Chapter Fifteen
With his feet propped up on the armrest, Jake lay back on the sofa studying the Kris. The intricate markings ran from the hilt to its tip, and he racked his brain, attempting to place the unique writing. From military weapons to sacred sacrificial tools, he’d seen hundreds of knives over the years, but never a rare blade like this one. With its curved and razor edging, he imagined that once stabbed into its victim, it would resist being withdrawn. Its unfamiliar magick hummed as he ran his fingertips over it.
The creak of a door opening drew his attention, and he glanced across the room. Quintus guided a shaky Cassandra toward the door. What the hell? Jake set the Kris down on his lap, studying the interaction. Quintus gave him a sly smile, and quickly returned his attention to the delicate human.
“Thank you, bella,” he crooned, cupping her cheek.
“Cass?” Jake called to her, concern in his tone.
“Jake,” she replied, her voice airy as if she’d just woken. “I…I was just leaving.”
“You all right?”
“I’m good. Text me tomorrow if you need to stay longer.”
“You’ve got to go now,” Quintus told her, placing her red pumps into her hands.
“I’ve got to go now,” she repeated.
“It’s all good,” the vampire told Jake, and then turned to Cassandra. “Until we meet again, my sweet.”
Jake shook his head, irritated by their interaction. As Quintus leaned in to her, Cassandra tilted her head to kiss him, and Jake’s eyes widened at the sight of the bite marks on her neck. Fucking Quintus. His blood boiled in anger. Although he had no romantic interest in Cassandra, he’d never meant her harm.
“What the hell is going on?” he asked.
“Just chill.” Quintus held up a dismissive hand. Pressing his lips to her cheek, he gave her a quick kiss and ushered her out the door.
“I thought you were getting a fucking donor.” Jake rolled his eyes and shook his head.
“Ah yes, well you see, she was a no show and the lovely Cassandra offered to assist me…”
“Cass doesn’t like vampires.”
“But I’m not just any vampire, my friend. And Cassandra, she’s not your ordinary human.”
“Yeah, okay, big man. You’re something special all right.” Jake lifted the knife, and set his focus on the object. “You better not have hurt her.”
“Seriously, wolf. Don’t you know me by now? I’d never hurt a hair on her precious head. She’s special.”
“Whatev. She looked dazed to me. What kind of fucking vamp mumbo jumbo did you lay on her?”
“She’s relaxed from the bite is all.” Quintus shrugged, and made his way to the mini bar. Rummaging through it, he retrieved a bottle of Pelligrino and twisted off the cap.
“I know what your bite feels like, asshole, and that’s not the look I had.”
“She’s human. It’s altogether different. I’m careful to restrain the energy that comes through but with humans…it’s always difficult to gauge what will happen their first time. But as you can see, she’s walking and talking. She’s brilliant. All’s good.”
“I’m serious as fuck, asshole. What did you do?”
“I didn’t do anything except feed. And I must say, she was delicious. But out of respect for your mongrel ass, that’s as far as it went.”
“I don’t want you eating my friends.”
“You let me eat Kai,” Quintus snapped back with a raised eyebrow and a grin. He turned to the bar and set the cap aside, taking a long draw of his water.
“I’m starting to regret it.” Jake eyed the raised scars that striped the vampire’s back then turned his attention back to the knife. Whatever had caused the injuries had been done before he’d been turned, but Jake was reluctant to ask.
“Cassandra is perfectly fine. And yes, she does seem to have a thing for vampires, and not in a good way.”
“You better not have forced those fangs on her.”
“Nothing of the sort. I told you. The donor was a no show. Nothing more, nothing less. She offered. I could see she was a little reluctant. Long story short, I offered to break her cherry. She accepted.” Quintus threw himself back into an oversized chair and propped his feet on an ottoman. He held up his hands defensively. “That’s all that happened. No sex if that’s what you’re worried about. Sadly.”
“Don’t take this the wrong way, because I’m going to be fully mated soon and don’t have an interest in Cass. It’s just that she’s helping us out and I don’t want to take advantage. She’s a business owner. A friend. A very human one. She’s innocent.”
“You’ve been with her?” Quintus asked.
“Yeah, but you know, it was once. I was out here trying to figure out what the hell was going on in Anzober Wolves. She was on vacation. We just kind of hit it off. But she was coming off a long term relationship. And I’m a wolf. I can’t go forming any hard core relationships with anyone. I know you vamps, y’all can make it with a human.”
“What’s Kai up to?” Quintus changed the subject. “We should probably flash out soon. Gotta get to the Elders…find Kasdeya.”
“I wish I knew more about this Kris. These markings. Have you seen them?”
“Yeah, I was looking at them earlier but I don’t recognize the language.”
“Ancient civilizations. They used symbols.”
“The wolf knows history?” Quintus chuckled.
“It’s a hobby. A while back I helped Leo out with some Mesoamerican history when they were having problems with a different demon. It’s my comfort zone. But this? I’d say it’s much older. Maybe 3000 BC. I’d guess a Mesopotamian language. Sumerian. Possibly Babylonian or Assyrian. The knife looks about five hundred years old if I had to guess, but whatever’s written on here is much older.”
“Some days,” Quintus laughed. “You think you know someone but nope.”
