Alamir: Blood of Kaos Series - Book One

by Nesa Miller

  He wasn’t exactly sure where he was going. His inner compass kept pointing him west, no matter what the blonde nag in his head said. However, he found if he didn’t concentrate too hard on his direction, he could veer in a westerly fashion without causing himself too much discomfort. By making a dash up through Asia, moving in a zig-zag formation, it wasn’t long before he landed in Germany. Upon reaching Berlin, he grabbed a drink from a dockworker in a local bar and downed it. He had picked up a few names during his journey, such as Dar and Inferno. He knew they had something to do with the UWS clan, but wasn’t certain which of them would give him answers. Letting out a loud belch, he resumed his sprint over the continent, ready to demand answers from a certain blonde.

  In no time, a great castle loomed before him. The heat in his veins was not as strong today, but something about this place drew him in. Walking through the gates, he headed to the front door, lifted the massive knocker, and let it bang against the cast iron strike plate. Getting no response, he did it again. There were people here. He could hear their muffled voices on the other side of the door. He turned the knob. Unchallenged, Freeblood stepped inside.

  “Oh, yeah. This is the place.”

  “Who the hell do you think you are?” A man with wild hair, not much older than himself, asked, his hand going to the hilt of his sword. “You can’t just walk in here.”

  “I guess the door knocker’s just for looks, huh?”

  “Who are you?” The man stalked toward him.

  “Freeblood. You?”

  “This is a private residence.”

  “Hence why I knocked.” He shook his head, sensing the futility of the current conversation. “I’m looking for a girl. Etain, I think her name-”

  “You know Etain?”

  “I know I didn’t stutter.” He darted behind the man and moonwalked past him. “I have questions. She has answers.”

  Freeblood heard footsteps behind him.

  “Found your way back, I see.”

  He turned, looking up at the biggest man he’d ever seen, dressed in black leathers, sporting two serious blades on his back, plus a fancy one on his hip. “No thanks to Etain. Do you know her?”

  The big man looked past Freeblood at the wild-haired one. “I’ve heard the name.”

  Is that a grin on his face? Did I say something funny?

  A blonde elf walked up, taking the funny man’s attention away. “Linq, we found her.”

  Freeblood scowled as another came along.

  “When do we leave?” This one was shorter, had brown hair, and had human ears. He cast a questioning look at Freeblood.

  “As soon as you tell Spirit,” said the big one.

  “Ack, she already knows I’ll be-”

  Freeblood jumped back as the big man swung his fist, knocking the new guy out cold.

  “Freeblood, help me lay him on the couch.”

  “What?” How the hell does he know my name? “Uh… Oh, yeah.” Wary of these strange men, he thought it prudent to play along until he found out where to find Etain.

  “That was extreme,” the elf said.

  “Extreme measures for an extreme man. You know he wouldn’t stay behind otherwise.” The big man shot Freeblood a steely look. “We’ve met, but I haven’t the time to explain. You stay here until we get back, and do not cause trouble.”

  “When? I’m pretty sure I’d remember someone like you, and I don’t remember ever meeting you. I want to see Etain.”

  Crazy hair ran interference, dropping an arm across his shoulders. “Freeblood… Is that your name?”

  “Yeah. You gonna tell me where she is?”

  “Let me introduce myself. I am Wolfe. Have you sworn to a clan yet?”

  Nursing a sore jaw, and pissed as hell, Inferno spotted five riders headed toward Laugharne flying a banner emblazoned with a sword, its hilt the image of a dragon’s wings, tail curled down the blade.

  Fucking hell.

  “We have company, love.”

  Spirit joined him at the window. “Goddess of us all. What now?”

  “I’ll go have a nosey. Maybe I can get rid of ‘em.” He looked over at Freeblood. “Keep yer arse in here and don’t get in the way.” He pecked Spirit on the cheek and went outside, followed by Felix and Ruby.

  Seeing Inferno, the riders stopped. A stern woman of average height spoke. “Where is Dar?” Pale hair and dark leathers accentuated her glaring grey eyes.

