

### Seraphine Abrams'

### Kane And The Elven Realms

Smashwords Edition

Copyright © 2011 by Seraphine Abrams

This is a work of fiction. All characters and events portrayed in this literary work are either products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Kane And The Elven Realms. Copyright 2011, by Seraphine Abrams. All rights reserved.

Kane And The Elven Realms

E book

Acknowledgments

Thank you to my beloved friends and family for supporting me on this journey. I couldn't have done it without your loving thoughts and your unsurpassed enthusiasm. I appreciate your ears for listening to all of my crazy ideas, and your eyes as you read page... after page... after page. A special thank you to Igor Reshetnikov for his artistic talents and interpretations, Laurie Sue Coulter for editing my manuscript, and to my pillars of inspiration and support; JJRC, Nidia Z., and Veronica Velasquez. Finally, to Jose Arellano for translating everything I couldn't understand.

## Chapter One

Lucio arrived with his son Kane in the early hours of the day to honor his niece, Princess Allison. As they got out of their angelic transport, the old stone castle's gigantic sandy colored rocks displayed their hidden heavenly symbols; they shimmered as the sun's warm rays came to greet them. The castle was surrounded by green, mossy trees that stood as far as the eye could see. Enchanting flower bushes danced in the breeze, while the earth beneath was a carpet of silky green grass. The father and son duo, in their tailored elf like suits, stood side-by-side and patiently waited for the welcoming party. Kane's curious bright bottle green eyes glanced around, surveying the area cautiously, his left hand brushing gently on the dagger that lay resting against his hip when a sudden soft giggle came through the teasing wind over their heads. The doors of the castle burst open and out came five young men, who upon setting their eyes on Lucio, broke out in laughter.

"Uncle Luc, welcome home!" Orion, the eldest of the five, was the first to speak as the rest of the brothers circled around Lucio while shouting and play-punching him. Kane took a step away from his father as he observed the assault of hugs upon him.

"Uncle, it has been far too long," greeted Meissa, the youngest of the five, who proceeded to squeeze though his brothers to greet Lucio. He was the only one who approached the stranger standing next to their beloved uncle. "Hello Kane. Welcome." Meissa smiled warmly shook his hand and continued, "I'm Meissa, but you can call me Mei. Please come this way." As they walked inside, Kane had a view of the walls on either side of them. They were covered with images of near and far places that Kane had either already visited with his father or read about in his studies. Not a word was spoken as they walked through the castle. Mei glanced over his shoulder every so often to make sure Kane didn't get lost as they walked over to where his father and sister were waiting.

Kane and Allison met overlooking the milky white water falls cascading down from a nearby cliff. They were filled with brightly colored frogs and blue transparent dragonflies whose delicate wings shone bright in the breaking dawn. Allison's beautiful, small, but bright lilac eyes captivated Kane at first glance. To look upon her was to be reminded of what women since the beginning of time have always strived for- natural, flawless beauty. Her skin had a silky soft appearance that called and tempted anyone to reach out and touch her. The golden brown hues in her perfectly shaped eyebrows made her look a bit mischievous which brought a smile to Kane's face as their eyes met and she smiled shyly flashing for a brief moment her adorable dimples. Kane smiled back and bowed his head.

"Allison, this is Kane and you must remember your uncle Lucio. They have traveled from the outskirts of The Seven Cities to be with us in this most precious occasion." King Ambrose introduced them just as his nearly forgotten brother made his way through the door.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Allison, happy birthday!" Kane reached over taking her hand while gently kissing it. His eyes could not help but admire her standing gracefully before him wearing an amethyst, one shoulder, knee-high gown beautifully embellished with golden bursts of color around her small, tight waist.

"Hello, thank you for coming so far to join us. Truly, the honor is ours." Allison felt her stomach fill with butterflies as their skin made contact and suppressed the urge to giggle.

"Hello darling niece, it's been too long!" Lucio reached over and embraced her tenderly. "Yes, well, we're glad you are here. You are like a second father to me after all. I've never forgotten you dear uncle and the wonderful memories we share together. Although you have a son of your own now, there will always be a special place for you in my heart." Her voice flowed like silk from her lips as she spoke.

Kane could not stop from staring half smiling and following Allison's every movement making it obvious to everyone in the room. Lucio elbowed his son in the ribs clearing his throat and gesturing with his eyes to stop. Unfortunately, Kane ignored his father's gesture.

Shortly after arriving, they gathered in the dining hall for breakfast. It was more like an enormous buffet of colorful fruits in delicate colored glass bowls with wine glasses that very well could belong in a sacred temple somewhere. The sun's rays, making everything appear dream-like, illuminated the room. The walls were a warm liquid gold decorated with beautiful paintings and tapestries of beautiful waterfalls, mountain views, and breathtaking cliffs. Big crystal-like doors surrounded the outside of the old stone castle glistening in the sun while dutifully dividing the castle from the tranquil outside sounds of nature.

"It is absolutely, without a doubt, a pleasure to finally meet Kane and welcome back my dear beloved brother Lucio to our home." King Ambrose raised his glass and glanced around the table with a playful and sincere smile. Everyone sitting around the table shouted joyously and flashed a smile to Lucio and Kane.

"So tell me dear brother, what have I missed besides the wonderful years of our young, enchanting Allison and the rest of the family of course? The boys have become men in my absence."

"Well. I can tell you Allison may look innocent and defenseless, but I have made sure she is anything but, (he chewed a mouth full of food and continued,) defenseless!" He looked at her endearingly.

Kane sat next to his father and tried his best not to stare at her too much, but failed miserably. Allison's five brothers were sitting across from Kane talking amongst each other while clearly looking right at him. Kane didn't really seem to care that some were staring him down.

Orion finally spoke without even looking up from his plate, "So Kane, we were wondering if you'd be available to have a brief training session with us?" As he raised his gaze, his dark blue eyes became bottomless then sudden bursts of crimson emerged from the center with variations of orange running across like flowing ink.

"What he means is, we would like to see if you're not just another pretty boy that fumbles and stumbles when it matters most!" Sirius added while raising his eyebrow with a smug smile on his face. He reminded Kane of a ravenous dog—looking violently at him. There was a resemblance to Orion but Sirius seemed like he was in a perpetual state of anger or frustration.

"Play nice boys! He is our guest and your cousin. Remember your manners." Allison's voice was stern sounding a lot like their mother.

"Not really our cousin, right uncle Luc? He is adopted... so technically..." Orion said teasingly.

"I mean it's not like you were left on uncle Luc's doorstep with a sad note like in those dreadful mortal movies, right?" Rigel let out a light chuckle and continued, "like that actually happens."

"Shut up Rigel! Once again, your name says it all. Always putting your foot in your mouth." Mei said punching him in the ribs and shaking his head allowing his silky perfect curls to bounce joyfully around his face.

"That's enough! Don't pay much attention to them. They're just not used to being around anyone but themselves around here Kane." Allison looked at Kane apologetically.

"Our apologies Kane. Sorry mother." All said in unison but with a mocking tone.

"That's alright. I would love to join you. Should I bring my own toys, or are you willing to share yours?" Kane's bright green eyes intensified as he made eye contact with each of them while a smirk appeared on his face that made him look dangerous.

"O-k-a-y. That's what I'm talking about!" Orion grinned from ear to ear, thinking Kane had taken the bait.

"Whatever pleases the little prince." Sirius rose from his chair and curtsied; "I say we put all the toys together—who knows yours might break."

He frowned and made a disgusted gesture saying curtly, "Ours are real; sharp and dangerous," then smiled proudly.

"Sorry, but you look too pretty to be a threat Kane. What do you think sis?" Orion always enjoyed putting his sister in awkward situations and he somehow knew what to say to make her blush like a tomato.

"Don't drag me into your messes. Besides what is that saying, 'Pride comes before the fall.' Enough said," Allison remarked as she turned to her father and asked to be excused. Clearly there was too much testosterone in the room for her to handle—it was only breakfast!

Kane just laughed, his attention on the teasing five and simply said, "As you wish."

One-by-one they finished their food but continued to find ways to poke fun at Kane. Kane didn't seem to mind though. All he could think about was Allison. Finishing his breakfast, he thanked his uncle and complemented him on everything on the table.

"Your rooms have been prepared and I hope they will be to your liking. Please feel free to rest; I'm sure you need it after traveling from afar. And once again, welcome Kane, we are pleased and honored to finally meet you. Your father speaks wonders of you."

"Thank you sire. I can assure you he exaggerates when speaking about my accomplishments. but, thanks just the same."

"Please. Kane call me Ambrose."

"As you wish."

"Oh and Kane, if you'd like, I can ask Allison to show you around; after all you will be with us for some time and you can get lost in this enormous place."

"Thank you. I'd like that very much."

"I'll see to it she finds you. Rest now."

"As you wish." Kane smiled as he bowed his head in reverence leaving the dining hall gracefully.

"So Lucio, should we be calling for a healer before the day is over? I mean they may get carried away and hurt Kane. Maybe it's not such a good idea." Ambrose was genuinely concerned and a bit embarrassed for his mischievous five sons.

"Oh no. Kane can handle himself. They might hurt themselves before they hurt Kane though." Lucio's confidence in Kane was unwavering. They both broke into loud laughter and shook their heads simultaneously. Ambrose's face suddenly became fragile and his eyes fought back tears as he recalled the last time he had seen his brother and the circumstances he faced.

"Perhaps I should have made an effort to stay closer to you all after what happened." Lucio put his arm on Ambrose's shoulder and squeezed it.

"I couldn't ask you to put your life on hold just to be a comfort to me Lucio, besides it appears you had some affairs to attend to yourself. I never held anything against you. Dorian brought pain and suffering to us all." His features changed as he forced himself to pronounce the name responsible for his wife's death. "I'm truly and sincerely sorry for not seeing it early on. Ambrose, I never knew of Dorian's dark side, to be honest it's still difficult to accept it. Something must have happened when he disappeared in the caves. Perhaps nothing would have happened if I wouldn't have lost sight of him in there."

"You are not responsible for his actions. You must never blame yourself for the choices he has made."

"Yes well, I can't help but wonder what happened to him in there. I searched for hours before coming home for help. You remember when we finally found him he was curled up in a ball, shaking, and ice cold. He was never the same after that." Lucio's guilt was overwhelmingly evident.

"Enough of that, eh? You're my brother and I love you. You have shown yourself to be honorable time and time again. For that I am proud to call you my best friend! Come let's take a walk, there is someone here that is dying to see you."

As they walked through the enormous crystal like doors leading out of the dining hall and into the outside, a warm gentle wind began to stir around them both. The light breeze caressed Lucio's face, and then ran its fingers through his hair. "It's good to be home," Lucio whispered as he closed his eyes and smiled taking in the crisp air. "She's very fond of you Luc. I think I'll leave you two alone to catch up." Ambrose smiled as he stared at the air taking shape directly in front of them.

A seductive beautiful young woman came forth from the stirring wind wearing a long green sleeveless dress that held tight to her upper body accenting her perfectly round breasts and tight waist; it flowed weightlessly straight down brushing the earth beneath her bare feet—with every step the earth beneath her responded with instantaneous explosions of life. She reached out to him, her soft hands eager for his touch; cupping his face, she kissed him slowly but passionately. Lucio put his arms around her petite and taut waist pulling her closer to him.

"Hello beloved." She said tearing her lips from his. Her voice was sweet and overflowing with love.

"Hello my lady goddess. Thank you for watching over us during our long trip." Lucio grinned as he stared into her olive-green eyes.

In his mind's eye, he was seeing memories of her on the side of their transport as she kept a watchful eye over them. In his memory, her Nymphs appeared all around them, in and out of the trees like free spirits roaming the earth.

"I must watch over you my love. Dorian is on the move again and who knows what he is up to now." As she spoke it came out in a quiet whisper into his right ear.

"Dorian?" Lucio felt anger brewing within; his mouth went dry and sour at the very mention of his twin's name. His hands grew cold and all expression washed from his face.

"Love, you must learn to control that trigger." She tore herself from his grip and began to walk away from him.

Lucio's eyes slowly caressed her as they flowed from the top of her golden brown hair until they were caught in a trance by the gentle sensual swaying of her hips.

"You know his name has become more of a curse word in this family after all that's happened. I haven't spoken to him or seen him for ages— and for good reasons too. Have you forgotten the pain he has caused Ambrose and his family?" He couldn't help feeling guilt for his brother and what he had done.

His connection to Dorian was still strong after all, the bond of blood is not so easily broken between twin siblings, but somehow all he felt as he thought of his twin was a mixture of numbness and fear. Snapping out of his disappointment and sadness, he walked after her reaching for his beloved goddess's hand.

"Yes, I cannot deny that he is responsible for lots of terrible, painful experiences; however there are details you do not know which could change your view on things if you were aware of them. Furthermore, you must deal with it now if you are to survive what is coming. I don't want to lose you Lucio." As she turned to face him, his eyes wandered to her perfectly round half exposed breasts. "I won't allow it with every waking breath within me. I will keep you safe my love." She whispered so softly that Lucio did not hear a word she had spoken.

"You won't be rid of me, I promise." As he spoke his face radiated with the love, he felt for her and his fingers traced her face until finally coming over her lips. He took her gently by the hand and led her to the dark part of the woods.

## Chapter Two

Kane was lying down on the bed looking out of the beautiful glass window; arms behind his head, and legs stretched out before him and crossed. He almost looked like he was posing for a photo. His evergreen robe was silky and form fitting with angelic swirls and symbols along the sleeves, down the middle of his chest and along the edges. As the light shone on the fabric's design, it seemed to come alive. He lay there admiring the outside scenery when there was a knock at the door.

"Hey Kane," Sirius impatiently barked, "Ready to play? We'll be down in the garden. There's more space there to train. So how long will it take to get you down there? I hope you don't take as long as Allison does to get ready. Damn that's annoying!" Sirius' taunting voice continued from behind the door.

"Yes. Of course, I'm ready. Let me get my things." He reached for a leather case that hung behind the door and bolted out the door.

The garden's flowers seemed to come alive as the light breeze wafted through them bringing a scent that was amazingly sweet and tranquil. In the center of the garden, there was a moonstone gazebo and a large empty space with only a few scattered moonstone benches along its border. There, the fearsome brothers sat play-punching and poking fun at each other while wagering on how long they thought Kane was going to last before they kicked his butt.

"Hey, he didn't chicken out! Cool." Orion's face lit up with excitement. "Hmm. Maybe we should not do this Kane. I mean it won't be fair, right gentlemen?" Saiph toyed with a glass-like dagger running it side to side on his knuckles.

"You know what? I've had enough. Let's go." Kane rolled out his leather case and to everyone's surprise it was saturated with all kinds of weapons: daggers, whips, miniature staffs, that no doubt opened out to reveal their fierceness, and some they didn't even recognize. Jaws dropped. Kane kept his eyes on his weapons watching their reaction from the corner of his eyes and let out a subtle chuckle. "Okay gentlemen, ready when you are." Kane grabbed one of the small staff-like sticks from his collection. He twirled it easily in his hands and as it twirled behind his back, it clicked open doubling in size while unleashing wicked sharp ends on either side.

"Well Kane I have to say that all looks very impressive. But the question remains... do you know how to use them?" Sirius put his right hand on Kane's shoulder and squeezed it as hard as he could. Kane's eyes suddenly went from a bright, bottle green to a deep, abysmal evergreen. His aura crackled as it made its presence known running up Sirius' hand while returning the gesture.

The remaining four walked slowly from the sides smiling and playing with their weapons; their eyes on Kane like a pack of hungry wolves. Kane closed his eyes and as he took a deep cleansing breath, he allowed his aura to pour over his spear. In the next instant, he blocked Sirius' first blow with a hard snap. The five came at him maneuvering lances and staffs that seemed to have a mind of their own.

Each weapon's detail was beautifully hand carved by The Earth Goddess's very fingers. They were somewhat transparent in appearance; honey brown, framed in gold, and had thin elegant angelic symbols along the blade. The hilt bore the Lady Goddess's signature. Each lethal instrument connected with every living thing around it in an unbreakable network through the air above, the water flowing nearby, and earth beneath; making the five brothers extremely aware of their surroundings. The five connected with each gift and each other, making them a force to be reckoned in any battlefield. Clearly, this was just an exercise for them and a chance to kick their "pretend" cousin's butt because he was definitely interested in their baby sister.

Orion took a moment to watch Kane carefully, analyzing his movements and assessing Kane's strengths and trying to figure out his weaknesses before engaging once again.

"Orion? Hello, are you thinking of joining, or are you our cheer section today? Frankly you're going to gross me out if you are." Sirius spoke effortlessly without turning to look at his brother even though he was clearly attacking Kane fiercely with a long moaning staff.

"You know Orion, Sirius, always waiting for just the right moment..." Saiph said rolling his eyes in boredom as he brought his sword out of its sheath and spun it with incredible ease, whistling joyously with each revolution.

"Nope. Orion is THE HUNTER! "Mei raised both arms up and growled, looking dangerous but extremely cute, exposing his muscle toned arms." We're the soldiers and he's the general!" Meissa shook his head and glanced in Orion's direction.

"Shut-up Mei." Orion shouted, keeping his deep blue eyes on Kane.

Kane jumped out of the center of the circle in a powerful swirling motion, landing on a crouching stance spear behind his back and a wicked smile on his face.

"Whoa!!" Saiph, Mei, Sirius, and Rigel exclaimed in unison as they followed after him.

"Okay. That was cool!" Mei whispered to himself, obviously impressed by Kane.

"It's time for a little breeze," said Sirius cocking his head to one-side, eyes ablaze. The air suddenly turned violent and hot in the direction of Kane.

"Stop it Si—you'll fry him!" Orion ran at an astounding speed-tackling Sirius to the ground. Upon impact, his concentration was broken and the gust disappeared as suddenly as it began.

"What the hell Orion!" Sirius shouted, shoving Orion to one side.

"You're an idiot Si. It's a training exercise not a battle field." Mei said as he helped Orion to his feet.

"Come on, dog-star." Orion laughed as he punched Sirius on the shoulder.

"Let's go. Kane is still standing." Saiph gave a signal to his brothers as he ran ahead of them straight for Kane.

"Round two." The five said simultaneously.

Looking at them from a distance was Allison playing with her hair. She was wearing her training uniform; overriding the standard pants and boots was a beautiful dark violet, form-fitting, robe-like top that came down to her knees. Around her small waist laid a scarf with swirly designs in hues of gold that surrounded a large amethyst medallion, bearing her family crest. Hugging her hips was a belt with a variety of miniature amber colored wand-like daggers.

"Hey Kane, look it's Allison." Orion was counting on Kane taking the bait and signaled his brothers to wait for them to strike. He met their gaze, each of them nodding in agreement. However, when his eyes came to his youngest brother, he was met with Mei's frown— clearly refusing to be a part of it. They exchanged several non-verbal signals before Mei stepped away breaking their tactical circle.

Kane took the bait and turned his head in the direction of Allison. Sirius and Orion smiled triumphantly, aimed for Kane's solar plexus and lower back, while the other three found their perspective targets on Kane's unsuspecting body. As their weapons were inches from making contact, Kane disappeared into black smoke.

Out of breath, Kane gasped between words. "Wow. You. Really. Don't play fair. What a shame!" As he spoke he appeared from behind each one and with a single strike brought them all to the ground. Kane glanced up over his shoulder to find Allison shaking her head in disbelief and rolling her beautiful lilac eyes at them.

"Well this is embarrassing." Orion said, as he took Kane's arm to pull himself up.

"Not too much I hope." Kane looked down at him smiling shyly.

"You are surprisingly clever and very well trained." Orion said as he dusted himself off.

"That's his way of saying he thinks you're cool and you've impressed him beyond words." Allison came from behind them, her eyes focused on Kane. She was extremely impressed but tried desperately not to show it.

" Well then that settles that," Saiph said, as he extended his arm to shake Kane's hand.

"I've got to say, that swirling tornado jump was awesome. You have got to teach me that move!" Mei said as he reached for Kane's hand.

"Next time all gloves come off. If this dork wouldn't have tackled me down, I would have had you." Sirius said as he pushed Orion to one side.

"And you would have killed him stupid." Orion gave Sirius a nasty mixed look—something between disappointment and disgust.

"Well, we'd better get ready, Father will be expecting everyone for lunch in the dining hall soon. No more games boys." Allison walked away dismissing them with her hand. Kane followed her with his gaze. Her hips swayed sensually from side to side as she made her way to the closest entrance to the palace.

"You have my blessing! Oh, no wait, I almost forgot, you'll have to fight Albert." Mei said, as he patted Kane on the shoulder.

"Thanks! Wait. What?" Kane felt confused. Of course, if he would have paid attention to Mei's statement, he would have understood but he was too busy admiring Allison's artistry.

Lunch was a lot like an ideal family gathering around the dining table; again, it was a beautiful display of color served in antique looking platters and bowls. While taking in the wonderful aromas, everyone waited patiently for Lucio.

Mei had strategically sat down next to Kane and the rest of his brothers so he could talk endlessly to Kane about the variety of weapons in his repertoire.