“Take this symbol. Now I’m not entirely sure what this means, but it looks like the Assyrian deity, Shedu.” Jake held up the Kris so Quintus could see it. “What do you see?”
“It looks like a lion. A little like a pixiu.”
“It’s very similar to Kai’s creature but not at all the same. I probably could decipher some of this if I had time to research. But time is something we don’t have a lot of right now.”
“I hope like hell those Elders know where that book is or have a clue about the knife.”
“Kasdeya won’t be easy to defeat. That backpack over there,” Jake looked to the satchel that sat beside a modern wall gaslit fireplace. “Cass tracked us down some weapons. Stakes won’t do us much good, but it can’t hurt to bring them. We’ll have to rely on our beasts.”
“Kai…she’s vulnerable.”
“Yes, but she’s also powerful. For all we know, she may be the one who takes down Kasdeya. But I'm still wondering about this Kris and how or if we should use it. Since we’ve met, Kai’s been able to control her powers more and others can’t detect what she is. So the question is, do we bring it? What if this is some sort of trick? What if Ilsbeth has us bringing this knife to a demon?”
“It’s possible. If she has some kind of demon trace in her…I don’t know.” Quintus shrugged. “We don’t want to hand over a five-hundred-year-old weapon to Kasdeya.”
“We’re bringing it,” Jake heard Kai say from behind him, and he sprang up onto his feet.
Words eluded him as he took in the sight of his spectacular mate. Her black leather jacket opened to a white form-fitting tank top tucked into tight shredded jeans. Although she wore an innocent smile, his wolf roared, reminding him of the danger that lurked under her delicate human form.
“For some reason Ilsbeth wanted me to have it,” Kai began. “I know I’ve been able to hide because of you, but there’s something about that knife. I found it. I’m not sure why or how, but I’m tied to it.”
“Look, I know you didn’t see what Ilsbeth did to Dimitri, but she almost killed him. I don’t trust her.” There was no way for Kai to comprehend the enormity of what the witch had done to his beta, nearly destroying his wolf. “For all we know, Ilsbeth sent us on a wild goose chase to get something she couldn’t get from Dominique the first time. There was a reason that asshole Mick picked Dominique to torture. I’m thinking he knew she had this object. For all we know, this thing could rain down hell upon all of us. Maybe unleash whatever fresh hell was sealed up in the cavern in New York.”
“It belongs to me,” Kai insisted. She crossed the room and stretched out her hand.
Anger seared through Jake at her dominance. His beast wouldn’t have it, but his humanity reminded him she wasn’t wolf. As he placed the hilt into her palm, the blade glowed, the etchings appearing to vibrate on its surface.
“What are you doing, Kai?” Jake asked, his senses on alert. His wolf growled, warning him it would hurt his mate. “I don’t think you should hold…”
Kai took a deep breath, lifting the athame into the air. The illumination faded as quickly as it had come. “I…I think…no, Jake.” Her eyes flashed to his. “This really is meant for me. I don’t know why or what it does.”
“I don’t think you should hold it at all. And it’s not just the cool glow thing you got going on. Maybe you were meant to find it. But there’s something…I just have this bad feeling it’s going to hurt you somehow.”
“Ah…I love to see you two squabble, new lovebirds and such.” Quintus’ eyes narrowed in on them, a corner of his lip drawn upward. “I’m not friends with your beta, so I have no emotional attachment. Given that, don’t take offense to what I’m about to say. Ilsbeth is no angel. She’s ancient. You both know she bargains for the items she needs. Vampire fangs. Fairy wings. Pixiu blood. Whatever the hell else she can get ahold of.” Quintus stood, and crossed the room, selecting a silver bag with his name on it. He rummaged through the satchel as he continued to speak. “She’s like a loan shark. She gives you something you want, and she takes something of yours. But the difference is that whatever you give her, you don’t know what it’s worth. It could be worth millions or nothing at all. I bet nine times out of ten when she makes these deals, she doesn’t know what the hell it’s worth either.”
Quintus retrieved a black t-shirt and stretched it over his head, smoothing his hand over his ruffled hair. “But because she’s older, she’s wise to the life game. She has the benefit of time. She knows there could be value in the future if there isn’t already. So Dimitri’s fur for example. That’s what she took, yes?”
“Yeah,” Jake confirmed.
“How’d she get it?” the vampire inquired.
“They were lovers. I’m pretty sure the idiot just gave it to her. They were always doing favors here and there. You know how she does…kinda like with the vamps. Kade’s over there all the time.”
“She knows damn well she’s never going to mate with a wolf. And I’ve gotta say, Dimitri’s game must be fucking on if he got her to the point where she was willing to take his beast. Not that I’m blaming him.” Quintus held up his palms defensively, and continued. “I’m just sayin’. And no offense to you either, bella, but women can be a crazy sort when they’re in love. Ilsbeth gets what she wants. And she wanted your beta. Again, I’m not saying it’s right, I’m just pointing out that Ilsbeth has a habit of getting what she wants. Which brings us to the Kris. She knows that Kai’s spell isn’t working. So maybe she says to herself, ‘I’ve got my eye on a certain Kris I’ve always wanted. This particular one can help her and me.’ It’s like a two-fer.”