  “Aren’t we Mary Sunshine today? Who the hell’s askin’?” He bloody well knew the reputation of each one, but was damned if he’d give them the satisfaction of letting them know it.

  “Surely you recognize the LOKI banner. We are the High Council and have come to collect our chieftain,” answered Pyro, Commander of the Blood Warriors faction of the clan, and the only man in the group.

  Although not fond of the demon lord, something about this group rubbed Inferno in an even worse way. “LOKI. It’s been a long time. Must be serious to have the five of ya leave yer cozy castle and come this far.”

  The blonde woman huffed. “We have clan business that doesn’t concern UWS. Stop wasting our time and tell us where he is.”

  Inferno scratched his chin. “Well, see, there’s the problem. The fact yer standing in front of the UWS chieftain on UWS land makes it our business. Now, if ya’d like to get off yer high horses, maybe we could have a civil conversation.”

  Swee, the healer of the clan, gave him a sheepish smile. He remembered the small, brunette woman dressed in green-leather armor as one of the more reasonable members. “Apologies, Inferno. We meant no disrespect.”

  He eyed the rest of the group, knowing the apology came from her alone. He’d love to have a go at the tossers, get them in the dirt and show ‘em a thing or two. He looked back at the castle, seeing his beautiful wife standing in their new bay window, and thought again.

  “The man’s not here. I don’t know when or if he’ll be back.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “Family business, ya see.”

  A look passed among them. “He has no family,” Pyro said. “Tell us where he is and we’ll leave you in peace.”

  “He’ll be back when his business with his brother is done.” Inferno spread his feet farther apart, ready to argue his point. “If ya insist on being bullheaded idiots, the lot of ya can cool your heels down at the shore. Or…if ya can behave as noble Alamir, then ya can come wait in me lounge.”

  Swee spoke on behalf of the others. “The long trip has made us forget our manners.” She looked to the formidable woman glaring at Inferno. “Savage, we aren’t going to get any information by bullying our way in. I’m sure Dar will be back soon, then we can be on our way.” Savage glanced at Pyro, who nodded. Swee smiled at Inferno. “We’ll behave as best we can, milord.”

  Midir entered the wasteland realm…flat, dry, and grey. Had there ever been plant life on this plane, it had long since withered and died. His destination loomed in the distance, blurred by the windblown sand biting into his skin. Gathering his cloak close, he battled against the wind to approach a set of massive gates.

  The walls of the castle became more distinct as he neared, their color such a deep red that it appeared black. Its gates loomed like dark sentinels, impervious to the wild stirrings of the land. He gained access through a smaller door set within the gate. Without a word, a guard dressed in black led him inside. Midir could not tell if the body was demon, Bok, or something other. Left alone in the main hall, he removed his cloak, his attention turning to the assortment of weapons displayed around the room.

  “Do we have a problem?” asked a tall, red-skinned demon impeccably dressed in suit and tie.

  “What a ridiculous question.”

  “We agreed there would be no contact until she turned.” Flames, serving as hair, burned white-hot, revealing his disapproval.

  “About that…” Midir continued admiring the collection. “I want you to hold off a while longer.” He turned at the “hmph” from the demon. “Perhaps
you’ve forgotten how it is with her. She cannot be coerced.”

  “Have you become distracted, Midir?” There was a smirk on the blood-red lips.

  “Merely determined. She is the crux of our success. Once she is ours, we can proceed with the stones.”

  “How are we to know when she is ours?”

  Midir grinned. “A test.”

  A raised brow showed his interest. “Something I would enjoy?”

  “You will stay put.” Midir, no longer amused by the conversation, pointed a finger in the demon’s face. “She’s on the edge. Knowledge of you could push her in the wrong direction. We’re almost there. Do not fuck it up.”

  “We’re in far more danger of you fucking it up…Father. Even if we meet, she wouldn’t know me. Remember why we do this, and keep your eyes off her pretty little ass.”

