Waving her hand, she knocked the glass and bottle out of Jace's grip, sending them crashing to the ground. Ariya lifted her hands, hauling Jace into the air where she held him in suspension. Nothing would tear her gaze away from this creature—this Asiman—before her. No wonder this landscape was so barren with dying trees and dry brush. Sand and dust covered almost every inch of this city. It had to be their doing. The bloodthirsty Asiman creatures of her realm sucked the life from the land, weaken crops, and entered the body of animals to attack humans. Maybe it had entered one of those Werewolf things and to attack her!

Ariya's heart quickened. Furious rage flowed through her. This creature may have been involved in her family's death. Images returned of her sisters' corpses found in the fields outside of her family palace. Their powers and blood absent as if sucked dry.

"I know nothing about the deaths of your family!" Jace said as he struggled against the invisible field holding him captive.

Did he know what she was thinking? "The creature that sucked the blood out of them—was it commanded by you or any other Asimans?"

Jace's handsome visage twisted in confusion. "Asi-what? Listen, lady. I don't know who or what did anything to you, but it surely wasn't me. I've been here all night. And during the day—well, let's just say I'm not particularly fond of the sun." Remorse settled upon his face before he shook it away.

Ariya sensed something else in his emotions. Guilt.

She lifted her chin and met his gaze. A blinding attraction swelled her heart as she studied the hard lines of his face. Soft and youthful, a pale complexion in contrast to her smooth, dark skin. His bright eyes illuminated a deep mesmerizing shade of blue that focused on her, awakening feelings within her body she had been unaware of until now.

He laughed, deep and husky. "Why thank you, I am not but a day over six hundred. Now, can you please free me from these constraints? Your powers may attract something you've been hiding from. Perhaps you can tell me about that."

How did he know about the elemental creature?

"I'm not human," he confessed. "Not anymore, at least. I'm also not this Asiman creature you speak of."

Again, speaking as if he could read her thoughts!

"I promise you," Jace softened his gaze and words. "I mean you no harm. I just wish to speak with you."

Ariya studied him for a few moments, listening carefully to the sound of his words and the way he said them. If he tried anything, she would be ready for it. Perhaps her powers would attract the elemental, but at least now she wasn't alone. She slowly lowered her hands, allowing Jace to descend to the floor. Then she released him.

"How—how did you do that?" Jace said, cautiously moving to his feet.

"I'll defend myself if I have to." _Even if I never killed_ _before_ , she thought nervously. She planted her feet on the ground and tried to ignore her hands trembling at her sides.

"No, you won't." He approached her slowly. "You're not a murderer, you never have been."

"Get out of my head!"

"Okay." Jace held up his hands in defense. "I said I won't hurt you and I mean it. Just tell me who and what you are."

Ariya held his gaze. She studied his eyes. Sincerity settled in those deep blue depths. Still, she had to be cautious. "You give your word you won't hurt me?"

Slowly he nodded, carefully taking slow steps to close the distance between them. "I give my word as a gentleman, and as an Archane man of honor."

Ariya stepped back. "If you don't—"

"I won't. Look." He took a few steps back and straightened his posture with his hands folded behind his back. "See?"

Fair enough. Ariya settled her shoulders and took a deep breath. She was losing her mind. It was the only reason she could think of why she trusted this man. With slight hesitance, she pulled her sleeves down and allowed the gossamer dress to fall to her feet, baring her soft, curvy form.

# Chapter 3

Shelly held her jacket at her side as she strode down the street. The quiet city seemed unusually cool for the Arizona desert evening. It wasn't enough to mellow the storm inside her mind. Who was that girl Jace was protecting? She wasn't a member of the houses. Where did she come from? If Jace had allowed it, she would've torn the girl to pieces. Then they could've continued their night. This was a matter for the House. It was still early enough in the evening that they'd still be outside the Torch Club. She hoped Vex didn't notice her talking with Jace earlier. He'd ask where she'd been and who she was with. She needed to get her answers ready.

Oh yeah. She'd be ready for him. Besides, it's not like they were completely exclusive yet. A Lycan and a Nightwalker had no future together. But Jace was the one who understood her needs and hit all the right spots. Granted, she was growing to love Vex with all her heart, although she still had doubts about their relationship.

Shelly had her eye on Jace Archane since they first met decades ago. She liked that he took what he wanted and didn't apologize for anything.

That night, Shelly wanted him to claim _her_. She couldn't quite give herself over to Vex just yet. Not until she explored other options first.

Things would have worked out perfectly between her and Jace. If only—

The sound of loud rhythmic crunching sound made her freeze. Footsteps crushing tiny pebbles? Was someone following her? Shelly looked over her shoulder, but no one was there. Only darkness amid the yellow streetlights overhead. Shaking it off, she continued toward the end of the street using the light of the moon to guide her way. That crunching sound returned. Shelly quickened her steps and reached the bright yellow streetlight ahead in seconds.

Keep it together, girl. Nothing can touch you.

Her body involuntarily shivered despite the mantra she repeated to calm herself.

The footsteps quickened behind her and she broke out into a run. Once she reached the next streetlight, she whipped around hissing with her sharp fangs bared and her elongated fingernails ready at her side.

Nothing.

Part of her was thankful for no mortals in the area or else she'd have to make a call to Angel Polidori for a new pickup. An endless task, but an important one nonetheless. The girl must work around the clock. She chuckled to herself and continued toward the club.

In seconds, Shelly felt the ground disappear beneath her as the wind hauled her into the air. Something enveloped her like a snake coiling around her limbs and she struggled to move. She opened her mouth to scream, but the creature bound her throat, cutting off her breathing. It wrapped around her, seeping into the pores of her skin. Below her, the city grew smaller and smaller as it pulled her higher into the sky. Then the creature released her. She sailed through the air, free-falling to the cement.

Invisible blades cut into her shirt and jeans, ripping into her flesh like the metal claws of a shredder. Her tired body crashed to the pavement with a loud smack, knocking the air out of her. She forced herself to breathe. Instead of air, she coughed out thick, sweet blood.

Shelly stumbled forward, coaching herself to reach the club. It was only a block away. She needed to find help fast before it was too late.

****

Jace forced himself to breathe. His mind raced to make sense of the beautiful naked, glowing creature standing before him. In a blink of an eye, luminous, translucent frail wings unfolded from behind her back and fluttered outward to their full reach.

It couldn't be.

Jace froze in place, crippled with memories of the past. He imagined what the Fae would look like when his grandmother read to him as a child. The alluring wings and ethereal glow before him was a tangible representation of those fictional stories. Such beings didn't exist!

Did they?

****

Shelly's heavy footsteps echoed throughout the night air. As long as she kept moving and hearing her footsteps, she would still be alive. Heavy, jagged breathing fell in sync with each movement. Each step felt as if heavy weights pulled at her ankles. She focused on the club's parking to help spur her movement. Vex was still there, talking with Jace's best friends Rich and Gael and their friends. She struggled to call out to them, but the pain from the seeping wounds blocked out nearly all of her senses. She was losing blood—so much blood. The cool wind dried the thick sweet substance staining her face and body. She had to reach them.

Just a few more steps. A few more...

That creature—what was it?

She didn't even have a chance to fight back before it came down upon her.

"Vex—Rich—Gael, please..." The names came out in strained, jagged breaths. Her body gave out, dropping to the ground like a lifeless marionette that had lost its strings.

"Shelly!"

The deep timbre of Vex's voice washed over her as he scooped her into his arms. Like sweet nectar to her ears.

"Shelly, what happened?" Rich peered over Vex's thick shoulders. "Tell us."

"J-Ja-Jace—" she struggled. "The girl—she—" Shelly gasped as her body tensed. She was free now. Death slowly claimed her. She was ready for it.

Her eyes widened and then she went limp, gazing ahead into darkness forever.

****

Vex lowered his head and said a silent prayer. He closed her eyelids, his muscles tensing with anger as he realized the woman he loved was dead.

"What did it mean?"

"What was she saying?"

The curious whispers and murmurs continued as the small crowd hovered around them. Vex looked over his shoulder at Rich as he held Shelly close.

"Do something about this, Rich. Your fellow Regent is harboring someone who killed one of our own. If she is of the houses, she must be punished."

"You don't know that, Vex," Rich shot back.

"Yeah, man," Gael stepped in between them. "We can't jump to silly conclusions and turn this into a witch hunt."

"Did you two not hear Shelly just now!" Vex said through gritted teeth.

"I heard her as clear as anybody in this area. But Gael's right, we can't just go attacking with our pitchforks, knives, and clubs." Rich ran his hand over his long hair and sighed. "I'll talk to Jace and get to the bottom of this. Got it?"

"And what do we do?" Vex growled. "Stay here and cool our heels? I don't think so!"

"Hey! I am still the reigning Regent within the House of Lycans. I will handle this."

Gael reached in his pocket for his cell phone. "I'll see if the club members know anything," he said softly. "If the girl is connected to any members, it'll narrow things down for us."

"Good idea," Rich nodded. "I'll call you if anything comes up." He rushed over to his Harley and climbed on, starting the bike's engine. "Don't say anything to any of the Patriarchs until I return," Rich yelled over the motor. With a loud roar of his engine, he disappeared into the night.

****

Jace rushed over to Ariya. He quickly lifted her dress to cover her body. "You have to leave. I'm sorry I can't help you."

A mix of confusion and then frustration darkened her gaze. "What? Why?"

"I don't know who or what you are. And furthermore, I don't care." He shook his head, mumbling to himself. "I don't need this right now. I shouldn't have brought you here."

Ariya relaxed her back muscles allowing the wings to settle. "I'm an Aziza. Few mortals know of us, but the ones that do call us faeries. I come from the Dahomey Faerie realm. Until now I had the job of assisting hunters on their quests."

"Well, that's wonderful. Look, say for argument's sake you are one of the elusive Fae creatures. You are nothing at all what those legends described." He pushed away the voice in his head telling him it was all a lie. She was _exactly_ as described in the legends. But it couldn't be true. He _refused_ to believe it was true.

That's it. She had to go.

The sooner she was out of sight, she would surely be out of his mind. "I don't know what Faerieland you think you fell out of," he said, waving his hand, "but there's nothing I can do."

"Strange words coming from a man who had his blood fed on not too long ago. I'm finding it hard to believe that you exist yourself."

Jace opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. She had him there. No matter. This needed to end right now. He pointed toward the door. "Take your leave and we'll pretend we never saw each other so we can continue living our blissfully ignorant lives."

Ariya shook her head, waving her thick, curly tresses from side to side. "No. I have nowhere to go. Plus, those rabid shifting Werewolf things are out there and—" She took a deep breath. "I came here so a dangerous elemental creature won't find me."

"I'm sorry." Jace walked to the door and yanked it open so hard he nearly took it right off the hinges. "You should go."

Ariya quickly stepped into the dress, threw her arms into the sleeves, and tugged them over her shoulders. She didn't care anymore that he could read her thoughts. If she couldn't stay, so be it. She was probably better on her own, anyway.

"I came so far. Where will I go?"

Jace remained silent, his expression unsympathetic.

Ariya mustered up her strength and held her head high. If he were going to throw her out, she wouldn't let him see her broken. "You have a good life, Jace Archane. I hope you get yourself a conscience one day."

With that, she grabbed the door from his grip and slammed it behind her.

****

Who did she think she was? One of the Fae, right!

Jace scoffed and threw his hands up in frustration. He was well rid of her. A Faerie... here in his living room! He'd gone hundreds of years in the Highlands of Scotland fighting bloodthirsty princes, learning that Lycans, Shifter Elves and everything in between existed.

Now this woman claimed to be of the powerful Fae. Not bloomin' likely! Never mind the fact that she shared the same characteristics as them: beautiful, ethereal, somewhat powerful and smaller in stature than he. Her skin was a smooth, warm, and dark complexion. And those wings. He didn't take the time to check and see if they were real, but he didn't care. Though she possessed impressive abilities he hadn't seen before, Jace couldn't afford the time to deal with someone that lept out of a children's storybook.

Jace sighed heavily, ignoring the twinge of guilt in his gut. He couldn't help her. Even if something was following her, what could he do? Stand in front of her with his arms folded ordering the thing to take his toys and go home? What did he care? It was out of his hands. She was probably just a runaway from somewhere and needed a place to stay. Fine. Anywhere but here.

He checked the time. It was nearing dawn. A soft curse escaped his lips. And he was relaxing so well...

Now his night was wasted and daylight would be arriving soon. No time to indulge in a relaxing painting session tonight.

Instead, he headed for the bedroom as he slipped out of his shirt. What was he doing bringing her here, anyway? All he thought was—well, he thought...

Jace scoffed. He wasn't thinking at all. Once again he allowed his attraction to cloud his judgment. Though this time, he was drawn to this alluring creature.

He mentally tried to push away her words beckoning for help. Destiny and fate were mere words only believed by people who lived with their heads in the clouds. Not for immortals trying to survive in the real world.

No.

She had powers and good instinct. She'd be fine. Besides, he had other problems on his plate. Namely, his uncle and matters of the house.

Jace climbed into bed and exhaled to relax. He tried to ignore the sweet flowery scent of Ariya's hair that still lingered on his pillow. It was intoxicating and strangely calming to his senses. His mind returned to the Renaissance years, a calmer time when he used to paint among the vast green hills of the Italian countryside with Signore Da Vinci. A time he wished would return.

Finally, he closed his eyes, thankful for the soothing thoughts that led him to his peaceful rest.

****

Rich pulled up outside of Jace's apartment complex as the sun descended over the fiery horizon. He hoped Jace was still awake.

He parked and kicked the brake into place before leaving his helmet on the seat. If anyone tried to steal his ride, they'd surely pay for it in blood.

Racing up the flight of stairs to the entrance, Rich hoped the exertion would calm him down before the confrontation. He continued down the hall to Jace's apartment and knocked on the door right away.

"Hey Jace, it's Rich. Open up!"

Silence.

Jace could be asleep, but if he wasn't?

"Jace, come on man it's important!"

Rich placed his hands on his hips, sharpening his hearing senses. No one stirred on the other side. Jace must already be asleep by now. A soft curse fell on his lips. He wanted to give his best friend the benefit of the doubt, but Shelly's murder was a heinous crime. If Jace were hiding said murderer, it would shake the Ashen Twilight House to its core. He needed to figure this out fast.

He slammed his fist against the door in frustration. Obviously, he wasn't going resolve this crisis tonight. Grumbling to himself, he turned and left Jace and the situation behind him for the evening.

****

Ariya stirred in her sleep at the sound of someone pounding on the door. She waited a moment, but only silence remained. Perhaps she was just dreaming again. Ignoring it, she shifted to a comfortable position in the little alcove to the side of the hallway and fell asleep once again.

# Chapter 4

Blakedon fixed his dark velvet bathrobe as he peered through the French doors watching the calm Arizona morning. The sky was clear like most days in the desert. His nerves were still on edge after hearing about Jace Archane's interference on retrieving the Faerie. If it wasn't one Archane, it was always another getting in his way. Their time would be coming to an end soon enough.

He walked to the master bedroom suite overlooking the city and passed into his office. With a tap on his speakerphone, he waited for his cook to answer.

"Yes, Mr. Blakedon? What can I get for you?"

"Give me a plate of my usual breakfast with a double espresso instead of my usual brew."

"Right away, sir."

Blakedon hung up and then headed to the shower. The house was warm, spacious. He had it filled with modern accents of sleek black, steel, and white decor. Ancient relics of the past from all the places he had visited contrasted with the contemporary theme. And yet, it still felt like home. The first of its kind.

So much had changed over the years. Twenty-first-century modern living had everything a man could wish for. Fast technology and knowledge were at his fingertips. Not to mention a means to store his wealth gained over the centuries. Even companionship and power. Everything was available at the flip of a switch or the push of a button. Centuries ago, he never imagined such luxuries would exist.

And now he had a creature of the elements at his fingertips. Life couldn't get any sweeter. He breathed in deeply, relishing in the power he gained from the previous conquests. Fae, Nightwalker, and Shifter powers ran through his blood, igniting his senses. A feat that Vlad Tepes himself couldn't even achieve.

Blakedon opened his robe and allowed it to cascade to the cold, tiled floor before he stepped into the shower. He tapped the smooth, chrome button marked 'warm' causing water to sprout from all sides of the shower. Steam snaked around him, filling the shower stall as the hot air calmed his tense muscles.

"Would you like some company?" A female voice reminded him that he didn't spend the previous night alone. With a smile, he reached over and opened the shower door. A tall, yellow-eyed shapely beauty with a warm, dark tan complexion stood with her hands on her well-rounded hips. All she wore was a smile. He couldn't help licking his lips as he took in the magnificent sight of her from head to toe, allowing his gaze to linger a bit on her full, luscious breasts. Her yellow eyes glowed blue before they settled into a warm, cinnamon-brown shade.

He needed to pamper himself right now before his days and nights consisted of nothing but work. Stepping aside, he allowed her to join him. He was more than ready for a morning workout as he dove into her warm, soft flesh, eager to work up a healthy appetite.

****

Ariya blinked, awakening from her dream. It took her a moment to realize she wasn't home running through the tall green forest path that led to the palace. She was still in the mortal realm. As she wiped her eyes, she turned toward the pounding noise echoing from down the hall.

"Hey, Jace! Open up!"

She peeked around the corner to see the perpetrator of the commotion.

Broad shoulders stood out amid a thick, sturdy body. Long brown hair with highlights of red and gold cascaded down a muscular back.

Ariya couldn't see his face from her position, but from the way he carried himself, she figured he must be some type of warrior.

Why did he seem so tense and angry? Something dark and foreboding intensified the atmosphere. Slowly, she turned away from the scene and pulled her knees to her chest, to keep still until the coast was clear.

****

Who. Was causing. That. Loud. _Noise_.

Jace reluctantly climbed out of his bed, ready to tear to pieces whoever was on the other side of that front door.

"What now?" he mumbled tiredly as he grabbed his robe and headed for the front door. Fatigue weighed heavily on him as if he'd been sleeping for centuries inside a desolate tomb.

The louder the pounding, the more Jace felt homicidal.

"All right, all right. I'm coming." He unlocked the door and cracked it open.

On second thought...

Rich pushed his way in, ignoring the deafening thud of the door bouncing against the back wall.

Jace turned to watch the door, hoping it didn't fall right off its hinges and crash onto his nice hardwood flooring. Then he looked at Rich again. "Well, hello to you, too."

"Don't give me that crap, Jace," Rich growled.

"I am sorry. That hello bit was a little harsh. How about 'what the crap are you doing in my house this time of night?'"

"Don't be cute, Jace. Where is she?"

"Who?" Jace asked, wiping his eyes.

Rich moved in short, quick strides toward Jace. "Are you hiding a woman in here?"

What hornet flew up Rich's hide? Jace raised an eyebrow toward his friend. "As amused as I am for your interest in my sex life, I'm completely alone right now if you must know."

"But before?"

"Come on, Rich. You know."

"Yeah, I do. What did I tell you outside the Torch earlier? You didn't listen, did you?"

"What is this really about, Rich?" Jace wandered into his kitchen and pulled out a bottle from the fridge. Fresh, red blood. Might as well enjoy a snack while Rich occupied his time. Whatever the deal was, Rich needed to spit it so they can deal with it. Then he can rest. Sleep was out of the question now, but peaceful meditation wasn't.

"Shelly came to us, bloody, beaten and dying. She said your name and something about a female here at your apartment. She was here, wasn't she?"

Jace's hand shook as he poured the bottle, missing the glass completely. The dark red liquid spilled onto his white marble counter. Mumbling, he grabbed a cloth to wipe it up. "Shelly was here tonight, yes. Where did you find her?"

"Outside the Torch Club. It looked like something clawed her to death."

Jace slammed the bottle on the counter as a soft curse escaped his lips.

Rich approached Jace, his gaze never wavering from his friend. "Wanna tell me what she was doing here?"

Jace didn't bother to look up as he scooped up the spilled liquid. "I don't think it's any of your business. And I don't like where this questioning is heading."

Rich laughed and held out his hands. "The great bloodsucking Casanova. Why am I not surprised that you welcomed the nearest female throwing herself at you?"

Jace poured another drink and swallowed it down quickly. His patience was growing thin by the second. "I love you like a brother, man. But you're skating on some pretty thin ice."

"Hey, I'm just trying to find out what's going on, brother. Vex doesn't even know, does he?"

"No, he doesn't. And I'd like to keep it that way."

"Well, that's just tough, Jace! Shelly basically told him she was here with you and saw some girl."

"She didn't see anything," Jace said, raising the glass to his lips again. Chilled blood wasn't as good as the real thing, but he was desperate. It was the only thing keeping him sane.

"You sure about that?" Rich persisted. "What aren't you telling me, buddy?"

"I'm taking care of it."

"Obviously, you're not doing too good of a job of it. Shelly died uttering your name, and she mentioned a girl. The law of the house will hold either you or this mysterious woman accountable. If it came down to it, frankly, I'd rather it be her."

Jace was in front of Rich in the blink of an eye. His hand shot out and grabbed hold of the Lycan's neck. Despite Rich's tall stature, Jace slammed him against the wall and held him up by his throat as fire coursed through his body.

"What are you going to do, huh?" Rich yelled. "Who are you protecting?"

"Just stay out of it, Rich! I'm warning you!"

Rich growled sharply, eliciting a thick cloud of breath from his mouth. His handsome features morphed into a cross between a wolf and a man. His thick, muscled body expanded into a mass of fur and skin. Jace lost his grip on Rich's thickening neck and dropped him to his feet.

"Stop it!"

Rich and Jace turned to Ariya standing in the doorway. Her dark eyes had a fire in them, a mixture of quiet strength and a hint of fear.

Rich slowly morphed back into his muscular human form. The fur shrunk into his skin as if time rewound itself. His yellow eyes widened and focused on Ariya.

"You left the door open?" Jace yelled at Rich.

"He's protecting me," Ariya said, walking toward him.

Jace had to give it to her. Despite the way he had treated her and her fear of this new world, Ariya held her ground with grace and nobility. Impressive.

"Is this her?" Rich gestured toward Ariya.

Jace straightened his unbuttoned shirt. "She is not your concern, Rich!"

Rich's bright yellow gaze moved from Jace to Ariya. He took one step toward her but froze, running into Jace's hand slapped against his chest.

"Back. Off," Jace said through gritted teeth.

"You know what you gotta do, Jace. If you don't go to the council, I will."

"Why won't you just let me handle this?"

"You don't know who this is!" Rich said, gesturing toward Ariya. "She could have killed Shelly!"

Ariya stepped between them. "I assure you it wasn't me. I saw what killed her. And I'm sorry—I may have put you all in danger now. I escaped from a dangerous creature that is hunting me this very moment. I thought I would find solace here, but I may have been wrong."

Rich raised an eyebrow and scoffed. "Is she serious?"

"She seems to believe so."

"Either way, it's your duty to tell Julian, Jace. As Regents, we have to bring this to the council."

Jace headed back to the kitchen where his drink waited for him. Just what he needed; duty and interrogation. The very things he was running from. That contract looked more tempting each moment. "The council will have to wait until I figure this out."

"And in the meantime?"

Jace took a slow, thoughtful sip of his drink. He took even more time swallowing the sweet liquid. "We talk about this later."

"Jace—"

"Later!" Jace yelled, his thundering voice nearly sinking into a growl.

Rich took one last look at Ariya before storming toward the front door. "If you aren't at the Ashen Twilight House at eight on the dot, I'm telling Julian everything I know."

"Don't let the door hit you on the way out," Jace said, holding the drink near his lips.

The door slammed behind Rich, causing the room and windows to shake from the intense vibration.

Ariya turned to Jace and watched him carefully as her heart raced within her chest. "What just happened?"

"Goody two shoes at its best."

"No, I mean. He changed—into a wolf—man—creature—"

"Lycan."

Ariya mouthed the word. "So, he wasn't like those werewolf Lycan shifter things—only bigger? And... bipedal?"

"No, he can only shift into Lycan and human form."

"Well, what's the difference between Lycans and werewolves then?"

"The difference between bipeds and quadrupeds? Do you always ask so many questions?"

"Curiosity leads me to ask questions until I find the truth," Ariya said, folding her arms. "And you are a man of many secrets."

"You have no idea." Jace brushed past her and wandered into the bedroom. Ariya followed close behind. He didn't have to turn around to sense her stopping near the doorway.

What a night. Jace sat on his bed with an audible exhale on his lips. A Fae. A death. Now he had to bring House politics into it. Just when this evening couldn't get any better.

*

Ariya wasn't sure what to do. She wanted to say something, but what? She had no choice to enter this world to survive, but the thing had followed her with death and destruction in its wake. Now it was causing a rift between two best friends.

Jace peered up from his open palms. "How did you know we were best friends?"

"Must you do that?"

He cracked a thin smile. "You make it so easy, love."

Ariya shifted her weight uncomfortably. She would have to guard her thoughts around this man. "He seemed like he was trying to help."

"Right. Help. He's always been the boy scout between the two of us. Instead of helping he likes to stick his wet nose where it doesn't belong. Besides, you are conceding understanding toward someone who attacked you earlier."

"I was defending myself from her. I didn't wish her any harm. If anything, I feel guilty for her death. The creature followed _me_."

"But you don't control the creature?"

Ariya frowned and shook her head. "No, and I would never wish to after it killed my family."

Jace didn't say anything in response as he stared ahead, deep in thought.

"You said he was the... _boy scout_?"

He blinked. No doubt waking from some sort of daydream. "Yes."

"What does that make you?"

Although Ariya couldn't quite read his mind, the intense gaze from those pools of blue told her something was lingering in his thoughts. A darkness he kept locked away far from the surface.

"The complete opposite," Jace said, his voice hollow and grim.

She took slow steps toward him and reached out as if to touch the side of his face. "You don't seem so bad."

In seconds, he was in front of her, one hand gripping her wrist and the other wrapped around her neck. He held her there, staring into her eyes. His fingertips applied pressure but not enough to cause her harm.

"You sure about that?" he said, his voice low and gravelly. "You don't know me, Ariya."

"No. I don't. And neither do you know me. But I sense we'll both learn more about each other by the time this is over." She dropped her gaze to gesture downward.

He followed her direction and looked down. In the small distance between them, she held a ball of bright blue electric energy balanced over her open palm.

Jace bit back a smile as he stepped backward. He grabbed his collar and yanked his shirt off. Tossing it to the side, he fell back on the bed. "Perhaps."

Ariya looked over her shoulder toward the living room. One main window sat along the hallway wall completely enclosed by blinds. How strange. It was the _only_ window. Bundles of candles sat around the bedroom and along the hall, illuminating the area in a soft glow.

When she turned back to Jace, he was lying on his back with one arm draped over his eyes. He moved with such grace, and although he looked young, there was something ancient about him. What brought him to this point in his life? How did he become this creature lying before her?

"Scotland. Fourteen hundred and forty-three."

Ariya's mouth fell open when he peeked at her with one eye open and a smile on his face.

"But never mind me. I think you owe me an explanation."

"Must you keep invading my mind?"

He chuckled. "Must you let me?"

"Look." She started toward him. "I'm tired of fighting and running. I had no choice but to cross into this realm. I thought—" She frowned. "Did you say Scotland? Fourteen hundred and forty-three?"

"I sure did."

Memories of the dream washed over her. The man in plaids. He fit the culture, location and the period of the time. It had to be him! It would explain so much. Yet, offer more questions.

_Everything happens for a reason, Ariya_. Her father's deep voice echoed in her mind like a voice from the grave.

"Okay." Jace folded his arms behind his head. "Why don't you start at the top? Your family—"

"Is dead."

His eyes darkened before he let out a deep breath. "I'm sorry to hear that. And this creature you keep thinking about? It killed them?"

"My sisters and my parents, yes. When I last left my realm, it was after me."

"And this dream? How does it factor into everything?"

"I dreamed—" Her head suddenly went light. The feeling quickly left her limbs causing her to reel over. She reached out to grab the closest thing to steady herself. Her hand bumped something hard.

Jace was next to her in milliseconds with one arm around her waist and the other holding the fallen relic in his open palm. It was a mini wood sculpture of a medieval trebuchet. She had seen pictures of it in the history books shelved in the palace library.

"Careful now," he said with a smile. "You've had much excitement today."

"Yes," she breathed. "Being tossed out on one's hind end can do that to a person."

Jace cleared his throat, focusing on the small trebuchet in his hand. "This was a one of a kind gift from the artist Germain Pilon. It helps remind me of our military advancements over the years. How far technology has come. I can't go to eBay and get another."

She fought the urge to ask what an ' _eBay'_ was as approached her. Although his skin was cold, an undeniable heat emitted between them.

The intense fire in his eyes told her he felt it, too.

Ariya quickly moved away, brushing a stray curl behind her ear. "I, uh—was saying something."

"The dream and the creature, yes." He returned the trinket to the dresser before retreating to the bed. "My apologies for rudely interrupting your story. Please continue."

"Right." She cleared her throat. "The night of the attack I had a strange dream. There was a war. I think it happened a long time ago. The Ottomans—I guess you would call them the people of Turkey now. They fought against Vlad Tepes of Wallachia, Romania. Even stranger... I saw you there."

Jace nodded. "Understandable. I fought in that war and my best friend Gael was a General over the soldiers there."

"How is this possible?"

"It's a long story, but I will say this. I fought alongside my immortal brethren for the freedom to live and survive as we did when we were mortals."

"There was no mention of you in the history books I studied. Nor have I laid eyes upon you until this evening, you understand why it is strange that I dreamed of you."

"Look, I know what you're thinking, and I'm not one to believe in destiny or fate or any of that. It's highly possible that you dreamed of someone who _looked_ like me and when you saw me, your mind made the connection."

"Is it also possible that you happened to be wandering by the _exact_ alleyway at the _exact_ time I needed help?"

Jace shrugged. "Coincidental."

"No. Those wolves followed me as if they were waiting for me to arrive. This can't be coincidental."

"How can you be so sure?"

Ariya bit her lip before she continued. "Considering this creature is tracking me, I'm not quite sure what he is but the closest classification I can give... it is an elemental creature. I've only seen him command itself like the wind. But if he is an actual elemental, that would mean he can integrate himself into almost everything from fire, water, earth, even air. We've tried to stop him."

"Him? The creature?"

"The one _commanding_ the creature."

His eyes narrowed. "You know who it is then?"

"Somewhat. I _felt_ it who it was. Familiar, but I know not who exactly. My parents realized that I could feel events before they happened. Sometimes it comes like a dream. They tried teaching me how to harness the elements of nature. But my powers aren't what they should be." She shook her head. "I don't know how to control it. If I were to use my ability of second sight, I fear he will find me and kill me like he did my family. In fact, he may have already sensed me because I dreamed of that girl dying last night. Exactly the way your friend found her and the same way my two sisters died as well."

"Well, I don't know if I really believe this. I'm still trying to wrap my mind around the fact that you exist."

Ariya smiled. "That makes two of us. I still don't know what _you_ are."

Jace stared ahead with her words echoing in the silent air. "I'm a Nightwalker."

"Meaning?"

"Meaning I can only walk around freely during the night, or else sun's rays will sear my skin until I am nothing but a memory. I need blood to sustain my existence or else I'll die."

"Wait a minute, if you aren't an Asiman creature then—"

"The Western civilization calls us Vampires, and that's a good enough description. We're not blood-drinking spirit creatures that inhabit other people's bodies."

"You mean, you really exist? So you couldn't have known about the elemental. No recorded history has linked the two."

"Apparently not. None that I've seen firsthand, anyway."

Ariya shook her head. Now it was her turn to try to wrap her mind around all of this. "Wait, I thought you were just a part of mortal legends and scary stories told for entertainment. The Humans seem to have a strange fixation on you. Garlic, crucifixes, holy water and nights of skulking around for innocent mortals as their prey. At least, that's what I read in my studies."

"That's basically what we've been reduced to, thanks to a crazy Irishman who never visited Wallachia. Angel's father had a hand in it too, but that's neither here nor there. One person in a battle saw a Nightwalker from our army feeding and mistakes one of the bloodiest murdering conquerors in history as a Nightwalker. The massive depths to which our history has yet to recover."

"I don't understand," Ariya said. "Dracula was fiction."

Jace tilted his head in thought. "Ah yes, but the true history was not fiction. Vampires wouldn't even be an accurate term for us. We predate the origin of the word by three or four centuries." He swung his legs over the bed and stood. "That is what we are."

"And you do not die?"

Jace shook his head. "Not by the age of time, no."

"But the very nature of life is to end. That way your spirit may live on in another. To cheat death by taking the blood of another life, it's—"

"Surviving."

Ariya scoffed. "Defiance of life's very nature to maintain itself. A stolen life."

"Your rules are very different from us, Ariya. The exchange of blood sustains the body and life, yes. But to feed off that blood—"

"Is sacrilegious."

Jace's gaze narrowed on hers. "Is not unlike the predatory animals I'm sure you've come across. For them, it's survival. For us... an intimate connection. A close exchange of one's very essence. With the right person, it is highly pleasurable, but potentially deadly. It's hard to put into words. The heights of bliss one rises while dancing on the edge of death. Unless they share the experience with me, apparently. Then they don't survive at all."

Ariya folded her arms. "Well, if you wish to read my mind and prove yourself, answer this question. Would you ever bite me? Push me to the edge of death?"

Slowly he approached her, letting the silence of the room fall between them. Ariya stood still and held her chin high to show him she was not afraid.

For some reason, he let down his defenses allowing her to sense exactly what he was thinking.

Skin, soft and smooth to the touch. Beautiful. Essence, sweet and enticing. Blood, powerful, timeless and too tempting for him to resist. Like nothing he ever sensed before. Temptation rippled through his body like water. His body tingled, wanting her.

With one bite, he could take her and see just how far his tendency to kill would reach. Then again, maybe she would live afterward. Maybe she would be the one exception to his blood-filled rule.

A cold hand slipped around her face, cradling it gently as he leaned into her ear. "If I so desired," Jace whispered.

Ariya shivered as she turned to look deep into his eyes. Lust was in those deep azure pools. This man was capable of intense passion—and a quick kill.

"I assure you, though. You are safe with me." Jace gently brushed his fingertips along the length of her bare arms. "Looks like you're stuck with me, anyway. At least until this whole thing blows over and our names are free and clear once we get to the bottom of Shelly's murder."

Ariya tried to ignore the chill running down her spine; like a trail lingering long after his touch. Why did she have such a hard time focusing whenever he was near?

****

The roaring engine vibrated through Rich's body as he crossed the quiet streets of downtown Tempe later that morning. The sun ascended on the horizon, welcoming the new day. Its brilliant rays boasted bright yellows, oranges, and reds. Cheery colors, but he was anything but. His body still tensed from the encounter with Jace and the mysterious girl. Who was she? What was her connection to Shelly's death?

Like the mortals, the act of taking the life of their own within the Ashen Twilight House was against all laws. Patriarchs employed final death as a sentence, but only as a last option. Rich had seen many deaths before the houses united. The Nightwalkers, the Lycan pack, and the Shifter Elves all had a common threat with the mortals, and the only way to survive was to band together.

Rich noted the red light up ahead and gently pushed on the brake. The motorcycle came to a slow stop with the motor still revving beneath him.

He usually didn't go off on Jace like that, but this was a distraction he couldn't afford with his upcoming union.

After searching so long, he found the perfect mate and Co-Regent in the House of Lycans. She was beautiful, strong, and she shared an interest in him since they met. First, he would have to prove himself worthy of caring for the pack. Yet another thing to worry about. He still hadn't received an answer from the Patriarchs in the East. Even if he heard anything, they'd have to deal with Shelly's death first.

Could it have been a Renegade who killed Shelly? If so, this would be much easier to solve. They'd find and destroy the one responsible for her death and move on.

Once the stoplight turned green, Rich opened the throttle on his bike. He was close to the bridge overlooking the peaceful lakefront leading to the downtown college district. A large, towering figure loomed on the hill overlooking the shore. Rich turned off to the side and parked his bike.

Vex stood overlooking the river below, his massive body still as stone. The brawny Lycan didn't move or look over his shoulder even when Rich quietly approached him.

"You know how deadly it is to sneak up to a Lycan while he's deep in thought?" Vex asked, keeping his gaze on the water.

"Remember who you're posing that question to, Vex. A Lycan who nearly tore into a guy in a fit of hormonal rage."

Vex sighed and shook his head with a faint laugh on his lips.

"How you holding up?"

"I know it won't bring her back, but I just want to find the scum that did this to her and make him pay."

"We'll find him, man." Rich patted Vex's shoulder in assurance. "I promise you that."

"Tell me, Rich." Vex folded his arms across his thick chest. "Was Shelly really with Jace that night?"

Rich bit down a curse. With how tense his friend was feeling at the moment, the last thing he needed was fuel for his simmering rage.

Vex turned to him with his eyebrows raised. "Rich? Was she? I mean, you'd tell me, right? As a brother?"

"Yeah Vex, I would. But I can't say for sure. How did you hear, anyway?"

"After you left, Theo told me he saw them leave together. If I find out they were together—" Vex exhaled deeply, his jaw tensing. His bulky hands formed into fists at his sides. "When the sun falls to moonlight and the House of Blood has awakened, Jace Archane will face trial. Whether by Lycan law, Nightwalker or Shifter Elves, they will judge him for his crime. And I hope he pays."

"Vex, you have no proof other than your thirst to bring Shelly's killer to justice," Rich said, perhaps a little more forceful than he anticipated. "Not to mention, Theo's third-rate assumptions could prove false. Just hang tight while we try to figure this thing out."

"No!" Vex faced Rich with fiery eyes. "I have thought of nothing but Shelly since she died. For all of our sakes, especially mine and Shelly's, let her murderers come to trial and pay."

Rich gazed at the city ahead as the sun rose into full view. A long day lay ahead. Hopefully, it would bring the answers everyone needed.

# Chapter 5

Running water. Steamy, humid air. Ariya opened her eyes and struggled to gather her thoughts. The hallway was darker now. Night was nearing again. Did she sleep through the day?

It was so tempting to continue resting in this bed before—this bed! The mattress shifted beneath her weight as she slid off and jumped to her feet. Jace's bed! How many nights had Jace spent here? And with how many women? Sky above, help her. _That_ wouldn't be happening again! Not if she could help it.

The weight of the recent events wore on her mind and body. She stretched out her arms and wings. Food would be necessary soon. She didn't spot any fruit trees around the area. Perhaps Jace knew where to get some.

The bathroom door was slightly ajar when she stepped into the hall. It was rather inappropriate to approach a man while he's naked and bathing. It would be best to wait. She continued down the hallway and to the living room where the blinds were closed, with one slightly turned.

The yellow sun's rays barely filtered through the slits. She pushed one aside to peek through. Tall buildings cast the city into the shadow of twilight. A union of gold, red, orange and blues lit up the horizon like a matte painting wrapped around the atmosphere. The beautiful mix of colors reminded her of home. How were they faring in her absence? Was anyone left?

Cidra.

Ariya vowed to find out what happened after she left. As soon as the elemental was defeated, she would get in contact with her guards.

A brisk wind of steamy heat flowed from the bathroom.

Temptation made her stop and turn toward the partially open door.

Keep walking, Ariya. One foot in front of the other.

Temptation won as she gently pushed the bathroom door open. The room was large with bright white tile against tiny gold and glass accents. A great Roman tub sat near the window on the opposite end. Next to it was a tall glass shower enclosure. The stark silhouette of a well-built man outlined the foggy glass door. _Solid with lean muscle_. He was built like the warrior men of her land, yet he was different. Jace's skin appeared luminous and mesmerized her in a way that made his body distinct from any man she had ever seen.

He reached to turn the shower off. The shower door gave a whine as it opened.

Ariya froze as their eyes met.

Look anywhere, but do not look down.

"Oh, by all means—look." Jace grinned.

What gall! Ariya turned away as she cleared her throat. "I forgot you can read my mind."

"Well, it's a good thing you can't read mine at the moment."

"Normally, I could but..." She tried tapping into his thoughts but... nothing. She took a quick peek at him, noting he was still naked as a newborn bird. That stupid smile was still apparent on his face. She quickly turned away and used her hand to shield her peripheral vision. "You're blocking me."

He chuckled. From the sound of his steps and the shuffle of soft material sliding off metal, he must have finally grabbed the towel from the rack to cover himself. "Believe me, it's much safer this way."

"For you or for me?"

"Mm, for both of us, I'm sure."

Ariya turned away, pushing aside the temptation to sneak another peek. "I do find it strange that you stand in a stall of water for cleansing. You aren't human anymore."

"Germs love anything that lives and breathes. Even the so-called _undead_ that breathes."

"Are you really undead?"

He disappeared from outside the shower, and as she turned her head, he was right there leaning into her. He moved behind her, the hard contours of his body contrasted the softness of hers. Gently he caressed her cheek with his knuckles.

"You tell me." His voice was low, husky and inviting.

Ariya closed her eyes. His embrace was warm and comforting. His masculine body felt safe and protective. If she were not careful, she'd fall right into his–

"No." Ariya shook her head and stepped outside the bathroom. The coolness of the air was a welcome change from the steamy heat. She wanted to blame the steam for clogging her mind, but deep down she knew it was something else entirely. "That won't work on me."

"So I do have an effect on you," Jace said with a wide grin.

"You're a man of secrets. I can't fully trust you—"

He stepped toward her. "And yet you're still here."

"It's more dangerous out there than in here." She fidgeted, shifting her weight from one foot to the other. "Besides, after this is all finished I'll be returning home. I'd rather we keep focused on the task at hand. Also, if you really were undead, I can't stay around you. A creature that lives after death has a wounded, trapped spirit."

Jace's smile disappeared with the words. His strong jaw flexed as he nodded with a hardened gaze. "Right. Well, why don't you stay here and freshen up, hmm? I'm going to get dressed for class then we'll head out. There's an extra towel on the rack."

Jace left in a few quick strides, closing the door behind him. Ariya instantly regretted her words. She didn't know why exactly it affected him, but the feeling lingered with a cold emptiness long after Jace departed the room.

****

After a cool, relaxing and much-needed shower, Ariya patted herself down with the towel. The experience reminded her of the days when she would wash under the cool rushing waterfalls in the forest. This shower thing was nothing like her natural environment. It had the heat of the sun's rays coming out of the wall. How strange... these customs.

Her damp wings clung to her back like a thin lining of second skin. With a few rhythmic flutters, it took seconds to dry. She continued drying while gazing at the black starlight sky through the window. If this were home, she'd be getting ready to climb into her warm bed. She never would have slept through the entire day. Ever since she crossed into his realm, nothing was at it seemed. Or as she was led to believe.

Ariya couldn't wait to get back home and pick up the pieces of the land she left behind.

Soon.

After drying off, she wrapped herself in the towel and peeked her head into the hall. The apartment home was silent and still. Was Jace still here?

With light steps, she rushed to the bedroom and closed the door behind her. She exhaled and relaxed. That was close. Though she wasn't sure if Jace was home, she didn't want to risk being seen half-naked in his presence. The thought of it made her shudder.

As she turned, something lying on the bed caught her eye. An outfit? And one she hadn't seen before. A corset top with soft black lace wrapped around smooth dark burgundy satin. Blue jeans sat under it, and a matching jacket was laid out next to them. At the edge of the bed sat black knee-high boots waiting for her to step into them. She picked up the corset top and ran her hands along the soft lace lining. It was beautiful. She had to admit it was a little revealing but the delicate fabric looked so feminine and beautiful. It even had thin slits cut out in the back to allow her wings through. She smiled, feeling flattered. He really thought of everything.

"I hope everything fits well enough," Jace said, poking his head in. "I will give you some privacy to change. Meet me in the living room when you're through."

Ariya waited until the door closed and quickly began to change. She tried not to read into his thoughtful gesture, but still felt appreciative that he took the time to make her comfortable.

Moments later, she emerged from the bedroom, changed and ready to go. She stepped into the living room where Jace was relaxing on the couch, one leg slung over the other. The moment he saw Ariya, he jumped to his feet.

"These sacks around my legs."

"The jeans?" Jace asked, one curious brow raised.

She frowned. "Yes, they are snug. I'm not really used to them, but I'm sure I will get used to them. How did you know my size, anyway?"

"I took an educated guess. Then I made a few calls. I had them delivered a few hours ago while you rested." He closed the lapels of his jacket as he stepped back. His gaze roamed over her. "How do they fit?"

She turned around to show him the outfit from all sides. "You tell me."

Jace grinned and winked. "Perfect, actually." He offered her his arm with a gleam in his eyes. "Shall we?"

*

Ariya tried to ignore the heat making its way to her cheeks. His words lingered in her mind on the limo ride over. She shouldn't be reading too much into them, but the compliment touched her in a way she hadn't anticipated. Their acquaintance had been short, but still questionable. She had to mind herself around him.

A question lingered deep in her mind. She tried to ignore it, but curiosity was a powerful intoxication.

"What is it?"

Ariya turned to Jace, watching him lean on the fist propped up by his elbow resting on the window frame. He didn't turn to face her.

"What?"

"You want to ask me something, but you are too afraid. Perhaps you fear my answer."

She laughed nervously. "Are you always going to read my thoughts?"

He shrugged, still gazing out at the passing streets outside his window. "Occupational hazard."

Ariya frowned. "What do you mean?"

Jace chuckled. "It comes with the territory. One of my abilities. If you want me to stop, all you have to do is ask."

"All right." She turned to face him. "Please stop reading my mind without my permission."

"I will on one condition."

"And that is?"

He turned to face her with one eyebrow raised. "Ask me the question on your mind."

The man was insufferable. "Very well." No matter how good-looking or smooth he _thought_ he was, she refused to give in to his charms. "Would you ever feed upon me?"

Jace grinned, and she immediately regretted asking the question.

"Any particular reason why you ask?"

"No." She scoffed. "Only because it was your condition."

He shook his head. "No, you wanted to know this before I made my condition. I just helped you voice it."

"Are you always this difficult?"

He pursed his lips, thinking. "Depending on who you ask, pretty much. But to answer your question, I'd rather not get you involved. I don't want to add any more complication to your life. You have enough already. Besides, I don't know how my feeding would affect your body. We've never encountered Aziza before."

"Don't be so sure. Whenever you saw a bright shade of light or something inexplicably pure on a sunlit day, you've probably encountered a form of Faerie. Even if it is not Aziza."

"I should consider myself pretty fortunate then. I haven't experienced that in centuries." His smile disappeared even though his gaze remained on her. "Until now."

Ariya smiled. She opened her mouth to speak when his gaze diverted to the window behind her.

"We're here."

The limo eased to a halt in front of a massive mansion with multiple pillars aligning the front. Ariya was so enthralled with the home, she almost forgot the reason for their visit. After the driver climbed out, he opened her door and stepped aside.

Jace was by her side in seconds, smiling as he offered his arm for her to take. _How did he move so fast?_

As if noting her question, his lips lifted into a half smile as he bowed slightly. "Shall we?"

Ariya held onto him as they ascended the front steps to the large cherry oak door. A golden knocker in the shape of a closed fist clutched a half circle. Just as they reached the top step, the door opened. The front foyer could have been a home within itself with its open flooring, wide tapestries and dual gold cased spiral stairway that led to the upper floors. A chandelier sat overhead with layers of clear glass in the shape of elongated teardrops. The rooms were rather empty from the first floor to the second.

"Normally this place would be filled wall to wall with members of the house," Jace said, as they continued in. "But tonight, it'll stay rather private for our meeting."

"Jace, I don't know if I should be here." The open space made her feel small and overwhelmed with its richness. Would she be scrutinized like some stranger? Or will they welcome her with open arms? She was half-tempted to put her shields up for protection... just in case.

"It's all right, Ariya," he said softly. "I will be here with you. I'm sure Julian wants to resolve this as much as we do."

"I hope he realizes that I did not cause harm to that girl."

Jace sighed and nodded. "I will explain to him what happened. We'll get through this. Then we'll figure a way to get you home. Come. They're waiting for us."

The black staircase led to the second floor where the conference room sat at the top of the stairs. Ariya couldn't take her eyes off the beautiful decor as Jace opened the doors and waited for her to enter. A round dining table sat in the middle of the room. The only other furniture consisted of an office desk, a chair and a fireplace with a roaring fire. Old dusty hardcover books sat around the mantel. Ariya was tempted to peruse the titles to figure out what kinds of topics interested the members of this house. Perhaps some of them were history books telling of their past.

Above the mantel sat a crest of a half moon and obscure images carved inside: a wolf, a bat, and a dove. Two shields surrounded it: one yellow with jagged red lines; and the other a silver crest with a yellow sun in the middle and gray stars aligning an inverted 'V' line.

Footsteps padded across the floor behind them.

Ariya turned toward the door and gave herself a once over as she brushed her hands against her corset and jeans. When she looked at Jace, he was leaning idly with one arm perched on the mantelpiece as he watched the door. Curious. He looked like he was waiting for a concert to begin instead of a serious meeting.

The doors burst open and in walked the tall, long-haired man. She remembered him. He was arguing with Jace earlier. What was his name... Rick. No. Rich! That was it.

"Well, you made it," Rich said as he crossed the room. He looked at Ariya, frowning slightly before turning to Jace. "Both of you."

Jace grinned. "I'm a man of my word."

"Julian doesn't know about Shelly, but the pack is speculating. They don't want you in this mess any more than I do, Jace. We're all just trying to figure this out."

"I suppose staging a reenactment of the Spanish Inquisition starring the Patriarchs and Regents of the house is the way to do it?"

Rich's expression softened and his shoulders that had been filled with tension slowly deflated. "I had no choice. You know this concerns every member of the pack. Not just us."

"I'm glad one of you is eager to involve the group." A loud, booming virile male's voice echoed within the walls. Both Jace and Rich turned toward the doorway. Ariya couldn't help following the captivating sound herself.

A tall, handsome pale figure in a smoky gray suit entered and beside him was another even taller man in a dark navy blue suit.

Ariya focused on the second man. His large muscled figure tested the confines of his suit. He and Rich shared physical similarities. While Rich's hair was auburn with highlights of gold, this man had blond hair.

The first man looked like Jace. Though instead of shoulder length wavy hair, his hair fell past his shoulders. His classically handsome appearance reminded her of a romantic hero from long ago. Definitely an older version.

A dove flew into the room behind them with a soft white light floating over it like a cloud. In a flash, the dove transformed into a tall, regal figure wearing a blue robe and crown of jewels around his head. Two muscled guards in three-piece suits followed close behind and remained at the door.

"Jace, you should have brought this matter to the House officials," the first man said.

"I came as soon as I could, Uncle. However, seeing as I'm not an official Regent, I was planning to handle it myself... that is until Rich intervened. Shelly wasn't with any of the house members when she was killed."

The one Jace called Uncle turned to each of them. Jace. Rich. And then her. His deep, blue eyes widened as he studied her carefully. Ariya shifted slightly under his gaze. Although they didn't speak, the curiosity in their eyes as to who she was and where she came from was apparent.

"Shelly is dead?" The blond man said, stepping forward.

Jace turned to Rich. "You didn't tell him?"

"I was waiting until we got together to break the bad news," Rich said. "Thanks, genius."

"Don't genius me. If you told me beforehand—"

"Enough!" The older Nightwalker's voice boomed throughout the area, silencing both men. "One of you better start explaining what is going on. And while you're at it, explain to me why we have an intruder in our home."

Jace stepped forward, straightening out his jacket. "I think Rich is the best candidate for that explanation, Uncle. Considering he thinks one of us here is a murderer."

Rich scoffed and shook his head.

Ariya tried to make sure her curious thoughts were blurred. These two were best friends? She wouldn't have guessed it from the way they treated each other.

"A woman from the House of Blood died yesterday," Rich explained. "She made mention of paying Jace here a little visit, and when she returned that night to the Torch, she was dying. Broken and bleeding. She was uttering Jace's name." He turned to Ariya. "And also spoke of a strange woman in his apartment."

"It wasn't her," Jace said, as he stepped forward. "I assure you."

"How can you be so sure, Jace?" The large muscled man in the navy blue suit spoke up. His deep voice commanded attention from anyone within hearing distance.

This would easier if she knew who was who.

Ariya turned to Jace with her brow furrowed, hoping to convey her confusion.

_You needn't say a word._ His voice filtered into her mind before he spoke. "I apologize. How rude of me. Ariya, this..." he gestured toward the older Nightwalker sharing his features, "is my Uncle Julian Archane. He is Patriarch over the House of Blood. Rich, you know. This is his uncle, Michael Hammond. Patriarch over the House of Lycan where Rich serves as Regent."

The large muscled man grunted as he straightened his back. Hmm. Must be their way of a greeting.

"And finally, this is Daoine Oberon," he said, gesturing to the robed ethereal man who held his head high. There was something ancient, very male, and graceful about the way he held himself. "Patriarch over the House of Shifter Elves."

Ariya nodded her greeting to each of them and was grateful when the one called Daoine returned the gesture.

Jace looked around the room. "Where's Gael?"

"Late as always." Another figure entered the room. His smile captivated Ariya immediately. Dimples accented his already handsome face as he buttoned up the rest of his gray suit. "Apologies. I was held up at the Torch helping Mae get another set going. I hope I didn't miss much."