The main door swung open as Lucio and Lady Gaia glided forward. Everyone's attention automatically went to them. She wore an elegant long sleeve dress, and hanging from her neck was a golden medallion bearing the four elements in their corresponding colors. Lucio looked dashingly handsome in his grey elve-like suit. Although their bodies were not touching, the connection between them was obvious. Lady Gaia's face was flushed and Lucio's body gave off a sort of radiance and an electric energy poured out from his pores.

"Good. Now we can begin." Ambrose gestured for them to take a seat next to him and smiled as if he knew a secret he wasn't telling.

The evening ended with a huge ball in honor of the lovely Allison. Guests poured in the enormous hall with joyful greetings, embracing Ambrose, Allison, and her five brothers. Kane and Lucio stood silently and elegantly waiting for their introduction to mostly everyone. Lucio greeted them with a big smile and shouts of joy as they remembered old times.

Three pale, young and gorgeous women came through the doors, reeking of confidence and power, catching the eye of Kane. They looked almost identical; the only difference amongst them was their eye color; respectively they had stunning green, blue, and golden brown eyes. Everything else was almost an exact replica—long sleek shiny straight, silver-blue hair, knee length dresses that hugged their upper body like a glove while flowing gracefully from their waists down to their knees. As they glided across the floor, their almost transparent skin displayed playful traces of silver, blue, and gold; like bursts of glitter. Their faces were remarkably beautiful: high set, long and angled eyebrows, small straight noses, with a fleshy rounded tip, and rich lips. Kane found himself intrigued as his eyes ran from their faces down to their small ballerina type shoes.

"Kane this is Alecto, Megaera, and Tisiphone." They've been with us since I was a child. They're practically my sisters. Allison hugged each one before letting him greet them, whispering to each of them, "This is Kane, my uncle Lucio's adopted son."

"Hello, it's a pleasure to meet you three." Kane bowed his head but held each of them in his gaze. As he came to Meg, he felt a strong spark within him that he could not ignore.

"Well, well is he fair game sisters?" Megaera, the beauty with green eyes spoke in her native tongue to her smiling companions, bearing her sharp, vampire-like white teeth. "Tisiphone, Allison, Alecto, any takers?" Megaera continued waiting for a reply from her silent sisters as she smiled and looked straight into Kane's bottle-green eyes. She felt a strong attraction to Kane, much like an uncontrollable impulse—what was not to like? Bottle-green eyes, long eyebrows, long eyelashes, flawless tight skin stretched across his long elegant nose, short dark wavy hair, and a lean, muscular body that could very well belong to a god. Megaera turned her attention to Allison as their auras sparked and sizzled. Allison's body language was clearly shouting to Meg to "back off."

"Sorry Megaera, it appears the princess has already chosen her suitor." Tisiphone and Alecto said in unison, looking at Meg apologetically. "We shall see." Megaera said, while turning her attention to the lively music that began to rise soft and steadily in the background. The lights dimmed as the hall turned into a dance floor, leaving only the sidewall scones fully lit for all those that sat still, wrapped in conversations.

"Hello love-lies," A male voice came from behind the triplets.

"Bellum!" Alecto almost shrieked when she said his name. Standing before Kane was a young handsome boy whose short, sleek hair fell over the left side of his face. Long dark eyebrows framed his alluring deep grey eyes and his small thin lips appeared to be keeping something tightly bound. His fine burgundy colored robe flowed down his small frame.

"Don't forget about us now girls." Two more male voices came from behind Kane.

As Kane turned to face the voices behind him, two other fine young men wearing identical dark blue robes were walking towards them. Both had a light golden brown skin tone but one was slightly shorter than the other. (One of who was Nikolai, who never admitted his shortcomings.) Duncan's eyes were a light shade of grey, framed in sexy long eyelashes and long thick eyebrows. His skin was pulled tight across his face, his nose was long, yet refined, and his lips were deliciously semi-full and silky soft. In a slight contrast, Nikolai's bright eyes were a grayish green with a small compact and rounded nose, while his bottom lip was fuller than the top.

"Kane, these three dashing gentlemen are Bellum, Duncan, and Nikolai." Meg said as she reached for Duncan's hand.

"Hello." Kane said as he shook hands.

"He's Allison's 'unofficial' cousin," Tisiphone said teasingly.

"Hey Allison. Happy birthday! "They shouted together.

"Okay intros done. Let's dance! It's nice to meet you Kane." Nikolai took Tisiphone by the waist and pulled her close to him.

"Yep! I'm with you bro. See you Kane." Duncan pulled Meg away (she lipped a quick "bye" to everyone.)

"Bellum shall we?" Alecto's invitation was intended to leave Allison and Kane alone.

"Yeah. Sure. Talk to you later Kane." Bellum took Alecto by the hand and kissed it. His eyes never left hers as they walked away from the remaining two.

The attention of most every young girl in the party was on Kane (obviously waiting for the opportunity to pounce!) Allison's dark purple dress made her even more appealing as it hugged every curve of her upper body and then just gracefully flowed down to the floor, much like something a high priestess would wear in a sacred temple. Her hair flowed down in sleek, perfect waves while her eyes took a deeper shade of purple. Kane didn't fall behind with his grayish black suit that had metallic bursts around the priestly collar and along the edges of the sleeves and down the middle of his chest. He looked like a beautiful painting of a celestial god come to life. Everything about Kane shouted grandeur and perfection in each detail of his appearance. Allison fidgeted with her hands and looked everywhere else to avoid Kane's piercing stare.

"Allie. Would you like to dance?" Kane looked into her enchanting light purple eyes, with his eyebrows raised as he smiled slowly while extending his arm to her.

"Sure, Kane. Why not?"

As they moved elegantly across the floor, it seemed as though they could not leave each other's eyes. Allison could not tear herself from his charming smile and his intriguing bottle-green eyes. For the first time, Allison felt a connection with Kane that she'd never experienced with anyone else before. It left her secretly hungry for more. From a distance, Mei smiled surreptitiously hoping that they'd fall in love, as he too danced elegantly across the floor with one of the many admiring girls in the dining hall.

The dance floor was a stunning display of beautifully dressed couples, moving elegantly and effortlessly across the floor. Among them were Lucio and Lady Gaia enjoying each other's company, and obviously deeply in love with each other. Lucio could not help smiling as he held her in his arms. Lady Gaia would purposely get too close to him as an excuse or opportunity to kiss him. Bellum, Duncan, and Nikolai danced gracefully with Meg, Tisiphone and Alecto changing partners simultaneously, making the girls laugh and giggle as the three delicious dashing young gentlemen held them tightly across their wasp-like waists.

Orion, Sirius, Saiph and Rigel enjoyed themselves dancing with random girls—laughing, chatting, and often stealing kisses from those in great admiration. Except for Mei– he felt kissing was exclusively for the girl he'd fall in love with and therefore did not join in. Ambrose stood from a distance watching everyone he held close to his heart having a great time...wishing his beloved Elin would be standing alongside him. If she were, she would be begging him to take her out to the dance floor. In many ways, Allison was a lot like her mother: beautiful, brilliant, happy, and lively. Just thinking about his lost love brought tears to his eyes.

The evening seemed to have passed by too quickly and before long, it was sunrise. Kane and Allison danced most of the night together with the few exceptions of her father and brothers cutting in, giving Meg the opportunity to dance with Kane.

To Kane's surprise, he found himself laughing and joking with her as if they'd known each other for ages.

## Chapter Three

In the days that followed, Kane and Allison, along with her five brothers, Nikolai, Duncan, Bellum, and the triplets seemed to seamlessly interconnect with one another. Their bond became virtually unbreakable. Their days were spent training, eating, playing together, and naturally growing stronger as a whole—something that Kane was infinitely grateful for. He always wanted to feel part of a bigger family; he and his father were all he knew. Until now.

"Everything is going well, yes?" Ambrose spoke to Allison as they took a morning stroll in the early hours of the morning.

"Yes father. I couldn't have asked for a better birthday."

"So tell me are you ready for tonight?" After a short pause he continued, "We don't have to announce anything if you are having second thoughts."

"I don't know." She let out a deep sigh, "This has been planned for so long it's just that..."

"You know when I met your mother she was not at all interested in this." He gestured to himself. "I had to literally win her over, and it wasn't easy."

"Father. She adores you."

"Yes, we both adored each other. I still do. She was my soul mate, my better half if you will. My life became colorless and dull once she vanished. Don't misunderstand me I love you and the boys. It's just that my heart is incomplete without your mother." He let out a long trembling sigh and brought his hand over his heart.

Allison stopped walking and turned to face her father. "I still believe she might still be out there. We can never lose hope." She looked into his dark eyes, held his head between her soft lady hands, and kissed his forehead.

"Actually, Kane reminds me a lot of myself." He turned to look at Allison. She couldn't disguise the bright smile that spread across her face every time she heard his name; it provoked the flashing of her adorable dimples. They came to the training yard next to the garden, and as if by fate, Kane was practicing with Bellum, Duncan and Nikolai.

"And you remind me so much of your mother."

Allison turned to look at her father with shock. Her heart felt like it was trying to leap out of her chest and her face began to flush bright red like a tomato. They stood there watching as the three maneuvered their weapons with effortless ease.

Could Kane be the one for her? She looked at him with soft careful eyes following his every graceful movement. He was definitely gorgeous, elegant, and making his way into the hearts of everyone who came to know him. Her brothers' admired him. Her father was obviously impressed by Kane; he was so enjoyable to be with. Flashes of their evening together surfaced; his enchanting green eyes, his flawless skin and charming boyish smile that lit up the room like a miniature sun.

"Hey Allison! Your Majesty." Duncan and Nikolai greeted them with a bow.

"Good Morning your Majesties!" Kane turned in their direction and twirled the spear effortlessly from side to side until it finally rounded a final revolution behind his back—the spear drawing back to a harmless looking stick.

"Will you be joining us? The girls will be along any minute as well." Duncan's light grey eyes grew bigger as he wagged his eyebrows with delight.

"Yes, and Meg is so very fond of Kane. Hmm." Nikolai elbowed Kane teasingly and wagged his eyebrows as well.

"We are here." Meg, Tisiphone and Alecto announced their arrival. Their training outfits shimmered like their beautiful, almost transparent skin, making them appear like they weren't wearing anything but their bare skin. They were clearly god-like as they strode into the training yard.

Allison, suddenly feeling short of breath, stared at Meg. She was always beautiful, charming, strong, and exquisite. Allison remembered the countless times she wished she shared some of those wonderful qualities. Although she knew she wasn't ugly or unpleasant looking, standing in the same room with her Fury sisters, she couldn't help feeling that she lacked something. If Kane would have to choose between them, would he choose her over Meg?

"Ugh! It's a fifty- fifty chance...Uh-uh. Meg is a gorgeous, strong warrior and I'm just a pretty princess." Allison's mind-babble was about to swallow her and send her into a depressed state just when Alecto intervened.

"Allison? Are you listening?" Alecto looked at her and followed her gaze toward Meg.

"Are you going to join us darling sister?" Alecto took a step toward Allison interrupting her eye contact or gaze that held her.

"Um. Yes?" Allison snapped out of her mind-babble and turned to look at the Fury sisters. Tisiphone quickly stepped next to Allison and whispered, "Don't make me bite you. Snap out of it!"

"Meg, Alecto, we'll be right back, Allison has to change. See you in a bit." Tisiphone carried her off swiftly.

"Well then my children, I will be off as well. Do try not to hurt yourselves too badly, huh." Ambrose smiled, turned, and left.

Allison and Tisiphone reached her chambers in a wink. Allison was still very shaken. Just the thought of some other girl being with Kane had awakened something in her that she was either too scared or too arrogant to admit.

"Give me your hand Allison," requested Tisiphone, as she stood directly in front of her palms up.

"I'll be fine. I just need a moment Tisiphone."

"Really? Okay." She moved away from her and then continued, "Kane and Meg would make a beautiful couple don't you think?" As Allison heard his name, her knees felt weak, her heart galloped like a frantic horse and she almost forgot to breathe.

"Enough said." Tisiphone smiled triumphantly. "Why don't you just let him know about your feelings for him Allison? It's not very hard, just—"

"H-mm. it's not that easy Tisiphone, besides, Meg seems to be interested in Kane and I'm not going to be fighting with her over the affection of someone I just met" As Allison spoke, she tried to convince herself of what she was saying. "Besides, Meg's qualities surpass mine any day; she's a hundred times more beautiful, an incredible warrior, and I'm sure she has more knowledge in her little pinky when compared to me. Tisiphone, ugh. I know I'm not unpleasant to look at but still." After the night of dancing she shared with Kane, she did feel something for him but she was too afraid to admit it.

"You know Allison, sometimes we have to fight for people and beliefs we hold dear to our hearts. You can't expect for everything to fall into place without any effort from your part, because then you won't appreciate the value of that relationship, person, or achievement. That is what helps us grow mature and become better, stronger, and closer to our true potential." Tisiphone looked at Allison with disappointment in her eyes; it was clear that Allison either ignored, or failed to realize the sacrifices her parents had gone through for the sake of maintaining the balance of "good vs. evil." Some might say these sacrifices came at a price too high...the life of Lady Elin, a loving remarkable queen, wife, mother, friend, and warrior.

"Tisiphone, when did you know you were in love?" Allison asked oblivious to Tisiphone's point.

"That's easy. You just feel alive, the world is a brighter, and better place when you are with the person you love. You can face anything with him at your side because you know no matter what happens he will always be there for you, and you for him." As Tisiphone answered, Allison saw a bright smile spread across her face.

Back in the training yard Bellum, Kane, Duncan and Nikolai stood waiting for Alecto and Megaera's signal to begin. As soon as they heard the sound of the long horn, they were off hunting the girls, who were in an exercise of precision, cunningness, and strategy. Duncan and Nikolai's bows and arrows were made of a transparent material making them absolutely impossible to see—the only warning was the whistling sound as they cut through the air until fatally wounding its target.

"Here we go..." Kane whispered softly to himself.

"Ready bro?" Nikolai asked, exited and pumped.

"Always!" Duncan half laughed as they set off. "Bellum, are you sure you don't want the bow?" Duncan offered it once again more out of courtesy.

"P-lease. I don't need any toys, just my hands." Bellum made a dismissing gesture with his hands. He opened and closed his hands making a crunching sound much like he was cracking his knuckles all at once. With a smile and hands ablaze he waited for the hunt to begin.

The girls' laughter echoed together with the sound of the long horn through the garden and training yard as they silently ran like a playful wind around the three who hunted them.

"Mm-hem." Alecto's voice brushed up against Bellum's right ear. Bellum reached out but came up empty handed. His ears were filled with her sensual laughter.

"Good. That would have been too easy love." Bellum began to chant, his eyes turned a metallic liquid grey and the marks in his hands glowed faintly. Two ferocious doglike creatures came forth from the ground beneath him. He petted them and whispered into their ears "Furies," and then they took off with Bellum trailing behind.

"Aw great, pets!" The girls' voices whispered and giggled. "Come to me babies, momma is waiting!" Alecto's voice called out to the creatures claiming ownership over them. The two creatures stopped abruptly, their ears stood up twisting awkwardly moving in all directions searching for the voice that called out to them—"It's alright. Go to her, lead the way." Bellum ran his long, thin fingers on the creature's head; the symbols on his hands reappeared, shimmering and glowing like distant stars, moving as if they were slowly coming to life. The creatures panted and smiled fiercely, licking Bellum's hands and rubbing their fur like little pups on his legs.

Would it be easy to find them? Hardly, Furies are mysterious creatures of "legends and mythology." If they didn't want to be found, it would be anything short of impossible to track them— a wonderful challenge for a young sorcerer like Bellum. The fact that she was his lady made it even more fun. Bellum thought of her enchanting face, melodic voice, and extraordinary abilities. He sighed, "Alecto." As he whispered her name, he felt her presence surround and fill him with endless and joyous energy. Bellum smiled bearing his flawless white teeth, and his eyes had a shine to them that would outshine any star in the sky.

Kane jumped up taking to the trees and began looking for the two Furies from hundreds of feet in the air. He had never before encountered these beautiful creatures, but he somehow knew they presented a challenge for him and everything he knew. Kane suspected that Meg was somehow connected to him. Soul mate perhaps? Were their destinies somehow crossed? As he searched through the trees, his mind raced with these questions and found himself studying Meg's face in his minds-eye. To deny her beauty would be blasphemous and cruel. Kane's soul lost itself in the thought of her face as it delighted in every silky curve; as he came upon her lips, his soul trembled and a shock ran through him like lightning.

Duncan and Nikolai ran side by side, smelling the air around them and looking for tracks.

"There are no visible tracks."

"They're up above Nikolai, watch yourself!"

"You mean Kane's going have all the fun? Damn it!" Nikolai crouched getting ready to jump up. "Wait! You feel that? Something is coming." Duncan cocked his head to one side and ran his fingers over his hair, exposing his fawn-like ears. Duncan faced in the direction the sound was coming from, bow at the ready. Out of nowhere came a deafening roar as Meg rode on an enormous hog-like creature with its horns aiming straight at them.

"Move!!!" Duncan called out to Nikolai as the beast almost ran over them. Their arrows left their hands piercing the air with brutal force but went through the beast. It was some kind of wind creature making one wonder how you would kill or even injure something like that. Meg laughed as she turned herself around to face them, then blew them both a kiss and vanished. "Okay, she is testing my patience." Nikolai rolled his eyes and let out an exasperated sigh.

"We just have to outsmart her that's all." Duncan let out a chuckle and smiled as he thought of Meg.

"I've never come across Furies before these three. I know very little about them. They're spirits of justice and vengeance that work in three's usually. Seeking out ruthlessly and cunningly, those who have escaped justice." Nikolai frowned as he tried to recall anything else of use. "Oh and they've been here with Ambrose ever since his wife, Lady Elin, disappeared, lethally injured at that. No one has seen or heard of her ever since. Dorian's doing I bet."

"There's no surprise about Dorian's roll in this family's disaster. Misfortunes seem to come hand in hand with him, but that is for them to share with us whenever, and if they see it fit." Duncan let out a deep sigh. "Well then, we have to do our homework, don't we? Furies have always surrounded themselves with mystery and their tactics are unknown—that is why they are feared creatures." Duncan looked around as he spoke trying to figure out what the two Furies were plotting and took inventory of his weapons.

"Well you know we don't really know with certainty what is going on with Dorian. I mean his twin doesn't know how or why he suddenly switched sides." Nikolai let out a long frustrating sigh and decided to change the subject, "You know Meg is awfully fond of Kane. I think she'll try something. Maybe we should just follow Kane and like 'bees to honey,' she will come to us."

"That's the best suggestion you've had today Nikolai. Come on, let's go."

They took off in one swift leap up the giant trees—giving them front row seats to the drama that was about to unfold down below.

## Chapter Four

"So are you going to give me your hands or not?" Tisiphone looked at Allison, eyebrows raised, palms up. In this fashion, she had the ability to see into Allison's future. This disturbed Allison; she was not sure she wanted to know.

"I don't know Tisi."

"I hate it when you call me that. Stop procrastinating. Come on!"

As soon as she laid her hands on her palms, Tisiphone let out a gasp at the visions she enabled. Her silver-blue hair floated like she was under water; her bright, blue eyes grew distant and the golden traces along her face shone bright. "You and I are eternally bonded."

"That's good."

"No. Allison that's bad, you seem to forget what I am. Furies are never a good sign. Now quiet please." She took a deep breath and started to concentrate.

"Oh no." Visions of a cold, dark place invaded her mind. "Join me or die," whispered throughout the small space– the voice was unmistakable...Dorian! Lady Elin and Allison's voice blended together calling out for help as monstrous four legged demons cornered Allison. Her clothes were torn and her body appeared completely exhausted and at the brink of death. Lady Elin was swallowed in the eerie darkness as she desperately tried to reach her daughter. The vision made Tisiphone's white vampire-like teeth flash in anger, and her body began to turn almost invisible. Blue and silver traces surfaced while running around her entire body, incasing it in an incredible, yet beautiful armor that hugged her body like a glove. Around her waist, a belt materialized with daggers, swords, fierce looking knives, short miniature lances, and a deadly sickle all of which looked like they were made out of glass.

Allison noticed her alarmed expression; "What is it? What do you see?"

"It's your mother, Lady Elin." As she spoke, Tisiphone's glass-like eyes appeared to be a bottomless blue abyss—like when you look down on a crystal clear sea from the heights of a terrifying cliff.

"What?" Allison desperately tried to remember images of her beloved mother or any memory that would link the two but came up empty. Allison had seen the triplets so much in this state of foresight that she anxiously anticipated hearing the news of what threatened to come to life

"I'm sorry Allison. I have to go. I must speak with your father. Now!" She vanished before Allison could say another word.

"Mother." Allison's voice came out in a deep, lip-quivering sigh as tears like torrential rain began streaming down her flawless skin and she ran out to the garden in search of ONE person...Kane.

Back at the training yard, Kane teleported silently from tree to tree looking for the two beautiful Furies. "K-a-n-e..." Alecto's voice echoed in the teasing wind. Her almost transparent face, with a mischievous smile, appeared behind him. She reached into her belt while locking her gaze on Kane. Out of nowhere appeared Bellum, behind her in a dark misty shadow.