“Maybe, but I think you’re giving her too much credit,” Jake replied.
“Okay, look at it this way. Take me for example. I’m helping you both. I’ve looked out for Kai. Does that mean I’m nice all the time? A regular do-gooder? Yeah. No. Not even fucking close.”
“But Jax trusted you. You and he have a history. So even when you had me by the short hairs in your creepy ass bar, I still was thinking,” Jake paused and gave a chuckle, “I was thinking, ‘What a fucking asshole’. Point taken. I didn’t trust you.”
“Kade trusts Ilsbeth. And what happened at the club?” Quintus laughed. “Don’t be a pussy.”
“Fuck you.” Jake glanced at Kai and nodded. “He’s still an asshole. Don’t let the suave Dracula bullshit fool you.”
“The point of this is that Ilsbeth, while she may be a bitch, and possibly evil, she’s not all bad. Not one hundred percent.”
“I think you’re off base on this one. You don’t know her like I do.”
“There’s something about that Kris that responds to Kai.”
“It’s not even gold. You guys know I can manipulate gold…but this? It’s what? Pewter? No, there’s something…a reason I was supposed to find it,” Kai insisted.
“I’m not doubtin’ that, sweetheart. It’s the intention I’m worried about.” Jake released an audible sigh. “Okay, we take the Kris. But I’m telling you both, I have a bad feeling about it. Here, give it back to me. I’ll put it in my backpack.”
Jake pointed to a large shopping bag sitting next to the door. In a few short strides, he snapped it up and shook out the black camo canvas sack, placing it on the bar. “Not what I used to use in the Navy, but it’ll work.”
He reached inside the bag again and retrieved another item. Tossing the tissue paper aside, Jake unveiled a metal box and set it on the counter. He flicked open the hinge and stared down at the black beauty.
“What’s that gun for?” Kai’s eyes widened.
“You do know you’re going to see a vampire demon goddess, right? That isn’t going to do you much good.” Quintus rolled his eyes.
“Yeah, I’ve had my fair share of fun with demons,” Jake said, recalling how he’d shot at one that had attacked Kade’s fiancée, Sydney. The human detective had also fired off several rounds, but none could save her from the demonic force. “Believe me, I know it’s not going to take out Kasdeya. A bullet might not kill a vamp, but it’ll slow em’ down for sure.”
“It’s true. A few strategically placed shots will knock down your average vampire,” Quintus conceded. “Hope you’re a helluva shooter though, because if you don’t hit an artery, you’re just going to piss them off.”
“I’m not an amateur, bite boy. No worries, I’m on it. I also got you both a few concealable stakes.” Jake checked the ammo magazine, and clicked inside the gun. He scooped up the remaining cartridges and tossed them inside his backpack.
“As you’ve most kindly pointed out, I’m a vampire. I don’t need a weapon. I am a weapon,” Quintus sniffed.
“Everyone can use a weapon, Quint. It’s backup. Just in case. These little guys? No bigger than a pen. Depress a button here.” Jake clicked it and a sharp pointed stake ejected.
“I don’t need it,” he insisted.
“Just fucking take one.” Jake tossed it at him and Quintus snatched it out of the air, inspecting the small projectile. He handed one to Kai, who slipped it inside her jacket pocket. Once again, he delved into the bag and quickly retrieved and unfolded a shoulder harness. He made quick work of slipping it on and clipped in his gun.
Jake focused on the Kris, and withdrew a leather knife roll from the bag. He picked up the athame, and within seconds, he’d rolled it up and secured the ties.
“Here,” Kai said, handing him his leather jacket.
As he reached for it, his hand brushed over hers. The touch of her soft skin reignited his desire and his heated gaze met Kai’s. Mate. Jake wondered how the hell he’d ever lived without her, and inwardly laughed at his ridiculous state. Over the years, he’d enjoyed teasing the hell out of every wolf who got sucked into mating, and now he was helpless to resist the attraction.
“Hey. You all can play kissy face when this shit is all over. It’s been nightfall for about thirty minutes. Who knows how long this is going to take us?” Quintus reminded him.
Jake ignored the vampire, and pulled her toward him, his lips capturing hers. His tongue swept inside her mouth, tasting her like a man who’d been starved.
“Fuck you guys. Okay then. Do whatever you want.” Quintus shook his head, his nose crinkled in disgust.
Jake tore his lips from his mate’s. Embracing her, he whispered in her ear. “We’ll finish this later, sweetheart.” He pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, and slipped on his coat.
“I’m ready,” Jake declared, giving Quintus a broad smile, enjoying how he’d annoyed the ancient vampire.
“’Bout fucking time.” Quintus turned to Kai. “I can flash us anywhere but I need a location.”
“It doesn’t work like that. I told you. We have to meditate to be drawn to the Elders.”
“Are you serious?” Quintus asked.
“Come on, big guy. Y’all know you’re lovin’ every minute of this.”
“Yeah, it’s been a good time,” Quintus replied, his voice thick with sarcasm.
“You weren’t complaining on the plane.” Kai winked at him, and smiled at Jake. “Come on. There’s room over here near the window. The moon is out tonight. The lunar pull will help us with our thoughts.”
“I can’t even believe I’m doing this new age shit,” Quintus complained.
