On the Evil Scale: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book Two

Running through the thick snow and down the lighted path, I finally arrived at Shung-Lee’s cottage. Knocking on the door, receiving no answer, I ran around the back, attempting to peek through the dirty windows but saw nothing.

“Shung-Lee!” I called out, “Shung-Lee?!” but he was nowhere, “Sh*t.” I cursed then grabbing a pen and paper that he left on the table outside, I wrote a quick note:

“Lee…

Thank you for all you’ve taught me. I’ll remember your teachings and kindness. If you ever need anything, come to the Isle, travel to the port of Heysham and tell them you want passage onto the island. Give them my name and they’ll know you were invited. Hope we meet again.

-Yzavela”

Quickly folding the note, I slid it under the door. Backing away, I glanced down at my watch.

“Damn it.” I moaned, then turned, running back through the woods to make it back to the bus.

Shung-Lee knelt down, picking up the letter. Gazing out the window, watching as the young woman ran down the path, disappearing from his sight, he morphed into his real form; there he stood, Molock, with his mid-back length black hair, red Demon eyes, strange symbols tattooed on the right side of his handsomely carved face, and dressed in clothing of his ancient attire that hugged his tall, herculean 6’4 godly frame.

“Very well, my lovely. You did wonderful back there, you will do just fine.” he stated in an elegant sinister tone, “And thank you for the invitation, one I shall accept.” he grinned, then let out a deep chuckle before turning away, disappearing in a tall, bright burst of red flame, causing the note to slowly float to the ground, burning to ash, while the cottage resumed its natural appearance as a rundown, and dilapidated shed that hadn’t been used in years.

Running back just in time, I watched and listened as the bus crushed the snow beneath its tires and weight. As it began to drive forward, I glanced down at Zanzabarr, ordering him to quickly catch up; I could hear my mom’s voice arguing loudly with the driver.

The large wolf that had grown during these two years, let out a deep bark then ran forward, chasing after the bus with her not too far behind.

“I said stop the god damn bus!” Lady D argued, grabbing the man’s shoulder, digging her nails deeply through the fabric of his coat.

“All right woman, Jes*s Chr*st…” he groaned, slowly taking his foot off the gas pedal then turned, watching as the woman opened the doors, peeking outside.

“Yza…” Lady D called out, “come on, hurry!”

As the bus slowed down, I jumped onto the steps then felt the doors close behind me, and as I laid on the aisle between rows of seats, I felt the bus move forward then watched as the man slammed his foot back on the gas. Breathing heavily, I pushed myself backwards then crawled onto the nearest seat, sitting next to my mom who held onto my arm before handing me a bottle of water that I gulped down. Glancing out the window, I knew coming to Ireland, though beautiful and scenic, is, or was, just another experience that both my mom and I would never forget, but looking at her, her expression said it all.

“You all right?” Lady D rasped.

“Do I look all right?!” I snapped, panting heavily, “You?!”

“Abso-f*cking-lutely not!”

“Right, then don’t ask.” I groaned.

Arriving at the harbor, having to wait in the visitor’s center overnight, bundled in heavy coats and blankets, because of ice build up on the Irish sea, it was cold and miserable because of the heating system that had blown out from a mild blizzard.

Huddling in the corner with my mom, wolf and dragon for warmth, I contacted Thomas, informing him of our return; it wouldn’t be for a few days because the barge needed time to break through the ice, clearing a path not just for the island’s ferry, but for others as well that required trade and business.

“They said it should take two days, maybe three.” I frowned.

“All right, I’ll inform everyone tonight.” Thomas nodded.

“Thank you, Thomas.” I sighed, “How’s everything there?”

“As expected, busy and hectic because of the vendors and yes, the Boar-wolves that seem to have been more active.”

“And Anthony?” I worried.

“He’s in the compound.” Thomas glanced around the room of his house, then over his shoulder, hearing Louisa’s voice from the hallway.

“Oh god, I’m sorry.” I apologized, “I know it’s late.”

“Don’t apologize.” Thomas looked back at her, seeing her face on the screen, “Louisa understands, but I should go. I will let everyone know first thing in the morning, then inform all of the Guardians and contact Heysham Port as well.”

“I’ve already contacted Heysham Port and the Guardians.”

“All right.” Thomas nodded.

“Goodnight, Thomas.” I grinned before ending the call.

“Goodnight.” he nodded. Once the call ended, returned to the bedroom, seeing Louisa sitting on the ledge, “I’m sorry, darling.” he climbed in alongside her.

“Is everything all right?” the woman wondered, holding him.

“It will be, Yzavela’s returning in two, maybe three days.” he glanced down at her, “But…there will be a delay because the sea has frozen over.” he sighed, looking around the room.

“Oh, just.” Louisa teased.

Two days passed; the sun rose above the countryside and the harbor, warming the sea and melting the snow and ice. All of the residents from the Isle were relieved to see the island’s ferry arriving through a path of ice that had been cleared by the barge. Boarding, the ferry traveled back across the rough, half frozen sea.

Leaning on the railing, watching as chunks of ice rolled by, I listened to my music stroking Abraxas’ soft scales as he perched on the railing next to me who raised his head, watching as if someone approached from behind. As I turned, there stood Katrina, the most unlikely person I expected, and as I removed my ear-buds, she remained silent.

“Hello, Katrina.” I greeted softly.

“I wanted to thank you.” the Wiccan returned the smile, then took a seat on the bench close to the railing.

“For what?” I wondered, sitting next to her.

“For helping everyone get to safety, and away from all of…” she sighed regrettably, “those horrible people.”

“Well, I wouldn’t have had to, if only all of you knew what it is what that they practiced.” I protested, “Surely you knew?!”

“Of course I knew nothing!” her Irish voice barked with anger, “For you to insinuate such a thing is an insult.” she sounded offended.

“I’m sorry Katrina, I didn’t mean to offend you, but it’s just…” I adjusted my Winter beanie, “you’re pretty f*cking stupid to not have seen there was something off about those people in the first place. My mom and I sensed it the moment that we stepped foot off that bus, but there was nothing that we could do, and if you or anyone else from the Isle are into that sort of magic and practices…” I stood, leering down at her, “you will not be allowed to remain on the island.”