"You're mine!" Bellum's arms came out of the misty shadow and wrapped around her, forcing her to turn away from Kane. "You don't expect me to let you go chasing other men, do you? Even if it's just for sport." Bellum's chin was on her shoulder and his breath made her skin tingle. Alecto just let out a loud laugh and kissed him. The creatures under them let out a deafening howl of triumph and disappeared.

"Well, that's one!" Kane said as he glanced down at Nikolai and Duncan, seeing a blur coming at them at full speed. As he got closer, he saw Nikolai and Duncan jump high and land behind a speeding Meg. Without thinking twice, he jumped right at her, bringing Meg down to the ground. The creature she was riding dissolved as soon as she was knocked off. The air was filled with their laughter—her white sharp teeth glistened in the sun's rays, and his melodious laugh ran playfully though the air. They finally came to a stop and Meg was pinned down between Kane's legs.

"Hmm. Hello handsome." Meg's sleek silver blue hair clung to her face and she couldn't help but smile as she stared into Kane's mesmerizing green eyes, his tempting lips, and then back to his eyes.

"You're letting me win. Why?"

"K-a-n-e," Meg sighed, "I don't lose." She pulled forward and kissed him. As their lips touched, her mouth savored the sweetness of his taste. Kane felt a jolt of electricity explode onto his lips and run through his entire body, filling him with endless energy and pleasure. Kane let out a quiet moan as their lips pressed hard against each other until finally coming to a rhythmic dance. His hands came up to hold her steady as he lost himself in the moment; his other hand ran down to her waist as he pulled her into him. Meg's heart was steady even though her body trembled with the flowing parade of kisses between her and Kane. Kane felt a rushing heat wave under his skin as the moment between them became more intimate and his hands ran down from her silky neck to her soft arms until both arms wrapped around her tight waist.

A sound from behind one of the trees interrupted their private moment and as Kane reluctantly pulled away from her, Meg bit his lip then simply vanished.

A sobbing Allison ran back seeking the arms of her father.

"Allison? Allison wait!" Kane's heart stopped suddenly and guilt began to overwhelm him. Why did he feel guilt when there was nothing between them? It wasn't that he didn't want to share something special, but up until that moment, she showed no interest in him at all; at least nothing that he noticed. As his mind raced to find the answers to his unspoken questions, his body was still trying to assimilate the overwhelming electrical storm of pleasure that the lovely Fury had bestowed upon him with just one kiss. Kane ran after Allison to comfort her, but in reality, it was more like a reaction to his upbringing that clearly admonished hurting others. The whole time he followed her, he was really only thinking about Meg.

"Leave me alone." Allison's eyes grew violent as the image of Kane and Meg flashed in her mind. "Allie. Please, let me explain."

"There is nothing to explain. I'm sorry for interrupting. All of the images of Kane flooded her mind bringing forth strong emotions that overwhelmed her: their first meeting, the courtyard, Kane and her brothers, the unforgettable dance they shared, Meg, and the kiss she had just witnessed.

She managed to compose herself but the tears wouldn't stop from running down her cheeks and her legs felt they could not carry her any farther. Meg had won– she would not fight for his affection. Clearly, he had made his choice and it was not she; besides, she had only known him for what, A few days?

"One does not fall in love with someone that quickly. Allison," she told herself. "Stop it! You're being ridiculous! Obviously you misunderstood and misread his intentions like a total idiot." As she argued with herself, Kane managed to get ahead of her, bringing her to a halt.

Kane reached out to her, guilt written all over his face.

"Don't." She jerked away as if his touch would burn her.

"Please Allie. Listen to me—"

"Hey guys!" Bellum walked towards Kane and Allison with his arm wrapped around Alecto's waist. Nikolai and Duncan jumped from a nearby tree joining them.

"Hello boys!" She quickly wiped away her tears, her flawless face turned expressionless, except for the smile she forced upon her lips. "So if the exercise if over, please excuse me I have to get back." Not even glancing in Kane's direction, Allison turned and ran as fast as her legs could carry her, straight to her chambers.

Nikolai and Duncan exchanged glances but said nothing. Nikolai turned to Kane with a menacing smile and a waggle from his eyebrows. Kane could not help but unleash a smile that radiated with pleasure, if but for a moment before turning his attention to the two Furies and Bellum. "Uh. What just happened?" Bellum looked at Kane perplexed then at Duncan and Nikolai.

"Nothing to be too concerned about I hope." Alecto looked directly at Kane.

## Chapter Five

Everyone had been called to the dining hall for a very special announcement. As Kane looked around his eyes accounted for everyone including Allison's brothers but no Allison among a sea of strangers. Meg sat next to her chattering sisters eyes fixed on Kane. Lucio sat next to his lady, also immersed in conversation. Mei looked at Kane and hesitantly approached him. He felt an obligation to warn him of what was about to happen just when the doors opened and King Ambrose stepped through them.

"Greetings beloved family and cherished friends, it is now my great pleasure to announce the engagement of my beloved daughter Allison to Prince Albert of Aisley." His eyes were apologetic as they came upon Kane's face. Kane turned in search of Allison's face, stunned by what his ears had heard. She didn't even turn to address him. Her mind had been made up, and yet she could not bear to look at him. The couple began walking through the room as everyone bestowed their congratulations upon them. Kane felt as if the air had left him as he shook his head. He collapsed a few feet from his father.

Kane woke up days later aching all over, his father, Lucio was pacing like a caged lion and surrounded by a dozen strangers attending his every need.

"Son you are awake! You nearly gave me a panic attack. How are you feeling? Lucio was trying unsuccessfully to sound normal and calm.

"What...happened?" Kane was surprised to hear his own voice. His tone was lower and he felt as if his hands and head were on fire.

"We're not sure. You collapsed so suddenly and were unconscious, you don't remember anything?" Everyone in the room left them, each one relieved he was all right.

"We're still at my brother's house."

"Allison." He whispered to himself under his breath as he fought to remember. "What? Why are you looking at me like that dad? "

Clearing his throat, Lucio said, "Hem. Look Kane, I'm sorry about the whole engagement thing, but you've just met."

Kane looked across the room and out the window, tuning his fathers voice out.

"She can be yours if you so desire it!" A clear voice whispered in his head. Images of having Allison in his arms, kissing her lips flashed before his eyes.

"What?" Kane turned to look to his father.

"You cannot feed this infatuation Kane! Are you listening to me?"

"Yes I heard you, but what was it you said before that?" Kane's face was puzzled.

"I haven't said anything else. Are you alright? Perhaps I should call the royal healers to come and examine you." Lucio took a few steps toward Kane curious and somewhat confused.

"Yes, I think so. I just thought I heard something that's all. I'll go now and freshen up, please excuse me father."

Lucio opened his mouth to object but before he could utter a single word, Kane was gone.

As Kane showered in his chambers, he noticed that his arms felt harder than normal, his fingers appeared slender and longer, and every muscle in his body was rock hard and chiseled, making him look like a perfectly sculpted statue.

"Strange-"Kane ran his hands down his arms. Although it was clearly his body it didn't feel quite the same as he remembered.

"Allison." He felt a sweet taste in his mouth while once again whispering her name. His heart began to pounce hard, and his whole body began to shake uncontrollably. He closed his hands into fists and took several deep breaths trying to make the shaking stop.

Once again, he heard the voice invade his mind, "You can have anyone your heart or body desires. Just say it, utter your wishes to life." Kane shook his head trying to ignore the voice as it echoed in his ears softly.

"Hello. Kane, are you all right? "Allison knocked and her voice came from behind the door startling him.

"Allison? Is that you?"

"Yes. Are you all right in there? Uncle Lucio said you didn't look like yourself. I... I'm sorry, I should come back later. Where are my manners—?"

"No. Please don't go. I'll be right out."

When Kane came through the door, in his blue-grey fitted suit, his bottle-green eyes took a more enchanting shade and his wet hair seemed to just fall into place. As she discretely glanced at him she could not help but admire the sight before her—a wingless angel of beauty and perfection blended harmoniously into one called Kane. Allison could not help but smile sheepishly and as she felt her cheeks warm, she knew she was blushing and looked away.

"I'm sorry. I got concerned after seeing you collapse. I came to see you shortly after, but with the-mm..." Allison's words drifted purposely to avoid mentioning anything about the wedding preparations. She had been having second thoughts about the whole arranged marriage after spending time with Kane, but she was not about to admit it to anyone.

"I understand. Thank you for your concern." Kane smiled slowly then a sudden desperate urge to reach out to her ran through his body wiping the smile off his face.

"Just take her. She's right in front of you Kane. Reach out and take her!" The voice once again invaded his head, flashing images of what it would be like to have Allison to himself. Kane closed his eyes and with all his strength tried to push all those images from his head and tune out the intruder's voice. Seeing Kane so vulnerable and filled with genuine concern, Allison approached him and hugged him.

"I'm glad to see you are feeling better. You gave us all a great fright. Everyone has been at your side; Alecto, Tisiphone, Meg (as she said her name it came out though her teeth), Bellum, Duncan, Nikolai and not to mention, my brothers have been worried to pieces, especially Mei. He absolutely adores you." She whispered with her lips inches away from his ear.

"You are all very kind, and each have a special place in my heart." Kane took deep steady breaths. His arms were still at his sides fighting the impulses that pushed him to give in to them. Having her so close and yet so far— after all, she was engaged to be married.

"It hasn't been the same without you, Kane." As the words left her trembling lips, she felt a need to taste his lips, but instead brushed them against his cheek as she broke away from him. Kane's skin was set on fire at the very touch of her lips on him.

There were some seconds of awkward silence as both Allison and Kane fought against whatever pushed them towards each other...

Kane broke the silence as he composed himself, "Allison, about what happened in the garden with Meg, please let me explain."

"It doesn't matter Kane. That's none of my business, and I was just upset after speaking with Tisiphone. I thought I needed someone other than my father to talk to." She kept her eyes locked in his trying to sound convincing.

"No. Allie I do need you to hear me out."

"Like I said, it's not my business Kane. Look I should go. It's not proper for me to be alone with you. Albert will completely lose it if he knows I'm here alone with you." She turned her eyes to the door.

"Please. Allison. Wait." He took her delicate hand in his. With his free hand, he took her by the chin and locked her into his gaze. Silence followed as she fought the impulse to lean in and surrender to him, while he tried to calm the sea of confusion that was inside him.

"I should go. I'm glad you're better Kane. Good bye." He felt as if a part of him was being torn apart as she turned the knob to leave him and felt an urgency to keep her close.

"Allie. Wait."

"What is it Kane?"

"Thank you Allison for dropping by, you have no idea how much it means to know you care." He hugged her as if it was for the last time.

Allison could only smile because if she dared opened her mouth, it would unleash the truth... She was falling in love with him.

"Allison do you love him?"

"Why do you ask?" She couldn't look him in the eyes just then. She really wanted to shout at him, confessing: "NO! I love you, although you have chosen Meg over me. I don't blame you she's beautiful, everything I would like to be for you!" Instead, she fought to stay in control of herself.

"I'm just curious." The words were almost a soft whisper. With every word Kane spoke, a light green mist came pouring out from his lips making its way into Allison's eyes, nose, and mouth. Visions of Kane making love to her flooded her mind and her body automatically responded with a wave of pleasure run through her entire body and she collapsed into his strong arms.

"Allison! What's wrong?" Feeling her limp body in his arms, Kane began to panic, not knowing what had just happened.

"Help! I need help in here!"

## Chapter Six

After a few hours of absolute chaos... Kane had repeated countless times what had happened shortly before Allison's sudden fainting spell. First to Lucio, then Ambrose and the five brothers, then to the charming "nobody" Albert of Aisle. Thankfully, in her private chambers, she awoke shortly after, surrounded by her brothers and father looming over her like some strange specimen. Lucio and Kane painfully waited outside.

"Allie. How's my darling daughter?" King Ambrose smiled but his piercing stare searched for answers to his unspoken questions.

"Hello, father. Hey guys." Allison slowly sat up.

"Care to explain what happened?" Ambrose looked at her suspiciously.

"I don't know what you mean."

"First Kane and now you. Who's next?" He said in a loud chuckle, raising his right eyebrow.

"All I remember was..." Her eyes looked to the left trying to recall what had happened. "I was checking up on Kane, we were talking and then I felt dizzy." Allison conveniently left out the details of the strong sexual impulses she had felt toward Kane, and the visions that flashed before her eyes of what it could be like between them.

"I'm fine. Don't worry about me. I'm fine!" Allison looked at each of the men in her life, straight in the eyes as a sign of reassurance.

"Alright Allison. Just checking." Her father walked away but his face gave away his uneasiness.

"Should we kick Kane's butt? He's obviously interested in you since he arrived and now you're E-N-G-A-G-E-D." Sirius said in a mocking tone. He stood there, knowing full well that she was desperately trying to hide her growing feelings for Kane. Her interest in Kane was obvious to him, and although he didn't know the details of what had happened between them, he knew Allison had come away upset.

"No. I think you should pick Kane over mister high and mighty." Mei walked like an overstuffed peacock and lifted his nose with his forefinger as he made his best impersonation of Albert.

"He's way cooler, better looking and—"

"So why don't you ask him out then." Sirius said laughing.

"Shut-up. I'm just saying he's a better choice that's all." Mei shrugged his shoulders and gave an annoyed look to Sirius.

"Yeah. I don't really like Albert that well either." Saiph said with an expression much like he smelled something rotten.

"Besides, Kane is more-what's the word?" Orion paced about as he continued; "Sociable, better looking, a way better match for you- AND he's actually taken the time to get to know each of us- AND has become our friend. Albert on the other hand behaves as though we are beneath him or something of that nature. He's really arrogant. Kane feels like a better candidate. Let's not forget that he beat us at our own game too." Orion laughed as he recalled the training session.

"He kicked our royal behinds with such grace it was the most fun I've had in a long time. He also has my vote," Rigel chimed in as he pealed an apple with his knife.

"I did say you two remind me of a younger version of me and your mother and look at the wonderful children we made together." Ambrose whispered in her ear before kissing her forehead. "It's not too late to call it off you know, and Kane will be leaving soon."

Allison just smiled as she saw her brothers and father show their appreciation and affection for Kane. Thoughts of what flashed before her fainting spell filled her again and she made a choice right then and there—Albert was not going to like it but he was going to have to get over it!

## Chapter Seven

"These new weapons have been fashioned by very dear friends, dedicated sword crafters and warriors of The Living Woods. If at any time you need assistance for any reason just pierce the earth with its blade and a warrior will come to your aid. They will know why you call upon them even before you summon them. They have never failed me." As she spoke, her lips did not move as she paced with elegance and grace—all eyes on her.

"As for you dear Bellum, I've brought you some ancient scrolls that speak of spells, enchantments, and incantations from the ancient sorcerers that were thought to have been lost to superstition and folklore. I know you will enjoy them, but I feel I will need to warn you that you too will need training in these and other weapons."

"Thank you my lady. The more knowledge I acquire the better warrior I become. I will welcome any teacher you suggest." Bellum bowed deep and his eyes sparkled as they came to the scrolls.

"These new weapons, do they have some type of connection with the elements like the others you gave us?" Orion inspected the hilt and the blade of the swords as it twirled in his hand. He then began to read the inscription in his native angelic tongue.

"I will make sure you are taught all there is to know of these new weapons; your teachers are due to arrive at sunrise. I suggest you rest, they are known for their attention to detail and perfection." She let out a light chuckle knowing what awaited everyone. "See you all at sunrise." She bowed in their direction and as she began to walk away, she vanished in a mist.

At sunrise everyone gathered at the very spot where Lady Gaia had stood only hours before. Allison was in a pinkish-purple colored training suit with hints of gold around the collar and sleeves. Her hair was held up with two lovely auburn waves flowing down around her flawless face. Kane stood in the corner of the group leaning against a tree, silently watching while lost in his own mind babble... "Meg is beautiful, strong and incredibly unpredictable." The kiss that they shared pulsed in his lips and ran though his body with a mind of its own. His senses were overloaded briefly; revisiting the deep abyss of pleasure he had felt as Meg's lips caressed his. On the other hand, there was Allison, also enchantingly beautiful, strong-willed, and surprisingly sweet. Could he be meant to love both in one lifetime, or was he destined to choose one over the other? His heart was surprisingly silent. His mind raced to answer his questions while his body was still reacting to the memory of Meg's kiss.

"Kane? Hey, are you ready? Lady Gaia and your father are on their way down." Sirius waved his hand across Kane's face before shoving his elbow in his ribs.

"Yeah. I'm here." Kane blinked and turned to face the group. He found himself looking into blank faces from the guys, while Tisiphone and Alecto raised their perfectly shaped eyebrows at him as if they knew exactly what was going through his mind.

Allison glanced at him briefly before turning her attention to the three approaching the group. Meg sat not far from her warrior sisters her back toward the group deep in meditation—her sleek hair moved in a gentle breeze that caressed her gorgeous pixie-like face. A smile crept upon her as she sensed the presence of very old friends.

"Good you're all here." Lady Gaia stood before the group in her version of a training suit—her bare shoulders were silky and tanned like the rest of her body, and the entire suit was made of green and brown leaves that somehow appeared alive while clinging to her every curve like a second skin. Her hair was chestnut brown, curly and shoulder length; her eyes were a rich light golden brown, while her eyebrows looked menacingly flirtatious.

Lucio stood next to the Earth Goddess in a copper colored training suit with a sword hanging lightly on his right hip, and a short staff in his left hand.

Standing in an oversized dark cloak, on the other side of the Earth Goddess, was the small visitor. The group of young warriors gathered together just a few feet from the three elder warriors and politely bowed and greeted them—eyes fixed on the little stranger.

"Let me introduce you all to my very dear friends and fellow warriors." Lady Gaia gestured with her hand, palm up in the direction of the hooded stranger. "This is Elana, Nili, and Sadie; Princesses from the Living Woods." As Lady Gaia spoke their names, two identical figures stepped out from the mysterious warrior.

"Always a pleasure to meet more friends of our Lady Goddess." They bowed respectfully before everyone—their voices were melodious, rich and seductive. As they removed their hoods and looked around at the group before them, everyone let out an inaudible gasp.

"Nymphs?" Mei was the first to speak as his eyes explored the three glorious creatures that stood before him. Their sun-kissed smooth skin was stretched across their small faces like a magnificent landscape. Perfectly shaped eyebrows were the majestic mountains that partially framed their almond shaped eyes. Their faunlike ears gave away their earthy connection and origins. In the center of their faces laid regal petite noses followed by provoking, semi full lips. As his eyes continued to explore their physical bodies, it was almost impossible not to fall in awe at these glorious creatures of Nature.

"In a word? Yes." Elana answered him with a small curtsy.

"Wait. If you're from the Living Woods, you can't only be female tree spirits. The kingdom is known for great warriors; protectors of Nature among the most legendary Ilan and Oren who are said to be the future kings of The Living Woods." Mei's mouth had run off without his permission causing everyone present to turn in his direction; he just smiled sweetly silently apologizing for his outburst.

"I'm sure my brothers will be happy to hear that their names are still legendary among the kingdoms surrounding our own." She bowed in respect and saluted them in her native tongue, "We, much like your Fury friends, pride ourselves in keeping a low profile— keeping our origins and existence a secret."

"What are your brothers called? They can't be addressed as Nymphs because of the very definition of the word." Once again, Mei's curiosity got the better of him.

"We don't address them in any other name but their own and as future kings of the Living Woods. Elana stated matter-of-factly to Mei, who was captivated by her. "You will find that many legends and myths are incomplete or meant to mislead all of those who hear them. We are simply creatures of Nature." The three lovely Nymphs looked to the Earth Goddess, and smiled tenderly as she continued, "Created to protect and enrich this planet with the beautiful gift of life in all its wondrous forms."

"Shall we begin?" Sadie looked at each of their students until coming to Kane's face and stopped to study him. "This is my son, Kane." Lucio gestured with his right hand and a warm smile on his face.

"A pleasure, I'm sure." Elana reached out to take his hand, as their skin touched she felt the power he harnessed inside him like a sleeping volcano. "You have great potential dear Kane. Like your father before you, there will come the time and place where your true essence will be tested and a choice will have to be made that will shape the very world we live in. I am honored to have you as one of our pupils for there are no coincidences despite what many might think. "Sadie glanced over to her left as she felt a strong aura flare from Allison. "We look forward to seeing how you all do with the new weapons."

"Megaera. Tisiphone. Alecto. It's been a millennium since our last encounter. Simultaneously, they all agreed, "Yes. It has." They exchanged bows, salutes, and smiles.

The group was divided into three clusters of students—one for each princess. Everyone was scattered in what seemed a random order. Sadie's group: Kane, Bellum, Tisiphone, Meissa and Saiph. Nili's group: Allison, Sirius, Alecto, Lucio, and Duncan. Elana's group: Meg, Orion, Nikolai, Rigel and Lady Gaia, (Earth Goddess.)

One on one they practiced the different maneuvers that the three lovely Nymphs demonstrated while breaking down the step-by-step instructions. Every movement appeared more and more like a beautiful dance. The weapons seemed to recognize each individual and had a remarkable way of adapting in shape, size, and weight. With every maneuver, each one vibrated with extraordinary power as it glistened in the early morning sun.