"Not at all, brother." Jace grinned. "Glad you came in time. Ariya, this is Gael Almadovar. Regent in the House of Shifter Elves."

Gael turned to Ariya. He took her hand and kissed softly. "Lovely to meet you, Ariya." He turned his attention to the room and froze. "Well, this looks serious."

"We were talking about Shelly's murder," Rich said.

"Indeed. And I had a question for Jace." Daoine Oberon's soft voice was soothing to the ear. His human form still emanated a glow of light, and to Ariya he was still as breathtaking as his dove form.

Jace nodded as he stood up a little straighter. "Go ahead."

"Were you with this woman all night?"

"I was," Jace said. He held his ground as Julian went to him, studying him closely.

"I believe you, nephew." Julian focused his gaze on Ariya. "But we still know nothing about her."

"Uncle Julian."

Julian held up his hand, silencing Jace. He walked to Ariya. "May I have permission to question you?"

Ariya turned to each of them, watching carefully until her gaze landed on Jace. It was _his_ uncle after all. Jace would alert her to any danger. Once he nodded her way, she relaxed with an exhale.

She hoped this was the right thing. As she turned to Julian, she braced herself before giving him a nod of approval. Slowly, Julian lifted his hand and waited for her to take it.

The moment she touched him, a cold chill washed over her. Images flashed through her mind like multiple moving pictures playing at once.

Its large body wrapped itself around her, choking the life from her. Heat rose from her skin, sweat formed on her forehead. She struggled to breathe.

A flash. The hold on her fell away like a leaf torn from its branch. Heat flowed throughout her body. Ariya tore the jacket off, letting it fall to the floor as she gasped for air. Her large translucent wings sprouted from her back, stretching out proudly to illuminate the room.

Jace raced to her side. "Are you all right? Uncle, what did you do to her?"

Ariya breathed slow and steady to calm herself. Part of her was surprised by Jace's concern, but she welcomed either way.

"Uncle Julian—"

"She means no harm," Julian said.

" _Uncle, what—?_ " Jace shook his head. "A little warning would have been appreciated. _Tha eagal oirre._ "

_She is afraid._ Jace's translation echoed in her mind. It was oddly relaxing despite how strange the connection still felt.

Julian's brow furrowed as he looked down at them. "Watch your tone, boy. How soon you forget to whom you speak. She did not murder the young woman."

"I could have told you that," Jace said as he examined Ariya, pushing aside her thick curly locks look at her face.

She forced herself to breathe slowly and speak her next words carefully. "You don't understand. He knows exactly where I am now. He knows where to find me."

For the first time since they had met, a look of fear fell upon on Jace's handsome face at her words.

"It's coming."

# Chapter 6

"An elemental creature is trying to kill me."

Ariya's words were soft, echoing across the quiet room. All eyes were focused on her and despite the attention, she didn't let their gazes or thoughts deter her. Slowly she stood, keeping her hands clutched together and her wings folded behind her. No one had said anything about her being Fae and only Rich's Uncle, Michael, and Gael had shown any surprise at the revelation. Daoine and Julian merely made small noises of curiosity and narrowed their gazes on her.

"It murdered my sisters and then my parents just as they warned me to cross into this realm. As you may already be wondering, I am Aziza from the Fae realm. Generally, we do not interact outside of the Fon hunters, but leaving them was necessary if I wanted to stay alive. I am the last of my family line. And if it is true that I am the only one to remain, I must return when this creature is no longer a threat."

"This...Elemental?" Julian asked.

Ariya nodded. "I believe this creature is what killed Shelly last night. It must have sensed that she had been near me."

"Is there any way to find out if your family is alive?" Daoine spoke next when the room fell silent.

Ariya turned to him and shook her head. "It isn't safe to return. I fear it will not stop with me if I am to perish in its hold. It feeds off me. I can feel it. Something, or someone, is controlling it and using Fae powers to fuel it."

Jace walked to her, gently placing his hands on hers. "You have no idea who is controlling it?"

She tried to ignore the warmth emanating from his touch. How could one be so cold and yet so warm and comfortable at the same time? "No, but I used my powers to cross over. I didn't want to overextend them for fear that I would alert it of my arrival, but...it is here and I'm sure it senses me now."

All of the members exchanged glances before turning to Ariya.

"I don't even know where to begin to look for such a thing," Michael said, throwing his hands up.

Julian spoke up next. "Is there any way to identify this...creature? Just so we know what to look out for before it strikes again?"

Ariya shook her head. "I have no clues or anything to go by. I was hoping one of you would know."

Julian turned to Daoine and, in response, the tall Shifter Elf slowly shook his head. "I'm afraid this is the first time I have ever been introduced to such a creature in all my years of living."

"Nothing in the books mentioned it?" Julian asked.

"No. Not in my knowledge." Daoine turned to Ariya. "I hate to suggest such a solution, but the only thing we can do is wait. Seeing as it is new to all of us, I'm afraid it is all we can do. Eventually, it _will_ show its face again. I suggest you don't go home right away, Jace."

Jace turned to Ariya as he spoke. "We can go to the Torch Club. It's crowded there and you should feel more comfortable with more of us around. We'll make sure you stay safe."

"Good," Julian said. "Stay there as long as possible and we'll see if this thing makes an appearance. As soon as it does, you call us."

"Will do, Uncle."

****

The Torch Club was located near the high-class district of Northern Phoenix, tucked behind a bustling freeway still active at midnight. At the door of the club, Jace and Ariya passed by the massive bouncer standing outside. Even in his current human form, his features shared the coarse traits like that of a wolf, complete with a pair of small golden eyes. His expression lightened up as he recognized Jace. Then the large man stepped aside to let them in.

Ariya was entranced by the interior of the club. The walls and the ceiling were like night itself with its pitch black background and tiny diamond-like stars to add to the decor. Some of the sparkles formed constellations. She remembered some of the names given by humans centuries ago. One by one they came to her: Orion, Aries, Hercules. Even the two dipping cups. A large moon sat suspended near the second-floor lounge changing in cycles from half moon to quarter and then the full moon.

As they stepped inside, the half moon morphed to full and the guests greeted it with a joyous howl.

"The club is welcome to all members of the house, but they like to flash a full moon at midnight just for kicks. Sort of an inside joke with the Lycans."

Ariya had to lean in to hear Jace over the deep, pulsating electronica music. She nodded and was glad he extended his thoughts to her mind, just to make sure she understood him.

A strong arm suddenly snaked around Ariya's waist and before she could speak, a large body bumped against her. The sickening scent of copper and some metallic substance emanated from the stranger's mouth. She turned to look at her offender and nearly stumbled to the ground with him. Whoever this man was, he couldn't stand straight if his life depended on it.

"Hey beautiful," he said, his words slithering into her ear. "I haven't seen you around here before. How's about you and me—"

He looked up and noticed Jace staring right at him.

"Hey Jace." He backed off with his hands up. "Sorry man, I didn't know she was with you."

Jace slipped his arm around Ariya and pulled her closer to him. A thin, tense smile crossed his face. A silent warning. "It's okay. Don't let it happen again, Rip. We're actually here on business tonight."

Ariya's smile disappeared when she heard the man chuckling lasciviously as they walked away from him. She wasn't sure if Jace heard his next words, but she surely did.

"Business? So, that's what you're calling it these days."

Jace led her deeper into the club past the slow, writhing bodies on the dance floor. Other guests sat at tables near the bar, deep in conversation.

Ariya heard Jace's sharp exhale, although the sound would be too low for human ears. He froze immediately in his steps as he looked forward.

"Jace, what—"

Ariya turned to Jace, watching him focus his gaze ahead. A muscular sandy-haired man with tense, wide shoulders and a fire burning in his bright, blue eyes headed their way. Rich was right on the man's heels trying to calm him down.

"You have a lot of freakin' nerve showing your face here, Jace!" The large man yelled.

Jace held his hands up, trying to calm the man. "Look. Now is not the time. I need to speak to you both—"

"Yeah? I have a few words to say to you, too, Archane. It starts right after I tear your throat out for stealing my girl."

Jace scoffed. "What are you talking about?"

"You wanna know what I'm talking about?" The larger man leaned in, but Jace stood his ground matching his gaze. "You and Shelly. I heard she was coming from your place the night she died."

"What? Who said—"

"Don't worry about it. And it wasn't Rich cause I know that's what you're thinking. He wouldn't say anything about it, but I did hear it from someone I trust. Either way, I should smash your face in for screwing her." He lunged toward Jace, hauling him up by the collar and shoving him backward onto a table.

"Vex, ease up man!" Rich yelled at his friend.

Jace wrapped his hands around Vex's neck, squeezing tight. His mouth opened abnormally large as he hissed, exposing his sharp fangs. A burly man in a suit rushed over and threw his arms in between them, prying them apart.

"Hey, you two! You know the rules. No roughhousing on the premises. And you Jace. You should know better."

Jace straightened his jacket once Vex let him go. "My apologies."

A few other men with similar large, muscular builds joined Vex. One patted his shoulder and attempted to pull him away from the scene. Vex backed up, watching Jace closely before finally turning to join his pack.

Once they were gone, Rich shook his head and exhaled.

"I didn't tell Vex, man," he said. "Theo told him he saw you guys eyeing each other that night and decided it was his business to tell Vex."

"None of that matters anymore, Rich," Jace said. "I just wanted you guys to keep an eye out tonight. If this elemental thing is circulating, we need everyone alert."

Rich nodded. "I'll tell everyone to keep their eyes open." He looked over his shoulder before turning back to Jace. "Listen, I'm with my pack tonight, so if you need me you know where to find me." He turned to rejoin his group.

"Rich—"

Just as he was about to walk away, Rich stopped and turned to Jace at the sound of his name.

"Thanks...for not saying anything."

Rich pursed his lips in a thin smile. "Hey, I got a responsibility to my pack and the House, but we've known each other too long to let things fester between us. Just don't do anything stupid."

"You know me."

"Why do you think I just said that?" Rich shook his head and chuckled before disappearing into the crowd.

"Ariya, you want a drink?"

Ariya turned to Jace and smiled. She remembered Jace calling the girl Shelly. The same girl who practically attacked her that night.

"She was afraid," Jace said, lowering his voice as he leaned in to make sure she heard. "Part of it was jealousy as well."

"I didn't mean her harm. I surely didn't wish her death by the elemental."

Jace slipped his hand over hers resting on the bar counter. "No one is blaming you, Ariya. If anything, I seem to be the one bearing that burden."

She looked down at his cold, pale hand covering hers. "Did you care for her?"

Jace's eyebrows raised a moment. He blinked. "I thought I did." He turned away, clearing his throat as he nodded toward the bar. "Come on. Order something. It's on me."

Ariya looked toward the back of the counter. A line of pumps filled with various colored liquids sat against the wall under a pyramid of different sized glasses.

"What do you suggest?" she asked, trying to yell over the loud music as a new song began.

"If you're asking me, blood."

"What!"

He chuckled and waved her off before turning to the bartender. "Hey, Ben! Something sweet and light for the lady."

"You got it, Jace."

He turned around to lean against the bar and watch the dancing patrons.

Might as well get comfortable. Ariya climbed up to the bar stool and swung around to follow his gaze. Various people all mingled together. Nightwalkers, Lycans, and Shifter Elves. Ariya felt the soft pull of her wings as they fluttered underneath her jacket. She was the only one of her kind here. Yet no one had questioned her or looked upon her as if she were some sort of anomaly.

"I would think people would be shocked at my presence here."

Jace shrugged. "Why?"

Ariya gestured toward her wings. "I'm not exactly part of this...community."

He chuckled. "No, not exactly, but you are one of us. Humans would fear us all if the word got out. That's why we stick together and protect each other."

Across the way, Vex had already settled down and was laughing with Rich. "Not all the time I imagine."

Jace followed her gaze and laughed softly as he shook his head. "No, we have our conflicts from time to time. Some like drama more than others."

"Here you go, little lady." Bartender Ben slid a tall glass down to Ariya. She stared down at it. Hmm. Brown bubbly liquid fizzed vibrantly with ice cubes bouncing like tiny buoys. Carefully, she lifted it to her lips to take a sip. The bubbles tickled her nose, sending her into a fit of coughs. "Oh. It fizzes. Even in my nose."

Jace chuckled. "It's a soda drink. Coke to be exact. You'll get used to it."

Taking a breath, she readied herself for another go. Maybe it was better the second time around. She knocked back the drink and coughed again, frowning as it bubbled in her throat. "I'm sure I will, but probably not right away." Pushing the glass aside, she turned to Jace. "Jace."

"Hmm?"

"Do you regret being with Shelly?"

When he turned to her, his mouth opened as if he had an answer right away. Then he stopped and shook his head. "I kind of do. Perhaps she would still be alive today."

Ariya watched the dancing crowd as she listened to him.

"Maybe I was presumptuous not caring at all about her and Vex."

The walls of the club slowly closed in, but no one seemed to notice. The loud, pulsating beats fell to the back of Ariya's mind. Her throat constricted, but she wasn't sure if it was the drink...or something else.

"I've always been that way, though. Uncle asked me one time why I was allergic to responsibility, even after all these centuries."

Ariya gripped the side of the bar as the feeling flowed throughout her body before slipping away. Something was wrong. For some reason, she felt the energy transfer somewhere else. No one else in the club seemed affected. They continued dancing, conversing, drinking and laughing as if it were any other evening.

"Jace—" His name slipped from her lips as her mind reeled. Her vision blurred as all sense of balance and feeling fell away from her. What was happening? She threw her hand out to reach for the bar counter, but only felt air. She fell sideways, ready to hit the floor when threw his arms out, steadying her.

"Ariya, what is it?"

"I can't—" The words escaped her as she sunk into his arms. The loud, throbbing music completely disappeared in her mind, replaced by the cry of a thousand mortal souls in pain.

The elemental had returned for another attack. This time on the mortals.

* * * *

Julian sifted through his papers for the next evening's meeting. Outside and down the hall, soft voices emitted through the door. Strange, he didn't remember any parties or gatherings scheduled at this time. He turned to investigate the sounds when his door burst open. Michael entered with his fists balled at his sides and shoulders tensed up. Daoine followed close behind him.

"I take it you've heard?" Michael asked, stopping at Julian's desk.

Julian tapped the stack of papers on the hard wood surface and looked up. "I have. I just got off the phone with Jace not long ago. The television has been on rotation with news reports of hospitals filling up with mortals. Tucson area. Apparently, our Fae friend felt the effects the moment it happened."

Daoine stepped to the side. His round, glowing eyes and angular visage focused with determination. "The Elemental."

Julian nodded. "Right."

"Any chance the one controlling it is in the affected area?" Michael asked, folding his beefy arms over his chest.

"Not sure. Michael, can you send some pack members down there to investigate?"

Michael nodded. "I'll get right on it."

Silence fell upon the room with only the soft thump of heavy footsteps padding across the carpet. Once the double doors closed, Julian hurled his papers to his desk. He didn't even care that they splayed all over the room.

"I can't believe this is happening _now_! We have remained hidden for so long. None of us will be safe if we have to leave the shadows now!"

Daoine was quiet as he stepped forward, his head bowed in thought. "Not yet. We may still remain hidden, but the elemental must reveal its master soon. It's inevitable."

"Hopefully, before more lives are lost. Is there any way for you to track its movement? You know much more than we do, Daoine."

Daoine smiled. "I wish I had that ability, but no. This creature is young although it's wielder is perhaps aged long before its time."

Julian sighed and sat down, leaning back in thought. "It can't infect the world."

"If it is airborne, it will. If what the young Fae speaks is true, it can integrate itself in all elements."

"Then we will move the council."

"The council cannot afford such an extensive transfer right now, Julian. We've spent years assimilating ourselves with mortals. You remember the reason I turned you. The same reason I asked you to take this responsibility."

Julian sighed heavily with Daoine's words echoing in his mind. The House of Blood devoted their lives to being silent protectors of humans and themselves. It all began with the massacre of Vlad Tepes' army and down to the major world wars. Julian always viewed it as protecting their food supply of sorts and a way of ensuring the House's survival. With the help of the other houses, the mortals were protected from themselves. Petty crimes on the streets were out of their hands, mostly handled by the Necro Cerberus and similar handlers.

Daoine reminded him of the vow many times.

"Well then," Julian said, nearly throwing his hands up. "What can I do, Daoine? It seems the only solution we have is to wait around, but how many will die while we do that?"

"I agree. This is something that affects us all." The tall Shifter Elf tipped his head to the side. "Your trust in him is doubtful."

"Him?" Julian looked over at Daoine with a frown on his face and curiosity clouding his mind. It took him a moment to realize who he was talking about. _Jace_. His nephew had been rambunctious and irresponsible for centuries. What makes Daoine think all of that will change now?

Daoine smiled. "Perhaps now is the time _to_ change that."

* * * *

Jace leaned against the back of his couch. It was a long night filled with more headaches and stress than he experienced in the past decade. From the news reports, the elemental kept busy. New patients were admitted to the hospitals nearing full capacity. Doctors rushed to find some kind of treatment, but nothing would stop the enigmatic virus. It was futile. No mortal would have a cure-all for a supernatural bug. If it were any other day, he would brush it off. Despite his own affliction in feeding, he couldn't just stand by and let them die.

He turned to watch Ariya sleeping soundly next to him. Her legs were propped up on his lap and she used his large leather jacket as a blanket. Earlier he had suggested she change into one of his old t-shirts, perhaps one from the college, but she refused and opted to stay on the couch. Still, he set out a free shirt on the bed in case she changed her mind.

Her dark curls splayed across the arm of the couch in soft waves. God above, did she look just as illuminating as the first night he saw her. His life had changed so much when this woman entered it. From the look of things, life had little chance of slowing down anytime soon. He was getting used to having her around. Maybe a little too comfortable with the idea.

Looking down at the silky soft skin of her bare legs on his lap, he was tempted reach out and touch her.

"What's wrong?" Her soft voice was tired and groggy, pulling him out of his thoughts.

Jace smiled and turned to her. "A lot on my mind, I guess. Did I wake you?"

"No." She sat up, shifting the jacket to cover more of her body. "I had a dream I was home. My parents were still alive calling me back and my sisters greeted me as soon as I arrived. I guess it jarred me awake."

"What's it like there, Ariya? Where you live?"

"Green. Beautiful grass and trees against a deep blue sky. The clearest air you can imagine. There aren't any buildings like the ones here, except for a few homes made from the Earth itself. Life is quieter there. We live off the land and give back to it. Everything has a balance."

"Not like here."

She shook her head. "Much different."

Jace liked the sound of her home. If he ever had the chance...no. They would part as soon as this thing was over. Ariya didn't belong here and, from the forlorn look in her eyes and the dream she awoke from, she was more than ready to leave. If only he could help her.

"Julian won't want to do anything," he said with a sigh. "For centuries we've stayed hidden from mortal eyes. We did everything in our power to keep it that way. An attack like this can destroy half of the mortal population in days. What if it starts on immortals like us? Shelly and the mortals may be the beginning. We can't just sit by and do nothing. Yet we can't handle this alone."

"Jace, I'm sorry."

"I'm not saying it to place blame on you, Ariya. Far from it."

"What if it knows I'm here? What if this is how it's trying to bring me out in the open to attack?"

Jace shrugged. "It should be able to find you if it found Shelly like that, I imagine."

Ariya shook her head. "Shelly wasn't its intended victim. Jace—" She leaned forward to sit up. Bad idea. She groaned and winced, reaching around to grab something for support.

Jace quickly grabbed her hand to steady her. "Easy now."

She took a moment to breathe deeply before speaking. "Jace, do not make the mistake of thinking that this thing can't get into your world. If anything, I believe that is where we went wrong. We thought no one knew about us and we tried to keep it hidden away. Now look what happened. My sisters, my parents...they all died and I almost died because we lived in a bubble thinking that we were immune and hidden away from the outside world. We're not anymore. And it took so many deaths to find that out. You can stop this before your people suffer as mine do now."

She was right. He had been running all of his life ever since his mother died. And then he lost his father. Something had to change. "Then we'll take this out in the open."

He reached into his jacket pocket, took out his cell phone and punched in a few numbers. With a gentle pat on Ariya's leg, he pushed off the couch and paced the room, waiting for the other end to pick up. Voicemail. Lovely.

"Uncle Julian. It's Jace. I hope you get this message tonight. I'm taking Ariya downtown at the corner of Sweetwater and Eighth near the open construction site. We're going to destroy this thing ourselves. If you get this message, well...hope and pray we succeed."

Jace tapped the end button and slid the phone back into his pocket.

"Did I hear correctly?" Ariya said, sitting up. "We are going to destroy this thing ourselves? But...how?"

"Don't worry. I'm not going to let it hurt you."

"Perhaps I should be telling you that."

He chuckled and went to her, leaning forward until their faces were mere inches apart. Beautiful. Alluring. So many enticing descriptions crossed his mind as he gazed deep into her brown eyes. Was it merely that she was Fae? Or was it something else?

Ariya frowned as she gazed back at him. "You _are_ serious."

"I am. Besides, it puts a nail in my coffin having a girl hanging around when I bring my lady guests up. I mean, how's that going to look?"

She aimed a playful punch at his gut, but he was quick to sidestep her.

"Hey now!" Jace laughed. "It was getting too serious for a moment there. Had to lighten the mood."

Reluctantly, she giggled softly and shook her head. Those eyes. Why was it so easy to get lost in them? Her beauty definitely didn't come from the fact that she was Fae. It was her. He didn't even bother to cloak his thoughts when she inhaled sharply from reading them.

"Jace...we shouldn't—"

He rested on the back of the sofa, leaning toward her. Gently, he caressed her cheek with the back of his hand. So soft and warm to the touch. The enticing, sweet smell of her skin and soft curls told him her blood would be even sweeter. Her heartbeat had been slow and steady for most of the evening. Now her pulse had quickened. Something was alive between them and no matter how many jokes he cracked, the feeling would still remain. Even now, he ached to taste her. Just once.

Until then, he would gladly settle for a sweet kiss from her full lips.

"It doesn't have to be..."

Forbidden. Dangerous. All the words that said they had no chance of ever making this work came rushing to him. And yet, he still wanted her.

Jace leaned in to claim Ariya's lips with his own. A soft inhale of breath told him she was just as ready, anticipating his move.

Their lips barely brushed when a knock at the door killed the moment. He was tempted to tell whoever it was to go away. Not a chance. The way their intruder knocked so rapidly, he wouldn't take no for an answer so easily.

"Jace! Open up! It's Rich!"

Jace sighed, lowering his head. Of course. What now? He angled his head to steal a peek at Ariya. She bit down on her bottom lip, trying to stifle the giggles that shook her body. _Yeah, perfect timing, buddy._

"Look at it this way," she said, patting his chest. "Maybe he's come to make peace with you."

"Either that or the moon was swallowed whole and the pack has an identity crisis."

With a quick kiss on her forehead, Jace forced his legs to move toward the door. When he opened it, Rich stood on the other side leaning against the doorframe. "I was hoping you wouldn't make me sit out here all night. Your neighbors already think we're weird."

Jace followed Rich's gaze to the older lady across the hall sneaking inquisitive glances their way. He blew her a quick kiss which made her blush as she ducked back into her apartment. "With mortal age comes the immense need for childish charms." He grinned and closed the door. "Like a fine wine, sweetens with maturity."

"You're twisted, man, you know that, right?" Rich said.

"You should talk. Besides, I thought you had to stay with your pack? You sure you want to be seen with me, the traitor?"

Rich entered the living room, nodding a hello to Ariya before turning back to Jace. "The pack is on call tonight. Michael said he wanted us to check the hospitals for whoever is calling this elemental thing."

Ariya pushed the jacket off her body and swung her legs over to the floor. "Did they find anything?"

Rich shook his head. "Nothing yet, but we're waiting to hear otherwise."

"I can't just sit by and wait anymore," Jace said. He went to Rich and slapped his hands on his friend's massive shoulders. "I have an idea how to get rid of this thing."

"Oh? We should contact the Patriarchs—"

Jace shook his head. "This is something that stays right here in this room. Too many people may interfere with baiting it."

"Baiting?" Rich slipped his hands on his hips and sighed. "This I have to hear."

Jace shifted his weight, suddenly energized with the plan floating around in his mind. "If we can get this thing in one concentrated area, Ariya may be able to turn its energy around and use that to destroy it. Since Ariya is its target and shares a connection with it, it'll definitely follow her."

Rich looked to Ariya then back at Jace. "You guys sure about this? Can it actually work?"

"Only one way to find out." Jace dashed back to the couch and offered his hand to help Ariya to her feet.

"Hey." For a moment, Jace thought Rich was addressing him. But when he stopped and turned to answer, he realized Rich was looking directly at Ariya.

Rich nervously shifted his weight. "I just wanted to tell you...I'm sorry for the way I treated you when we first met. I was out of line."

Ariya nodded. "To say the least." She softened her words with a giggle. "But I do appreciate the apology."

"Say, um." Rich moved closer to her and lowered his voice to a whisper. "You care about him, don't you?"

"Who? Him?" Ariya sneered as she gestured toward Jace.

"Hey guys, I can still hear you, you know," Jace said from across the room. "Enhanced hearing and all."

Rich fell into step behind Ariya, both heading for the door trying to hide their smiles.

# Chapter 7

Ariya sat quietly watching the streets zoom by as Jace drove them to the site. The rhythmic vibrations of the sleek black car was a comfort to her. Jace had called his vehicle a 'beamer', but she had no idea what that even meant. Rich followed closely behind them on his Harley. Both vehicles were much different than the slower, smoother limousine. Bright lights and busy sidewalks filled with night owls passed them by. So much new technology and architecture had taken the place of natural landscapes. Were the inhabitants of this time more content with easier travel? Did they enjoy the aesthetics of boxed constructions lining the landscape instead of green hills and valleys?

Soon it would all disappear when she crossed realms back home if Jace's experiment worked. A strange ache settled in her heart.

It was a good thing she'd be home soon. These past few days had been comfortable, almost like home itself in Jace's presence. Still, this wasn't her world. Her real home waited for her return. If they succeeded in destroying the elemental this night, it would be the last time she would see Jace, Rich, and the Houses.

She turned to Jace as he focused on the road ahead. Soft yellow light from the streetlights battled with the dark shadows dancing across his handsome features. He didn't give any indication that he was reading her thoughts. Maybe she had successfully cloaked her mind this time. Or maybe his thoughts were as crowded as hers. So much that he was distracted from listening in.

"You ready for this?" Jace said, turning to her.

Ariya pressed back against her seat and nodded. "Yes. The sooner we finish this, the better."

"I know what you mean. We should be there in no time. Just a few blocks to go."

Those few blocks had felt like a lifetime before they arrived at the site. Jace turned into the construction clearing and parked on an empty side of the road with Rich stopping next to him. Ariya's heart pounded within her chest. Her nerves were on edge, anticipating whatever was to come that night.

_Mawu-Lisa help me_.

Jace planned to draw this thing in, but how? She climbed out of the car and circled to the front of Jace's car as another vehicle roared up to them, stopping near Jace and Rich. A tiny silver horse decorated its fender. Elegant.

A striking, handsome well-built man with a smooth, dark complexion stepped out from the car. He fiddled with the buttons on the charcoal jacket he wore over a black satin shirt. A smile lifted his lips as he joined his friends. Ariya remembered him. Gael was his name! Regent of the Shifter Elves.

"Hope I didn't miss the party?" Gael said, holding his hands out.

Ariya hung back to watch the men with interest. Jace, Rich, and Gael took turns greeting each other. Theirs was a ritual she hadn't seen before, but it reminded her of a dance between brothers. Shake hands, pull each other into a half hug, lock arms and pat each other's backs. Fascinating.

"I called Gael on the way over." Rich grinned. "I figure some extra hands couldn't hurt."

"Not at all. I had planned to get you down here, but Rich beat me to the punch. Well now," Jace said, turning his gaze to the skies. "I suppose we should get to work."

"Any idea how we're going to take this thing out?" Gael leaned back against his car.

Ariya stepped forward to join them. "Jace had the idea of luring it with our energies."

Rich shifted his weight from one foot to the other. "And how exactly would we do that?"

Ariya turned and slowly walked out to the middle of the open road and stopped. She slipped out of the leather jacket she had been wearing and let it fall to the ground at her feet. Thankfully, it had been warm that evening. Her soft wings fluttered before fanning out to their full span. Carefully she lifted her hands as a soft blue light grew around them. She looked up, expecting a ripple in the sky like before.

Nothing.

She waited, her heart still racing. Where was it?

Still, there was nothing.

Perhaps she needed more.

Very well then.

Deep breath. _Focus, Ariya._

Inhale...Exhale...

She focused more energy on her hands, letting the power warm her body as the light brightened.

Come and get me, you stupid beast.

The anticipation mixed with fear both melted into anger and impatience as she watched the skies. Why won't it leave those mortals and come attack her? She was ready for it now more than ever.

And yet...still nothing.

No. She couldn't have been mistaken. The reason she was so careful was because she knew it sensed her energy. There had to be a reason it wasn't working now...

Ariya turned to look at the men, waiting and watching her. The same curious questions that circled in her mind were reflected in their curious gazes.

"I... " She swallowed deeply, angry and perhaps a little embarrassed that her and Jace's plan had failed. "I don't know what else to do."

Jace pushed away from his car and started toward her, the sound of gravel and stone crunching under his thick, shiny shoes.

"How do you feel?"

The question took her off guard for a moment. She quickly licked her lips, trying to sift through the mix of emotions tightening her stomach.

"Don't think," Jace said as he caressed her bare arms. "Tell me."

"I'm angry."

"Why?"

"I was ready, Jace. I _am_ ready. I want to destroy it and avenge my parents and my sisters. I want to eliminate it on our terms." She shook her head, feeling her resolve slowly slipping away. "But perhaps I was wrong. I thought it would come after me if it felt my energy."

"It may have needed something more primal and deeper than that. Maybe it needed your fear."

She looked deep into his eyes, feeling a certain comfort she hadn't felt in such a long time. She tried to seal Jace's visage in her mind. The way his pale skin contrasted against the dark night sky. Wavy brown locks framed his strong, handsome features that made him look like a Renaissance painting that had survived throughout the centuries.

"What if I'm not afraid anymore?"

"Maybe it knows that and it also knows you are waiting for it."

She was ready to ask him what else to do when his arms snaked around her waist and pulled her body against his.

_Trust me now._ His voice echoed loud within her mind as if he had spoken the words with his lips. _I'm here for you._

He took his time leaning into her. She drew a sharp breath and her eyes fluttered close. She wanted him to move closer and closer. She anticipated the feel of him. Excitement shot throughout her body as she imagined just how soft his lips would feel.

It was the sweetest kiss she had ever received. Her hands slipped around his neck, holding him close. The hard planes of his body felt so right as he held her to him. It was too easy to lose herself in the soft, silky strands of his wavy hair against her fingertips. She could stay here forever, surrendering to his hungry mouth claiming hers.

"Hey, guys. I think it's working."

Gael's words broke the silence between them. Ariya reluctantly leaned back and then she saw it. Brilliant, heated blue light engulfed both her and Jace, glowing brighter each moment.

"I think I see something!" Gael said.

Ariya turned to the tall Shifter Elf and followed the direction where he was pointing. A swirl of light raced across the sky heading their way.

"I think your little plan is working also," Rich said. His shoulders tensed and his back was arched as if he were ready to shift at a moment's notice. "Looks like it's circling the area."

Jace crooked a finger under her chin and turned her gaze to meet his. "Tell me how you feel now."

Moments ago, everything was clear. She was ready to destroy this thing that had chased her to this new world. Now, something had become alive inside of her. Jace's touch felt so right and comforting, like the home she had thought was long lost since her escape. She needed his strength to push her forward and she felt even stronger with him by her side.

But this couldn't be. She was an Aziza Fae, dedicated to the light and assisting human hunters. He belonged to the cold darkness; hunting his prey and moving within the shadows. They came from two different worlds. If she took the memory of him back with her, perhaps it would be enough to return to her life while he remained here living his. It had to be enough. It was a promise she hoped her mind and her heart would keep.

The bright gaze of his eyes darkened as his expression softened. He knew exactly what she was thinking.

"Jace—I—"

The dark desert surrounding them illuminated in a misty white light.

Something rose within her as a brilliant glow radiated all around her. She felt alive and energized like never before.

As she looked down, her eyes widened with the realization that something was wrapping itself around her, like a snake enfolding its prey.

"Jace!" His name left her lips in a breath before something pulled her from the ground and hurled her into the air. She reached for him, for something— _anything_ —to hold onto.

But all she felt was air.

*

Rich wasted no time as his human form melted away into a large wolf-like bipedal Lycan, growling and ready to fight. Not a breath passed Gael before he transformed into a large eagle. With a beam of light, he flew away from his fallen clothes and headed straight for Ariya.

Jace was ready. His sharpened claws elongated and his fangs protruded with a warning. He leaped off the ground, heading toward Ariya. Gael swooped down, clipped his beak on Jace's collar and pulled him into the air. As he drew closer to the rippling energy, Jace spotted Ariya's form. What was once a large mass of light had began to take shape. Angry, sharp claws amidst an evil face of jagged fire. Within the blur lived pain, suffering, and death. An omen, perhaps.

Another face appeared. A fair man with sleek, dark hair and a strong square jaw. A warrior type. Tiny indentations in the skin cornered his face and right away Jace could imagine him in full armor during the fifteenth century when they lived among the vast green lands in Inverness.

"You want someone to fight? Fight me!"

Jace's angry words combined with an underlying growl. Gael descended so Jace could wrap himself around the elemental.

Jace tried with all his might to absorb all of its energy away, using his talents like his Uncle had taught him. The power was that of 'psychic vampires', as the mortals called them, but the ability was available to all Nightwalkers if they focused hard enough. Gael stayed nearby, shooting bolts of sonic fire from his beak toward the elemental. The creature groaned in response with each bolt it absorbed. Jace held on as much as he could, feeling the creature turn his attention to him.

Suddenly, his cold body warmed and combusted into a giant flame. With an ear-piercing scream, he fell away like a ball of brush against the balmy wind.

*

No!

"Jace!" Ariya finally felt the Elemental's grip loosen around her body, thanks to Jace and Gael's hits. Tiny prickles hummed at her fingers and made its way throughout her body. Finally, she was getting the feeling back into her limbs. "Rich! Get him! Please!"

She threw her arms out, surrounding herself with hot energy to break away from it as her wings sprung to life. Gael fired off a streak of ice from his beak toward the creature. Its rippling body retracted with a loud rumble before it expanded and formed a transparent, watery arm to knock Gael away with a hard smack.

Gael fell back with a cry, his body free falling to the ground.

She had to stop this creature before it hurt anymore of her friends.

Focus, Ariya!

She couldn't let herself get distracted now, no matter how much she wanted to look and see if Jace and Gael were okay. _They had to be okay._

Ariya felt her wings cut into the air, as she gained more ground. Right away she sent a stream of hot energy toward the creature. The bright blue light slowly disintegrated the moment it hit the elemental, spreading throughout its body. The large mass leaned back and a gust of wind followed, sweeping her toward it. It was absorbing her power like it was oxygen!

She tried with all the strength within her to fly back, but the wind was too strong. As she drew closer to it, a warm, comfortable feeling washed over her. _Mom, Dad, Shya, Rhea._ She felt them as if they were standing right before her. Home.

It invited her to rest within its arms and forget everything. This was just a dream and the moment she touched it, she would be home again. Her mother would be sneaking into the kitchen to prepare a late night snack after discovering Ariya and her sisters couldn't sleep. Warm, sugar corn bread with butter. Her sisters would be in their rooms, smelling the baked goods and whispering amongst themselves before trying to get a bite. Her father would still be asleep and although they tried not to wake him, the absence of his wife and the sweet smell would call him to the kitchen. They would be here soon. She just had to rest now and wait for them.

As soon as the feeling came, it slipped away like a whisper.

Ariya shot her eyes open and saw the broad smiling face within the creature's mass.

"You won't get me, too!" She yelled, throwing her arms forward. A large wave of blue energy burst from her fingers and slammed against the elemental, knocking it backward as it growled out in pain.

This creature took her family and killed them as if they were nothing but nuisances. Bugs under its feet to squash. A deep groan erupted from the mass before it rushed forward and released a shockwave of its force, pushing her body away and down toward the ground.

Ariya reached to grab it but felt only air. Something moved within her grasp, confirming her hold on the creature. Pain shot through her body, but still she held on, hoping to drain its life-force with the fire burning within her. Slowly, she felt her own life-force draining as it pushed her down. She turned to look over her shoulder and saw the ground rushing toward them.

This must be how Shelly felt when she died.

Ariya forced herself to concentrate as her wings flared to life, battling the G-force of gravity that pulled her rapidly toward the desert gravel. She tried to rise, fighting against the air but her wings fluttered weakly, damaged from the Elemental's hold.

With every last strength she had, she slowed her flapping wings and raised her hands calling a shockwave of air to serve as a cushion between her and the ground while pushing the elemental back. She held it in place, finally letting out the breath she was holding when her feet safely touched the ground.

Jace lay a few feet away, leaning forward to gasp huge gulps of air as the embers slowly died from his body. From the looks of it, Rich and Gael had used their jackets to put out the flames. It was a small comfort to know that he was okay.

_How were they going to destroy this thing?_ They needed much more energy than they had left at the moment. They couldn't keep going like this.

Ariya went to Jace, her dragging steps quickly turning into a full on run. Each movement pained her, but the adrenaline overtook her body with the will to reach him.

"Ariya! Get down!" Gael's voice broke through the still desert air.

She didn't see what was happening behind her, but she moved on instinct. Diving to the ground, she felt the whoosh of wind over her head. Looking over her shoulder, she spotted the rippling waves of the creature in the distance.

Movement pulled her gaze ahead where a line of cars pulled up to the scene. The front car, a black Lincoln, came to a screeching halt. Two figures jumped out of the back seat with a blanket ready to throw over Jace.

Julian stepped from the Lincoln, removing a set of black leather gloves from his long, pale hands. His dark eyes focused on the creature as he walked toward it. A strength and quiet will settled in his steady blue eyes and clenched jaw. Michael, already standing more than seven feet tall in his full Lycan form, stood at his side. Behind them, a massive band of Nightwalkers, Lycans, and Shifter Elves filled the area; a crowd big enough to fill a small town. One familiar face stood out moments before he exhaled and turned into his own full Lycan form. Vex.

Julian held out his hands and, although the energy was invisible, Ariya felt her life-force draining. Then the feeling washed away. Her body was then re-energized with the strength of the Houses combining their powers as one.

A strong metaphysical force echoed throughout the area. Ariya looked up to watch the Houses standing as one powerful force that slowly overcame the elemental. Jace was right. They couldn't do it alone.

The creature's rippling form growled and writhed in the air before it fell down toward Julian and the others. The energy from all the houses seemed to be working to overcome the Elemental's power. Psychic vampires. She watched as it twisted into a funnel, heading toward the Ashen Twilight Houses.

Daoine stepped out, raising his hands as he closed his eyes. In moments, a flash of white hot light engulfed him and a swarm of bats stood in his place. The bats flew around the elemental, consuming it within their swarm and moving it toward the Patriarchs.

With a final screech, it jutted forward and surrounded the two Patriarchs. The swarm of bats closed in tight around the creature. Three bright lights illuminated the open desert landscape before it disappeared as if being sucked into the air itself.

Then...

Silence...

The vast open city landscape was still and quiet once again.

Ariya scrambled over to Jace's covered body. She tore the blanket away, eager to see him with her own eyes. A gasp escaped her before she could stop it. His smooth skin had been charred completely.

"Jace—" Ariya's voice was tiny, broken by the tears forming in her eyes as she caressed his damaged skin. His face was unrecognizable and her heart ached as she finally realized the severity of his injuries. "Jace, please look at me."

He moved slowly as if each breath was more painful than the last.

"Feed." The strained word fell from his lips in a jagged exhale. "I need to feed."

Ariya looked up, sensing a figure out of the corner of her eye. She turned to face Julian standing and watching with stoic observance.

"We need to help him," Ariya pleaded through oncoming tears. "Is there anything we can do?"

"It would take too long to get a mortal here in time to replenish his energy," Rich said, now back in his human form.

"Quite true," Julian responded, his gaze still focused on Jace.

There had to be something they could do. Ariya swiped at her eyes. "Then what? I want to help him. He gave his life to help me. I'd do anything to save his."

"Ariya."

At the sound of her name, she immediately turned to Jace. The look in his eyes and the subtle tremor of his hungry voice alerted her of what he really needed. _Blood._

Right away she pulled her curly hair away to bare her neck to him.

"Take me," she whispered. Her warm breath caressing his hot, broken skin.

"No, Ariya," he said weakly. "I can't take your life. I've never—"

I've never fed before without killing in the process.

She silenced him, leaning down to press her lips against his. "I trust you," she whispered into his mouth.

_I can't chance it, Ariya,_ his words echoed in her mind.

Ariya remembered his words about the feed.

With the right person, it is highly pleasurable, but potentially deadly. It's hard to put into words the heights of bliss one rises to as they are pushed to the edge of death. Unless they share the experience with me, apparently. Then they don't survive at all.

She sensed him tense with her remembrance and a wash of fear fell over him at the risk. Despite it all, she couldn't let him die here. She _refused_ to stand by and lose another person. This was the only option, even if she had to force her blood in his mouth to help him stay alive.

Jace's understanding was confirmed as she felt his cold, yet gentle, touch. His hand caressed her neck before reaching up to cradle her head. Pulling her down to him, he entangled his fingers in her tight, curly locks. He sucked in a sharp gulp of air.

"Ariya, please forgive me." Jace gripped a handful of locks in a tight fist and opened his mouth to reveal his shiny, white fangs.

With a soft growl from deep within his throat, he sunk his teeth into the soft skin of her neck.

Pain shot throughout her body, mixing with waves of pleasure. Jace held onto her as he fed, taking not only the energy to revive his body, but her essence that soon mixed with his own.

Ariya's blood was on fire with a passion she had never felt before. Sensual pleasure shot straight to her core. _She_ wanted more. She needed to have more of him.

Just when she thought her body was ready to explode, he released her and she fell back on the sandy ground with shallow breaths on her lips.

Jace's hands curled into claws and his back arched as he released a loud thunderous roar. His body regenerated itself right before her eyes from a scalded, damaged figure to his youthful, pale handsome form. His breath slowed until he calmed as the night stilled around them. He didn't waste another moment before rushing over to Ariya.

"Ariya—" He grabbed her arms and helped her sit up. Gently, he caressed the two puncture wounds he had made on her neck.

The pain dissipated under his touch and when Ariya brushed her finger over the tender area, she found it smooth, as if he had never fed. How did he do that?

"Jace?" she said, her voice weak even to her own ears.

"Yes, baby. It's me." He brushed his fingers against her hair, smiling as he gave a gentle laugh.

Sirens loomed in the distance and the spell between them had been broken.

"Looks like that's our cue," Rich said with a gruff edge to his tone.

Jace looked up at his Uncle watching them in silence. "Uncle, I know you don't condone—"

Julian held up his hand, silencing Jace. "We'll discuss this later. Come, you can rest at the Ashen Twilight House."

Rich tapped Gael's chest before gesturing to their waiting vehicles.

Gael nodded in response. "We also need to clear out before the Mortal law enforcers arrive with questions."

Car engines started up like a musical symphony followed by a succession of doors opening and closing. Jace scooped Ariya up into his arms and rushed over to a nearby limo where Rich held the back door open.

Jace froze as something dawned on him. "Your bike."

Rich waved him away. "Uncle's got it taken care of. Come on."

Jace climbed in the back, settling across from Gael while he set Ariya down in the seat next to him. Rich tapped the top of the limo before climbing in to join them. As soon as he closed his door, the limo started on its way.

Ariya moved over to Jace to rest on his chest as he embraced her. Wrapping her arms around his torso, she exhaled softly, finally feeling the weight of the night's events slip away.

"She lived," Rich said, smiling proudly.

Jace nodded. "That she did."

"You know what this could mean?" Gael leaned forward, folding his hands while resting his elbows on his knees.

Jace didn't respond and Ariya wondered what he was thinking after hearing Gael's question. As he looked down to meet her gaze, realization struck him like the heat of the sun's rays on his cold skin.

After tonight and the act they shared, Jace knew his immortal days had been changed forever.

# Chapter 8

That evening, the Ashen Twilight House was abuzz with music and guests enjoying the night. Jace waited for the front doors to open before stepping inside. Right away he recognized the familiar faces greeting him with pats on his back and warm words welcoming him back to life—at least the Nightwalker's version of it. Another face caught his eye. Vex. His smile disappeared the moment he saw Jace.

_Perhaps one day you'll forgive me, big guy._ Either way, Jace was thankful that Vex showed up to help defeat the elemental. Even though he didn't remember his face in the crowd, he still felt the Lycan's presence.

Jace turned to look over his shoulder as he felt a hand tap him.

"Don't mind him," Rich said, stepping over to join Jace at his side. "He'll come around. Eventually."

"Perhaps it'll take another century or so?"

Rich chuckled. "Not quite. Shelly just meant a lot to him."

"You know, for the first time in my life that I can actually recall—I know exactly how that feels."

Rich patted Jace's shoulder. "Where is Ariya, anyway? I figured you'd bring her tonight to celebrate with us."

"Actually, I didn't come for a celebration. I needed to talk to Julian."

Rich's pleasant expression disappeared as he nodded. "Sounds serious. Well, he's still upstairs if you wish to see him. I think he may be in the conference room."

Jace smiled and nodded. "Thanks." He gave his friend a parting wink and friendly pat on the back before heading to the staircase. Better to get the tongue lashing over and done with so he can return back home to Ariya. When he left, she was resting comfortably in his bed. The long hours and the fight had taken a lot out of her and he was thankful that she had at least gotten over her discomfort lying in his bed. A small ache tugged at his stomach as he thought of her sleeping there, legs curled up to her chest with her head resting on her crossed arms. He had resisted the urge to hold her, knowing that their time was short and he didn't want to spend it dreading the meeting with Julian.

He climbed the stairs lined with an elegant oriental rug setting off the gold and brown trimmings of the walls and staircase. Turning his head, he caught sight of Daoine down the hall embracing a graceful, timid woman. Long raven hair fell down her back, complementing soft yet prominent features and a warm tan complexion. At the other end of the hall, Michael towered over a woman with curly brown hair and bright golden eyes who spoke with animated gestures. Jace bit back his smile. Her confidence, strength and toughness matched Michael's and he looked more than eager to rise to her challenge. A bit further down the hall, Gael was leaning toward a youthful looking woman who giggled as he whispered gently into her ear.

Jace entered the conference room to find Julian standing with his back to the door. A beautiful, pale, shapely woman wearing a black halter dress sat on his desk stretching out her arm. Julian caressed the smooth skin of her arm, using only two fingers as he made his way down to her forearm. He took her hand and lifted it to his lips, kissing it softly. The glint of the crackling fire reflected on the rapier he lifted in his other hand. With a flick of his wrist, he brought down the knife. Blood flowed freely from her arm like thick, dark syrup. He caught the liquid with a shiny, elegant looking crystal glass. After his glass was filled, Julian lifted her dripping arm to his lips and licked away the blood.

"Thank you," Julian said. He reached into his suit jacket pocket to retrieve a handkerchief which he wrapped around the wound. "We'll continue this in a few."

He capped his words off with another kiss before she slid off the desk.

The woman walked by Jace as she headed for the door, flashing him a knowing smile. He narrowed his gaze on her. Wait a minute. He remembered her. One of the many nights the Ashen Twilight House threw their parties, he and Julian had shared her. She offered herself to them and they both fed simultaneously upon her body. It was one of the few times Jace felt close to his Uncle in recent memory. Now it'd be half past never before they ever do anything like that again since Ariya came into his life.

Jace forced his mind back to the present as he turned to Julian. His Uncle stood with one hand in his jacket pocket and the other lifting the glass to his lips. He stared into the crackling fireplace, never moving or acknowledging Jace's presence. If it were any other Nightwalker, Jace would have tapped into his thoughts. But this wasn't just any other Nightwalker. It was his Uncle, the man he respected and feared the most in his life. The last time he tried such an act, he ended up with a few weeks worth of a headache that nearly split his skull.

He won't make the same mistake anytime soon.

Jace stepped forward, opening his mouth as he began to speak.

"I thought that was you driving up a few moments ago," Julian said, beating Jace before he could form a word.

Jace exhaled a short breath and stopped himself before shaking his head. Always the first word in and the last word out. "I needed to see you before the night was over."

Julian turned to face him. "Oh?"

"How are your powers? You looked like you took quite a hit back there."

"Strengthened." Julian sighed softly. "Once we absorbed the elemental we all felt strangely energized. Though to fully understand our newfound capabilities, we must wait and."

Jace nodded slowly.

"But...I have a feeling that is not why you came this evening."

"You are correct."

Julian raised the now half-empty glass to his lips. He took a small sip as his curious gaze remained on Jace.

"The elemental killed Shelly," Jace finally said.

"I realize that now."

"Why didn't you trust Ariya?"

"I never said I didn't trust her, Jace. It is my duty as one of the Patriarchs to keep us all safe and remain cautious. Plus, she is Fae, is she not?"

"She is."

"Ah. Purveyors of the elements themselves."

Jace swallowed deeply, trying to keep himself from lashing out. "And me? What was my excuse?"

"You were mentioned and you housed her. I had to make sure you were clear."

"What would you have done if it was me?"

"I would have taken care of it for us," Julian said without skipping a beat.

Jace nodded, fully understanding his uncle's words. No matter how close the Ashen Twilight House was, the House of Blood would always look out for their own, especially as long as the Archanes ruled. He approached his Uncle, joining him at his side.

The hot embers from the fireplace warmed Jace's cold skin, reminding him of the brush with death he almost embraced that evening if it weren't for one special young woman.

"What if I were to take Ariya as my betrothed?" Jace asked.

Julian took another thoughtful sip from his glass. "You're free to love who you wish," he said smoothly.

"Not just love. I'm speaking as Regent of the House of Blood. What if I want Ariya by my side as I rule here as an officer?"

"Jace, we know nothing of her. She has only recently come in contact with us and nearly killed you in the process."

"She saved me, Uncle," Jace said sternly. "The creature that almost took her life nearly killed us both."

"She is not of our kind! She doesn't belong here!"

"Says who?"

Julian exhaled deeply. He crossed the room to his desk, setting his glass down with a loud clank. He leaned over it, placing his hands on the sleek wood.

"She is not one of us, Jace. She doesn't understand the choices and the lifestyles we must make to live each day within the shadows of mortals."

"She would understand if you only gave her a chance," Jace said, feeling his jaw tense with each word. He refused to let Julian talk him out of this. Something deep down made him push forward no matter what. "Each of us has a burden to bear in our new lives right, Julian? And I bear my own burden in killing everyone I feed on. Until Ariya came along. Without her, I wouldn't have known that. Although I can defy the clutches of death, I don't have to be consumed by it. I don't have to succumb to the helplessness in realizing such darkness has the power to take everyone I care about. More importantly, I wouldn't have known what you went through back there with Aunt Marie. I am sorry, Uncle."

Julian turned to face him. His usual calm demeanor had changed into an expression of surprise. He put his hands on the young Nightwalker's shoulders and gripped him tightly. "Jace, the reason I let my wife and child go was because I feared for their safety. I didn't know how my new life would affect them or what would have happened if others found out. Our lifestyle and how we choose to live it does not threaten mortals despite what their books say. This world is a small place as is. They won't understand us. Even if Ariya is an immortal, she doesn't know how we must live. Jace, this house started with a mission. We have our lives and she has hers."

"And your life? Do you ever regret having your mortal life taken from you, Uncle?" Jace asked, lowering his voice slightly. "Without your consent or understanding?"

Julian stared ahead deep in thought, perhaps returning to the time so long ago. His face darkened in the memory.

Jace sensed a hint of regret wash over him before it faded away.

"Once, I did feel regret," Julian said. "Now, I look at what we have accomplished here. The Ashen Twilight House was built to help the Nightwalkers, Lycans and Shifter-Elves who didn't know what they were, why they became that way or how to live their lives. For that, I am grateful."

Jace's mouth twitched into a half-smile. "You always said to make no apologies for who we are."

"And I mean that. Though sometimes you have to understand when that extends to the people you care about as well."

Jace shrugged out of his Uncle's grip and headed for the door. "I need to get back to Ariya."

"Have you thought about my earlier proposal?" Julian asked.

The younger Nightwalker turned to face his Uncle once again. "I'm ready to take my place at your side as Regent of this house."

"Are you sure you want the responsibility?"

Jace nodded. "I do. And I want Ariya with me."

"Jace, you know I can't. She is Fae!"

"Yet not Sìdhichean, Uncle."

"And you know this how? You know for sure she does not share the traits and connection to the Sìdhichean in any way that may bring harm to us? They are malicious creatures, not playful little creatures like the Fae. We must be cautious. Who knows what powers she carries—"

"You _know_ what powers she carries. You felt that elemental when you and the other Patriarch's absorbed it. The Aziza power was there."