“What are you saying?” she argued bluntly.

“Exactly how it sounds.” I answered in the same blunt tone, “I know Marxus didn’t allow such practices and I’m not about to let it happen under my ownership.” and looking around, in that moment, there was more to say on the subject, “I’m sure Margaret and Belle are anxious for your return, so why don’t you focus on your daughters instead, hmm?” I suggested.

Fiddling with her bags, looking at the young woman in front of her, she nodded, saying nothing, for what could be said? As she slowly stood, hearing the small dragon’s low hisses on the railing, she cleared her throat, then scampered inside, but passing Lady D, she flashed the mother an angry frown.

“Dare I ask what that was about?” Lady D approached.

“Just a moment of truth.” I turned to her, shivering from the strong gust that blew blizzard winds across the sea, “I can’t wait to get back to be in front of a warm fire and the comfort of our beds.”

“And in Anthony’s arms.” Lady D teased, nudging her gently.

“Yes. That too.” I smiled, missing him terribly, then blew hot air into my gloved hands, “I can’t wait to see the changes that have taken place.” I looked at my mom.

“Don’t be too anxious, you might not like them.” she muttered.

“I don’t care if she named you the bloody King of England!” Leonus argued as he, Nick and Erik stood in the study, “Hell spawns, bloodsuckers and lover boys don’t run this place! Not while I’m around!”

“Neither does your kind!” Erik argued, “Now how the bloody hell did you get in here, I thought I…” he glanced at the door.

“Dead bolted the door?” the Scotsman mocked, “Well, maybe you should have made sure I didn’t have the bloody keys.” he dangled the ring in front of the young Demon, “But no more.” his blue eyes glanced toward the door that were absent their locks, for he had them removed.

“You had no right!” Nick raged, “No right, Leonus!”

“I had every right!” Leonus exclaimed, “And there’s nothing you, or you, can do about it, it’s done!” he growled, flashing his red eyes.

“Yzavela, the rightful Keeper, won’t be pleased the moment she finds out what you’ve been doing in her stead!” Nick took a step forward.

“And you’re going to be the one to tell her, or you?” Leonus gestured at Nick, who placed his hands on the hilt of his axe that hung off his belt, “Of course you are, because you’re her pretty boy, a** kissers.” he continued, “You and her lover, the Italian.” he mocked smugly, “Now these keys are mine, I had them made for me way back when Marxus let me in for repairs.” he glared at the young man, “Is there anything else that you want to know?!”

Nick clenched his fists, wanting to express his Wraith rage upon the 6’6 Scotsman, but Erik standing in front of him, had spoken up for the both of them, in a low threatening tone.

“We are going to let that slide for now red ape, but when Yza comes back, only then will we see how she feels about all of the bullsh*t that you’ve boasted on about, and I can promise, she won’t like it.” Erik groaned through his teeth, then pushing past Leonus’ bulk, sitting in the chair behind the desk, he had made sure he kept his demeanor calm, but it was difficult. As he gripped the ledges of the desk until they splintered, his gray eyes leered at the Scotsman, “Before you leave, take this with you!” he tossed the man an empty Scotch bottle, “You’ve made this place smell worse than a pig’s pen.”

“Couldn’t have said it better.” Nick took a whiff of the air.

Catching the bottle, Leonus flashed an expression of hate. As he turned, slamming the door behind him, rattling the hinges, Erik and Nick listened as the man’s feet stomped down the stairs before fading quickly.

Releasing a low hiss, Nick shook his head.

Erik grunted, leaning back against the chair.

“How do you think Yza will handle everything that bastard has done?” Nick wondered curiously, stepping toward the desk.

“I don’t know.” Erik muttered, leaning forward, “And even though she’s coming back today, maybe tomorrow, it can’t be soon enough.” he looked at the Wraith.

“Well, I’ll go make sure he doesn’t do, or say, anything stupid, but this is Leonus…what can we expect from him, yeah?” he shrugged then turned to the door.

“Thanks, Nick.” Erik appreciated then watched as the Wraith quickly vanished before even touching the door knob. Taking a deep breath, sitting forward, he recalculated the numbers of prices and shipments that were due to come in which had, yet again, been miscalculated and half ordered, “What the hell?!” he frowned, “Leonus, you dumba** what is this?!” he shook his head then suddenly, he heard a loud tapping on the glass of the patio doors behind him. Turning the chair around, he observed a black Raven, pecking on the glass and as he inched closer, opening the door, allowing the bird to hop inside, it flapped its large wings, landing on the desk, scattering the paperwork onto the floor, “Um, hello…” Erik spoke to it gently, listening as the Raven squawked loudly, changing its form, surprising him as Abraxas stood in the birds place, “Ab-Abraxas?” he inquired and before saying anything more, the dragon flew back through the doors, roaring loudly.

Guardians patrolling the wall, listened as the dragon roared; their watchful eyes watched as the Zyphyn flew toward the harbor.

“Was that what I think it was?!” Justin wondered curiously.

“Yeah, I think it was.” Caleb muttered then glanced toward the harbor, watching as a ferry could be seen in the distance; it looked like a small black piss ant.

Erik grinned then stood, rushing around the desk and just as he made it to the door, swinging it open, he scampered down the stairs, leaving the study open, not caring at this point in having it locked. Running through the foyer, making his way outside by the front doors, he looked around thinking maybe Yzavela was nearby but her presence was nowhere to be seen.

“Wh-what the…” he sighed in disappointment, knowing that the dragon would never venture too far from her. Retreating inside, closing the front doors, keeping the Winter winds that swept across the estate from crawling across the floor, Erik turned, making his way toward the dining hall, “Thanks for the message love.” he grinned, then spotted Jonathan, Sarah and yes, Anthony sitting at the table, “Hey, guess what?” he watched as they looked at him, “Yza’s coming back.”

“Anthony just informed us of it.” Jonathan answered.

“Did he now?” Erik mocked, leering at the Italian.

“Finally.” Sarah excitedly jumped from her seat.

“I’m sure she didn’t tell you about Abraxas.” Erik grunted, looking away from Anthony as he reached for a pitcher of orange juice, pouring himself a glass.

