by Sydney Addae
Cain howled.
Silas and the rest of the Pack joined in. It was a delightful sound.
In the distance, a copter flew closer to the camp. Silas stared at it and smiled. “Adam and Bella.”
“Warn them to protect their minds, Silas and cover the pilot. Have him leave as soon as the kids get out.”
When the copter landed, Adam took Bella’s hand and each of them held a backpack, ran away from the plane. It lifted and moved away before Adam reached the camp.
“This is a hard place to reach. We spent a few hours trying to find someone to bring us here,” Adam said as he hugged Jasmine, and placed a kiss on her cheek.
“We’ve rented most of the copters to bring us here and take us around the mountains,” Silas explained while Jasmine greeted Bella and he hugged Adam.
The others moved toward the new-comers slowly, greeting Adam and Bella. Once they’d all spoken to him, Adam looked around. “I’m sensing David nearby.” He frowned and then his eyes widened. “Sarita’s here?” he looked at Renee and then Jackie, saw their wide grins. “They’re mated! Finally, thank the Goddess,” he said with feeling.
“She came to rescue him,” Jackie said.
Adam looked at Bella. “You haven’t met Sarita, she’s the one I told you we grew up with. She and David were best friends since pups.”
“They’ve been mates since pups?” Bella asked sounding puzzled.
“Probably,” Jackie said. “David told Sarita she belonged to him after the kidnapping.”
“Kidnapping?” Bella said frowning. “Who was kidnapped? David?”
“No, Sarita,” Adam said and then told her about the kidnapping. “David lost it.”
“David is the calmest person I’ve ever met,” Bella sounded doubtful.
“He is unless you mess with someone he loves, and he’s always loved Rita,” Renee said. “Just wait. When you see them later, you’ll understand what I mean.”
Bella smiled but it was obvious she didn’t understand.
While they stood in a loose circle talking, Silas and Jasmine turned simultaneously and stared at the beach. Two females appeared several feet in front of them near the water.
“The Goddess,” Silas said taking Jasmine’s hand and moving forward in obedience to the Goddess’ call.
“Who’s that with her?”
“My guess, Salah the Blessed,” he said.
BEFORE SILAS REACHED the glowing entities, he fell to his knees and bowed his head. Jasmine joined him. He sensed his den and the Knights followed his example.
“Rise, Silas and Jasmine, Black Wolf and Alpha of my people.”
Surprised by the different salutation from the Goddess, Silas stood and assisted Jasmine to her feet. By the time they both stood, the Goddess was in front of them.
“Meet Salah the Blessed, she has sought my counsel regarding the matter of one of hers. She is not the only one who is concerned about your den on this mountain. The natives have sent prayers to Tungak requesting for you to leave their holy mountain.”
Silas wasn’t surprised.
“The situation is sensitive enough that you must leave at first light and travel to another, remote location Salah and the Inuit have agreed upon.”
Silas nodded.
“Regarding the dilemma with Nadira, she cannot be released from this area. Her evil intent will cause problems with both humans and dual-natureds. However, there is a problem. More than one. She is a blood descendant of Salah’s, but her desire for war and bloodshed, her methods ... ultimately she was judged unacceptable for service. Salah believes that rejection sent her down a darker path filled with anger and hatred. Before her younger den-mates tested for service with Salah, out of envy Nadira sold them to the Liege for experiments, fully aware of their fate. In her jealousy, she did everything to keep them in bondage and eventually caused the death of Hanna.” The Goddess looked at Salah who stood slightly apart from them staring at the water with her back turned.
“When you move to the remote location on the mountainside, Nadira must be destroyed. She cannot return to the States with you,” the Goddess said.
“Nadira is under the misconception that she can destroy the one she’s tethered too. If he dies, so does she because of the curse she thought to break,” Salah said staring into the distance. “The Goddess does not approve of this, but it is only fair that you’re aware of this option.”
Silas and Jasmine agreed with the Goddess, Cain’s death was off the table. They wouldn’t even tell him about it.