"And still it is a power we cannot comprehend."

"Did it feel malicious?"

"Jace—"

"Answer me, Uncle. Please."

Julian pushed his glass away and stood upright. He buttoned his suit jacket as he started toward the door. "I won't stand here and play silly games."

"Don't be like me, Uncle! Don't shut yourself off from anything positive that can come into our lives. Especially your own."

Julian froze at the door.

Jace wondered what he could do to get through to the old man. "All right, then. If I made her one of us—will that make a difference? Would that satisfy your suspicions?"

The silence following his question was deafening as his own words echoed in his mind. It took Jace a moment to fully realize what he was proposing.

Julian shook his head. "You have never made a Nightwalker before. You haven't the experience."

"Well, I guess some things can always be learned, can't they Uncle?" Jace didn't wait for an answer as he turned toward the door and left Julian alone once again.

****

An hour later, Jace stepped into his apartment and gently closed the door behind him. He wasn't exactly in the partying mood especially after his little meeting. Right now he just wanted to spend some time with Ariya and ask the question that had been swimming around in his mind since he left the Ashen Twilight House. He removed his jacket and tossed it on the couch before continuing to the bedroom. Ariya still lay peacefully on the bed with one arm tucked behind her head and the other over her stomach. Instead of the corset and jeans from earlier that evening, she wore the soft, feathery dress from the first day she arrived. _After she had crossed realms._

He stood watching her in silence for a few moments, taking in the comforting view and feel of her. He could get used to this. Ariya waking up in his bed, preferably in his arms, as they grew closer to one another as the days wore on. Perhaps she could get comfortable with him as well.

Ariya moaned softly before awakening. She turned and gazed at him with a smile lighting up her face.

"You're awake," he said, sitting down on the edge of the bed. "I thought you'd be resting."

She shrugged. "I guess I still feel a little restless. It was a big night."

"That it was."

Ariya looked away from him for a moment, her smile disappearing before she met his gaze again. "Jace...I have to return home. I need to see if my people are well."

Jace crossed the room and moved over to the bed in mere seconds. "I'm sure they are."

She sat up and placed her palm against his cheek, pulling him closer to her. "I don't know if anyone is still alive—I..." Her lips trembled before she swallowed. "I don't know if there's anyone around."

Jace hated seeing her uneasy. Their time was growing short and he knew she had to go. For now, he would try to lift her burdens and relax her.

"Here." Jace stood and held his hand out to her.

For a moment, she stared at his open palms before finally taking his hands.

"My life changed dramatically after my mother died from the plague," he said, leading her to the other side of the room. "After Julian was turned, he met Daoine who joined us in our home in Inverness, Scotland. The three of us became a new family together throughout the centuries. Lovers came and went, but our family remained and grew even stronger within the Ashen Twilight House."

Ariya looked up and noticed the sword on his wall where he had led her. "Is this from those times?"

He smiled. "It is. A gift from Julian before our war with Romania." He reached over to the sword and gently pulled it up from its clamps. He gripped the hilt with one hand while he gently caressed the cold, hard blade with his other fingers.

"What do the symbols mean?"

"I'm glad you ask that question because that is why I wanted to show it to you. The symbols on the top represent Scotland, my home, and the Archane coat of arms. The inscription—" Jace's tongue rolled eloquently in the native language before he translated aloud. " _Na sir's na seachainn an cath._ Neither seek nor shun the fight."

"Beautiful language."

"It's Scots Gaelic. A dying language from my time, The English outlawed it when they also outlawed tartans and weapons. The reason I have this is to remind myself not to look for trouble. Although if a fight shall occur, I won't back down from engaging it and defending my honor or that of my loved ones."

" _Nunya, adidoe, asi metunee o_."

Jace smiled at the words slipping from Ariya's lips. He chuckled softly. "And what does that mean?"

"Wisdom is like a baobab tree; no one individual can embrace it," she gave a small laugh. "It's an old Aziza proverb. I appreciate what you are saying, Jace. I just can't lay my responsibilities aside. Now that the elemental is dead, I belong back in the Aziza realm. There are people who still need me."

Jace set the sword down on the antique dresser and pulled Ariya into his arms. A soft breath escaped her before he leaned in, their mouths dangerously close to one another. "What if you are needed here?"

Her brow furrowed and he already knew she was ready to protest. "Jace, I—"

"Ariya, I want you to know that I have never felt as close to anyone before as I do now. I want you to be happy. And if you chose to return home I will respect your wishes."

She exhaled softly as his words lingered in the silence that followed.

"I have to admit," he continued, "I've gotten quite accustomed to having you here with me. And I would miss your presence if you did leave. It's been so long since I felt this way toward another."

She smiled in response to his words and he leaned down to gently kiss her on the corners of her mouth. He felt her heart quicken as he drew near.

Jace held her tighter within his arms, fighting back the urge to ask the questions in his mind. What if he were to change her? How would she react? It was already a big step for him to admit how she made him feel. Part of him was still guarded as he continued to tread lightly in this new emotional territory. In the coming days, perhaps he would ask her to become a creature of the night like him.

As he kissed her, Jace felt a rush like never before. This feeling never came with Shelly or any of the women he had shared his body or his bed with throughout the centuries. Ariya had changed something in him and although he didn't know what, he was sure of one thing; there was no way she could leave his life now. He didn't care what Julian or the Ashen Twilight House thought of them together.

"You spoke with your Uncle tonight?" she asked softly once the kiss broke.

"Yes, I did," Jace whispered against her lips.

*

Sadness clouded her eyes and she looked away from him. He didn't have to say the words. She already knew from the tenseness of his jaw that Julian wasn't too happy about them. Perhaps he even had some choice words to say about Jace feeding upon her. "He doesn't accept me."

Jace cradled her face in his palms. "It doesn't matter what he thinks."

He pulled her in for a kiss and she willingly fell into his arms. A jumble of words crowded Jace's mind before he cleared it. Part of her was afraid to ask what he meant by changing her into a walker of the night like him. What if he did? What would happen to her body and her reaction to the simple change of living during the darkness of night instead of the bright, beautiful day? She didn't even know how her Aziza Fairy blood would react to this so-called change or if she would survive it. How would he even make this happen? She broke the kiss and turned away as more questions cornered her mind.

"Don't think of that now, _gradh_ ," Jace said caressing her cheek, his words slurred with sleepy haze. "There's always time later."

He turned to the dresser and reached over the sword for what looked like a ring. Then he opened the top drawer and retrieved something from within the folds of shirts. Once Ariya saw the items in his hand, a jagged inhale escaped her lips. Two silver rings sat in his open palm, each with two hands clasped around a heart with a gold crown adorning the design.

"This is a Claddagh design with very old roots in the Celtic history," Jace explained, grabbing one to hold up for example. "I acquired it long ago after the Ottoman wars when I planned to marry."

"And did you?"

Jace shook his head. His gaze remained on the rings he held. "No. I never had the chance." He closed his hand and started toward the bed.

Night was drawing to an end. Ariya didn't have to check the time to know that early morning had arrived. Jace had fought to stay awake, but now as he lay on the bed with his shirt splayed open to his pale muscled chest, sleep had struggled to claim him.

Ariya snuggled up next to him and rested on his chest. She felt the slight tug of his fingers as he gently caressed her thick, dark curly hair. "Tell me about them," she said softly. "The rings."

"Well, when worn as a ring it's supposed to symbolize friendship and love, depending on the finger and on what hand. My mother told me of this old Scottish woman she met as a girl. The old woman had a ring molded into rock solid metal with a design just like this." He set one ring down on his chest and held up the other. "She told my mother of a legend where a young goldsmith gave the ring to his beloved as a token of his love. He promised right then and there to marry her in the coming days."

"What happened?"

"The young goldsmith was kidnapped and taken aboard a pirate ship. His beloved didn't hear from him for days, but she refused to believe he would leave or that something happened to him. She waited five whole years and in that time he was able to escape and make enough money to live on when they were reunited. Finally, he returned to her to carry out his promise of marrying her."

"How did he know they would meet again?"

Jace shrugged slightly. "He just knew. That was the main thing keeping him going all those years of work. That and his promise to return to her."

Ariya chuckled. "Is this a true story?"

"So my mother told me. The old woman showed her the ring right before she confessed to being the goldsmith's love."

Ariya gently ran her fingertips over Jace's chest. She felt him tilt his head toward her as his lips curved into a smile against the crown of her head.

"This one is the same ring the old woman gave my mother who then gave it to me. She made me promise to keep it as a reminder that there is love in this world. But I had seen so much death and darkness that I almost forgot. That's why I had it hidden away."

He grabbed her hand and lifted it to his lips. Gently he kissed it before slipping the ring on her right finger with the heart pointing toward her. "Traditionally, there are three ways of wearing the Claddagh ring to show one's relationship status. If worn like this, it tells others that you are romantically involved."

Ariya immediately sat up. "Jace, I can't take this."

"Why not? I choose to give it to who I wish, Ariya. And I want you have it. I want you to remain my betrothed."

She reached over to cup his cheek. Warm hand. Cold skin.

"Stay, Ariya. Just a little while longer."

"Morning is coming," Ariya said as she looked at the clock.

"So we will speak of this more tomorrow eve." He slipped the other ring on his finger. The burden of the night's battle weighed down on him as he shifted into a comfortable position on the bed and urged her to lie back down on his chest. Morning was definitely on its way as the mimic of death fell upon Jace's body.

Ariya felt the twinge of sadness pull at her. She didn't belong here, but Jace was welcoming her with open arms and heart. Neither one of them had loved like this before. She didn't want to let him go, but the pull of her kingdom was too much to ignore. There was more than her life at stake now.

Turning back to face Jace, she saw his eyes close as he held onto her. She didn't know how much time was left until sleep finally claimed him. No matter. She vowed right then and there to a promise she was not afraid to voice aloud.

"I'll be back, Jace. No matter how long it takes or however long I am kept away. I will return to you."

****

Avery walked along the empty desert landscape where the preternatural skirmish had taken place. He waited until the police finally left before he examined the area where the elemental was eliminated. His group of Shifters cornered the surroundings, their senses keen on anything that seemed out of place. A dark spot indented on the ground in the shape of a figure caught his eye.

"Close," he said softly. "Yet so far." He reached into his coat pocket to retrieve his cell phone and immediately dialed a number.

A single ring sounded over the line before someone picked up. "Avery," the deep voice said. "Good news?"

"Yeah, dad. Looks like they succeeded in vanquishing it."

"No sign of it anywhere?"

Avery shook his head as he gazed around the dark empty lot. "None. I had to wait until those mortal cops left. They didn't see anything, but I can tell they were here."

A deep laugh spread across the line.

"You must be thinking what I'm thinking," Avery said with a sly smile.

"Of course. Round two."

"I'll work on getting the Fairy. Meanwhile, you can go ahead and get the preparations ready. This won't take long at all." Avery hung up the phone. "Let's move out!" He gestured for his men to return to their vehicles. Mentally he prepared for the Fairy hunt ahead. This time, he wasn't giving up until his family obtained the power they so rightly deserved.

****

Ariya awoke hours later. Her warm body shivered as Jace's cold skin touched hers. Through her sleepy haze, she yawned and sat up, gazing at Jace. His pale chest was a comfort she already missed. What time was it? She must have fallen asleep shortly after watching him doze off. She didn't want to leave, but she recognized the peaceful look that spread across his face and knew he wouldn't be awake until night. For now, his body was dead; complete with the cold, steel tenor of everything death embodied yet absent of the rotting aftermath. Slowly she slipped out from under him and reached her outstretched toes to the ground.

She didn't think about taking the clothes that Jace left for her. They belonged to him. For now, she needed to get home before giving in to the comfort of Jace's warm, soft bed.

As she stopped at the edge of the door, Ariya turned to take one last look at him. She burned the image in her mind and would take it out when she needed a reminder of the protection and care he had given to her. Soon she would return to continue where they left off. His bare chest remained still with not a breath passing into his lungs. His handsome, youthful face was blank, surrendered in a temporary death.

Then she remembered something. Lifting her hand, she saw and then felt the snug comfort of the Claddagh ring hugging her ring finger. That's right. He had slipped it on her before they fell asleep.

I choose to give it to who I wish, Ariya. And I want you have it. I want you to remain my betrothed.

A sly smile crossed her lips as she caressed the smooth band with the engraving of cupped hands holding a crowned heart. It was beautiful beyond words. Not only in the thoughtful care it had taken to make the design, but also of the sentimental story behind it. Still, she couldn't accept it. As much as she wanted to lose herself in Jace's embrace for the rest of her days, she had to go.

Ariya closed her eyes and replayed all the moments Jace held her and looked upon her with passion and care. The feel of his body and touch ignited something within her as he fed. Intoxicating. It was a feeling she had never experienced or read before in any text during her studies. She pursed her lips together. Jace would understand her reasons for leaving.

Slowly she slipped the ring off her finger and placed it gently on the dresser. She ignored the sting in her heart as she took one final look at Jace.

With every ounce of strength in her heart, Ariya forced herself to continue through the door. Her black buckled boots sat near the front door waiting for her. She quickly stepped in and strapped them on before buckling up. Then, she finally took her leave.

Outside, the fiery horizon blazed a warm orange tint amongst the chocolate mountain hilltops surrounding the city. The air was still and, thankfully, pretty mild for this time of year. Later on in the afternoon, the temperatures would grow a little warmer.

Ariya walked along the quiet residential area thankful for the sparse amounts of cars rushing back and forth on the adjacent streets nearby. Looking around, she made sure no one spotted her as she readied herself to cross back into her own realm. In moments, she would be home and all her questions would be answered.

****

Jace flashed his eyes open and sucked in a large gulp of air. His heart beat rapidly before it stilled to silence between his ears. He was alive once again. The familiar surroundings that made up his room put him at ease.

A flash of cold air brushed past his face. What the—

He jumped to his feet and rushed to the bedroom door, grabbing the frame as he leaned forward to gaze ahead. He could check every inch of this space, but he knew she was already gone. The bareness of the apartment—once a comfort and testament to his ability to want for nothing—now mocked him. It was too spacious now and emptiness filled the room. As he turned back to his bed, a glint of light caught his eye from the dresser. Turning, he saw it. The Claddagh ring—the very same one he had slipped on her finger before they fell asleep was now left on his dresser with the other collectibles.

Every muscle in his body tensed. His stomach jolted with bile that crept up to this throat and he had to swallow a few times to push it down. Why did she not take his gift? It was a promise that he had made to no other woman in his life but Ariya—and she threw it back at him without another word. Not even a note to explain her absence!

Jace tried to calm down, though nothing would stop the fire within his chest. He yanked the ring off his finger and hurled it against the wall, thankful for the loud clank it made upon impact. It was a small comfort though nothing would fully calm his nerves.

He tried to reason with himself that everything would be okay. In fact, now he could resume his work and continue facing his duties at the Ashen Twilight House. He could freely feed on whoever he chose and not feel guilty that every woman thereafter would die after he had his fill. There were no strings attached now. She had returned to her world and he could now return to his.

The fantasy life was over.

He scoffed. _Easier said than done, pal_. He wanted her to come back. No, he _hoped_ she would.

The question was, would she?

A shudder rippled throughout his body at the question. Dry air filled his throat and his body thirsted. He turned, welcoming the rush of open-air crashing against his bare chest as he stormed into the kitchen. His blood had nearly depleted in his rest and his skin was cold from the lack of feeding before he laid down. He grabbed a glass from the cupboard and brought it down, expecting a mere _clanking_ sound as he set it on the cold granite countertop. Instead, the glass shattered upon impact and burst into tiny shards in his hand.

Jace stifled a curse. He had to be more careful. _Calm down_. He grabbed another glass and held it this time as he grabbed a bottle of blood from the fridge and poured it.

A quick gulp barely filled his thirst and didn't even make an impact on his burning desire. Bottled blood rarely did on most occasions. He closed his eyes as he felt the effects of the liquid flowing through his system. His heart began to beat again in slow, weak pumps. For a moment he felt like a mortal man. His body warmed and the sound of his own heartbeat ignited within him before it slowly died down to silence.

Jace slipped his shirt off and tossed it to the floor, not caring where it landed. He grabbed his glass again and stepped into the living room. It took only seconds to drain the glass and when he was done, he set it down on the coffee table. Then he dropped to the floor to do push-ups. Anything to distract his body from the feel of his heart being ripped out of his chest.

His muscles contracted and pulsed with each breath he pushed out. The sweat was already growing at his temples. He had to get rid of this emptiness—this desire. He never felt connected to anyone before. To feel that would be a weakness, an intangible vulnerability. Julian was already a victim of it and he refused to be one, too.

Jace gritted his teeth as he pushed off the floor. Before he completely removed Ariya from his thoughts, there was one thing left to do. He tried to slow down his breathing as he retrieved his paint brushes and canvas from the coat closet. With every passion that cornered his body, he painted through the early hours of the night and didn't stop until fatigue and gravity welcomed him back into their warm embrace.

# Chapter 9

Ariya walked across the vast lands of the Aziza forest, taking in the ruins that had been left behind. It felt different now. The forest where she used to play as a child when she took breaks from her studies had now become a distant fantasy land in her memory. The bright shining sun suspended amidst the azure blue sky. It was a distinct contrast to the night...her new home. Through the dark brown towering stalks of trees, she saw the aftermath of the fire that tore down her family's palace. Broken shards of crystal and crushed stone formed a towering pile in the middle of the open meadow. A few of her guards and ladies-and-waiting stood nearby, but there was no sign of her family.

"Lady Ariya." Cidra's expression brightened upon meeting her gaze. At the sound of Ariya's name, the armed female guards held their spears high. Right away they fell to their knees amidst a sea of murmurs and bowed their heads.

Cidra raced over to her, holding her sphere at her side. "The plan. It worked! What happened in the other realm? Did the hunters see you? Oh, by the servants of Mawu-Lisa, I'm so glad you made it out safely."

Ariya couldn't muster the strength to move before she felt Cidra pull her close into a tight hug. Her gaze still remained on the crowd before her.

"Cidra, what is this?"

The tall warrior woman followed Ariya's gaze.

"Don't you understand, Ariya? You passed the test. You lived to evade and fight this elemental being. Your mother and father were right about your birthright. You—are the rightful Queen of the Aziza." Cidra swallowed deeply. Her eyes grew watery. "They would have been so proud and relieved to see you."

Ariya nearly lost her breath as turned to the people of her town. Her people. There were many more cities out there; some much bigger than this one where she had lived her whole life. And they would all look up to her as their Queen. Her heart swelled with memories of her parents rushing back to her.

A woman stepped forward cradling a small newborn baby in her arms. Her smile was wide and warm as she lifted the girl to Ariya. "My Queen," she bowed gracefully, "this child was born to me days after the death of your mother. A baby girl."

"And this baby boy was born to me," another woman stepped forward, lifting her child up.

Ariya remembered the customs of their people and what the gestures meant within the Aziza culture. Her father and mother didn't make it, but their spirits had returned and were reborn in the children before her.

Feeling her knees weaken, she reached out to hold onto Cidra.

Cidra wrapped an arm around her, giving her strength to Ariya. "Be careful, m'lady." Her brown, heart-shaped face drained as she slowly shook her head. "I'm sorry."

Ariya felt the tears welling up within her. She couldn't break now. Not after all she had been through. Not when she now held the future of her people in her hands.

Gathering herself, Ariya took a breath and then leaned over to place a soft kiss on each of the baby's foreheads. Gently they cooed and smiled as their recognition of her sparkled in their small, dark eyes.

"Please," Ariya said, lowering her voice as she leaned toward Cidra. "Take me home."

The palace was in complete ruin when they came upon it. Sparkling marble mixed with gold, sand, and wood to form the mountain of debris among the green grass.

"We left it for you," Cidra said, her eyes roaming across the crushed structure. "We didn't want to move anything until we were sure you were coming back. The other structures have already been rebuilt months ago."

"Months ago," Ariya repeated softly. In the mortal realm, days had passed since she showed up near that alleyway. In the Aziza Fairy realm, months had zoomed by. How could she have forgotten?

"Cidra, I'd like to rebuild our home. This time, it will stand in my family's honor."

"Shall I seek assistance for the task?"

Ariya focused her gaze on the crumbled entrance and started toward it. "Please do. And send word to the other provinces that I will personally see to the reconstruction of any other lands that were destroyed in the Elemental's path."

"Right away, m'lady," Cidra said before rushing off.

Ariya turned and froze. The people of her lands had followed her and now stood as one surrounding the once proud palace. The warriors had descended to their knees in a bow while the others followed suit or kneeled to one knee. She gestured for them to stand.

The shuffle of movement broke through the calm air as the crowd stood before her. Ariya looked at each of them, their proud mahogany faces reflected generations, young and old. People she had known since she was young and those she welcomed into the world all looked to her for guidance now. A sense of pride and honor coursed through her body and she couldn't help shedding a tear.

"All of you helped my mother and father when they were alive," she said, extending her voice across the land. "When we were in danger, you were there to protect me from the vicious elemental creature. For that, I am forever in debt to you."

Slowly she bowed her head and descended to her knees. Murmurs fell throughout the air followed by a sea of claps and cheers with her name on their lips. Immediately they surrounded her with hugs, warmth and promises to help rebuild the broken palace.

After the crowd disbanded and everyone left to their respective duties, Ariya lifted her hand and opened her palm toward the heap of debris. Mustering the energy deep within her body, she commanded the pile of broken shards to her will, lifting them from the ground.

An exhale of relief escaped her. It was still here! Despite the destruction, her beloved library still stood beneath the large chasm. The golden staircase that lead down was still untouched by the Elemental's attack. Shards of glass and stone decorated the floor, crunching under her steps as she started downward. A rain of the debris floated up and all around her, clearing the way for her entrance. She descended the spiral staircase and looked around.

Books still aligned the walls untouched in the past few months. One particular book stood out to her on the table at the opposite end of the room. Aged brown leather with a braided gold emblem drew her attention. She remembered this book. It was the same her mother was reading that one evening she couldn't sleep.

Ariya scooped the thick leather-bound text in her hands and ran her fingertips over the gold lined edges. Then she turned it around. Looking down, she noticed a piece of paper had fallen out and onto the ground. It was textured in her hand, soft like rice paper. Setting the book down, she analyzed it and right away recognized the small image of her family tree rendered in ink. She was at the bottom, the last remaining branch and the only one circled. Next to her name was a sentence; the last Aziza with the Power of all the Fae.

Her body shuddered as she read the sentence over and over again in her mind. _The Power of all the Fae._ She heard stories of how their ancestors used such power to call upon the elements to move and do their bidding. Like her parents, she could already fly and held the gift of second sight. The mortals called the Aziza to assist with their hunts to calm their prey and usher them into the afterlife. _Everything happens for a reason_ , her father had once said. What if this elemental had come for a reason?

They had toyed with such power at times, thinking it was a fluke of nature. Now all of her parent's teachings had come together. They brought her up to hone her craft and now was the perfect time to start working it.

Ariya picked up the book again. The symbols were familiar. Straight from the ancient Aziza language she learned growing up. _The Book of the Elders_. She flipped to the section where a red ribbon marked the spot. " _Elementals of Nature_ " was written in script near the top of the page. A relief of wind, fire, water and Earth was illustrated over the opening heading that described what an elemental was.

Ariya's heart raced within in her chest as she read. Someone had indeed summoned the elemental which could integrate itself into anything ordered by its master. Most importantly, it had the ability to absorb the energy, life force, and powers of those it consumed.

She looked up and stuck her thumb between the pages to keep her place. If this were true, who summoned the elemental? Who wanted her family and friends killed just to absorb their power?

****

" _It was like a ginormous rush of wind. Like a freakin' tornado shot through town but it wasn't even up and down, you know what I'm sayin'? Like side to side and wavy. This thing had a mind of its own."_

" _Would you call it a UFO, sir?"_

" _Nah, it was a wind, man."_

" _And there you have it. Breaking news tonight of a violent windstorm—"_

" _No man! I said 'wind'! Like whoosh Dorothy, Wizard of Oz. Crap like that."_

" _Breaking news tonight of a wind last seen over the skies of Phoenix tonight near Tatum and the 101 Freeway. We'll keep a close eye on this news story for you. Back to you Reg."_

" _And speaking of winds, clear skies tonight in the Valley—"_

Jace flipped off the television, silencing the room except for Rich's snorting. "What?"

Rich pushed off the conference table, unfolding his arms as he walked over to the large flat-screen television embedded in the wall. "A wind."

"Well, if that's all they can say about it, then I'm glad. Thankfully no one caught it on camera or else we'd have a lot more tracks to cover."

Rich waved him away. "Aw come on, Jace. You and I both know cameras do nothing. So called paranormal phenomena has always been caught on tape from UFOs to Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster."

"Hey, don't even joke about Loch Ness, man. That thing used to freak me out as a kid. And the fact that some bonehead decided to call it 'Nessie' doesn't lessen its twisted nature."

"Och, I forgot laddie," Rich said in a flimsy Scottish accent. "Ye were taint'd by the Loch as a wee bairn."

"And I'll never forget how that head popped out of the water and looked right at me." Jace shuddered and shook his head.

"Yeah, right. Well, I stand by my point. Mortals have been claiming phenomena for ages. As long as the media keeps everyone thinking these types are conspiracy nuts, I'm a happy Lycan."

Jace crossed the room to light the fireplace. "An ignorant world is a happy world, I guess. I'm just glad to see that infection has died. They're trying to say some bogus cure did the trick From what Julian noticed, the virus disappeared with the elemental."

"Don't tell the mortal docs that. Their magic pill trade will run dry. Hopefully the side effects are limited."

Jace chuckled. "Any other word on the situation?" He flicked the knob on the side mantle and watched the fire roar to life.

Rich shook his head. "Just the usual. Uncle Michael was amused that the news media was trying to keep it all quiet." He lifted his hands. "Mysterious, incurable disease cured! News at eleven."

"Just as well. Better that than the truth."

"I suppose." Rich sighed and wandered over to the conference table to lean against it. "Man, I miss the forest. You know in the old days before all these buildings and infrastructures, there used to be open forest and no neighbors for miles on end. I used to run for ages with the cold night air on my face and the smell of woods and Earth around me. Exhilarating."

Jace chuckled. "I'll take your word for it. You know, vampires are actually getting popular again."

"Oh, man. Here we go."

"What?"

"The elegant angst of the immortal Nightwalkers and how they mix the pleasure of blood, death, and sex. _Please_. Answering the call of the wild and being in touch with the beast within. Now that's where it's at. Or should be."

Jace frowned. "Well, you have to admit it's better than being chased through the forest, tortured, castrated and ripped apart, I'll tell you that."

"Don't remind me," Rich said, shaking his head. He peered over at Jace, watching as his friend stared into the crackling fire deep in thought. "You miss her, don't you?"

Jace's gaze shot to Rich. "I'm sorry I must have missed the correlation between torture and—the Faerie."

"Ah, the spiral of emotions from missing that special someone is torture within itself, my friend. 'Fess up and stop acting like we just met. For the past few days, you've been trying harder than usual to go gung-ho with your old lifestyle."

"I think about her, yes," Jace said with a huff. "But that was in the past."

"And you don't think she's coming back?"

Jace shook his head. "I don't think she'll be back anytime soon. No."

Rich raised an eyebrow. "And how do you feel about that?"

"I—" Jace took a breath, choosing his words carefully. "What's in the past is in the past."

"Oh, I've heard that one before." A deep voice entered the room moments before Gael stepped in wearing a charcoal gray suit over a crisp white shirt. The men greeted each other with a nod.

"Julian and the others are on their way up, you'd be happy to know." Gael turned to Jace, then to Rich. "And I, for one, can tell you this man is lying."

Rich threw his head back with laughter. "Didn't have to be a psychic to know that one, my friend."

"It's not like there's any way to get in contact with her," Jace said. "Besides, how in the world can it possibly work? An Aziza Fae and a Nightwalker. How freakin' ridiculous does that sound?"

Gael and Rich looked at him with stone-faced expressions. Jace shifted under their gazes, unsure if he had something hanging out of his nose or if he forgot to zip up his fly. "What?"

"After all you've seen, you're seriously asking that question?" Gael walked to Jace and patted his shoulder. "There are always ways to a woman, Jace. Especially, if you want her bad enough."

"Yeah, well I'm beginning to think that Julian was right."

"Well, I'm glad someone is finally coming to his senses." Julian stepped into the conference room with Daoine and Michael behind him. Jace, Rich and Gael all stood with their postures erect as the elders walked toward the table.

"Words I thought Jace would never say," Michael snickered. He gestured for Rich to sit near him and Rich promptly walked over to his seat.

Julian walked over to Jace, who stood tall with his hands folded in front of him. "Does this mean that you are ready to take your place at this table?"

Jace looked around at all the men aligning the houses, both Regents and Patriarchs from one generation to the next. Something had changed in him since Ariya came into his life. He'd put his existence on the line more times than he could imagine and, although the idea of enjoying himself under the moonlit sky still appealed to him, the allure was not the same. Now he had a bigger responsibility to uphold. He nodded and took a seat next to Julian, who smiled with pride.

"Gentleman," Julian began. "Let this meeting of the Ashen Twilight House leaders come to order."

II

Blessed Union of Souls

# Chapter 10

Ariya slammed her palms against the silk bedspread and bolted upright. Her chest heaved as she stared into the darkness. It was the same dream for the fifth time this month. What did it mean? Echoes of the dream washed over her as she swung her feet to the ground and leaned over the side of the bed.

The cold night air brushed her skin.

Shivering...goosebumps.

She ran, but there was only darkness ahead and all around her.

Still, she kept running...

Running...

Running...

He was near. She had to get away.

Keep running...find somewhere to hide.

Something reached out and grabbed her. Its tendrils slithered around her waist, tightening like a boa constrictor.

It hurled her into the air.

Higher and higher.

Digging into her skin.

Ripping into her wings.

She tried to scream, but nothing came out.

The bright yellow sun rays poured across the sky, eradicating the dark.

A gunshot echoed in the distance and it freed her. Her body sailed down toward the bright green forest. The air slammed against her face and body as she freely fell down to her impending death.

Then she awoke.

Always at the same part, she awoke.

Perhaps it was a good thing. The thought of slamming into the ground at high impact didn't exactly paint a pleasant picture. Still, she couldn't help wondering why she was dreaming of the elemental when they had already destroyed it.

Ariya sighed and leaned forward into her hands. After so many nights of calm, peaceful sleep this dream—no _nightmare_ —came back.

Think pleasant thoughts...

Jace—

Was he well? Did he even hear her last words before falling into unconsciousness? Surely, he must have already found the ring. There was no way she could take the gift back now with so many questions left between them. As the days passed while she settled back into her life in the Aziza realm, Ariya couldn't help thinking about Jace. She wondered what he was doing this very moment. What went through his mind when he awoke and found her gone? Was he angry? Did he forget her?

She missed the warmth of his arms around her and his soothing voice. The look in his eyes as he pleaded with her to stay still haunted her. As time passed in the mortal realm, she hoped he would still think of her.

Days ago, the Aziza people held a ceremony to officially crown her as Queen. She felt uneasy taking such a position. After all, she had just come of age and the past several weeks were enough to force her into maturity faster than she had imagined.

Slowly she slid off the silken sheets and went to the terrace overlooking the palace town. The cold wind brushed against her, reminding her of the warm bed she was leaving behind. There was no way she could return to sleep now. Not with the nightmare and busy thoughts keeping her mind awake. It was times like this she wished for her family's presence.

If only she could return to her own bedroom knowing her parents were still alive.

If only Shya and Rhea were just a few feet away in their own rooms.

If only...

Ariya sighed. She would gladly give this all up in exchange for their warmth and love again.

Outside, the still night hung over the Aziza realm. Ariya leaned on the cold railing, gazing upward at the pale moon glowing high in the velvet sky. It would get better with time. Her mind knew it, but her heart struggled to find comfort in the thought.

The palace now stood as proud and tall as it had prior to the Elemental's attack. With the help of Cidra, the guards, and the Aziza of the surrounding lands, things were on their way back to normal. Her family plaque, a gold slate with their images carved in the metal, was etched in the stone above the front door.

Ariya rubbed her shoulders as she peered down over the dark forest grounds. A soft wind blew the trees, swaying them back and forth. Earlier that day, the rustling trees and stalks of grass whispered to her of what the elemental had done in its path of destruction. If the Elemental's master was still out there, none of them were safe. Whoever it was knew of the the Aziza's existence and would find them again.

Questions still cornered her mind. She struggled to push them away and calm down.

Jace...

The smell and feel of him. His charming smile and the gleam in his eye when he looked at her. Their last meeting had been a stark contrast to their first.

Strange how she felt more at home with him nearby, as if he were home itself. She knew the Aziza moon of _Aido-Hweda_ was not the same moon of the mortal realm overlooking the Ashen Twilight House. Was it nighttime in Phoenix? If so, would he be feeding on someone this very moment?

Deep down, she hoped he wasn't angry with her. Surely, he would understand her actions for leaving. Most of all, she hoped he missed her as she did him.

****

Jace walked along the quiet street with his hands stuffed in the pockets of his coat. He would have to return home later that evening. Class would start in a few hours, but first he needed to feed. His body pulsed with need. His routine had been the same for the past few weeks. Wandering the streets in search of an unsuspecting female to indulge in. Not since Shelly had he brought any women back to his home.

_No, scratch that_.

Not since Ariya...

The thought of Ariya sent an ache at the pit of his stomach. Who was he kidding? It wouldn't be right to have anyone else there.

He cursed himself for not moving on. Ariya had obviously forgotten about him since she left, or else she would have contacted him.

Jace gently shook his head to clear his thoughts.

Tonight wasn't about her. It was about him, and the task at hand. He had narrowed his feed to only certain women. Those who were near the end of their lives and were ready to give into the sweet rapture of death.

A distant howl broke out in the evening air.

Rich.

He was nearby hunting among the dark shadows in his true Lycan form. The big lug had been walking around with his mind in a daze for the past few weeks. Jace had no idea why and didn't want to pry into his best friend's business. It was probably some Lycan duties, anyway. Besides, Rich didn't seem eager to share what he was up to and Jace had a hard enough time trying to enter his thoughts. He probably cloaked his thoughts on purpose. No matter. Rich will talk to him when he was ready.

Jace leaned against the wall as he smelled someone approaching. Sweat, blood, and a rapid heartbeat claimed his senses, raising the hunger deep within. A tall, lithe figure came into his view. Hot, sensual blood pumped through her veins. Perfect. He would take her right now among the building's shadows. He would bring her to the edge and ecstasy of death as he consumed her blood. He waited, wanting the attack. Desiring it.

Jace held his breath, anticipating each step that grew louder and louder as she approached him.

Closer and closer she drew until...

Nothing.

He couldn't bring himself to indulge in this stranger.

Instead, he watched her like a predator would his prey until she disappeared around the corner and into the shadows of the night. With a sigh, he pushed off the wall and started walking back to his apartment. Tomorrow he would try again, but for now he would indulge in a cold glass from his fridge while he prepared the teaching guide for tonight's art lesson.

****

Upon dawn's light of morning, Ariya had changed into a thin, white silk dress. The dream had returned again later that night. This time, she saw the ancient battle mixed with a modern setting. Something was brewing back in the mortal realm concerning the Ashen Twilight House. She tried to tell herself that Jace and the other immortals would handle it. They would know what to do.

She paced the length of the room.

Then why did she have this nagging feeling that something was wrong?

The elemental book she'd found held knowledge that they weren't privy to yet. Perhaps she should warn them.

Now that things were settled in the Aziza realm, it was safe for her to return.

Ariya wiped her sweaty palms on her dress as she went to the door. She spotted a young Aziza chambermaid passing by with a stack of folded blankets in her arms.

"Ayana," Ariya called out. "Please find Cidra. I need to speak with her as soon as possible."

The maiden curtsied as her dark eyes grew wide. "Yes, my Queen. Right away." She scurried off, struggling to the hold onto the large pile in her hands.

Cidra would understand. Things would be well in the lands for now. Once she pinpointed the problem and took care of it, she would return to her duties. Perhaps not alone, if all went really well.

Moments later, Cidra climbed the stairs to the top where Ariya waited. "M'lady Ariya, you called?"

"Yes, Cidra. I am leaving for a while and I wanted you to keep an eye on things here in my absence."

Cidra's dark brown eyes widened in surprise. "May I ask for what reason?"

Ariya placed a gentle hand on her friend's arm and smiled. "Cidra, when we were children playing outside, do you remember when I couldn't control that tiger? I thought it was resisting my powers and I was afraid to move much less try to contain it."

Cidra's worried expression disappeared as she smiled with nostalgia. She nodded. "I do remember. I could not stop screaming and I thought I was going to die. You said not to worry. It was as if you received a sudden reassurance of life and power that overtook your senses—"

"And extended it to the beast," Ariya said. "Although I was frightened, I knew deep down that I could contain it if I tried hard enough."

"What are you saying, Ariya?"

"I'm saying I have a feeling some friends of mine may be in danger and I need to warn them. I want to leave our home and our realm in your care. I trust you to watch over it in my family's honor. I trust you with my life, Cidra."

Ariya pulled her friend in for a hug and held her tightly.

"When will you return?" Cidra asked, once they parted.

Ariya walked to the edge of the stairs and gazed down. She now felt as if she belonged to two realms. One held her past, her world, and her culture. The other held a possible future with a man she couldn't stop thinking about.

Without another thought, Ariya walked back to Cidra and pulled her in for one last hug. She would take their friendship and strength with her when she crossed over.

Cidra's question lingered in her mind as thoughts of Jace returned to her. "I can't say an exact time, but I will try soon."

With that, Ariya turned away and ran down the stairs. She didn't look back as she left the palace behind and entered the forest, hoping to find the answers to this mystery.

# Chapter 11

The blazing sun sat suspended in the sky when Ariya arrived back in Phoenix. Before she crossed into the mortal realm, she made sure her dress covered her wings well. Jace had told her they were living under the mortal's eyes and she didn't want to stand out any more than necessary.

Judging by her surroundings, she wasn't too from Jace's apartment. He wouldn't be awake for some time. Perhaps a stroll by the Ashen Twilight House would use up some time before nightfall.

The bright sun's rays peeked through the shadows of the trees. The downtown residential area was busy near the long stretch of road. Ariya was glad for the lack of cars and patrons on her street.

Soon the large Victorian house came into view, looming the smaller houses around it. The House of Blood was still at slumber. She looked up at the sky. Judging from the placement of the sun, it was likely late afternoon. Mortal children were probably on their way home which would mean Vex and Rich would be off work from their coaching jobs. She wondered how the House of Shifter Elves occupied their time.

As she crossed the street to the Ashen Twilight House, Ariya looked up and spotted a dark, shadowy figure standing on the terrace.

She squinted. A chill went through her once she realized who it was.

Julian!

She looked closer to make sure her eyes weren't deceiving her.

It _was_ Julian. Pale hands peeked out from the sleeves of his dark robe. The sun touched his skin, but he suffered no injuries. A look of pride and satisfaction crossed his strong, handsome face as he looked at the sky. A barrage of questions cornered her mind, starting with how and why. Nightwalkers shunned the sun for fear of being destroyed by it. How long had Julian possessed the ability to withstand the sun? Did Jace know?

Just then, as if feeling her presence, he looked down and stared right at her. The smile on his face disappeared as his expression grew blank.

Ariya didn't know what to say. She stood frozen as he turned and disappeared back into the house. She couldn't confront him. Not now.

Acting on instinct, she turned and fled from the preternatural house. Later she would ask Jace about what she saw. For now, she would wait until nightfall before using her wings to fly.

****

It felt like a lifetime before night finally replaced the day. Ariya was glad when the familiar trail led back to Jace's apartment. She started up the stairs to the entrance and continued inside to Jace's apartment.

"No one's home."

She turned at the sound of the small voice coming from the opposite end of the hall. An pale older woman with white hair looked back at her with curious coral, blue eyes.

"Oh, you just missed him. The young man who lives there left not too long ago. Probably to teach and then out for a night of partying, as young people usually do."

"Oh," Ariya tried to hide her disappointment. Might as well use the lady's knowledge for good. "Do you by any chance know when he will be back?"

The older woman raised her thin shoulders in a shrug. "Not a clue. Although, I must say..." She stepped out of the doorway, closing her door behind her. Taking slow steps toward Ariya, she crept closer as if she held the secrets of the Sphinx. "There have been some strange noises coming from that apartment late at night."

"Strange noises?" Ariya looked down at the older lady, pretending to be surprised. "What do you mean?"

"Well, he only leaves the apartment at night and then always returns right before dawn. During the day, it's as quiet as a tomb in there. I once tried to knock on his door one afternoon and nothing. It was still as night and I knew he was in there. And the other evening, I could have sworn I heard growling and knocking like a large animal was tossed against the wall."

Ariya shifted her weight, trying to bite down a smile. "Interesting," she said with a nod.

"It's mighty strange if you ask me. I think he may be one of those vampire wannabe types whose body clock is all topsy-turvy. It isn't healthy for a young growing man to restrict his lifestyle to the night like that."

"Well, we're all unique in our own way. One's own peculiarities that might be normal to us may seem strange to the next person."

The older woman lifted a leery eye. "Perhaps. Perhaps. Just be careful, dearie. You don't want to fall into some kind of trouble with the wrong crowd. You seem like a sweet enough kid."

"I will be careful. Thank you for your concern." Ariya watched the older woman walk back to her apartment. Flashing a parting smile and a small wave before she closed the door.

Ariya exhaled as she felt her wings flutter beneath the dress. She stifled a chuckle. _If she only knew the truth._

She sat down to rest in front of Jace's door and allowed her mind to wander. What would happen if the Ashen Twilight House came out from hiding? Would they be ridiculed by people who had the same viewpoint as the older woman? Or would they be welcome with open arms?

Judging by her studies, most of the media revered vampires and other creatures of the supernatural. But fact was way different than fiction. Like Jace said, the mortals didn't have much of a good track record with beings that were different from themselves. Perhaps it was best if they kept a low profile.

She hugged her knees to her chest and leaned against the door, making sure not to crush or tear her delicate wings.

Jace should be back soon, but in the meantime, she could use the rest.

****

Jace parked his Volga Roadster in the nearby carport and turned off the engine. His nightly routine had turned into just that, a routine. And a boring one at that. Ever since Ariya left, he had hoped to return to his life from before her arrival. No matter what he did, he couldn't settle back into his previous mindset after meeting her and the elemental. Perhaps he needed a vacation or something. He could visit the other Houses around the world just to get a taste of something different. Anything to get her out of his mind.

Jace pushed the car door open as his cell phone rang from his pants pocket. He was quick to answer it."Y-ello?"

"Jace, it's Rich."

"Didn't I just see you?"

Rich laughed, a mixture of a grunt and a chuckle. "I forgot to ask if you were busy the night after tomorrow. I'm inviting you over for a surprise celebration."

Jace reached across the front seat to grab his briefcase and art supplies, balancing the phone between his ear and shoulder. "And this you couldn't ask me while I was there?"

"Not a chance. I wanted to keep this low-key for now. Since everything fell into place and I got the green light, I figured I'd tell you personally. I just called Gael and he agreed to spread the word for me."

"Okay. So, what are we celebrating?"

"What part of surprise do you not understand?"

Jace snorted as he climbed out of the car, juggling the phone and his other items. "Right. Well, then. I'll be there."

"I just have to get a few things ready beforehand at my house, but meet me at the Torch around seven."

"Will do."

"Later, man."

"Later."

Jace headed up the short steps to his apartment complex, stuffing the cell in his pocket as he wondered what was up with Rich. The Lycan had been acting strange since they fought in front of Ariya. After she left, Rich made his presence scarce. One time he mumbled something about working on some kind of project, but he refused to divulge any details to Jace or Gael. No matter how much they tried to pry it out of him, he refused to budge.

Jace froze, sensing a familiar presence.

_Ariya_.

Her sweet aura filled every corner of his mind and body. _Was she really here?_ Or was his mind playing tricks on him?

He continued around the corner to his apartment and stopped once he saw who was sleeping in front of his door.

Jace breathed in slowly, feeling every essence of life within her.

The slow breaths she took.

The calm beats of her heart.

The smell of her sweet blood pumping through her veins.

He had to blink a few times to realize she was really here and just a few feet away.

Ariya was actually here.

He quietly approached her and set his things down before scooping her up into his arms. Soft, warm skin heated his coldness as he held her close.

A mix of emotions raced through him. Fear. Relief. Anger. Contentment. Reaching into his pocket for the key, he balanced her body with one arm and unlocked the door with his free hand. Right away, he headed to his bedroom and gently set her down on his bed. He was amazed that he didn't wake her. She must have been exhausted from her trip.

He went to retrieve his items from the hall when he stopped, sensing a presence. Based on the scent, he could tell who was watching. He peered across the hallway as the old woman's door closed with the soft click of the lock. Jace grabbed his things and went back inside, smiling as he closed the door. Who needed the cops when he had his own personal neighborhood watch across the way? Perhaps she would come in handy one day.

Once he returned to the bedroom, he stood by the door for a moment watching Ariya sleep peacefully. She was as beautiful as ever in her soft gown. Her dark feet were bare and he had to wonder how she could walk so freely on such vile streets. Mortals weren't exactly the cleanest of species in this world. The thought of her risking her life to return to him made his heart swell. His body tingled as he walked to her and gently cradled her face in his hands. She was as beautiful as he remembered. He feared for her, yet was thankful that she had come back.

As if sensing his thoughts, Ariya stirred in her sleep before opening her eyes. Upon seeing him, she brightened up with a smile.

"Jace!" She jumped up and threw her arms around him in a tight hug.

He remained still, careful not to let his body give away how much he had missed her. Instead, he unwrapped her arms and placed them at her side before he moved away. As much as he wanted to indulge in the feel of her, he couldn't. Not just yet.

"Jace—"

He dodged her gaze. "Ariya, you came back."

"Of course I did. I gave my word that I would." She slipped off the bed and went to him. She touched his face, turning him so he looked in her eyes. "I never stopped thinking of you."

He forced her hands away and crossed the room. "You shouldn't have come back, Ariya. You were in your world and I was fine here."

"I had the dream again. I thought you may have been in danger."

"As you see," he said, opening his arms. "I'm fine. Everything's well here."

The ring popped up in her mind and she turned toward the dresser. Her elation melted away. She must have noticed the rings weren't there. "Jace, let me explain," she said as she walked to him. "I couldn't—"

"What about your family?" he asked gruffly. "They must have been overjoyed that you left them a second time."

*

Her heart nearly stopped at the sharpness of his words. Why was he so short with her? "They're dead, Jace," she said, her voice hollow. "My home was still in shambles. We rebuilt it in their honor. I think they would've wanted it."

"I'm sorry Ariya," Jace said softly. "I didn't mean it." He walked toward her, but she immediately stepped back.

Ariya told herself to focus. She had come here for a reason and it wasn't because she suspected Jace would greet her with open arms. In fact, she should have expected him to be upset after she left the ring. "I may have found some new information about the elemental. I wanted to run it by the House."

"What is it?"

"I think my mother and father had encountered one before. I found this book called _The Book of the Elders_ in my father's library. It looked like the same one I had seen my mother read some time before the elemental attacked. It had a section called the ' _Elementals of Nature'_. Basically, it said someone had summoned the elemental, which could integrate itself into anything. It also had the ability to absorb the energy, life force and powers of those it consumed."

"Which is why Shelly was almost drained."

"Right. And why my sisters were found completely drained. Someone had summoned that elemental, Jace. They were targeting my people and my family in a way that we've never seen before."

Jace's raised an eyebrow. "Do you think another one may be coming?"

"I don't know. It was summoned by someone and that same person has grown more powerful with each attack. They may try again with a new elemental."

"And this was in the dream?"

Ariya shook her head. "No, but I _felt_ the same ominous presence in the dream."

Jace ran his hands through his dark wavy hair. The wheels turned in his mind. "So, let me get this straight, then. You're thinking someone in this realm summoned it to target your people?"

She shook her head. "No. To target _me_. I'm the last of my family line and the last to hold the powers that I have. When I returned home, I found out why my mother and father had been trying to teach me to hone my craft. I had abilities that no other Aziza held other than my friends. Abilities that were even more advanced than my sisters. I was the only one to survive this elemental creature and I was meant to become Queen among my people to keep them safe."

Jace's eyes widened. "Queen? Like as in—a Faerie Queen?"

Ariya felt herself relax as she smiled. "Yes. It was my birthright. I had to make sure life continued for everyone in the realm. I came back to find out who was behind the elemental and to stop any more from coming."

"Do you think this person is a Nightwalker?"

She shrugged. "I can't say for sure. I know it is someone who's been studying us for years. I'm sure of it."

Jace sighed. "Well, no one in the houses could have been responsible, since we knew nothing of the Aziza before we met you. The humans know even less and believe you guys only exist in fairy tales. Pun intended. That leaves the Rens. I wouldn't be surprised if it were them. For all we know, they could have been studying you for ages."

Ariya frowned. "What would they have to gain from that?"

Jace half-chuckled and half-scoffed. "Everything. With the ability to cross realms, gain more power by mere absorption and control of others, they stumbled upon a goldmine. They've been our adversary for years. I wouldn't be surprised if they saw this as a chance to overpower us. Julian may know what to do."

He turned to the clock next to his bed.

"Are you going to call him?" Ariya asked.

"It's two-thirty. The night's still young." Turning to her, he held out his hand with a smile. "How about we take a ride downtown?"

# Chapter 12

Jace drove downtown, thankful for the lack of traffic this time of night. He felt at peace with Ariya at his side again. He wanted to pretend that she was here all along and nothing had changed.

But it had.

He shifted in his seat and forced his mind to focus on the task at hand. Now wasn't the time to muse over his feelings. They had more serious matters to attend to first.

When they finally arrived at the Ashen Twilight House, it looked like a party was in progress. Various guards and members conversed on the front lawn. Jace slipped past them with a nod and led Ariya up to the second floor. Fortunately, the conference room was absent of any visitors.

"Wait here," he told Ariya. "I'll be back."

He went to the door and stopped to look over his shoulder at her. There she stood watching him closely.

Jace didn't think before acted on his gut feeling. With a surge of energy flowing through his veins, he rushed back to her and pulled her to him. In an instant, he leaned down and crushed his lips upon hers in a deep kiss. He breathed in the scent of her body, her blood, and her essence. His hands roamed over every inch of her and he had to calm himself down before they got too carried away in his Uncle's home. He reluctantly pulled away and smiled down at her.

"Welcome back, Ariya," he said softly. "I'll go get Julian."

He turned and quickly took his leave. Suddenly his mind filled with a strange rush of images: Julian, standing in direct sunlight. It was gone in a flash. As he continued down the hallway, his preternatural senses picked up Ariya's exhale, barely audible to mortal ears.

****

The hall leading to Julian's room was dimly lit to give the guards a sign that he wasn't to be bothered. _Tough luck, Unc. This was too important to wait._

Jace reached out for the doorknob, thankful when it turned all the way open. He stepped inside and found a matchstick to light the faintly lit candles around the room.

Soft shadows formed the contours of three female forms strewn across Julian's bare, sleeping body. Their skin, like their hair, ranged from dark to light. All had the same shapely build that reminded him of the voluptuous women of his time. Before stick figure chic was in fashion. Jace shook his head. One thing his Uncle always joked about was that variety made life more interesting.

He raised his hands and clapped loudly, waking everyone in the bed.

"Julian, I need to speak with you," Jace said smoothly.

Julian sat up and away from the waking females covering him. He gestured toward them with a nod. "Can it wait?"

"No. This is rather important and can affect all the houses."

Julian climbed out of the bed with a sigh and reached for his black silk robe draped over a nearby chair. Jace followed the movement out of the corner of his eye. One of the women was watching him with a smile on her face. She tossed him a wink.

Jace cleared his throat as he turned back toward the door.

"This better be good," Julian muttered, following behind him.

"Don't worry. You can return to Dracula's brides once this is all over." Jace looked over his shoulder and said, "Ladies," before continuing to the hall.

After Ariya joined them, they retreated to the conference room. Julian's expression remained blank as he looked at Ariya standing near the fireplace. Jace felt her body tense the moment they entered the room. _What was going on?_ She wasn't still nervous around Julian, was she? Not after all this time...

Julian must've noticed the same as he looked at Jace with a lift of his eyebrow.

Jace shook his head and shrugged.

"So, Ariya," Julian began. "I see you have returned."

"Yes, I have." She swallowed deeply before taking a breath to calm herself. "I found some more information about the Elemental. Jace believes it may point to the Rens conjuring it up. If this is true, I think there may be another one on its way."

Jace watched Julian rub his chin as he listened. Then he turned to Ariya, sensing her tension. Something was wrong and he couldn't help wondering if it had to do with the images he read from her mind.

Julian turned to Jace, and then back to Ariya. "Are you certain?"

"Well, I'm not a hundred percent certain, but I do have a strong feeling about it," Ariya said.