“She did.” Anthony growled, “Excuse me.” he nodded toward Sarah and Jonathan with a friendly grin then passing Erik, he roughly bumped against his shoulder, offering a deep growl. As he made his way toward the foyer, he stepped aside when Leonus barged past him rushing toward Erik and his friends.

“You!” the Scotsman pointed a finger at the young man, “You and your friends think they can come here and run things?!” he shouted, interrupting others that were gathered for late brunch.

“Leonus…” Anthony approached, “not here, go home.”

“F*ck off, man-whore!” the Scotsman turned to the Italian, “You have no part in this!” he spat at the man’s feet then with a rough grasp, he pushed Anthony backwards, knocking him against the ledge of the table.

Filling with rage, flashing his yellow eyes, he managed to brace his stance against the ledge of the table, then growled. As he lunged forward, he grabbed Leonus’ shoulder, turning him around, swinging a tight, strong fist against the man’s jaw, knocking him backwards in stumbling steps. Shaking out his hand, he grunted, wanting to do that for the longest time.

Erik stood alongside the Italian, watching as the Scotsman gained his footing, leering at them with his red Lycynian alpha eyes, clenching his fists tightly. Taking steps back, it was Erik, Jonathan and Anthony that took a stand against him, while Sarah ran around the table, standing near others that jumped from their seats, scampering out of the hall with fear of an altercation between Demons and Lycynians.

“You dare go against your alpha?!” Leonus leered at Anthony once more.

“I’ve told you before, you’re not my alpha!” Anthony sneered.

Leonus growled, taking steps forward reaching out his hands that extracted his paranormal claws that eagerly wanted to shred them apart.

Erik and Jonathan, standing in front of Anthony, muttered an arcane spell under their breath, swirling their hands, creating gathered energy, and as enough built up in their glowing, and pulsating hands, they released the magic that pushed Leonus backwards with a forceful blast of a dark blue hue that for just a few moments, lingered in the air between them and the tall, bulky Scotsman.

With their red Demon eyes sneering at the man, and their hands continuing to glow in their arcane hue, the witches and warlocks standing by watching, were amazed for the magical use that the Demons expressed, were far more complex, more intricate than their magic that’s practiced.

“If you have a problem, you take it up with us!” Jonathan said in a deep, aggressive tone.

“Stop it!” Sarah pleaded loudly but her voice went unheard as the Demons and Lycynians ignored her completely, “Damn it!” she cursed then turned, pushing her way through men and women standing by, continuing to watch, “Help!” she waved her arms once making it outside, “Guardians please, someone help!” she screamed urgently and as she looked around, there were several that appeared; Wyatt, Nick and Caleb included.

“Sarah, what’s going on?” Wyatt worried curiously, then his blue eyes glanced past her shoulder toward the front doors, hearing voices gasping loudly.

“It’s…” Sarah rasped, telling the Guardians about the tense situation taking place, “you have to do something before they kill each other!” she cried, “Please…Jonathan’s in there too!” she reached for Wyatt’s arms, “And Anthony!” she finished.

Rushing past her, the three Guardian ran through the foyer. Pushing through the crowd, the three men stood watching as Leonus confronted Erik, Jonathan and Anthony, beginning his shift.

“Leonus!” Wyatt’s voice boomed as he rushed forward, “You don’t want to do this!” he gathered around his friends and the Italian, with Nick and Caleb behind them; other Guardians in that moment, then appeared in the dining hall.

Looking around, squinting his red eyes, Leonus realized that he was outnumbered but it didn’t matter, he was ready to stand his ground, however, hearing the commotion, he glanced toward the entrance of the dining hall where three Lycynians pushed their way through.

“Are YOU sure want to do this?!” he growled in a threatening tone.

“Leonus!” Wyatt affirmed, “Don’t!”

Guardians patrolled RP&V when the bell rang three times, alerting the villagers and residents, as well as the workers on the harbor; a ferry was approaching through the foggy barrier, veering around the island. Appearing on the dock, a handful of Wraiths, Demons and a scattered number of Lycynians stood, watching as the massive barge pulled close to the harbor, lowering anchor before the passengers had begun to emerge. Gathering around, watching as a ramp had lowered onto the dock, the Guardians greeted many of the Isle’s residents that returned. Shaking hands and sharing friendly smiles, the Guardians’ eyes watched and waited, hoping to see Yzavela but she was yet to be seen.

“Where’s Yzavela?” one of the Guardians asked one of the warlocks that pushed past him.

“She’s coming.” Katrina announced bluntly, as she was last to step off the ramp. Glancing back at the ferry’s deck, she watched as two figures approached the railing. Saying nothing she continued her way down the dock, leading her up the slope that would take her into the village where her two daughters, cried and cheered, greeting her with open arms.

The Guardians stood watching, and waiting, when suddenly, a petite silhouette blocked out the early morning sun, standing alongside a large wolf that had grown, and a dragon perched on her shoulder.

“Yzavela!” the men shouted her name, waving their arms.

“Wow, who knew we’d get such a turn out?” I teased, observing the Guardians ahead of me.

“Well, for you maybe.” Lady D joked.

“Whatever.” I smiled. Helping my mom down the sloped ramp, I then turned looking around hoping to see my friends and Anthony waiting for me, but became disappointed that none of them stood in greeting, but I was thankful for the Guardians at least.

“Yzavela, hello…” one of the Guardians greeted with a smile.

“Hi.” I returned the smile, then continued looking around.

“Lady D.” the Guardian bowed his head toward the woman.

“Hello.” she grinned.

“Not that I’m complaining but…” I rasped, “where are my friends?”

“Yeah, about that.” another Guardian muttered, scratching his chin.

“About what?” I groaned, gripping Zanzabarr’s leash tightly with one hand, and the strap of my duffle bag with the other.

The Guardian sighed, then after glancing around at his fellow soldiers, he revealed the events taking place at Ravenstone Manor.

Dropping my bag and Zanzabarr’s leash, I gasped softly, knowing something terrible was about to take place and I wasn’t there to stop it. Turning to my mom, who stood nearby in shock yet not surprised, I handed her Zanzabarr’s leash, telling her that I would be back for her and the wolf.

“It’s all right, you go.” Lady D urged, “I’ll take care of him, go.”

“Love you.” I mumbled, rushing up the dock with the Guardians.

