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

Residents emerged from their room, making their way downstairs, hearing an eerie silence outside, after the eruptions of loud explosions and shouts of fighting men and flying bullets popping loudly. As Lady D and Katrina stood by the front doors, their eyes watched through the sheer curtains seeing figures approaching. Growing fearful, backing away from the door, they shrieked when loud knocks banged hard. Holding their weapons, pots and pans, Lady D slowly approached the window, peeking along the gap near the frame.

“Mommy?!” her daughter’s voice called out.

Sighing in relief, Lady D sheathed her athame, quickly rushing to the door, unlocking it but trying to pull it open, it was still bound by the magic that the Demons had put in place.

“Take it down…” she turned to the older Demons that gathered in the lounge. Stepping back as Katrina pulled her around the large, and curved couch, she watched as the men dismantled the barriers put in place, “is that it, is it done?” she pestered.

“Yes, Ma’am.” one of the men nodded, turning to the woman.

Both Katrina and Lady D rushed forward, unlocking the door.

“Oh my god…” Lady D held out her arms, greeting her daughter. As she pulled away, studying her face that was covered in soot and sweat, she combed strands of hair out of her face, then glanced past her, in Anthony’s direction, “Are you all right?”

“Si, thank you.” the Italian nodded, “Just…” he huffed, shifting his stance, placing his hands on his hips, “tired.” he shrugged.

“Of course…of course.” Lady D fretted.

“Is everyone okay?” I asked, glancing past my mom’s shoulder inside.

“What happened?!” Katrina approached, bombarding Yzavela with her immediate, pestering questions.

“Honestly?” I looked into her eyes, “I don’t know, I really don’t.” my voice quivered, “I don’t know how they found us out here.” I glanced at my mom worriedly.

“Are we safe here anymore?!” a man argued bluntly.

“What are you going to do?!” another woman pleaded loudly, laying a frying pan on the table by the kitchen.

“That’s enough!” Lady D turned to the crowd behind her, “Enough!”

“But Lady D, I think we have the right to know what it is she’s going to do!”

“I swear Sir, if you don’t shut up…I’m going to take that rolling pin in your hand…” the woman gestured at the man’s choice of weapon, “and roll out whatever balls you have left between your legs!”

Anthony’s eyes grew wide.

“Remind me to never get her that angry at me.” he teased, leaning in close, whispering in Yzavela’s ear.

Giggling softly, I glanced at him, placing a hand on his chest.

“That’s if there’s anything left after I’m doing with you.” I teased, and I wasn’t sure if maybe it was the right time but leaning forward, I began laughing so hard, tears escaped the corners of my tired eyes. As I leaned against the door frame, catching my breath, I glanced back at Anthony, then over toward my mom, laughing even more.

Lady D and Anthony glanced at each other, then began chuckling.

Katrina looked around at the other residents, wondering what was so humorous but then she watched as some of the men and women had grown faint grins, for the young woman’s laughter was contagious.

“Whoa…” I caught my breath, clearing my throat, “sorry about that, I don’t know where that came from, but anyway…” I combed back my hair, “I’ve given instructions on cleanup efforts, so if any of you would like to add a helping hand, not for my sake but for the islands’ you’re more than welcome to do so. Now, if you’ll excuse me I need to make sure Leonus isn’t trying to kill anyone.” I nodded at all of the men and women that gathered in the lounge, then turned away with Anthony, reaching for his hand.

“I’m coming with you.” Lady D affirmed.

“Me too.” Katrina added.

“Us three!” Margaret cried softly.

“No…” I turned to the two young girls, “I don’t want you out there.”

“But…” Belle whimpered.

“Girls…” Katrina approached, “don’t argue, go to your rooms.” she urged them toward the stairs where other women gently pulled them into their embraces, “Go on…” she grinned. Sighing softly, watching as her daughters disappeared up the narrow staircase, she turned and offered a respectful nod.

“Thank you.” I returned the nod, then glanced at my mom, “I don’t want you lifting anything heavy, there are barrels, push carts and a few wagons in the garage you can use but please, take it easy.” I laid a hand on my mom’s shoulder, then glanced toward Katrina.