"I've been thinking about what she said concerning the creature." Jace said, folding his arms as he began to pace. "If it's true, then we may have another problem on our hands. This one much bigger than before. You and the other Patriarchs absorbed the Elemental. If the Rens know this, they may try again to summon another one. A stronger one."

Julian paced the room with his hands folded behind him. The silence was broken by the soft wisp of his dark robe brushing against the designer carpet.

Ariya and Jace looked at each other, wondering what his next words would be. After a moment Julian, finally straightened his posture and looked at Ariya.

"Would you be willing to help us out?"

Ariya nodded. "Of course. Anything I can do to stop this thing."

"Well, now," Jace said, holding his hand up. "What exactly do you have in mind for her to do, Uncle?"

Julian narrowed his gaze on Ariya. "I think we may be able to use Ariya's talents to find the person responsible. It's a little late to brainstorm now, but I would love for you to come by tomorrow evening. We'll see if we can implement a plan of our own."

Ariya nodded. "I'll be here."

"Good." Julian started back to the hall when he stopped and turned. "Oh, and welcome back."

Once he left, Ariya immediately relaxed. "Did something happen while I was gone?"

Jace frowned. "What do you mean?"

"I mean, is that the same Julian?"

Jace chuckled. As she wrapped his arms around Ariya and led her to the door, he couldn't help wondering the same thing.

****

Later that night, Jace held the door open for Ariya as she stepped through the threshold of his apartment. He closed the door behind her, but she almost didn't hear it as something else caught her eyes. Pushed back in the corner of the living room was something she hadn't seen before. An extravagant wood framed easel rested against the wall. It held a large, cotton duck canvas with a huge white blanket draped over the front.

Jace didn't bother to move as he stood behind her. She felt his eyes watching. Was he waiting for her to discover the piece?

Go ahead. Look.

Hearing his voice in her mind, she went to the piece. She circled around to the front of the easel and lifted the white blanket to look underneath. Seeing the image, she gasped and clutched her hand over her mouth. A beautiful picture perfect rendition of her image was depicted in extravagant color. From her long, dark chocolate curly hair to her smooth brown complexion and the deep ethereal expression in her tawny eyes, she saw herself the way Jace saw her. A tear fell from her eye, and there were no words that crossed her mind or fell from her lips.

Jace appeared beside her, his gaze darting from her to the image. "The night you left, I promised myself something. If I were to forget you in my mind's eye, I would always have a picture to remind myself of you. Although you were in the Aziza Fae realm, this would also keep you immortal in this realm as the days went on. I couldn't forget you no matter how hard I wanted to. When I saw that ring on the dresser—"

She turned to him and immediately wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close. "Jace, please. I had my reasons for leaving that ring. It wasn't time. We couldn't know what would happen—"

He reached down to gently cover her mouth with his fingers. "Shh, I understand. We have some time to talk about that in the days ahead. For now, I have to go get something to eat before the night is over."

"Will you not stay here? You've shared your home with me and you've fed from me before. Why not now?"

"You know my flaw, Ariya. I don't want to put you in that kind of danger."

She shook her head. "There was no danger before, Jace. I was perfectly well after you fed."

"Even so, it's not something I want to risk." He cradled her face in his hands. "Please, trust me on this?"

She forced a smile as he placed a gentle kiss upon her forehead. Then he started for the front door.

"Jace—"

He stopped with his hand on the doorknob and turned to face her.

"I think I may have seen Julian earlier today."

Jace frowned. "When?"

"This afternoon he was standing out on the terrace—"

Jace shook his head and held up a hand. "Wait a minute. You saw Julian _during the day_?"

Ariya nodded slowly. "I didn't think it was him at first until I looked closer. I could have been wrong." She tried to ignore the sharp sting in her heart that occurred whenever she stretched the truth a little. She knew it was Julian the moment he looked right at her. The one thing she didn't know was the "how's" and the "why's" of it happening. "I didn't want to say anything back there for fear he would read my thoughts. He may not have wanted anyone to know."

"Ariya, it couldn't have been—"

"Who, Jace? Who else could it have been?"

He sighed, his shoulders sagging a little. Even _he_ couldn't think of any other explanation. "How was Julian able to walk in the day?"

Ariya shrugged. "I'm not sure exactly. It could've been the power of the first Elemental. Julian, Daoine, and Michael all absorbed it that night. The same night it infected the mortals. If it's true that the elemental creature consumes power, then they could've absorbed the mortal's ability to withstand the sun."

Jace shifted his weight. "Well, if that's true I hope he hasn't absorbed their faults as well."

"Maybe. But, maybe not. Considering it was the same creature to attack my friends and family. If it really did integrate itself into him, then he should have our powers as well."

Jace sighed and held up his hands. "Either way, we can probably figure this out later. I'm too tired from a wild night as is."

"You don't have to go out to eat, you know." She smiled. "What about the bottles in the fridge?"

Jace frowned and shook his head. "Sometimes a guy needs a change of pace, you know? New blood and all that."

Ariya nodded, trying to ignore the nagging disappointment settling in her stomach. "Where are you going to sleep when you get back?"

He pointed to the couch. "Over there is as good as it always was."

"Well," she batted her eyes and softened her voice, hoping he would catch her hint. "Your bed is pretty big as I recall."

He turned toward the couch. "It's not a problem, really. I can just close the blinds to keep the sun out during the day."

"Yeah, but still—" She stopped to study the look in his eyes. "Are you uncomfortable with me being here?"

Jace shrugged and smiled. "Why do you ask?"

"I guess the way you were earlier. Pushing me away. It's as if you weren't sure how to feel with me being around."

Jace walked back to her and looked deep into her eyes. He cupped her face in his hands, gently rubbing his thumbs against her cheeks. "I just need to go out for a little while, okay? You stay here and rest. I promise I'll be back before you awaken."

With that, he walked to the door. Once he placed his hand on the doorknob, he looked at her one more time.

Ariya couldn't help wondering if part of him really wanted to leave, or stay here with her.

"Don't worry," Ariya said with a smile. "I'm not going anywhere this time."

Jace chuckled. Then he took his leave, closing the door behind him.

****

As she stood alone in the living room, Ariya wished deep down he would turn around, change his mind and come back. She didn't know why she wished him to stay and feed upon her. The act was merely a way for him and the other Nightwalkers to survive. The memory of him on his couch with Shelly brought an acidic feeling in her stomach. She couldn't verbalize it, but she knew she wanted to share that with him. She wished even more that he wanted to share it with her. After all, the kiss earlier had to mean something.

Ariya sighed and shook her head. She never met a man before who was passionate one minute and so closed off the next.

Pushing the issue aside for now, she turned and started toward the bedroom to change. Now wasn't the time to address such concerns. She still felt Jace's presence all over his living space despite his absence. That was pleasant enough for now.

Wait a minute. She turned to look down the hall toward the living room. It wasn't just his presence that lingered, it was him. He was still standing outside the door, perhaps sensing her thoughts and feelings at the exact same moment. _Did he feel the same way?_

She started toward the door, wondering why he hadn't left. As she walked closer, she felt him jolt to life as if noticing her presence closing in on him. Seconds later, he started down the hall, and she was alone.

With questions on her mind, she moved to the bedroom to change for the night. Thankfully, he still kept her clothes from her last visit. He even had a few large shirts laid out for her. She changed into a long t-shirt before climbing into his bed.

Mmm...warm and comfortable. As perfect as she remembered.

She snuggled up under the covers and sighed. Thoughts of Jace painting the portrait overcame her as her body relaxed. Drifting off to sleep, she sensed something down on the floor behind Jace's nightstand. It looked like something shiny. She reached down to the floor and felt along the hard wood until her hand hit something small and cold. A shiny metal ring with hands clasped around a heart under a crown. The Claddagh ring. The same one Jace's mother had given him. _Where was the other one?_

She bent down, carefully searching the floor for the second ring. Nothing. With a soft exhale, she stood and went to the dresser.

Ariya gently carried the ring in her open palm as if it were made of glass. She set it down next to the miniature trebuchet. A small glint of light caught her eye behind the other trinkets. She pushed them aside to reveal her ring sitting idly next to an old sword sculpture. With a smile on her lips, she slid the two rings together before climbing back into bed.

****

Jace stepped out into the night, stuffing his hands in his pockets. Part of him wanted to go back to Ariya, the more he felt her presence on the other end of the door. The stronger part of him screamed that he didn't survive for centuries because he gave into his feelings so easily. He survived by keeping his feelings controlled and rational. Ariya was the first woman to pull him out of his shell. After she left, his world had turned upside down. Now, with her return, he didn't know what to think.

You've shared your home with me and you've fed from me before. Why not now?

Why not now, indeed? He knew he shouldn't uproot his lifestyle just for her, no matter how much he felt for her.

He'd lived centuries before he knew her and he'd taken many women during that time. Ariya was different, unlike any woman he had met before. And it was more than her being a Fae.

Jace cursed himself for falling so hard. Ariya had awakened something deep within him that he thought was long forgotten; the ability to love and care for another, in a way that transcended mere survival and lust. The life of an immortal made everything and everyone disposable. Perhaps he had forgotten to treasure the emotion of love.

Or perhaps this was the first time he had come anywhere close to it.

The notion sent chills down his spine and he tried to push the thoughts away.

He peeled his gaze from the ground and realized he had reached the end of the street. The air was rather silent in his suburban neighborhood, with hardly any cars passing through. He was thankful. The primal hunger that haunted him had receded slightly, yet still remained.

A car revved up in the distance, preparing to zoom by. He checked his watch: four a.m. A perfect time for late night partiers looking for a thrill ride. Bad for late night walkers like himself who indulged in the quiet calm. The roar of the car's engine combined with howling screams from the riders. They drove by and he caught sight of the passenger hanging halfway out the car, screaming into the night. Was he ever that young and wild? Perhaps he never had the chance to live such a whimsical existence throughout all the wars he fought. One century's battle bled into another's as the Houses continually fought for survival.

Jace started to turn the corner when he spotted the car pulling into a nearby driveway of a packed house. Loud music and bright lights signaled it was Party Central. _Was it Friday night already?_ With a smile, he started toward the house to get a glimpse of the partygoers.

As he moved closer, he couldn't help sensing the faint scent of immortal blood mixed with human. _Where was that coming from?_ He surveyed the area, but all remained still, quiet and empty. As he got closer to the house, the scent grew stronger until he stepped through the open door and into the crowded living room.

"Heeyyy."

Jace turned to look at a young college girl wearing a short top that bared her belly button and a short skirt that could double as a tube top. He merely smiled as a courtesy and continued past the crowd of bodies filling every inch of living space. Every nerve in his body told him to stay on alert as the smell returned and grew stronger. Instinct told him to turn around and leave right away. What if he ran into one of his students? Thankfully, his youthful appearance and low key clothes made him blend in with the partiers. If his students did find him here, they would probably run and hide in another room. That would be a bonus on his part.

The smell grew stronger toward the staircase. He passed by a group of kids involved in a chugging contest and a few couples kissing. Nearly sucking the face off one another was more accurate. _Was this what passed for romance in today's youth?_

Dismissing the question, he continued up the stairs. The hallway to the second floor was still and quiet with no trace of the scent anywhere. _Did he imagine that smell?_

He turned toward the staircase to leave when he heard it. Two heart beats racing rapidly.

_Come on baby, don't fight it_. The male voice was lower than a whisper. Nearly undetected by human ears, but Jace could hear it as if the words were spoken right in front of him.

No—Steve please—I don't want this.

_Don't want? Don't you dare tell me what you don't want, baby. You owe me this. And you can't do a thing to stop it right now._ His laugh was low and thick.

Jace could already smell the liquor on both of them, more so on the girl. For a split second, he turned away. This wasn't his fight and he shouldn't get involved. His head was screaming the words, but what was left of his heart was saying otherwise. A loud slap reverberated amidst a small whimper. Loud shuffling and the sound of a buckle followed soon after.

Turning toward the room, Jace's hands formed into fists at his side. He knew exactly where to go. The shadows between the rays of moonlight drenched the room in darkness. Jace didn't need any light. He tapped into his night vision and looked to the bed. A large, muscled college age man held down a thin, intoxicated girl as she tried to move beneath him. His thick arm pushed into her neck, cutting off her oxygen. His free hand fumbled with his belt buckle.

The kid laughed, his thick booze-filled breath choking the girl along with his meaty forearm.

"Come on, baby," he said, deepening his voice. "Open wide for me."

Jace moved in mere seconds. He slammed his hands on the kid and threw him through the closed window, shattering the glass on impact. The girl moaned softly in her dazed state. He rushed over to check her pulse. It was racing and her blood content was sky high, but otherwise her vitals were okay. He quickly grabbed a nearby blanket and gently wrapped it around her. She immediately relaxed as he placed his hand on her forehead to calm her.

Turning toward the broken window, Jace's blood boiled. He was suddenly very hungry.

With a deep growl, Jace revealed his sharp fangs and his eyes intensified as the desire to feed overcame him. He jumped out the window and dove down into the backyard below, landing on his feet. The party and loud music still continued unbothered from what he could see from the patio. The college kid lay on the ground, struggling to recover from his fall. Jace couldn't tell if this was one of Rich's football players, but it didn't matter. All questions would have to wait for now.

"Wha-What the he—"

Jace bared his teeth as he yanked the kid from the ground and held him over his head.

"What are you? Help! He—"

The backyard patio door opened as Jace covered the kid's mouth and slammed his body to the ground, keeping him out of sight. To anyone watching, the kid—really a young adult according to Human time frame—the fight seemed unfair. Compared to Jace's lean muscular frame, Steve's thick, wide frame looked like he could've pounded Jace into the ground. The kid's muscles failed against Jace's preternatural strength.

Jace leaned back with a hiss and dove down. Steve's pulse called to him, beckoning him to drink.

And drink he did.

"Steve?" The male voice from the patio shouted out. "Was that you?"

Jace drank furiously as Steve tried to scream under the hand covering his mouth.

Cold lips grew warm as it clutched the large neck. All of the tension built up over time burned like a furnace as Jace fed. As the moments passed, Steve stopped struggling. His pulse weakened to silence.

Jace rose to his feet and wiped his mouth as he looked around. Steve's friend surveyed the darkened patio one last time before shrugging and returning to the party. The urge to relieve the excess amount of blood he consumed pulled at Jace. Looking back at the still body, another feeling coursed through him: that of remorse. He had applied a rather harsh sentence upon this kid for what he almost did to the girl.

Throughout his life, he refused to stand by idly as brutes fed on those weaker than themselves. He intervened whenever he could, from the corners of taverns to brothels and even churches when women were preyed upon by men in power.

_You can't take on the world, Jace_ , his father had once said. _It wasn't our job to save everyone._

But it still didn't hurt to try.

Jace looked down at Steve's still body. This was his first kill since Ariya's return. Over the centuries, he had gotten used to this flaw in the feed. He spent his life trying to figure out how and why this had happened to him and no other Nightwalker. Now, he saw it as a passing of life from his victim to him. It was his way of survival and he had made the choice long ago to survive at all costs.

Jace gently caressed the two bite marks left on Steve's neck and closed the skin. Finally, he stood and hauled Steve's huge body over his shoulder. _Like a feather_. He could've left him for his friends to find. Who was he kidding? The consequences of such an action would shake the city into a panic and the media would have a field day, screaming that there was a serial killer on the loose.

Killer.

The word nearly stopped Jace cold in the middle of the street.

The monster inside Jace had reemerged. Although he worked on good intentions, he allowed his instincts to feed. How could Ariya understand his lifestyle? This was what he had become used to as the centuries went on. He didn't have to worry about what others thought because he lived life for himself and no one else. Now all of that has changed—or has it?

The smell of an immortal caught his scent again. Aged musk mixing with death and the desire to hunt and kill. A Shifter Ren's blood. Jace ducked into the shadows of the street as he made his way to Angel's home. Her office wasn't too far, and if she was out on a pickup, at least one of her workers would be hanging around this time of morning. They'd know how to dispose of the body. Later he would question Rich about this Steve guy.

Ignoring the smell, he continued down the street trying to keep within the shadows and away from mortal eyes.

****

Later that night, Jace returned home after dropping the body off. He was sure Ariya would still be awake waiting for him, but the apartment was silent except for the rhythmic beat of her heart echoing softly in his mind. She was definitely asleep. He sighed with relief, thankful not to have to face her. He couldn't tell her what happened that night. Part of him wondered what she would say if he did. Would she still feel the same way about him afterward? Or would she be repulsed by the monster that lay deep within him?

No point in worrying about it now.

He slipped his jacket off his shoulders and folded it over the back of the couch. Later on he would deal with it, but tonight he needed some rest. The morning sun would be rising soon and death would claim his body as night rose upon the Earth once again.

Stepping into the bedroom, he saw her through the darkness snuggled up underneath his covers. Her chest rose and fell in a rhythmic pattern. He took slow steps toward her and stopped, sensing something different. Turning, he saw them. _The rings sitting on top of the dresser._ She must have found the other one he threw across the room. He almost forgot to pick it up before she discovered what he had done. He didn't regret giving it to her and the fact that she left it in such a pattern stung his heart. Perhaps it was the wrong time to give it to her. Some would even say he fell for her too quickly in the need to keep her close.

Now he saw things in perspective. Ariya was the first woman to touch him _because_ she was immortal and strong-willed. Sure he could have women like Shelly, but there was something beautiful, extraordinary and pure about Ariya. Something that proved he would fall for her again if given the chance.

Still, she belonged to another world and the last thing he wanted to do was bring his darkness into her light.

Slowly Jace slipped into his bed next to Ariya and wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close. She moaned softly in her sleep and laid on his chest, her silky curls falling into his face. Brushing them aside, he breathed in the soft floral scent that always seemed to surround her. Finally, after so many years, he felt like he was home.

# Chapter 13

Ariya raced across the darkened streets sparsely illuminated under the shimmering moonlight.

Her shaky hands clutched the dark velvet cloak around her shoulders, pulling it tighter. She quickened her pace, feeling a presence moving behind her.

Good.

It was just what she wanted. A faint fog hung in the air and the naturally clear sky was covered with a dark orange overcast of pale clouds.

Tiny pebbles and fallen debris from the trees overhead crunched under her feet as she quickened her pace. She couldn't tell what kind of beasts followed her. Their current forms held an olfactory cocktail of death and aged blood.

These were definitely Rens.

From what she came to understand during the house meetings, Rens didn't believe in the rules of the Ashen Twilight House. They lived their own way. While the houses were careful over the centuries to make sure they weren't seen by human's eyes, Rens wanted to emerge from the darkness with a scream. They didn't think too much of Mortals and from what she gathered, they wanted to be their rulers.

A deep howl sent shivers down her spine and goosebumps on her arms. She hurried along the sidewalk, careful not to run into populated areas.

Ariya gripped the silver rapier under her cloak. The sweat from her tight grip made the blade handle slippery. She held on and coached herself to remain calm.

Feeling a heightened sense of confidence, she whipped around.

A dark, empty street lay ahead. Her eyes told her she was alone, but her extra senses knew better. She turned back to the opposite end of the street. Tatum was just ahead. The rendezvous point—a barren piece of land—wasn't too far.

"Calm down, Ariya" she whispered. Her fingers tapped on the cold, sturdy hilt. The metal surface quickly warmed in her heated grip. Her crushed wings fluttered slightly beneath her dress and cloak.

_Ready or not._ She gripped the rapier tighter. _Here I go._

Another howl echoed in the area, this one much closer.

They were here.

Ariya started toward the end of the alleyway. A shadow danced across the building wall entrance...and then another. Two Siberian Huskies trotted around the corner followed by four more. Although they stopped, a pitter-patter sound echoed from behind her. She peered over her shoulder and saw another pack covering the back entrance. A sea of growls emitted from their snarled maws as they moved in. Saliva dropped from their tongues, all too ready to dig into her warm flesh.

_Which one was the leader?_ Slowly she dipped her rapier behind her cloak, feeling the rapid adrenaline pulsing through her body. Ready to strike at any moment, she waited for the ringleader to come closer. As if on cue, the pack moved away and a single Husky stepped forward.

Ariya licked her lips slowly. _Show no fear._ "I know what you're here for. And I won't struggle."

The dog closest to her leaped into the air and with a flash of light morphed into human form right before her eyes. He flipped in mid-air and sharply landed on one knee, balancing his weight on his outstretched palms pressed against the ground. Bright silver eyes focused on her and he taunted her with a sharp growl. Dark scraggly, unkempt hair fell past his shoulders.

"Pretty bold move for you to come back here all alone." His cold voice was deep and raspy. "What exactly is it that you think you know?"

"The Elemental was summoned by you, wasn't it? You were trying to find me by the process of elimination."

He pursed his lips, impressed. "Could be. What makes you think it was one of us?"

She smiled. "You're here, aren't you? Taking the bait."

The Ren snarled. "You're not that dumb, girl. But now that you are here, we will happily oblige you. The more you cooperate, the less this will hurt."

Ariya waited until he was close. Her hand tightened on the rapier. She flung the sides of her coat back before swinging toward the Ren. He moved, leaving only wind and empty air behind him. He laughed proudly, mocking her.

"Come on, Fae," he sneered. The Huskies around them morphed into their Human forms and moved in for the kill. "I promise this won't hurt—much."

Ariya felt like a tiny mouse in the midst of a pack of hungry cats waiting to pounce. She grabbed the tie at her neck, untied the cloak and spun it off her shoulders, uncovering herself like a shedding cocoon. As the cloak fell to the ground, her wings spread out like thin sheets of translucent silk. The Rens dove for her as she leaped high into the air. Her wings whipped against the wind, lifting her higher and higher above the city streets. Her heart beat fast and her mind raced, feeling the adrenaline pumping through her veins. She had to move quickly. She lowered herself on the brick building across the way and turned back to the pack on the alleyway below.

Sirens broke throughout the area, alerting of the police cars turning the corner down the street. The neighbors on the other side of the street must have heard the noise!

"Move out!" the scraggy-haired Ren yelled. The pack jumped high into the air, and before gravity could take over, they morphed into a flock of bats in thin air, all forming a cloudy dark shadow over the alleyway. Through the shadow's small air pockets, Ariya spotted one Ren still standing in his human form. The police cars turned the corner and screeched to a halt on each entrance end. The cops climbed out of their cars with their guns drawn and their senses on high alert.

"Hands up!"

"Back up against the freakin' wall!"

The Ren turned to the armed officers and bared his fangs. A high-pitched screech emitted from his open mouth. The cops backed up, trying to cover their ears with one hand while aiming their guns with the other. A spray of bullets flew through the air, but the oncoming flock of bats moved closer together, blocking Ariya's view.

Ariya turned on her heels and raced toward the opposite building, the screeches grew louder, tickling a grating nerve within her. She was losing focus. The screeches in her mind enclosed around her brain and the only feeling left was that of survival. The building across the way wasn't too far ahead. She had to hold on.

The loud thunderous flock of bats screeched behind her as she pumped more energy into her legs. Once she reached the end of the building, she leaped over the dark chasm and swung around in a 180-degree turn. Her wings flared to life and anchored her body in the air as she threw her hands out sending a stream of fire flowing from her fingertips. She watched as the inner bats caught the wave and burst into flames while the others flared out. The air filled with the stench of smoke and rotting meat. She sent another wave, a stream of blue energy, toward the remaining bats and only a small dust cloud remained.

Ariya turned and landed on the edge of the building overlooking the open city block down below. _They were still here_. She told herself not to look back despite the loud flip-flapping sounds in the air behind her.

Without another thought, she immediately dove off.

Her wings flared as she sailed to the ground where Jace, Rich and the House of Lycan waited in their immortal forms.

"Duck Ariya!" Jace yelled with a predatory growl.

The minute she hit the ground she dropped. A massive wind flew over her, caressing her thin wings. Snarls, hisses, and growls filled the air all around her, but she remained still with her eyes closed and her arms protecting her head. Bodies slammed against the ground. Large paws ripped into flesh, tearing and mincing them to shreds. Ariya waited until silence claimed the area with only the police sirens echoing in the distance.

A pair of arms wrapped around her and pulled her up.

"Ariya."

Hearing Jace's voice, she exhaled and realized how long she had been holding her breath. Feeling a sense of relief course through her body, she immediately wrapped her arms around him and pulled him close.

"It's over, baby," he said calmly. "You did well."

Ariya peeked over his shoulder where she caught sight of the Lycans in their Human forms. A bloody clutter of flesh, muscle and bone remained on the ground a few feet away. The last Ren standing now struggled to free himself from two large Lycans.

"Let's get you out of here," Jace said.

He slipped his hand under her elbow and led her to the waiting limo nearby.

****

The ride to the Ashen Twilight House was silent beside the blare of the police sirens in the distance. The alleyway was conveniently located away from the central residential area, but now she realized how close it was to the neighbors. Ariya leaned against the back of her seat, mentally going over everything that had just happened. Should she mention that the leader bared his fangs to the Mortal police? Had he put them all in danger?

She pushed the question out of her mind, thankful that Jace was distracted with his own thoughts to poke into hers. Despite sitting close to her, his eyes remained fixated on the city outside the window. He might as well be sitting miles away.

Once they arrived, they immediately stepped out and headed for the house. Jace and Rich led the team up to the top floor and at the end of the hall where the door remained open to the conference room. A slick looking, bald Nightwalker stood at the entrance. He nodded a greeting and ushered them in.

Inside the conference room, warm, dark hues set the mood with the flicker of orange and yellow embers from the iridescent fireplace. The room was already full with members of each of the Houses. Julian waited near the front of the table standing with Daoine, Gael and Michael at his side. The two Lycans holding the Ren tossed him to the ground and he landed at Julian's feet. His eyes widened as he jumped up and crawled backward away from the three men.

Julian merely smiled and Ariya couldn't shake why it felt unsettling. The smile remained even as he met her gaze.

"Well done, Ariya."

The Ren's eyes darted from Ariya to Julian with a curious expression coloring his face.

"Please." Julian gestured to a nearby chair.

Ariya felt as if she should excuse herself, but the air was thick with a tension that stilled her in place.

"I'm sure after such an ordeal, you would like to rest."

He was right about that. Ariya smiled nervously, feeling every eye in the room on her as she crossed the room to the old, elegantly designed Victorian chair. She sat down and made herself comfortable, careful not to crush her wings.

She turned to watch Jace standing nearby with Rich and Gael on either side of him. Never before had she seen him look more serious as he glanced at Julian, who merely nodded in response.

Julian's smile disappeared as soon as it came, sending a cold chill throughout her body. She watched closely as he looked down at the nervous Ren on the ground. Slowly, he approached him.

"Julian." The beaten Ren's voice dripped with pleading. "Look, I didn't know she was with you, man. If I did, I would've backed away I swear. We stay on our side you stay on yours, right?"

"Wrong. You encroached upon my territory and my family the minute you brought that creature into my world."

"I didn't do it, man! I didn't summon it!"

"Who did? Your leader?"

The Ren's mouth opened then quickly closed as he looked at each of the members of the houses. "Please," he finally said, his voice weak and shaky.

"Every Shifter clan has a leader," Julian said, leaning toward him. "Who is the leader in the Southwest?"

The Ren shook his head, pursing his lips together.

"Come on! A flunky like you must be close to the leader. Unless you're too low on the food chain to grow your own pair of brass balls."

That was it. The Ren's demeanor suddenly changed in a flash and he spat in Julian's face. "Blow me, bloodsucker."

Julian reached down, grabbed the Ren by his collar and slammed his body into the nearest wall. He launched his fist into the Ren's face repeatedly, each with a stronger force than the last. The Ren toppled over, losing his footing as he coughed and hacked up blood. Julian calmly straightened his suit out. He joined Jace, who stood by holding a pair of leather gloves.

Ariya felt the tension rising. It was so thick in the air, she could reach out and grab it. She dug into the arm of the chair, gripping it so tight that her knuckles nearly blushed red on her dark skin. The muscles in her hand began to ache. She immediately loosened her grip. She coached herself to remain calm as she pressed her back against the chair.

"There was an APB put out two days ago," Julian said, as he slid the leather gloves on his hands. "A man, fitting your description was feeding on a young woman—in public." He went back to the weakened Ren, who was now holding his torso in a fetal position. "In front of everyone."

"I was behind an alleyway," he coughed. "I wasn't even—"

"Taunting two policemen with your fangs?" Julian raised his eyebrows. "Just like your buddy who did the same thing tonight. Was he the leader? He seemed all too ready to step forward and present himself to Ariya in the alleyway."

Ariya looked up at Julian. How did he know about that?

Suddenly, he turned his head slightly in her direction as if sensing her thoughts.

The Ren looked around at each of the Patriarchs of the Houses. Then, he turned to Ariya. His nervous expression switched to red hot anger in an instant.

"You!" He pushed off the ground and raced toward her. Ariya held her ground despite the rush of adrenaline and instinct telling her to defend herself. In the blink of an eye, the Ren ran into Jace who had practically materialized in front of her. He grabbed the Ren's shoulders while Rich took hold of his arms. Both forced him back onto the ground with a loud thud from the slam. Jace launched a kick toward the Ren's chest, then another. His handsome face brightened with a sideways smile as he chuckled softly.

Julian tightened his gloves over his hands as he reached down and grabbed the Ren, hauling him up by the collar. Slowly he cupped the shaky Ren's neck and lifted him high. "Who else knows about us?"

"N-no-nobody, man!"

"And you know this how?"

The Ren shook his head side to side. "Come on! Wh-What do you mean?"

Julian gripped his jaw tighter, holding him higher. "Assuming these officers know who you are, they know about us. Correct?"

"Well yeah—I mean no! No!"

Julian dropped the Ren to the ground with a loud thud reverberating throughout the hall. He lifted his chin toward the guard at the door to close the door and give them some privacy. After the lock clicked, he held out his hand. Jace stepped forward and placed a small capsule in Julian's gloved palm.

"I tell you what. I'm an honorable man. Not a monster. Not unless I have to be. How about I let you go if you give me the name of your leader. The very one who summoned this Elemental. And then tell me if he plans on sending out another one to finish the job."

"What leader?"

"Last chance," Julian warned with a sideways smile.

The Ren shook his head, unsure of what to say.

"W-what. Look, man." His face was drenched in sweat. His chest heaved as he looked around at all the eyes on him. Silently he pleaded for them, for anyone to help him, but they all remained still, and merely watched.

"Here, why don't I help you?" Julian placed his hands on the Ren's cranium.

Ariya felt the rush of images exchanged between them. A visage flashed in his mind; _tall, lanky and fair with greasy scraggly hair that fell just above his shoulders. His dark eyes, cloudy and empty. Silver. The one who stayed behind to fend off the cops._

Why did she get the feeling that wasn't the last time she would see him?

"Now," Julian said, breaking the connection. "A name."

The Shifter's mouth opened then closed as he hesitated. "I-I don't—"

With an exasperated sigh, Julian forced the Ren's jaw open and slipped the capsule on his tongue.

"Bite."

The Ren followed the direction and bit down. Not a moment passed before his body immediately vibrated with convulsions. He winced from the waves of pain shooting through his limbs and let out an earsplitting yell. His fingers folded like claws as he held his arms to his body bearing the vicious pain overcoming him.

Julian walked to him and hauled him up by his collar. He spoke slowly as if each word dripped like acid into his ears. "You have less than a minute to tell me exactly who your leader is, why he summoned the Elemental and when he plans to strike. And don't think for a second I'll fall for that image you just handed to me."

The Ren gulped, his Adam's apple bobbing up and down. "Raine. Our leader's name is Raine and that's all you need to know."

"The truth!"

"The truth is, Julian—you won't be the only one with Elemental powers. Not anymore. This house will burn and that Faerie witch will be the key to ending it all."

The Ren laughed wickedly. Blood poured from his eyes, mouth, nose and ears, trickling down to his clothes. "You won't know. You will _never_ know." His body arched back and screamed sharply. The sound echoed throughout the room as Julian dropped him to his knees. His body convulsed, then stilled in death.

Julian wiped his designer suit down, making sure not a spot of blood was left. "Dig in, boys."

Jace and the other Nightwalkers in the room bared their canines and approached the fallen Ren. They descended to their knees and tore the Ren's clothes to shreds, leaving him a shivering naked form. Their mouths widened and they dove into the fair, bare flesh like a swarm. Ferociously, they fed upon his dying body.

Ariya knew she shouldn't watch, but at the same time she couldn't look away. She felt the heat in her body rise as she sensed Jace's feeding. The Ren's blood flowed through his veins, nourishing him as his heart raced back to life again. At the same time, the Shifter Ren's heart slowed until it fell silent.

"Enough." Jace rose from the body, wiping his mouth. He motioned for the others to step back from the mutilated corpse.

Julian gestured for the two Lycan guards to take him away. With a grimace, he kicked at the mess left behind on his rug. "The rug was a gift from Elizabeth Woodville; King Edward IV's consort herself," Julian mumbled to no one in particular. "Worth more than your life."

"We can't let this go on without an investigation, Julian," Michael Hammond's gruff voice cut into the strained air. "I don't know if this Raine character is our man. Either way, he's still out there."

"Michael is correct," Daoine said, stepping forward. "Who knows what the other Rens have revealed to the Mortals and, if this creature's words were true, he's still planning another attack."

Julian held up his hands to calm everyone down. "We will get to the bottom of this. I give you my word. I think it's time we start closing in our line of questioning with the Rens on the street. Make sure you keep a low profile in areas populated by Mortals. The cities within this state are widely spread out, but there are still places where we need to be cautious and aware."

"I'll get some Lycan eyes and ears out on the streets," Michael said. "They'll pick up anything the Rens may be plotting."

"It's a good chance they may be keeping their leader hidden considering how big this plan is." Julian slowly paced the area. "Try to find out who this Raine person is."

Michael nodded. "Will do."

"I'll keep my men watching over the city," Daoine said folding his hands. "They're sure to see something from the skies and, if anything, they may be able to integrate with the Ren's society."

"It's worth a try, but take precautions so they won't sniff out the agents." Julian turned to look to his side. "Jace."

"Yes, Uncle?" Jace said, straightening his posture.

"I need you to do something very important for me."

Jace nodded. "Anything."

"I want you to go and have some fun," Julian said, placing his hands on his nephew's shoulder.

Jace's eyebrows rose slightly until he realized the time. He checked his watch then looked over at Rich. "Right, it's time. What about you?"

"We'll be fine. I will, however, call you if I need you."

Jace nodded and excused himself. "Ariya."

Ariya nearly jumped as Jace's voice broke through her concentration. For a moment, she felt like an invisible bystander after everything that had just happened. She couldn't even take her eyes away from Julian as he stood calmly before her. Only moments ago, his violent outburst sent a man to the grave.

Sensing her thoughts, he relaxed his gaze on her and gave her a reassuring smile. "Thank you for your help, Ariya. Without you, we wouldn't have found out as much as we did tonight."

She forced herself to nod. "My pleasure," she said softly. Finally realizing Jace standing over her, she slipped her hand into his open palm and entangled her fingers within his. She allowed his strength to help her up and they fell into step behind Rich and Gael.

Then she remembered. Jace had mentioned earlier that Rich called him the same night she returned. Apparently he had invited everyone to some kind of celebration. Despite the strange and exciting night already, she wasn't sure if she had enough strength to concentrate on the festivities.

"Hey, I'll take my bike and meet you there," Rich yelled once they stepped outside of the house. He walked over to his Harley, threw one leg over it and climbed on.

"Why not come with us?" Jace asked. "We got a big ol' limo here that can hold us all. Not to mention half the houses themselves."

"I'm good. I have to make a stop before my big entrance anyway."

"Are you ever going to tell us what we're celebrating?" Gael asked with a grin.

"Nope!" Rich said with a wider grin. "Not until the last minute. I promise you won't have to wait long. Don't worry, it's killing me as much as it is you guys."

Jace frowned. "Yeah, somehow I doubt that."

"Maybe you can catch a bite to eat before stopping in." Rich winked at Jace and Ariya before revving up his bike.

Ariya looked over at Jace, trying to keep the embarrassment from reaching her face. She knew exactly what Rich was implying and surely Jace knew as well. She had offered as much before, but he had yet to take her up on it. She shifted uncomfortably, quickly averting her gaze away.

With the loud sputtering roar of his engine filling the air, Rich wheeled his bike around and saluted before racing off into the dark streets of the night.

"That sounds like a plan," Gael said, turning to Jace. "I think I'll take a quick bite myself before I meet back with you guys."

"Oh, is that what you call your rendezvous now?" Jace asked with a gleam in his eye.

Gael lifted an eyebrow. "You walkers of the night don't get all the fun, you know. We Shifters have our own advantages. In this case, I'm starving so I really will be getting some food." He looked at Ariya and then back at Jace with a knowing smile. "You two have fun."

"Oh, we will." Jace opened the back door to the limo and helped Ariya in as Gael left to his waiting car. "After you, M'lady."

Ariya slipped in and slid over to the other side of the limo to make room for Jace. Once he climbed in, Jace tapped the roof of the limo before closing the door.

Listening to the soft hum of the engine, Ariya kept her focus ahead and her mind clear. Out of the corner of her eye, she spotted Jace watching her as he leaned on the window frame.

"What is it?" he finally asked.

"What's what?"

"You haven't said a word since we left and you're blocking your thoughts from me. Something's up."

Ariya froze, feeling Jace's fingers gently caress the side of her face. His cold fingertips awakened her warm body and she wondered if they were actually stopping so Jace could feed again.

"Why not," he answered aloud. "The night is good for it. And I could use another thrill."

She finally turned to him and watched the shadows of the streetlights dance across his ashen face. "Is that always the way the Houses do business?"

"Always. Especially if we need valuable information. Sometimes it's the only way that works."

"And the feed is just extra?"

He smirked. "Needed some kind of reward for my troubles."

Ariya reached out to touch him. Her hands gently ran along his body, feeling the hard muscle beneath his jacket and shirt. He covered her hands with his and she wondered how a soft loving, caress could come from the same hands that were capable of such a violent outburst moments ago.

He leaned back, moving his head slightly as if absorbing her thoughts.

Ariya couldn't take her eyes off him. What else did she not know about Jace Archane? The question lingered as she sat back and watched him.

Even in the shadows that covered him, he was handsome and exuded a confident charm. He leaned to the side with one leg propped up on the other. That night he wore a smoky designer suit and a crisp, white shirt partly unbuttoned from the collar down. Under the gaze of the streetlights, his shoes shined brightly like polished glass.

Ariya couldn't help feeling his gaze warm her body.

"What were you like before the change, Jace?" She blurted before she could stop herself.

He laughed softly. She couldn't figure out if the sound were mocking because of amusement or if he were brushing her off like an adult would a child asking a stupid question. Either way, it wasn't a laugh she particularly enjoyed hearing.

"Why now all of a sudden?" he finally asked.

She shrugged. "Curious."

Ariya shifted and leaned back, crossing her arms and legs in front of her. Her purple satin and black lace corset top hugged her torso snugly when she pressed her back against the leather seat. She knew he was well aware of the skirt scrunching up her leg, baring her smooth cocoa legs adorned in black leather laced knee-high boots. Her dark locks fell in a mass of curls down the length of her back and wings. She was amazed at how he spared no expense on her behalf. These clothes were rather comfortable and, although she was not used to the style, she couldn't deny how well they made her look and feel.

Those deep blue eyes of his—like two jewels—watched her closely, beaming as if he agreed with her thoughts.

There was something about the Nightwalkers. They exuded an otherworldly charm of mystique and intrigue. Traits any woman would willingly fall for. Perhaps they had perfected such personalities and abilities over the centuries.

"Do you think I'm a monster, Ariya?" Jace's low voice slipped into her mind, warming her like a gentle, intimate embrace.

"It's not my call to make."

"Because sometimes I think you may forget what I really am. Part of that is my fault. Perhaps I let myself forget for a little while when you entered my life. I've long accepted who I was some time ago."

"We should probably talk about it later," she said, straightening up. "It's rather detailed, I'm sure, and this is supposed to be a time of celebration, right?"

"Right." He focused his gaze on the view outside the window. "Before we head to the party, I need to make a stop."

"A stop?"

"Rich made a nice suggestion about getting something to eat." He caught the driver's attention in the rearview mirror and signaled for him to stop.

The limo turned off the side of the road and parked near a dark abandoned street. The cold air sent a shiver throughout Ariya's body once Jace opened the door. Instinctively, he closed it behind his back and turned to face her once he realized she still held it open. He squinted in curiosity.

"You want to watch?"

She shrugged, stepping out. "Sure, why not?" It couldn't be much different from what she had just seen.

"The feed varies, Ariya," he said. "The Ren got his justice, but that is different than a feed to survive—or for pleasure."

"Since you have already fed, that would make this stop for pleasure then."

Jace leaned back, flinching slightly as if she had slapped him with her words.

Even to her own ears, the question came out more of an accusation than anything else. She had been the only one to survive Jace's feed, as far as she knew. Judging from his tightened lips and narrowed gaze on her, he still held the curse of killing with each feed.

With a quick move of his arm, he closed the back door with a slam and turned away from her. He straightened his suit jacket and from the shadows that settled on his profile, his jaws tensed and flexed as it always did when he was frustrated.

"You may watch at a safe distance," he said, his words tight. "But do not interfere. Remember this was your choice."

Before she could respond, he stepped away and entered the darkened street ahead. Ariya pushed away the feeling that she was some meager attendant trailing behind her King after receiving a firm scolding.

She bit her tongue. This was going to be a long night.

A building sat near the edge of the sidewalk. From what she remembered, this part of downtown was rather quiet and desolate this time of night. A perfect time for a Nightwalker's feeding.

Sensing a presence near, Ariya ducked to the side of the building to watch Jace move in on his prey. The figure was a pretty streetwalker with a long fur coat and shiny ringlets of dark hair that fell around her shoulders. In the days she grew closer to Jace, Ariya learned to cloud her thoughts so he couldn't easily read her. During that time, she learned to enter his when he wasn't focused on her. Snippets of a conversation played like an old tape in Jace's mind, sometimes even when he was dreaming. She couldn't understand all of it, but she caught bits and pieces which she tried to assemble like a puzzle.

If I made her one of us—will that make a difference?

You have never made a Nightwalker before. You haven't the experience.

Well, I guess some things can always be learned, can't they Uncle?

Would he really turn her into one of them? A Nightwalker? What would happen to her people? Her guards and friends—

She couldn't leave them behind. If she were turned like Jace, the ability to cross realms would be lost to her. She may never even see the beautiful, bright sunlight of day again.

She swallowed. Nor could she bear children from what she understood of his kind.

In her studies about vampires, which Nightwalkers closely resembled, they were the undead through and through. They weren't like the Aziza or any other creatures in that they could reproduce their own kind the same way Mortals did. Their young would never grow from youth to adulthood and continue the cycle of life. They produced another way, by assimilating other kinds and making them Nightwalkers themselves. The process could surely apply to children, but how could she live with the idea of an undead child stuck in its childlike form for the rest of its days?

How would her Aziza Fairy blood handle the transformation? Or the need to consume other types of blood to sustain living?

Looking up, she pushed the questions aside and focused on Jace moving closer to the woman who smiled and giggled at his inaudible words. She coyly brushed a stray lock of curls behind her ear while peering up at Jace through long, lush eyelashes. Jace leaned in toward her lips and she responded by moving in to hungrily take his waiting kiss. He moved back slightly, careful not to touch her until that last moment when she needed to have him.

Ariya forced herself to breathe. This was the first time she watched him feed since she offered her own blood to save him, the Ren notwithstanding. He was fully aware of her presence as his hands roamed the streetwalker's curvy thighs. The woman's body moved against his as if hoping to raise the flesh between his legs. Jace's hands clutched her throat, eliciting a surprised exhale from her lips. He gave a deep throaty laugh to calm her. Only when she chuckled back did he open his grip to cradle her face in his palm. He held her gaze and she watched him with intensity rising each second.

Ariya's heart beat fast deep within her chest, echoing the woman's heart. Sweat formed on her palms. She couldn't take her eyes off the intimate act even if she wanted.

Jace gently turned the woman's head to the side to free her soft, curved neck for the feed. He turned her around to face Ariya, giving her a full view. Their eyes met in that moment as Jace bared his sharp fangs before piercing the streetwalker's neck.

Ariya felt the transfer of energy emanating from the streetwalker's body as Jace claimed her. His hard body pressed against hers. His hands gripped her stomach as he slowly sucked the life from within her, his lips caressed her skin like a lover's kiss around the contours of her neck. A deep animal groan escaped from his throat and his desire for more grew with each second. A heightened pleasure devoured the woman's body from the deepest sensitive area between her legs and throughout her limbs. The pain of his sharp, thin fangs buried within her mixed with the soft, caress of his hands slipping over her thighs, stomach and finally her firm breasts. Jace jutted his hips against the curvature of the streetwalker's buttocks. Ariya could tell he was aroused from the feed as the blood pumped through his veins. His heart, blood, veins and his sex came to life in seconds.

The woman's face contorted from the torturous pleasure as death slowly claimed her. She slipped a hand down to Jace's leg and between his thighs, rubbing the hot flesh crushed between them. Jace tilted his head to look straight into Ariya's eyes as he sucked harder and drank faster. He moved his hips against the woman's grip as his own release called near. Never did he look away as he dared Ariya to hold his gaze through the motions. His pleasure rose and just as the woman moaned deeply, a sharp gasp escaped her lips and her eyes flashed open as she realized what happened.

It was too late.

The streetwalker's limp body remained lifeless, Jace raised his head from her. He wiped his mouth and quickly crooked his arm under her knees to lift her.

Ariya finally broke her gaze from the scene as if waking from a deep trance. Before the questions returned, another popped in its place. "You want me to call, Angel?"

Jace remained silent as he kneeled down to place the dead body in a dark crevice of the building.

"I'll do it," he said softly, almost to himself. He hung his head, watching the solemn expression of the dead woman partly lit by the streetlight's shadow.

"You feel sorrow for her," Ariya said in a conclusive tone.

Jace reached down to gently close the woman's eyes. "From one death passes on to give another's life," he said. "At least that's what I keep telling myself."

He stood and walked away from her. She had many questions swirling around her mind as he went into the shadows and unzipped his pants. Feeling her curiosity get the best of her, Ariya followed him as the sound of liquid dripping onto the pavement filled the air. Was he urinating? After more shuffling, he shook his hips a little and zipped his pants back up again.

Jace was quiet as he exited the shadows and went into the light. He straightened his suit, careful to hide the bulge between his legs as best he could with the jacket. Then he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small rectangular pack of wet cloth. Ripping it open, he pulled out the cloth from inside. His eyes remained on hers as he wiped his hands.

"You'll have to excuse me. Sometimes when you have to go, you have to go." He chuckled.

"Jace, how—"

"Sometimes Mortals have more in common with animals than they ever realized. I suppose the same could be said for Nightwalkers and bats, as you may have read from your studies. No time for a physiology lesson right now. We can't be late for Rich's party. He'll massacre us on the spot."

Ariya couldn't help wondering about what rules applied here. What would happen to the woman's spirit? In her world, Human and Aziza spirits were transferred from one body to another after death so they may live again and continue their purpose.

But things were different in the Mortal realm. She wasn't sure how to take it, nor Jace's other actions that night.

Here was a man who literally sucked the life from humans so that he may continue to live, leaving the fallen with a trapped spirit in death.

She sensed Jace's body tighten as her words rushed through his mind. For some reason, she didn't care whether or not he read her thoughts. Perhaps it was best he knew how she felt now before it was too late.

Ariya climbed in the backseat after Jace opened the door. Joining her, he dialed the number to the Necro Cerberus and waited for the other end to pick up.

# Chapter 14

Raine stormed across the large, sleek hall feeling as if fire instead of blood ran through his veins. Blakedon wasn't going to like the news he had to share. That Faerie witch had gone and aligned herself with the Ashen Twilight House. Freakin' self-appointed lawmakers of the immortal world. As if they didn't have enough problems already.

He sneered at the modern architecture decorating the former office building. He hated coming here. Might as well be one of those sterile homes in those stiff designer catalogs the Humans loved so much. He hated it because it reminded him too much of those high and mighty House members. He gritted his teeth, running his nails along the wall as he continued down the hall. Blakedon had no business trying to emulate them, no matter how close he had been to Julian in the past. And that Faerie whore did nothing to help his situation. The more he thought about the outcome, the more he wanted to dig his sharp claws into her tender little neck while Jace Archane watched. He'd give anything to see the look on the Nightwalker's eyes as he broke her down right in front of him.

He angled the corner with a smile as the thought continued. Peeking over his shoulder, he nodded toward what was left of their team that followed him. He climbed the steps up to Blakedon's office two at a time. He didn't even wait to knock before he pushed the door open and stepped in.

The large brown leather office chair slowly turned around, revealing a small weasel of a man. Interesting. Although this guy was in his Human form now, his usual choice of animal to shift into was no doubt—a weasel. It'd be amusingly ironic if it weren't so sad.

"Where's Blakedon!" Raine barked.

"Down at Ellis's home. I don't think you should bother him tonight, though."

"Yeah, tough."

Raine gestured over his shoulder for his men to turn around.

"Wait! He gave me specific instructions for you to wait here! Come back!" The weasel's high voice drifted into the hall as Raine stomped away. He would get to Blakedon tonight whether he had to fight his way across town or not.

****

The three-story residential structure was situated near downtown Scottsdale among the expensive mansions of its kind. A row of parked cars sat outside while the owners conversed, drank and partied inside. Blakedon made his way through the crowded living room to the massive master suite with Avery following close behind. He'd planned to wait for Raine's return back at his office, but after Avery had said the meeting was urgent, he left right away. Hopefully this wouldn't take long. He had some important business news he was waiting to hear updates on. Even though they were in the exclusive home of their leader, Alexandru Drago, he couldn't figure out what this meeting concerned. And at this time of night, no less.

"Tell Blakedon he can come in now."

The hoarse, Romanian accent echoed out in the hallway before he made it to the top of the steps. Wonderful. This had to be something big. The Shifter at the door quickly bowed and rushed away.

Blakedon felt Avery's nervous gaze on him and patted his shoulder with reassurance. "This shouldn't take long," he said with a small smile. "Just let me handle everything."

He continued to the room.

The large double doors led to a huge, open spaced bedroom with a high vaulted ceiling and a crackling fireplace in the corner. Antique furniture with small accents that looked ancient themselves decorated the room. A large bed with dark silk covers sat on the other side, enclosed by two cherry wood end tables. Soft beige carpet gave the area a comforting feeling.

"Shoes. Take them off."

Blakedon quickly removed his shoes and tossed them to the side. Then he waited for Avery to do the same.

"All right. Shoes are off."

A shapely woman stepped out wearing a black dress. Perhaps calling it a dress would be rather too generous for the small material that was strategically placed over her body. It looked more like a piece of cloth. Not that he was complaining at all. She looked at them with a smile on her face and a glass of champagne in her hand. She said nothing as she slowly made her way over to the King sized bed and lay across it, crossing one leg over the other.

Blakedon took a quick survey of each and every curve of her body before pulling himself away to the man that stepped out to meet them.

Alexandru Drago stood at medium height. He wasn't a handsome man by any conventional means, but he exuded a special something that made him appealing in a mysterious sort of way. Instead of the old armor, tunics and robes they once wore, he now sported an expensive tailored black suit and high-priced black spit-polished shoes to match. His face was wide with a set of small dark eyes that focused hard on the person to which he spoke. The man must have traveled many places outside of his home in Romania and still he held onto his old world accent. Blakedon remembered asking about it one time and the old man had replied that he refused to give in to what he called "foreigner's speech".

Blakedon bowed to give his respect to one of the oldest Shifters in existence. "I came as soon as I received the message."

"I appreciate your haste." Alexandru's small eyes widened upon seeing Avery at his side. "And you brought, whom I assume is your son?"

"Yes," Blakedon turned to the young Nightwalker at his side and smiled proudly. "This is my son, Avery. He had asked about you once after your meeting at the Inn that morning."

"The Inn." Drago's gaze fell to the ground as he ruminated over the time and place. "Ah yes. After Jeanette had given him the gift." He turned to Avery and looked him over with appreciation. "I have been watching you both progress through the ages. Our prince would have been very proud had he lived to see this day. You will need what you have learned for the task ahead."

Blakedon cleared his throat. "And what exactly is this task?"

Drago walked over to the wet bar across the room to fix a drink. The loud clank of ice against glass mixed with his words as he continued. "You've taken on an ambitious task after what our prince has started with the Fae. I commend you for that. I know you have learned from our prince how to extend your life with immortal blood. Now we have the advantage of the Elemental power."

"We do. The Houses managed to destroy the one that absorbed the Fae powers, but I know how to summon another one for us."

Drago poured a glass of dark, bronze liquor, filling it halfway. "I was there when our prince attempted it the first time. Some of my family died in the massacre. After that battle, I learned a few lessons in gaining and keeping power. All of which I am prepared to share with you." He took a thoughtful sip of his drink before continuing. "You've taken this to a whole new level, Liam. I have no doubt now that you are capable of leading the Southwest."