Lady D let out a heavy sigh, watching as her daughter disappeared in one of the Guardians’ swirling blue flame. Glancing down at the large wolf in her care, she struggled to contain his anxiety as he pulled and whined

“It’s all right, Zanzabarr…she’ll be back, it’s all right.” and as she attempted to scratch the fur around his neck, he jumped back as he turned, snapping at her hands. Dropping the leash, knowing the wolf didn’t like her daughter’s absence, she took steps back watching as he ran up the dock, dragging the leash behind him, “Zanzabarr!” she called out worriedly, “Zanz!” but the wolf didn’t adhere to her, “Sh*t.” she cursed, then carrying Freya, with the help of one of the other Guardians that helped her to the village, she listened from his own lips, the reports of the events taking place, “You can’t be serious? I mean…” she looked at the young man by her side, “Lycynians have shifted?!” she feared, wondering how her daughter would handle the transition.

“Yes, Ma’am.” he nodded.

“Oh my god…” she fretted, “that little girl of mine is going to get herself seriously injured or worse, killed by those things.”

Appearing outside Ravenstone Manor, with Abraxas still perched on my shoulder, I pushed open their front doors, paying no attention to their heavy weight, with snow clustered on my boots, I slipped as I ran through the foyer toward the dining hall, but quickly gained my footing. Residents turned their heads, feeling me push through and hearing Abraxas’ low roars, they eagerly stepped aside. Coming to the front, the events occurring now shocked my eyes; tables had been overturned with plates and platters of food scattered everywhere, and drinks were splashed in puddles but I don’t think that was the most unsettling part.

Blasts of magic were thrown through the air, either making contact against their enemy, or missing their target, scorching the wall or floors. The Wraiths hissed, and Demons contained four fully shifted Lycynians that thumped and pounded against the inner walls of the barriers but the magic didn’t last long as the paranormal beasts broke through from their persistent attempts of breaking free. Lying on the ground near one of the large windows letting in rays of colored light, was a naked man with a deep bite along his shoulder and as my eyes widened with realization, one of the Wraiths must have bitten him; the venom had raced through his blood like a poison, killing the man in seconds, as if acid flowed through his veins.

“Oh my god…” I fretted, then backed away with the residents, “out, get out-OUT!” I turned to them all, rushing them out of the hall and foyer. Watching as the men and women ran from the scene, I made a brief moment of eye contact with the Guardians that accompanied me through the manor.

“What do we do now?! They’re going to kill each other!” one of the Guardians wondered, removing his dart gun, while others removed their weapons of choice.

“We need to get the Lycynians away from the Wraiths and Demons.”

“And how are we, or you, going to do that?!” another Guardian, in a blunt tone, mocked her suggestion.

Watching as the Wraiths and Demons dodged the swipes of claws and slathering jaws from the Lycynians, suffering some scratches in the process, it was then I took a brave, but stupid step forward, with Abraxas releasing an ear piercing roar as he stretched out his wings, attracting the attention from those engaging in the heated battle. As I gripped the hilt of my sword that I held in hand down by my side, I watched as the paranormal beasts stood, lowering their hands as they eerily turned, sneering with their red, or yellow eyes, slathering their jaws.

“Yza?!” Erik rasped, panting as he knelt forward momentarily.

“Yza!” Jonathan shouted eagerly, pulling Erik back.

“It doesn’t matter, get out of here, both of you!” Wyatt groaned, as he glanced over his shoulder toward the two young men, “We’ve got this!” he pushed them back.

“Wh-what about Yza?!” Erik worried.

“She’ll be fine, god damn it, go!” Wyatt frowned.

As Jonathan and Erik rushed across the hall toward Yzavela, they did not have the chance to share a moment of reunion, as one of the tall Lycynians approached, releasing deep, low growls in swift steps, and before the three figures, and those of the Guardians in the foyer reacted, the paranormal beast threw Jonathan across the room, and Erik aside; he was tossed through one of the nearby windows.

“Erik!” I called out worriedly, hearing the glass shattering, then as I glanced at the Lycynian looking above me, I moaned, “Don’t…move. Abraxas, don’t move!” I side eyed the Guardians behind me, and the dragon perched on my shoulder. Widening my eyes, watching as the beast leaned in close with its massive snout, I held my breath as it sniffed heavily, taking in my scent, nudging its nose against my cheek and through my hair. I continued holding my breath, letting out soft whimpers of fear.

“What’s it doing?!” Jonathan complained telepathically, lying nearby, grunting from the impact against the wall.

“You don’t think that’s Anthony, do you?” a Guardian wondered.

“Anthony?” the word managed to slip from my lips, hearing the brief telepathic conversation taking place between the Demons, “Anthony?” I muttered the name loud enough for the Lycynian to hear, perking its ears.

Pulling its head away, standing tall above the petite and frightened young woman, the Lycynian leered at the figures around her, before its ears fell back, letting out soft whines before leaning in closer, just staring deeply into her wide, dark eyes that were filled tears.

In the moment, from its actions, I knew this beast was Anthony, for I had seen this act of submission before, when he shifted with all of the others in the compound, the ears falling back and soft whines, it was my Anthony. Slowly, reaching out my right hand, I was only just a moment away from stroking his snout when one of the other beasts let out deep, aggressive growls, and veering around the bulk that was Anthony in front of me, the other Lycynians had thrown most of the Demons across the dining hall, then turned, lunging toward me and my friends, but just as the beasts lept into the air, Anthony pounced one of the others, knocking him to the ground, roughly sliding across the smooth floor, while the others were frozen in air by arcane magic before being thrown, having their bulks gliding across the floor; their claws dug deep, bracing their slide.

“Jonathan…” Wyatt’s voice echoed loudly, “get her out of here, get Yza out of here now!” he waved his arm toward her and Abraxas.

Jonathan didn’t think twice, rushing to his feet toward her. Grabbing her waist, avoiding Abraxas’ shrieking roars, he pulled her close then moments before he disappeared, Erik lept through the window, and quickly limped from a cramp in his leg with glass through his hair. The Australian turned to Erik as well, placing a hand on his friend’s shoulder, and just as he, Erik and Yzavela within his grasp stood as if they had been frozen in time, he teleported them away.