"Soon it will become like second nature and you will all become foes to be feared and admired. For the next lessons, we will be pairing you off and you will all need to study each other's attack and defense strategies. The more you know of each other the better you will become as a whole. Our Lady Goddess has great faith in each of you and we trust that you will all reach your true potential." Sadie addressed the exhausted group after what seemed like ages of instruction, demonstrations, and exercises. The three princesses smiled at each of them clearly impressed by their abilities and dedication for the art of war.

"Until tomorrow. May your minds, bodies, and spirits rest and grow in wisdom, knowledge, and power." As the three lovely Nymphs spoke, they stepped into one, bowed, and stepping next to Lady Gaia, they disappeared along with the Goddess.

"Well that was fun! I trust you all need your rest so I'll be off. Kane son are you coming?" Lucio brought his hands together and glanced at the excited group of young warriors.

"You go ahead father I will stay behind for a bit longer." Kane bowed his head and bid him farewell.

The group began dispersing; Tisiphone, Duncan, and Nikolai laughed their way into the garden. Alecto and Bellum excused themselves and walked off through the trees in giggles and whispers. Allison and her brothers talked among themselves as they too walked off into the castle leaving Kane practicing off to one side. He was determined to gain an upper hand for the following day. He saw Meg lost in meditation under the canopy of a nearby tree and smiled as he formulated his words carefully.

"You know, if you wanted to be left alone with me, you could have just asked." Kane glided over to Meg, a little short of breath but with an adorable smile on his handsome face.

"Hmm. Kane what is it?" Meg sat there motionless.

"What do you mean?"

"You're here to tell me something, so just say it."

"I'm confused, or rather divided."

"Yeah. I know, you feel attracted to Allison as she is to you." Meg opened her green eyes and turned to look into his. "And you're not completely sure where you stand with me either." She let out a cute chuckle then continued, "So just give it time Kane. It's not like you need to make a choice today. Ask yourself this, how do you feel around Allison? Meg was looking at him intrigued by his sincerity.

"When I'm around her I feel—he ran his hand through his perfect hair before he continued, "peaceful, I feel physically attracted to her _but_ I'm attracted to you as well. It's like my heart and mind are not in tune with one another. Ugh! Damn it! I want both of you and that's not fair to either of you. I'm sorry I'm not making sense, you must take me for a fool." Kane turned his back towards her, took a few steps towards the nearest tree, and leaned his head on it.

"Love does that to all of us." She walked towards him and put her hand on his shoulder.

"Allison is a fine young woman and only time will help clear the confusion you now feel. Whatever your choice, know this: I will always be there to aid you and Allison, should you ever need my help." Meg reached for his hand and brought it over her heart as she spoke. She knew exactly what Kane felt because her heart was equally divided between two loves as well.

Her smile was radiant, her beautiful eyes somehow became more alive, and they gave off a shimmer much like a heavenly star. Kane felt her heart beat and somehow his heart began to beat in tune with hers. Her touch set his senses on fire and as he looked into her beautiful olive green eyes his soul cried out to him to reach for her and never let go.

"I know where I stand with you, that's not the problem." Kane reached for her chin locking her in his gaze. "I'm attracted to you like a magnet, like life is to water; it's like you were made to be by my side. I feel awake, truly ALIVE with you. I've never felt like this before about anyone."

Kane closed the gap between them and kissed her. It was as though fireworks exploded in their skin once again and with every touch it heightened the pleasure and need for each other. Meg delighted in knowing that Kane wanted her as much as she wanted him. With each kiss, the passion became more and more intense; Kane ran his fingers in her silky hair, desperate to calm the hunger for her touch and the thirst for her lips. An interruption came in the form of whistling arrows that caught Meg's attention, followed by distant chattering. She pulled away from Kane.

"We're not alone. Someone is coming." She let out a sigh, "It's Duncan and Nikolai. I should go." Meg took a few steps away from Kane but Kane pulled her back and held her in a tight embrace. "No, don't go, the interruption can be easily dealt with." Kane said, as his lips sought hers.

"What do you suggest we do, hide?" Meg laughed and gave him a charming smile. "No, I have something better in mind." He pulled her close and a dark mist began to form around them, instantaneously teleporting them to his chambers.

## Chapter Eight

"Today as promised we will pair you off with a partner and you must try to become acquainted with his or her fighting technique. Defend yourselves wisely and don't hold back; although this is only an exercise, you must always give it your all. Now choose your weapons wisely. The first pair will be Alecto and Bellum. You must all observe each other and learn as much as you can." Elana spoke as she paced in front of the group observing them.

"This promises to be fun." Princess Nili raised her eyebrow at her sibling.

"Indeed." Sadie glanced in Kane's direction and then added, "What's life without a little drama?"

Nili turned to also look in Kane's direction and sighed deeply before giggling, "Men ALWAYS equal drama."

Alecto chose her weapon; a long staff with symbols along the ends of it that appeared to be written in an ancient tongue. As she twirled it in her hands, it came alive, becoming ablaze in blinding golden flames.

"Bellum choose your weapon and begin." Elana gestured to the collection of weapons that lay out before the group.

"But I don't know how to use any of these."

"Learn. You may find yourself in a situation where it requires something more than your hands sorcerer." Nili wasn't fond of sorcery. It was a dishonorable way to live in her book; being able to bewitch the senses and fight with treachery was as foul as it was blasphemous. If she had her way, she would either teach him to be a proper warrior or simply destroy him.

"I can't fight if I am not permitted to use sorcery. I don't know how to wield a sword." Bellum said it with frustration and anger in his voice.

"Very well Alecto, do you wish to wait for Bellum to be trained or shall we pair you with someone else?" Nili looked as though Bellum was an annoying insect she could just barely tolerate.

"I'll wait." She smiled at both of them and with one swift elegant movement, set her weapon down before the Nymph's feet. She then walked over to Bellum and kissed him lightly on the lips.

"If you wish to learn, I would be honored and delighted to instruct you with all that I know." Bellum's response was a huge smile as he bowed his head and reached for her delicate hands.

"Thank you." He looked down at their hands- his eyes full of shame.

"Bellum, there's nothing to be ashamed of my love. The more you know, the more valuable you become. I love you, that's never going to change. Now come on."

Orion and Tisiphone began the training session as they moved with flowing effortless ease. Duncan was paired up with Meg and their face-off was fantastic. They held nothing back as they tried to bring each other down with strong kicks and fierce punches. Duncan's arrows whistled as they cut through the air. Everyone observed and the garden was filled with "oohs and ah's," as they were completely in awe of the combat that played out before them.

"So have you made a choice as to where your heart lies?" Duncan tried to read her but she was focused on the task at hand—her beauty was unsurpassed and exquisite as always, he thought to himself.

"I wish it would be that easy of a decision to make. I have loved you since forever and I still love you that has not changed." Meg appeared and disappeared as she attacked him from all directions at once, almost bringing him to his knees. Duncan managed to make contact a few times, striking the Fury on the chest and lower back.

"Then I will be forever patient until you come back to me." He looked at her in a mixture of love and pain as she came at him once again. For an instant, he felt as though he was losing her. The pain it caused to think he would lose her to Kane was harsh. He knew Kane would never love her as he did.

Meg knocked Duncan down with a powerful blow to the chest. Everything suddenly went black and pain seized Duncan. Meg ran to him almost panicking—she expected him to block her strike like he always did while they trained together, but he didn't. He laid face down, his bow and arrow beside him.

"Duncan! Are you all right? I'm so very sorry Duncan! Duncan?" As she turned him to face her, he was unconscious and bleeding from his eyes, nose, and mouth and his shirt had burst open baring his horribly bruised chest. Meg froze.

"Step aside Megaera. We will heal him." Elana quickly put her hands on his wounded body and from her hands flowed pure visible energy that sank into his skin and almost immediately healed him.

"We will continue your training tomorrow. You are all dismissed." Everyone was speechless and like a herd of docile animals, went their way without uttering a single word. "Meg, please stay. We would like to speak to you and your sisters in private." As Elana spoke, she wiped Duncan's blood from his face and then continued, "Please help us take Duncan to his chambers."

"As you wish." The Furies answered in unison. Meg felt like she was going to shatter to pieces as the guilt sank in; her eyes fought back tears as she helped carry Duncan's unconscious body to his room.

"Meg. It was an accident. Don't worry too much, he'll be fine." Tisiphone didn't have to look at Meg to feel her pain. Meg tried to answer her but the words got stuck in her throat as the tears began to flow down her cheeks—transparent drops of fear, guilt, and pain burned her as they silently screamed out for Duncan—what if he died? What then? Her heart felt as if it were dying at the thought of losing Duncan. Every moment that they had shared together flashed before her eyes like lightning flashes; each like slaps across her face.

Upon arriving at Duncan's door Meg asked to be left alone with him and sent for Nikolai. Not another word was spoken as each of the Nymphs and Furies left the room in silence. Nikolai appeared at the door as Meg was undressing Duncan. Her face was washed of all emotion and was paler than usual. Nikolai bathed him, changed his clothes and laid his body down on the bed. Neither of them could tear their eyes off Duncan.

Apart from the rising and falling of his chest, there was no other visible movement—he just laid there motionless—Nikolai could see Meg from the corners of his eyes; she was silently drowning in fear, her heart beating weaker and weaker as the weight of her conscience pressed down on her.

## Chapter Nine

Duncan's senses slowly came back to him; his strength was almost at a critical state. His eyelids felt so heavy he could barely open them and his body felt all tingly and strange, but the excruciating pain in his chest was almost gone.

His ears heard the soft hum of Nikolai and Bellum talking just above a whisper, he strained to put together what they were saying, but he couldn't make out the conversation.

"Well I feel terrible about the whole thing. Poor Megaera. We all know she did not mean to hurt him. It could happen to anyone." As Bellum spoke, he shook his head in disbelief.

"I know she would never mean to cause any of us harm, but the fact is that it happened whether she intended it or not." Nikolai said through his teeth feeling frustrated and a bit angry. He frowned before continuing, "Duncan is recovering rapidly and he will soon be on his feet once again. Right now that's all that matters."

"I can't help but to think how I would feel if I were training with Alecto and I'd hurt her." Bellum ran his fingers through his face and hair, letting out a frustrated sigh, "I wouldn't be able to forgive myself. I love her too much."

"Why can't you speak a little louder so I can put my two cents in as well?" Duncan's voice sounded hoarse and strained.

"It's nothing to be too concerned about. You rest, you NEED to rest and get better." Nikolai walked over to his best friend's bedside and helped him sit up.

"I'm alright. After all it was just a girl, no harm done."

"You forget it was a Fury who kicked your butt and left you bloody, bruised and unconscious." Nikolai's mouth had run away from him again. He subconsciously brought his right hand over his mouth forcing his lips shut. He looked from Bellum to Duncan and back again. Bellum lifted his right eyebrow and dropped his glance to his hands letting out a quiet chuckle. There was a deafening silence for a few seconds as their eyes bounced between them. The silence was abruptly broken by three bursts of loud laughter.

"I will let everyone know you're awake and haven't lost your sense of humor!" Nikolai left the room swiftly and quietly.

Soon enough Duncan found himself surrounded by his friends joking and talking as if nothing had happened. Duncan looked around the room searching for Meg.

"Meg is not here. The three Furies and Kane stayed in the yard talking with the Nymphs." Mei smiled shyly and then looked away as he continued, "Megaera is devastated with what happened."

Meg fought back tears as she thought of what could have happened if Elana wouldn't have acted as quickly as she had. As a fury, she was capable of healing others but she froze when she saw Duncan's injuries. What was worse was the knowledge that she was the one responsible.

"I should have been more careful. It was just an exercise and I almost killed him."

"Sister, we are Furies. War is in our blood, fighting is second nature to us. You cannot blame yourself for an accident." Alecto grabbed her hand and looked deep into Meg's green eyes.

"A terrible accident, but an accident just the same. Don't worry about it, he is recovering and will soon be on his feet. Besides you were not in full battle mode which means it could have been much worse." Tisiphone hugged Meg and squeezed her hard.

"We will see how Duncan is doing, we'll be right back. Come on Alecto let's go." The two Furies elegantly walked away looking much like two small children skipping away to play.

Kane walked over to Meg and held her silently. He somehow couldn't find the words to comfort her.

"I can't believe I almost killed him." Meg closed her eyes and almost began to cry. He hugged her with so much love it was magical. Kane took in a long slow breath and whispered into her right ear, "This is where you and I belong, in each others' arms." This was his truth, his reality and his future.

"It's going to be alright, my love. Everything will be alright." Kane kissed her then—he could feel the rawness of her sadness and pain and he didn't understand why—Kane was blindly unaware of the history that Meg and Duncan shared.

She had been with Duncan since before coming to Ambrose and his family. She loved him, and he loved her beyond reason.

Duncan healed at an alarming speed and began asking for Meg as soon as he was able to sit up independently. When she finally found the courage to visit, she sat at the edge of his bed unable to look at him.

"Meg. Hey. Look at me." Duncan took her by her hands and pulled her into him.

"Duncan, I'm deeply sorry. I-I never meant to hurt you." Her head rested on his chest and as she heard his rhythmic heart, she fought against all the sadness and guilt that quickly surfaced and overwhelmed her.

"Don't be sorry. It was just an accident and partially my fault for letting my guard down. You distracted me." He ran his forefinger down her perfect nose and kissed her forehead. "You always have."

"Duncan, I could have killed you." Meg looked down at her hands in the brink of tears; she let out a quiet sigh as she breathed the familiarity of his body, his scent, the warmth of the love that they shared for centuries. She could never imagine a life without him; he had become an integral part of her, which meant that losing him was never an option.

"Hmm. Hey, how about a kiss to make up for humbling my ego and kicking my butt in front of an audience? You know I'll never hear the end of it from the guys." He let out a fake and frustrated sigh then continued, "Especially Nikolai." He reached for her chin and held her in his gaze waiting for her to respond. He knew she would take him to a blissful place with just one long, passionate kiss.

"I don't need an excuse to kiss you Duncan." Meg smiled as she looked up at him.

"Is that a yes then?" As he bent down for a kiss, his heart and mind raced with anticipation. He missed her lips and the feel of her velvety skin. She was his best friend and his first love. As she was about to kiss him, she sensed a powerful aggressive presence.

Kane stood at the opened door. When he saw Duncan reaching for a kiss from Meg, he cleared his throat so loud it sounded more like a ferocious growl, while tiny explosions of color appeared in his eyes.

"Meg there you are. I've been looking for you. Hi Duncan." He tried to sound nonchalant, but his eyes gave away the jealousy he felt at the very thought of Meg kissing someone other than him.

"She belongs to me. And only to me." Kane thought to himself with so much fierceness and power that his body almost came ablaze.

"No. She does not. She belongs to no one. " Duncan's voice echoed softly in a gentle breeze around Kane.

## Chapter Ten

"Alright Bellum you certainly have improved one hundred and ten percent. Well done!" Elana clapped as the encounter between Alecto and Bellum came to an end. Everyone joined in and shouted congratulations to Bellum.

"Excellent my dashing gentleman. I suppose I can rest easier knowing you have my back." Alecto took his weapons smiling from ear to ear.

"Thanks to you my lady. I couldn't have done this without you." Bellum bowed his head but his eyes never left hers. "We'll have to celebrate our success with something special."

Alecto just giggled and hugged him excitedly.

"Lastly, we ask that Allison and Meg take the floor. You ladies have trained with everyone except each other. You must all work to fight, defend, and act as one. That is the only way you will overcome anything that may lie ahead.

"Ladies?" Nili looked at her sibling Sadie almost giggling in delight.

"This will be one for the books! Two women fighting for the affection of one man." Sadie whispered to Elana.

"Indeed, but dear sister you fail to see that there is more than that here." Elana glanced in the direction of the group; her gaze staying on Duncan and Kane who stood next to each other looking straight at Meg.

"If you say so elder sister, nevertheless, I will enjoy this immensely." Sadie made a dismissing gesture as she walked toward the two young rivals and said barely above a whisper, "Make this memorable ladies, fight as though you fight to obtain what you know is already yours." As she spoke, she looked directly over to where Kane was standing; and with an eerie smile on her face, she stepped away to witness the encounter.

The two rivals stood facing each other weapons drawn and looking into each others' eyes.

"Ready Allison?" Meg smiled and shook her head at the Nymph dismissing the words that she had spoken. Allison felt a constricting force wrapping itself around her, followed by a sharp bite on her neck that burned into her skin, filing her with a strange sensation that took over.

"Are you?" Allison's face became hard, expressionless, and surprisingly scary. She began to circle the Fury as though she was hunting her.

"Allison, what are you doing? Don't do this. The Nymph is only trying to use us for her entertainment. Her words are meaningless." All Meg's senses screamed something was dreadfully wrong and danger was encircling her. Her nature was taking over, but if she listened, she could very well kill Allison. Furies never left anything alive. Meg literally fought against her nature to attack Allison.

"I think you're scared to get your pretty little ass kicked." Allison had clearly lost her mind and Meg was going to have to deal with this version of her.

Meg glanced over to Sadie and took a moment to study her as Allison circled her for the last time. Meg's eyes lit up and her body began to turn almost invisible—blue and silver traces in her skin surfaced, pouring down her entire body, encasing it in beautiful body armor.

"Dorian." She spat the name like a curse from her lips. Before she could run toward where Sadie was sitting Allison attacked her with two glistening silver scimitars. And so it began, Allison came at her with infernal anger that intensified each blow. Meg blocked each blow effortlessly but without striking back, keeping her eyes focused on Sadie. Everyone stood frozen, unable to move while forced to stand and watch.

The five brothers called out to each other telepathically in alarm. Not one was able to move or break that which immobilized them completely.

Duncan and Kane fought against the grip that held them. Duncan brought his thoughts to a standstill and forced his eyes shut trying to focus. Calling the three fire elements within him he began to burn a whole through the magical veil that draped over him.

Regaining control of his body, his eyes opened coming face to face with his attacker. The eyes of the snake that was coiled around his body were filled with anger as it attempted to subjugate Duncan with its piercing hypnotizing stare, but Duncan's glistening eyes had become a shield of impenetrable titanium. The snake began to move restlessly, fangs exposed, seeking an opportunity to insert venom into Duncan's neck as it snapped its jaws like a hungry beast. Each time it made contact with Duncan's skin, it was met with an intense heat that singed it. To the snake's dismay, the fire ravaged through it, and with a thunderous shriek, it exploded sending crystal ashes in every direction. Duncan's fiery aura pulsed as a warning to the countless snakes that saturated the trees above him, as well as the ones that held his friends captive.

"Nikolai, we're under attack. We need the Lady Goddess or Bellum. Go! I will try to help the others." Duncan tossed balls of fire in the direction of his best friend. The snake that held Nikolai hissed angrily, loosening its grip before slithering away up a nearby tree. Nikolai's aura came alive and blazed brightly as he ran toward the castle grounds, instantly burning the venomous pests that lunged toward him leaving a trail of crystal ashes.

Meanwhile, the two rivals' encounter raged on their movements were blurred. All that could be seen were the colorful sparks where the weapons came in contact with one another.

"Allison, please stop!" Meg made another attempt to reason with her, but it was useless.

"You don't know me!" The words came out of Allison's mouth but it was not her voice—it sounded distorted, dark and empty.

"Tisiphone, Alecto help me!" Meg looked to her sisters but found they were not there. This only heightened her suspicions that someone, or something terrible was afoot.

"Allison! Stop it!" Meg continued to be evasive, but she knew she would have to harm her in order to reach Dorian. Only then would Allison be released from whatever grip he had on her.

"Fight me! You worthless excuse of a warrior! Fight back or I will destroy you!" Allison kept coming relentlessly at Meg; hatred and anger surrounding her like a blanket tainting her beauty and grace.

Sadie sat with an evil look on her face, smiling, almost clapping while delighting in what was happening before her. Everyone else was in a trancelike state, unable to blink as their eyes followed the two warriors across the yard.

"Enough!!" Around Meg's hips, a belt appeared with a vast collection of transparent weapons. One swift brush of her hand and a transparent dagger jumped up and out, striking Sadie in the chest—her body began to shake and twitch until it dissolved to dark dust. Meg turned her attention to Allison expecting her to regain control of herself, but instead she continued attacking her; every strike stronger than the last.

Kane became irritated by the fact that Duncan was able to break free before him. He had been occupied with picking the brain of the serpent that held him, until realizing that the creatures were dumber than dirt. The transparent pest swayed happily from side to side, eyes bright and alert, awaiting his next command. He didn't really want to destroy it, but knew it was a mindless soldier, perhaps even a soulless puppet. He channeled his energy focusing his willpower on to the snake. A dark mist circled the snake before making it implode in a quiet poof. As he turned to search for Meg and Allison, he was violently rushed by dozens of snakes.

"Allison! Stop! I will hurt you if I must but I don't want to."

"B-ha! Ha! Ha1Ha!" Allison's laugh was filled with an evil presence that filled the air with arrogance and anger.

"Duncan!" Meg called out almost breathlessly.

"I'm here" In an instant he stood behind her and as he looked into Allison's face, he drew his weapon. "What's wrong with Allison?"

"I'm not sure. I can't see where it's coming from but it appears she's not fighting it at all." Meg wondered if this was a side of Allison that had always been there and until now was manifesting itself because of Kane.