Blakedon repeated the words in his mind to make sure he heard correctly. Leading the Southwest. What a pleasant tone that had to it. "I've been speaking with other Shifters around the area. We're not as organized as Daoine Oberon, but that doesn't matter. With a new elemental creature, we will be able to overcome him by sheer numbers and power."

Drago focused his gaze on Blakedon as he pointed to him. "Do not underestimate Daoine's skills and influence. He has lived as long as I have and amassed much knowledge over the centuries. His associates are wise in their dealings and will be tough to dismantle. But they will crumble."

"How?"

"Our Shifters are more thirsty for power. They recognize that the sacks of flesh who populate these cities act as if they own the world. But they are nothing but food and as soon as we assert our power, they will fall to their knees. Amass our own numbers and watch as Daoine and his men rush to help the pitiful Mortals. Try as they might, they can't be in two places at once."

"What about the Fae girl?"

Drago laughed, flashing his white elongated fangs before taking another sip. "She is scared. Innocent. Ripe for the plucking. The fact that she came over here alone proves how easily we can take over her. The Houses know even less than we do about the Fae, but we know how to get more like her to cross over. Once we have them, we immediately become stronger."

Blakedon grinned. "I like the sound of that."

"I thought you would."

Avery shifted at his side, obviously bored from the conversation. Blakedon turned to him and smacked him on the chest. "Listen up, boy. This will be your legacy one day."

The younger Nightwalker defiantly lifted his head and pursed his lips, remaining silent.

"Forgive him, my liege. I'm sure he'd rather be running the streets right now hunting for prey."

Drago looked between the two and laughed. "Understandable. I was young once myself."

"Some of my men are summoning another Elemental as we speak. As soon as we have it, we'll send it back to the Fae realm."

"No need. We have the one we want. Now your task is to bring her here."

"How? She's always surrounded by the Archanes and is protected by the Houses."

Drago walked over to Blakedon, placed his hand on his shoulder and matched his gaze. "Wait. The time will present itself to you when you shall take her. It won't be long. I want you to keep me abreast on your progress at all times."

Blakedon nodded. "Will do, Sir Drago." Taking his cue, he turned and caught Avery's gaze before gesturing that they should leave.

Blakedon finally released the breath he was holding when they stepped out of the room. Thankfully, that was over. Now, it was back to getting some things done. The cool night air was a welcome change to the stifling warmth of the mansion. He hated to admit that Drago was intimidating at all, but the old Shifter had lived so many years and seen much in his time.

A large Shifter Ren waited by the car and stood up straight when he saw them approaching. Right away, he opened the door for Blakedon to climb in the front seat while Avery joined him on the passenger side.

"So that's the oldest Shifter, huh?" Avery said leaning on the window frame. He laughed shaking his head. "Man, I could squash him with my shoe."

"Try it and you'll be pulling your limbs and intestines off the floor. Don't mess with him. He deserves a little more respect. Drago is one of the oldest Shifters. He knew Daoine Oberon since before you and I were brought into this world. He may just be the oldest immortal."

Blakedon started the car and turned down the street as a man jumped in front of them with his hands out. Slamming his foot on the break sent the car screeching to a halt, testing the seat belts. "What the—

The figure had scraggly, greasy hair. Small tired eyes stared back at him. Raine. He jabbed at the door panel to lower the driver's side window.

"Are you insane, Raine?"

A few more Shifters joined Raine's side as he leaned in to talk to Blakedon. "House attack on the Rens tonight. It was a setup. That Faerie led us right into their hands."

"What?"

"Jace Archane was waiting right there for an ambush. His little Faerie whore took out some of our men after she led us right into their hands. Any survivors were probably taken, most likely to be interrogated."

Blakedon slammed his hand on the steering wheel with a curse on his lips. Interrogated. Yeah, he knew exactly what that meant.

"Why didn't you get some reinforcements and take care of them?" Avery said leaning forward.

"Do I look like the armed forces?" Raine scoffed and shook his head. "I didn't have a freakin' team on call, I didn't even have enough time to summon backup before the cops came."

"Cops?" Blakedon said.

"Yeah, man. Sirens everywhere. They must have heard our little scuffle."

Blakedon grabbed Raine's collar. He yanked the Shifter so fast, Raine nearly collided into the top of the door frame. "Did they see you?

Raine shook his head rapidly. "Naw, they didn't see us. I'm not an idiot, Blakedon, I know how to keep out of sight."

"Obviously not as well as you thought since you alerted the Mortals." He studied Raine's eyes, watching for any subtle movements that said he was lying. A low growl rumbled in his chest and he felt Raine move back upon hearing it.

Blakedon pushed him away, releasing his grasp. "I want you to stay out of the House's way for now. You go nowhere near them. In fact, stay in my office until I tell you to come out."

"But Blakedon—"

"Do. As. I. Say." Blakedon felt his jaw tense as he spoke each word carefully, making sure Raine knew the consequences if he didn't follow directions. "I will come get you when I need you. Once the time comes, you will move in on this Faerie so we can finish the job. You got it?"

Raine nodded slowly and held his hands up in a surrender. "Yeah, man. I got you."

Blakedon revved his car engines, signaling they were through speaking. He wasted no time slamming his foot on the brakes, abandoning the two Shifters in the middle of the road.

# Chapter 15

Rich's home was like the 19th-century Victorian gothic homes Ariya saw in books from her studies. It was a large, white two-story house surrounded by with earthy green glades—unusual for the area—French decorated doors and windowpanes. A large green lawn surrounded the front with tall trees to give shade in the summer. It didn't really matter considering the houses would be relocating soon. Even if they did stay in the shade, it would merely provide cover but not an ounce of relief from Arizona's choking heat.

Jace pocketed the cell phone as the limo pulled up behind a parked line of cars. He left a message on Angel's answering machine. No doubt she was probably running around the city on call. Usually, she would answer on the first few rings and welcome him with some kind of quip to the start of their repartee. Perhaps the streets were filled this time of night with feedings from the renegades since most of the houses were at Rich's celebration party.

"You ready?"

Jace turned to Ariya and noticed she watched him with dark yet hesitant sultry eyes. He nodded once and slipped out of the limo, turning around to help her out. He couldn't bring himself to say much on the ride over. What could he say? He had used the prostitute as a stand-in for the woman he really wanted. And yet he still couldn't control his urges.

He cursed himself for that and so much more. After five hundred years of living, Jace learned never to get close to anyone. Love—whether with family or a romantic interest—always fades. Whether it was taken from him by the hands of another or by time itself, it never lasted. It happened to his parents and all the women he ever encountered. That's why he took what he needed and moved on. Never did he entertain the thought of taking a bride or life-mate in the House. In fact, before Ariya came, he was perfectly content with his life of expendable women, parties and all the feedings he could ever want. No one survived his feed before Ariya and he had finally gotten used to the fact.

But she had lived. And he thirsted for her blood more and more each day.

The very thought scared him more than anything had in his life.

Jace pushed those thoughts away as his gaze roamed over her warm cocoa body. He was relieved when she took his hand and stepped from the limo. She was beautiful tonight in her silk corset top and dark skirt. It reminded him of the ladies-in-waiting of court. They would breathe in extra deep whenever he passed by, just to make sure their heaving bosoms caught his wandering gaze. Ariya was different. There was a certain naiveté she held from the time they met in that fateful alleyway. A mix of curiosity about the new world around her and a quiet confidence in herself as a leader. It was intoxicating.

The door swung open as they stepped onto the porch.

Jace's expression dropped once he saw the tall, blond broad shouldered man towering over him.

"Jace Archane," Vex said, his jaw tensing. "Rich forgot to mention that a certain piss eating bloodsucker was going to show his ugly mug around here tonight."

Jace kept his composure as he righted himself and smiled back. "Well, that makes two of us, considering I'm the one who's been by his side since before you were born."

Vex's skin changed in seconds from a light tan to dark red. A deep, unearthly growl rumbled in his throat. Jace growled in response, opening his mouth to reveal a pair sharp, menacing white fangs. The two men moved toward each other, fists primed and ready at their sides.

"Boys," Ariya said, moving between them. She smiled. "Please calm yourselves. You are both here for Rich. This is supposed to be a celebration, remember?"

Vex kept his eyes on Jace as he moved aside to let them through. "Only because Rich invited you and seems to trust you."

Jace gave no indication that Vex's words impacted him in any way. He kept calm and cool as he straightened his suit and walked past Vex.

Outside may have been Victorian, but inside it was fully modern. White stucco walls lined the interior with warm accents of brown and shades of blues. The decor was purely masculine with sparse accents to accommodate the dark wood furniture. Everything looked spotless from top to bottom. Despite not having much decoration, it felt like home.

Jace held his head high and straightened his suit out. He reached down to Ariya's hand and was glad when she didn't pull away. Without missing a beat, he lifted her soft hand to his lips and kissed it gently. "Thank you for calming things down. I guess he still thinks I moved in on his territory."

Ariya yanked her hand away. "Probably because you did, remember? Or did you forget that I was the one to discover you both intimate on the couch before she attacked me?"

"Ariya, I—"

"Hey! You guys made it!" Rich was all smiles when he threw his meaty arms around them in a bear hug. "I was waiting for you guys to show up!"

"I thought we were going to escort you to the club," Jace said, struggling to catch his breath. When Rich let go, he stretched his collar out to give his neck some room. Even after all these centuries, the Lycan forgot his strength when emotion got the best of him. He leaned in and lowered his voice. "I didn't know the caveman would be coming along with us."

Rich chuckled. "Nah, actually we were gathering preparations for the _Guerre de la Nuit_. It completely slipped my mind to warn you ahead of time."

Jace's eyes widened. "Whoa, wait. The _Guerre de la Nuit_ so soon?"

"I had to keep it under wraps until the date and everything was final," Rich said. "Believe me, I wanted to tell you guys. The stress nearly killed me. And speaking of..." He shrugged, sheepishly. "I apologize for blowing up at you days ago when Ariya arrived. This was part of the reason I was so on edge."

"Normally I would be offended and holding a grudge, but considering how much you have on your mind, I'll let that one slide." Jace winked and tapped a fist against Rich's arm.

A sneaky smile curled Rich's lips as his gaze darted between the two. "Well, now it's all paid off. The time has come. I'm getting stuff prepped and ready to go here, but I'll meet you outside for the escort on over. I want my buds alongside me representing our territory as we ride in. By the by..." He reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell before dialing. "Gael better get his lovesick tail on over here for the entrance."

He continued mumbling as he wandered off to make his call.

Jace shook his head and turned. His gaze fell on Vex, who was eyeing him across the way while folding his beefy arms over his chest. Later that night he would set the record straight and end this feud between them. It had been weeks since Shelly died and he was a different person then. Or so he'd like to think.

"Then tell him the truth," Ariya said next to him.

He turned to face her. "What?"

"Vex thinks that you stole Shelly, but the truth is she wanted you more than she wanted him."

"How do you know this?"

She shrugged. "I'm developing a keen ability to read minds and sense feelings."

"Now I'm the one who's going to have to watch his thoughts," he mumbled. He tried to lace the words with humor, but failed.

Jace shifted uncomfortably, remembering his closeness with Shelly so long ago. Never had he thought that she'd be interested in more than just a fling with him. She also seemed so carefree and easygoing toward him. It didn't appear to bother her that he wasn't in it for the long term.

A sting of guilt shot through him. No matter how much time passed him by, fragments of the past always remained in his mind and heart. Perhaps he should make amends with all who were connected with Shelly's fate that night. Vex, himself and especially Ariya.

"You shouldn't have found us together that night," Jace said, not daring to look at Ariya.

Ariya's eyes widened in surprised and she stepped away from him. "You regret me being there?"

"No." Jace shook his head. "Knowing you and everything that has happened since then, I wouldn't have invited Shelly over. There are many things I wish I would have done differently in life, Ariya. The past is not something I can erase and rewrite. I learn from it and move on. Perhaps with the future will come a chance to amend the past." He turned on his heels and stepped out. The familiar soft scent of flowers and comfort that always reminded him of Ariya drifted away as the distance grew between them.

She wasn't behind him when he stepped across the threshold and outside the house.

*

Ariya watched Jace leave and didn't bother to follow him. She was angry at him for what he put her through earlier that night. Still, his words were sincere. He hadn't shown his vulnerable side since the night she left. True, they didn't exactly have a positive meeting that first night. But he had saved her from those wolf creatures— _Rens_ —and to some extent she wanted to believe she had saved him from thinking he was condemned to forever be alone. The way he looked at her tonight during the feed told her he cared and wanted her, but still refused to let himself give in. Would he ever dare take a chance on them?

She started walking before she had a chance to stop herself.

Outside, the moon hung high in the night sky. Jace stood on the lawn with his hands in his pockets and his gaze fixated on the stars above. There was no use in sneaking up behind a Nightwalker unless she cloaked herself.

" _Guerre de la Nuit_ ," Ariya said as she stopped behind Jace. "I didn't realize Rich knew French."

Jace turned to face her with the shadow of a smile on his lips. "We both grew up learning many languages over the centuries. My father fought alongside French knights after their integration with the Highland warriors. With it came the rise of burghs. The first legally defined towns in Scotland, that is. The immigrants brought French and English to the burghs while most of Scotland kept their Gaelic roots. Present company included. Besides, when one is in the presence of an Archane, it tends to leave a lasting impression on them."

Ariya stifled a grin. "I'm not going to even touch that one, so carry on."

He cleared his throat. "Right. So, the Hammonds are English by origin but are very experienced linguists. We have Scottish ancestors on my father's side. My mother was French as was my Aunt Marie, who was once married to Julian. It was necessary to know of other cultures in the world for our families and our position in society, according to the station we held."

"Sounds like the Aziza."

Jace tilted his head to the side. "You never speak much of your family, Ariya."

"You never asked."

He gently ran cold fingertips up her arm leaving a trail of goosebumps on her skin. "Consider the question now posed before you."

Ariya swallowed deeply and didn't bother to cloak any thoughts or feelings he may sense within her. She remembered the events clearly. A shallow pain settled in her chest as she thought of her family. _Once a tight string of bonds, now a severed, disconnected cord._ Life was comfortable back then with her sisters. Assist the hunters and see to maintaining a calm life in the palace town. The sweetness of nature was all around them. Life and death made sense in its continuous cycle. Now everything had been turned upside down and she barely knew what to make of each day.

"Ariya, I am sorry." Jace's icy hand on her arm pulled her out of her thoughts.

"All right!" Rich yelled as he burst out the front door and jumped down from the top of the steps. "Let's get this party on the road!" He looked to Jace as he came down the walkway. "Ready when you are."

"We'll pick this up later," Jace whispered to Ariya as they started back to the limo.

Rich and his Lycan pack climbed on their bikes as Jace helped Ariya in the back seat. A symphony of motorcycle engines roared to life, signaling the start of what was to be a very entertaining evening.

*

Several minutes later, the caravan pulled up outside the Torch with Rich heading up the rear. Bright, red electric lights formed the word "Torch" above the entrance door leading into the mouth of darkness. People came and went, passing the large bouncer who gave a single nod in greeting.

Rich parked and rushed over to Jace, knocking on the window. He gestured for him to lower it. "I'm going to run inside and see if I can find my surprise. Meet me in a few moments."

He didn't wait for Jace's response before dashing to the club.

Jace turned to Ariya, shaking his head. "This is definitely something big.

"Why do you say that?"

"I haven't seen him that excited in ages. Come on. We better get in there before he starts without us."

Ariya grinned and followed Jace to the club. Tonight was a special night and no matter what would happen in the coming days, she would enjoy Rich's celebration. She had to admit it, the big Lycan had grown on her. She watched Jace share a greeting with the beefy guard whom he acknowledged as Lu, a Lycan. Inside, the dark, crowded club was packed with Nightwalkers, Lycans and Shifters enjoying the music and the night. By now she easily sensed them in their human form thanks to their distinct scents.

"Jace, may I ask you something?"

He reached back to grab her hand, keeping her close to him as he led her through the crowd. He turned to the side and answered. "Uh-huh."

"It's rather important."

He stopped and turned to give her his full attention. "What is it?"

"I just have to ask...what exactly is worn under kilts?" She tried to keep a straight face until Jace smiled. Her resolve broke down right away as she fell into a fit of laughter.

"A serious question, huh?"

"Yes, I thought it rather serious," she cleared her throat, sobering. "For research purposes and such."

"Oh, research." Jace inhaled sharply and wiped the smile from his face. "Nothing."

"Nothing..." She leaned in waiting for him to continue when her face dropped. "Oh, you mean nothing as in...."

"As in, I just may demonstrate later on considering how the evening goes."

Ariya's eyes widened and her mouth fell in shock. "Jace!"

He laughed and gestured toward the bar. "A drink," he said with a sly grin. "I think we could both use one."

They took the two recently empty seats in the middle of the bar. Ariya whispered her order to Jace, a drink she had seen someone order.

Jace raised his hand to call over Ben the bartender.

"Apple Martini, and the usual for me."

"Coming up, Jace."

Ariya took a moment to people-watch while Jace caught up with Ben. The room pulsed with an electronic beat, energizing the dancers on the floor and conversationalists at the tables. Small shards of light served as stars, illuminating the crowd. The large moon still hung from the ceiling of the dance floor. Soon it would be changing in cycles to half moon, quarter and then full for the Lycan members.

She smiled to herself, remembering the inside joke Jace told her last time. Part of her anticipated the united howling to come.

"Comfortable?"

Ariya turned to look at Jace who had focused his attention on her once again. She nodded. "Yes, thank you." She scooted backward on the stool to get more comfortable. "So, you never told me what _Guerre de la Nuit_ meant. I can partly guess from the translation; night war?"

"Correct. It's a pre-mating ceremony before the two tie the knot, so to speak. The male Lycan proves his worth to his female mate by battling the strongest in the pack."

"Which doesn't include Michael, naturally."

Jace turned his head as Ben slid their drinks over. "Thanks, man. Right, not the Patriarch for obvious reasons. Here."

Ariya reached over her shoulder to grab her drink.

"Bottoms up."

She turned her head slightly to the side, her brow furrowing.

Jace opened his palm and lifted it. "Means drink up."

"Ah." Bottoms up, then. She took a drink and waited. The sweet taste mixed with the pungent tang of alcohol. Hmm, interesting. It reminded her of the last drink. Cranberry, lime and something else boosted the taste. The alcohol was faint on her tongue. To Mortals, it would intoxicate their bloodstream right away but for Fae, it did little to her perception. She didn't want to test how many drinks would finally alter her senses, but it would surely take tons. "Mmm. Not horrid, but not as good as the cranberry."

Jace frowned and shook his head. "I don't know how you can drink that stuff," he said, raising the full glass of dark red blood to his lips.

"I would have to say the same." Ariya turned away before she could see him fully digest a gulp.

The music lowered to silence as the crowd broke out into a roar. All eyes focused on the entrance where Rich stood with his arm around a beautiful young woman with a honey brown complexion and bright hazel eyes. She had a youthful but striking face complemented by her raven dark hair that fell down her back.

"There's the man of the hour now." Jace raised his hands, breaking out into a loud clap and whistle which inspired a chorus of cheers from those around him.

Rich held his hand up and took a little bow. Once he spotted Jace, his eyes widened. "Hey, Jace! Come on over here!"

Jace took Ariya's hand and led her through the crowd. He embraced Rich in a tight hug and a slap on the back. As the hug broke, Jace glanced at the woman next to Rich.

"Right! Well, please allow me to introduce you to my surprise—Joanna Blackfox, my betrothed and soon to be mate. Joanna this is Jace Archane and Ariya."

"Nice to finally meet you both," Joanna said with a smile. "I've heard so much about you."

"Charmed. We hope to hear more about you in the coming days." Jace said before placing a kiss on her hand.

"Well, thank you for saying." Joanna smacked Rich's chest. "How come you didn't charm me like that the first time we met, Rich?"

Rich brushed a hand over his hair. "Because I'm a Lycan and not an extra from Interview with the Vampire?"

Joanna sucked her teeth and poked him in the stomach.

Ariya chuckled as she watched them. There was a natural chemistry between Joanna and Rich. Even though she had just met, Joanna, it was easy to see why Rich was drawn to her. "So, have you two set a date for the big day?"

Joanna and Rich exchanged glances before looking at each other.

"Yeah...it's actually tomorrow," Rich said. "We want this to be a small private affair."

"A small private—" Jace scoffed. "Not for the Regent in the House of Lycan. Your Uncle won't hear of it."

"There is one matter we wanted to take care of first." Rich turned to Joanna.

Catching his gaze, she understood right away. "Well, you guys go on and talk." She grabbed and smacked Rich's rear before pinching it. "It'll give us girls some time to get acquainted."

Rich slid his arm around her, pulling her in for a kiss before returning the smack. "Will do."

Joanna gave him a parting wink before slipping her arm around Ariya's shoulders, leading her away.

"Drinks are required!!" Rich led Jace to the bar where he ordered two drinks. In moments, Ben slid over a full glass to Rich and passed another over to Jace. "Here, you look like you could use a bit of this for the question I'm about to ask you."

"Oh, this sounds good." Jace threw back the drink, swallowing a big gulp. "Ah, animal blood. This must be heavy. Okay, hit me."

"I want you to be my best man, Jace."

Jace leaned on the bar. "Wow. Best man—I'm—I'm speechless. You're not going to ask Michael? He's like a father to you."

"Actually, I was hoping he would oversee the ceremony. I mean it when I said I want it to be a small thing, Jace. No big deal."

"And what does Joanna think?"

Rich shrugged. "She agrees. We want to get it over with so we can start a family."

Jace's mouth fell open. He had to be careful not to drop his glass from the shock. "What?"

"We want to start on the heirs to line up the next Regents." He chuckled, beaming like a schoolboy.

"I should say so, well congratulations on sealing the deal. I'll be there tomorrow."

"We'll rendezvous at the Ashen Twilight House before heading over. Nine p.m. sharp."

Jace nodded. "Got it. So, this makes complete sense. Something this big, I can see why you've been so distant and, ah, well let's just call a spade a spade—so pissy lately."

Rich snorted as he held his hand up to signal Ben for another drink. "Yeah, that's the reason. I had to make sure everything was in order with the Eastern faction of the House of Lycan before I could talk about it. Besides, Joanna had doubts betrothing herself to a Lycan Regent of another house."

"Wait a minute—she's—"

"Oh, she's Lycan no doubt, but it's a big thing to her. She's a private person and was nervous about being in the spotlight like this."

Jace followed his best friend's gaze over to Ariya and Joanna chatting in the middle of the dance floor as they moved to the music. Both exuded a glow and he took pride in the fact that his best friend would be settling down to share his life with the woman he loved.

"Whoa," Rich grabbed his glass from Ben. "I know that look. Things not going well with Ariya?"

"Nah, it's not that." Jace thoughtfully ran his fingertips along the rim of his glass. "Okay, well, part of it is that. I don't think Julian should have let her stay and watch us work. I mean, I understand he needed her help and all. At least she could've waited outside. I think it got her a bit freaked and I don't know how I feel about her seeing that side of us." He took a sip of his drink, unsure if he should tell Rich the other thing. Crap, if he wasn't going to tell at least one of his best friends, who else would he tell? "Plus, she watched me feed earlier."

Rich's eyes widened. "What? You let her _watch_ you feed? Why, man?"

Jace shrugged. "Because she asked."

"Whoa. Hold up a second. Women ask for a ton of things that they know they don't want the answer to. Should I eat this chocolate cake? Does my butt look big in these jeans? Can I watch you feed on some random chick off the street? I mean, come on Jace."

"I thought she was curious and wanted to know! I even tried to project the feed to her so she felt what the woman felt."

Rich smacked his forehead and fell back against the bar. "Oh, no. No. No. You didn't."

"Yeah, I did."

"Man, Jace. I feel like I failed you. No, no. Scratch that, I _did_ fail you. Maybe I've been too busy to teach you the ways of women today."

"I know the ways of women."

"Yeah, in the feed. This is a special woman we're talking about here. To have her watch you feed off some chick off the street and project that intimacy to her is a betrayal, man. It doesn't matter your intentions. I see the way you look at her and her at you. This isn't just some minor crush, there is something brewing between you two."

Jace turned to Ariya, who was losing herself in the dance as she talked with Joanna. "Yeah...I think you're right."

"What do you mean. I know I'm right. You have to learn to let those defenses down and trust yourself with her. I mean Jace, you've been closed off for too long not trusting anyone. Maybe Ariya is your chance to break those walls down and have a life."

Jace turned back to his best friend who took a few more sips of his drink. "Not even an old married man and already trying to fix me up."

"What can I say? I want everyone as happy as me and my baby." He turned to Joanna and whistled to her. When she turned to face him, she gave a little extra wiggle in her dance. "Look at her. Mate for life. I love the sound of that." He turned back to his drink and grabbed it. "Well, considering what you told me tonight, I can say one thing."

"What's that?"

"At least you got over that whole Steve thing."

Jace's body tensed at the name. Not a day after dropping the college kid off, he called Rich to tell him what happened that night. Expecting Rich to blow up at him, he was surprised when his friend sounded exasperated at best and disappointed at worst. "Almost forgot about that."

He waved Jace off. "Look, the things I knew about him that his father covered up daily could fill a football field. Yeah, he was one of my kids, but you had to do what you have to for survival and to save the life of another. We all had to do it for centuries now. Apparently from what I've heard, she wasn't the first he drugged and took advantage of at one of these parties."

"I could have stayed home and had one of my bottles."

Rich nodded. "And yet you chose not to. Who knows, maybe you saved a young lady's life in exchange for his."

Jace sighed as he turned to watch Ariya dance. Perhaps Rich was right. The girl could have died or carried the effects of that night with her forever if Steve continued. From what he remembered, the physical assault caused a bruise but thankfully no permanent damage. If Steve kept it up, she would have surely lost hearing in that ear.

"Have you asked Julian about Ariya since you guys talked about the transformation?" Rich said, pulling Jace out of his thoughts.

Jace shook his head. "Not at all. It's been on my mind a lot, though. He's right on one thing. I've never born a Nightwalker before. She would be the first."

"Do you love her?"

The question sent Jace into a choking fit of coughs. He pounded a hard fist against his chest. "What do you mean? Love? You're getting pretty presumptuous there with that word, my friend. I know you're getting hitched and all, but that doesn't mean you and Joanna have to play cupid with us."

Rich held his hands up in surrender. "Okay, hold the phone. I know the great Jace Archane himself has even pondered the big 'L'. How does she feel about the possibility of being turned?"

"I haven't talked to her about it."

"Well, there's your mistake, Jace. Talk to her about it. Ask what she thinks and go from there."

"What if she's against it?"

Rich swung around to lean his elbows on the bar. "One thing's for sure above all—"

"And what's that?"

"She risked her life for you and nearly died in the process."

Jace looked back at Ariya laughing with a joy he hadn't seen in awhile. The smile lit her face up and, if it was possible, she was even more beautiful. It was then he realized the mistake he had made earlier that night.

He wanted to take her in his arms and relish in the taste and smell of her.

But he couldn't.

She wasn't like the other woman he knew. Perhaps that was the problem—she wasn't a Nightwalker. She didn't suffer lifetimes of bloodlust nor was she used to taking lives so brutally. If she were to become a creature of the night, could he live with the fact that he had changed her life so dramatically?. She was an Aziza Fae and although she studied up on this world, she was still innocent to what it truly meant to be a walker of the night.

"Yeah, I know," Jace said, bringing the glass to his lips. "I probably couldn't even go through with it, anyway."

****

Ariya joined Joanna at a table to the side of the dance floors. Rather than a standard booth seating or even a chair, Joanna's seat was a makeshift wooden groove jutting from the wall. She patted the area next to her and Ariya took a seat. Hmm, hard. She shifted around to get more comfortable.

"Thanks for keeping me company," Joanna said, leaning on the table in front of them. "I'm not really comfortable in a big party type atmosphere."

Ariya leaned on the table. "I don't blame you," she said with a soft exhale. "Small and cozy is where it's at."

"Right?" Joanna giggled. "May I ask you a question, Ariya?"

Ariya nodded. "Yes."

Joanna slowly licked her lips in thought, carefully choosing her words. "Well, I don't want to sound rude or anything, but I know you're not Mortal."

Ariya giggled. "I'm an Aziza, actually. I guess we fall under the title of Faerie according to the Mortal legends." She leaned forward, fanning her wings for emphasis.

"Very nice," Joanna said. "Must save time and travel."

"You would think so," Ariya looked over at Jace engaged in his conversation with Rich. She felt his eyes on her moments ago and fought the temptation to sense his thoughts.

"How long have you and Jace been together?"

"Oh! Jace and I aren't—"

"Come on, that wasn't a friendly goodbye gaze you shared earlier."

"Oh," Ariya felt her face warm. "Well, we're not, really, anything concrete."

"Do you want to be?"

Ariya bit her lip. Now that was a good question.

A slow soulful and smooth beat started like a pulse throughout the club. Ariya watched the dark shadows of dancers in awe as they moved to the sound. Their movement reminded her of the ceremonial dances back home. The rhythmic drums fueled her people's energy, inspiring their bodies like the strings of spirited marionettes.

Only this dance was more sensual.

Ariya froze as she spotted Jace through the moving bodies. His bright blue eyes gazed at her with intent. Of what? Desire? Passion?

Or something deeper...

She leaned against the wall, looking away.

"Oh yeah, there's something there, all right," Joanna chuckled.

Ariya turned to protest when she sensed a figure close in on her. Jace stood with a thin smile on his face and his hand out toward her.

"Shall we?"

She looked at his hand and then at the dance floor. "I'm not very good. I haven't danced in so long. I think I'm still getting used to it again."

"Don't worry." He took her hand and helped her to her feet. "I'll help you."

Ariya turned to Joanna who winked to give her support. When dancing with Joanna, she didn't care about who was watching, despite the few curious and interested gazes some males threw her way. Lycan, Nightwalker or Shifter, they both drew attention. Jace's eyes grew heated as she thought the words and his grip tightened on hers.

I'd fight them all to get to you.

His voice was clear in her mind as he led her out to the dance floor.

She opened her mouth to speak but stopped when his hands roamed over her body, stopping at her hips. "Stay loose," he said softly. "Let your hips speak what your heart feels." Slowly he guided her to turn around so her back faced him. "That's it. Feel the music. Let it guide you."

Ariya allowed the smooth rhythm of the music, the sweet-scented mix of various drinks, and the heated bodies around them fill her senses. She moved on her own, swaying side to side in slow motion. Her body drew to his like a magnet. Strong, cold hands gently caressed her thin, translucent wings before moving up to brush against her neck. He didn't stop there. She felt him sink into the mass of tight curls splayed over her shoulders.

This was what she wanted and needed. His body moving against hers, letting himself go as he swayed with her. Desiring her. Taking her. The pulse of the music matched his motion.

Jace.

Finally, she turned to face him. Blue electric eyes watched her closely, wanting her.

Kiss me, Jace.

He wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close as he leaned in.

Ariya waited, heart racing as he closed the distance between them. His lips drew closer to hers and she held her breath for that inevitable moment of impact when he would claim her lips with his own.

"Ladies and gentleman!"

The music slowed down to silence and the room grew darker as a spotlight shined on Rich standing at front stage. "Animals and bloodsuckers." The crowds buzzed with murmurs, chuckles, and a few jeers. "Okay, simmer down now. As reigning Regent in the House of Lycan, I'd like to announce my commitment to the lovely and amazing Joanna Blackfox of the Eastern divide House of Lycan. She's that sexy gal over there in the back."

The crowd roared with applause and whistles as another spotlight shined on Joanna. She took a little bow.

"Tonight, I will prove my passion and worth to her in the desert lands. For tomorrow, I will take her as my bride."

"Not if I can help it."

Murmurs filled the room.

Rich's smile disappeared as his gaze settled on a face lost in the crowd. The spotlight searched the crowd until it finally settled on a man making his way through the crowd.

The large, muscular man stood with his head held high. Light tawny skin roped over defined muscle, outlined under the snug white shirt and blue jeans he wore. His chiseled face was alluring, but the sparkle in the green eyes he focused on Joanna showed he was a man who didn't like to ask for what he wanted. He took it.

Ariya didn't have to look at Jace to sense the tension tightening his body. The heat in his eyes that once held desire now had anger in its place.

Rich hopped off the stage. Lycans from each side fell into step behind him, including Vex. A small group of Lycans followed closely behind the mystery man.

"Hello, Vince," Rich said with a nod. "Nice to see you didn't punk out like I thought you would."

Vince snorted. "Joanna's worth more than that. She needs someone who can stand up for themselves, for her and the pack. Someone like—"

"Who? You?" Rich laughed. "Vince...hadn't she suffered enough?"

Vince snarled and responded with a growl. He took a step toward Rich who towered a few inches above him. "You and me, wolf boy. We'll see who's the Alpha in the end."

Joanna made her way through the crowd and stopped a few feet away.

Vince smiled once he saw her and sniffed the air. "Looks like she's already in heat." His gaze dipped lower on her body. "And she's got my name all over her."

Rich lunged toward Vince, raising his fist.

Vex immediately slapped his arm over Rich's chest, pulling him back. "Easy man!" Vex said. He turned to Vince as he spoke his next words. "We're going to end this now. And we already got a place picked out for your ritual beat-down."

"Lead the way," Vince said, holding out his arms.

Rich turned to Vex and with a tilt of his head, signaled the start of what was to come.

Seeing the display, Jace snickered and joined the crowd as everyone made their way to the front door. "Showtime."

# Chapter 16

The cold, dry desert air welcomed the caravan of cars that parked near the open land. Smoky hickory scented fireplaces burned somewhere nearby, giving the area a woodsy feel. A few members of each of the House families filtered out of the cars. Shifters transformed from their human form into animals with thick coats to warm their fragile skin. Ariya shivered as she stepped from the limo. She rubbed her hands along her arms that were already teeming with goosebumps. Jace slipped his jacket coat off and wrapped it around her, taking care not to agitate her folded wings.

"Feeling all right?" he asked as he rubbed her shoulders.

She smiled. "I am. Thank you."

"I'm almost sorry we were interrupted," he said, watching everyone get ready.

"Almost?"

Jace nodded. "I'm glad Rich is finally having his ceremony but at the same time..." He turned to her. "I would have liked to finish what we started."

Ariya smiled. "That makes two of us."

He reached up to her and gently brushed his knuckles against her cheek.

To be continued.

Rocks and gravel crunched under their shoes amidst the sound of cars rushing back and forth on the 101 freeway nearby. The vast open landscape engulfed them with only dim lights to illuminate their way. Ariya followed Jace to the middle of the crowd of Nightwalkers, Lycans in their human shapes and the various animal forms of Shifter Elves. A low growl emitted from a Lycan who wandered by them to join Rich and his pack.

"I wonder something about Rich," Ariya said, watching the Lycan in question.

"Oh?" Jace turned to follow her gaze. "What is that?"

"After all these centuries, why only now does he decide to settle down? With my family, it was predestined. We were bred for union once we came of age to continue our people's line."

"We aren't Fae, Ariya. We spent years—centuries even—fighting wars, coming to grips with who we are under Mortal eyes while we protected them from the Rens. Only now has the Ashen Twilight House begun to realize the weight of responsibility if we are to continue as a people. Lycans find mates based on compatibility and the strength of the male in the family. Nightwalkers won't settle down unless we find the right ones and Shifter Elves are the same in finding their mates." He chuckled. "I guess some things are harder to let go of than others."

A line of black motorcycles pulled up with Vince at the head. Once they parked, he immediately shut down the motor and yanked his helmet off to hang it on the right handlebar. He walked with his fists at his side, puffing his chest as if he already had the win in his pocket.

Joanna joined Ariya's side and watched with pride as Rich stepped into the middle of the circle made by the onlookers. Both Vince and Rich peeled out of their clothes and down to their bare skin. In an instant, their bodies grew and stretched. Grunts and screams filled the air along with the sound of bones cracking, transforming and extending to their larger than life bipedal Lycan forms.

Vince released a primal roar before lunging at Rich, knocking him to the ground with a loud, hard thud. He scratched Rich's face, instigating him to fight back. Growls, barks, and punches took over the night air as the large forms fought to draw blood.

Ariya looked up at the surrounding members of the Houses as their eyes were transfixed on the fight before them. Cheers broke out louder at some points than others and it was hard to tell who was rooting for whom. She looked over at Joanna biting down on her lower lip as she pumped her fist in the air for Rich.

"Come on," she whispered softly.

Rich eventually got the upper hand, knocking Vince to the ground before clobbering him in the jaw. He then held his opponent's arms down toward the ground with his paws and leaned back to release a loud roar.

Vince launched a kick that sent Rich reeling downward. He then jumped on Rich and snapped his maw at him, scratching him with his teeth.

"That doesn't seem very fair," Ariya said softly next to Jace.

"No, I don't think it is. But then again I'm the last person to remember Lycan law correctly."

Joanna kept her gaze ahead on the battle as she leaned in toward them. "Oh, it's allowed all right. Practically anything is aside from death and dismemberment."

Ariya's eyes widened at the last two words. Hopefully, it didn't come to that.

Rich swiped paw at Vince, aiming for his face. Vince fell back with a strained howl. An angry streak of blood marred his face. He touched the oozing wound. Dark, yellow eyes burned with anger and he growled louder as he lunged toward Rich.

The cheers and calls blared around them as the two massive Lycan's tumbled around the open dirt. The surrounding members backed up to dodge the fighting Lycans tussling near the edge of the circle.

Rich swung at Vince who leaned back, dodging the hit. He retaliated, swinging toward Rich's torso to tear at his skin. Blood trickled from three slashes left behind. The hit only fired him up more as he growled and jumped onto Vince, knocking him to the ground. An elbow to the neck rendered Vince stunned. Rich took the chance to pin him down while launching a slew of punches to his face.

Rich then hauled Vince up, yanking him forward so he ran stomach first into his knee. Vince fell like a brick to the ground. He tried to move but then thought better of it and fell back to the ground.

Ariya noted Jace smiling like a proud father at Rich's victory. Slowly, Rich forced himself to his feet and walked over to Joanna. The moonlight danced across his face and body as he approached her. By the time he reached her, he had changed back into his Human form. The transformation itself would appear to be but a trickery of light to any Mortal eyes. The three slashes at his side slowly disappeared, the skin healing itself in seconds. He wiped away the remaining blood and then smiled at Joanna.

"Come here, baby," he said huskily with a laugh. He opened his arms to catch her as she jumped and leaned in to give him a deep kiss.

"This isn't the end of it, Hammond!" Vince yelled to Rich as he struggled to his feet. "Believe me on that."

"He proved his worth over you, Vince," Joanna said with fire in her eyes. Placing a quick kiss on Rich's lips, she jumped to the ground and went to Vince. "Go home. My place is here with Rich now. He is the one I choose. Not you. Now leave!"

Vince exhaled sharply. His gaze darted from Joanna to Rich before he nodded with reluctance. "Let's move out!" He yelled over his shoulder. Turning on his heels he headed back to the row of bikes.

The members of the Ashen Twilight House broke out in a wild cheer as the Eastern faction of the House of Lycan parted.

Jace went over to Rich who was already climbing back into his clothes. "I knew you had it in you, bro."

Rich threw his shirt on and embraced Jace in a hug. "I couldn't have done it without you guys here. Next stop: the ceremony. I hope you both are ready because we are." He went back to Joanna with his arms out. Right away, she jumped back into his arms as they kissed, continuing what was interrupted before.

****

Hours later after the celebration back at the Torch, morning slowly crept upon the desert city. Soon the sun would be rising, welcoming a new day. Jace excused himself for the night with a final congrats to both Joanna and Rich. Ariya fought to stay awake as sleep pulled at her throughout the night. She was relieved for the short ride to Jace's apartment.

Home sweet home.

She couldn't agree more.

Once they were inside, Jace closed and locked the door behind them.

"I'm really happy for Rich and Joanna," Ariya said folding Jace's coat on the back of the sofa. "They really seem happy."

"Yeah, they do." Jace went into the kitchen and took out a full bottle of refrigerated blood. He retrieved a wine glass from the overhead shelf and filled it to the brim.

"Do you want that Jace?"

"What, a fight to the death in front of my pack?"

Ariya shook her head, laughing. "No. That kind of commitment. Confessing your love in front of loved ones."

Jace thoughtfully swirled his glass in a circular motion, watching the liquid swish side to side like a whirlpool. "I'm happy. Are you happy?"

"Well, yes but—"

He smiled. "There. We're both happy." Raising his glass, he gave her a wink. "Cheers."

Ariya folded her arms and watched him drink in short gulps. She didn't say a word. She was way too tired to figure out what was happening between them right now. Slowly she turned to leave to the bedroom.

"Ariya."

The clink of glass against granite told her he had set his glass down. Reluctantly, she turned to look at him.

"So much has happened—is happening—all at once. I want to give you an answer, Ariya, but I want it to be the right and truthful one. I just need some time to sort it out. I hope you understand me when I say that."

Still she didn't speak. Instead she went to him, pressing her body into his as her chest brushed his back. She lifted her hand to his chest, holding it there to feel his heartbeat racing to life. The blood had re-ignited his heart to beat again. His body heat rose from the coldness of death to warmth. Adrenaline rushed with the slow pumping of blood throughout his veins. For a moment, his pale skin had darkened to a soft pink shade.

She waited there, listening to his body coming to life.

His breath, a slow rush of rhythmic wind.

She didn't know how long she stood there holding onto him, feeling him. The moment it slipped away was all too soon.

With a parting kiss on his neck, she started toward the bedroom. "I'm going to rest for a few hours. I should be around when you awake."

*

Jace immediately regretted the distance growing between them. He had no idea what to do to bridge the gap. Time. That's what they needed. "I'll see you tomorrow in the evening then."

Ariya's footsteps slowly descended into silence. The next sound he heard was the soft click of the bedroom door closing behind her.

"Good night, Ariya," he whispered.

Jace didn't have to tap into her senses to feel the disappointment within her. He wanted to do something, make her feel the way she made him feel. But how?

She had returned to him after he thought he had lost her. He couldn't even begin to imagine seeing their world through her eyes. She was a strong woman and it was a testament to that strength that she stayed.

Life had always been fragile to Jace. He even understood it in the days before he was turned. One day could be wondrous, as if immortality was a promise of each day after the next. The next day brought the pain of death, taking lives with no rhyme, reason or escape.

He saw it first hand at the age of 14. Town after town fell to the plague that claimed the lives of women, men and children alike. The soft blades of grass he used to play upon as a child became open graves for all those dear to him. He remembered watching their bruised, bloodied bodies piled one on top of the other, ready to return to the Earth from whence they came.

Mothers clutched their young to their breasts with pleas to save them from death. Never had he felt so helpless than when they left their town near Inverness. Those dark times still continued long after the end of the outbreak. His parents were of noble blood and could afford to leave their home for another that was a few cities away in the Highlands. Others who had much less weren't so fortunate.

The thought of those who died in neighboring town haunted him even when he buried his mother.

" _Jace."_

Even after all these centuries, he remembered her voice loud and clear as the day she spoke to him. She had peered up at him with once bright brown eyes that dimmed with impending death. Her body shook with violent coughs, blood dripping from the edges of her mouth. He'd held her with one arm while the other dabbed away the blood.

" _Don't let your life slip away," she said softly. "Not without love and the life you deserve. I love you, my son."_

She had lifted a shaky hand to his cheek. Her other hand reached out and he held onto it tightly as if he held her very life in his grasp. Then, just as soon as she laid there breathing, her once strong grip slowly loosened under his as her life and spirit slipped away.

Jace lowered his head. He blinked a few times to bring his mind back to the present.

Not without love.

Could he and Ariya really have a life like Rich and Joanna? His life hadn't been the same since Ariya arrived and looking back, he knew it would never be whole again if she were to leave for good.

Shaking his head, Jace sighed and headed to the bathroom for a shower. The warm flicker of light from the darkened bedroom caught his eye. Why did Ariya leave the door open? Perhaps she was more tired than he initially thought.

He tiptoed to the door and gently pushed it open.

Inside, Ariya slept peacefully in his bed. Her beautiful face was still and peaceful, warmed by the soft glow of the candles mounted around the room. Jace leaned against the doorway watching her chest rise and fall with slow, gentle breaths. Eventually, he would lower his guard and open his heart. Ariya made it difficult each day to hold onto the walls he had so carefully erected over the centuries.

That was beginning to change.

For now, he would enjoy this moment for as long as his body allowed before finally giving into rest.

# Chapter 17

Jace walked along the thin aisles between his student's desks. He started off every class with a piece of art history before launching into the actual creation of art. He did his best to interest his students in traditional artwork using the techniques he'd learned from his mentor, Signore Da Vinci.

Unfortunately, he couldn't paint landscapes from life in warm, earthy hues, but he still retained the techniques by creating smoky glazes and dimmed edges heightened by chiaroscuro.

Either way, he was pretty proud of his class and how far they've progressed since the start of the semester. Soon it would be coming to an end in two weeks. With everything going on outside of his teaching, he could use the break.

"Time."

The classroom echoed with a chorus of drawing paper ripped from the stacks of pads.

"Now is it time for you to model for us, Mr. Harkin?" A young female student near the front gazed at him with that 'come hither' look he knew all too well.

Jace chuckled, passing it off as a shy but flattered gesture. The young girl was about nineteen with a face caked full of makeup. Her slender frame was draped in a low cut blouse and a short skirt accompanied with high heels. There had to be something said for the shift of power in sexual politics throughout the ages. Particularly dating. It took him a while to get used to the modern aggression of female sexuality. He wasn't used to being pursued and taken. That was _his_ job.

Back in his day, men did the wooing to win the hearts of their love. It was a habit he was very reluctant to shake.

"Not yet, Jessica, but maybe I'll have a special surprise for you guys with the final."

The young girl's gaze dipped below his belt for a moment as a wide smile crossed her face. If he was a young Mortal teacher of the times, his pale face may have turned beet red.

"In the meantime, we'll go for one three minute gesture study and you're out of here."

He checked his watch. Rich's ceremony would be starting in an hour and as a part of the wedding party, he and Ariya needed to be there early.

"And go."

The students drew their focus ahead. Some studied the statue draped in shadow in the middle of the room while others started drawing on their notepads. Jace took a seat at his desk and packed up to leave for the night. Rich Hammond was actually settling down and, after tonight, he was going to be the immortal equivalent to a married man. Tonight was surely going to be interesting.

****

Ariya was already dressed by the time Jace arrived home. She was wearing a strapless satin dress lined with black lace that fell to her ankles. Her usual knee high boots were replaced with Grecian sandals that wrapped around her shapely calves. If he didn't have any prior engagements, he was half-tempted to indulge in her body right then and there. The fact that he was hungry didn't help matters much.

He quickly disappeared into the bedroom and changed into a suit and tie, which he always found more constricting than a loose poet's shirt and a pair of breeches. Even those were more constricting than the Archane family plaids he wore growing up.

Earlier he dismissed the limo driver and opted to take Ariya in his Volga Roadster. Once they piled into the car, music blasted through the speakers, startling Ariya. Jace immediately flipped the dial to a classical station.

"Wow." Ariya looked at the radio and then the speakers on each side of them. "That is amazing."

Jace chuckled. "I completely forgot you hadn't experienced the radio yet since we always ride in the limo."

"Everything here is so convenient."

"Indeed. It makes some things easier. Others, well, the nuances can be lost when some things are rushed."

"Are we heading to the Ashen Twilight House?"

He pulled out of the carport and looked on both sides of the street before starting on the road ahead. "No, Rich called me before hand to said plans had changed. We'll be going straight to the park."

"The park?"

He nodded. "Yep. That's where it'll be."

Knowing Rich, it probably took little convincing to change the ceremony to the nearest park. He hadn't been too happy with desert living since the house moved to Phoenix and found city life in the desert a sort of contradiction of metropolitan lifestyle clashing with old western undertones.

"One day I'm going to high tail it to the forest areas," Rich had said months ago. "There a Lycan can shift freely under the pale moon."

Yellow streetlights pierced the dark shadows around them. Jace turned at the end of the street and started down the road. A block of trees signaled the park was just ahead. He spotted a school's football field on the other side of the park. Thankfully there were no games scheduled tonight.

He pulled into an open parking space and killed the engine. Dark shadowy figures stood under the tall trees and right away Jace recognized Rich's bike parked up ahead.

"Don't you think this area is just a wee bit conspicuous being so close to a school and a mall at the same time?" Jace asked when they approached the small party.

Joanna wore a long white satin dress with long sleeves and a thin lace neckline. Her long, dark hair was pulled up into a twist with tendrils framing her heart shaped face. Instead of a veil, she wore a wreath and held a bouquet of dark red roses mixed with baby's breath. "I wanted a forest wedding but hey, this is the next best thing."

Rich fidgeted with his tie as he shifted uncomfortably in his suit. "First rule of making it last is compromise, I guess."

Jace raised an eyebrow. "I thought first rule was to take the throne like you own it."

"Ah," Rich held up his finger and grinned. "That's pack rule. I'm talking lifelong commitment here, pal."

"And if he wants to live a long life, he has to compromise." Joanna kissed him on his cheek. "Or suffer my Lycan wrath."

"If the quips will come to an end, we'd like to start." Michael Hammond wore a black Lycan ceremonial robe and stood a few feet away holding a Bible in his hand. Jace smiled as he fell into step behind the couple with Ariya at his side.

****

The ceremony was beautiful and Ariya couldn't help wishing for a similar commitment with Jace. Would a Nightwalker ceremony be the same as this? If so, would Jace ever think about—

No, she couldn't finish that thought. _Wipe that thought right out of your mind, Ariya_. She focused on the ceremony ahead as a certain sadness clouded her heart. She tried to ignore Jace turning to face her as she watched him out of the corner of her eye.

After they were pronounced lifemates under the House of Lycan, Joanna and Rich kissed. Now the Lycans had another Regent ruling with Rich as he and Joanna shared one soul with his new bride.

"Congratulations buddy," Jace said giving Rich a hug. "Never thought I'd see the day when you'd settle down before I did."

"Please, the pope will settle down before you do," Rich snorted. He chuckled before turning to Joanna who quietly conversed with Ariya nearby.

The man was beaming and with a loving gaze fixated on Joanna. Jace couldn't remember a time when his friend seemed so happy as he did now.

"I feel so energized around her," Rich said. "Like everything's going to be better for us, you know? Sealing the deal just makes the future seem better to handle. I know I'm rambling—"

Jace held up his hand. "This is your day. Ramble all you want."

"I'll be sure to return the favor when it's your time."

Jace followed Rich's gaze to Ariya and Joanna. _When it's your time_. The words echoed in the air long after Rich spoke them. Jace had to wonder if he would ever be ready for such a time.

****

Joanna gently kissed Michael's cheek, thanked him for overseeing the ceremony and bid him goodbye. Ariya waved to the older Lycan and watched as he joined Jace and Rich.

"I don't know if Rich told you two, but we will be having a Lycan union ceremony in the coming days. My family and tribe wanted to make it official with everyone attending."

Ariya brightened at the news. "We'd love to come."

_We_. Perhaps she shouldn't have spoken on Jace's behalf. They weren't an item...officially. She wasn't even sure _what_ to make of them. She wanted to give him as much space as he needed, but she also had to consider her own feelings. As the Queen of the Aziza Fae, she still had a responsibility back home. It would be expected of her to take a mate to rule beside her. She had hoped it would be Jace. Now with them up in the air, she couldn't just sit by and wait with her heart in her hands. She cared about him and wanted to be with him. There was no doubt in her mind that he wanted to be with her. The problem was whether or not he was going to let her in sooner rather than an undetermined later.

Looking up, Ariya met Joanna's gaze. Had she been speaking the whole time?

"You didn't hear a word I just said in the past minute, did you?" Joanna asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh, I'm so sorry, Joanna." Ariya sighed. "I guess I have a lot on my mind."

"I bet you do." Joanna looked over her shoulder at the three men joking and laughing. "And I can guess who."

"It's a bit complicated."

Joanna snickered. "It always is with men. I don't care if their blood runs cold or hot. My mother used to say the heart and head often struggle long after the heart has already made its decision. In fact, all the women of my tribe said it."

"So I'm basically confusing myself over a future already written?"

Joanna switched her wedding bouquet from one hand to the other and slid her arm around Ariya's.

Ariya sensed she was about to be led away so they could talk in private. No matter how far they stepped away, she wondered if Jace could still hear their words. She stole a quick glance Jace's way and found him still engaged in conversation.

"I'm saying you know what you want," Joanna said as they started walking. "I can see it in both of your eyes. It's just a matter of taking it by the horns and claiming it."

Ariya furrowed her brow at the words. Although she got the point clearly, she wasn't sure if their situation would were best illustrated by such terms. "I know how he feels, Jo. I've lost my family, too. Like him, I also fear losing someone else I care about. I don't know where all of this will lead, but I'm willing to risk it for what it can lead to." She smiled sadly. "You and Rich are a part of this realm. I belong with my people. They look up to me to rule them. I don't even know what will happen to us once this is all over and I return home. We never really talked about it. I certainly didn't bank on feeling this way toward anyone here."