Wyatt groaned, being helped to his feet by other Guardians that had rushed to be by his side. As the men stood, watching the Lycynians thrashed along the ground before lunging toward them, the Demons, didn’t matter their ranks, released powerful blasts of magic that not only encased the paranormals but were then thrown across the hall, and slammed against the wall in unsettling thumps. Once their bulks fell unconscious, they slowly shifted back to their mortal forms, lying naked.

Lowering their hands, leaning forward, the Demons sighed deeply for this was more magic used in one moment, than they had ever used in their lifetimes.

“F*ck me.” one of the Guardians complained.

“No thanks.” Wyatt grinned jokingly, “You’re uh…” he winced as he held a hand to his ribs, “not really my type.”

“Very funny, man.” the Guardian glanced across the hall, “What do we do now, I mean…do we throw them in the cells or what?”

“Take Leonus and the others to the prisons yes, leave them there until Yza says otherwise.” Wyatt instructed.

“And Anthony?” Caleb observed the Italian lying on his side nearby.

“Take him to the hospital.” Wyatt moaned, “He wasn’t part of this.”

“But he shifted too, didn’t he? Id’ say he’s part of this.” another man argued then gulped, seeing the look in Wyatt’s piercing blue eyes, “I was just sayin’ man…” he held his hands in surrender.

“Just get him to the hospital, we’ll handle the rest.” Wyatt affirmed.

“And Yza?!” Nick worried, “What about her?!”

“Once you take Anthony to the hospital, get yourselves looked at.” Wyatt ordered, “After that, you can look for her.” he studied Nick and his injuries, knowing a Lycynian’s scratch or bite would cause the supernaturals severe fevers, but nothing life threatening, unless they had their heads ripped off.

Nodding in agreement, Nick turned, strolling toward the Italian. As he knelt next to him, gently propping him up, he gripped onto the man’s shoulders then in a blink, he disappeared, teleporting himself and Anthony to the hospital, appearing in the lobby near the front desk. Shouting for help, he startled some of the men, women and the children that sat outside of Beth’s clinic; some of the mothers of the fathers covered their children’s eyes, seeing the naked man’s body on the ground. Looking around, Nick watched as both male and female nurses rushed from their stations, rooms and down the halls, asking their pestering questions. Answering them quickly, he followed the men and women as they carried Anthony into one of the ICU rooms, lying him on the bed, covering him with the blanket.

“Make sure you take care of him.” Nick hissed, backing away.

“We will, now get out!” one of the nurses spat, chasing the Wraith out of the room, then closed the door.

Sighing, leaning against the wall, Nick closed his eyes, then turned as he heard Matthews’ voice approach. Greeting the Doctor with a brief handshake, he explained the events that took place.

“You can’t be serious?” Matthews fretted.

“What do you think?” Nick complained.

“Well, are you all right?” Matthews wondered, seeing a deep scratch slashed across the young man’s arm and chest in a broken pattern.

“Yeah, I just…” Nick rasped, feeling lightheaded, before feeling his knees weaken, falling forward into Matthews arms as the Doctor, in perfect timing, knelt alongside with him, “I just…” he slowly closed his brown eyes.

“Nick?!” Matthews worried, shaking the young man awake, “Nick?!” but he didn’t’ respond, “Sh*t…” he cursed, swiftly lifting Nick into his arms as if he weighed nothing, “I need help over here!” he called for his staff of Wraiths, kicking open the door of a nearby room, he quickly laid Nick on the bed, beginning to tend the Wraiths’ injury and fever.

“What happened?!” one of the female nurses questioned.

Matthews didn’t answer as he tore Nick’s uniform jacket and shirt. Examining the wound across his chest and arm that was beginning to become to infected, he quickly cleaned it, then called for the staff to bring bags of ice, didn’t matter from where, but he needed to bring Nick’s natural, cooler body temperature down because was burning up too high.

“Go, or he dies!” Matthews barked loudly, gesturing out the door.

The nurses nodded, scampering out of the room.

“Hang in there kid…” Matthews spoke, then raising his red Wraith eyes toward the door, he watched as one of the male nurses tending to Anthony, needed his presence elsewhere, “can’t you handle it?!” he hissed, continuing to clean, and scrape the wounds.

“LET ME GO!” the Italian’s voice shouted down the hall.

“Does that answer your question, Sir?” the nurse mocked impatiently.

Matthews frowned. Glancing down at Nick, knowing that there was nothing more he could for him, he looked at the nurse by the door; he gave the instructions to finish cleaning the wound. Receiving a nod, he swept out of the room, after removing his gloves. In a swift blur, he sped down the hall, listening as Anthony screamed loudly, as he pulled against silver restraints that kept him bound to the bed.

“Richard!” Anthony pleaded, watching as the Doctor’s presence had entered the room, “What’s going on, Richard let me go!” he looked around, for he was oblivious of what had occurred.

“It’s a long story.” Matthews groaned then looked around, “Can any of you tell me why he’s been shackled, and with silver no less?!” his red eyes leered.

“We figured he would wake in a frenzy, unaware of what happened.” one of the female nurses muttered softly from the corner of the room, “And look at that, we were right.” she leered, letting out a deep hiss.

“I will speak with you later.” Matthews warned, leering at her.

“Richard, please!” Anthony pleaded once more, then winced feeling the silver burning against his skin, “Set me free.” his dark eyes stared at the man.

Reaching into his pocket for the master key to the shackles, the black man unlocked them, rattling them loudly as he tossed them aside.

“How are you feeling?” Matthews inquired.

“I woke up naked, and shackled to a god damn hospital bed, how do you think I’m feeling?!” Anthony growled, showing his Latin temper, rubbing his wrists once they were freed, leaving red marks on his skin, “What happened?!” he frowned, then went on cursing a long string of Italian unpleasantries, hoping that none of the nurses, both male or female, had taken pleasure in a feel or two of his naked body while he was unconscious, “Nessuno degli infermieri, né uomini né donne, è meglio che non mi abbia toccato mentre ero privo di sensi. Figlio di puttana.”

Matthews turned, instructing the nurses to leave the room. Once the door closed behind him, he walked over, sitting in one of the chairs, pinching the ridge of his nose.