"It seems you don't settle for just one. My, you are a naughty little Fury." Allison lunged her weapons with deadly force at Duncan's chest but Meg intercepted the blow with her sickle, shattering Allison's weapons to pieces.

"Duncan are you hurt?" Panic stricken, she turned to Duncan.

"It's just a graze. I'm fine."

"Let me see." Meg reached for Duncan turning her back on Allison. Her armor began to disappear slowly, uncovering her face, neck, chest, and arms like water flowing down her body. She wouldn't be able to bear watching him get hurt again. Not again, not ever.

"This is not over!" Allison attacked Meg once more, grabbing a set of swords as she ran toward her. Meg held on to Allison's right wrist stopping her in mid air.

"Allison! Stop! You're going to end up doing something either you'll regret or that gets you seriously hurt." Meg spoke with her back toward Allison, while her full attention was on Duncan.

Elana and Nili appeared suddenly and ran toward Allison and Meg with alarm clearly on their faces. Following behind them was Ambrose, Lucio, Lady Gaia, and Kane.

"Love makes you weak and careless Fury. Pity." A cold evil smile spread across Allison's face, making it look twisted and unnatural. With a hidden black dagger she held in her left hand, she pierced Meg's chest barely missing her heart. Meg gasped when she felt the sharp agonizing pain invading her left shoulder. Immediately the black ink that covered the dagger seeped into the open wound, sprinting within Meg's body through her veins, pooling around her heart and eyes.

As Meg pulled out the sword from her chest, her knees buckled and she fell into oblivion.

"No!" Alecto, Tisiphone, Duncan and Kane screamed in unison as they saw the dagger go through Meg's unarmored body.

Allison took several steps back, her eyes gleaming with satisfaction.

Duncan reached out catching Meg's body as she collapsed. Duncan looked down at Meg's limp body and felt his spirit stir within him. Her body was under attack! His princess had been wounded. Fire poured out from Duncan and into Meg like a spring of melted gold. Orange, red and golden flames inexorably pursued the evil invader. When Duncan finally tore his gaze from Meg he found himself surrounded by his fellow warriors.

"We call upon the healing waters of our ancestors. Humbly we ask for your flowing energy to pour out from within us." The two Furies' archaic summon brought immediate aid to their fallen sister. Their eyes grew bright as the traces of gold and silver came out from within their now almost transparent skin. Everyone stood in complete wonder as they saw water burst out of the two warriors containing a sea of liquid jade, it gathered in a living, flowing sphere that floated above their palms. It then divided itself in two and flew off like speeding birds. One rushed to the injured Fury, her body absorbing it instantly, soothing her pain while fighting against the sinister intruder that threatened to destroy her. The other orb crashed into Allison's stomach, knocking her violently into a nearby tree. Allison's body shook violently as she cried out in pain. Her head slumped forward; her hair covered her face leaving the back of her neck exposed. The dark distorted symbols that appeared to be burned into the back of her flesh fled the healing liquid that washed over her.

All the hatred and anger that clouded her judgment was gone and the reality of what she had done began to sink in. Her conscience slapped her raw and hard with guilt. Allison fell to her knees and wept.

## Chapter Eleven

"I can't explain it. We could see what was happening but we couldn't move." Mei shook his head and with a confused look on his face continued, "Allison moved so quick and powerful it was scary. Her face was terrifying, tainted with darkness. A darkness that was palpable and surrounding her like a shadow." Mei ran his fingers through his face still trying to process what he had witnessed, and continued, "I could barely hear what they were saying. All I could hear was Meg trying to reason with Allison as she spat insults at her."

Orion looked at his father nodding his head in agreement.

"Was Bellum there? Surely he can figure out how this happened." King Ambrose raised his voice in frustration.

"No. I wasn't there because I found Princess Sadie passed out as I was on my way to the training yard. She had been paralyzed and bound by spells that I've never encountered before." Bellum walked into the library with Alecto by his side. "It would have taken me longer if Nili and Elana wouldn't have aided me. The spells that imprisoned Princess Sadie were incredibly strong and ancient. Whatever it was that took her form knew a great deal about Nymphs and Allison. How else could all this chaos be possible?"

King Ambrose turned to each of his sons with a confused look on his face. Then, with the same quizzical expression, he turned to Bellum and Alecto.

"Don't worry your majesty, we will get to the bottom of this." Alecto glanced around the room and continued, "We won't lose to Darkness! We can't. Too much is at stake."

Kane barely looked up from the book he was so absorbed in reading until _her name_ was mentioned,

"How are Allison and _Meg_?" King Ambrose asked while he paced the room like a caged animal.

"Allison is being looked after by the three Nymphs and Lady Gaia. It appears she has not suffered any injuries. She's just slightly dazed." Tisiphone stated with relief. The symbols branded in her skin were a trademark of the Fallen One, over-turning the creatures' free will and imposing his own, turning them into puppets.

Kane held his breath as he waited for news regarding Meg's condition, watching Alecto from the corner of his eye.

"Meg?" King Ambrose directed his attention to Alecto, who was lost in her own world. She mentally ran through every little detail from the previous day; quietly analyzing, trying to see when, how, and where the intruder came from.

What was she missing, could there be a traitor among them? If so, who and why? Bellum gently nudged her side and called her name under his breath, bringing her back from her reverie.

"Uh, yes she is still unconscious but we expect her to wake up soon. The wound is healing. It appeared worse than it was. Duncan is watching over her now." Kane could not hide his surprise and looked up suddenly as his eyes burned with incredible intensity. " _That should be me at her side, not him_."

Time seemed to be at a standstill as Meg laid there in a deep sleep; her upper body laid wrapped in giant green leaves that clung to her like a second skin. The veins within the leaves grew bright like a stream of pulsing stars, quietly healing and soothing the wounded warrior with its immortal blood. Duncan sat at her side holding her hand, anxiously waiting for her to wake up. As he stared at her, all the memories they shared came rushing to his mind.

"Meg. I hope you can hear me. I _need_ you to wake up. I _want_ you to wake up." He paused as he tried to calm his heart from ripping out from his chest. "I love you. You're my best friend, my first and only love, the woman with whom I intend to spend the rest of eternity with. _Please wake up. Please_." Tears ran down his cheeks as he leaned down and kissed her. The kiss was soft but wasn't lacking in passion.

Meg opened her eyes feeling Duncan's lips on hers and smiled. She reached for him—her body felt like dead weight and excruciating pain took over like an unwelcome guest—her eyes filled with tears as she choked a scream in her throat.

"Welcome back." Duncan half smiled and set her back on the bed. "I will never leave your side again." Meg tried to speak but her voice was lost in the pain that overwhelmed her.

"Let me see." Duncan ran his fingers gently across her left shoulder. The leaf lifted baring Meg's nearly transparent skin, the wound appeared to be healed. Seeing her tempting silky skin, he leaned in and kissed her shoulder. "You'll be fine. You just need to rest." Wild spurts of energy ran from the spot where Duncan's lips had touched her skin.

"Thank you." It took all her strength to keep her voice from breaking.

"For what?"

"For being you." Against the pain that ran though her, she reached for Duncan and kissed him. Her gentle touch filled him with deep peace, his heart and soul felt whole once again. She let out a quiet moan resisting the urge to scream out in pain. Duncan brought her hands down and leaned toward her as their kiss deepened. Meg surrendered to the pleasure ignoring the roaring pain that ran savagely through her left shoulder. Duncan tore himself from her as he noticed Meg's body tremble with pain.

"Meg lay down. Relax. You're pushing yourself and this will not help you heal."

"I'm fine." She spoke through her teeth trying to mask away the pain.

"I dare to disagree with you dear Fury. Although you wish to ignore it, we can, and WILL continue this another time." He raised his right eyebrow and flashed his charming smile, making Meg feel a spark of warmth light up deep inside her heart. They held each other's gaze for a long moment. Their lips gravitated toward each other and as they were about to touch, a gentle knock was heard at the door.

"Everyone has been dropping by to check on you." Duncan spoke softly. Meg could feel, and almost taste Duncan's breath. "Come on in Kane, she's awake."

Kane walked in with Nikolai and Bellum trailing behind.

"Wow. You look-" Nikolai frowned as he searched for the right word.

"Like you're in a lot of pain." Bellum cut in finishing Nikolai's sentence and rolled his eyes and shook his head at him.

Meg just smiled at them but as her eyes came upon Kane, she sensed something was wrong. Kane met her gaze and smiled slowly, his eyes cried out to her. For her.

The days that followed, Meg found herself surrounded every minute of every day by her friends and fellow Furies, caring for her every need. Apparently, the culprit behind the dark poison inside the sword that pierced her skin knew exactly what he/she was doing. It took the collaboration of a Goddess, an army of Nymphs, and a powerful sorcerer to counteract its affects.

Kane waited to be alone with her but she was never left alone...Duncan was tattooed to her side.

Sitting under her favorite tree taking in the peaceful evening air, Meg closed her eyes and tried to imagine what she would say to Kane. Her mind a complete blank while her heart screamed to her not to leave Kane. Her body echoed the loud screams of her heart as she pictured Kane before her.

A soft bursting sound came from behind her. Meg felt a pair of strong arms wrap around her and the unmistakable breath of Kane on her neck.

"You have no idea how long I've waited for you to be alone." Kane tightened his hold on her and kissed her neck. "Kane there's something I need to tell you." She hesitated and then continued, "I'm leaving."

"Why? Where?" Kane turned her toward him.

"I need to decide what we must do to prepare for whatever it is that awaits us. What happened with Allison and Sadie is an enormous warning or preview of what Dorian is planning. We must be ready for anything."

"Can I come with you? I promise I won't be in the way, I can keep up with you three—"

"I'm going alone."

"Why?"

"There are other reasons for my decision. Here I cannot focus, there are too many distractions."

"Is that what I am to you?" Kane felt his heart fill with sadness and pain at the thought.

"Of course not Kane."

"Then let me come with you. I will watch over you." Kane kissed her with all the energy that he held within him. She was filled with the fervor of his kiss and it almost left her breathless. She was able to utter a gentle pardon, "I will be back soon and I think we need time apart."

"Why? Because of Duncan? Kane's posture stiffened as he confessed his jealousy. "You think I don't know that he's interested in you? I can see it with every gesture and look he gives you." Kane walked a few paces away from Meg and ran his fingers through his hair in frustration—his eyes became dark and bottomless as anger threatened to overcome him. Deep inside, he knew that anyone would fall in love with her and it made him crazy to think that she was going to go off on her own.

"Meg. I love you. I want to be with you forever."

"If you are certain about your feelings for me then a little time should not change anything. Kane you must decide for yourself whom you choose to love and mate with for life. After all, it will forever change your life." Meg reached for him and kissed him as if it were for the very last time.

Once again, Kane's skin experienced the Fury's fire.

A single tear came down her right cheek as she tore herself from him.

"Good bye Kane."

## Chapter Twelve

"Well, we all can rest and enjoy the rest of our stay with King Ambrose. You have all done extremely well. I speak for all three of us when I say, each of you will surely reach your potential effortlessly and the world will be a better place with you in it." Elana smiled endearingly to each of them as she spoke. "Our Lady will continue the remaining of your training which is meant to help you polish your technique and manner of execution. We bid you farewell." The three lovely Nymphs came together into one and vanished before another word was spoken.

"I can't believe she's gone." Kane looked toward Meg's favorite meditation spot.

"She said she needed to be alone. With all that has happened, I can't say I wouldn't want to do the same, given the circumstances." Alecto turned to Tisiphone as she spoke to Kane.

"I should be with her." Kane's eyes showed the sadness and emptiness he felt in her absence.

"She didn't allow any of us to go with her." Tisiphone spoke softly, looking down as if she was ashamed.

"She will return soon. She just needs to be alone. The last time she went off on her own it was after the death of her brother Alexander."

"I didn't know she had a brother." Kane frowned with concern.

"Yes well, it's a sad and complicated story. Perhaps someday, she'll tell you about it. It's not ours to tell."

"Hmm. Maybe I should go and find her. I'm sure I can convince her to come back, or at least be there for her."

"NO!" Alecto and Tisiphone shouted in unison. They looked at each other guiltily—they knew she would never really be alone—Duncan had sworn to keep her safe and he always fulfilled his oaths. Wherever Duncan was Nikolai and Bellum were not too far behind. "We must respect her wishes."

"Why? She needs someone for support." Kane tried to sound convincing, but his little smirk gave away his intentions.

"Uh-huh! Right." Tisiphone raised her eyebrow and rolled her eyes at him as a sign of: "I know what you're thinking."

"Where are the guys?" Kane changed the subject.

"Huh?" The two Furies looked at each other for a brief moment.

"You know Bellum, Duncan and Nikolai?"

"Oh, they went off on a hunting exercise." Tisiphone looked at Alecto briefly before turning her attention on Kane.

"Why do I feel you are keeping something from me?" Kane walked over and stood between them, looking at them with curiosity.

"Kane what could we possibly be keeping from you?"

"You know something you're not sharing. For your sake, I hope it's nothing major. I'll be off, if you need anything or decide to tell me whatever 'IT' is I'll be in the library." In an instant, he was gone.

"Perhaps we should tell him about Duncan and Meg's personal history. He may—"

"Are you insane Alecto? That is dangerous territory. Besides Meg should be the one to tell him if she desires to do so. I have a feeling no matter what happens she will end up hurt."

## Chapter Thirteen

In the library, Kane somehow sensed danger whenever he thought of Meg; but his body relived every moment he had spent with her until then; every touch, every kiss. So, as a distraction, he began to spend most of his time reading scrolls, and books then applying his newfound knowledge to his technique.

Kane began to change, mature, and form into a most powerful and enticing warrior. In the hours of early morning, he would sit where Meg liked to meditate trying to esoterically reconnect with her in her absence.

"Hello Kane. I didn't expect to find you here." Lady Gaia approached Kane with a smile on her flawless face.

"Hello, Earth Goddess. I often come here to—" A bright and enchanting smile spread on his face at the very thought of Meg.

"Yes. It is a lovely and relaxing view to behold, especially at these hours of the day. I must say the mist and energy of the trees invigorate the soul. If you're ever hurt, seek out a place such as this one and you will find that your body will be restored and refreshed in a wink."

"Thank you for the insight Lady Gaia. Surely I will never forget it." Kane kept his eyes on the very spot where Meg usually sat.

"Just so you know Kane, she trusts you will make your own mind in time. She wants you to decide for yourself; even if it means she's at risk of losing you."

"You know about us?"

"Yes. I tried to keep her from leaving, but she is..." The gorgeous Goddess smiled with admiration and then continued, "Well, Meg."

"How long have you known?" Kane's smile was radiant and proud. He wanted to shout from the rooftops that she belonged to him and only him.

"Since the day you two kissed in the midst of my children." As she said "children," she gestured to the trees that surrounded them. The air was filled with cracking sounds and soft giggles. Kane flashed his most charming smile and raised his right eyebrow as he admittedly chuckled.

## Chapter Fourteen

Meg arrived at the Living Woods swifter than lightning. As she approached the entrance, the trees around her began to tremble and hum with quiet sounds of crackling bark. The wave of crackling sounds got closer and louder as the trees unwrapped from within releasing their guardians. Within seconds, she was surrounded by Nature's essence in its purest form—Nymphs. Two tanned and incredibly handsome young men stepped out from the sea of Nymphs. Meg felt serenity pour over her as she gazed upon Prince Ilan who offered a warm and welcoming glance with his gorgeous Caribbean-blue eyes.

"Always a pleasure to see you Megaera." Prince Ilan came to greet her with a hug and a light kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you for having me, the pleasure is mine." Meg bowed her head and smiled.

"Hey there." Oren suddenly appeared beside his brother, arms extended.

"Prince Oren. It is wonderful to see you."

"Yes, I know. You love me." He let out a loud chuckle and reached for her, trapping her in a snug embrace. As their skin touched, Meg was overcome with raw strength. His invigorating touch ran wildly atop her velvety skin.

"You're not alone?"

"Yes, I am. Tisiphone and Alecto stayed behind." Meg's voice sounded forceful as she struggled to breath.

"No my dear, you are not alone." Oren turned her around as Duncan, Bellum, and Nikolai appeared from behind the trees. Duncan smiled shyly as his eyes locked with hers.

"Of course." Meg sighed and then smiled at Prince Oren.

"Surprise!" Nikolai smiled as he turned his attention to Duncan and then continued,

"You know Duncan, once he swears an oath..."

"Hello boys. "Meg said in a deep sigh.

"Well then, welcome all of you. Please follow me" Elana appeared from behind her brothers with a huge warm grin on her beautiful face. "You're timing Fury, is flawless as always." They walked into the deep woods as the trees parted, revealing a hidden walkway that led to massive castle shaped trees that lined the skyline. As they walked down the path, it was as though it was all a dream. Every color was vibrant, crisp, and clear with each tree bearing the fingerprint of the powerful Lady Goddess of Nature.

Everyone that came close to the group bowed and greeted them with warm smiles and genuine welcome.

"Meg, I know you wanted to be alone. I'm sorry but the very thought of you facing Dorian and his minions without me is inconceivable." Duncan walked at the same pace with Meg looking straight ahead as he spoke.

"I'm not mad Duncan. Just surprised." She reached for his hand and looked at him searching his face for something.

"Why did you not allow Kane to come with you?"

"Duncan, how did you know—" Meg let out a sigh and continued, "Never mind."

"Look I get it. You wish to give him the liberty to choose without your interference."

"Duncan, I love you and I always will. You are a part of my life. Irreplaceable. What I feel for Kane is very difficult to explain. Time will set things in their place." Meg turned her eyes to the beautiful view before her and said nothing more. Her mind raced along with her heart as she thought of Kane.

"Meg what is it?" Duncan pulled her to one side and looked straight into her emerald eyes.

"What do you mean?" Meg tried to avoid his piercing gaze.

"Meg. I know you. You can't hide anything from me." Duncan reached for her chin and leaned in as he spoke, "You know something. " Meg's eyes searched the ground as though she had lost something important.

"Look Meg if you wish for me to stand aside I can, but keep in mind that I will not linger around to see you get hurt. As much as it would kill me to leave, if that's what you desire, I will gladly go." Meg's heart ached and her soul cried out as if it was being torn apart at the thought of losing Duncan. Her insides stirred confirming what she had always known, " _I love you. You are the missing piece my spirit yearns for. We are meant for each other like two halves of a whole_ ," she thought. But before she could utter a single word, Oren appeared out of nowhere and pushed them both along, "Come on slow pokes. I'm hungry and you don't expect us to start without our guests now do you?"

"No of course not. Our apologies." Duncan and Meg said together.

"Alright then, chop-chop."

Somehow, the endless training seemed to bring Meg peace of mind, distracting her from the mess her life had become. Time got lost in the harmonious atmosphere that was The Living Woods. The majestic trees infused tranquility into their inhabitants with rhythmic pulses deep in their veins, hidden beneath armored bark like a soft soothing heartbeat. Everyone was part of a whole, like a body of a living-breathing creature. Every color, smell, taste and sensation was vibrant, crisp, and perfect in every detail. Meg became better and faster while exceeding her potential in every possible way. Many were reminded of the Earth Goddess when laying their eyes on her; for her beauty was sublime and the power she harnessed ran though her like a flowing stream of purity.

Duncan, Bellum and Nikolai moved and worked as one, able to anticipate each other's thoughts and movements as they trained with the Nymph warriors.

Bellum learned the ancient language of the Elements and about those who lived within them. He became able to summon an infinite variety of creatures he never imagined existed, opening new worlds to him. Friendships were born with Earth Dwellers, Water and Air Elementals, as well as the fervent Fire Elementals that seemed rather taken with him.

Nikolai's free spirit roamed peacefully through every inch of the Living Woods, like a carefree wind. The hidden knowledge of The Breath of Life revealed itself to him, gifting him with the ability to work the wonders of Air.

Duncan's connection with the dimensions of Truth became more in-tuned. The creatures, objects and heavenly bodies that shared a link to it, embraced him as one of their own. The gift that lay dormant within him awakened, allowing him to see the world with new eyes—revealing to him infinite routes and devices that had always been at his disposal.

Some sunsets Meg would sit, legs crossed under the peaceful watch of an enormous tree, eyes closed, as her mind was acutely focused on her Fury sisters. Her body, almost vanishing in a mist, traveled through the lifeline of the trees and the richness of the soil. She quickly found herself in the midst of the trees near King Ambrose's stone castle. Her body took shape in a whirl of air leaves and flowers that dissolved into her skin.

Tisiphone and Alecto waited patiently under Meg's favorite tree. "Meg! It's so good to see you. We've missed you!" Tisiphone and Alecto reached out to her and embraced her tightly. "Yes. I've missed you both. How are things?"

"Well, Kane is losing his mind without you. Allison has isolated herself and King Ambrose doesn't know how to get her out of her cocoon. That about sums it up." Alecto said it in one breath, rolling her eyes in boredom.

"I'm sorry to hear that. Have you tried to speak with Allison?"

"No. King Ambrose has asked us to let him handle it." Tisiphone's sad face reflected how hurt she felt about Allison.

"Don't worry Tisiphone. Everything will work itself out." Meg tried to reassure her.

"How about you?" Alecto was bursting with curiosity.