Joanna smiled, her amber eyes sparkling with warmth. "It usually turns out that way. Why beat yourself up speculating though? Go and talk to the boy! I'm sure Jace would understand your concerns."

Ariya turned to Jace, thankful he was still distracted by conversation and hadn't turned to watch them. Joanna was right. It was worth a try.

****

That night, the ride home was silent. Jace had turned the radio off immediately after getting in and Ariya was thankful for the gesture, although she didn't voice her approval. Moments after he started the car, she merely folded her arms and laid back in her seat, enjoying the ride over with her eyes closed. Part of her wished Jace would have made small talk, but the tension between them kept him quiet as well. Sooner or later, one of them had to say something. Perhaps she needed to initiate it...

She pushed herself to speak up but remained quiet even as Jace parked the car and started inside. He opened the door for her but hung back to let her walk in before him.

"You're angry with me." Jace said once he closed the door behind him.

Ariya unhooked her sandals and stepped out of them. "Why do you say that?"

"Your mind felt like a wall was erected around it." Jace slipped his hands into the pockets of his pants as he wandered over to her. "It also doesn't take a mind reader to read your body language."

She didn't respond right away. First, she needed to get her thoughts and feelings together before talking to Jace. She did indeed block her thoughts from him on the ride over, but only to have the privacy to come to her decision. Still holding a clear mind, she went to the bedroom to set her sandals outside the door before turning back to him. "I think it would be best if I stayed somewhere else."

Jace frowned. He didn't blow up, get angry or sad by her words. In fact, she wasn't sure what he was feeling or thinking. Perhaps he blocked his thoughts as well. Instead, she took note of the slight clench in his jaw before he exhaled heavily. "May I ask why?"

"I just think it would be best."

"For what reason, Ariya."

She folded her arms again, fully aware of what the gesture meant. "Perhaps I've overstayed my welcome, Jace. I could be distracting you."

"You're not distracting me," he said, walking to her. "If you were, I would have said so by now."

"But you can't deny I have upended your life. You still need to feed—"

"Which I do."

Ariya closed her eyes for a moment to calm herself. "You had another life before I got here."

Jace kept his gaze on her as he placed his hands on his hips. "Where exactly is this all coming from?"

Ariya slowly licked her lips. Might as well let it all out now. If she would risk taking their relationship a step forward, she had to be willing to risk the fact that he wasn't ready and perhaps never would be. "I know why you're scared to get close to me, Jace. I lost family as well, remember? I'm afraid to get close to anyone except you, but you're too scared to touch me. Every time you get close to me, you jump back as if I were some kind of poison. When you start to think about me, I feel you pull back and shut down. Why?"

Jace shook his head as he slipped out of his coat. "You don't know what you're going on about."

"I know about how you feel, Jace," Ariya said. "You want my blood. You want to feed on me again, but you're afraid of what could happen. I think most of all, you are afraid of what could happen to us."

"And that's so wrong?"

Ariya shrugged. "It can't be worse than what's happening to us now, can it? Absolutely nothing."

Jace's gaze fell from her as threw his jacket on the couch. He was silent and deep in his thoughts. Too deep for her to read. Wonderful. Now, he was shutting _her_ out.

"Well. I guess that says it all, doesn't it?" Ariya tried to hide the sadness in her voice as she exited into the room to change. She was careful not to bend her wings as she pulled her dress off. Jace didn't bother to follow her. Perhaps she didn't even expect him to, anyway. She changed quickly and headed back into the living room, continuing toward the front door.

"Where are you going?" Jace said, watching her intently.

_Away_. This was too childish for words. If he wasn't going to talk to her, there was no reason why she should stay. Ariya quickened her steps to the door. She barely blinked before Jace appeared in front of her. His handsome face hardened with a look that dared her to pass as he folded his arms in front of his body.

He wasn't scaring her one bit. "Jace, let me through."

"You didn't answer my question."

Ariya held his gaze and lifted her chin. "I have to go."

"Where?" A low growl underlined the word.

Ariya sighed. "Julian wants me to help him with some things at the House. I'll go there. He has enough rooms to share."

Anger blazed his eyes. "And you agreed to this?"

"I'm just trying to help your uncle out, Jace."

"No, you're being his freakin' bait and I don't appreciate it at all."

Ariya stepped toward him. "Jealousy doesn't suit you."

She reached for to the doorknob and in an instant Jace's cold hand slipped over hers.

Her gaze shot to him. His jaw muscles flexed despite him trying to keep his anger under control. "Let. Go. Of my hand."

"I'm not going to let Julian use you for his own agenda and I'm not going to let you leave. You could get hurt out there."

"He needs my help."

"So, let him keep waiting for it."

Ariya shook her head, yanking her hand away from his grasp. "You're just as stubborn as he is."

"I'm nothing like him. I didn't shove the woman I love into another man's arms."

"He had no choice! I was in his mind too, Jace. I felt what he experienced and it was regret. It is one thing to sacrifice your love for the better of a woman's life and another to push her out into the cold because you're afraid of her."

"And now you're defending him?" Jace scoffed, throwing his hands up. "And how is this in any way related?"

Ariya saw the perfect opportunity to leave, but the irritation and shock in Jace's voice sent a tinge of guilt inside of her. "Why is it that I feel closer to you when you're miles away than when you're standing right next to me?"

Jace shifted his weight from one foot to the other. He started to speak then stopped, thinking better of it. After a moment, he sighed and rubbed the nape of his neck. "I don't... I don't know."

Ariya nodded. She swallowed the lump in her throat and took a few short breaths to keep the tears from rushing to her eyes. "I care about you very much, Jace. Whenever you kiss me, I don't feel afraid anymore to get close to someone. The fear just...slips away. I thought you felt the same with me, but every time you start getting close, you shut down. I know you said you needed time, but I sense it's just a mechanism to keep your distance from me." She swallowed again. "Together we are strong. I can feel it. But I can't keep going back and forth while you keep me away, Jace. I deserve more than that."

Jace pursed his lips and shook his head. "Are you sure you wish to share your life with me, Ariya? A Nightwalker who survives off blood and dances on the side of darkness. We won't be the perfect couple with two-point-five children and a white picket fence."

The thought hadn't crossed her mind until he spoke the word. _Children_. The prospect of wanting a child was still strong inside of her. As Queen, she was also expected to birth and raise an heir. The idea of Jace not being able to share the creation with her was a devastating thought. He couldn't even share the intimacy of his feed with her let alone his body. "I wasn't asking for such a thing, Jace."

"When I feed and consume blood, my body comes alive, but not long enough to...give you a child." He laughed bitterly. "Julian once said those we turn can be our children, in a way. We bring them up, watch over them and make sure they are cared for. Most importantly, we protect them from the outside world and those that hunt us. But how could we bring such a being into this world? The amount of death and torture that I've seen through the ages has made me wish that no innocents dwelled here. You would've been better off staying in your world, Ariya. Untainted by all of this!"

"Do you really believe I have been tainted? The hands of death stretched far beyond your world and well into mine long before I saw what Julian did to that Ren back there. The only difference is before that person conjured up the Elemental, death had an understanding with life. Nature understood the cycle and only took a life when it was ready. Not a moment before. Each creature knew their spirits were adopted temporarily and for a greater reason. But this—" She held out her hands. "This world kills at random with no purpose. Yet there is a light that makes everything worth living. Worth fighting for."

"And that light is exactly why I can't give into you, Ariya," Jace said. "Don't you understand how much I want to do this for you? For us? I can't have you corrupted any longer by my world."

*

Jace stepped away and went to the kitchen. He needed a moment to clear his mind and something soothing to calm his body. This wasn't exactly the way he had planned to end the night.

He grabbed a glass from the counter and then retrieved a bottle from the fridge. It didn't take long to drain the contents. He had lived centuries, fighting alongside mortal comrades who died before his eyes. It took some time, but he even trained himself not to get close to any of the women he shared his bed and body with. Their time would always be short in his arms. Since that first war, he had been haunted by the death of his comrades and Nightwalker brothers. The son of the dragon made examples of them, impaling their heads and bodies as trophies.

He flattened one palm on the cold granite countertop. Pale skin reddened as the blood rushed through him. His other hand gripped the frail glass tight as the events of the past flashed through his mind in one bloody picture. There was nothing at all he could do to save them, but he would be cursed to stand by and watch Ariya get corrupted.

With a loud yell, he hurled the glass against the wall with a force. The crash echoed all around the room, sending tiny shards flying in every direction before hitting the floor. He started toward the bedroom but as he crossed the hall, his resolve broke down.

Jace fell to his knees, curling his hands into tight fists at his side.

"Jace—"

Ariya's voice was a small cry in the back of his mind. He didn't want her to see him like this. A broken down man feeling the weight of his years weigh heavily on his shoulders. He had kept it inside for so long only to lose himself now.

Jace cursed himself over and over.

The warm touch of her hand on his shoulder was a small comfort that stilled him. Never did he bother to move from her touch.

We need each other now more than ever, Jace. Don't shut me out.

Hearing her thoughts, he turned to face her. "Ariya."

"Let me help ease your burden." She slipped a hand over his racing heart, now alive with the blood he had consumed. "If you want me here, tell me. I need to know how you feel because I want you. I just can't wait around wondering if you feel the same."

Jace closed his eyes at the soft sound of her words. It was all too easy to anyone else. Open his mouth and tell her how much she meant to him. Why couldn't he just say the words?

He shook his head "I'm sorry, I can't do this." He stood, breaking away from her before he went into the bedroom, closing the door behind him.

*

What went wrong? Was it something she said or did? Maybe it was the fact that she laid her feelings right out on the line. She should have expected this. After pushing him so hard, it was a wonder he didn't leave sooner.

Jace had always seemed calm and content with his lifestyle. Perhaps he had to be that way to live through six hundred years of war, loss and turmoil. After reading his thoughts and seeing his reaction, the feeling he had long buried over the centuries finally made its way to the surface. The once thin thread that connected them was now shattered like the fragile drinking glass all over the kitchen.

Remembering the mess, she wandered through the hall and to the kitchen, careful not to step on any pieces of broken glass. She stared down at the small pieces on the cold, tile floor.

She took a deep breath. "Use your senses, Ariya," she whispered to herself. Lifting her hands, she raised the tiny specks into the air and watched them gather on the counter before forming back into the original glass formation. Unbroken and unscathed like before. If only emotions were so easy to mend.

She thought about going to the bedroom door to bid Jace goodbye, but with his keen hearing, he should hear her words without difficulty.

"I'll be returning home in the next few days," she said loud and clear as if Jace stood before her. "I trust you and the house will find the Elemental's leader without incident. I'll be at the House if you need—" Tears welled up in her eyes and she bit her lip to stop them from surfacing. The silence was her answer. It was the only thing she needed to push her to the exit.

As she turned toward the front door, she saw it out of the corner of her eye: the painting standing in the middle of the living room. The same one Jace had created when she left the first time. It was the only thing he would have left of her now.

Pushing the thought out of her mind, Ariya started toward the front door. Her heart weighed heavily within on chest as she opened it.

A soft brush of air blew past her before she could comprehend the movement. A large fist slammed against the door, pushing it close. Jace stepped in front of her wearing only the pants that matched his suit. Tension thickened like pure heat between them as he looked at her. Before she could step away, Jace leaned in and kissed her with a passion that nearly took her breath away. A soft moan escaped his lips and his hands caressed her arms before roaming over the curves of her body.

"You want me, Ariya?" His voice was deep, purely masculine and tinged with need. "My life, my soul, my heart?"

"Yes," she breathed. "I want you, Jace."

"There's no turning back once we start this."

Shots of electricity pulsed through her veins as his hands moved over her. Gentle but eager hands untied the corset top that confined her. He pulled it down her body, allowing it to slip to the floor.

Ariya gasped as he descended to his knees.

Jace leaned in, catching the bottom of her skirt between his teeth. Slowly he pulled it down, using his hands when it refused to comply. When she changed earlier that evening, she made sure to match the dark purple satin and black lace top with the matching panties she wore underneath.

A deep groan from Jace verbalized his approval of the choice. He softly kissed the inner lace linings near her most sensitive spot.

A soft moan escaped her as she ran her fingers through the silky strands of his hair. She looked down, watching him force the thin material down her legs and to the ground. He kissed a pathway up her body to the small concave between her full breasts.

Without another word, Jace reached down and hauled her up into his arms as if she weighed nothing at all. He carried her to the bedroom and laid her down on the bed, careful of her folded wings as he climbed on top of her.

"Do you know what you're asking me to do, Ariya?" Jace whispered softly. He gently caressed her cheek while awaiting her answer.

"Yes I am, Jace." She turned into his palm and kissed it. The edge of one life hung in the balance as the other loomed ahead of her. Jace was the man she wanted to be with. There was no doubt in her mind about it. She couldn't even imagine her future without him.

Jace slipped out of his pants, letting them fall to the floor in a soft shuffle. Her gaze roamed over his toned body, stopping at the engorged bulge pushing against his boxer briefs. He was right. With the consumption of blood, his body came alive like that of a Human. Although he said he couldn't sustain his seed long enough to produce a child in her womb, it didn't matter. Maybe her Aziza blood would make things different.

Jace smiled at her conclusion. He then kissed her and reached over to entangle his fingers with hers. Pressing his body against her, he deepened the kiss.

Never before had she been so intimate with a man. She wanted Jace more than anything and, although this was all new to her, somehow her body knew exactly what to do. She mirrored his motion from before, moving her hands over the lean muscles of his body. She gripped the elastic of his boxer briefs and pulled them down. His narrow hips moved side to side and she felt the brush of his sex caressing her body. Her gaze roamed down, wanting to get a full look at his naked form.

Ariya blinked a few times at the now bare, enlarged erection between his legs. She was amazed by the length, thickness and how warm it felt in her hand. The touch of it was soft yet hard, like velvet wrapped around a long piece of steel. How would it feel when he was inside of her? She caressed him, slow at first and then quickening her pace once she saw how much pleasure Jace took in her touch.

He leaned in to take one of her hardened nipples in his mouth and he hungrily laved it before gently sucking. Ariya couldn't believe the rush of so many emotions coming at her all at once. All of them pleasurable. She tightened her grip on him as she moved her hand faster. Jace's shot his hand out to cover hers and hold her still.

"If you continue doing that I'm afraid we'll be finished before we even get started." He chuckled deeply and kissed her. "Are you ready?" His voice was deep and husky, breathless with the need to have her.

Ariya nodded. She felt his hand cover hers again before he led his hard, eager shaft toward her warm, wet center. She gasped sharply and froze as she felt him enter her with a slow, aching thrust.

She gripped his muscled shoulders as a soft moan escaped her lips. Never had her body felt this entrance before and the discomfort of his hardness inside made her unsure of what she should do.

Jace stroked her cheek to calm her. He then placed a flurry of kisses there and moved to her jaw and neck as his other hand massaged her swollen breast.

"Relax, Ariya," he whispered. He leaned in to kiss her deeply while his thumb lingered in a circular motion over her hardened nipple. Bolts of pleasure shot through her body. Right away, she relaxed and allowed him to be welcomed within her inch by aching inch. His tongue caressed hers in the kiss as he teased her with the idea of what he wanted to do to the rest of her body.

Slowly, Jace moved his hips, allowing the friction of their bodies to create a pleasure that pulsated through their veins. His body ached with the fire to feed upon her, but not just yet. Nice and slow.

You mean the world to me, Ariya. More than any other woman. I want this to last forever.

Ariya wrapped her legs around Jace's body, using the soft planes of her heels to push him deeper inside of her. She could feel their bodies connecting with each passing second. She constricted around him, massaging and urging him to the edge of a fiery explosion.

"Ariya." Her name was a struggle in ragged breaths on his lips. His handsome face contorted with pleasure that raced through his body. He moaned deeply.

Ariya reveled in the strong arms that held onto her her. She gripped him tighter as his hips thrust faster, pressing her into the soft mattress. She wanted to bottle this experience up and make it last forever. For this was a pleasure she had never felt before and quickly found herself craving more.

"Jace." His name was a breath on her lips, an exhale. Her fingernails dug into his back as he hit a spot that nearly sent her over the edge. "Yes."

Ariya arched her back, pushing her hips into his. Soft shadows and the light of the candles lit Jace's handsome features. Her heart swelled watching the sweet bliss of pleasure on his face. She dug deeper, eliciting an animalistic grunt from him. His hips pumped faster as he bared his sharp fangs. She couldn't hold on much longer. The force of her unbridled abandon ripped its way through her body, fighting to the surface.

Jace let out an unrestrained cry and dipped his head down to her neck. Pain gave way to pleasure as his teeth penetrated her skin. Ariya let out a tearful moan as she held onto Jace, feeling the blood inside of her rushing to his inviting lips.

She held on, enclosing her arms and legs around him, urging him not to stop.

Don't stop, Jace. Never stop.

Slowly she felt her life slipping away. At the same time, a pleasure was rising inside of her body that forced her to the point of no return.

It started at the tip of her toes. It was a mere tingle quickly growing into a force all its own as it spread throughout her entire body. Jace's hips slammed against hers one last time and he succumbed to the power of his own release.

Ariya's body was on fire with a heat she never felt before. She cradled his head, holding on as he continued drinking from her. Her mind cleared completely as a cloud of darkness fell over her. Her last thought was the realization that Jace had slid his hand into her hair, gripping a handful of it as he continued feeding on her. The weight of his body pressed down on hers as she lost all feeling and consciousness.

*

Jace couldn't stop himself. Of all the pleasures he took from all the women throughout the ages, none tasted sweeter than Ariya. She had given him the sweetest gift tonight. That of her heart, body and soul. All thought and comprehension left his mind with the rush of her sweet, warm enclosure around him. This was where they belonged. This was home and they had become one.

Jace had to catch his breath as he moved away from her. His body warmed with the flow of her blood mixing with his. He felt her powers flowing through him, and the strong love that couldn't be expressed by mere words alone. Finally, he opened himself up to the only woman he held so close to his heart. _Love_. The word felt so right. Why had he been afraid to say it all this time? Now it came so freely to him. Enough that he wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

"Ariya." His contentment was short-lived as he realized she wasn't moving. He licked his lips, tasting more of her sweet blood as he gently caressed her cheek. The pulse that was there only moments ago was now slowly dying to a quiet rhythm.

"Ariya, wake up!" He slipped his arms around her and pulled her up, but she was as limp as a doll. He had to hurry.

Jace climbed off the bed and retrieved his silver rapier from the top of the chest. He took a deep breath and sliced downward from his wrist to his elbow, breaking into the prominent vein. The searing pain made him grunt loudly. Ariya had to survive, for without her—

He cast the dark thought from his mind as he lifted his arm to her mouth. Drops of dark red blood painted her soft, full lips.

Jace waited with bated breath, willing her to move and feed on him.

Hopefully, it wasn't too late.

III

Blood of Life

# Chapter 18

A taste.

Sweet.

Thick.

Filling.

Her body thirsted for it as her intestines raced to digest the liquid. Her heart slammed in rapid succession beneath her chest as the blood invaded her veins. Slowly the feeling returned to her. Blood circulation pumped to life an existence that almost passed her by. She needed it; she couldn't get enough of it.

Ariya sensed the arm hovering over her. Her hands grew strength, clawing at the warm skin, pressing it to her lips.

Jace's blood was perfect. To humans, it would smell coppery, ancient and sickening. To Ariya, it was like a sweet wine, aged and smooth. The life was slowly returning to her. Her lifeblood awakened her senses to full alert.

"Ariya stop."

Jace's smooth voice echoed in her consciousness, like a distant sound. Her fingers gripped his wrist tighter and tighter, clutching it against her open mouth as she drank hungrily. The sound of his blood and heart racing echoed within her mind. A soft moan escaped her lips. She beckoned the sweetness into her body and soon she couldn't tell where her blood ended and Jace's began.

"Stop Ariya—"

Ariya's stomach flipped from the transformation. Her eyes flashed open to watch Jace's expression twist in the agony of pain and pleasure.

She was partly aware of Jace greedily sucking the air in short, sharp breaths. His body fought for life while bearing the constant arousal pulsating at the base of his groin.

Her stomach twisted and turned.

"Stop!"

Ariya pushed his arm away and bolted up in bed, feeling the rush of blood racing alongside the bile up to her throat. She dove off the bed and clapped her hand over her mouth as she scrambled to the bathroom, slamming the door behind her. The blood forced itself out of her body just in time for her to reach the toilet. Jace pounded on the bathroom door repeatedly, but his words were muffled by her sounds of retching.

It took her a moment to process what was happening. The pounding of her heart echoed in her ears just like the drums of the ceremonies she missed from home. She tried to calm herself. The cold tiled floor was an icy shockwave on her warm skin. Just when she thought her entire system would empty itself, the convulsing stopped. She fell away from the toilet and leaned against the wall.

Jace burst open through the door. Once he spotted her on the floor, he knelt down and placed a gentle hand against her cheek.

"I can feel your blood coursing through my body," Ariya said, her voice weak. "What happened?"

"You took much more blood than the last time," he said. "Your body wasn't prepared for it. Come on. I'll help you."

He used his strength to help her stand and lean against the sink while he flushed.

Ariya reached toward the faucet with shaky hands and threw a handful of cold water on her face. She looked ahead at her mirror reflection. Tiny diamond droplets of water fell down her face. Jace moved behind her, but he was nowhere to be found in the mirror.

"Here."

She looked to her side where he held out a small hand towel. Taking it, she was ready to wipe her face when something began to happen.

Her hair, a mass of sable-hued curls, grew longer down her back and shinier under the soft light of the bathroom's glow. Her soft, mahogany complexion glowed with a radiance, making her appear even more ethereal. She curled her lip to reveal small canine teeth slowly extending to sharper points. They weren't as long or pronounced as Jace's, but they were pretty close.

"What is it?"

Jace's voice was clearer. His blood flowed strong, mixing in her veins with her own. The beating of his own heart echoed along with hers.

"I can feel you," she murmured.

She turned to face him, sensing the life of the city outside their door. Never before had she been more alive than in that moment. Mortals likened such a feel to a high gained from pharmaceuticals and alcohol. This sensation was a hundred times stronger and purer.

"I can feel everything."

"Ariya—"

She laughed and danced around him, heading toward the living room. Sounds were magnified in her mind and her wings felt as if they could flutter away in the sky forever. She laughed and twirled around the room, enjoying the rush of air drying the droplets from her face.

"Jace! It's wonderful! I can feel you!" Ariya said with a broad grin. She stopped and watched him lean against the doorway as he watched her. "What?"

"Are you sure you're all right?"

"Sure I am." She struck a pose that accentuated her curvy body. "Don't I look all right?" she asked seductively.

Jace moaned as he walked to her. "You never looked better, but I am still worried about you. You should probably rest for the night while I go—"

"No, Jace. I want to see the city."

"The city?"

"Yeah, I feel so alive. I just want to run around and absorb everything in the city. My senses are more alert than they've ever been in my life."

"Maybe we should stop by the houses—"

"Why?"

"To tell Julian what happened here."

Ariya laughed and waved him off. "Why worry him over this?"

Jace slipped his arms around her waist. "We don't even know how your Fae blood will be affected. I'm already concerned that it rejected most of it."

"Oh, come on." She pulled him close. "We won't be out too late. Just for a little spin?"

He gazed at her a moment and she could practically sense the battle within himself whether to comply or not.

She leaned in, brushing her lips against his. "One little spin," she whispered.

This broke him as he laughed huskily. "One spin and we're heading back here. No question."

Ariya moved up to her tip-toes to give him a deep kiss. She was glad he welcomed it and slipped his hands into her mass of curly hair to hold her to him. Once the kiss broke, she stayed dangerously close to him and whispered seductively, "That's all I ask."

Minutes later, they were in Jace's Volga racing down the quiet suburbs of Northern Phoenix near Paradise Valley. Ariya loved every minute of the night's chilly breeze. The kiss of air heightened every inch of her. She rode with the window down and her arm hanging out. The breeze blew her hair every which way and she couldn't help losing herself in the feeling. She turned to Jace, smiling as the shadows danced across his face. She slipped her hands around his. His pale skin was a contrast to her dark, glowing complexion. Warm hands and heart. Their blood flowed together as one.

Jace was lost in his thoughts as he watched the road and steered with one hand.

There was something about the way a man commanded such a powerful machine with such grace that sent shivers of excitement within her.

A sneaky grin curled his lips as she thought the words.

"No fair. You can't block your thoughts from me and still expect to read mine."

"Oh, can I?" he said pulling her closer. "Well, then. How's this?"

His strong arm held her close as he urged her to lean on his chest. He had teetered on the edge before, of both death and of falling in love, but never before had he wanted to give himself entirely...that is, until Ariya. She was the first woman to ever travel so close to his heart. With most women, he would indulge and move on, content with the idea of not getting close to anyone. Since Ariya had arrived, everything changed.

"I've never experienced that before," she said. "That kind of...passion."

"It was your first time?"

"As an unmatched Aziza, yes. I was never betrothed."

"And now?"

She watched the yellow streetlights flash by, illuminating the darkness before it disappeared. "And now I'm yours and you're mine. It was beautiful. I feel closer to you. Like I can sense every part of you. Especially your desires."

"Mmm, in that case, you can probably sense me wanting to continue what we started before." He stole a quick kiss from her lips before turning his attention back to the road ahead. "Man, I never thought I'd feel this way toward another woman. It's still hard to believe."

Ariya quietly traced her fingertips over his chest. "Well, believe it. Because I don't think either one of us plan to let go anytime soon."

"You are correct about that, M'lady." He gently caressed her arm. "You came into my life for a reason, Ariya. Now I know why."

She peered up at him. "Oh?"

"Oh yeah. I told Julian when I was ready to be Regent that I wanted you by my side. I mean that now more than ever."

Ariya had to sit up to make sure she heard right. "Jace, are you asking what I think you're asking?"

"Well, don't infer too much," he said, laughing. "I didn't expect to present the question driving in a car."

Ariya couldn't believe it. She would belong to a family once again and have another place to call home. Most importantly, she would be with the man she loved for the rest of their days.

"Jace..."

"Hmm?"

He peered down at her for but a moment.

Out of the corner of her eye, Ariya saw the bright lights of the oncoming car outside Jace's window before it smacked right into them.

"Watch out!" she screamed.

It was too late.

The impact of the car pushed them into a tailspin and Ariya had to hold on as the force slammed her against the passenger side door.

Metal ground against metal and the loud screech of the tires pierced the night air. The last thing she spotted before closing her eyes was the parked car that drew closer to her side in mere seconds. The impact threw her against the car, reminding her of a ball game she used to play when she was younger. Her sisters would use rackets made from wood bark and needle threading to bounce a ball back and forth, never letting it hit the ground.

At that moment, she knew exactly how the ball felt.

Once the car slid to a halt, the air fell quiet with only a hissing sound mixing with the constant car horn.

Was the other car still around?

Jace!

"Ariya." Her name was a weak, strained sound on his lips. "You okay?"

"Yeah. I'm fine." She turned to the dark shadows covering his face and blinked a few times to clear her vision. A deep gash was left on his forehead and bruises marked his face. He breathed a few times and in seconds the injuries slowly disappeared.

Ariya touched his forehead where the abrasion had healed. "How about you?"

"Good so far." He gripped her wrist and turned her palm up to give it a kiss. "We need to make sure the other person is okay." He pushed to open the door when something hit him. Narrowing his gaze, he looked ahead and surveyed the area.

"What? What is—" Sensing Jace sniffing the air, Ariya followed suit. A strange, familiar scent ignited warning bells within her.

Death.

"No one's in the car up ahead," Jace said squinting his eyes. "But I can still sense someone near."

"Shifter Rens?"

Jace curled his lips, extending his teeth into fangs as he emitted a low warning growl In the darkness ahead, a small bat appeared in the air, heading straight for them. As it drew close, a beam of light flashed and in moments a man appeared with long, scraggly hair down his shoulders.

Ariya froze as she recognized the man. He was one of the wolves that had attacked her when she arrived. This one was there the night the Rens surrounded her in the alley. What was his name? Raine.

His bright yellow eyes glowed with a focus on her. His snarl bared a set of aged yellow teeth and his laugh was deeply sick and twisted sound to her ears.

Raine reached in, grabbed Jace and hauled him out of the car by the collar.

Ariya struggled to reach for him. There had to be something she could do! Before she could act, the passenger door was ripped open. A pair of massive, thick hands reached in and grabbed her. She flailed as much as she could, trying to escape. She attempted to push away her attacker with tightened fists. Upon impact, her hands sent a burst of energy that tore them apart, knocking back onto the ground with a hard slam.

She had to get up and find Jace. Pushing herself up, Ariya shook her head slightly and turned. A group of Rens surrounded Jace as Raine threw him to the middle.

"Jace!"

He turned to her and rushed to get up, but was greeted with a hard kick to the stomach by a nearby Ren.

Ariya started toward them when another set of hands latched onto her, holding her back. She gritted her teeth, summoning all of her anger into a tangible power warming her hands.

"Ah-ah." Raine started toward her holding up a waving finger. "Fighting us will only make it worse, Fae. While you're busy with my men over there, I can take out your little boyfriend in an instant. And when you're done with us, you'll be scraping him off the ground...in pieces." He gestured to his buddies to hold Jace up. Two of the Rens grabbed Jace and held him in an arm lock.

"You let her go and I promise I'll spare your lives later," Jace growled. His bright eyes darkened as he focused on the Rens holding Ariya.

Raine roared with laughter and his buddies followed with their own chuckles. "That's a good one, Archane, but neither one of you are in a position to make threats. We have a use for your pretty little Faerie here and you can't do a thing about it."

"Watch me." Jace roared with a primal edge as he used his captors as a boost to lift up and kick Raine's lanky form backward toward the ground. He flipped back, freeing his arms to knock away the two next to him before rushing over to Ariya.

A wave of relief crept over her, but it was short lived as she felt a long, cold blade against her neck. The Ren behind her laughed.

"One slice is all it takes, Archane," Raine said, struggling to stand. "Whether on her pretty little throat or cutting her wings to shreds. We know much more about this little Fae than she believes and anything heroic will come back to bite you tenfold. So back up Princie boy."

Jace held his hands up and slowly backed up to be held again by his recovering captors.

"That little move back there is going to cost you." He launched a fist right into Jace's jaw, knocking him backward.

Ariya's stomach turned.

"Take her to the hideout while we take care of him," Raine ordered.

"You got it," the one behind her answered.

"No! Let me go!" Ariya fought to free herself, but the Rens refused to let go. She caught sight of dozens of rats scampering across the concrete ground toward Jace and Raine. In mere seconds, they were in human form, readying tight fists at their sides. The sound of knuckles pounding bone and skin broke through the air. Ariya couldn't take her eyes off the scene as she was pulled toward the waiting car. The Rens circled around Jace, punching him in the face and gut until he lost balance. They took turns kicking and kneeing him; holding his body up when he would fall limp. Tears blurred Ariya's vision. Her body grew hot like fire as she felt every hit from the beating, consuming her like a choking shadow. She refused to stand by and watch. Raine's threats may not have been empty, but she couldn't risk it.

"Jace!" Two more Rens climbed out of the waiting car and raced to grab her before pushing her into the back seat.

They were like an infection, enclosing and feeding off his pain as they continued trying to knock him unconscious. Ariya bit her lip, ready to strike and end this now. She gripped the sides of the front two seats and pulled herself forward. Throwing her hand out, she sent waves of fire that broke the front glass window and headed toward the group around Jace, immediately lighting them up in flames. Ariya tried to raise her other hand when she felt a blow to the back of her head, knocking her forward. Dazed nausea rendered her lifeless for a moment as she lay forward on the dashboard.

"Told you not to try anything," the Ren to her right said. "That's a strike against you." He wrapped his arms around her and pushed her back to the seat where another Ren grabbed her, sitting her back down.

She forced herself to breath slow, calm breaths until the queasiness passed. "Where are you taking me?" she said as the car engine turned and started up. The door opened to her right and in slipped another Ren. Great, sandwiched between two of them now.

"Stupid twit jacked up my window," the one up front mumbled. "That'll cost a fortune to fix."

"I said, where are you taking me?" she asked again, louder this time.

Their response was silence as the car pulled away from the scene. One way or another, she was going to get her answer.

Ariya slid back into her seat and took note of the streets passing by. Nothing looked familiar. Before she arrived at wherever they were taking her, she had one more chance to escape. A surge of energy grew within her. The glow of her skin grew brighter to a milky white light.

"What the—,"the Ren next to her said.

She threw bolts of fire at the driver with one hand and ripples of energy toward the front passenger. The driver screamed as the flames consumed him. He leaned to the side, steering the vehicle out of control. The passenger was already unconscious and possibly dead from the energy's impact. His limp body only moved now from the force of the car.

"Get the wheel! Get the wheel!" the Ren next to Ariya's right side yelled.

The other Ren kicked the flaming driver out of the car and grabbed control of the steering wheel. Ariya lunged behind him, reaching for the door. Just when the handle was in her grasp, she was quickly pulled back.

"Oh, no you don't!" the Ren said next to her.

A searing pain shot through her body as she tried to gain what little balance she had left.

"You need to calm down."

Her eyes grew tired as she fell against the seat. As sleep threatened to claim her, thoughts of Jace and the blissful evening they had shared raced back to her. As the car got back on track, something small pierced the skin of her neck and her body continued growing weaker.

"There now. We'll just have a nice little ride the rest of the way."

Her vision blurred and she struggled to keep awake, but it was no use.

Finally, she gave into the waiting darkness.

# Chapter 19

Dull pain numbed Jace's limbs and he felt like he had been unconscious for years. He struggled to remember what had happened. Ariya. He had to find her. Pangs of hunger nearly crippled his movement. A chorus of heartbeats and voices told him he wasn't alone.

"Nothing to see here, folks, move along."

Those voices sounded familiar, but he couldn't for the life of himself place them. If only his eyelids didn't feel like stacks of bricks over his eyes. He cursed softly. Bodies looked like a rush of misty images glazed together. He could barely lift his head. If only he had a chance to feed, he could accelerate his healing. Gravel and rocks echoed in the air as two figures approached him. The sound heightened in his mind along with the thunderous beats of hearts surrounding the vicinity.

"Humans are coming," one of the voices said. "We have to get him out of here now or their police will start poking around."

The ground disappeared as they lifted him carefully and placed him in the backseat of a car.

"Yeah, it's me," said the voice from the passenger side. "We got him. We're heading over now. His car's pretty banged up, but we're bringing it in, too. We should arrive soon."

The soft roar of the car engine lulled him to rest. He sensed no danger or malicious intent from these guys. Perhaps these were House members who sensed something had gone wrong and came to help.

Ariya. He had to tell them she was taken!

If only he could...

Jace struggled to sit up, but his mind reeled. Reluctantly he slumped forward and gave into the darkness.

****

Bright castle walls gave way to a small, dark bedroom once Jace opened his eyes. He was dreaming of the past again. Memories had washed over him and now, focusing on the room around him, reality jolted him back to the present. Modern furniture decorated the room with beautiful brown and blue accents and bedding. Home. Now he remembered. He was in the Ashen Twilight House.

Jace looked around for a clock, but there was none that he could see. Great, no sense of time anywhere. Just what he needed to feel even more disoriented. Soreness weighed down his limbs and face, each triggering a memory of where he was kicked and punched. Tight bandages hugged his bare torso. Licking his lips, he tasted the remnants of blood. Someone must have fed him recently. He made a note to send that person a nice gift basket when he found out their identity. Moaning, he cradled his head as the shadows of a time long past raced back to him, soon replaced with the one person he had come to care for above all.

"Ariya!" Taken. After they—

Jace froze as a memory of the entire evening returned to him. That must be why he hadn't healed earlier. He had almost changed Ariya with the amount of blood he gave her. Her body had rejected most of it, sure, but still a good amount of it stayed. She had changed right before his eyes and displayed the characteristics of a Nightwalker. Just how far had she transformed? Time would tell whether or not she would thirst for blood and suffer injuries from the sun's rays. She already had heightened senses.

Jace cursed softly. Now more than any other time, she needed his protection and guidance, but she was taken! Where was she?

The sound of footsteps reverberated outside before Julian entered with Daoine behind him. His uncle crossed the spacious room and stopped at Jace's side.

"We're here, Jace," Julian said with a softness to his voice. "You're safe with us."

Under any other circumstance, he would feel relieved, but the longer he stayed here, the more antsy and useless he felt. "They took her. Shifter Rens just crashed into us and abducted her."

"I know," Julian said. "We have a team scouring the streets to find her. The minute we get any Rens at the scene, we're going to bring them in."

"Thank you for doing this for her, Uncle."

"It's not only for her, Jace. It's what they did to you as well. No one hurts members of the House and gets away with it."

Jace ran his hand over his face. "My blood is running through her veins now. I can feel her so close and it's driving me insane that I can't be next to her."

Daoine stepped into the room. "You did not turn her, Jacinus?"

"Not quite. Her body rejected it although I did see some changes that proved she had turned, even a little. How far the effects will go, I'm not quite certain but I do know I need to be with her right now."

Jace fell back onto the bed, heat pulsing through his body. He wanted to scream for letting his guard down and not watching out for either of them. Even more, he wanted to find Raine and all his Shifter thugs. First he'd make them scream for mercy until they could scream no more. And then he would draw out their death as long as he could. He needed to find Ariya and bring her home where she belonged. Right here in the Ashen Twilight House.

He couldn't even begin to figure out what they had in store for her. All he knew was that he had to stop them before it was too late.

****

Ariya drifted in and out of consciousness. Gravity pulled her and she felt as if she were slung around someone's shoulder. Blood rushed to her forehead like a pressure cooker yet she couldn't move. Something inhibited her movement and powers. No matter how much she struggled, it wouldn't give.

Time to try something else. She tapped into her other senses and stepped outside of herself. The one called Raine carried her over his bony shoulder. Two of his men followed close behind. She couldn't quite tell her location from the surrounding walls, but it looked like an abandoned house. Darkness loomed outside. It still must be night time.

They stopped at the door of one of the rooms where a man stood with his hands folded behind him. Ariya took a quick inventory of his appearance. Tall. Thick, sturdy build, like that of a warrior. Shoulder length hair, from what she sensed in the darkness. Something about him felt so familiar...

"Got her," Raine said with a wide smile. "Do you want me to wake her?"

"Not just yet. Let her rest a while. She has many long days and nights ahead of her and I want her to be wide awake to do the job."

Jace was nowhere to be seen, but he felt so near.

Jace...if you can hear me....Please stay close to me.

As the man turned around and headed back to the car parked outside, Ariya felt herself slipping away once again.

# Chapter 20

"You were thinking of your father."

Jace opened his eyes to see Daoine standing in the doorway. For as long as Jace knew him, Daoine always had a certain grace about him. He led them with such regality that still surrounded him even now. It seemed like so long ago that Daoine appeared on his doorstep with the promise of a new life. Now his life had changed again with Ariya.

"Yeah, actually I was."

Daoine tilted his head. "I can tell by your expression. You look so much like him."

"I wish he survived that war. I shouldn't have raced up to Vlad's tower to stop him. I wish I could say I did so because I was angry, but no. That's no excuse. If I waited and covered Father, he would still be alive today."

"We cannot return to the past and change it, Jacinus. That is one power we do not have. We can, however, remain watchful and try to make the future safe for our people and the humans. Your father made his choice when he remained down in the courtyard to fight. And perhaps it was that choice that helped him to make your journey safe."

Jace leaned back on his pillow. "I saw a Nightwalker up there. Vlad had been draining his blood but stopped midway to flee. I didn't even have the chance to capture him."

"History dealt with him in its own way."

"Yeah, but now we may have his protégé to worry about now." Jace inhaled, sensing his organs and skin tissue repairing itself by the seconds. The damage dealt to him by the Rens would still take some time to heal. It needed to heal sooner rather than later because he didn't have a moment to spare for a restful retreat. "Father would be Patriarch, wouldn't he?"

"Perhaps. Gerard would have been a great leader like Julian, that is certain."

"Could you have made us Shifters? I mean, instead of Nightwalkers?"

Daoine chuckled deeply. "Are you regretting your blood origins, Jacinus?"

Jace shook his head. "No, not at all. I just wonder sometimes what it would be like to shift and have the powers that you have. All this time I've been wondering, but since Ariya came, so many things I've bottled up have been coming to the surface. I need answers."

The tall Shifter Elf shook his head and chuckled softly. "So curious like the day you changed." He walked across the room and took a seat at the end of the bed. His blue-gray eyes focused ahead as he descended into deep thought. "A set destiny was handed to us long ago, Jacinus. We have abilities that mortals only dream of. We also have a right to survive and live just as they do on this Earth. Together, all of us— Nightwalkers, Lycans, and Shifters—are stronger working together."

"And Faerie?"

Daoine smiled. "Young Ariya."

"It's not too late to save her. I can go—" He tried to sit up and was met with a sharp pain as if someone had smashed their fist into his skull. It probably wasn't too far from the truth. Wincing, he laid back on the bed.

"Rest, Jacinus," Daoine said, raising his hand. "We will find her."

"I tried to turn her, Daoine. I saw her change right before my eyes. And still she couldn't contain my blood."

"Is this why you wished to be a Shifter?"

Jace pressed his head into the pillow. "Julian said the exchange of blood is a heightened form of intimacy. I wonder what it would be like to have that intimacy grow as a child inside the woman I love."

"And so you can, but in another way."

"Not like Lycans or Shifters."

Daoine gently shook his head, his long dark mane waving side to side. "No, not like them. But in another way."

"Have you ever loved someone so much, you wonder how you ever lived—really lived—before meeting them."

Daoine smiled, although sadness colored his eyes. He said nothing for a moment. Instead, his gaze fell away and he remained in quiet thought. "I do," he said after what seemed like a while.

"Who was she?"

"Her name..." Just as the sadness came, it went. Daoine smiled wider, this time letting the warmth spread across his face. "It matters not anymore. It is the past. Rest now."

A soft shuffle sounded as Daoine stood and turned to exit.

"I tried to figure out for so long why it happened to me," Jace said, staring up at the bright ceiling. "Death resulting from the feed. Even when I tried to hold back as you and Julian instructed and not take as much, I still took their life. I felt cursed as if something in me destroyed the blood of the living when I fed. It used to bother me that I never knew why it happened, but Ariya changed all of that. Once she lived, I felt like anything was possible." Finally, he turned to Daoine once again. "I can't lose her now."

Jace wasn't sure if it was a declaration he made aloud, a promise to himself or a plea to Daoine. It didn't really matter. Whether it was to himself or to the world around him, he was going to see it through.

And no one was going to stop him.

* * * *

Ariya awoke in darkness. The stench of rotting pipes and wet cement filled the air. No doors or windows. Just walls. The ceiling opened up to a spacious set of rafters that looked unfinished. A warehouse of some sort? She tried to shake off the haze of fatigue weighing her down. Leaning forward, something yanked on her wrists, keeping her from moving. No matter how much she tried to wriggle from its grasp, the constraints held her in place. Her body jolted awake with the realization that her ankle and torso were also tied to the chair. A slight movement sent a tear into her thin wings, sparking jolts of pain down her back.

"Don't move too much, sweet Faerie. You may clip your wings." Raine stepped out from the deep shadows with a smirk upon his craggled face.

Ariya tried to get a handle on her gag reflexes and hoped she didn't lose the battle. "Why did you capture me?"

"Every deal needs a bargaining tool, my dear." Another voice. This one all too familiar to her, but she couldn't place it. She heard him someplace deep within her memories, or dreams—somewhere.

Then the figure stepped out. He stood at medium height sporting a thin, closely shaved beard, deep gray eyes, and a strong jaw. His long hair was slicked and tied back into a short ponytail. The suit and style reminded her of Chicago in the 1940s when human gangsters ran the streets. Something about him harkened back to a time even long before then...

He stepped closer to the light with a band of Rens joining him. The way they sized her up, Ariya felt like the last meal on a doggie platter.

"Oh, come now, my dear," the leader said. "You have abilities that far outweigh our own. I'm sure you will be happy to lend that power to better use."

The shorter young man next to him leered and in that instant his look resembled one she had known all too clear.

"At least tell me to whom I am speaking."

"Blakedon. You can call me Blakedon. And those restraints are there so you won't try anything cute before the time comes."

The man next to him approached her with a knife poised in his hand. Before she could speak another word, he pulled back her hair and wrapped his arm around her neck. The cold, hard blade touched her skin, penetrating it to the point that it nearly cut into her. "So soft," he said. "I would hate to hurt such a pretty canvas."

"Come now, Avery. We need to take care of business first." Blakedon approached her with a cloying smirk on his face. "I'm sure you have a telepathic connection with the Ashen Twilight House, hmm? Namely, one Jace Archane?"

Ariya tried to keep from shaking as she heard Jace's name. As the one called Avery leaned closer to her, she caught a whiff of his hot breath wafting over her. Death. She smelled the blood pumping within his veins. An ability she didn't have before until now, thanks to Jace's blood. Something dark and earthy settled within his scent. He wasn't a Shifter. He was—Archane! A distant relative of Jace and Julian? But how?

Avery dipped the blade deeper into her skin and fisted his hand in her dark curls to hold her.

Blakedon took a few more steps toward her. "Answer me!"

"Yes!" she said. "I have that ability."

"Then I suppose you can send a message to him, hmm?"

She swallowed deeply. "What is your message?"

****

"And just where do you think you're going?"

Jace slipped into his jeans, carefully buttoning and zipping them up. "I'm going out there to find Ariya. I'm not leaving her in the hands of those animals."

Julian stepped in front of the doorway as Jace rushed toward it.

"Out of my way, Julian!"

"And what good will it do? Rushing in like a one man army with no plan and no idea of what kind of tricks they have up their sleeve?"

"I have a few tricks up my own and I'll find out what they plan to do to her." He moved to pass Julian, but the older Nightwalker slammed his hand on the doorframe, blocking Jace.

"Uncle, let me through!"

"No! Not until you rest and let us find out where she is!"

"Uncle, please get out of—" Pressure. Sharp, like a bolt of electricity nearly crippled Jace's mind, sending him reeling to the floor.

"Jace?"

Jace grabbed his head, bending down to bear through the throbbing. "What's going on?" Waves of sharp pain struck his head. He tried to hold on to something, anything that would make the room stop spinning.

"Jace—"

Julian's voice felt like a distant tune in his head, straining to be heard. It descended into the background of his mind as an image washed over him.

Ariya was strapped to a metal chair in the middle of a huge, open room. No, a warehouse. Shadows surrounded her with little light except for a small hanging bulb like in one of those old movies. She looked right up at him and as he drew closer, a figure appeared with one arm holding her and the other with a knife at her throat.

"Jace." Her voice was soft, pleading. "Help me, Jace. They're holding me in an abandoned warehouse on 32nd and Cactus. Please hurry."

Just as quickly as the image came, it slipped away. Then the pressure in his head lessened. He struggled to breathe against the hardwood floor and he fought to gain back his strength. Thankfully Julian was there, kneeling to help him stay steady.

"I know where she is."

"You can't be sure, Jace," Daoine's voice came from outside the room shortly before he entered. His words were laced with worry and caution. "It could be a trap."

"Daoine's right, Jace," Julian said. "They could be trying to lure us there."

Jace shook his head. "No, I felt her. I couldn't mistake the scent of her blood mixed with mine. It was her. She kept begging me to help her."

"There still has to be a reason why she was allowed to send the message." Julian shook his head. "The Shifter Rens aren't idiots. If they have a plan, they will enforce it no matter who they harm in the process. They suddenly decided to take action now and wasted no time in having her contact you. Jace, that draws some serious red flags up."

"It doesn't matter!" Jace growled as his head shot up toward the two. "They may be using her to bring a new elemental here, just like Ariya suggested. Maybe they need me, I don't know, but I'm going to find out. On my way there, I'll send out my location so that you can track us." He reached out to the nearest wall and pulled himself to his feet.

"Jace—"

Jace moved toward the hall, brushing past Michael as he rushed in to see the commotion.

"Jace, it is not wise—"

"Don't tell me what is and isn't wise, Julian," Jace said, whipping around to face his uncle. "I care about this woman more than anyone else I have ever cared for. I refuse to let her die. I won't accept it. If I have to go at it alone, then so be it."

Jace moved away from them with a renewed strength flowing through his veins. He had to dress quickly and get to Ariya as soon as possible. First, he needed to find his phone to make a couple of calls to some very trusted friends.

* * * *

Blakedon whispered something to his men before they retreated, leaving him alone. Ariya strained to hear, but despite her amplified Nightwalker hearing and Fae powers, it was too low. From the satisfied smiles on their faces, it couldn't have been good.

Jace, I hope you're coming.

Avery stayed in the room. Thankfully he had finally let go of her and now stood by, twisting his blade in one hand while resting it against the other. Despite the handsome Archane family resemblance, he still looked like something that was thrown out with the trash. A petty gangster playing at being the bad boy.

Blakedon stepped into her view. Pulse, calm. Blood, stronger now when he stepped closer. Something was wrong. His blood wasn't Shifter blood, nor Nightwalker. Not even Lycan.

Ariya blinked as the realization hit her.

Human blood!

A sly smirk cornered his face as if he read her thoughts.

"It's time for you to do your job now, Ariya," he said.

She looked from him to Avery, the young Nightwalker was still and calm as he watched her. "I don't understand."

"The elemental creature is yours. It's a funny thing, you Fae are so bound to the Earth. Full of lightness and brightness and all that crap. But when you finally create something beautiful from the darkness, you don't even realize it."

Ariya's blood froze as she heard his words. Now she understood. "You created the elemental didn't you, mortal?"

Blakedon chuckled and nodded as if he had been praised for his inventiveness. "But of course. I created and summoned it, yes, but it lives and is strengthened by Aziza Faerie blood. Ariya, I've been waiting centuries for this moment when your powers rose to its peak. It's just what I need to bring down Julian from that high throne of his. A throne that rightly belonged to me."

"You killed my people and my family!" She couldn't contain it any longer. Gritting her teeth, she tried to force herself free, but her constraints only gripped her tighter.

Avery chuckled behind Blakedon as if he were watching the show of the century.

Blakedon grinned and pointed. "That's it! That's the spirit, Ariya. Let it roam free and call it. It is yours!"

Ariya wished she could conjure a pulse of energy to her hands and send them both to the fiery outer realm. She wanted to see them suffer just as she was sure her people and family suffered before her escape. Most of all, she wanted out of these supernatural restraints to defend herself.

A swoosh of wind brushed around her, as the anger within her had turned in a tangible force floating around her.

Somewhere in the distance, it was coming.

Soon, there would be no way of stopping it.

* * * *

Jace cursed the car accident a thousand times over as he rushed to the front door of the Ashen Twilight House. Not only for the obvious reasons but for the loss of his cell phone that was probably crushed or forgotten somewhere on the street. No matter. Another member of the House lent him his phone. Luckily he'd already memorized the two numbers for the only people who could help him now.

"Gael, I need you and Rich to meet me at the warehouse on 32nd and Cactus now!"

"Did you find Ariya?" Gael's smooth accent filtered through the phone.

"Not yet, but that's where she told me they were holding her."

"She told you?"

Jace could already imagine the look on his face. "Trust me on this. I'll explain when you get here."

"Very well. I'll contact Rich and make sure he meets us there. And Jace?"

"Yeah?

"You sure this isn't a trap?"

"If it is. We're about to find out."

"See you soon."

Jace grabbed a nearby coat off the hook to cover his bare torso.

"Jace!"

He didn't stop and turn until his hand reached the doorknob.

Julian rushed down the stairs, buttoning up a black designer jacket over matching silk pants. "We're coming with you." He gestured to the other Nightwalkers conversing in the foyer. Right away they knew to follow with no questions asked. "I'm not going to let you go out there alone. If it is a trap, we'll be ready for it."

"We'll follow right behind," Michael raced down the stairs with his Lycan members behind him.

Daoine slowly descended the stairs and headed toward Jace. "I'll stall as much as I can until everyone arrives."

Jace pushed open the door and thanked Daoine with a nod. A moment later, the flapping of wings and a hawk's cry announced the Shifter's change and ascension into the air.

Although a tightness had settled in his stomach and heart, Jace already felt a little more productive with everyone behind him. It was much better than lying in bed waiting around to hear sparse updates. He didn't notice Julian had reached him until a cold hand settled on his shoulder.

"Don't worry, Jace. We will find her." Julian started toward the curb with the Nightwalker clan behind him. "We'll take the Lincoln. Jace, ride with me."

They filed into the cars along the street and the garage while Jace and Julian climbed into the black Lincoln parked out front. The car engine roared to life and in moments, Julian veered down the streets toward Paradise Valley.

Jace couldn't help thinking how much his life had changed since Ariya had entered it. The last time he experienced such a dramatic change was centuries ago when he had first taken a life. Right then and there, he had promised himself never to get close to another again. Never say never.

"I try not to think of those times," Julian said as he drove down the dark streets. The shadows of the yellow streetlights flashed now and then on his stern face.

"The castle was where it all began," Jace said, leaning on the door. "When you and Daoine arrived on our doorstep, it was the end of one war and the beginning of another."

"With our own private little war in between."