“Richard…” Anthony stood, wrapping the sheet around his hips, “I need to know what happened, so please…” he took shuffling steps forward, “tell me what’s going on!?! And why am I naked?!”

Appearing atop the lighthouse on the railed walkway around the bulb, Jonathan released his grip from around Yzavela’s waist, then turned to Erik, feeling a burning sensation on his hands. Raising his gaze, he looked at her, watching as she backed away, engulfed in her Aura that seemed brighter than what he, and Erik, remembered. Even her small dragon Abraxas, matured some, as he perched himself upon her small shoulder, stretching out his massive wingspan, shrieking softly.

“Yza.” Jonathan smiled.

“Keeps.” Erik muttered.

“Who else would I be?!” I teased, extinguishing my Aura. Feeling as the sword loosened from my grip, dropping it onto the walkway, and urging Abraxas off my shoulder, I rushed forward wanting to hug my friends but they backed away, as if they were both afraid of me and my Aura, “Guys, it’s all right. I’m not going to burn you, look…” my hands reached for theirs, showing them I was no threat, then just before I could speak, I let out a brief squeak, being pulled into their shared embrace.

“We’re so glad you’re back!” Jonathan cheered, pulling away.

“Couldn’t have happened at a better time too.” Erik added.

“I missed you guys.” I looked at them both, “Jonathan, I like the vest, it’s very you.” I smiled, then glanced at Erik, who flinched, holding his ribs, with cuts and scrapes visible on his handsome face, neck and hands, “Are you all right?” I worried softly.

“I was just thrown through a bloody window, what do you think? I probably have glass in places I don’t want to think of.” he groaned, “But you can thank your lover for that, no doubt.”

“Erik, come on…” Jonathan mumbled, shaking his head, “don’t do this, Yza’s back!” he gestured at her, “You should be happy about that.”

“And I am, I just…”

“No, uh-uh…as much as I would love for this to continue, one of you are going to tell me what the hell that was back there in the dining hall?!” I wondered, then turned, overlooking the island from this point-of-view.

“To be honest love, I don’t know what happened.” Erik mumbled.

“Neither do I.” Jonathan rasped softly, looking at her.

“Well, something must have happened because that would not have happened for nothing.” I argued, glancing between the two Demons that stood on either side of me, “So you’re going to tell me, I could really care less who it is, but you’re going to tell me, because that isn’t the welcome home that I was expecting.” I huffed, “Not that I was expecting one, but you know what I mean.” I shrugged gently.

“We would’ve planned something for you, but…” Jonathan turned, leaning his back against the waist-high railing around the walkway, “then Leonus barged into the hall, drunk as Hell ha-ha no surprise, and well, what you saw pretty much explained the rest.” he looked at Erik.

“He’s right.” Erik mumbled, “But now I can’t help but feel like I’m a bloody failure.” he turned away, not wanting Yzavela to look at him.

“Why?!” both Jonathan and Yzavela questioned.

“Because…” Erik turned back to them, “I couldn’t protect you.” his gray eyes looked at her.

“That’s what you’re worried about?!” I argued softly, “Erik, there was nothing you could do, it was happening too fast and I’m not upset at you for it.” I comforted, “It’s Leonus that’s responsible for this, not you, or you.” I glanced at Jonathan, “And if it weren’t for you, even Wyatt and the others that were there, I would have returned to an island butchered by Lycynians.” and as I spoke about the paranormal species, I remembered that moment where one of them showed just a single moment of weakness, “Um, I know I probably should not ask this right now, but…” I shuffled around the Demons, “was Anthony there too?”

Erik frowned, letting out a deep, scoffing sigh.

Jonathan bit his lip.

“Well?” I turned to them, waiting for a reply.

“Yeah, he was uh…he was there.” Jonathan mumbled softly, as his blue eyes wandered everywhere but at her.

“Jonathan?” I moaned, “Look at me…please? With those big blues?”

“He was part of this you know, that whole bloody thing.” Erik said in a blunt, mocking tone, “He shifted just like Leonus and the others that came in to back him up. Geez, I can’t believe you care about him so much. He could have killed us all, did you know that, he could’ve.” he shook his head, “And you know, when I think about it, that was him that threw me out the window!” he argued loudly, expressively waving his arms around before wrapping them around his ribs when a stabbing ache pinched.

“But he didn’t do that.” I argued, “And I’m glad you’re Jonathan.”

“You don’t know that he wouldn’t!” Erik finished.

“Um…” Jonathan raised a hand, wanting to say something, “uh…”

“But I do!” I steamed profusely, then caught myself and temperament, “Look, I can’t imagine what it was like for you in that situation, and I won’t pretend to know, but I am not and will not, stand here and justify my concerns for others that aren’t you!” I sneered at Erik, knowing he saw the flickering flame in my dark eyes, “We have all been through things these past two years, you have, I have, we all have! It’s not all about you, and your hurt feelings!”

“Hey, come on guys, don’t do this!” Jonathan interrupted, suddenly feeling like the third wheel in the conversation and relationship that was between friends, “Let’s just take steps back and rewind, yeah?”

“Jonathan’s right.” I turned, huffing slightly, “I’m sorry.” I knew that my temperament was getting in the way. Glancing at the Demons, it was just before Jonathan could mutter another word, when Caleb in a swift burst of black mist, appeared, startling Abraxas, who nearby on the railing, released a loud squawk in annoyance, followed by a bright stream of fire toward the Wraith, “Abraxas, no….” I gently reached out, grabbing the dragon’s snout.

“Whoa, hey…easy-easy!” Caleb froze, holding his hands in surrender, “It’s just me, it’s just Caleb.” his wide, dark eyes glanced toward his friends that stood ahead of him, “Are you three all right?!”

“Yeah man…” Jonathan reached out, patting his arm.

“Bloody peachy.” Erik complained.

“Hi, just Caleb. I’m fine.” I reassured, then turned to Abraxas, “You and I are going to have a talk, but right now, go fly and stretch your wings.” I pulled him into my arms, then gently tossed him into the air, allowing him to fly. Sighing softly, I turned back to my friends, “I’m not the one you should worry about.” I looked at Jonathan and Erik, “You two should get to the hospital, have your wounds looked at.” I worried, “I can’t imagine what a Lycynian’s scratch would do if goes untreated.” I approached them, “Do this for me, please?”