“Haven’t you ever done yoga?” She asked.
“I’m good right here.” Quint nodded, watching Kai settle onto the floor.
“You need to get out more.” Jake slung his drawstring bag over his shoulders and joined Kai. “Get your ass over here. We don’t have all day.”
“Fine. This better work.” Quintus sat, placing his hands onto his bent knees. “Now what?”
“I’m not that experienced at materialization, so once we start to go, if you both could lend me your energy, I’d appreciate it. I think maybe we should join hands.”
“Are we supposed to say a spell or anything?” Quintus asked, reaching for Kai and Jake.
“I think it’s like she said. They come for us. So let’s hope like hell they still want Kai.” Jake held on to both his mate and Quintus.
“It’s not about wanting me. They’re my Elders. It’s about whether I’m deserving of their knowledge.” Kai took a deep breath and closed her eyes. “We have to clear our minds. Let peace fill the space. Think of nothing else. I will ask for help.”
Jake glanced to Quintus who rolled his eyes. He shook his head no at the vampire. When Quintus finally shut his eyes, Jake followed suit. Knowing Kai would sense his annoyance, he emptied his thoughts.
“That’s it. All is quiet. Just let me go…I’ll find them.”
Jake relaxed into the moment, but his wolf searched for his mate. In his mind’s eye, he saw her magnificent creature rear up. Her mighty wings unfolded and began to flap. The wind kicked up and the great beast took off in flight. The Alpha growled, sprinting after her. The harder he ran the further up she went. Up, up, up into the sky, she soared. So far away but not out of sight, Jake kept watching, his heart pounding in his chest. His anxiety rose as she flew away, disappearing into the clouds. He yelled her name over and over, his paws lifting off the ground.
“Jake…Jake…” Kai’s voice woke him from the nightmare, his eyes blinded from the light and he squinted. The scent of his mate told him she was near, but he couldn’t see her.
“Jake,” Kai repeated.
As the Alpha’s blurred vision cleared, he stretched his neck from side to side. A rush of nausea rolled through him and he turned to cough.
“Hey, you all right?” he heard Quintus ask.
A firm hand brought new energy into his body, and he blinked his eyes open to find the vampire looming over him. Kai’s warm touch brushed his cheek and his gaze landed on hers.
“What the ever loving fuck just happened?” he asked, breathless.
Quintus extended his hand to him and Jake reached for it. Kai wrapped her arm around his elbow, standing as he did.
“Wolves. You’re so sensitive,” Quintus commented, brushing the dirt off his jeans.
“Fuck off, Quint. I should have left your ass on that plane.”
“Silence!” A loud voice bellowed.
Jake went on alert, withdrawing his gun.
“No, Jake, don’t,” Kai begged, her hand tugging at his arm.
“You have no need for that here,” the strange voice said, its tone calm.
Jake glanced to the cathedral ceiling as the room slowly brightened. Hundreds of miniature recessed lights peppered above like stars. The walls appeared to undulate in a rippling waterfall, but he couldn’t discern the cause of their movement. A candle in the far corner came to life, and he took sight of a tall figure as it turned to face them.
“Thank you for bringing us, sir,” Kai said, bowing to the man.
“Times are troubled. Your sister’s still missing.”
“I went to Kasdeya, but she…she…”
“I am aware of your actions. You gave her your blood,” he said, disappointment in his voice. “You have made her stronger.”
“I’m so sorry, sir. I was weak. I needed Shilan.”
“Never believe the lies of a serpent,” he told her.
“These are my friends. Jake. Quintus. They will help me this time. I promise I won’t do…”
“Promises mean nothing,” another voice shouted out of the darkness.
“Who are you? What’s your name?” Jake asked, keeping his gun clutched in his hand. The Elder emitted an otherworldly essence that tainted the air but he failed to identify it.
“We have no name,” a different voice answered from the shadows.
“We are all names.” The faceless Elder stepped forward, coming within a foot of the Alpha.
“We mean you no harm,” Jake told him. “But if you hurt Kai, I won’t think twice about using this gun on your ass. I don’t need to know who you are or why you’re all hiding in the dark. I can find your location just by the sound of your voice. We’re only here for your help. We need more info about Kasdeya and to get help finding the book.”
“I think I’ve changed my mind about the gun. Good call.” Quintus sighed. Stepping next to Kai, he took a protective position with Jake flanked at her other side.
“Put the gun away,” Kai admonished him.
“Sorry sweetheart, but it’s either the gun or I’m going wolf. And right now I need to talk, so gun it is.”
“I need the book. The one my parents gave me. I left it…” she began.
“You mean this book.” The Elder reached into his robe and lifted it into the air.
“Oh Goddess. You have it,” Kai exclaimed.
“You were careless.”
“I’m not experienced at this. I don’t know what I’m doing. I promise you I’d never deliberately lose it. My sister,” Kai’s voice cracked with emotion, “Shilan…I need to find her. I’d do anything.”
“Anything?” the man asked, pacing.
“Of course. Why do you think I’m here? Kasdeya. I know she has something to do with this. She’s a demon and…”
“Shh. Do not speak her name in here. Even the mention of her threatens our sanctuary. Your sister…”
“Shilan,” Kai said.