Jace's heart sank at the words. Before the sun rose, the servants he fed upon lay dead within the castle walls. The others who lived had their minds wiped and would awaken with no idea of the events earlier that morning. Julian taught him and his father how to cloak the servants' thoughts, a gift that Daoine had passed down to him. One of the new joys of being Nightwalkers.

Later that evening, they all left the castle to seek refuge in the forest on their way to Wallachia where the real battle began.

"Somehow I think this confrontation will be something comparable to that time." Julian murmured as he stared ahead. He turned around a corner, taking a side street away from the busier streets.

Something flashed and moved in Jace's peripheral vision. He turned to see a ripple as the air shifted and moved a few miles away. Right behind the light, a large hawk led a school of others hawks with doves and crows behind them. "There! I think that's our stop."

Julian stepped on the gas and headed straight for the light as the line of cars followed close behind.

Jace held on and hoped it wasn't too late.

# Chapter 21

The elemental creature circled outside the warehouse. A dark, ethereal predator searching out its prey. Ariya's mind flashed back to the first time it haunted her in the Fae realm. Just like then, it slowly closed in, as if sizing up its prey. She knew exactly what was coming. Through the skylights up ahead, the thick translucent creature rippled in waves, slowly making its way to her. It seemed like many lifetimes ago since the last Elemental's kill. Now the nightmare was replaying itself once again.

Avery reached behind her and severed the ropes, freeing her hands. He grabbed her arm and pulled her off the chair before shoving her to the floor.

Rage coursed through her, mixing with cold fear as she hit the ground. She turned around to face the Nightwalker and raised her hands, poised to attack.

"Do it," Avery breathed in a low voice.

"That's right." Blakedon watched nearby with glee sparkling his eyes. "Summon your power and give into its call. It'll make this a whole lot easier."

The rippling air swirled around before it dove through the skylights without causing a shudder or a sound. Blakedon leaned down to grab her shoulders and hold her body in place.

"Let go of me!"

The elemental circled near Ariya, a force of waves and motion, blowing away anything in its path.

Blakedon held her still, waiting for the inevitable. As the elemental creature dove straight for her, a chorus of clashes broke through the air followed by a rain of glass showering down from above. A dark bird swooped through the window, intercepting the Elemental's advancement toward her. Another bird dove down, then another. Birds of all shapes, sizes and breeds flew down and around Ariya, protecting her. She caught sight of their eyes. Blue like Daoine and his Shifter Elves. The Ashen Twilight House had arrived!

The Shifter Rens filtered into the room and quickly changed into large birds. An aerial battle broke out between the winged Shifters.

Somewhere down the hall a loud crash occurred, signaling a door had been broken in. The pattering of loud footsteps caused the floor to creak and moan under their weight. The strangers grew closer.

"Ariya!"

All of her senses sprang to life at the sound of the voice she had missed for too long. "Jace! Jace! Back here!"

Blakedon wrapped a thick arm around her neck, forcing her to stumble backward. Sounds of streaking birds and flapping wings filled the air around them. Ariya wasn't sure where to turn without seeing one bird tearing another apart. She hoped the House of Shifter Elves were holding their own against the Rens. The massive battle continued amidst the darkness and under the thin stream of moonlight.

"Let her go!" Jace yelled as he raced in with Julian and the Nightwalkers behind him.

Shifters in their human form jumped out from all sides. The Nightwalkers immediately dove in to fight with hard fists, knocking and kicking the Rens to the ground. Jace hauled a Ren up into the air, his eyes burning with a fiery rage as he lifted his lips to bare his fangs. His thumb dug deep into the Ren's neck, penetrating the skin until blood rushed to the surface. With a flick of his arm, Jace tossed him away and focused ahead to find Ariya.

As he started toward her, Avery jumped in front of them and raised his knife toward Jace. A devious smile twisted his lips. Jace bared his fangs and hissed, ready to strike. His eyes narrowed on Avery and a look of disbelief cornered his face.

"It can't be," he breathed.

Avery chuckled. "What? Are you shocked that someone has the balls to stand up to you? My father was right. You think you have such entitlement by naming yourselves as leaders. You go electing yourselves as some high council as you cower under Mortal eyes. Doesn't make you prince or lord over anything!"

Avery sprang forward, aiming to strike. Jace leaned to the side, dodging the knife. When Avery lunged again, Jace was quick to move. He grabbed his arm, pulled him forward and launched a back-handed hit to knock him down.

"You don't have the balls to stand up to anything," Jace said, watching Avery fall.

Avery pushed off the ground and flipped onto his feet, starting toward Jace with anger in his eyes.

"Enough!" A voice yelled nearby.

Ariya looked up at the sky, but the birds and elemental itself was gone. Daoine and his Shifters emerged from the back of the shadows on each side of Julian while the Shifter Rens stood on the opposite side.

Disbelief and shock darkened Julian's calm face as he looked past her. Slowly, he shook his head.

"No—"

Blakedon laughed behind her, his body shaking as if he had heard the joke of the century. "Surprised, Julian? I have been waiting years for this moment ever since I heard you survived that battle with the English. Daoine, it's an honor to be in such an esteemed presence. He was right about you. I see you and Julian created the empire you had set out to achieve. After leaving his wife and child behind, of course. You had no right to leave her like that."

"You know I had no choice, Liam," Julian said. "I had to spare her the knowledge of knowing—"

"Save it for someone who doesn't know you as well as I do, Julian. I stood by your side all those years as your first guard and I stepped in to raise your family. You didn't deserve them and you don't deserve the adulation you receive now. All that is about to change."

"Father—" Avery turned to Blakedon. "What is this about?"

"Father?" Jace stepped toward the younger Nightwalker and sniffed the air near him. "You...are an Archane. He is not your blood. From what I can tell, he is not even an immortal. He's human!"

"Father, just kill them all!" Avery said shaking his head. "This constant back and forth is a waste of breath."

Julian froze as he watched the scene in silence. Ariya tried to steady her breathing as she sensed his emotions. Recognition had finally hit home. Avery, the unborn son he left behind so many years ago with his wife, now stood before him very much alive.

"Enough of this," Blakedon said, releasing Ariya. For a moment, she thought she had been freed. Then he whipped her around to face him. Cold metal appeared in her view and then a quick glint of light.

It took her a moment to realize the knife had touched her skin.

"No!" Jace yelled.

It had happened so fast.

The sting of pain clawing at the skin of her neck.

The cool air hitting some kind of wetness there.

Ariya reached up to touch something wet and sticky flowing down her neck. Blood. Nausea settled in her stomach as the pain worsened. Her head felt so light. She needed to sleep. Just lie down and...

"Ariya!"

Jace lunged toward her, but Avery moved in a flash. The younger Nightwalker turned around and caught Jace by the throat, tackling him to the ground.

Pain settled in Ariya's stomach as she fell to the ground. A small pool of blood began to form beneath her as more spilled from the wound.

This couldn't be the end.

Not like this.

All the sound had ceased in the room. Everyone's eyes were on her. She wasn't going to die so easily. If her life ended now, she would go down fighting all the way.

With all the strength she had left, Ariya summoned an energy boost that caused her body to glow. She turned to Blakedon towering over her. Pushing herself off the ground, she grabbed Blakedon's throat and leaped into the air holding him.

A burst of energy emitted from her hands, like a force of gravity that boosted them upward toward the sky. She ignored the rush of blood soaking her neck and the front of her dress. The throbbing pain pulsing along her throat refused to ease. The Elemental swarmed toward the power as if pulled by a magnet and swooped up under her. She gasped loudly, feeling the creature collide with her body. Soon they hit the top of the roof, but their bodies didn't crash into a physical structure. The mortal realm melted away into the Aziza Faerie realm in mere seconds.

Light emanated from the heavens as Ariya flew upward along the massively tall tree trunks of the forest. Blakedon broke away and fell to the ground as she continued ascending. Ariya's wings sprang open into flight but the elemental surrounded her. She tried to fly, but the trees swayed all around her, closing every bit of clearing.

Then she felt it.

A thousand needles invaded her body, cutting into her, ripping her flesh from each and every direction. She turned over and saw Blakedon watching with awe and determination as the creature tried to invade her body and absorb her powers.

Something was wrong.

The creature immediately retracted and freed her.

Ariya felt a slight sense of relief as she watched the Elemental darken into a thick black and gray form as if it had been poisoned.

Then it hit her. What remained of Jace's blood had mixed in with her Aziza blood. She didn't know what effects it had on the creature, until now. The creature screamed high-pitched screeches of pain. Its rippling waves writhed and folded within itself. It was dying.

Ariya tried to flair out her wings to gain wind power, but she couldn't. Looking over her shoulder, the soft gossamer wings were torn to near shreds. Instinct forced her arms and feet to flail as she tried to fly, but it was too late.

Free falling toward the ground, she watched with wide eyes as the elemental turned from a smooth ripple in the air into a red, orange and yellow ball of fire. Pain, destruction and death immediately flashed across it along with...Blakedon's face within the fiery image? But how?

Finally, the elemental exploded into a burst of flames.

"No!" Blakedon screamed from the ground. "What have you done?"

Ariya's strength left her as she gave into gravity's pull and fell toward the grassy ground. Blakedon yelled something, but his words were indecipherable to her ears.

The Aziza Faerie realm slipped away to the mortal realm. The roof of the warehouse appeared behind her just as she fell to the concrete floor.

"Ariya!"

Jace...

He was coming close, but it was too late. The seduction of darkness already had her.

Mind numbing pain shot throughout her body and she tried to move, despite her limb's objections.

Finally, the sweetness of sleep slowly came over her.

* * * *

"Ariya, no!" Jace kneeled down to Ariya's body and scooped her into his arms. The past few moments happened in an instant. One minute, both she and Blakedon were right there. The next, a ripple of waves flashed in the air and they were gone. Later, Ariya came through and before Jace could take Avery down, he had watched her body collide with the concrete. His body heated with anger and fear. She couldn't die! He couldn't lose her now!

"Ariya," Jace murmured. Her heartbeat slowed by the moment. "Ariya, you have to hold on. Do you hear me? I'm not going to lose you now. You're not going to die on me!"

Jace ripped back his sleeve and raised his wrist to his lips. He winced slightly as his teeth penetrated the skin, aiming for the thick vein in the middle. A few drops of his own blood spilled into his mouth. Thankfully, adrenaline dulled any pain he would feel from the cut. Once he severed the vein, he pressed his wrist against her mouth hoping to get a response. Any kind of movement would ease the fear that he had lost her. Come on, Ariya. A movement of her lips or a quickening of the pulse. Anything!

"Ariya, drink now! Do you hear me!"

Angry tears forced its way to his eyes, blurring his vision and he wiped them away.

"Ariya, please."

Slowly her heartbeat stopped—and then silence. He stood there, frozen as he watched her warm body lying still underneath him.

Jace threw back his head and released a primal scream. Nothing mattered now. Not anymore. He lost the one thing in his life that mattered. Ariya showed him that a life without love or meaning spelled death. The only thing he cared about—and loved—had been ripped away.

Not again.

He didn't even have a chance to tell her how he truly felt. How much she had changed his life.

And how much he loved her.

Gently he lay Ariya down, peering up at Avery with hate in his eyes and heart. Jace pushed up from his knees and raced toward him with a raging fire fueling his body. He lunged toward Avery with all his might, tackling him to the ground. Raising his fists, he pummeled into Avery over and over again, cracking his knuckles against skin, muscle and bone. No longer was he the thinking, feeling immortal man. No more. Like a machine now working on ordered instinct, he only saw red and no end in sight to the carnage beneath him. Voices screamed around him to stop, but he couldn't hear them. He didn't want to hear them. He felt Julian's arms hauling him up, but he yanked his arms away. Over and over he landed his fists into what was once Avery's face and now was quickly becoming a bleeding mess. He didn't care. Every hit was for Ariya, for himself, and all the times they lost because of these Shifters and that cursed Blakedon who took her from him.

"Ease off, Jace!" His uncle forced him backward away from Avery's still body.

"Freakin' Ren needs to taste his own blood while I beat the life out of him!" Jace yelled at the top of his lungs. He launched a kick, knocking Avery in the ribs with a sickening crack.

Avery recoiled as he spit blood and fell over into a fetal position to shield his body.

Julian held onto Jace as he pulled him away. "He is my son! My son, Jace."

The words echoed in Jace's mind as he watched two Nightwalkers help Avery's limp body up. Behind them, the Lycans stood in their pure form as they held the Shifter Rens captive. Curious gazes watched him, but Jace didn't care. His mind was a complete mess. His body now numb. He had lost Ariya and all he wanted now was revenge. Most of all, for the life that they could have shared together.

# Chapter 22

The Highlands of Scotland had proved to be a formidable refuge in the days they retreated from home. After burning the dead bodies of the servants lost in the massacre, the rest were left to wander with clouded minds as to where the Archanes went. Jace remembered the trek across the green mountains that stretched far beyond the horizon and high to the heavens. The biting cold air whipped around them. Once harsh weather in their mortal forms now a comfort to their new bodies. They traveled during the dusk, once the sun dipped behind the shadowy horizon and into the night when mortals rested.

As they walked for nights on end across the hills, he kept thinking about their home. The death of Sophie, one of their maidservants, still weighed heavily on his heart. That was the moment he had changed. An even greater change would take place as they came upon the tracks of men tied to ancient torture devices that had cut their skin, castrated them, and ripped their limbs from their sockets.

Even now after all these centuries he remembered the shock on his father's face upon seeing the inhuman devices. Daoine had told them that Humans used it to rid the world of the 'monsters' that the townspeople feared but were actually immortals. The display would be a warning, setting an example of what would happen if any travelers or immortals wandered by.

Jace's heart dropped when he found out the tortured individual was a Mortal, perhaps killed upon suspicion from the townspeople. He realized something then. None of these Mortals could be trusted. Their bloodthirsty hearts feared anything different from the norm. As the legends of his Nightwalker brethren expanded, twisted and changed throughout the centuries, he wondered if there would ever be a time to walk safely amongst them without any fear.

Jace sat back in the chair with thoughts of the past clouding his mind. After things had settled at the warehouse, the houses gathered the remaining Rens and held them at a nearby home safely away from the location of the Ashen Twilight House. Jace insisted on taking Ariya. He refused to believe she was gone. There had to be some way to save her. He wouldn't give up until he found one.

Blakedon's whereabouts were still undetected in the mortal realm. Everyone assumed he remained in Ariya's Aziza realm. Whether he was dead or alive was still a question. Jace hoped beyond hope that the elemental had been defeated. It would leave Blakedon a mere mortal without his supernatural beast to command. Then Ariya's people could take care of him as they saw fit without any altercation.

He still wondered one thing: How could Blakedon be mortal and still live all of these centuries?

And Avery, the boy Blakedon had passed as his own all these centuries. Jace's cousin. He nearly beat the younger Nightwalker to death for putting Ariya in danger. The last he heard, Julian kept Avery in one of the rooms of the house. Not a good idea, but it wasn't up to him anymore. Avery was his uncle's problem now.

Jace shifted in the old Victorian chair. This wasn't over. Far from it.

He looked over at Ariya's still body resting on the bed next to him. Her soft, dark face still beautiful and peaceful in the serenity of death. Earlier, he had bandaged her neck, hoping it would heal from the knife wound. All she needed now was time.

He reached out to grab her hand, holding it as he gently rubbed his thumb over her soft skin. She was cold as ice to the touch and completely void of any movement or feeling. Her dark curls lay splayed around her heart-shaped face. Hours ago, when he had placed her on the large cushioned bed, he made sure not to damage her wings anymore than they had been. Now he watched her laying still—his sleeping beauty— and he couldn't help thinking about what she said earlier when they spoke of life and death.

"Do you really believe I have been tainted? The hands of death stretched far beyond your world and well into mine long before I saw what Julian did to that Ren back there. The only difference is, death had an understanding with life before that person conjured up the elemental. Nature understood the cycle and only took a life when it was ready. Not a moment before. Each creature knew their spirits were adopted temporarily and for a greater reason. But this...this world kills at random with no purpose. Yet there is a light that makes everything worth living. Worth fighting for."

He didn't come from her world, nor did he belong there. But if death and life had extended from her atmosphere to his, there was a chance he could reach her. Ariya's spirit was not ready. He knew it deep down in his heart and soul; she was not prepared to go yet.

Gently he unfolded the wrap around her neck and tried not to wince at the large jagged cut that broke her beautiful dark velvet flesh.

Jace slowly rose to his feet, still holding Ariya's hand while his other tenderly caressed her forehead. He focused on her with all the energy of his life-force and the power of hundreds of years. Everything he had within him—every ounce of feeling he had shut down to keep from making a connection to another—now rose to the surface. His chest expanded and fell with the power and breath of life.

"Listen to me wherever you are, Ariya. You are not ready to go yet. You have come too far to quit now. You've awakened something in me that has been dormant for centuries and I'm not about to go back to that life. I can't go back to that life...or any other. Not without you. You have to fight to come back. You hear me? I'm right here fighting with you. Right here! Just come to me. Come back to me, Ariya. I need you. I—I love you. Do you hear me! I love you, Ariya. And I'm not about to let you go!"

His voice rose with the power of his emotions. He then felt a presence in the room behind him. The three Patriarchs stood proudly behind him, but it didn't matter who heard his words.

His grip grew tighter until he felt a force of power surging like electricity within his body. A glow surrounded her body before integrating itself with her. A sudden burst of light emanated from her like droplets of rain. Ariya's eyes shot open and she breathed in sharply, loudly and full of life. She inhaled and exhaled as her eyes filled with vitality and life. She looked around the room, digesting her surroundings until she finally turned to him.

"Jace?"

Her voice sounded like a chorus of bells to his ears. A smile lifted his lips as he caressed her cheek and leaned in toward her. "Yes, baby. It's me. I'm right here." He crushed his lips against hers, coaxing her mouth open in a frenzy to consume her lips with his own.

She reached up and wrapped her arms around him. As she did, the cuts and abrasions on her body began to heal themselves.

"I thought I'd lost you."

She laughed softly at first until the sound turned into tears of joy. Again and again she kissed him and he welcomed each touch and sensation.

Jace stepped back, almost losing his balance. His hand whipped out in mere seconds to grab the side of the bed to steady himself.

Ariya jumped up and reached out to steady him. "Jace, what is it?

"I nearly drained myself giving you all of my power. It was worth every bit of it to bring you back." He stopped short, noticing her eyes shifted to look over his shoulder. Jace followed her gaze.

There at the frame of the door stood the three Patriarchs of the Ashen Twilight House; Daoine with Julian and Michael standing behind him. Julian lowered his gaze once Jace saw him and quickly took his leave with Michael behind him. He nodded his thanks to them, feeling more grateful for their help than he ever had in his life.

"Jace," Ariya's soft voice called his attention once again. "What happened?"

He turned back to Ariya, eager to take her in his arms and never let go.

"I thought I had lost you in that warehouse. When you fell back into our world and—" He swallowed deeply, recalling the nauseating memory he was too afraid to voice out loud.

The touch of Ariya's hand upon his calmed him immediately. He closed his eyes and reveled in the comforting feel of her skin on his. A tear cascaded down his cheek. Never before had a simple gesture given him such relief.

"Liam Blakedon." Her eyes widened. "He's still alive and in the Aziza realm!" She bolted upright to move, but Jace clutched her hand to still her. "You don't understand, Jace, I have to go back!"

"You need to rest, Ariya." Daoine's hushed voice extended across the entire room. "And you do as well, Jace. You especially need to regain your strength. We are handling things."

"What about Avery?" she asked, looking from Daoine to Jace. "He's an—"

Jace felt his jaw tense. "Archane—I know." He lowered his head and turned slightly to the side to speak to Daoine. "Does Julian know?"

"He is with him now," Daoine replied. "Questioning him."

Jace closed his eyes, taking a breath.

"You can try to tap into the room, but I'm sure Julian sealed it. He wanted to be alone with the boy to speak with him."

Before Daoine could finish, Ariya had climbed off the bed, rushed passed Daoine and started down the hall.

* * * *

The old Victorian residence had become like a second home to her after the many visits over the past few weeks. Although, Ariya had no idea where to find Julian by location alone, she tapped into her senses to help find him. Two guards in dark designer suits and matching thin-trimmed beards stood in front of a closed door at the end of the hall. That had to be it. As she approached the guards, their faces remained as blank as stone. Ariya didn't let them deter her as she approached the room.

"Where is he?" Passion colored her words, determined and naked of any propriety she had been taught growing up.

They didn't say a word as they stepped aside and gestured down the hall.

As she approached the direction they pointed, Ariya sensed the strong bonds nearby. Julian and Avery. She raised her hands and sent forth a forceful wind that kicked the door open.

Inside, Julian was sitting in a chair next to Avery, who was still unconscious on the large, Victorian style canopy bed. Large red welts and cuts nearly rendered the young Nightwalker unrecognizable.

Anger settled upon Julian's face as he stepped into her view.

"How dare you barge in here like you own this house!" he barked at her.

"This man has no right to be here, Julian," she said, refusing to back down. "After all the lies throughout the centuries, he still doesn't want to believe he is your blood. He will put the house in danger if he remains here any longer."

"That is no business of yours and you have no right to come in here and lecture me like I am one of your servants!"

Something stopped her from retorting as a realization hit her. Jace's presence was strong in the room. Ariya turned to see Daoine and Michael standing beside him.

"Jace, get her out of here before I do something both of you will regret."

"Jace—" she said.

He went to her, regret softening his blue eyes. "You shouldn't have raced in here with that outburst, Ariya."

"Julian is blinded by his guilt for leaving Avery and we don't know if his presence here is a trap for Blakedon."

Julian's mouth twitched. His body tensed and his steps were slow and deliberate as he walked to her. "How dare you..."

Ariya held her hand up. "I have good reason to believe this, Julian. Blakedon is still in my realm. I have no idea what he has planned, but I have to look at all sides of this. You can't deny that his anger would make him desperate. He may try anything to get back at you. I have to stop him before he makes his next move for the sake of my people and yours." Her head suddenly felt light, her body weak. She grabbed her stomach and tried to calm down with slow, deep breaths.

"You're not going anywhere, Ariya," Jace said. He slipped an arm around her waist and grabbed her other arm to wrap around his shoulders. He nearly lifted her right off the ground with one arm alone. She felt like a feather in his embrace. "You need to rest now. I promise everything will be straightened out in the coming hours."

"Dawn is an hour or two away," Michael said. "Nothing will get done tonight before the sun rises. I've called some guards from the House of Lycan to stay here for the night. Ariya may be right. I, too, fear something is about to happen when we all least expect it."

"It might be best to keep extra watch today, Uncle," Jace said. "We have no idea what Blakedon may have up his sleeve." He turned to Avery resting on the bed. "Or if he may be using Avery to influence you. After all, you saw the power he has over Avery. This guy believes Blakedon is his fath—"

"Enough." Julian's words were weary rather than harsh. His gaze fell to the floor and his anger subsided slightly as he mulled over Jace's words.

Perhaps she should have taken a calmer approach to the situation, but she was desperate and angry after what Blakedon and his Rens did to her friends and to her. Julian had to understand that.

"Julian?" Daoine's voice boomed across the room after a few moments of silence.

Julian sighed and turned to Daoine. "You are right. We do need to keep extra watch tonight, but I'm not leaving his side."

"Uncle—"

"Jace," Julian said, holding up his hand. "Not another word. Take Ariya and go rest. Both of you." He turned to Ariya. "I'll forget this interruption due to the trials you have suffered earlier. However, I will not look kindly upon insubordination in my home within the future."

Ariya remained silent, nodding once.

"Please keep close," Julian said looking at Ariya and Jace. "I can't protect you both from afar. Not during this trying time."

One by one they filed out of the room, leaving Julian to his thoughts once again.

Ariya joined them. "I can walk." She smiled to Jace. "Thank you."

"You can lean on me if you want."

"Ariya."

Both she and Jace turned at the sound of Julian's voice.

He looked over at Avery for a moment before turning back to Ariya. His expression softened a little. "Thank you...for caring enough. And for thinking ahead where I could not."

She opened her mouth to speak but stopped. Julian was still hurt and reeling from the whole experience with Avery. It was a significant change from the first time she stepped in these halls. "Thank you for understanding, Julian."

Out in the hall, Michael stopped Jace and Ariya.

"Rich and Gael are in the foyer," he said. "I'm sure they'd want to see how you both are doing."

Jace turned to Ariya with a small smile. "Are you up for visitors?"

"Sure. I could use some good spirits about now."

He leaned in to give her a gentle kiss on her forehead before leading her down the stairs. Rich and Gael waited, just as Michael had said, with big smiles on their faces.

"Welcome back to the land of the living, Ariya," Gael said, gently pulling her in for a hug.

"We were all pulling for you down here," Rich chimed in. "Giving all of our energy as best as we could."

She shared a hug with Rich and Gael, then looked around. "Where's Joanna?"

Rich tried to stifle a grin as he lowered his head. "Well, that's a surprise I'm just going to have to save for another day."

"You and your surprises!" Jace smacked Rich's arm. "I'm going to strangle this wolf boy one day and that's going to be a surprise!"

Ariya laughed as she watched the display before her. She wished she could bottle it up for a later time when a memory of cheerful camaraderie would be needed.

"I think we should probably move it outside," Jace suggested gesturing toward the door. "The Patriarchs think something may be going down tonight with the Rens since they lost their leader."

The group started to the front door as the conversation continued.

"I can't believe it's Blakedon." Gael's words held the exasperation echoed in his dark brown eyes. "And all this time Julian had a son. What happened during all those centuries? What were they doing?"

"Plotting this moment, I imagine." Rich folded his arms and shook his head.

Ariya felt Jace's weight shift uncomfortably next to her before he spoke. "Rather than speculation I think we need to focus on what may happen soon."

Rich raised his eyebrow at Jace. After studying him, he shook it off and cleared his throat. "Well, I can't say I blame the Patriarchs. Something is definitely up in the air tonight. There are no signs of Rens anywhere outside of the group we're holding in the house. I just hope they don't decide to attack..."

Rich's voice descended in the background of her thoughts as Ariya felt Jace stiffen next to her. Following his gaze, she looked over to Vex standing a few feet away. His hands fisted and then opened at his side as he made his way over to them.

Rich fell to silence and all eyes focused on Vex before he began to speak.

"No matter what's happened between us, I would never wish that Ariya suffered in any way like Shelly did." Vex exhaled before continuing. "If you ever need any help ripping some Rens throats out, you know where to find me."

With that, he walked out the door and into the night. Ariya didn't have to look at Rich and Gael's expressions to sense their mouths gaping open in surprise.

Jace narrowed his eyes on the door before turning to them. "Okay, now I know something is definitely up. Did you see that?"

* * * *

After saying goodnight to Gael and Rich, Ariya followed Jace to the huge garage attached to the House. He grabbed a set of keys from one of the wall hooks then pointed to one of the green vintage Jaguar Roadsters. "That's our ride."

"Won't Julian be upset if you took the car?" Ariya asked as she walked with him.

Jace opened the passenger door and shrugged off the question. "He won't mind considering the circumstances. Besides, he knows I need something to get around. Until my Volga is back in shape, of course."

"Of course." She grinned.

The low engine hum was the only sound between them on the way home. Every time Ariya thought about the past events in the warehouse, she sensed his body stiffen until she comforted him with happier thoughts. Once they arrived at the apartment, the comfort of familiarity swept over her. She felt even safer when Jace locked the door behind them.

The window shades in the living room were still drawn. The candlelight that burned a scent of Jasmine was nowhere to be seen. Jace disappeared into the kitchen to grab a glass and a bottle from the fridge.

"When was the last time you fed?"

He shrugged as he poured himself a glass. "I can't even remember with so much going on."

"I'm sure you could use some, since you gave me most of your power."

He took a sip without saying a word.

Before she could speak again, Jace appeared next to her, leaning in to kiss her as he cradled her face. His baby blue eyes stared back at her with an intensity that made her feel warm all over.

"Did you really mean all those things you said back there?" Ariya said, focusing her dark eyes on him.

He nodded without hesitation. "Oh yeah. Never before had I meant the words so much than in that moment."

"Good." She brushed her hand against his cheek.

The heat emanated from her body and although Jace hadn't warmed yet from the drink, she could still feel an energy rising within him. Perhaps his powers were regenerating full force as it had done hers.

She continued. "Because I've been waiting to say the words to you though I never could find the right time."

"The present is as good a time as any," he said with a smile.

Ariya gently licked her lips, remembering his earlier confession to give her strength to voice hers. "I love you, Jace. I don't want to be parted from you ever again. When I was—I mean...when I—"

He grazed her lips with his finger. "Don't—What only matters is the present and how we spend the future together." He scooped her into his arms as he kissed her slow at first then harder with a determined passion.

Ariya pulled him close, crushing his body against hers. The fiery kiss held such an intense force, she wanted to lose herself in it forever. Her wings flared to life, fluttering behind her.

He carried her to his bedroom, dark from the lack of lights.

Where had the candlelights gone? Ariya blinked a few times until her eyes finally adjusted to the darkness. After setting her down on his bed, he stepped back.

"What are you doing?" Ariya said with the shadow of a smile on her lips.

Jace unbuttoned his shirt and let it fall to the floor before grabbing a box of matches from the dresser behind him. "I want to see you Ariya and I don't want to use my night vision to do it."

Ariya giggled, lifted her hand and blew him a kiss. Thin, smoky air rippled from her open palm, floating in a swirling motion to the bunches of candles sitting around the room. In seconds, all of them lit up with bright, flickering flames.

"Why didn't you just ask then?" Ariya grinned.

He moved toward her with a deep, husky laugh and placed a gentle kiss on her lips as his body covered hers. "Ever the smart one."

Ariya wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close. Despite her movement, he stayed still; looking at her as he was trying to burn her image in his mind. "What is it? What's wrong?" she asked him.

He caressed her face and Ariya swore she could get lost in the way his eyes looked upon her. "You are so beautiful," he said. "I don't know why I was so hesitant to be close to you. Right now there is no other place I'd rather be."

"What about your powers? Do you need rest before—I mean—"

"You're near full regeneration. Right now I need to feel you feed me with your body, Ariya. And I'll do the same for you. Just let your feelings for me rise to the surface."

Ariya pulled Jace closer, crushing her body against his chest as they kissed. Her hands slid across the hard planes of his torso and she felt the hardness of him pressing against her hot center. She wanted him. She wanted him to erase all that had happened the past few days. She wanted his body, his scent, his being connected with hers so they could truly be one. In exchange, she would share with him all that he meant to her.

"Jace," she breathed, feeling the power coursing in his veins.

He groaned before showering her neck with soft kisses. Hands and fingers gently brushed against her thigh, moving up to make quick removal of her skirt and panties. She maneuvered to slide out of them. With a soft shuffle, they fell into a pile on the floor. In seconds, her corset top joined them. Ariya fumbled for his button and zipper, moving the slacks down so he stepped out of them.

Jace slowly licked his lips and groaned once again as her hand gripped his hardened shaft before massaging him. Still she was amazed at the soft yet hard thick length of him. His hips moved against her hand and she felt her body tingle as she watched her power over him. Her rhythm intensified along his shaft as she held him tighter.

He breathed in sharply and smiled. "Ariya, you're killing me here," he said through gritted teeth. "You know you're going to have to pay for this."

She arched her head to look up at him. "Oh, I know."

Jace stroked the inside of her thigh, moving up to the apex of her center between her legs. She quivered when his thumb caressed her sensitive core, causing her body to jolt in reaction. Her grip tightened on him.

"I want you inside, Jace," she whispered. "I want us to be sealed as one forever."

She didn't have to ask twice.

Jace moved her to the bed, balancing his weight over hers.

Ariya matched his gaze, holding it as he slowly found his way to her. In one swift movement, he slammed into her and she let out a cry. Her legs wrapped around him, pushing him in, deeper and deeper into her depths. Jace moved over her, the shadows of the candles outlining the hard, muscled lines of his body. His handsome face contorted as pleasure threatened to consume his body.

Ariya leaned into him to fill her as she welcomed him home. Her fingernails dug into his back and in response, he throbbed within her. His hips settled into a rhythm from long, slow passionate thrusts to quickened, sharp strokes. She didn't know how long she could hold on before exploding, but she was dangerously close to the edge. He pumped his hips into her as a deep, growl caught in his throat. She gripped her legs tighter around him, clenching down to ease him to the edge of explosion.

"Are you ready?" His words were lost in a sea of shallow breaths.

She merely nodded, all words and coherent thought completely lost to her.

And then it happened.

Ariya's body illuminated a bright glow as Jace slammed into her one last time. His body became rigid against hers, emptying his essence into her as the climax overcame his body. All she could to was hold on.

All sound in the room was lost in his moan and her stifled cry as she gave into the rise of pleasure instigated at the tips of her toes and spreading throughout her entire body.

As he relaxed over her, Ariya threaded her hands through the strands of his damp hair. She urged him to lay his head down on her bare chest as he caught his breath. He maneuvered to move out of her when she tightened her legs around him once again.

"No wait," she breathed softly. "I want you to stay there. Inside." Gently she kissed the top of his head. "At least for a little while."

He settled down, careful not to crush her too much with his weight. She didn't mind. The heat of their bodies cooled under the night's atmosphere. Ariya basked in the glow of the light as she held onto Jace. She could already feel his breath slowing as he teetered on the edge of sleep. She gently stroked his hair and admired the handsome outline of his face in peaceful rest. Careful not to move him from his comfortable position, she leaned forward and again confessed the words that claimed her heart for so long.

"I love you, Jace."

In the silence that followed, she relaxed and fell asleep with a smile on her face.

* * * *

Ariya jolted awake and looked around the room. The candlelights had dimmed somewhat. A few hours must have passed. What time was it? She moved away from Jace's chest, noticing they had switched positions sometime during the night. She placed a kiss on his lips and realized...he was cold. His body was still, with nary a breath from his lips. Death had claimed him once again.

The curtains were still drawn in the living room. Had morning arrived yet? Sliding off the bed, Ariya couldn't shake the nauseous feeling growing in her stomach. Something didn't feel right.

She stepped into the hall and turned toward the large window. Small rays of light filtered out on the edges of the curtains. Another realization washed over her as she sensed something had changed within this realm.

Liam Blakedon had returned.

He was inside the Ashen Twilight House.

And it was broad daylight.

# Chapter 23

J _ulian sensed the darkness the moment it appeared in the hall. He stood on the terrace outside his room just as he did each morning since the Elemental's attack. The Nightwalkers in the house were in a deep sleep, but the Lycans and Shifter Elves were on high alert. It'd be too late to reach them now. Slowly, he turned toward the door as it opened. A bright influx of pulsating light moved like electric rays around a blurred figure standing tall and proud. The figure raised his hands, forming a ball of light over each of his palms._

" _Julian," Blakedon's voice echoed loud and clear. "Where is my son?"_

" _He's not your son, Blakedon."_

" _I raised that boy after you abandoned his mother as she carried him in his womb. What makes you think you are a worthier father when you couldn't even handle that responsibility?"_

Julian's hands formed into fists at his side. "I fought battles and tried to keep this world safe from its own bloody hands. I left because I loved them enough not to subject them to myself, a monstrosity at that time."

Blakedon chuckled, the sound surrounding Julian like a dark cloud. _"You didn't love them at all. Not like I did. I couldn't stand by watching what you did to Marie. After you left, neither could she. She died—with your name on her lips—and the child within her womb."_

Julian's stomach lurched as if the words kicked him directly in the stomach. A surge of fire shot throughout his body as he walked toward Blakedon.

" _That's right. She never had a chance to see her own son. After we'd wed, I took care of your family after you left but still she never stopped loving you. I planned to make a family of our own with her, but she died with you in her heart. No matter what I did or how I took care of her, it always came down to you. Yet they were dead to you the moment you left. It was my responsibility to succeed where you failed and be a father to Avery."_

" _But how? How can you have lived all of these years and still be human?"_

Blakedon smiled amidst the shadows. "You'd have to kill me to find that out."

" _So be it then," Daoine said, announcing his arrival behind Blakedon. Next to him Michael stood in full Lycan form. His nails formed into sharp, long claws at his side and his mouth watered with the taste of the inevitable kill._

The Patriarchs closed in on Blakedon, ready to strike.

****

Ariya awoke from her rest, feeling as if her mind had just rejoined her body.

What happened?

A foreboding feeling washed over her. It wasn't a dream she just had. She was experiencing something that was transpiring now!

She sensed blood being spilled, but she couldn't tell whose it was. Turning back to Jace resting on the bed, she watched him. He remained still, not even emitting a single breath. Every fiber of her being screamed to go and help the Patriarchs. There had to be something she can do to help them fight off Blakedon. A battle in full daylight had the possibility of exposing the Ashen Twilight House and she couldn't stand around watching it happen.

Then again, she couldn't leave Jace either.

She forced her mind to think of something.

Maybe there _was_ something she could do after all.

Ariya closed her eyes, took a deep breath and prayed that her actions would prove useful. She leaned over to Jace and placed a soft kiss on his lips. She made a silent promise to return as soon as possible.

For now, she had only one shot to make this idea work.

Ariya stepped out onto the city streets heading straight for the Ashen Twilight House. If only it were nighttime, then she would be able to fly since her wings had fully healed. Night loomed mere hours away, but she couldn't wait until dark. Traveling on foot would take much longer than needed, but it was all she had. She tried to stay hidden, thankful for any back streets she stumbled upon. Cars raced on the nearby streets under the light of the sun.

As she rounded the corner, the sky began to grow dark. She gazed up to see the blue sky clear of any clouds. What was happening? A dark orb slowly made its way over the face of the sun, blocking out its light.

People around the area stopped and climbed out of their cars to look up. Murmurs filled the air as they questioned each other over the anomaly. Ariya smiled to herself and silently thanked Julian as she dove behind a building to shed her jacket and take flight.

When she arrived, the House lit up with fuses of light joined by the sound of loud crashes. She raced up the steps and breathed a sigh of relief when the door opened. As she stepped into the hall, a heated, robust energy blast slammed right into her, throwing her against the wall. She fell to her hands and knees, taking a breath to gather herself as she looked up. Raine walked toward her with open palms at his side and a slimy smile on his ugly face. He held out his hands and leaned toward her.

"Try again, little Faerie whore." He chuckled.

The visual feast of battle surrounded her then. Nightwalkers! Julian must have brought the eclipse to help the Nightwalkers fight!

Now Rens swarmed the House and every member struggled to keep them at bay. If any of them ever made it out of here alive, they would have to find another place to hide out because the whole city of Phoenix surely new about the Ashen Twilight House now.

"Come on!" Raine yelled. He ascended into the air, using an invisible force to lift up to the ceiling.

Ariya's wings fluttered to life and she rushed toward him. Raising her hands, she thrust a ball of energy in his direction. In a blink of an eye, he morphed into a massive crow. Swooping down, he cawed and came at her, ready to attack. She folded her wings to free fall and grab him once he swooshed over her head. Before she could turn around, his body gave way to a large wolf.

Ariya flapped her wings as fast as she could before falling toward the ground. Raine turned around in her hold and barked loudly, baring his lips in a vicious growl. He lunged at her, mouth open and ready to dig his fangs right into her.

Not this time.

If she still had Jace's blood flowing through her, this next act had better work. Raine's muscles stiffened beneath his thick coat and he prepared to lunge again, Ariya extended her fingernails into giant claws and ducked as he leaned down to her. She arched her body and turned to attack, impaling Raine with her nails. His yellow eyes widened. His back bowed with a yelp on his lips before he crashed to the ground.

Ariya wiped Raine's blood on her skirt as she watched his body fall still. Slowly he shifted back to his ragged human form. _One down..._

Turning away from the corpse, she started up the stairs to Julian's room. Something moved in her peripheral vision and she turned to catch it. Raine slowly rose from the ground, his eyes focused on her. One word came to her mind as her instincts kicked into gear: survive.

Ariya stood her ground, ready to take him if he came at her again. He bared his teeth and claws, a hiss on his lips. Slow steps quickly turned into a full run. Adrenaline coursed through her body as she vowed to survive this second round.

Just as Raine drew close, a giant body of fur jumped in front of her and yelled with the force that shook the walls around them. The large Lycan waited until Raine got close and swiped its claws at him. Five deep gashes were left from his face and down his body. The large Lycan then pushed Raine back, sending him flying to the other side of the hall. As he lay struggling on the ground, the Lycan took the chance to run and jump on him. The sound of crunching mixed with Raine's loud cries as he fought under the Lycan's hold. Ariya couldn't quite see what was happening. Still, she turned her head away from the carnage.

After a moment, the sounds subsided and she took a peek. No movement.

"Thank you," she said with a nod to her rescuer.

The Lycan rose to his feet and turned to face her as he changed back into his human form. Vex. He exhaled a thick, low growl and nodded.

She smiled a second thanks before taking her leave.

The battle continued in the foyer. Ariya was careful to step out of the way of the fight, dodging the bodies that crashed into furniture, walls and each other.

Where were the Patriarchs?

A loud crash from the conference room drew her attention to the second floor. She raced up the steps and ran through the open doors at the top. Inside, Blakedon held Julian up by the throat. Michael and Daoine watched from the floor, their eyes focused and poised to attack. Why weren't they doing anything?

Blakedon's thick hand gripped Julian's neck, digging deep enough to draw the blood that streamed down his fingers. Ariya rushed forward, but an invisible grip latched onto her, holding her back.

_This is Julian's fight, Ariya._ Daoine's voice rang loud and clear in her head.

"No!" Avery rushed in and went straight to Blakedon. His skin had fully regenerated and there was no sign of any of the abrasions that covered his face just yesterday. "Don't hurt him, Father!"

Blakedon looked down at Avery with wide eyes. "You do not shed an ounce of feeling for this man!"

"You don't have to deny it any longer. I felt it the moment he and his nephew were near." Avery slowly shook his head. "I am an Archane."

"You are a Blakedon! Julian abandoned you and your mother and I loved you like you were my own. It's time to stop prolonging this and end it now." Blakedon tightened his grip causing Julian to cringe and yell in response.

"You _used_ my abilities to give you power," Avery said. Hurt and sadness laced his words.

Blakedon shook his head at the Nightwalker. "For us, son."

"I'm not your son!" Avery yelled.

"I did _this_ for both of us. Julian didn't deserve you after he left. I taught you everything because I cared for you and your mother. I did this to give you the throne you so rightly deserve among the immortals."

Avery looked up at Blakedon, quiet anger coloring his eyes. "And for that I am grateful. For a while, I did have a father who I believed cared for me. Ever since you met that Romanian cockalorum, all you cared about was destroying the houses. I did this because you said they were wrong and deserved their downfall. You conveniently left out how you were doing the same thing!" He shook his head. "I'm done using my blood to sustain your immortality."

His fingernails extended into sharp, elongated claws. Opening his mouth, he revealed his teeth slowly extending to pointed fangs.

"I won't accept it any longer." Avery hissed loudly before lunging and crashing into Blakedon, pushing him to the floor. Julian fell to the ground with a thud, coughing to recover himself. Screams filled the air as Avery bit down into Blakedon's neck and drank viciously like a hungry animal while he dug his claws into the man's sides.

"Now Julian! His power is down!" Daoine yelled over the commotion.

Julian, Daoine, and Michael raised their hands toward Avery and Blakedon. A shock of light blue energy rippled through the air like that of the elemental and attacked Blakedon's body. Avery continued to drink from him before letting out an ear-piercing cry. With each second that passed, Blakedon aged until he became a crumbled mess of bones, skin, and eventually dust. The bright energy hummed before slowly dissipating to nothingness.

Ariya rushed over to the window and looked up. The eclipse still cloaked the sun. The ground was several feet below them.

The house was floating high in the sky! A crowd had already gathered in the area where the house once stood.

"We can't land it back on the ground," Ariya said. "We've already been seen."

"To the desert then," Michael said, now back in his human form. He stepped into a pair of pants. "From there, we can at least figure out where to go while under the veil of secrecy."

_We can't hold the eclipse any longer._ Cidra's voice rang loud and clear in her mind.

Cidra? How—?

The Patriarchs asked us for help after we pushed the Human back to the mortal realm. We gave our assistance because we knew you were in trouble. Hurry Ariya.

Ariya looked up toward the sky where a circle of small flashing lights swirled under the eclipse. Amazon Aziza guards.

"The Aziza can't hold the eclipse," Ariya said to the Patriarchs. "We need to do something soon."

Michael reached down to help Julian to his feet. The tall Nightwalker turned to Avery, who still remained on the ground leaning over what was once Blakedon's body.

"The desert," Julian murmured. "We'll take it there just to be safe."

The house lurched and Ariya held on to the cove of the windowsill. The bright city lights whooshed by under them as they raced toward the open desert landscape ahead.

* * * *

Jace awoke to the darkness and looked around. Ariya was nowhere to be seen. The candlelights had died out some time ago and the air lacked any warmth. He climbed out of bed feeling the weary effect of sleep weighing on him. What time was it? Muted light streamed from the cracks of the closed blinds in the living room. Night hadn't fallen, but something woke him up.

Strange, he hadn't seen the sun in more than six hundred years. For that time, his body worked like clockwork; sleeping throughout the day and awaking in the night without fail.

Outside in the hall, footsteps thumped across the wooden floorboard. It sounded like a herd of elephants rushing toward the exit. The loud chorus of murmuring gave him a headache as he tried to decipher what was being said out in the hall. Something about the sun darkening. He rushed for the door but froze once he remembered his lack of clothes. The old lady down the way would get a whirl out of his naked state. He'd hate to be the one to give her a heart attack and a thrill at the same time. A quick change and then he could return.

As he finished buttoning his black satin shirt, Jace returned to the living room and opened the front door. Darkness enveloped the hallway. His neighbors held candles, flashlights and lights from their phones to illuminate the area around them. A preteen boy with a tan complexion and black short cropped hair ran along the hall toward the exit holding his phone light out before him.

"What's going on out there?" Jace asked, stopping him.

The boy's eyes widened as he flashed the light toward Jace.

Jace resisted the urge to hiss as he winced from the bright light that nearly blinded him.

"Eclipse. It was full on sunlight one minute then totally dark the next. They say it's the end of the world. Pretty wicked, huh?"

Jace looked toward the door feeling a sense of dread overcoming him. "Yeah, wicked."

"They won't let us leave, though. The entire city is in a blackout and the police are blocking areas off. I'm wondering how long it'll last?"

"Hopefully not long."

The boy ran to the exit to join a group of his friends waiting at the door.

Well, that rules out that exit. There had to be another way out.

Jace went back inside, closing the door behind him before going to the window. The blue sky had given way to darkness and the city's lights were sparse across the buildings. Jace spotted the large Victorian house suspended in the air several miles away. Flashes of light like electricity covered it and kept it balanced as it disappeared into the distance.

All eyes would surely be on the House. If any news crews still had electricity, they'd be taping every moment of this spectacle. One mind would be easy to cloud, but a whole city's worth? Even the Patriarchs together couldn't achieve such a feat so easily.

Somehow he had to get to the Ashen Twilight House.

Ariya, where are you?

* * * *

"You're going to stay, aren't you?"

Ariya stared ahead at the vast green landscape from the palace terrace. After the House had landed in Avondale, the Patriarchs planned to calm things down in the coming days. They assured her it was safe to return home. She missed Jace and wanted to go back to him, but she had to make sure her Fae guard reached their realm safely.

Now she watched the calm Aziza lands. So much had changed recently. No longer was she the naive outside Fae girl to the Ashen Twilight House. They had become a part of her. She even shared blood with a Nightwalker, a creature she thought was dangerous and dark. A man she thought would take her life. Now that same man would do anything including give his life to save her own. She couldn't stay away. He was part of her now and if she were to leave, something inside of her would be missing.

Cidra's voice fell to the back of her mind. She turned to face her guard and friend. "What did you say?"

"I said you are staying, aren't you?" Cidra's dark eyes held a hope to her answer being yes.

"I won't be far, Cidra," Ariya said, smiling warmly. "I am and always will be an Aziza. I just have two homes now."

"When will you return?"

"Soon. I just need to make sure things are well over there." Ariya hugged the one person she would call her best friend in all of the realms. "In the meantime, please stay and watch my family's home? Thank you again for helping us. I don't know if we would have made it without you."

Cidra smile disappeared once the hug broke. "Your friends are very...interesting. Do you trust them?"

Not long ago the question would have been 'no'. Now, after so much had happened, she couldn't think of any other answer to give. "I do. Definitely. And I know if we have any trouble they'll be ready and willing to help us as we did them."

Cidra squeezed her hand and nodded. "Go, then. We will await your return."

Ariya turned and headed for the door.

"Ariya?"

"Yes?"

Cidra fidgeted slightly as a question floated around her mind. "Is he worth it? The man that you keep thinking of?"

Ariya's mouth fell open. "How did you—"

"I can't fully read your mind, but I can sense remnants of thoughts and feelings. One man continues to occupy your mind ever since you arrived. I just wanted to know if he was worth everything that happened in the past few days."

Ariya smiled. "Every moment, Cidra. Every moment."

* * * *

Distant bells chimed nearby. Jace pushed away from the window and followed the sound down the hall and to his bedroom. The sweet smell of flowers and fresh grass filled the area, beckoning him forward. As he reached his bedroom door, Ariya stepped out and looked up at him. Every one of his senses came alive as he rushed to her. He didn't waste a second before pulling her in for a deep kiss.

Thin, translucent wings fluttered behind her as she melted in his arms. The sweet pounding of her heart echoed in his mind.

"Oh, Jace. I missed you."

"As I have you as well. I got worried when you weren't here."

Ariya bit her lip. "I know. I'm sorry. I didn't want to leave you, but I wanted to help Julian." She leaned against his chest, holding onto him as he held her. "Blakedon attacked the House with his Rens. The Patriarchs took the home to safety before it attracted too much attention."

"Is everyone okay? Where's Julian?"

She nodded. "Everyone is fine. Except Blakedon. Avery killed him."

Jace leaned back, his mouth open as he ran a hand through his wavy, brown hair. A soft curse escaped his lips. "We gotta get out of here now."

He grabbed her hand and started toward the door when she stopped him.

"Jace, they landed in the Avondale desert. They are safe for now. I doubt they'll stay there for long, though."

"If we hurry we can catch up to them." He ran his fingers along her cheek, caressing her as he gazed into her dark eyes. "Don't ever frighten me like that again, Ariya. I don't know what would happen if I lost you. _Gràdh mo chrìdh._ "

Love of my heart.

A knock at the door drew their attention to the living room. Jace gripped Ariya's waist holding her close to him. "Must be one of the neighbors. Everyone's been cooped up here for hours while the city's been locked down."

"Jace, open up! It's Gael!"

Jace looked at Ariya with widened eyes before he shrugged. "On second thought." Locking his fingers with hers, he led her to the door and opened it with his free hand.

Gael stood on the other side, leaning with one arm propped against the doorway. "The houses have moved out of Phoenix. Daoine didn't think it was safe to stay here with all the commotion." He stepped inside and waited for Jace to close the door behind him before he spoke again. "My car is downstairs ready to take you both."

"Wait, where?" Ariya looked from Jace then to Gael. "Where is the house moving?"

Gael smiled. "Los Angeles, California. Summer's coming and we'd all die in the heat if we stayed here. Might as well bask in the beach and sun." He looked at Jace. "Well, some of us anyway."

Jace scoffed and waved his hand. "Right. Hey, what happened to Avery?"

Gael looked at Ariya and then at Jace. "He's gone. Slipped away before any of us could figure out where he was headed."

Ariya frowned and leaned into Jace. "I'll explain everything."

"Preferably, on the way," Gael said. "You should probably grab everything you can because we don't have much time."

Jace wasted no time before stepping away to grab some items.

"What do the mortals know?" Ariya asked, turning to Gael.

"They know there is definitely some extraordinary activity here in the valley of the sun. As far as I am aware, no one saw any Shapeshifters or Nightwalkers."

"They shouldn't as long as we weren't hungry," Jace said with a gleam in his eye. He carried two full bags in each hand which he placed on the couch.

"Is that everything?" Gael nodded toward the bags.

"Almost! Just a few more." Jace raced back to the bedroom with Ariya on his heels.

"Hey, you two don't take too long!" Gael yelled behind them.

Ariya closed the door slightly as she watched Jace stuff more of his clothes into an open bag on the bed. He gently took his sword off the wall and gathered the small artifacts from his dresser which he slipped into the smaller pockets. "You may want to grab some of the clothes. I don't know how long we'll be on the road. Unless Gael offers to fly us there."

Ariya chuckled and went to him. She stayed behind him, wrapping her arms around him before resting her head on his back. In response, he leaned back into her. A quiet sigh escaped his lips.

"What is it?" she asked.

"A lot happened in this apartment. A lot of memories made."

Ariya stepped around to face him. "That doesn't mean we can't form new memories. After all, we have our whole lives ahead of us, right?"

He smiled. "Can't argue with that." Kissing her deeply, he held her close in a tight embrace. "Oh, before I forget."

Jace reached into his pocket and pulled out the two rings displayed on his open palm.