“My direct descendants are both blessed and cursed. The seed of the blood Nadira shed is the only one permitted to destroy her. She has always known this and has prepared for the battle for decades. Since she cares for no one other than herself, she escapes the curse of losing someone close.”
“Isodora said Kim and Sarita are not ready to fight Nadira,” Silas said.
“Unfortunately, that is true. However, their mam deserves justice,” Salah said.
“Sarita is mated and is no longer alone,” the Goddess said. “No one separates mates. When she meets Nadira, she’ll have her mate with her and all of his resources.”
Hope sprung to Silas’ chest. David knew how to pull energy from Silas and his siblings.
“True,” Salah said. “But Sarita must be careful and only use her mate’s abilities when necessary, otherwise, Nadira can claim foul and be allowed to pull on additional energies to assist her in battle.”
“Nadira has been mated?” Jasmine asked.
“No,” Salah said.
“How is there any comparison between those situations?” Jasmine asked, confused. “Sharing energies and gifts is a part of being mates, one flesh. If Nadira has never allowed herself to care for anyone to that extent, why is she allowed to reap the benefits of a relationship she despised?”
No one spoke for several seconds.
“What you say is true and worthy of merit. It will be as you say. Nadira cannot have it both ways,” the Goddess said.
“It is good to speak with you, to see things from a different perspective. Thank you. Do you have questions regarding Sarita?” Salah asked.
“What do you expect of her?” Silas asked.
“She will assist in saving pups, a mission you have already implemented within your pack. For that I am grateful. We will integrate her mission within the framework you’ve set in place. Her skill set will be instrumental in locating pups and those who would either destroy our people or attempt to usurp our abilities. Isodora will reach out to her later.”
That sounded good to Silas. “Thank you.”
“Be well, La Patron and La Patroness. Thank you for your assistance in this matter,” Salah said disappearing.
The Goddess smiled at them once Salah left. “Your previous good works and heart have made you an invaluable ally. Before seeking me out, Salah heard of all your pack has done to rescue pups and return them to their dens. The investment your pack has made to protect and educate pups is a testimony around the world of your commitment to the overall health of dual-natureds.”
Silas didn’t know what to say and remained silent.
“She has asked, and I’ve granted permission for you to assist in eradicating this threat to the Pack. Rest tonight without fear of Nadira tampering with any of your pack. Jasmine’s energy, filled with righteous indignation on behalf of our people, protects them completely.”
Filled with pride, he squeezed Jasmine’s hand.
“In the morning leave to the location, Isodora is preparing for you. She’s gone ahead to remove humans and full-bloods from Nadira’s snare. Cain will travel by boat, the rest may fly but he must move over the water to keep Nadira from land.”
Silas nodded. “Yes, Mistress.”
“Once there, Isodora will close the area. Layer your seal over hers, that will keep others out and Nadira in. I leave it up to you whether to allow your pack inside or out.”
“We’ll allow mated pairs inside and leave the other
s out if Nadira cannot reach and compromise them,” Silas said.
“Once contained, she will not be able to reach them.” She smiled and looked beyond him at the others. “Your pups are all here. They’ve come together to assist David, which is admirable. You’ve both done well. Several Alphas are in your den in the right season. Do not be afraid to send them and allow them to serve, the Pack needs the Black Wolf to thrive.”
Filled with pride, throat tight, Silas nodded.
“Thank you,” Jasmine said. “We’re very proud of them all.”
“As you should be,” the Goddess said and disappeared.
Silas dropped to his knees and took several deep breaths while wrapping his arms around Jasmine’s waist.
The others walked toward them, Jasmine shook her head stopping them. Silas needed a moment to pull it together. The Goddess’ praise, was the equivalent of a supernatural pat on the back, dropping Silas and robbing him of breath. If Jasmine had been a full-blood she would probably be gasping for air as Silas was doing, instead, the hair remained standing on her neck as a tremor ran through her on a loop.