“Is very special. Like you, dear pixiu.”
“Yes. I know magick is in her.”
“She’s not just a witch. Like you, she was born of the Gods.” The Elder paced, and going to the altar, he retrieved a shiny gold coin and held it in the air. “You must find her but I’m afraid your sacrifice must be great. The demon mistress who had a hand in her disappearance, she will not easily give her back. So I ask again, what sacrifice are you willing to make?”
“We don’t have time for all this. If you could maybe just hand that book there over to Kai, we’ll be on our way.” Jake paused, considering that he couldn’t be sure if they were still in San Francisco, or had traveled to an alternative dimension. “We need to know where…the mistress is. Quintus here is a vampire. I’m an Alpha. It’s time to take her down, but we need a little help here.”
“I know what you are.” His focus went to Kai. “You’re her mate. But to split the deity, the sacrifice must be made by the pixiu alone.”
“What the hell are you talking about?” Jake growled. Sacrifices in the paranormal world generally consisted of spilled blood, which often included death. There was no way he’d let anything happen to Kai.
“You have the Kris,” the Elder stated.
“You know about the Kris?” Kai asked, excitement in her voice.
“The sacrifice must come from the Kris.”
“What are you saying? Are we supposed to use it on the demon?” Quintus asked.
“Sometimes things aren’t as they should be. Death can bring beauty. Give of yourself and you can destroy the deity. Destroy the deity and you can destroy the one who took your sister.”
“We don’t have a lot of time. We’ve got to kill the deity, find Kai’s sister and then I’ve got to go see about my pack. This is going to take all damn night if you don’t just tell us.” Jake grew impatient with his enigmatic sermon.
“Ah, your wolves, Alpha. They may not be who they appear to be.” The Elder held the coin, flipping it with his fingers. He closed it inside his fist and then opened it, revealing a stone. “Sometimes the shiniest elements are nothing more than a rock.”
“Nice trick,” Jake commented. “Please. Look, Kai’s life is at stake. We don’t have time.”
“Now you grasp the concept. It’s an illusion. A sleight of hand. But will you see it, Alpha for what it is?” He reached into the air, and the book reappeared in his hands. “Do not lose this again, Kai. Your mother and father treasured its contents, as should you.”
“Thank you, sir. I’m so sorry,” Kai said as she took it from him. “But please…the mistress…we need to go to her. My sister.”
“And go you will.” The Elder waved his hand and the wall to their right flared with light. The luminescent waves transformed into an arch. “You may pass into her lair, but go with caution.”
Jake glanced at the mirrored doorway, and then to Quintus and Kai. “This may be the clearest sign he’s given us all day.”
“Dearest Kai. Remember the Kris,” the Elder told her, darkness creeping in on his face. “Sacrifice must come from you.”
“Okay, people, I think it’s time to go. Kai, stay close to me.” Jake turned to the Elder and gave a quick bow, following the etiquette of his mate. “Let’s go get that bitch and your sister.”
Jake reached into the portal with Kai’s hand in his. As he passed into the abyss, cold surrounded him like he’d stepped into a crypt. His stomach tightened at his first breath of rancid air, and he prayed like hell they’d come out alive.
“Hey Quint, if this all goes to hell, be prepared to zap us all outta here,” Jake told the vampire. “Kai, how about you give me the book? I’ll keep it in my pack so nothing happens to it.” Jake opened his bag, allowing her to drop it inside. Clinching it shut, he slipped it back on his shoulder.
“Where the hell are we?’ Quintus inquired in a tense whisper.
“I don’t remember being here before,” Kai told them. “Last time, I was at her house in Monterey. This place…I don’t know where we are. It smells awful.”
“Jesus Christ, is that what I think it is?” the Alpha asked, aware of what the answer would probably be.
“Rotting flesh. Humans,” Quintus said.
“Oh Goddess.” Kai held her breath for as long as possible, trekking into the darkness. Although her preternatural vision gave her the ability to see at night, the magick blurred her vision. Exhaling loudly, she fought the urge to breathe through her mouth lest she taste death on her tongue.
“Holy hell,” Jake coughed, turning back to check on Quintus and Kai.
“Dare I ask how you know it’s humans?” Kai asked. “You know, as opposed to something else.”
“Hundreds of years of practice,” Quintus laughed.
“Tell me he’s joking,” Kai said, her sight trained on Jake.
“I’m vampire, bella. I know you haven’t had enough experience with the supernatural, to have time to learn the finer nuances of the different beings.”
“He was human,” Jake commented. “It looks like this might break out soon. Up there. I see light.”
“I was very much mortal. In essence, I died. I am reborn. And in doing so, the magick entered my soul, a rechargeable battery if you will. But we require blood to survive. Without the life essence from which we originally came, we would cease to exist.”
“I get that part. But how can you tell that’s human versus an animal carcass or wolf for that matter?”
“When we die, our cells retain the knowledge of our death. The same way you can tell the scent of strawberries from blueberries…it’s simply an instinct to us. You cannot eat a dead human. And if that fails to imprint, that’s a problem. Take someone like me. How old do you think I am?”
“You’re young, attractive. Look as though you maybe died in your thirties?”
“Yes, I did. But hundreds of years have passed. Wars. Pestilence.”