Ariya's face lit up the moment she saw them. "Jace..." she breathed.

"I've been waiting for the right time to return this to its rightful owner." He took her ring and grabbed her hand. Gently he slid the ring onto her thin ring finger and kissed it. "And this is exactly where it belongs."

Ariya grabbed the other ring and placed it on Jace's finger. She followed the gesture with a long, passionate kiss on his lips.

Right then and there, Jace welcomed whatever came in the future. It didn't matter where they ended up as long as he had Ariya by his side and the Ashen Twilight House to call their home.

## Note from the Author

The Ashen Twilight series along with the Cimmerian Series has been my pride and joy. These were some of the books that started the path to living my dream as an author. I've received some of the most wonderful letters from readers out there regarding the series, and I thank each and every one of you. Thanks also for rejoining me on this journey if you've read the previous editions and a huge thank you to the newcomers who are just checking out the series.

Keep an eye out for Within the Shadows of Mortals, Inheritance of Ashes and Dark Days Past returning and coming soon in the next few weeks. I know it's been a long journey to the conclusion of this series. I really appreciate your awesome patience in hanging with me until the end. Hope you enjoy Jace and Ariya's story as well as the Ashen Twilight Houses.

There's more to come!
Within the Shadows of Mortals

### (Book 2 in the Ashen Twilight Series)

_Indio_ – _A City Outside of California and Arizona - Present Day_

Adric Lieber pulled up to the gas station and exhaled. It was nearing midnight. He couldn't believe how high gas prices had risen since they left Phoenix hours ago. Maybe they crossed some kind of weird portal of rising prices somewhere back on the road.

He stretched out his long legs and wiggled his toes to wake them up. The extensive driving time was tough but necessary since he wanted to catch up with the Houses as soon as possible. San Diego was hours away, but his limbs—and not to mention his stomach—needed some attention right now.

He turned to his wife, Petra, fast asleep on the passenger side. Man, did she look as beautiful as the day they wed. Her expression was soft under the moonlight's glow. Her hands cradled her swollen stomach, protecting their child within. He placed his hand over her womb, feeling the slight kick underneath his palm. Soon they'd have another addition to their family. One they had been planning for months now with much excitement. He thought about all the baby items passed down from friends and family throughout the years. All of the items were packed in the car, practically reaching the roof. There was so much to plan for in what seemed like such a little time. Would they even be ready when the time came?

Adric leaned down to kiss her belly. In response, she moaned and shifted to a new comfortable position. When her head turned toward him, he took the chance to steal a gentle kiss.

Petra blinked a few times to wake up. "Are we there already?" Her voice was husky and deep from sleep.

Dark gray eyes sparkled back at him and her pretty bronze complexion glowed. Must be what they say about pregnancy affecting a woman. He didn't know if it was possible for his heart to swell even more than it already did.

Adric gently rubbed her stomach. "Not yet. I'm going to get us some gas and then we'll be back on the road in no time. You feel like stretching your legs?"

Petra yawned and stretched her limbs out. "No, this is good. I'll probably stay here and guard the car for you." She chuckled softly and continued to caress her tummy.

"All right. I'll try not to be long." Adric kicked the door open and stepped out. "Can I get you anything while I'm inside?"

She pursed her lips. "Mmm. Maybe some of those crunchy onion things and a pint of Cookies and Cream?"

"Yecch. Not together I hope!"

Petra laughed. "Hey, I only dipped one time!"

"Uh huh. If I can't use that excuse, neither can you." He bent down to kiss her tummy. "Lock the car doors, okay? I won't be long."

"I love you."

"Love you back." He winked at her before closing the door behind him.

The night air was mild for this time of year in the desert. Adric was thankful. He already had more than enough of the harsh summer heat. Hopefully, California offered more mild temperatures even as they ventured into fall and winter. A new location and weather to match. Perfect time to start fresh.

He cut across the row of gasoline pumps., nodding politely to a tall man in a plaid shirt as he walked by. Inside the pay center, there was only a handful of people standing in line. His eye caught sight of the rows of brightly colored bags of chips. Right away he spotted the bright yellow bag his wife wanted. Hmm, might as well grab a few for himself while he's here. Who knows what the road would be like up ahead and how long it would take to reach their destination. To his surprise, the line was already thinning out pretty quickly by the time he got to the freezer.

While opening the side door, Adric held it open with his foot and reached for a cold soda with his free hand.

"I tell you, I never did see one until that day," a male voice near the cash register said loudly. "That eclipse was either a blessing or a curse of an invasion from outer space or something."

Adric carried his items to the register where the cashier spoke to an older customer on the other side of the counter.

"Come on, that was just a crazy weather mix up thing," the cashier said as he rung up the merchandise. "Some clouds or that global warming crap they're trying to sell us."

"No, no. The news reports said there were no clouds in the sky and no moon to block the sun. I tell you, something was wrong and I saw one of them dog things walking around that very same day."

Adric's body tensed upon hearing the man. _Dog things?_

"Right, pops." The chime of the cash register sounded throughout the front of the store. "Here, keep the change."

"You just wait and see when they attack us all. Eating our flesh and drinking our blood. You need to get yourself some silver to kill them. Or else you'll be sorry you didn't come prepared."

Adric swallowed and tried to remain undeterred by the man's confession. Had he really seen the Lycans?

The cashier smiled and waved as the older man left. "You have a good one now."

Adric chuckled and slid his items across the counter.

The cashier's name was etched in faded white on the left side of his chest: Chanson. He scoffed and pointed his thumb toward the door as he looked at Adric. "Can you believe some people?"

"Everyone's been crazy since that eclipse," Adric replied with a shrug. "I guess anything out of the ordinary will put people into a frenzy."

Chanson worked quickly to scan each item and place them in a flimsy plastic bag. "I mean, I believe in the paranormal. No doubt. But why get all kinds of crazy when it's nothing you can control? Once a creature puts its hands on me, I'll take care of it but until then...live and let live, man."

Adric's lips twisted upward in a grin. "I hear that." He checked the final total on the cash register and dipped into his pocket to retrieve his wallet. "I wish more folks thought like you. Things would be much more peaceful."

"Right?"

Adric grabbed a stack of bills and handed it over. "That should be it. Plus, I'll take forty on pump three."

Chanson held up the money. "This should be more than enough to cover it."

"Keep the change." Adric stuffed his wallet back in his pocket and scooped up the plastic bag.

"Thanks, man. You take it easy out there."

Once he stepped out into the night air, Adric's senses blared to life as if ice was thrown on his bare skin. There were no cars at the pumps or in the parking lot, except for his own vehicle sitting at the far end. All the lights had been broken, casting a shadow of darkness around the gas station.

Something was wrong. He could smell it. A sense of urgency threatened to break free as he rushed to the car. "Petra, open the..."

Then he saw it. A large hole shattered the passenger window near his wife's head. Blood splattered across the windshield cracked with webs of the fractured glass. She laid still, her hand still cradling her stomach and her face turned away from him.

Adric's body froze with a crippling emotion that nearly sent him to his knees. He lost all feeling in his arms as the plastic bag fell out of his grip and crashed to the ground. He saw only red as a blood filled rage ignited his body and threatened to release the beast that he carefully held within. Before he could take another step, a shot rang out from the darkness, and then another followed by more in succession after that. He felt each and every bullet piercing his skin like knives stabbing through rough tissue. His knees buckled and gave out under him.

Petra...He wanted to go to her. To hold her just one last time before it all slipped away. He wanted to run his hand over her stomach that held....no. That _once_ held their child. Was it a boy or a girl? What kind of life would it have lead if...if...

He couldn't bring himself to believe it. The child he had created with his lifemate and the love of his life had both been taken from him. What kind of monster would do such a thing?

Thin slivers of pain shot throughout his body like blades of poison seeping in his veins. The stench of burnt flesh— _his flesh_ —overtook his nostrils. His insides felt like they were melting as if a substance like...silver. These were silver bullets!

The world turned sideways as Adric fell limp to the ground with a crash. The pint of ice cream rolled by. Cookies and cream. His wife's favorite since he took her out on the pier on Fisherman's Wharf years ago. It reminded her of home, just like she had reminded him of home.

His breathing grew labored as he tried to hold on.

The sound of boots crunching behind him echoed in his ears. Dark black boots stepped into his view, but he couldn't move to see the face. More shots rang out in his ear as he was hit more times at close range. He felt his body relax as the burning pain overtook him. Slowly, he closed his eyes and surrendered to the hands of death.

***

Cassius peered up into the rearview mirror. The road was barely visible except for a few red lights ahead, sparse white lights reflected behind them, and the occasional landscape revealed by the streetlights. His thin shoulders tensed. _Take it easy man. They're all right. Probably just got held up a bit back there._

"What is it?" He nearly jumped through the roof hearing his mate's voice in the passenger seat next to him.

"Jeez, Vala," he murmured. "Scare the crap out of me why don't you?"

Vala turned to look over her shoulder, shaking her long, dark mane away from her view. "You were thinking the same thing I was. Where are they?"

"I don't know. I've been waiting for them to catch up for the past few minutes." Cassius sighed. "Something's wrong."

"Turn around up ahead and go back to the gas station."

Tires skidded on the crunching gravel below as he turned around and headed back into the darkness. The shiny beacon of light ahead was his destination. From here, he could already tell Adric and Petra's car hadn't moved from their spot. A sense of uneasiness overcame him when he focused his vision. A group of men in black shirts and pants stood outside of the pay market carrying a large body of fur. Adric.

Vala gasped and sat up right away.

"Call Daoine," Cassius said parking a few feet away. "Let him know what's going on. Wait a few minutes and if I'm not back..." He stopped as he felt her hand on his shoulder. Turning toward her, he saw the determined expression in her dark mahogany eyes. He didn't want to finish that sentence, but they needed a plan just in case he didn't make it out. Whatever went on here, he had to get to the bottom of it.

He kissed her once more before stepping out of the car. He could smell them from here. A pungent scent of decay, fear and death. Hate. These punks were definitely human. It was about time they were taught not to mess with a member of the House. An attack on one brings the wrath of all members in retaliation. He hoped nothing unfortunate became of Adric...or worse, Petra.

Cassius was there to celebrate when his friend announced Petra's pregnancy. A new addition to the pack. Adric was already buying gifts for their child the moment he heard Petra was expecting. He doted on his wife and made sure to protect her wherever she went, careful to keep her from changing into her true form until the baby was born. Man, was he careful. If they had done something to Petra...

Cassius felt his eyes heat with a glow. His teeth elongated into fangs and his fingernails grew at his sides as he closed the distance between him and the killers. He hissed, alerting them to his presence...and a warning. They watched him closely, never moving their bodies or expressions which continued to stay blank. Good. They would cooperate and make this kill as quick and easy as possible.

Cassius opened his mouth to release a roar when a fiery arrow pierced the blackness, heading straight for him. He dove out of the way and landed on his hands and knees. In seconds, he on his feet again racing toward them.

A flash of light flooded him from all sides. The sound of heat sizzling skin erupted before he felt his skin burning as if the sun itself had decided to kick the moon out of the sky and take its place. Another fiery arrow soared straight toward him. The fire penetrated his skin, sliding into blood, bone, and muscle with a force that shot him backward into a nearby tree and impaling him to the wood. He tried to break away despite the fact that every movement shot pain throughout his body.

Pitch black darkness surrounded him and he couldn't see the face of the shadowy silhouette that approached him. He tried to tap into his night vision, but all he saw were dark silhouettes against a dim background. The figure before him held up a crossbow with another flaming arrow lined up for another shot. His attacker was tall, rather lanky and bald from the looks of his silhouette. Cassius refused to back down. If these punks want to take him down, he'll go down fighting and taking out as many of them as he could.

"Looks like you missed the sunlight, bloodsucker." The figure's voice was deep and raspy. "Allow me to oblige you."

Something clicked and the figure raised a bright light into his face. Cassius screamed, a mixture of a hiss and a primal growl as he felt the pain of his skin crackling like burnt meat under the light. The figure chuckled wildly as he shined the beam all over Cassius, who shut his eyes close in defense. Another light appeared next to him. And then another. Slowly, Cassius felt his life slipping away.

Vala, my love. If you could hear me, go! Find the Ashen Twilight House and tell them what happened!

Cassius breathed heavily and opened his eyes to see a large bird in the sky behind them. Its wings flapped wildly, cutting through the air as it soared into the night air.

"Behind you guys!" one of the men near the pumps yelled.

They turned just was Vala swooped down, her large beak reaching for them as she squawked loudly.

"Get it!"

A large arrow with a rope attached to it sailed into the air and pierced her breast with a sickening _thhppp_ sound. Vala's body fell freely down toward the empty pavement. Cassius pushed away from the trunk, propelling his body forward enough to kick away the three men in front of him. With his scarred hand, he reached to his middle and pulled out the fiery arrow with a loud yowl on his lips. Gritting his teeth, he tossed it away and headed straight for them.

"Vala!"

One of the men pulled on the rope, dragging Vala toward the group. He lunged toward her only to be stopped by a large body with massive arms reaching for him.

Sirens broke out in the distance as Cassius flipped over his attacker in seconds. He dove down, his fangs ready to pierce the skin belonging to the man whose life he was ready to take to the grave and beyond. The warm, thick flesh tasted bitter when he dug his fangs into the man's neck. Feeling the life slowly drain from the man made the feed that much sweeter as he felt his power grow. Cassius then grabbed the man's head and twisted, snapping his neck in seconds. He leaped over the dead body as it fell to the ground with a loud thud. With one slash across the second man's face and throat, he turned to the third and slashed again.

Slowly his skin regenerated with their blood filling him as he stormed toward the pumps where Vala was dragged. The other group raised their weapons toward her and he felt his adrenaline shoot beyond the skies. He raced toward them, his hands raised as he embedded his nails into the closest one's back. He raised his arm, tearing through skin and bone with ease. The sirens grew louder and he hoped the rest of the caravan behind them had gotten out of dodge before the bloodbath began. More men dressed in black emerged from the darkness, closing in on him. Their weapons were poised and ready to fire.

"Freeze!" Behind him, an array of police cars stopped near the gas station entrance and drew their guns. "Hands up in the air! Every one of you!"

Cassius turned to the blood splattered passenger window where Petra's body rested in death's warm embrace. Her body was still and he could see the gunshot wound from here. His hands formed into fists. Not a few feet away Adric laid on the ground in his full Lycan form. His body was filled with smoking bullets that had pierced his thick skin. _The mortal beasts won't get away with this massacre. I promise you that, Adric._

"Everybody get down on the ground. Now!"

The cops held their weapons poised on Cassius, watching and waiting...perhaps even hoping for him to move. He wouldn't give them the satisfaction. Not until the last moment.

He looked down at Vala's still frame. Her dark eyes watched him with a slight curve of her brow. She didn't have to speak for him to know she was calling out to him. Her heart beat raced and Cassius mentally reached out to her. _Be strong, my love. We're going to get out of here._

"On the ground! Don't make me tell you again!"

_Transform_.

She blinked, understanding the words transmitted from his mind to hers.

"Now!" Cassius yelled.

In an instant she disappeared. The arrow barely hit the ground before she changed from a hawk to a large eagle, all within the blink of an eye.

Cassius moved fast. To mortals, he would only be a blur. He ran and grabbed the fiery arrows on the ground before dashing over to grab the dripping gas pump from its cradle. With a quick flick of his wrist, he poured the gas on Adric's car and the fallen Lycan's body before tossing the burning arrow onto the fluid drenched ground.

"No!" Whoever had yelled the word was soon drowned out by the explosion of the car.

Vala swooped overhead through the flames and Cassius jumped up to grab her open claws as she swerved up to gain more altitude. An array of bullets, arrows and firearms broke into the sky as they descended upward while the firestorm raged across the gas station down below.

# I

# Victim of Solace

### Chapter 1

"Tell me what your world is like."

Ariya gazed at the moonlight streaming through the wide window of her bedroom. It had been much too long since this serene calm washed over her. Coming home had been a last minute decision. Now that they had arrived, she was glad Jace made the suggestion to come here.

Thankfully they had arrived under the dark veil of the night, for Jace's skin couldn't take the harsh sun's rays. Strange how just a few months ago she didn't have to worry about such things. After meeting the members of the Ashen Twilight House, so many things her life had taken a drastic turn...

Now her life had taken another dramatic turn since she gave her heart to Jace Archane, Regent in the House of Blood.

"You're here," she said, smiling at him. "You can see it."

Jace's cold touch sent shivers throughout her body. His hand cradled her chin, gently stroking it with his thumb. "I want to hear it from you," he said, turning her to face him. She loved how he looked, watching her from the soft ivory folds of her bed sheets. He was beautiful. Perhaps the most striking creature she had ever laid eyes on.

Dark, loose strands of wavy shoulder length hair fell over his smooth pale face. He was in his early twenties at the time of his change; an age he would forever remain in as mortals left behind their legacy of ashes. He'd always have his charming boyish face with cupid's bow lips, bright blue eyes, and a strong, sharp nose.

Now she had his undivided attention. His handsome expression was curious, waiting with the question of his words. His muscled chest was bare under the dark red shirt that lay open over the rise and fall of his breathing.

"Soft, damp green hills fill every part of our lands with cool springs and large bodies of water in between."

Jace chuckled. "Sounds like Scotland."

Ariya nodded. "It does have its similarities to your home. Like with the hunters, we assisted when we ventured to Dahomey in the mortal realm. Different worlds yet so much alike." She wrinkled her forehead in thought. "It was there I noticed that the men were bred to be warriors since the dawn of humans. Here the warriors, my guard, are women. We still have a specialized group composed of men who stay in the outskirts of our world. But the tradition has always been to keep female guards for the castle."

"Hmm, well the House of Lycan is the only house structured similarly."

"But not bred. They're born with their strength."

Jace nodded. "You have a point there. Do all Aziza girls grow up to be in the guard?"

Ariya shrugged. "Some do if they wish it." She giggled and poked Jace in the chest. "Anyway, I was describing the landscape for you. The days are longer here than in the mortal realm. We can bring the rain whenever the crops need it. And we celebrate every aspect of life's changes from life itself to life passing on, to birth, to the changes of the season and to betrothals followed by wedded unions."

Her fingers traced the hard line of his chest as she spoke.

"And what of your betrothal?" Jace caught her finger and looked up at her.

Ariya looked down at her captured finger, feeling her face heat at the question. "What of it?"

"You aren't already betrothed to some muscle-bound warrior who will try to fight me for your hand, are you?"

She laughed, shaking her head. "No, nothing like that."

"Good because I'd be ready to fight anyone to keep you by my side." He ran his fingertips lightly along the side of her arm. "I mean it."

She shifted slightly at his words. No man had ever said the things he said to her. She liked that Jace was possessive and protective of her.

"Good," he grinned. "I like being possessive and protective of you."

Smacking his arm, she pursed her lips. "Are you ever going to stop doing that?"

Jace laughed. "Never. It's too much fun." He leaned in to kiss her deeply.

Shivers of pleasure claimed her body and she gently stroked his cheek, leaning into the kiss. This felt so good. Too good. If only she could extend this moment for as long as she wanted...

Breaking the kiss, she took a slow exhale. "It's just that...with you. I can lay down all the responsibilities and the burdens of my station and just...be."

"Nothing wrong with that."

"No?" She winced slightly as she turned to sit on the edge of the bed. Why did that come out as more of a question than a statement? "I mean...although I am not betrothed, it has been expected of me to take a mate. Being Queen, I need a husband and fellow ruler. It's the Aziza way for as long and longer than mortals have lived."

"What if you were to take one, then? What if an outsider wanted to stay here and rule with you?"

His words made her stood up. What if...

She liked the idea of Jace being here with here. Ruling aside one another, loving one another, and just enjoying the calm life that they could build together. But it couldn't be.

"I—I don't know." She looked away. "I don't think it's ever happened before. For a while, it was just us and the mortals. Everything else was a myth that only lived in books." She wanted to say more. Possibly speculate on what it would mean for a Nightwalker to live within the lands, but she couldn't go on. They were enjoying each other too much for it to be ruined by what they couldn't have. "Why do you ask?"

Jace turned away, staring ahead into space as he spoke. A crease formed in the middle of his forehead and his lips thinned into a straight line as he stayed silent those next few moments. Finally, he turned to her. His stern, focused gaze melted away with a smile. "Curiosity is all."

Ariya raised an eyebrow. "And that's why you blocked your thoughts from me?"

"Privacy, my love," Jace said, grinning. Traces of his Scottish accent filtered through his words. She noticed it tended to mix with others, mostly American. Probably due to America being his home for the past few decades.

"You would miss your home if you stayed here," Ariya said.

Jace idly ran his hand along her arm. "I already miss it. I often wonder what my kids are thinking, even at this very moment. Or my faculty bosses. Do they think I died in the chaos? Or just up and left?" He shook his head. "Not sure which I think is worse."

"I bet you miss teaching since it seemed like you loved it so much."

"I do."

Jace had appeared so aloof and overconfident when she had first met him. A wall of protection from the lifetime of pain he had endured. As she got closer to him, the shell that he had tried so hard to keep around himself melted away. Now she couldn't bare being anywhere but near him.

"Enough of that now," Jace said smiling up at her. He slipped his arm around her waist and pulled her close. "I think we're both in need of a break once in awhile." His voice grew softer, huskier as he drew near. She anticipated the touch of his lips against hers, the tingling feeling that ran all over her senses. Jace had been the only man to touch her so intimately. Ever since that first time, she couldn't get enough of him.

Even now, Ariya's stomach fluttered as Jace's lips brushed hers. Her eyes closed and only touches remained to overtake her senses. Jace's strong yet gentle hand moved up to her shoulder, the warmth of his tongue and mouth sent bolts of pleasure, making her heart beat faster.

How much her life had changed since she fell in love with this dark figure. The single act of being in his presence transformed into a magical experience the moment her heart became his. No more was he just a man or a Nightwalker she felt drawn to. He was hers, an extension of herself in a way that had broken the barrier of personal space to become a part of her that she was free to touch and love anytime she pleased.

The moonlight in the dark sky had shifted, bathing them in darkness while the room basked in light.

"Taste me," Ariya said, feeling Jace move to her neck. His grip on her froze.

Morning would be upon them soon, and it'd be awhile before she could feel Jace again. For as the sunlight drew upon the lands, the rise and fall of his chest would cease, his breath would be frozen and death would claim his body.

"You want me to feed upon you, Ariya?" His breath brushed against her neck as she spoke, his hand caressing the dark curves of her body.

Ariya arched her head to look at him through the sparse of amounts of light that pierced the shadows in the room. She could already see the bright white shine of his elongated fangs peeking out from between his parted lips. The sight made her heart race, her breath shallow, and her wings flutter slightly against her back.

"Yes Jace," she breathed.

His masculine grip slid down to her hips urging her legs to wrap around his and straddle him.

Jace immediately reached for the soft gossamer sleeve of her dress. He pulled them down with a controlled urgency that sent her heart racing further. Careful of her wings, he gingerly opened the dress down the front to reveal her smooth honey brown, full breasts.

Ariya breathed in sharply, feeling the brush of his sharp fangs against her soft tender chest.

"I, Jacinus Aurelius Archane, now take you Ariya to be my wife." His hand slipped behind her back, brushing against her wings before resting between her shoulder blades. "In the presence of God and before the Aziza realm and the mortal world, I promise to be a loving, faithful, loyal lifemate to you. For as long as we both shall live."

Ariya grinned, feeling his lips melt into a smile once he leaned to kiss her.

"Both technically and figuratively," Jace added.

Ariya brushed her fingers through his hair, peering down at him. "I, Ariya, now take you Jacinus Aurelius Archane to be my beloved lifemate," she spoke softly against the crown of his head, cradling him to her chest. "In the presence of Mawu-Lisa and before the Aziza realm and the mortal realm. I promise to be a loving, faithful and loyal mate, wife and friend to you, for as long as we both shall live."

She felt his hand grab hers and raise it up. Through the darkness, the bright glow of the moonlight shined across her silver ring. The Claddagh ring he had called it. The same piece of jewelry that had belonged to his mother who handed it down to him to give to his own beloved. Ariya remembered the tale he shared when he first placed it on her finger and the promise he made to give it to her at the right time.

_When worn as a ring it's supposed to symbolize friendship and love_ , he had told her. Now she wore it on the ring finger of her right hand with the heart facing her. The different ways to wear it had different meanings and for the life of her, Ariya couldn't remember which was which right now.

Just as she thought this, Jace looked down at her finger and kissed it before removing it from her finger. He then grabbed her left-hand ring finger and slipped the ring on, making sure the heart clutched between the hands and crown faced him.

"Thy beauty and brightness/And lightness is going/Under the bonnie brown waves of thy hair/Thy lips red and luscious/And blushes bright glowing/Smote me with love and sweetest despair." Jace stared deeply into her eyes as he recited the poem. He switched his own ring from one hand to the other.

Ariya wrapped her hands around his, stopping him midway. She took his ring and placed it on his finger with the heart facing her.

A quiet clink of the metal sounded between them as Jace covered her hands with his own. "Mo ghaol ort," he said.

I love you.

*

Jace pulled her to him and kissed her deeply, turning her around so that she lay under him. She was so beautiful, he couldn't believe that she belonged to him. He had carried their rings through the centuries, never believing to find the one he would give it to. He shared his bed and his body with so many but never before did anyone have his heart as Ariya did now.

Breathing in the soft scent of her, he dove down into the warmth of her hair covering her neck. Brushing aside her thick, dark curls, he kissed her neck and shoulder, gently running his tongue along her soft skin. He wanted her. He wanted them to give in to each other after sharing vows and seal their union now and forever.

Sitting up, Jace peeled away his shirt and let it fall to the floor. He unbuttoned his trousers and grabbed them with his boxers before sliding them down his body. At the moment, he was fully Nightwalker, but that would change quite soon.

Climbing back on the bed, he leaned down into her soft body, feeling alive as she wrapped her legs around his waist.

"Take me, Jace," Ariya breathed beneath him.

Lifting his lips, he felt the anticipation grow within her. The rise and fall of her heaving chest and beautiful bare breasts called out to him. The quickened pumping her blood beneath the softness of her skin. The way her dark eyes called out to have him. Every inch of her called his name. Oh, he was more than ready to oblige her body.

He leaned down with a hiss and dug his teeth into her neck, reveling in the strained moan she gave. He hadn't fed from her since that night he changed her and now he was more than careful to go too far.

Still, he drank, consuming her essence and her life, he reveled in the way her blood felt meshing into his. _From now until forever..._

His body came alive with the fast pumping of his heart and blood. His breathing deepened as he drank, clutching her hair in his grasp. He even felt his erection spring to life with the need to be deep inside of her.

Ariya.

Jace wasted no time as he ran his hand down her thigh, urging himself toward her warm center. In moments, he was inside of her, losing himself in the comfort and feel of her. He moved his hips within her, igniting a passion of his own that urged him to thrust deeper and faster. Ariya moaned again under him, moving her body to meet his as she held onto him, breathing his name over and over again.

He continued drinking from her, taking her blood and her body as his own that he continued to claim over and over again.

Faster his hips moved, sparking the fire of an oncoming explosion he wanted to make last forever. But his body wasn't his own as he reached the point of no return. He broke away from her neck, groaning as the explosion of pleasure claimed his body, thrusting his hips faster and deeper until he couldn't bare it any longer.

Ariya's legs clutched him, holding him inside of her as she wrapped her arms around him. Her breathing was heavy and strained, like a cry.

Looking down he saw tears in her eyes as she looked at him. Before he could question her, she reached up to brush away the last remnants of her blood that stained his lips. Then she pulled him down in a soft kiss that grew more passionate. He refused to move, enjoying the feel of her enclosed around him. He would stay here forever if he could. For now, he would be happy to make this moment last as long as he had a breath left in him.

### Chapter 2

"My Queen!" A stifled knock echoed in the deepest part of Ariya's mind, rousing her out of her sleep. It took her a moment to focus in the darkness of the night. The absence of the moon high in the dark sky told her it was still late at night, but not quite morning. A cold shiver made her realize she had forgotten to dress before falling asleep after they had made love. Jace stirred next to her. A soft moan fell from his lips and the arm that held her tightened around her body. He must still be in a human-like sleep. Otherwise, he would be dead to the world around him.

"What is it?" he said, confirming her thoughts with the drowsy, huskiness of his words.

"My Queen! You must come quickly!"

It was Rasia on the other side. One of her handmaidens. Did she hear them earlier? "I'll be right there," Ariya answered. She swung her legs to the floor and froze when she felt Jace's cold hand wrap around hers.

"Do you have to go?" he asked.

She nodded. "I will see what she wants. I promise to return as soon as I can." She leaned down and kissed him softly, caressing his chin. "I give my word."

Ariya jumped to her feet and immediately slipped into her dress. Then she retrieved her robe hanging near the door.

"Before morning?"

"I'll try."

Ariya made sure to crack the door enough to slip through it before closing it behind her. "Rasia, what is it?"

"Tera, Dara and Komi's baby, is rooting."

Ariya felt her senses blaring to immediate alertness. Her mind raced and she quickly pulled herself together. "All right. Run back to their home and tell them I'm on my way. I'll grab my cloak."

"Right away." Rasia turned to rush off.

Ariya slipped back into her room, slipping off her night robe and replacing it with the cloak that hung near the door.

"Rooting?" Jace asked.

Wrapping the cloak around her shoulders, she looked over at Jace leaning on his elbow. In the blink of an eye, he appeared before her, cupping his hand over her cheek. "I don't know what that means, but I can tell from your expression it's serious."

"Yes. An Aziza child of about three years old begins growing wings. It's a painful and frightening process that needs the support of the community and the Queen near."

"Do you want me to do anything?"

She squeezed his hand and smiled. "No, my love," she said. "I appreciate you asking, but it is best if you stay here. It's almost morning. I shouldn't be too long."

With a kiss on his hands, Ariya turned away from Jace and started to the hall. She raced down the stairs as her mind ran over the steps she would take to help little Tera. She ran over the ingredients in her mind: passion flower for relaxing the muscles; peppermint leaf for sleep and calm, visionary dreams; valerian root for the calming process; and lavender flowers.

The little girl's screams reached the door by the time Ariya had grabbed the ingredients and arrived at the forest home. Much of the surrounding village had already caught word of Tera's situation, stayed outside the doors to hear any word of the progress.

Ariya followed Komi and Dara to the back of the house where their daughter's room sat under the moonlight. Tera cradled her body in a fetal position as she lay on the table in the middle of her bedroom. Her back was to Ariya as she entered the room and already two thin lines between her shoulder blades began to protrude through the skin. The girl screamed in pain.

Ariya removed her cloak and turned to the mother, Dara. "Have you done anything to sedate the breakage?"

The woman shook her head, her short, dark hair waving. "No," she whimpered. "We called for you as soon as it started. We didn't believe it would happen so soon. It was to happen many days later."

"We will take care of her now. Get me some allspice extract. Make sure you crush the herbs and mix it with lavender. We'll try to soften the process before it gets any further."

Ariya circled around the table to face the little girl. Thick, hot tears stained her red eyes which she quickly shut as soon as Ariya faced her.

"It's okay, little one," Ariya said, taking the little girl's hands to soothe her. "I am here to help."

The girl slowly opened her eyes to gaze at Ariya. She felt the little girl ease slightly before she cried out in pain. Every moment would feel like a lifetime. Ariya knew this feeling as she remembered her own rooting well. She lifted her hands and gently ran them over the girl, calling up a warm, comforting energy to calm the girl as best as she could. The herbs would certainly do better to work through the girl's body, using her own system for the healing process, but this would do for now.

Dara and Rasia rushed in with the crushed herbs and flowers Some were not ripened and others were well developed into the spring season. The scent of lavender and spicy pimento filled the air as the women brought Ariya the lightly oiled mixture.

"Can you make it stop!" the girl said through shaky words. "Please!"

Ariya's heart ached at the pleading girl's cry. "I will certainly do my best. I need you to focus now, Tera. You'll feel your skin warm, but it'll dull the pain along with the power I have given you. Try to hold still."

The thin lines had expanded to the size of branches about a half an inch thick. Ariya immediately felt the cool, yet warm pulse of the herbs on her fingers when she scooped up a small amount. She quickly slathered the ointment over the girl's tightened skin, sending shots of her power in her hands to hasten the treatment. Although the allspice was from the local Aziza realm fruit trees, it still resembled a combination of cloves, juniper berries, cinnamon, and pepper.

Tera's held her eyes closed as she hugged herself tightly. She cried out as her honeyed skin burned a shade of red where her wings stemmed. The skin tightened and grew like liquid burgeoning under a tight sheet. The skin soon broke, allowing a slim, wet membrane of skin to burst out from beneath the flesh.

Ariya leaned back as she watched the wings stretch and fold out against the girl's back. Tera calmed and fell limp on the table. Her mother, Dara, rushed over with a wet towel she wrapped around her daughter. Looking up, her dark oval eyes broke into tears as she smiled at Ariya.

"Thank you, my Queen," she said. "This is a joyous day."

Ariya nodded. "Indeed it is. In the coming hours, we will hold a celebration for Tera's dawn of age. Soon she'll be like the other little ones trying to fly."

Dara laughed. "I'm sure. First she will have to get used to having these wings."

***

When Ariya stepped out of the forest home, she announced Tera's condition to the rest of the village. Tera's father, Komi was eager to race back home and greet his daughter. The man reminded her of her own father and how proud he was that she, the last and youngest of his daughters, came into her own wings.

Cheers and music broke out and a celebration was called to commence later in the day. Looking up, she saw the sun breaking over the horizon. By the time she arrived back to her bedroom, the sun's rays were already reaching into the sky...and Jace was asleep. Dead, perhaps was more like it but she refused to use such a term to describe his short sleep during the day.

She turned to the bed where Jace slept peacefully with one arm across his chest and the other draped to the side of him. It looked as if he were feeling around the area she slept, wishing she was here. The thought made her heart heavy as she removed her cloak and hung it back up on its hook.

Morning's rays would soon stream in through the terrace. She always loved waking up to the kiss of the sunlight upon her face. Jace couldn't be exposed to the same. Noticing the peaceful look upon Jace's face, she quickly jumped to her feet and rushed to close the shades. It was a good thing she remembered. One of the many things she had to keep in mind now.

Her mind wandered to the previous night and the promise they made to each other. Husband. Wife. Mate. Friend.

A tingle followed by a shiver claimed her body. Ariya wrapped her arms around her torso, feeling the cool morning air drifting into the room.

From the moment they stepped into the Aziza fairy realm, Ariya was careful to keep Jace hidden as they trekked to the castle. Thankfully there weren't Aziza guards or citizens outside. The ones that did see them had thrown curious gazes and murmurs at the outsider who came into their world. No mortal, or other immortals for that matter, ever entered the Aziza Fae realm. For the longest time, werewolves, vampires, and other shifters lived in between the pages of a book rather than reality.

There were so many things she had come to find out were not as they believed. She had a duty to inform her people of their existence. Soon. She couldn't help wondering how they would react to Jace. As a Nightwalker, he shared the traits of the fearful Asiman creatures that threatened their lands and people. How would she tell them he was her lifemate and nothing like the Asiman? He was her husband and her choice...

Their earlier conversation returned back to her along with the thoughts she had cloaked from him. As an Aziza Fae Queen, she was to not only take a mate but produce an heir. How could she do so when a Nightwalker was unable to?

The thought made her heart heavy with the idea. She didn't want to think about this now. Not after such a joyous occasion and after giving her life, love and heart to the only man she wanted to be with. Jace's blood ran through her veins at that very moment and they were connected. Now, after last night, it was official.

Ariya grabbed the bottom hem of her soft, billowy nightgown and walked back to the bed where Jace lay in peaceful rest. She bent down, placing her hand on his forehead. Cold. Once he awakened he would need to feed soon to keep going. She promised to be here when that happened.

***

The day announced its arrival not long after Ariya dozed off. She had planned to use the morning and afternoon to visit the Dreamcaster, the man believed to be the oldest of the Aziza people. He knew what the near future held. Perhaps he had a suggestion on how to introduce Jace to the Aziza people. His visions always came in dreams or symbols. Based on what the symbols meant to the one asking, the answer was always clear.

After watching the sun hang high in the sky from the comforts of her bed, Ariya finally decided to rise and prepare for the day. She took a quick bath then changed into another dress. This one was a pastel, lavender creation that floated around her body like a cloud. It was one of her favorites. She then reached for her hooded cloak and slipped it, securing the hood with a golden metal clasp across her neck. First, she would stop by her father's library to check on something that had been bothering her for the better part of the morning.

As she started on her path, Ariya remembered the dream she had of Vladislav Tepes III and Alexandru Drago. In the car on the way to the West Coast, she recalled how Jace had tensed at the mention of Drago's name. Did Jace know him or perhaps met him by way of Vlad somehow?

In passing, Jace had mentioned how the other Nightwalkers had fought Vlad. There was nothing mentioned in the history books as such, but maybe that was for the best. The Nightwalkers and other members of the House wished to remain under mortal eyes. Still the event went down in history as a great and sad battle, for it was the one where Jace had lost his father.

She didn't remember much about Vlad in the history books, other than the fact that he was the inspiration for Stoker's famous Dracula book. Strange that the famous fiction about vampires would lead to a possible connection to the real life Nightwalkers she had come in contact with. Ariya had asked Jace about the dream and despite his dodge to answer her question about whether he knew Drago or not, she noted his uncomfortable stillness. Perhaps there would be something written about Vlad's connection to the early stages of the three houses. She made a note to ask Jace about that when he woke up.

Outside she caught the attention of one of her guards and called her over. "Send word to Cidra to keep watch outside my bedroom door until my return."

She would feel safer knowing her most trusted friend and leader of the Aziza Amazon guards would watch over Jace. There was a chance that Cidra would not approve if she knew the truth about him. Still, Ariya trusted her most of all and know she would listen to reason when the time came.

The tall Aziza guard named Alleyna frowned. "Where are you going?" she asked. "He's still in there, isn't he?"

Ariya froze at the question. Had she spotted them last night when they crossed realms?

She felt Alleyna's gaze pinning her to the spot. "Did you give yourself to him, Ariya? He stayed in your room all night."

"That is not your concern, Alleyna," Ariya said, focusing her gaze on the guard. "Please relay the message to Cidra."

"Consider the message received."

Ariya turned to face her friend and guard who stood by leaning on her staff. Her most trusted friend who seemed like a sister stared right back at her. Bright, dark brown eyes stared right at her before averting her gaze. "Thank you, Alleyna. I wish to speak with the Queen alone."

The tall guard turned to look at them before she bowed her head and left.

Cidra met Ariya's gaze, immediately making her tense.

In the years they had known each other, Cidra watched over her and her sisters, growing closer to be like a sister when they had passed. The guard took her position seriously and although she had many romantic interests and offers from the men's guard, none had caught her attention yet. It was not surprising to Ariya. Cidra was gorgeous with dark, smooth mahogany skin, short close cropped tight curls of hair, full feminine lips and a cat-like brown eyes.

"You wished to see me?"

Ariya laughed as she passed her friend. "Have you began reading my mind, too? You're as bad as..." Her smile disappeared right away as she realized what she was about to say.

"As bad as...?"

For a moment, Ariya thought about confiding in her friend. They had known each other for what seemed like a lifetime and there was nothing she couldn't tell her. Well, almost nothing. "Nevermind. I have to see Runin. Please do not let anyone pass through my bedroom doors doors. Especially when night falls."

"Ariya, if I may speak," Cidra said taking Ariya's arm as she softened her voice. "I don't think it was wise bringing him here. He walks during the night and disappears during the day. I know there are many others like him and I was grateful to help them with the eclipse, but he commands so much of your attention. What kind of...man is he?"

Ariya gazed into her friend's dark eyes. "A man who saved my life more than once, Cidra. Please trust me on this. I need you to help me, not cause more obstacles."

Cidra pursed her lips together. "You have changed, Ariya. Ever since your return with him. You seem...different."

Ariya shivered slightly despite the warm day. She _was_ different. Since she drank from Jace, her senses were heightened. Her powers were stronger and she knew her physical characteristics were more...magnetic.

She ran her tongue along the slightly elongated fangs that had grown since that fateful night. Not quite the size of a Nightwalker's but still more prominent than a Fae's normal teeth. She had almost forgotten about them until now.

"Please, Cidra. Do as I ask." Ariya's voice was low yet firm. Perhaps one day she would confide in her friend. Right now she needed to get away on her own and figure out what they would do in the coming days.

The young guard finally nodded slowly. "I will get a few guards to stand watch."

"No. Only you." Ariya reached back to pull her hood over her head to block out the sun's rays. "I should be back before nightfall."

With that, she turned and continued along the grassy path.

***

Breaking news tonight in Indio. A fire broke out near the gas station off the 10 highway around midnight tonight. Locals say the fire started abruptly and have attributed it to a faulty, leaking gas pump that may have been ignited by the flames. Small torches were found on the grounds, but there was no sign of any foul play. More to come as we receive updates on the story.

"No sign of foul play? They should interview me." Cassius gritted his teeth and groaned gruffly. Vala sat on the bed behind him on her knees at first before resting back on her heels. She ran her hand over the open wound scarring his hard, muscular torso and gently picked out the strips of burnt wood. "You know, I can tell they were going for the old-fashioned stake in the heart bit. But I'm happier leaving that crap in the past where it belongs."

"Yeah, well it looks like that fire did the damage. Not sure what they doused it in but it's torn into your skin pretty good. You need to feed?"

He turned to look over his shoulder at her. "You offering?"

She smacked his arm and climbed off the bed. "I'm serious. We need to get you back to full health. Did you get Julian on the phone?"

He shook his head. "I tried to call the last cell number he gave me but...nothing. It doesn't even go to his voice mail."

After the attack, they escaped to the nearest motel off the highway. Vala had quickly shifted into her human form to check them in and pay the concierge while Cassius waited outside in the shadows. Thankfully, the proprietor didn't give them any trouble or ask too many questions. Now they needed to get back on their feet and find some new transportation.

"It's probably for the best," she said as she crossed into the adjoining bathroom. She tossed the bloodied rags into the bathroom sink. "We don't want any mortals tracking us." Reaching to the side, she grabbed clean, dry towel from the rack and drenched it with the running water.

"What is it?" Cassius asked from the bedroom. "You're blocking your thoughts from me."

She laughed softly to herself. That will never get old. As a Shifter Elf, she was used to thoughts being her own, but ever since getting with Cassius, a Nightwalker from the House of Blood, she had to watch herself. Very few members of the House chose mates outside of their own clans. That included Vex the Lycan. Not long ago, he had gotten with the Nightwalker Shelly. Vala still remembered the rumors about Vex, Shelly, and the Nightwalker Regent Jace. It was a tragedy how it ended but from what she understood, things had eventually smoothed themselves out.

Vala sighed. There was something about Cassius that made him so irresistible to her. After three years, their relationship just kept getting stronger and stronger.

He smiled at her when she turned to meet his gaze. "You know it, baby. Now tell me, what's up?"

Vala leaned against the bathroom sink, resting her hands on the edge of the basin. "What happened back there, Cass? It was as if they were waiting for us. They knew exactly how to hit us and where. Not to mention how Adric and...Oh my Go—" She clapped her hand over her mouth, cutting off her words. "Petra and her baby."

"I know." His hands formed into fists on his lap as he thought about the young family and, most of all, the child that never had a chance to live outside its mother's womb.

Vala had given them a handmade dreamcatcher that her grandmother had created when she was a child. It was a gift from her to Adric and Petra in preparation for the Lycan ceremony of the Beginning, a ceremony for new births. Now the ceremony would be a burial to honor their memories.

"I wanted to give them a proper burial," Cassius said. "But there was no time. They would have taken their bodies and used them study how to wipe us all out."

"So it's true. We have mortal hunters on our tails. They know about us then."

He nodded slowly. "It would seem that way. Soon they'll gather more in their group to hunt us down. I wish I knew what to do, but we need all members of the House right now. I'll try to contact Julian again. You need to contact Daoine so we can formulate a plan to figure out how to get out of this mess."

The room fell silent except for Vala's steel toe cowboy boots thumping against the creaky floor. She placed the warm, wet towel against his wounds causing him to sharply suck in air through his teeth. "I don't think that's going to help, love," he said placing his hands over hers.

She sat down next to him, pushing away the strands of dark hair that fell over his eyes. Without speaking, both of them knew exactly what he needed.

Vala set the towel beside her before scooting closer to him. "We're going to need to get back on the road again or at least try to find out where everyone stopped."

"We will. First I need to energize myself."

She smiled and grabbed his hand, placing it on the opposite side of her neck as she bared it to him.

Cassius opened his mouth to allow his canines to fall down into sharp fangs. With a hiss on his lips, he gently gripped Vala's neck and pulled her close. Not another moment passed before he dug his eager teeth into her waiting neck. Breathing in, he felt the exchange of her energy ignite his own. Her warm blood bubbled to the surface, covering his lips with a sweetness he welcomed with eager anticipation.

***

The morning dew spread across the freshly grown grass like drops of diamonds. The dampness in the air caressed Ariya's skin as she walked across the open field, leaving palace home in the distance. Young children were already dancing, playing and running outside of the small village while their parents watched and worked at the same time. Ariya greeted the people of her village and they met her with wide, warm smiles, welcoming her home.

Vina, the young woman who had recently wed to Ardin, the young Aziza warrior, carried their infant child in her arms. She rocked the baby slowly as she sang an old Aziza lullaby. Ariya remembered the song from her childhood and found herself humming along. She nodded when Vina met her gaze, raised the child slightly and smiled as she passed by. Then she continued singing the lullaby.

Ariya met the other parents with warm greetings she mused over the quick growth of the children. Aziza children grew in what seemed a matter of months while mortals took years to grow into adulthood.

Much like mortal children, the Aziza taught their offspring the ways of the world from birth. Their wings would already start to sprout from their backs shortly after their third year of birth the trials of learning to fly followed soon after.

Ariya passed by a few students learning to tame the air with their wings. Their little faces would grimace and their lips would scrunch up as they hunched over, trying with all their might to flap their wings in the open air. She cringed when they fell forward, sometimes flat on their faces. Poor things. It reminded her of her own flying trials when she was young. She stopped to help them to their feet and offering little tips that she had learned on her own.

"Don't think about it," Ariya told them. "Just let the wind carry you away like a leaf on a lazy summer day."

Their dark brown cheeks warmed with blushes as they thanked her then rushed to their parents, shouting how the Queen had helped them.

Ariya continued toward the Dreamcaster's home feeling like she was walking on air.

Tingo, the bootmaker, still had his home built of straw standing near the edge of the village. The Dreamcaster's dwelling wasn't too far ahead. Her wings fluttered nervously beneath her cloak and a chill fell over her body. An ominous feeling wafted over her, but she quickly pushed it away as she ventured onward. There was no way to know what exactly the Dreamcaster would tell her. Ariya only hoped he had good news and encouraging words to share with her.

***

The shrill cell phone's ringtone buzzed throughout the small hotel. Rich yanked the phone from its cradle. Who the crap was calling him now? Whoever it was, they lacked the good sense to wait until a more sane hour to call. "Hammond," Rich said, failing to hide the gruff annoyance in his voice.

"Rich, it's Cassius. I can't talk long. I'm sending you the telephone number to my location. Hang up and dial back."

The click sounded before Rich could respond. Cassius? What was he calling for when he could just drop by the room?

Rich stole a quick glance at Joanna, who was still asleep on their bed. Good thing the noise didn't wake her. She needed all the rest she could get with her condition.

He replaced the phone back on its cradle. A succession of numbers flashed in his mind no doubt from Cassius. Nightwalkers freaked him out with their mental mumbo jumbo. Since his best friend was a Nightwalker, he learned to live with it. Though it still drove him batty at times. He didn't even want to start on Gael's mental acrobatics and powers.

Rich dialed the number and waited. The Shifter Elves baffled him even more than the bloodsuckers. By the second ring, a familiar female voice answered. Right away he recognized her as one of Daoine's house members, Vala.

"Rich, where's Michael?" Vala asked. "We've been trying to get a hold of everyone for the past hour."

"We're all spread out. I had to take Joanna somewhere safe and from there I lost track of the house. I heard about what happened at the gas station. Any of the House members get caught up there?"

"Yeah. Adric and Petra. Cassius and I got wounded trying to help, but they..." she sighed heavily over the line. "I'm so sorry."

Rich cursed softly under his breath. Adric and Petra...He couldn't believe it. All of them had made plans to welcome the next generation in the House of Lycan. Adric was one of his most trusted members always ready to help out and do what was best for his family and friends. Petra couldn't have been a better match for him. Her quiet strength and protective nature complemented Adric's and both would have been the best parents to their young. The realization that they were gone hit a little too close to home as Rich nearly put his fist through the wall.

"Rich, I think they know about us. From what Cassius and I saw, they had weapons geared to hit us in our weak spots. I don't know who these people are or how they know us, but we aren't safe anymore. They're out to hunt us."

"Hold on, now," Rich said holding up his hand. "Are you sure about this?"

"Positive," Vala's normally strong voice was soft as she grew nervous. Rich didn't like the sound of this one bit. It had to be serious if even Vala was tripping out. "I think we have to get together and fast. I don't know what these mortals are planning, but it looks and feels like genocide."

"Wait a minute. Mortals? You mean this attack was by humans and not Rens?" He heard shuffling before Vala finally answered. "Yeah."

Son of a—

Rich gritted his teeth. It was official. After the battle between the Shifter Rens and the Ashen Twilight House, they were outed. The mortals knew they existed. He had no idea who these attackers were, but if he knew humans, they were some kind of special hunters trained to take the houses down. He wasn't going to let that happen. Not while there was a breath left in his body.

"All right." Rich ran a tired hand over his face as he sighed. "I'll give you my location. You guys get here as fast as possible. We won't be going anywhere for a while and it's best if we have strength in numbers before we lose any more of us. In the meantime, I'll try to get a hold of Michael and the rest of the House to figure out what's going on there. I'll contact Daoine and let him know you're all right." Rich gave them the address and room number of the hotel off the highway. "Watch your back and, I mean it, get here as soon as possible."

"We will. How's Joanna?"

Rich turned to the bedroom Joanna still slept peacefully. Even though he was paying attention, he made sure to keep an eye on his mate's soft breathing and the multiple rhythmic heartbeats within her body. "Resting. She was getting a bit tired of the road. After that news report, she felt a bit shook up and wanted to get off the roads."

"Probably best," Vala said. "We'll make sure nothing happens to her."

Rich's body warmed with his friend's words. "I appreciate that, but I'm more concerned with you both getting here safely first."

"We'll get on the road right away."

After saying their goodbyes, Rich hung up the phone and released a heavy exhale. He walked over to the bedroom and watched his wife sleeping softly on her side. One arm lay protectively over her stomach while she rested her head on the other.

Watching her, he pushed away thoughts of what it must have been like to be in Adric and Petra's place. Hopefully, they hadn't suffered in their last moments. Whoever did this to them would suffer if he had a choice in the matter. Slowly and painfully.

He walked over to his side of the bed and climbed in, wrapping his arm over Joanna to pull her close. His large hand covered her swollen stomach.

Closing his eyes, he listened to the heartbeat of his woman he loved and their two children within her body.

Not even a month ago, she had shared the news of her pregnancy with him and the rest of the House of Lycan. Shortly after that, she began to show. If Joanna were human, it would take months for the child to come to term, but with shifters—especially Joanna's clan which had strong wolven blood—held their young no more than sixty-three days. He hoped the stress didn't take its toll on her while they searched for their new home. He couldn't risk having her induced into early pregnancy.

One thing was for sure, he wouldn't let the same fate that became Adric and Petra fall unto Joanna and himself. He would stop it by any means, even at the risk of his own life.

Continue the Ashen Twilight Series

with

Within the Shadows of Mortals

### Worlds collide as the Ashen Twilight House moves west for a new beginning.

Aziza Faerie Ariya must choose between her love for Nightwalker Prince Jace Archane and ruling the devastated faerie kingdom.

Meanwhile, a group of mysterious hunters begin picking off members of the Ashen Twilight House. While darkness looms over the two worlds, Ariya and Jace straddle the thin line between revenge, redemption and renewal.

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About the Author

Tales of Romance-Adventure-Suspense

Rae Lori is a multi-published award winning author and a geek girl at heart. She was first bitten by the writing bug at ten and never stopped loving the written word. Over a twenty year plus writing career, she has been published with various zines, journals and publishing companies and taught new writers the craft of novel writing in between her projects. She has won various awards including an Honorable Mention in the 73rd Annual Writer's Digest Writing Competition, the 2011 ForeWord Book of the Year Gold Award Winner in Writing (Adult Nonfiction) and Best Romance Novella in SORMAG's 2009 Reader's Choice Awards.

Rae can usually be found with her head in the clouds daydreaming of her next story. That is, when she isn't gaming or watching her fave movies with her fellow geekazoid husband (it's time for another Aliens rewatch!), crocheting, or has her nose in a book.

Learn more about her work at: http://www.raelori.com

_Rae loves to hear from her readers so feel free to drop her a message!_ _Rachel@raelori.com_