Looking at her pleading expression, the Demons couldn’t say no.

“How can we say no to a face like that?” Jonathan teased softly.

“Never could.” Erik muttered affectionately.

“Thank you.” I smiled, then glanced past them toward Caleb, “How about you, are you all right?!”

“Nothing a good feeding, and drink afterwards can’t fix.” the Wraith flashed one of his charming, but fanged smiles.

“Right.” I mumbled, then looked at Erik and Jonathan once more, “Go, please. Keeper’s orders. No ifs, ands or buts.”

“Only because you asked so nicely.” Erik nodded.

“Yes, Ma’am.” Jonathan bowed his head.

“Don’t call me Ma’am.” I joked, “I’ll catch up with you later.”

“What about you?” Jonathan wondered.

“I think I’ll stay up here for a bit. I need time to think.” I rasped.

“Okay.” Erik muttered, “Catch you later, Keeps.”

“Yep.” I smiled then turned, “Get those scratches looked at.”

As Erik and Jonathan disappeared, Caleb stayed behind momentarily.

“You know, this isn’t exactly the welcome home we planned for you.”

“So I’ve heard.” I looked at him with a faint grin, “To be honest, I’m glad there wasn’t one because I don’t think I would have been in the mood for the balloons, confetti, cake or music. Not after what I have been through and coming home to that?!” I shook my head, “Nope, this is what I get.” I sighed then looked at him closely, noticing that he had dark shadows under, and around, his dark eyes, “Since when do you have shadows under your eyes?”

“Ah…” he nodded with a cocky grin, “well, you can thank that bulk Leonus for that.”

“Why?”

“The bloody bastard hasn’t ordered the blood supply for any of the Wraiths for the last few months, and we’re starting to go a little mad, fighting off the urge to go to the mainland to feed.” he complained, “Or worse, sharing some of the mortals that are coupled with some of the Wraiths here on the island.”

“The blood supply?” I was confused, “I didn’t leave him in charge of that, you and Nick should have been responsible for that, Justin and Thomas too, if neither of you were available.”

“Yeah, well…he thought otherwise. The Wraiths can’t stand it much longer.” the Englishman muttered, “And I’m sorry to say this love, but you’re starting to look a bit tasty there. Your heart is racing just a wee bit too fast.”

“Caleb, keep your pearly whites to yourself.” I took a step back, “My neck, or any other body part is off limits.” I felt uneasy in his tall, slender supernatural presence.

“Yza, don’t worry.” Caleb reassured her, reaching out, gently taking her hands, “I’ve been doing this for quite a long time, I think I know how to control my urges.”

“Right.” I chuckled for his attempt at making that sound charming failed, “But that son-of-a-b*tch!” I cursed, “Is that it, or is there more I should know that Erik and Jonathan haven’t told me?!”

“Nope, I think that’s about it.” Caleb teased, “Now, I could take you down if you’d like. I’m sure your mum is worried about you, hmm? I got a call from one of the Guardians, she’s in her room back at the mortal dwelling so she’s at least safe and sound.”

“That’s good, thank you.”

“Zanzabarr, however, we don’t know where he is.” Caleb added.

“Zanzabarr?” I looked at him, “I left him with her.”

“The Guardians mentioned that, but then after you stepped through the portal, he broke from your mum’s grasp and ran off, no one has seen him and you can’t miss him around.” he shrugged, “I’ve heard he got bigger.”

“Um, maybe a little and definitely more protective so yeah, I think we should go.” I urged, and just before the Wraith and I could leave the lighthouse behind, I heard another voice shouting out my name. I wasn’t sure where, or who, it was coming from, “Who’s that?!”

Leaning over the railing, Caleb’s enhanced vision caught the glimpse of Anthony pacing around the cottage attached to the lighthouse before he disappeared inside. Growing a faint grin, he turned to the young woman behind him.

“What’s the matter, who is it?!” I wondered.

“That would be your knight in hospital gowns.” the Wraith teased.

“What?!” I didn’t get the joke.

“Anthony, it’s Anthony.” Caleb revealed, telling her quickly about the man’s involvement in the whole fiasco in the dining hall, and at least he didn’t make it sound like Anthony was responsible for it, “I mean yes he was there, but he wanted to break it up, however, he did get caught in the middle, especially once he shifted, it was difficult for him to know who he should show loyalty to.” he finished, “But we all saw it, that moment where he recognized you.”

“I remember.” I bit my lip.

“Listen, don’t tell him I said this cause you know, Wraiths and mutts don’t get along but, I like Anthony, he’s a pretty good guy and that uh, says a lot about their species you know?” Caleb whispered softly, “He’s the only one that all of the Wraiths can say they respect.”

“Thank you for saying that.” I appreciated his genuine words.

Anthony ran through the small cottage attached to the lighthouse; he rushed toward a door along the rear wall that led to a staircase that had been sealed off, for there was no need for it since it was Demons and Wraiths that had been assigned duties as lighthouse Keepers. He broke the lock with such ease and strength, using his strong hands, and once the lock fell to the ground, he swung the door open, then swiftly ascended the swirling stairs.

“Anthony!” one of the Guardians called out after him.

“God damn it…” another muttered impatiently.

“Let him go…” Wyatt appeared, “he’s not hurting anyone.”

“What’s he going up there for?!” another Guardian wondered.

“I got word from Erik that Yza’s up there.” Wyatt raised his gaze.

“Up there?! What’s she doing up there?!” the Guardian questioned, “I mean, how did she even get up there in the first place? Does she teleport now?”

“Jonathan and Erik took her to the first place they thought she’d feel safe, and it is beautiful up there.” Wyatt mumbled, placing a hand on the man’s shoulder.

“Ah.” the man nodded, then approached the doorway, and as his eyes veered upward, he watched as the Italian continued the ascent without losing his breath, “But he’s barefoot and dressed in hospital scrubs, isn’t he freezing?”

“He’s a Lycynian, remember? They don’t feel the cold as we do, but he will in a little while once his adrenaline wears offs.” Wyatt offered a faint grin, “He’s not a Twilight wolf you know, that runs around the island shirtless and in jean shorts.”