“Killing,” Jake added, his expression hidden.
“Well, yes. I’m a vampire, not an angel.”
“What’s that supposed to mean? I’ve met a few bad motherfucking angels.” Jake trod onward, not missing a step.
“You know what I mean. Does everything have to be literal with you wolves?” Quintus shot back.
“So you kill people on a regular basis?” Kai asked.
“How the hell does me identifying death turn into a discussion about my mercenary skills?” Quintus shook his head, keeping a careful watch on her as she walked ahead of him.
“So you kill people for money?” Kai tilted her head to get a better view at the light streaming into the tunnel. Fresh air drifted inside, dissipating the rancid odor. “Thank Goddess there’s an exit.”
“Not anymore.”
“You’re kidding me, right?” Jake laughed. “Here we go…let’s hear it, Quint. I should have known you’d done that for a living.”
“It was many years ago. I learned from my sire. He wasn’t just into imports. It wasn’t as if I had a choice. If it brings you solace, I killed a lot of assholes. It’s not like I don’t have a conscience.”
“I’m not judging. Hey, here it is. It’s a door of some kind.” Jake turned the metal handle, but quickly released it, staring at his hand.
“What’s wrong?” Kai asked, grabbing Jake’s arm to inspect his palm.
“It’s silver,” Quintus noted.
“You’re both allergic?”
“Yeah, I guess you could say that. It’ll weaken both of us. The door’s locked. So trying to use our powers to get through it? It’s not happening.”
“But maybe I could…” she began.
“No way, sweetheart. You are not going in there alone. We stick together. Sit down here a second. The silver…” Jake grunted as he dropped to one knee.
“Are you all right?” Kai sensed his weakness; his wolf trod slowly, attempting to rally.
“The magick in here. The wards are heavy. Can you feel it?” he asked.
Quintus closed his eyes, placing his palm on the wall. “This place. It’s meant for vampires. I can feel it. The silver. It’s been manipulated by vampires. Something’s going to happen here. If we can get to the other side, I think we’ll find her.”
“I just need a minute. Let me think,” Jake said. “Maybe we should have a look at the book before we go in. Kai, is there anything you remember that might help us out here?”
“It’s been years. Here, let me get it out.” Kai reached into his backpack, retrieving the book.
“Got it?” Jake asked.
“Yes. Can you shine a light down onto this?” Kai squinted as Jake slid on his cell phone, the bright light illuminating the scratched leather binding. She traced her finger along the designs, recalling the fear it had instilled in her as a child. Don’t ever lose it, Mama had warned. It will protect you, Papa had said.
“Now that’s a book cover,” Jake half joked.
“Pagan.” Quintus crouched to get a closer look.
“Eye of Horus.” Kai untangled the delicate strings that formed its lock.
“It always freaked me out as a kid,” Jake confessed. “But it’s a good one. Symbolizes healing.”
“Wards off evil,” Quintus added.
“My papa always told me it would protect me.” Kai gently pried opened the book and flipped through it. Each page was filled with colorful etchings, some covered in text, detailing spells and hexes.
“It’s almost like something a witch would have,” Quintus noted.
“You said your sister is a witch. Has she seen this?” Jake asked.
“No. My parents gave me the book. I kept it hidden. Her magick exists but it’s barely noticeable. And besides, Shilan never practiced the craft…because of me.”
“This definitely looks like it belongs to a witch. I’m not sure what a shifter would need with…hey, wait.” Jake reached to help support the book.
“What?” Kai asked. Guilt had wormed its way into her psyche, and she’d spaced, losing her concentration on the book’s contents.
“Go back a couple of pages. Just a little further. There.” His finger landed on a page corner. “That looks like…”
“The Kris,” Kai whispered. The miniature sketch lacked the details of the symbols written on it, but the s-shaped knife was clearly drawn.
“What’s it say?” Jake asked.
“It’s Chinese. It says…a rough translation of it, ‘Look within for sacrifice. Cleave open your fear’.”
“What the hell is that supposed to mean?” Jake scrubbed over his beard in thought.
“I don’t know.” Quintus sighed and pressed to his feet, and attempted to spy through the hole in the door. “Doesn’t matter much. Maybe try using it on her.”
“Stab her with it?” Jake stood, and reached to help Kai up off the floor.
“Sacrifice. That’s the same word the Elder used. I can’t see how stabbing her is much of a sacrifice,” Kai said. “That seems like a good thing.”
“Shh,” Quintus held his fingers to his lips,
Kai’s heart pounded in her chest as a faint echo of music filtered into the tunnel. The light pouring into the tunnel flickered, morphing into a dim illumination. A loud click resounded and the door swung open, revealing an arena. Voices grew louder as several black figures emerged in the distance.
“What’s happening?” Kai asked, her voice wavering.
“It’s her,” Jake replied.
“She’s here. This has all been an illusion,” Quintus stated.
“The Elder. Remember the stone,” Jake reminded them. Kai handed him the book, and he shoved it into his backpack. Light reflected in his eyes as he met Kai’s gaze. “Stay close, sweetheart. If anything happens and I need to shift, take the Kris. If you need to shift first, I’ve got your back.”