When Silas could stand, he pulled Jasmine into his arms, holding her tight. “Love you, love you, love you, Sweet Bitch. I never dreamed I’d have all of this and wouldn’t without you.”
Holding him close, she stroked the back of his head and whispered soft words. “Silas I cannot imagine life without you. I’m so proud of you, your strength, loyalty, and honor. You’re my heart, Wolfie.”
He looked down at her. “Did you hear what the Goddess said?” He sounded awestruck.
“Yes. And it’s all true, baby. You’re an awesome Alpha.”
“You changed the schools.”
“No, I only fine-tuned what was already in place. You were big on education before we met,” she said refusing to take credit for his foresight.
“Always knew my pups would be Alphas, but to hear Her say it...”
“That whole send them remark makes me think they’ll be here in Canada or Mexico,” Jasmine said.
“Possibly, we’ll see. The pups are getting worried,” Silas said. “We need to prepare them for tomorrow. I’ll have Jacques order the copters for sunrise, by then Isodora should have sent the location information.”
Jasmine nodded and wrapped her arm around his waist as they walked toward their kids.
CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO
THE NEXT MORNING BEFORE sunrise Cain alerted Silas they had visitors. Dressing quickly, Silas left Jasmine asleep and left the tent. Just outside the camp, three Inuit Elders waited for him.
Cain accompanied him to meet the men. After formally greeting them, Silas waited.
“It is true you released the witch demon from the mountain?”
“Yes, I healed her without knowing it was wrong to heal her,” Silas said.
“But she is free?” the one in the middle pressed.
“Yes, we are working with Priestess Isodora to correct the problem,” Silas said as the Elder shook his head.
“Not here. You must leave, today,” he stated emphatically. “Take her with you. Our sacred mountain will never house her again. The deal our people struck with the Prophetess is over. Too many come here now. Before it was desolate. Arrangements made with Priestess to use another area south of here to correct the mistake. You have one week then must leave our lands completely.” He looked at Silas.
“I understand, and we will do as you asked.” Silas bowed.
The men bowed. “We have a boat to take you to the new place.”
“Thank you for your kindness. Once the sun rises, we will leave,” Silas promised.
The Elders nodded and walked away.
Silas met Cain’s tired gaze. “Did you get any sleep?”
“Some, not much. I know the Goddess layered our protection last night, but I slept lightly just in case.” Cain ran his hand through his hair and watched the Natives enter a small boat. “They’re kicking us out?”
“We were leaving anyway,” Silas said watching Cain. “We’re going on the boat. The others are taking the copters.”
“Is there a specific reason we’ll be on the boat?” Cain asked watching Silas.
“South of here are small towns. I don’t want Nadira over land where she can grab someone and drag them to our new location.”
“Makes sense,” Cain said and stifled a yawn. “She’ll follow me like a kite or something?”
Silas thought about it. “I’m not sure how it works, we were told to go by water so that’s what we’ll do.”
“The Knights?”
“I want them in the air with Jasmine and the others. They’ll arrive first, set up camp, grab supplies, get things settled before we arrive. Once we’re there, we won’t be leaving until everything’s settled,” Silas said.
“Or one of us is dead?” Cain said.
“Until she’s dead,” Silas corrected.
“How will her death affect me?” Cain asked. “Not that I’m afraid of death. After 300 years, I knew it would happen at some time. Just curious if she drags me behind her or not.”
“Is she your mate?” Silas asked seriously.
Cain jerked as if slapped. “What? No. Absolutely not.”
“What you asked is what happens with mates. Not for any other reason that I know of,” Silas said. “Priestess Isodora didn’t mention anything about it.”
“Ask a stupid question,” Cain grumbled as he walked off.
Silas returned to his tent and lay next to Jasmine.
“Everything alright?” she asked as he pulled her close.
“Yeah, they’re kicking us out.”
“What?” she looked at him.
He explained what happened. They discussed the logistics and what needed to be done. “The Priestess is getting the basic supplies for a camp that will be similar to this one. I’m not sure if she’ll stock it or if we’ll need to hunt.”