“Oh please.” one of the Guardians rolled his eyes.

“Yzavela!” Anthony’s voice shouted, and echoed loudly.

“Oh my god, is he really coming up here?” I rasped shyly, looking at Caleb, combing my hair behind my ears.

“Yep.” Caleb smiled, then turned, approaching the door. Hearing the loud thumps against it from the other side, the cocky Wraith argued, “Oi, hold on…hold on...” he unlocked it, carefully pulling open the old iron and steel door that hadn’t been opened in years, so it stuck to the frame from the wet, and cold weather. Once it swung open, he joked a greeting, “Hello.” he smiled, then stepped aside, allowing the Italian to pass.

Watching as Anthony swept past Caleb, breathing heavily with sweat on his neck and brow, I ran forward jumping in his arms, for I didn’t care. Feeling his arms tightly wrap around my waist, it made me want, and miss him more. Feeling him lift my feet off the ground, twirling me around in a single turn, I giggled then felt as he gently placed my feet back on the steel walkway.

“No kiss?!” I teased, placing my hands on his chest, looking into his dark eyes.

“You don’t have to tell me twice!” Anthony whispered. Pulling her close, placing his lips upon hers in a long, lingering moment, he had hoped this wasn’t another dream, “Tell me this is real.” he rasped, leaning his head against hers, “Oh please tell me this is real.”

“It’s real.” I ran my hands along his neck, “Besides, I don’t think you would imagine Caleb as part of our reunion, hmm?” I laughed, then I looked toward the Wraith that wanted to make sure it was all right to leave, “It’s all right Caleb, I’ll be fine. Thank you.” I reassured.

“Caleb…” Anthony turned to the young Wraith, “thank you.”

“Sure thing.” Caleb smiled then vanished.

Looking back at her, Anthony finished.

“I’ve missed you.” he gently stroked her cheek, then ran his fingers through her hair before kissing her again.

“And I’ve missed you too, two years is too long.” I held him close then stepped back, holding his hands, studying him up and down, “Um, why are you dressed in hospital scrubs and barefoot?!”

“Ah yes, that.” he smiled, looking down at himself, “Well, I’m sure you know by now that I shifted, yes?” he watched as she nodded, “The next thing I knew, I woke up in the hospital chained to the bed like an animal. And naked.”

“Mm, kinky.” I joked then realized, “So that was you.” I replayed the moment when the Lycynian recognized me in its shifted form.

“I don’t remember anything during the shift but from what I’ve been hearing about that moment, I suppose it was.” he nodded, taking her hands, “I imprinted remember, now come here.” he cupped her face, kissing her again, not wanting to let her go. Breaking the kiss, he then turned her around, feeling her back pressing against his chest. Slowly, and affectionately, he wrapped his arms around her waist, then leaned in kissing her neck, supplying fierce tickles, “I’ve missed that laugh.” he smiled, listening to her pleasant and feminine squeals.

“There’s many more to come.” I turned, then eyed him up and down, “You know, this is a good look.” I teased, running my hands up his forearms, “But hold on…” I took a quick walk around, “bummer, no black flap.” my hands followed the curve of his muscular back that I couldn’t wait to grab onto.

“Well, I couldn’t exactly run through RP&V with my bare a** in the wind, now could I, little Yza?” he teased, closing his eyes, feeling her sensual and affectionate touch.

“No, I suppose not.” I stood in front of him, “But the mental image is very good.” I smiled flirtatiously.

“If you say so, little Yza…if you say so.” he took her hands in his once more, then led her away from the railing and bulb, “Let’s get out of here now, hmm?” he urged softly, “I need to mate.” he joked, flashing his yellow eyes, receiving a giggle in reply.

That was a joke between us, whenever he was sexually excited, he would say those words, giving a clear sign of his intentions.

“As do I, my dear Tony…as do I.” I purred softly, then as I turned, for a moment, I gazed across the island, and from this height, it had provided a much different outlook compared to that of riding Axeon or Abraxas, “Wow…this is beautiful.” I gasped in admiration.

Anthony, turning to observe the sight for himself, grew a smile, for he too, had never seen the Isle like this either. Standing behind her, he wrapped his around her once more, leaning his head against hers, taking in her feminine scents of her perfume and shampoo. Glancing at the sky, he watched as Abraxas flew among the flock of Ravens, releasing loud roars and squawks before soaring lower, landing on the railing in front of them.

“He’s grown.” he admired the small dragon that stretched his wings, and flicked his tail before wrapping it around the railing for leverage.

“Yes he has, and so have his powers.” I smiled, then glanced upward at my Anthony, “You should see him shift, it’s incredible.

“Shift?” Anthony wondered.

“Yeah, there’s a lot to tell you about my two years in Ireland.” I took his hands in mine, “Now, let’s get out of here and go somewhere a bit warmer, hmm?” I glanced down, seeing his bare feet, “I still can’t believe you ran through the village and snow, looking like this.”

“Something that was mine, was taken from me, and I was going to stop at nothing to get it back.” the Italian proclaimed softly, “Even if that meant I had a back flap and yes…” he too, glanced down at his feet, “barefoot.” he flexed his toes against the steel walkway.

I smiled, knowing he would, then chuckled at that mental image.

“What’s so funny?” Anthony looked at her with a smile, “What?!”

“Nothing, I’m sorry.” I laughed, “Nevermind.” I stood on my toes, kissing him quickly, “Come on, big bad wolf.”

Anthony smiled, then let out a deep sexual growl.

“Abraxas…” I turned to the small dragon, “return to the dwelling and find my mother, make sure she’s all right, and Zanzabarr too, wherever he is.”

“Yes, Mother.” the dragon nodded, then leered at the Lycynian that stood by her side, “You take care of my mother.”

Anthony’s dark eyes widened, hearing the dragon verbally speak.

“Did he just?” he muttered.

“Mm-hmm.” I smiled.

“So he?”

“Yep.”

“And I just?”

“Go with it.” I nudged him gently, “You know Axeon talks right?”

“Right.” Anthony nodded, then continuing to glance back at Abraxas, he watched as he pushed himself off the rail, soaring through the air, “Wow.” he admired.

“You get to used to it after a while.” I finished, “Now come on…”