Kai nodded, fear surging as Jake stepped over the threshold into the alternative reality. Her breath caught, her eyes drawn to the stone arches. Gothic murals depicted the angels. A cathedral? Fucking figures, she thought. Kai suspected the demon mocked the Goddess, transforming a place of worship into a blasphemous spectacle. As she caught sight of an enormous stage, her pulse raced. No, no, no. Kasdeya thrived on attention. The anticipation of the kill was just as satisfying as the act. When she’d bitten Kai, she’d done it in front of her court, laughing as she drained her. Kai blinked, shaking off the memory that still haunted her.
A strong hand squeezed hers, and she jolted back into the moment. As her eyes locked on Jake’s, his powerful energy seeped into her pores, calming her nerves. Although he never spoke a word, she heard her Alpha’s voice. You’re all right. Keep close. She swallowed the terror that threatened to paralyze her, and kept moving.
A hooded stranger bumped into Kai, and she stumbled. As the figure disappeared into the crowd, she steadied her feet and increased her pace, determined to stay near Jake. No matter how many of the vampires ignored them, Kai had a sickening feeling they knew they’d arrived. Like a cat watching minnows in a pond, Kasdeya played with them, waiting to strike.
Jake backed up against a column, and they stopped, sizing up their surroundings. Deafening thrash metal pounded as a red velvet curtain crept open, revealing the stage. Kai’s eyes widened at the sight of the familiar female. Cassandra. Her cream-colored sundress had been torn wide open, her nude body dangling from the wooden x-shaped St. Andrew’s cross. She was restrained, and her reddened eyes bulged, blood dripping from puncture wounds dotted across her body. Cassandra appeared lifeless, but Kai suspected she’d passed out from the torture.
“Oh Goddess,” Kai whispered.
“Goddammit,” Quintus muttered, his sight set on the human.
Jake stepped forward, and Kai grabbed onto his jacket but the leather slipped through her fingers. She glanced to Quintus, who bared his fangs, remaining at Kai’s side.
“Kasdeya!” Jake growled, his eyes glowing like red hot embers. “Where are you? Show your face, you fucking coward.”
Kai screamed as two vampires rushed toward him. Without missing a beat, Jake withdrew his weapon. Firing off two rounds, he clipped each of them in the neck, and they dropped to the ground.
“Any of the rest of you want a go at me? Because I’m itching to kill every last one of you assholes.”
“Wolves,” a female mused, her voice echoing throughout the chamber as the din silenced at her presence.
A tall lanky woman emerged from the darkness onto the stage. A chrome spiked crown sat atop her red mane; perfect locks spiraled down her back. Black eyeliner darkened her eyes, her bow lips painted a deep crimson. Lights reflected off her black latex mini dress, the wide lace sleeves brushing her bony wrists. She towered over them. Wearing five-inch pumps, she effortlessly glided across the stage.
“We’re here for Shilan, you three-headed bitch. Where is she?” Jake yelled.
Kai’s heart pounded at the sight of her mate alone in the sea of blood-sucking vermin. Her creature roared, refusing to leave his side. She went to move forward but Quintus blocked her with a strong arm.
“Stay back,” he warned.
“This is my fight,” she insisted.
He shook his head no, but again she persisted. “I’m going. My sister. My mate.”
“He’s going to kick my ass,” Kai heard Quintus comment but she didn’t bother with a response as she took off toward Jake.
“Where is she?” Jake repeated.
“I want my sister back!” Kai screamed.
“Ah, the shy little pixiu finally arrives. I’ve been waiting for you. Hmm,” she hummed with an evil smile. Kasdeya slid her finger down over Cassandra’s breast, pinching a bloody nipple, eliciting an ear-piercing scream. Kasdeya gave a wicked laugh and licked the sticky substance off her thumb. “She’s been fun to play with but hardly as tasty as you were. You lasted much longer.” She sighed. “Until you flew away…disappeared like the wind.”
“Tell us where she is or you’re going to die,” Jake stated, aiming the gun at her.
“Your bullets will not work on me,” she sneered.
“You’re right.” Jake spied a vampire standing in the wings, and fired off a shot. It fell to the ground. “But it works on your buddies.” A vampire sped towards him from behind, and Jake swiftly turned and aimed. The bullet tore through his groin and he fell screeching onto the concrete. “I can do this all damn night long.”
“But you can’t take me. That’s what matters, isn’t it? I’m afraid I’m stronger than all of you.”
“Not me,” Kai said, stepping forward. She closed her eyes, her anger rushing to the surface. An unearthly glow illuminated the room, emanating from her skin. Her beast reared up, attempting to morph. Dark magick seized the creature. It whined in agony, cowering, thwarted from transforming. Kai collapsed to the ground, and her eyes flashed to Kasdeya, who laughed wildly in response. “What did you do? She did something.”
“You gave me your blood.” The demon mistress sucked another finger into her mouth, releasing it with a pop. “A spell. I used it to stop your beast from disrupting my sanctuary. You’re powerless in here. It’s a beautiful thing.” She gave an eerie smile and glared at Quintus. “And you? Once upon a time you may have been able to kill me. That was before the merge. Not anymore.”
“You mean when you murdered Dominique’s children?” Quintus asked.