“Ugh,” Jasmine said rolling over. “We’ll make a stop at a store on the way in.”
He laughed. “You’re taking a copter to the grocery store?”
“In case you haven’t noticed, there are 11 Knights, all six of your children and their mates, as well as Hawke and Asia to be fed and kept warm for the next couple days,” she said.
“Good point. We may still need to hunt, it’s cold enough to keep the meat fresh.”
“We’ll buy a couple generators, and a large grill so we can cook large meals and keep the food safe. Ask Jacques to find a nearby place so all we need to do is pick them up.”
“Yes, ma’am.” He contacted Jacques, ordered meat, generators, blankets, pillows and other supplies. “That’s done. Get some rest, we leave in a couple hours.”
THE SOUND OF APPROACHING helicopters woke Silas. Jasmine was awake with their packed bags making a final inspection of the tent to make sure they hadn’t left anything behind.
Standing, he stretched and pulled her close. “Morning,” he whispered against the top of her hair.
“Morning. Hungry?” She offered him several pastries and sausage from a small paper plate.
He took the plate and ate. “Thanks,” he said when he finished. “Are you going on the first copter?”
“I guess so. Asia says there are six out there. We’ll be leaving after everyone’s ready. Isodora sent the directions of the new camp to Sarita and to the Inuit pilots as well as the boat captain. She means for us to get to the right place.”
“Good.” He bent forward and kissed her quickly. “Sounds like everything is set up and we’re ready to go.” He waited for her at the tent entrance and followed her to where the others waited.
“I asked Rese to make assignments for the copters,” Jasmine said.
“Good idea.” He grabbed her hand and moved closer.
“Mom, you, Hawke, Asia, David, and Sarita are in the first copter,” Tyrese said.
Jasmine nodded and smiled at Asia and Hawke. When she saw David and Sarita join the rest of them, she hugged Sarita. “Welcome to the f
amily. We’re nosy, opinionated but fierce and loyal as hell. Love you.” She kissed Sarita’s cheek.
Silas hugged Sarita next, kissed her cheek and congratulated her on their mating. He slapped David on the back and congratulated him as well.
Adam elbowed everyone else out the way and hugged David.
“I thought I sensed you earlier, when did you and Bella get here?” David asked as he pulled Sarita close.
“Late,” Adam said as he hugged Sarita. “Meet Bella.” Adam pulled his mate close. “This is my sister, Rita and David’s mate,” he told Bella.
Bella hugged Sarita. “I’m so happy to meet you, Adam talked about you a lot.”
“Thank you,” Sarita said. “I’ve heard great things about you. And congratulations on taming this wild one. He has a great heart.” She pushed Adam’s shoulder when he growled at her.
“Thanks, and congratulations on your mating. David’s chill. I’m really happy for him. For both of you,” Bella said.
“Alright, the rest of the congratulations will continue after we land. We’ve been asked nicely to leave, so if everyone will head to their copters, we’ll get out of here in a timely fashion,” Tyrese said. “Don't forget to shield the plane you’re riding in against any mishaps,” he reminded them.
Tyrese, Silas, and Cain watched each copter lift and head in the direction of the new location. “Did the pilot say how long it will take to reach the camp?” Silas asked Tyrese.
“A couple hours, max. Isodora sent word it’s a bit inland in a secluded area. Jacques purchased supplies and had them sent to Isodora’s people.” The next to the last copter lifted with several Knights, Tyrone, and Rose. “I’ll see you when you get there in a few hours,” Tyrese said, looking at Silas and Cain. “Be careful.”
“You too,” Silas said slapping him on the shoulder. Cain fist-bumped Tyrese. Turning, Tyrese jogged to the last copter, entered it and within moments they lifted off.
Silas and Cain headed toward the boat that would take much longer to arrive, but it was safer this way. Cain greeted the captain, an older Inuit male with a bright smile and wise eyes. His assistant was much younger, probably a relative with a shy smile who moved quickly as they prepared to cast off.