by Kym Grosso
“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 shoo
k 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 wi
ll 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?”