“The human souls were a minor cost for my transformation. I don’t normally kill children.” She looked to Cassandra, and grinned. “Only every now and then. Life gets mundane.”
“Innocents,” Jake growled.
“Exactly.” Kasdeya set her eyes on Jake, cocking a hip and jutting her breasts forward. With a flirtatious smile, she flipped her hair and licked her lips.
“Sorry bitch…not happenin’,” he told her.
“Stop stalling,” Quintus said, his voice terse.
“Where’s her sister?” Jake pressed.
“I’m going to kill you,” Kai screamed, boiling with rage.
“I gotta tell you, Kasdeya. I know you’re all demoned out right now, but this isn’t going to end well for you. You see Quint back there. He’s going to take out every last one of these vampires.” Jake smiled at her. “Then I’m going to shift and take you out. You’re not the first demon I’ve helped send back to hell.”
“The only one here who could have touched me is Kai…but the great pixiu has lost her wings. It is I who will make you a deal. Give me the Kris.”
Kai sucked a breath at the mention of it. She glanced at Jake but he remained focused on Kasdeya.
“The Kris belongs to me,” Kai said, her voice shaken but firm.
“Give me the Kris and I will tell you where your sister is,” Kasdeya told her.
“Take this.” Jake removed his backpack and slid it to Kai, preparing to shift.
“Poor Cassie. I’d hate to see her suffer any more.” Kasdeya snapped her fingers and two women approached. They dropped to their knees, bared their fangs, and sank them deep into Cassandra’s thighs. A loud scream echoed throughout the cathedral.
“Stop it!” Kai yelled as she fumbled to open the bag. She glanced to Jake, who shifted before her eyes. Her breath caught at the sight of his spectacular black wolf.
“So in love with the Alpha. It would be a shame to kill you both,” Kasdeya sang. “But I do what I must.” Kasdeya released a hideous cackle as she ordered her minions to attack. “Kill them!”
Kai clutched the backpack as vampires rushed at her from all directions. Quintus shoved her into a corner, and systematically began killing them, ripping into their flesh with his fangs. Blood sprayed over Kai as, one by one, he shredded their bodies. The black wolf leapt onto the stage, growling, attacking the two vampires who drank from Cassandra. Separating them from their victim, he tore open their necks, their blood draining onto the stage.
Reaching inside Jake’s bag, Kai untied the leather knife roll. She wrapped her hand around its hilt, and lifted the Kris into the air. She slung the pack over her arm, determined to keep the book safe.
Blood splattered in slow motion as Quintus continued his assault, but Kai focused on the blade. The symbols danced, and she recalled the Elder’s words, Sacrifice must come from you.
Kai looked to Kasdeya, whose face appeared to shift from vampire to demon, horns protruding from her head. The spell they’d undertaken, killing Dominique’s children, had created the demon. A triad, she was three beings in one. It made her strong. Invincible. If Kai could somehow reverse it, if she could separate them, she reasoned they’d be vulnerable.
Kai’s thoughts drifted to her book, and the picture of the Kris. Look within for sacrifice. Cleave open your fear. Kasdeya wanted the Kris. She wanted it to protect her. Maybe Dominique knew the truth? She knew that one day the Kris could be used to destroy Kasdeya. Maybe she’d gone looking for a pixiu to destroy her?
It belongs to me. The sacrifice must be mine. Killing Kasdeya with the Kris was no sacrifice, she knew. It had to mean something else. Sacrifice. Self-sacrifice. Blood must be spilled and it shall be mine. Kai’s heart pounded in her chest at the realization of what she needed to do, but there was no other choice.
As her eyes went to the stage, Kasdeya flew at Jake, stabbing her talon fingernails deep into his fur. Her Alpha went wild, snapping, but failed to shake the demon.
Kai swallowed her fear, resigned herself to her fate, and turned the blade toward her abdomen, tears streaming down her face. She silently prayed that when it was all said and done, she’d survive. But if she didn’t, the loss of her life would be worth it to save her Alpha and sister. The world would be a safer place, the demon sent to hell.
Forgive me, my Alpha. Kai held her breath, her eyes catching Jake’s as she plunged the Kris into her stomach. Her eyes widened, the caustic athame slicing into her, releasing magick into the night. She cried out as blood poured from her lips, her eyes rolled backward as she crumpled to the ground. Her face slammed on the concrete, and she blinked, her vision blurring.
With the Kris lodged deep within her abdomen, Kai heard the ear-piercing screech. Kasdeya writhed on the stage, immobilized by a magenta haze. Kai thought she was hallucinating, as a large brown wolf split out of the demon mistress and sprinted across the room. Jake went to chase, but hesitated, instead leaping off the stage toward Kai, weaving through the piles of dead vampires. Kasdeya’s skin peeled away, and a short bald man splintered away from her, his body disintegrating instantly as it struck the wooden planks. Kasdeya’s mouth opened wide, giving a deafening howl, and materialized into the night.
Kai choked, her lungs filling with blood. As death beckoned, despair blanketed her mind. Shilan remained missing, and Kasdeya had escaped, as had the wolf. As darkness closed in around her, she heard her Alpha call her. Kai. Don’t leave me. Life drained from her body, and she mouthed the words that played inside her heart, never hearing a sound as death claimed her soul. I love you.