"I've been training. You know how it is here. I'm great though. The boys send their love. And Bellum, boy is he a pain!" She rolled her eyes and looked to Alecto teasingly.

"Hey, watch it now." Alecto raised her index finger as a warning sign and then just began to laugh.

"You're avoiding the question Meg." Tisiphone looked straight at her. Meg pretended not to hear her.

"I have tons to show you so pay attention." Without a second thought, Meg began to teach them what she had learned. They practiced until their movements were identical and virtually perfect.

"O.K. that about does it. Please take care and I'll see you soon, I promise. I'm so exhausted."

"Any message for the Kane?" Alecto couldn't leave the subject alone.

"Just tell him I—"

"Love him and can't wait to see him?" Alecto teased.

"What is it Megaera?" Tisiphone could sense her sister's sadness and pain like it were her own.

"Huh? Nothing. Until we meet again sisters keep watchful eyes and be vigilant." Meg looked at both of them and without saying another word vanished.

## Chapter Fifteen

The Library was lit with fragrant candles that filled the air with serenity. Kane poured over almost all the ancient looking scrolls, parchments, and books in search for a distraction from the emptiness that filled him. His mind savored each page with such delight that it became as natural as breathing; every technique and ancient wisdom became part of him. His aura became richer, more powerful, and radiant. With every new acquired wisdom, his soul matured, ascending to a new state of consciousness.

"You need to be cautious about the decisions you make. Every action and decision brings a string of events that once unfolded are almost impossible to stop. Revelation or what's known as Truth provide the opportunity for each of us to behave correctly in any situation and receive the maximum benefit from that circumstance." The angel Raziel paused and looked carefully at Kane with curiosity before continuing, "Coincidences do not exist, and they are signals from our universe to pay closer attention to ourselves or those around us. We attract to our lives what we desire most and our intent either enhances our ability to ascend or may serve as a one-way ticket to the lowest levels of conscientiousness where many enter and few to none come out. Never forget that Kane." Raziel sat not too far from Kane observing him and seeing him for what he was and what he could be, giving the right opportunities.

"Be strong my friend. I will be watching out for you." The angel Raziel was careful not to say too much but just enough to keep Kane on his guard.

"I will bind your words to my mind and heart so that I may never forget them." Kane bowed his head and closed his eyes for but a brief second, and when he opened them, his teacher had gone. The door swung open and Ambrose and Lucio walked in with Lady Gaia at their heels.

"Kane, I'd like to ask for your help." King Ambrose bowed with great respect and admiration towards Kane but his face looked troubled. In his eyes, Kane had become a king, for in his opinion, his wisdom was unsurpassed and everything about him said royalty.

"What is it?"

"I ask as your uncle and friend to help me with Allison. She has been training endlessly, seeking perfection in her techniques, isolating herself from everyone, even her brothers. Allison feels a great deal of guilt with what happened with Sadie and Megaera. I guess she gets that from her mother always seeking perfection." His smile was radiant as he recalled his beloved wife.

"What will you have me do?"

"Spend time with her, befriend her. She needs someone to help her relax. I'm afraid for her Kane. She has lost her balance. Both extremes can become lethal and her path will be forever changed." Lady Gaia spoke with so much concern it seemed maternal.

"What about Tisiphone, isn't she like her best friend?" Kane looked closer at the Earth Goddess and could sense alarm.

"Is that a no then?" Ambrose looked directly into Kane's eyes, silently pleading with him.

Kane let out a quiet sigh. "I will do whatever I can to help her." As he spoke his eyes never left the Lady Goddess. "Thank you Kane. I'm in your debt." Ambrose smiled pleased and turned to leave.

"Brother pleases wait." Lucio swung his left arm around his brother as they both exited the library, followed by the Lady Goddess.

The days that followed, Kane spent most of the time with Allison, training with her, teaching her his techniques. With every passing day the emptiness that Kane felt began to dissipate and Allison appeared to fill the void that Meg had left behind. The affection that he felt for her was slowly growing. Allison was sweet, innocent, beautiful and young. Kane felt the need to protect her; look out for her. Whereas Meg took care of herself, she was powerful, extraordinary, vibrant, and the passion that she ignited in him was definitely indescribable. But Meg had left him behind so he began to question how much she truly cared for him. In the back of his mind, he could hear Meg's voice, asking him a question over and over, "Am I that easy to forget?"

Kane sometimes dreamt of Meg unconsciously calling her name, as he lay asleep. Secretly wishing and hoping she'd come back to him.

Everything seemed to happen too quickly. Kane came to really know Allison; she became an open book to him. Allison felt sure of herself, once again resuming her normal interactions with her brothers. The love that Allison felt for Kane blossomed as they spent time together. Her happiness shined bright and everyone (except for the two Furies) was ecstatic for them both. They moved with so much grace and synchronization it was surreal. Allison thought that she and the Furies were the only ones who knew about Meg and Kane's short history—something that nagged in the back of Allison's mind—How much did Kane really feel for Meg and how much had they truly shared together? Was she going to be competing with Meg's memory every time they touched, or kissed? Allison could not bring herself to ask Kane; every time she tried, the words would get stuck in her throat.

Meg would be arriving in a matter of hours and that only added to Allison's worry regarding Kane. In Allison's eyes, her beauty was non-existent next to Meg's; she became insignificant...invisible.

Meg, Duncan, Nikolai, and Bellum arrived together in the midst of jokes and laughter. There was something different about them, sure their appearance remained unchanged but something about them had. The first to greet them were Tisiphone and Alecto.

"Hello sisters, everything in order?" Meg greeted them with the usual enthusiasm and sisterly love. Alecto, immediately after giving Meg a welcome back hug, ran to Bellum and kissed him in a manner that made him blush. Nikolai walked over to Tisiphone and hugged her tenderly, whispering something in her ear as they exchanged subtle flirtatious looks and gestures. Duncan stood next to Meg his hands aching to reach for hers.

Meg turned to Tisiphone and began asking her about what she had missed. Just then, Allison and Kane came into view. Allison was beaming, wearing an enormous smile on her face, unable to hide her "in love" vibe. Kane was smiling, eyes focused on Allison as they walked over holding each other's hand.

Upon hearing Tisiphone say Meg's name, he jerked his head up, eyes searching around, and upon setting his eyes on her he unconsciously let go of Allison's hand. She looked more beautiful than he remembered; his heart almost leapt from his chest, there was something different about her though, a mysterious energy that made her even more irresistible than ever.

"Kane, Kane are you alright?" Allison got in his line of vision. When he didn't respond she followed his eyes to where Meg stood—her smile slowly began to fade—-fear overcame her. She felt as if she'd been punched violently in the stomach and the world became unclear and ruefully uncertain. The paradise she had been living was about to turn into a nasty painful nightmare.

"Allison?" Meg and the rest of the group started walking toward them.

"How are you?" Meg's voice came at them like a tidal wave.

Kane felt her soothing voice caress his soul, his eyes shined with delight as they beheld the radiance and magnificence of her beauty. His fingers ignited with the memory of her silky skin, his lips were aching to relive another kiss, while every inch in his body was vibrating with desire.

Allison however experienced a much different reaction to Meg's voice; hearing her voice was like being dragged down under it, being stripped of EVERYTHING, leaving her naked, scared and completely helpless. " _She has come back. Come back to claim what's rightfully hers! Kane will never choose you over her_..." The words echoed in Allison's head so loud that she covered her ears desperately trying to shut them out before passing out.

Allison awoke feeling a pounding headache. Her eyes desperately trying to focus as she blinked and looked around. She was in her room. Had it all been a terrible nightmare? Her color was coming back, and she smiled slowly shaking off the lingering feelings of panic, but as her eyes came to her bedroom window, she gasped. There, looking out the window stood Meg, looking gloriously beautiful. As Allison sat up Meg spoke with her eyes still glued to the glass, "Try not to make any sudden movements. You had a pretty bad fall. I think you may have hit your head on something." Meg turned around and walked over to Allison's bedside. "Are you all right? You're extremely pale. Perhaps I should go get Tisiphone."

Allison's voice was lost choking in her throat—her hand went to her throat, her eyes fixated on Meg in clear and unmistakable shock. Meg frowned trying to understand what was happening to Allison. "Um...Okay. I'll call Kane and Tisiphone. They're right outside." Meg headed toward the door and as she reached for the knob and began to turn it, Allison FINALLY found her voice.

"No don't. It's good we are alone. There's something I've been wanting to ask you."

Meg walked over, sat down facing Allison, her full attention on her, and waited as Allison ran her fingers through her wavy hair, took a deep breath and bit her lower lip before beginning to speak. As Allison stared at Meg, her heart pounded like a frantic panic stricken horse. Meg was gloriously beautiful— flawless. Any man, angel or god would effortlessly fall insanely in love with her. How was she supposed to compete with that!

"Look. There's no easy way to ask this..."Allison looked like she was about to pass out again. "What is it Allison?" Meg scooted closer to her and took her hands.

"It's about Kane. I know that before you left you two were sort of a couple. But in your absence, we have become very close. I-I love him and I believe he loves me back." She stuttered making her feel even more awkward. "I want to know how close you two were." Allison withheld her hands from Meg as if she was about to hear what she had feared most. If they had been intimate she would die, literally die. It was bad enough she fought to erase her touch from his skin every time they were together, but to know that they had surrendered to each other in body and soul would haunt her for eternity.

Meg just looked at Allison in silence. Her face was unreadable and even then, she still looked like she belonged in a temple somewhere being worshiped, pampered, and envied for her divine beauty. Meg finally stood and walked over to the window once again. She said nothing; she just stared out the glass.

"Meg I need to know."

"You should ask Kane not me. Kane is with you so what else matters? You should be able to talk to him about anything, everything."

"But I'm asking you!" Allison was about to lose her composure. Crazy thoughts were running through her mind, Kane and Meg kissing, surrendering to each other, and experiencing the endless pleasure of making love. "Allison. I'm not going to answer you. This is a conversation you should have with Kane." Meg walked over to the door, poked her head out and called out for Kane, who was with the others waiting in the hallway. "Kane, Allison needs to speak with you."

"No wait! Meg I need to speak with BOTH of you then! NOW!" Allison's voice came out like a lioness's roar. Clearly, she had lost her mind, or was about to lose it.

"Kane, she NEEDS to speak with YOU. This is something that is between you and her." Meg was about to cross the doorframe when Allison's hands grabbed her arms and pulled her back inside.

"What is it Allison? What's wrong?" Kane tried to read their faces as he went from Meg to Allison and then back to Meg.

"She has a question to ask you. A personal one, which I will not answer." Meg was getting upset but she kept her voice calm and collected.

"What is it?" Kane tried to focus on Allison but somehow he couldn't help from looking at Meg from the corners of his eyes.

Allison couldn't get the words out; she choked like she knew she would. She couldn't utter a single syllable. She just stared at him, embarrassed and ashamed.

Seeing Allison choke, Meg asked it for her, "She wishes to ask you if you and I have ever been intimate." Meg looked into Kane's eyes as she said it, and then turned to Allison. "Please excuse me, this is not my place to be." She left the room without looking behind her; both Allison and Kane watched her leave.

Allison let out an aggravated grunt, turned to Kane, and waited for his answer. Kane turned to her and just stared without uttering a single word for what seemed like hours to Allison, until he finally walked to the door to leave.

"Kane! I NEED to know! Did you make love to her?" He stood there, his hand on the doorknob. Allison ran to him desperately pulling at him but Kane didn't face her, he just stood there like an immobile statue. After a few agonizing seconds he turned to look at her over his shoulder...his face was flushed with a small trace of a smirk on his lips. Then he was gone. Allison fell to her knees and wept.

That night Kane teleported inside Meg's chambers the same way he had in the past. Meg was meditating near the window; the moon's rays caressing her skin, bringing to life the traces of gold in the skin. The moonlight made her look like a divine vision of beauty. Kane strode over to where Meg sat, slowly taking in the sight before him, just as he was about to lean over to kiss her...Allison stormed into Meg's room unannounced. Her hair was messy, her nose and eyes red from crying, and she was ready to unleash hell on Meg. Kane disappeared in an almost invisible whoosh.

"You filthy slut! You knew that if you slept with Kane I could never—UGH! How could you! "Meg just looked at her surprised by both her appearance and the nasty words that came out of her mouth.

"Allison, what are you talking about?"

"Don't play coy with me Meg!"

"What is it? Just come out and say whatever you have to say. I will not tolerate your insults!"

"You and Kane had sex! SEX! SEX! SEX! That's what!"

"What?" Meg rose from the floor and stared at Allison with a bewildered look on her face.

"You heard me!" Allison was spewing anger, sadness, and despair all in one shot.

Meg began to laugh. Allison began to cry. She then ran to Meg, hands reaching for her throat.

"Don't you lay a hand on me! I've done nothing of what you presume. If I would have, he would never leave my side. Ever." Meg restrained Allison with little to no effort.

"You play as if nothing can touch your virtue. YOU lie, Kane said you had!" She struggled needlessly, much like a child throwing a tantrum.

"Kane said? Now why would he say that?" Meg kept laughing she couldn't stop herself.

"You-you-you-ugh!" Allison kept squirming and struggling.

"Look, I don't know why Kane would say that...Allison we were never that intimate. He lied if he said we had." Meg walked over to the door, pushed Allison out of her room, and slammed the door shut. Uttering an ancient spell she blocked Allison access to her room.

"I know you're still here Kane. Are you enjoying the show?" Meg sat down on her bed graciously letting out a long sigh.

"Hmmm." Kane appeared beside her.

"Why did you tell her we had—" Meg searched his face, hers was clearly flashing annoyance.

"I never said we had."

"So now Allison is a liar? What did you say exactly?" Meg poked his chest with her index finger and looked into his bright green eyes.

"I said nothing. I left seconds after you did." Kane got closer to her. The thought of making love to her sent his body on a wild ride.

"Well you did something. She is clearly out of her mind. And you should not be here; it will only make matters worse." Meg pointed to the door.

"Why, we're not doing anything. We're just talking. Besides neither of us is bound by the oath of marriage." He looked directly at her lips. He cupped her face in his hands and leaned slowly closer and closer to her lips.

"Allison has already informed me that you two are a couple now. I'm glad you made up your mind." It took every drop of strength to keep her lips away from his. "Now please leave." Her voice was almost breathless and shaky.

Duncan came to her door and quietly knocked before he opened the door. Kane turned his attention towards the door flares of anger, annoyance and jealousy ran across his god=like face as he sensed his rival and then in a hushed burst of air he was gone.

"Hey what's going on? I heard shouting." Duncan came in looking around frantically. "Are you okay Meg?"

"Yes it was just Allison accusing me of having sex with her boyfriend." She made a dismissing gesture with her hands.

"WHAT???"

"Never mind. She just lost her mind for a moment and she needed me to help her find it. Don't worry about it."

"So Kane is with Allison? " Duncan hid his happiness well.

"Yes. "Meg looked at him, her face completely neutral.

"Oh." Duncan could see that she was hurting. " _She loves him_ ," he thought. Meg looked at him again, the mask that hid the pain began to shatter, and silent tears began to flow down her cheeks. If there was one person in the universe that she could never hide anything from, it was Duncan.

"I'm sorry for putting you through this Duncan. I feel like my heart is being torn apart and the worst part is I can't fight against it. You are both engraved in my heart." Meg turned to the window and looked up at the night sky as if seeking guidance or an answer to her dilemma. Duncan walked over and whispered, "I love you," before his lips met hers. He tasted the saltiness from her tears, which only made him want to kiss her pain away even more. Their lips were energies interlacing, filling their bodies with delicious unmistakable pleasure. Duncan pulled her gently into him hoping she would not pull away. To his surprise, her fingers began tracing his muscular arms, his back and chiseled chest slowly tasting him through her skin. Duncan let out a quiet moan as he felt the passion burning under her skin.

## Chapter Sixteen

The days seemed to pass much quicker now; with them, it seemed, Kane and Allison's bond became stronger and Kane seldom found himself thinking about Meg. He had not seen her since she, along with Duncan, Nikolai, and Bellum had returned from The Living Woods. She was avoiding him. "You've made your choice," she'd said before practically throwing him out from her room. Could she already be considering Duncan as her mate? Just the thought of it made him crazy jealous; he felt his whole body become tense with anger and sadness. "Has she forgotten me or does she still contemplate the possibility of us reuniting?" He heard himself say in a quiet whisper that seemed to shake him from within. Before second-guessing himself, he went in search of Duncan.

"How much longer must you torture yourself Meg? I cannot understand why you choose to stay here and watch, as Kane and Allison get closer to the final step. You know it's coming so why not just leave before it happens." Duncan stood framing Meg with his arms extended on each side of her face while his weight rested on his own muscular arms. She was leaning on the tree staring into his light grey eyes, allowing herself to breathe in his scent; their auras playfully chased each other in, around, and between them. Meg placed her right hand on Duncan's chest while slowly caressing his sexy long eyebrows with her left; her eyes glued to his. His love for her was unwavering and pure. He would wait eternities for her if he had to and he would follow her even to the depths of the Seven Hells if that were what it would take. She knew that but the unexplainable pull of Kane had her baffled. Could this be a test of her will power or Fate's cruel ironies? Meg opened her mouth to speak when she felt the unmistakable presence she was trying to forget. She turned her head looking over her right shoulder before glancing back at Duncan. Understanding every unspoken word from her eyes, Duncan cupped Meg's face, locking her in his gaze, and kissed her before she vanished.

Kane walked in long strides following the trail Duncan's aura had left behind, thousands of scenarios playing in his head. How would he approach the subject, and would Duncan be willing to talk with him knowing they were both in love with the same person? Almost before his eyes settled on Duncan he felt _her_ presence—the sweet scent of her skin crashed into him, causing a ripple of emotions to emerge from deep inside him. The flames came alive once more, filling him with a consuming desire for her touch. It was as if every inch of his body had been awakened from a deep sleep. He allowed himself a moment to savor the delicious waves that washed over him, erasing Allison from his mind, body, and soul. Meg was all he wanted, all he knew and all he would ever want.

"Hey there Duncan!" Kane sounded breathless and excited, his eyes searching for his Fury goddess.

"Hello Kane." Duncan's insides felt scrambled. His world was slowly turning upside down, as he doubted Meg's involvement with Kane. He wondered if she could be seeing Kane behind his back. Duncan found Kane's presence instigating. He kept his eyes fixed on his hands as he cracked his knuckles.

"I would like to—" Kane's mind and heart were racing as he tried to find a way to start a conversation, but as he got closer to where Duncan stood, he could feel Meg's aura and scent get stronger and more concentrated which made him crazy with anticipation. " _She's here_!" He thought, a bright smile spreading across his face. Kane came to a stop within arm's length from where Duncan stood.

Kane's eyes followed the aura trail right to its source, which brought instant rage that overtook him. Duncan was drenched in Meg's aura. Her scent was all over him causing Kane to lunge toward Duncan— his body exploding into full warrior mode.

Duncan pre-sensing the danger leapt seconds before Kane came crashing into the tree. The intensity of his rage was close to diabolical. Kane's eyes mirrored the anguish, which threatened to drown his soul and heart from the inside out.

Duncan just watched as Kane's aura increased in size and power, readying to detonate and destroy virtually every living thing within a large proximity.

Aware of what was about to unfold, the trees cracked and moaned as they quickly uprooted themselves clearing out a large open area simulating an arena for the two fighters.

Kane's rage multiplied each time his eyes fell upon Duncan's "Meg scented body." Her essence aggravated his arrogance driving his ego and impulses out of control. He wanted one thing and one thing only. Blood. Duncan's blood.

Duncan's blood was approaching boiling point. It was Kane who had brought pain and misery with his selfishness and non-existent regard for others.

" _His rational self and wisdom have taken a back seat and he has allowed his animal instincts and impulses to take control_ ," Duncan thought. The dark intentions that tainted Kane were crystal clear. He was out for blood. Why? Because he was not content with having Allison, he wanted Meg too, and Duncan was all that stood between them. The realization hit him hard and his body transformed into a blazing grey star of fire. His eyes were pure gleaming liquid-silver spheres whose center throbbed in rhythmic beats, unleashing an ochre colored whirling sword as he fixed his eyes on Kane.

"You will regret what you've done. Meg belongs to me and only me! "Kane's voice came at him with infernal anger, his face mirrored the chaos that stirred within him. The destructive force of his Ayin Ra was unleashed. An ice-cold stare fueled with ire, roared fiercely toward Duncan. In a sudden burst of energy, Kane's ancestral guardians flickered to life, flanking him. An eerie green mist came upon Kane's guardians that infused them with the hatred and blood thirst that ran through their master's veins. They, along with Kane poised themselves to attack and charged toward Duncan. Kane could feel a strange change happening inside his body; something was fighting to break free from within him.

The Light in his aura quivered for a moment before it went flat. The Light was no more. Kane had given in to The Shadow of his Ego.

Duncan's aura hissed as it burned off the poison that threatened to invade him. He stood his ground patiently watching Kane charge at him like an enraged bull. Every attempt Kane made against Duncan was met with the consuming fire that flowed through his body like a second skin. The sparks they produced as they came in contact with each other could very well set a world on fire. Although the two warriors had shared the same instruction, Duncan's movements were flowing and swift, where Kane's had become forceful, abrupt, and chaotic.