  Etain woke to an overcast morning and a brisk breeze blowing through the balcony doors. Shivering, she padded across the room, closed the doors, and went to stoke up a fire. Once warm enough to function, she opened the armoire, staring at new wardrobe. The black from the day before were history, so she chose the darkest ones she could find – a blue as deep as Dar’s eyes. Her fingers caressed the soft leather, her thoughts drifting to another place. With a shake of her head, she shook off the urge to cry.

  “I will find a way to get back to you.”

  After dressing, she stopped by the kitchen for a quick bite. Lilith handed her a tankard of the same drink as the day before. Having felt no further effects after her first encounter with the mixture, she downed it, then headed toward the door. Determined to beat whatever challenges Midir had in store for her today, she thought, Pay attention, Etain. When the opportunity shows itself, you be ready to take it.

  Memories of yesterday’s attack put her on guard. The door had been open then. Today it was closed. The handle turned easily enough, but the door proved heavier than she’d thought. Planting her feet, she tugged for all she was worth, grunting with the effort. Opening it halfway, she waited for the sounds of attack. No bodies lurched into the entry, no war cries, nothing. She peeked into the courtyard. Finding it empty, she placed both hands on the face of the massive door and pushed with all her might. The creaking wood slammed against the wall, sending a loud boom throughout the castle, sufficient warning for anyone who may be lying in wait.

  Although she couldn’t see him, her senses told her Midir was near. Constantly vigilant, she inched along the wall toward a rolling rack of swords. Choosing her weapon, she worked through a few exercises, loosening her muscles. A few practice jabs ended with her in the center of the yard.

  A tingle ran up her spine.

  “Etain.”

  She turned and stepped back, aiming the sword at his heart. “This is your last game at my expense. Today will see you dead.”

  “I've come to take you home.”

  “Ah, a new tactic.” Her laugh was cold. “Another promise to tear out my heart and break me down. I won’t fall like yesterday.”

  “Fall? Are you hurt? Let me check,” he said, holding out his hand.

  “Like you care.” She took another step back, whirled around, and replaced the blade at his chest. “I'm ready for anything you dish out.”

  “I would hope so. It’s because I care that we trained so hard.”

  Crimson wings arced over her head, the glow in her eyes intense. “Which one are you today? The Dar who ran me through, then shared his tainted blood to bind me to him forever?” The tip of the sword slashed up, leaving a gash across his cheek. He staggered back just as she made a play for his midsection. “Or the Dar who took my sister to bed?” Rolling her shoulders, she pulled her sword close. “Or perhaps you’ll have the balls to show your own face. It would make watching you die all the sweeter.”

  She circled around him, forcing him to defend himself. He put Burning Heart to work, deflecting her jabs.

  “As if that weren’t enough, you incestuous bastard, you give her a child.” She stopped in front of him. “But the demon demanded more, didn’t he? The sacrifice of innocence…my innocence, my heart, my soul. What are your plans for me now, Dar? Am I to stand aside and watch you raise your child with her, or am I a liability to be eliminated like so many others in your past?”

  “I don't understand, mo chuisle.”

  “Do not call me that! Only Dar can say those words to me. Not you.” Violet orbs transformed into a deadly stare of light. “Never you, Midir, murdering bastard.” Her sword came crashing down.

  Dar dove to the side and rolled, coming into a crouch, Burning Heart and Day Star crossed over his head. “Etain,” he yelled. “I am Dar!”

  “You are a liar. I would know if you were him. I feel no love from you.”

  Shifting his weight, Dar came up and kicked her in the stomach, knocking her back a few steps. He threw his blades to the ground. “I will not fight you.”

  “You will fight me. I will have my revenge for my father, my mother, and for Dar’s family, too, while I’m at it.”

  “Killing me will not give you the satisfaction you seek. But if you truly do not feel my love, my life isn't worth living.” Her eyes were their true demon violet, but encased within a green glow. “I will not live without you.”

  “Then don’t.”

  As she drew her sword back, he held up a hand. “Will you honor me with one last request?”

  “What?”