The whirling sword kept Kane's guardians at bay as it pierced and cleansed their poisoned bodies before turning to the darkness that was nesting inside Kane. The purifying fire that came from the sword was cold as it pierced Kane's chest, ripping apart the animal that hid deep within his skin. Kane's scream was more of a howl as he felt a part of him tear and burn in a piercing wind that engulfed him completely. Duncan stood and watched as the darkness left Kane's shaking body weak and all sweaty.

Duncan walked over to Kane with a frown upon his face and bent down to offer some words of advice. "Consider this a second chance to make things right. Every choice comes with a string of consequences. You'd be wise to remember that." Duncan whispered as he watched Nikolai and Bellum appear on the wings of a powerful wind creature, followed by Allison and Lucio.

Allison ran to Kane's side almost hysterical, demanding an explanation from someone, anyone.

Bellum and Nikolai exchanged glances with Duncan before looking at Kane, traces of the silver sword still lingering within Duncan's titanium eyes.

## Chapter Seventeen

Allison was awakened by sweet exotic music coming from her window. The mellow resonance was made from the natural sounds of beautiful sapphire birds, emerald frogs, and a bouquet of garnet flowers from Kane's birthplace. Allison swiftly jumped out of bed in one elegant movement and rushed to get ready. As she approached to peek through her window, there was a gentle knock at her door.

"Allie. Are you awake?" Kane's deep sensual voice came from behind the door.

Allison's face suddenly radiated with excitement and overwhelming happiness. She glided to the door and as she opened it, was greeted with a big smile and a warm hug.

"Kane!"

"Are you ready to start the day your highness? I will be your escort today and you may do with me as you wish." As he said the last few words, he lovingly traced her face with his fingers and pecked her on the cheek. Allison shyly looked down but could not hide her enthusiasm.

King Ambrose, Allison, and her brothers gathered in the library for a briefing of the day's activities and royal responsibilities.

Kane waited in the garden studying and perfecting defensive maneuvers with Bellum and Nikolai. Bellum read from his book of enchantments, occasionally tossing some challenges (gruesome looking creatures of dust, air and clay) to Kane while Duncan and Nikolai played a game of seek and destroy with one another, testing their abilities and strategies nearby. Kane moved effortlessly and gracefully across the open yard that stood next to the beautiful garden. His hands would take on a shiny black armored look as they blurred in and out of sight. Kane's feet glided as he practiced with precision every instrument laid out for him by his father.

Kane's earliest memories were of his father, weapons, weapons and more weapons. This was the only way it could be, considering that it was part of the job description as Head Guardians of The Seven Cities. Every motion Kane executed was effortless and flowing. He was accustomed to find himself surrounded by beautiful young women, on looking in dazes of smiles and stares.

"Sorry ladies but this one is mine." Allison's tone was stern but playful. As she came through the crowd of sighing sirens, her eyes focused on Kane.

"Allie. One minute please, not quite done."

"Take your time, or better yet, may I join you?"

"Allie. I don't think it's wise. You may get hurt."

Joining the mass of yummy girls that giggled and blushed at the trio, Bellum, Duncan, and Nikolai quickly put their toys away, eager to see the challenge play out.

"Come on now. I'm not as harmless as I look Kane." Allison said, jumping right in front of him in one swift movement, catching him by surprise.

"Allison! I could have hurt you!"

Allison just laughed as she took a long transparent weapon and effortlessly maneuvered it as she approached him cautiously.

"No." Kane said dropping his weapon to the ground.

"Aw Kane...please. I promise I won't hurt you."

"No!" Kane's eyes briefly changed their shade as he focused on her hand. A green mist flowed over the weapon before jumping from her hand.

Lucio took that as a sign to leave and went in search of his brother.

"Love. I've been training ever since I can remember. You can't hurt me." Allison tried to sound convincing as she continued to walk closer to Kane.

"Hmm... Yes well it's still a 'no.'"

"Afraid you might meet your match? If you're afraid just say so. It's okay I still love you."

"Wow. Well since you're attacking my manhood, I guess I can't necessarily say 'no.' Alright I have a proposition for you." Kane's tone was teasing and unauthentic.

"Shoot."

"You attack me. If you can get the better of me, in say... five attempts, we can practice whenever you wish."

"Let's dance handsome." Allison grabbed a dagger and spear twirling them easily in the air before bringing them to rest by her hips.

Kane just laughed, confident that she was going to fail.

And so it began... a vision in lavender, one-shoulder, knee length dress came straight for Kane. She was pure beauty with a white glistening dagger in one hand, and a long spear-like weapon in the other. He gracefully moved aside, took hold of her hands firmly preventing her from moving them and kissed her on the right cheek. "That's one." Allison just laughed and tried again.

This time she came at him from the side in a swirl of wind, twirling the long spear with the dagger holstered in her belt. She had a menacing smile on her face as she faked left and brought the spear angled at his ribs. Kane was in the middle of his defense strike when he noticed that she had gone in the other direction. In a fraction of a second, he vanished leaving but a dark mist where he once stood.

"That's two." He reappeared behind Allison, kissing her left cheek.

"Ugh." Her cheeks betrayed her and blushed tomato red.

And it went on for another two attempts, with Kane always a step ahead of her. Allison was beginning to tire of the game so she channeled her aura energy and duplicated herself. Now there were two he had to worry about. Then four. Brutally strong kicks came at Kane from every direction. Kane managed to block each blow, blurring in and out of sight, but then lost track of one. Allison appeared behind Kane, dagger glistening in her left hand while bringing her right arm up. Kane felt her sweet, warm, and intoxicating scent and with a wide smile, turned around with one swift and low round kick that brought her down butt first.

"Sorry Allie, but I did advice against this from the start. Remember?" Kane caught her just inches from the floor, laughing genuinely. "It's getting late. Let's pick it up tomorrow." Kane said rolling his eyes with a triumphant smile across his godlike face.

"This isn't over, not in a long shot." Allison's voice was strained as she tried to catch her breath. "I can think of one thing we can do." Allison said as she began gathering all her weapons.

"Oh? " In a heartbeat, Kane was at her side eager to hear the rest of her suggestion.

"Kiss." Allison's voice trembled.

"Well, I don't know. I'm kind of tired." Kane teased waiting to see her indignant reaction.

"Don't worry you don't have to do anything but enjoy." Allison laughed as she threw herself at him.

To her surprise Ambrose appeared suddenly from behind the trees, clearing his throat rather loudly, trying to announce his presence. Kane suddenly felt very embarrassed and pulled away from Allison. However, she didn't share his sheepish reaction and clung to him with all her strength, but just for a second.

"Thank you for everything; the lovely music and the lesson in strategy. I rather enjoyed that." Allison said as she pulled away from Kane.

"Kane. Allison." King Ambrose greeted them both. Seeing his daughter so blissfully happy made him smile.

"Allison, I need you in the library darling. Kane, I promise it will only take a few minutes."

"Of course. I think I'll take a moment to freshen up a bit. Your majesties." Kane bowed his head and waited until Allison and her father had walked out of sight, then swiftly grabbed his weapons and vanished to his room.

## Chapter Eighteen

Allison sat behind her father's mahogany desk in the library. She was amongst piles of different types of documents, blueprints, and books and was completely absorbed in her work.

"Good morning." Kane covered her eyes with his delicate hands. Allison could feel his breath on her hair. The emotion he felt for her was innocent and pure and caused her to feel his overwhelmingly warm energy, which she could not resist. She found herself desperately craving to be near him, wanting and almost hurting whenever they were apart. Her heart, body and soul had an insatiable hunger for him.

"Kane!" She turned around in a heartbeat and threw herself on him.

"You know this behavior doesn't become you. If your father sees you he will surely throw me out for being a bad influence on his perfectly mannered daughter." As he spoke, he raised one eyebrow and grinned.

"I love you Kane. He knows that and he knows how much you love me. We are one for the other. She traced his long thick eyebrows with her forefinger and found herself getting lost in his deep bottle-green eyes. "Enough chit-chat kiss me Kane!

As their lips embraced, Kane drank from the sweet rare wine that brought joy to his life. Their energies intertwined like helixes flowing from their lips and exploding throughout their bodies. Passion, love, and endless desire ran through their veins, hearts began to race pounding like a galloping horse on the bare ground; barely stopping for breath before diving into the bottomless abyss of love.

"Hmm. You always taste so perfect... ink and paper." Kane teased as he raked his tongue with his teeth. "How long have you been stuck behind this desk?"

"Since sunrise."

"What's so important that can't wait until after a decent hour?"

"Some scrolls have gone missing Kane, important ones, the kind that can bring a reign of destruction upon us all. No one knows who's taken them or what they plan to do with them."

"If I may ask...what do they contain?"

"The last known location of where to summon The Fallen One. It's really bad Kane. He is the reason why my mother is gone."

"I'm so sorry Allie." Kane embraced her and kissed her forehead.

"I should go then. I'll look for you later."

"No silly, don't. I don't want you to go." She clung to him as tears flowed down her cheeks. "The only memories I have of my mother are fragmented and unclear, as if someone doesn't want me to remember. I can't talk to father about it because he blames himself for whatever happened."

"Shh. Shh. Allison. I'm here. "Kane took a deep cleansing breath and before he could utter another word, his eyes turned a shade of pale green jade and time regressed around them.

"Allison, someone's coming. I hear footsteps."

"It's probably just father." Allison took a deep breath and wiped her tears on Kane's priestly robe closing her eyes as his delicious scent washed over her.

They stood on the front right side of the mahogany desk full of parchments. As the voices came into range, Allison recognized her father's alarmed voice trying desperately to conceal his anger.

"Where is he? How could this happen?"

"I'm so sorry Ambrose. I don't know what came over me...Please forgive me!"

The woman that was trailing King Ambrose was a rare beauty; her movements were graceful and flowing. Her light purplish, mid-back wavy hair shined like a star in the heavens. She looked so familiar to Kane but he was unable to know why.

"How could you have surrendered the scroll to him? Knowing the kind of filthy creature he's turned out to be!" The disgust was evident in King Ambrose's face and he could not even bring himself to say his name.

"Ambrose! Think what you may, but he's still your brother, your blood. Why can't you just try to help him?"

"I don't see him that way anymore." He turned to face the desk where Kane and Allison stood dumbfounded while trying to understand what it was they were witnessing. Kane could see tears of either sadness or anger in King Ambrose's eyes.

"Lucio and Dorian were always secretive about their whereabouts even as children. I can barely tell them apart myself. We don't even know which one we can trust or _if_ we can trust one of them. That is why I chose not to include them in our lives, even more so now that we have Allison to watch out for."

"But they're still your family."

"You don't understand, once you make the decision to cross _that_ line, there's no turning back. You slowly lose your immortality; your powers diminish with time, your body begins to deform dreadfully, and well it's a terrible way to live."

There was a sudden interruption as someone violently broke through the library doors in a blur. There before Elin and Ambrose stood a man wearing a long chocolate brown cloak, his hair was shoulder length and ashy blonde. His eyes were a cloudy mud color with yellow slits for pupils.

"Aw my apologies for the interruption but I think you know why I'm here Ambrose. Hand over the stone." He extended his left arm and gestured with his fingers.

"You seemed to know my name but I have yet to learn yours." King Ambrose took a step forward putting himself between his wife and the intruder.

"Forgot me already? How rude!"

Before another word was spoken, Ambrose came at him full force. His strikes were precise, strong, and without mercy. He was a blur of threatening fatal movements; his body took a scaly appearance while transforming into a deadly and ferocious dragon-like creature. Snapping his jaws at the intruder pieces of the cloak went flying, turning into foul black birds with razor sharp beaks and talons. The air was filled with the bird's eerie tune as they headed in the direction of the queen—thirsty for her blood and hungry for the taste of her flesh. Elin brushed her fingers on her ring and uttered something under her breath bringing a shimmering white sword to life that sliced each bird in half. As the pieces hit the ground, they twitched, exploding into a dark smoke. The cloak was gone and in its absence was a chiseled, bare upper body with letters and symbols running down his chest and across his waist, long black pants and bear feet.

"I really don't wish to inflict harm on my own family Ambrose, but as you can imagine we are pressed for time." He opened his arms and with a swift gesture of his right wrist a crystal orb appeared containing the image of a child.

"Let her go, demon!"

"Aw. I knew you'd see it my way. Give me the stone or she dies." The clear orb floated inches away from Ambrose's face and he could clearly see a dark ominous shape appear behind the child. While she lay still in her bed, the demon held a terrifying animal of the deepest, darkest nightmares, just above her head. It was small enough to fit in the palm of the hand, bushy haired, with no visible eyes or ears. It stood up long enough to bare its mouth, baring endless rows of teeth and a long thin forked tongue, waiting to be unleashed on Allison as she laid quietly sleeping.

"Who are you?" Ambrose was desperately trying to remember of anyone who would have access to such monsters.

"Dear brother... you need to ask?"

"Which one? Dorian or Lucio?" As he spoke, he paused looking for the slightest reaction that would give him the answer he was searching for.

"Well. If you still need to ask then that's too bad." As he spoke each word, his face showed anger and resentment.

"Dorian."

"Humph. So what's it to be, the life of my sweet niece or the stone?"

"Ambrose please." Elin put her hand on her husband's shoulder with tears streaming down her cheeks.

"I'll give you what you seek, just don't hurt our daughter." Ambrose tried desperately to control his rage, acknowledging his defeat.

Dorian just smiled devilishly, bursting into an arrogant and triumphant laugh.

Ambrose turned to Elin, reached for her hands and together uttered a phrase in their native angelic tongue. A bright light ran from their lips and through their fingers forming a clear white-blue stone the size of a coconut. In the center, a gleaming golden thread began to take shape, but before it could transform...

"Let the map be hidden." Elin said under her breath her eyes a pale shade of purple.

Dorian reached out for the stone and as he turned for the door, Lucio came in a flash of light, knocking both the orb and the stone from his grasp. There, standing before Ambrose stood the exact double of the man who threatened his baby girl. He had a slight difference of eye color and a distinctive mole above his upper lip.

"Go save Allison, Ambrose. Dorian and I will settle this! Go! Go!" Lucio stood confidently before his twin, one hand at his side while with the other holding a long amber staff.

"Damn you Lucio! You are becoming quite an irritating pest."

"Save it Dorian."

Dorian came at him in a rage but his movements looked sickly and unnatural. He began striking at his twin without mercy while curses came pouring from of his mouth. Out of his silhouette came shiny haired dog-like creatures with deadly rows of teeth, tiny needle-like spikes running down their spines, and their claws were nothing he had ever seen in his life; curved and razor sharp, making a frightening cling-clang sound on the stone floor. As Lucio looked closely at the monsters, they had a very faint trace of innocence that baffled him. Their eyes were silently crying out for help.

"Dorian what have you done?"

"What? This is what happens to all who oppose my will!" He ran his fingers down the monsters' thick hair while each creature whimpered and howled in pain.

"I always hoped you'd be on my side, but you're weak, pathetic, and unable to see the limitless power that can be yours to control. Kill him!"

The animals hesitated.

"I said k-i-l-l h-i-m!" Unable to control his rage, Dorian reached for the closest creature uttering a foul curse. The sound of bones cracking loudly followed and the creature fell to pieces. Afraid they'd meet the same fate, the rest attacked Lucio. He was careful to only block their attacks and distance himself from them, knowing their will was being forced.

"Well that leaves you my lady. Give me the stone." Dorian's eyes were icy and monstrous as he approached.

"Never!" Elin brought the stone to her mouth and with one word sent it back to its rightful place.

"Damn you! Well then that leaves me with only one option... your destruction." As he approached her, he smiled triumphantly. Ambrose appeared suddenly in front of him, sending Dorian flying with just one blow to the chest.

"Elin take Allison and go." Ambrose knew one thing and one thing alone; he could not bear to lose his wife or his daughter.

Lady Elin disappeared into the castle, desperately hoping that she'd arrive before anything happened to her baby. Everything seemed to be paralyzed outside of the library consumed by an eerie silence that flooded the halls. It made her heart thump with the uncertainty of something lurking in the shadows, waiting to devour her children.

Finally, she arrived at Allison's door, short of breath, sword drawn in one hand while holding a paralyzing orb in the other. Closing her eyes, she activated her third eye seeking clarity on how best to enter her daughter's room. The spot between her eyes glowed bright as the stone veil that stood between her and her daughter seemed to dissolve, giving her the ability to see the creature that threatened her little one.

Preparing for some strange ritual, the abomination began placing blood stained amulets around the bed, pacing with crazed hunger, looking in Allison's direction, while making licking and slurping noises.

"Patience. You will soon dine on her flesh." The dark figure spoke in the same licking and slurping language as the creatures. Although unable to understand, Elin's intuition shouted to her to get Allison out of there. Without a second thought, she called upon her family guardians.

A breeze stirred around the lovely queen and creatures appeared instantly, even before she finished uttering her summoning chant. Tiger-like creatures bowed their majestic heads before charging into the room in a violent, yet quiet manner. Effortlessly, they retrieved Allison after ripping the two creatures to shreds with their diamond sharp claws. The ashes that remained on their claws were burned off as their aura burned bright gold ridding them of all evil. Then they licked their paws like harmless kittens before turning in the queen's direction and vanishing.

Lady Elin heard Ambrose call to her as she ran with Allison at her heals.

"Come child, we must get you out of harms reach." Placing Allison down, she instructed her to stay behind and wait for her five brothers who would take her to a safer location. Elin kissed Allison on the cheek and hugged her lovingly before running back into the castle. She didn't look behind her to know that the small Allison trailed behind with fear-filled tears trickling down her cheeks. Upon reentering the library, the queen stood awe struck as her eyes followed the fierce fight between the three brothers. As her hand reached for her weapon that rested on her right hip, her eyes fell on Allison who stood next to her.

"Darling! I told you to stay outside and wait for your brothers, this is no place for a child!" Allison looked as though she was going to faint out of terror and she clung to her mother's waist as she sobbed. "We must get you out." Elin suddenly found she was trapped as chaos surrounded them both. There were no open exits. The mother and daughter duo stood there unable to flee. On one side, Lucio fought back the creatures trying to release them from a bond of enslavement, while on the other, stood Ambrose and Dorian at each-others' throats, leaving very little room to even breathe.

Kane stood there seeing all of this unfold before him. A strange feeling of delight came over him as he looked at the battle before him. His body hummed with adrenalin readying itself to join in.

Allison could not take her eyes of her mother, tears flowing down her face. Her gorgeous mother stood there seeking a way out, holding a sweet child in one arm and a fierce looking sword in the other. At the same time, her father was fighting relentlessly, while a tiny version of herself was clinging desperately to her sobbing mother.

The battle raged on between the two brothers, blow after blow, with kicks and foul curses that circled them like a deadly tornado. Ambrose proved to be a greater warrior and king. Dorian finally fell to his knees in pain and exhaustion. Looking at his brother, he knew he had lost _this_ battle, but not necessarily the war. Dorian's plan was simple now...RUN!

Dorian summoned a powerful demon to fight Ambrose long enough to allow himself to flee. The demon was huge and the very sight of it was crippling and terrifying – an enormous hairy body of muscles, deadly fangs, and razor sharp claws and talons that could very easily tear him to pieces with little effort. Ambrose however, only saw an ugly angry monster before him, unleashed for destruction.

Out of nowhere three beautiful pale maidens wearing battle gear, joined him. They were petite with long sleek hair that appeared alive around their flawless angelic faces... sisters perhaps or three versions of one powerful female. Without hesitation, they surrounded the demon.

"King Ambrose, I'm Tisiphone. My sisters Alecto and Meg at your service."

"Furies? Here?" Ambrose was terror stricken, knowing their presence was not a good sign. "You need to protect your wife and child!" Tisiphone spoke with urgency as her teeth tore through the demon's skin, making it howl in pain while her two sisters where fiercely slicing and piercing the demon.

Before Dorian reached the door he saw the opportunity to leave his mark, and with a quick gesture of his hands, daggers appeared in his right hand aiming them directly at Ambrose. He flung them with all the strength he could muster. The daggers whistled, announcing their deadly intentions, but just as they were about to pierce Ambrose in the heart, Elin stood in their wake—sword drawn.

"Mom!" Allison screamed in panic as she saw her mother's body fall to the ground.

Dorian stood behind the fallen queen. Almost robotically, he wiped the two sacrificial daggers clean on Lady Elin's own sleeve. As a final blow, he looked into the eyes of the sobbing child that knelt next to the fallen queen and gave her a sharp blow to the head.

Kane held Allison tight as though that would ease her pain.

"No!" Ambrose felt his knees buckle as he saw his wife in a pool of milky white sparkling blood and his beloved daughter beside her, unconscious.

"I told you I did not want this, but you refused to give me what I asked." Dorian disappeared suddenly along with his wounded demon.

"There's no time to lose, we need to heal her." Alecto gestured to her sisters as she approached the fallen queen.

"You can't. She's been stabbed with the Dagger of Lost Souls. The Dark One will contact you to make a trade." The voice came from a translucent elf-like creature that was struggling to get to his feet. "He stole it from my father and has learned how to yield it; he has to want her to live for her to heal, otherwise she will suffer unimaginable pain until either she dies or goes mad from the unbearable pain." He bowed and gave an elf salute of respect to the Furies and to Ambrose.

"What? Who are you?"

"All you need to know is that I am in your debt as you have freed me and my brothers from the bond of enslavement to The Dark One. Thank you Master Lucio." They all bowed down and muttered something in their native tongue." The Dark One knows where and how to strike in order to get whatever he wants. Whenever you need our assistance, we will forever be allied until the Dark One is destroyed or trapped once again. With that, the whole group of creatures took to the sky and swiftly disappeared.

A message sphere made its way to the center of the group, "Give me the Stone and I will release her from the agonizing pain she is in, and maybe I'll let her live too. You have until sunset, she unfortunately doesn't have that long!" Dorian's voice came out of the orb, ringing with delight in every word he spoke. Upon delivery of the message, the orb shattered and collapsed on itself.

"We cannot heal her wounds but we can ease her pain." The three Furies joined hands and began to chant elevating Elin's wounded body and encasing it in silver light that ran through her entire being.

"The child will have to be healed of this memory as well. We will stay with you until Dorian is dealt with or destroyed." The three spoke as one in an eerie ferocious voice that filled the room.

Kane and Allison saw everything begin to blur before them as if they were being pulled away from the room. They magically found themselves back to their present time. Kane held her delicately, somehow feeling that if he broke the silence she would shatter to pieces.

Ambrose, as if summoned, entered the library with a blank expression on his face.

"Allie, perhaps it's time you and your father talk. Alone." Kane turned towards the door. "No! Don't go, please stay. "Allison needed his presence in the room; she felt only he appeased her soul.

"Yes. Kane please stay. What's on your mind?"

Allison began telling her father what she had just witnessed and pleaded with him to tell her what happened.

Ambrose did not say much more than they had already witnessed first-hand. With each word he spoke, pain was visible in every feature of his face. His eyes became distant and for a brief moment, looked like their color was intensifying and pulsing with hatred or unimaginable pain while his lips barely moved and the color washed from his face.

"I was going to surrender the Stone to Dorian but Elin opposed it completely. She asked to be left alone for a few minutes right before sunset... she left lethally injured. He reached for a small rectangular prism that hung from his neck, an accessory that had come to be part of him. When his breath reached the center of the prism, the image of Elin's barely able to stand was beautiful and yet sad—her life force was like a flickering candle before them. Her long hair seemed to fall in perfect waves down to her mid back; her eyes were a pale violet, much like a fading flower slowly announcing its end, and her body looked extremely fragile. Allison felt her heart stop as she looked into the eyes of her dying mother.

Kane reached out to her and held her. They were speechless, feeling incredible pain as they watched the last moments of her beloved mother.

Ambrose fought back tears as she began to speak...

" _My beloved Ambrose I will seek Dorian and try to make him see reason. You cannot surrender the Stone or the map to him; to do so will be suicide not only for you but also for all the surrounding kingdoms. I cannot bear to lose you. This is the only way. I love you, you are my life. Should my return be held back for any reason, I ask that you please see to the children and tell them how much I love each and every one of them._

_Until my return, remember I'm forever yours, Elin_."

Life was clearly leaving her when she said the last few words. But even then, she tried desperately to appear confident and strong.

"No one knows if she was even able to reach him. I never heard from her again." Ambrose fought to keep it together as he continued, "I spent years looking for her, but never even found a single trace. I sometimes feel her presence guiding me, her spirit perhaps, but my heart feels the emptiness that is still secretly wishing she had come back to us.

Our children are the only thing that hold my heart intact. You are living proof of our love and how much we meant to each other." His face had a fierceness and palpable rage that was uncharacteristic for him. "Everyone in this kingdom loves Lucio dearly. He was the unofficial king and father to my children until I was well enough to take my place. He has proven to be a true friend and an extraordinary man. I have no doubt in my mind that you share the same trait. My heart is at peace having witnessed the love you have for my baby." He took Allison's hand and squeezed it." You two remind me so much of Elin and myself." Ambrose let out a quiet laugh as his memories flashed before his eyes.

"I know she's out there father. She'd never promise to come back if she knew otherwise. Besides you've always told us she's as tough and cunning as she is beautiful."

"Yes. She was."

"She is." Allison reached for her father and held him lovingly trying desperately to somehow infuse him with her knowledge of the truth, her truth. Her mother was still alive.

## Chapter Nineteen

As the sun's rays ran their delicate fingers though the crisp green leaves, it released the sweet scent of newly blossomed flowers into the air, Kane and Allison took a stroll down to the garden admiring the birth of a new day.

"Allison." Kane turned to look at her as he spoke—her hair fell in perfect waves down to her shoulders, her gorgeous lilac eyes were twinkling stars in the enchanted, flawless sky of her face. He took a deep breath and suddenly stopped walking; his heart was pounding so hard he felt it was going to leap out of his chest. Looking into her bright lilac eyes, he knelt down on one knee and took her small delicate hands in his. "Allie." Their eyes locked on each other. "Will you do me the honor and privilege of becoming my wife?"

There was a brief pause as Allison just stared into his bottle-green eyes and realized, " _He has chosen me. Me. Not her! She will have to accept his choice and move on_." Her heart leapt for joy. "Yes!" A bright smile spread across her face bearing her dimples as she stared into the eyes of the only man she had ever truly loved. He cupped her face in his hands and began kissing her lips, cheeks, chin, and forehead.

Loud cheers and thunderous applause came from behind the trees as Ambrose, Orion, Sirius, and the rest of their friends and family came out congratulating with hugs, gifts and kisses. Bellum, Nikolai and Duncan began teasing Kane with curtsies, bows, and jokes about the future king. Meg, Alecto, and Tisiphone came from behind Nikolai and Bellum bearing gifts for the happy couple.

"Finally, it took you long enough!" Mei hugged them both. "I know you will make each other eternally happy."

"Congratulations Allison!" Lady Gaia came in bearing lovely gifts in amber boxes for the lucky couple. Lucio had a small square shimmering box in his hand containing a pair of beautifully crafted rings.

Kane found himself surrounded by all his male companions; the teasing and congratulating seemed to crescendo into a roar that soon transformed into laughter and games.

"You remind me so much of your mother, congratulations my love." Ambrose held her tight and kissed her forehead.

Kane was left alone for a brief moment and his eyes wandered to Meg as she spoke to her sisters under the canopy of a nearby tree. Her silver sleek hair floated around her like a goddess and her skin seemed to shimmer as the sun's rays peeked through the tree branches. When his eyes came to her lips, he relived the vivid passionate kisses she bestowed upon him in the very spot where he was now standing. Her olive green eyes looked somewhat smaller...longer, and her nose had a pink hue to it. He thought those were clear signs she'd been crying.

Kane's eyes went from her face to the rest of her body and he found himself admiring her; his eyes almost caressing every glorious curve. A secret blazing fire brewed under his skin. He never expected Meg to even come to the gathering but she was there... like the teasing forbidden fruit of the tree of knowledge, secretly waiting for his will to bend to hers. He covertly wondered, "What would it be like to have his arms once again wrapped around her? She would belong to him and he to her. To explore every inch of her skin like a pioneer in the new world? Glorious pleasure no doubt. Or feel her touch on his skin once again, feeling the electricity that came with it, like a live wire exploding through his senses? Exhilarating!" His body vibrated with desire for her—his mind became overwhelmed with flashes of what they had and what could be.

Feeling his gaze upon her, she shivered and turned to look in his direction—when their eyes met, Meg felt as if her heart was being ripped apart. It took a great deal of control to keep from giving away her pain. Her face was a mask, bearing the best smile she could force.

Failure was an alien concept she knew nothing about before Kane, and now her heart was drowning in it.

"Meg. Perhaps it wasn't the best idea to for you to come." Tisiphone put her hand on Meg's shoulder as she too glanced in Kane's direction. Meg and Kane were locked in each other's gaze, both feeling the undeniable gravitational pull towards one another. "I'm fine Tisiphone." Meg's voice became fierce. "Furies are not meant to fall in love, but that doesn't mean we're heartless. I'll see you back home, I've had enough." She managed to tear herself from Kane's eyes while fighting back the burning behind her eyes.

"We _can_ fall in love." Alecto corrected her warrior sister, "It has never been forbidden but in our line of work, it becomes dangerous to all who choose to be around us. Thankfully, the dashing warriors over there can take care of themselves." Alecto nodded in the direction of Bellum, Duncan, and Nikolai.

Duncan, as if aware of the conversation, turned to Meg and flashed his charming smile. Meg smiled back at him tenderly, and then silently turned to leave.

Kane felt an urgent impulse to go to her as his eyes watched her leave, but if he did... what would that mean? In the seconds that followed, Kane felt torn between what he felt, with what he thought he should do. After fighting with himself internally, he gave in to his impulse. He walked over to Allison and said, "I'll be right back," and went after Meg in silent swiftness.

Duncan disappeared shortly after, leaping from one tree to the next. He had to know what Kane was up to.

As Kane ran frantically through the trees looking for her, everything around him seemed to be trapped in stillness. She had disappeared. She did not want to be seen or heard and it would be impossible to track her if she did not want to be found.

"Meg, wait. I need to speak to you, please." Kane shouted to the emptiness that surrounded him. "Please Meg." Kane closed his eyes feeling a sense of failure. He shouldn't have hesitated. Now she was gone. Gone forever.

"What do you want Kane?" Her voice came at him in a rush of wind.

"Please. I need to speak with you... about us."

"There is no us, Kane." Meg's voice echoed along the trees.

"Megaera, I would like to speak to you, not like this, but face to face...Please!" Kane desperately wanted for her to appear before him so he could taste her lips for the last time.

"Turn around Kane and go to Allison. I'm not a toy you can play with whenever or how often you like. Kane you've made your choice and I'm glad for you both, Allison is a wonderful young woman. She deserves your respect as well as your love. What you hope to happen here between us can only exist in your head because I will not allow it."

"Meg, I only wish to see you and to tell you that-"

"Do you love her?"

"I think so."

"Then why are you here? I don't understand." She began to materialize not far from where Kane stood, her long, sleek, silver hair moved in the silent wind and her skin sparkled like an unreachable star in the heavens.

Directly above her was Duncan on a thick branch like a feline ready to spring.

Meg's eyes began to fill with tears but she forced herself to sound calm and unaffected by what his presence meant.

Kane disappeared and then reappeared behind her having sensed her presence. He took a moment to relish every flawless detail that made her unique, exquisite, and ever so irresistible to him. His eyes projected what his soul and heart cried out as he gazed upon her beauty. He wrapped his strong arms around her. As Meg felt his tight embrace, she fought against the incredible urge to give in to her impulse. Her whole body trembled and shivered.

Duncan waited with his heart at his throat—" _She deserves better, the best. She should never have to settle to be someone's lover, or mistress_ ," he thought, as his body tensed and fought the impetus to leap from the shadows and put Kane in his place.

"You cannot do this Kane. _Please. Kane_. Let me go, and go back to the party...Go back to Allison." She began to vanish fighting against her desire to stay wrapped in his arms.

"Don't leave me Meg. Let me explain why I'm here. He turned her to face him and locked her in his gaze, his soul crying out for hers. He delicately raised her chin close to his, so near that she could feel his breath on her skin. For that short moment everything around them faded and it was just the two of them inches apart from each other.

Duncan's heart raced, threatening to rip out of his chest in panic while he sat bracing himself for a shattering impact. His eyes refused to turn away.

"I am here before you because..." Kane brushed his lips on hers, "I'm still in love with you." Meg felt his words pour down on her, sending chills down her spine.

"Why are you marrying her then, if you love me?" It came out like a hushed sigh. Feeling her breath on his lips, Kane allowed himself to get lost in the moment, his heart raced with anticipation and his entire body was tingly with adrenaline as he pulled her closer to him. Kane waited for Meg to lean in and kiss him. His breath quickened, his eyes burned with intensity and passion as he stared at her lips with a thirst only _she_ could quench, but Meg only looked up into his green eyes, fighting against the urge to kiss him.

Surrendering to the avalanche of desire for her touch, Kane leaned in to kiss her.

Duncan held his breath feeling his heart sink deep into his chest as though hiding from a terrible fate. " _Please don't_! Meg!" He tried to shout, but his voice got lost in his throat. As Kane's lips were about to touch hers, a tear ran down Meg's cheek her body transformed into a gush of whispering wind that fled from his touch.

Duncan sighed with relief; his heart's natural rhythm slowly coming back to him.

"That's my girl." He managed to say as he stared momentarily at Kane. Duncan shook his head in disbelief then wrapped in silence rejoined the party.

Kane stood there, eyes lost in the emptiness that Meg had left behind.

A special preview of

## Kane And The Seven Hells

Excerpt copyright 2011-2012 by Seraphine Abrams

Chapter One

The guests began to pour in shortly after announcing Kane and Allison's engagement. The Elemental Malachim Uri, Ari, Nathaniel, and Ira were among the first to arrive. They were carried in by a soft whispering wind that released its sweet aroma of wild flowers that were surrounding the stone castle walls. The four majestic creatures took a slow deep breath, sensing their surroundings. Acutely aware of everything they turned to each other silently collecting their information.

"Malachim. Always a pleasure to have you visit, and in this wonderful occasion our welcome is a thousand times sweeter." King Ambrose greeted them with strong open arms and a genuine loving smile.

"We are honored to be here, Ambrose thank you for having us." Ari's tone was regal and elegant, his presence overflowed with ancient raw power.

"Brother we are ever so glad to hear such wonderful news for Allison and Kane. After all, we have kept a close watch on them both after the most unfortunate events that have unfolded." Uri took Ambrose by the forearm and with the other arm embraced him silently, acknowledging his pain and loss.

"Yes, well, Dorian has a lot to answer for and justice does not always come on swift wings... but comes nonetheless."

"Of course dear brother. In due time, all shall be put in its place. We trust that you will remain as you are and your family will be restored to what it once was."

"Come, there is much to do and you have yet to meet and greet some new and old friends."

They strode into the castle like gods with their inner energy illuminating everything with a supernatural glow. The next to follow in the parade of guests were Delphica's royal family. In a wave of opalescence, King Eben, Queen Raziella, their son Kaleb, and his wife Rachel charmingly entered. Shouts of joy from the men and happy shrieking from the women filled the hall as they all eagerly populated the room to exchange news and gossip.

The flow of guests continued as a group moved gracefully through the mouth of the castle. As they made their entrance, the halls were infused with their Abramelin perfume. Their appearance had an extraordinarily palpable silkiness that enticed every one of the senses. The five leaders of the herd radiated with tranquility and vitality with every step.

"Your Majesties, it's a pleasure to see you! Come in, come in." Out of the corridor, came Allison wearing a luminous smile, welcoming them to her home.

"I see the rumors are true. He's got you beaming like a night star, and smiling like a fool." Elana half laughed as she spoke. Her lavender scented hair bounced with excitement and curiosity as she looked around, "Where is the dashing young gentleman?"

"Oh, he's around here somewhere."

"You remember my siblings, Nili—" She gestured to her right and her sister curtsied and smiled. "And Sadie of course." Elana turned to her left and Sadie's black curls slowly came to life as she bowed gracefully. "Lastly these are our brothers, Oren and Ilan." Both also bowed their heads in salute to the young princess.

"Hello, and hello to all of you as well. Welcome!" Allison peeked around the five fabulous creatures before her to welcome their warriors.

"Your Highness." The mass of warriors responded in unison.

"Please let me show you to your chambers." Allison said, as she guided them through the castle.

"Tell me, are the Malachim here yet?" Elana asked, looking around and unable to hide her enthusiasm.

"Yes, they were the first ones to arrive. You will most likely run into them since their quarters are close to yours." Allison wagged her eyebrows at Elana, smiling flirtatiously.

"Thank you." Elana barely managed to say though her giggles.

"Indeed." Sadie and Nili turned to smile at each other.

"Females!" Ilan just rolled his intriguing blue eyes and shook his head in disbelief. Oren pursed his lips and raising one eyebrow, turned to his sisters and said, "Ladies, behave. The party has not yet begun." He then turned his attention to Allison. "By the way, Princess Allison, can you direct me to The Furies?" Nili, Elana, Sadie and Ilan's shocked eyes were suddenly glued on Oren. Oren just flashed his boyish charm and grinned. It was then that the clairvoyant conversation began...

"Oren this is hardly the time! Besides she clearly has no interest in what you are prepared to offer her." Elana was first to object to his forwardness. "That's not true and you know it. She's into me otherwise—" Oren frowned but didn't turn his eyes on his sister. "Otherwise she would have made a shish-kabob out of you? Or maybe she just feels badly that you are dripping drool and trailing behind her like a fool." Ilan half chuckled as he too put his two scents in. "Or worse." Nili and Sadie said as one. "She's into me. There's nothing you can say that will convince me otherwise!" Oren's voice was fierce but playful, and with that, he severed his mental connection with his siblings.

Even though Allison was unaware of the silent conversation between them, it took her a moment to collect herself, for she was not prepared to address any inquiry about Meg. It took all of her will power to hide her uneasiness before answering as graciously as possible; "Tisiphone and her sisters stay in the warriors' wing. Just through there. I can summon them if you'd like."

"Oh. No, that's all right. Thanks just the same." Oren smiled as he stared briefly making a mental note of the hallway that led to Meg's chambers. His heart started to race just thinking of her. Although he had been forward in sharing his interest in Meg while she had been a guest in their home, she had never encouraged him but hadn't rejected him either. She was extraordinary and worthy of a prince such as him, he thought.

The enormous castle continued to fill with dear friends, and important royals from near and far. One guest however, was never meant to arrive, and yet there he stood among the crowds watching, listening, and plotting. He wore a long golden-brown hooded robe that flowed down to his feet, and beneath it, resting on his right hip, a ferocious black sword.

"My lord, we are ready." A small figure joined him from the side—her voice was fragile and soft, almost inaudible, and her face was also hidden in the darkness of her hood. Three more companions made their way to where he stood.

"Any sign of her yet?"

"No my lord, but we have spotted the child. She's bound to be here. After all, she can't miss her daughter's wedding."

"Shall we divide our efforts in finding her, my lord?" The three massive men asked in unison.

"No, I suspect she will come here to warn them about our arrival. Unfortunately for her, we've arrived ahead of schedule and she will provide us with the diversion we need. For now, we wait. I cannot maintain this shape for much longer, I will need to feed soon."

Two shadows seeking the library followed the infamous four, silently and swiftly headed toward one of the entrances of the enormous stone castle. As they neared the library, the voices that came from within almost brought tears of happiness and hope to Lady Elin as she took a deep breath and slowly pushed the door open.

King Ambrose with his five children and soon to be "son in law" sat around the room like scattered glass. Kane was on the right side of the room, surrounded by Orion, Saiph, Mei, Sirius, and Nigel, while Allison stood next to her father, lost in her own mind-babble. The windows swung inward and in came the three Elemental Malachim in a hushed burst of wind. "We regret to be the ones to inform you of some rather unpleasant new developments." Ari began as he fixed his gaze on Allison before continuing, "Your highnesses, Dorian has arrived and he is not alone."

Kane and Mei turned their attention to tiny gold and silver sparks that began to appear a few paces from the entrance to the library. The sparks numbers increased rapidly as they poured down, taking shape and revealing three petite silhouettes. A bright smile spread across Kane's face as he recognized one of the bodies before him. It was then that Mei became aware of Kane's feelings for Meg. He stared at Kane somewhat in shock, and then glanced in Allison's direction. She was too busy fighting to keep the wedding from being postponed to notice. Finally, his eyes came to rest on Meg. She looked directly at Mei calmly, but fully aware of Kane's gaze. Mei and Meg bonded in an invisible and private connection that united them momentarily. Through it, Meg welcomed him into her memories, allowing him to witness firsthand her relationship with Kane, followed by a clear reassurance that she would never do anything to taint her honor, dignity, or loyalty to him and his family. She then turned towards to Ari, Uri, and Nathaniel to join her warrior sisters on the other side of the room.

"The wedding must be put off." The Malachim kept saying, as Allison, shaking her head in disbelief, looked frantically from her father to the three Elementals.

"Sadly we agree. It's far too dangerous." Meg chimed in, looking straight at King Ambrose who was filled with concern for the wellbeing of his daughter.

Kane's eyes remained glued on Meg, unconsciously caressing her through his eyes, causing his body to ignite with desire for her once again. Mei felt sick as he witnessed Kane's salacious gesture. Without second-guessing himself, Mei summoned his brothers' attention. The four brothers glanced casually at Kane, able to only see a glimpse of his beast-like tendency. Each fought against the urge to walk over to Kane and strike him down for carelessly disrespecting their baby sister.

Drawings made by Dara M.A. Walnut Creek, California.

## About The Author

Seraphine Abrams began writing at an early age. From middle school up to college, she fascinated her teachers and entertained her peers with her imaginative short stories and essays. Her friends and family were the first ones to be captivated by the idea of the characters within this book.

In the winter of 2009, " _Kane And The Elven Realms_ " began to take shape and she began writing in early spring of 2010. The characters are the creation of her imagination, meshed with details found throughout mythology and legends. They were inspired by her love for the Supernatural-Spiritual beings in the Universe that have, throughout human history, appeared, disappeared, and have reappeared once again.