  He removed Nim'Na'Sharr from the scabbard on his hip and offered her the hilt. “If my life is to end this day, I would rather be destroyed by the two creations I hold most dear. Forged from my family's history - you, from my blood, and Nim’Na’Sharr, from my love for you.” She shifted the demon sword to her left hand, using the tip to push him back a step. With her right hand, she reached for the crystal blade. “And…” He drew her gaze back to him, “I ask you wear this medallion. It and the sword belong together…with you.” She bowed her head and allowed him to place the medallion around her neck. “Your cry told me where to find you,” he whispered and stepped back.

  “What did you say?” The medallion turned crimson, the blade of Nim'Na'Sharr following suit.

  “I was at Laugharne, waiting for Spirit to find you. When you screamed my name, I knew where to go.”

  “Liar. Spirit is dead.” She tossed the demon blade aside, taking hold of Nim with both hands. “I saw what you did. Another life taken without mercy. Did you think I’d forgotten?”

  Dar noticed the green in her eyes fading as the medallion burned brighter, drawing the evil into itself. “Etain, you have forgotten.” She raised a brow. “You have forgotten Nim cannot be handled by evil. Were I Midir…”

  Crimson faded into pink, then pure white. Simultaneously, white light flashed over her body, turning her eyes a penetrating ice blue, changing her hair and wings white. Nim’Na’Sharr changed with her. Its runes glowed, a brilliant white light bursting from the crystal blade. Etain’s head snapped back, her arms extended out. The purifying light cleansed her body, mind, and spirit of Midir’s influence. Once the light dissipated, she collapsed to her knees, head lowered.

  Dar held his ground, waiting.

  After several minutes, she lifted her head, locking her gaze with his. “Nice trick, Midir.”

  He was taken aback. How could his plan not have worked? The light was damn near spiritual. It should have burned everything…

  She came to her feet. Without moving her head, her eyes slid to the left, to the right, then back to him. Dar blinked, hoping he saw what he thought were signals intended for him. With both hands on the hilt of Nim, she raised the blade.

  “Duck!”

  Dar dropped down, grabbing Burning Heart and Day Star as Etain slashed over his head. Her move was so close, the air stirred his hair. Spinning out of his crouch, a fine mist of blood sprayed over his body as he slashed up at one demon, blocking another’s attack. Clawed hands were hacked off and demon hearts pierced. Etain was busy with her own troop of demons, her blade turning each one
to dust.

  Clipped by a lucky punch, a distracted Dar fell to one knee. Etain raced to his side, slicing the demon into oblivion, its dusty remains whirling in the wind. Smiling, she offered her hand. “You had me worried for a minute.”

  “I had you worried?” He smiled, happy to see she was his Etain once again.

  The warriors stood back-to-back, taking on the next onslaught of demons. Eventually, they parted, but kept each other in sight. Another band of demons came out of nowhere, concentrating on Dar, splitting the duo farther apart. He lost sight of Etain in the bedlam.

  A booming voice suddenly brought everything to a halt. “Dar! I have something to show you, brother.” The sea of demons parted, giving Dar full view of Midir holding Etain by the hair. Glaring across the courtyard, he forced her to kneel, his dirk at her throat. “I always regretted that you missed my performance with Alexia and the children.” Blood trickled down her neck. “But seeing your face as I drain the life from this one will more than make up for my disappointment.”

  Dar dropped his swords. “I'm the one you want. Fight me, man-to-man. Leave her out of this.”

  “What I want is to see you suffer. The pain in your eyes will make my victory all the sweeter.”

  “Midir…” His voice rang with warning.

  Midir yanked her head back. “Watch this, Dar.” He repositioned the dagger, his intent clear.

  Etain's hand shot up, driving a dagger through his forearm. Surprised by the attack, he dropped the blade. She rolled to the side and called to Nim. The faithful sword immediately appeared in her hand. As she moved, Dar grabbed both his blades, running through the opening of demons. He jumped into a somersault, sailing over the few blocking his way, and landed in front of Midir.

  A dangerous smile lifted the corners of his mouth. “Make me suffer now, brother.”

  18