“Fair enough.” the Wiccan agreed.

Following the path leading back to the gates, men scampered from to and from the garage, pushing the carts, wagons and rolling large bins and barrels. Growing closer, I listened to the loud gasps of my mom, Katrina and other residents that offered their assistance. Glancing at them, I watched as they held their hands to her chests in disbelief.

“If you don’t want to do this , no one would blame you.” I rasped.

“No, we want to.” a man nodded.

Putting aside their fear, the men and women began gathering smaller debris and torn fabric from the scattered sails and masts, avoiding the task of carrying the burnt bodies. Shovels too, were brought forth to scoop piles of ash and splintered wood planks.

As I shuffled around with an armful of planks, something to my left had caught my gaze. Growing closer to a cluster of black lumps, I let out a soft gasp seeing the feathered bodies of many Ravens that had lost their lives in trying to attack the Shadowed Ones. Emptying my arms, tossing the wood aside creating that unsettling clanking sound, I slowly strolled over, kneeling down with a faint squeak, gently and carefully, picking up one of their fragile feathered bodies, holding it in my arms like a child. Stroking its sleek feathers that were now dull, lacking its shine and luster of life, I whispered words of sentiment. I closed my eyes, placing a soft kiss against its chest then as I pulled my head away, it simply vanished, leaving black lingering wisps.

“What the…” I looked around, watching as the other corpses had all vanished in the same manner, being swept in a strong breeze, “I don’t understand.” I frowned.

“Most, if not all, of those Ravens were spirits of the dead that once lived here.” Azir approached, standing behind her, watching the birds disappear, “They offered to give their lives in service of protecting the island.”

Turning to the Jinn, I stood, dusting off my hands.

“I, uh…I didn’t know that.”

“I’m surprised Marxus didn’t tell you.” Azir wondered.

“There are a lot of things that man didn’t tell me.” I complained.

“Well, we will just have to rectify that won’t we?” Azir looked at her, “There are many things about this place that have yet to be revealed.”

“Of course there are.” I groaned, then glanced across the estate, and even though I didn’t have my glasses that were lost among the rubble somewhere, I could see faint, blurry figures emerging from the grand dwelling near the garage, “Great, just what I don’t need are Lycynians starting an uprising.” I glanced up at Azir, then strolled ahead swiftly returning to my own efforts to cleanup.

“Yza, what are you doing?” Jonathan argued, gently dropping wood planks out of her arms, tossing them away.

“What does it look like I’m doing, I’m cleaning.” I argued.

“No, come on…” Jonathan reached for her hands, “don’t do this.”

“Why not?” I complained, “I’m not going to let everyone do this by themselves.”

“They’re not by themselves, Yza come on…” Jonathan argued again, “you know what I mean.”

Sighing heavily, I knew what he was trying to do and I didn’t blame him but glancing to my left, hearing Wyatt and Justin speaking just a little louder than expected, I heard them mention Nick and Caleb at the hospital.

“Hospital?” I worried, shuffling toward them, “Why, what happened to Nick and Caleb?” I looked around, wondering where they could have been during all of this.

Justin turned to her, placing a hand on her shoulder. Looking deeply into her wide, dark eyes, he muttered softly, telling her about what had taken place.

“What?!” I shrieked with worry, “Oh my god, is he…is he still alive?”

“He is, but Caleb says Matthews is worried.” the Wraith sighed.

“Wh-why?”

“After the Shadowed One fed on him, I can’t explain what happened, but Nick wasn’t drained like their other victims, you’ve seen them, I know you’re familiar with it, but now Nick is starving as if he hasn’t fed in ages.” Justin sighed worriedly, placing his hands on his hips. He looked at Wyatt, finishing quickly, “He looks like a Wraith that might have been locked away for centuries without blood, that’s the only way that I even explain it.”

“Oh my god…” I pondered, pacing nervously, “but he’s alive.” I felt tears stinging my eyes, because I care for Nick like a big brother.

“Yes.” Justin nodded, “Thank god.”

“And Caleb? Is he all right, he wasn’t attacked was he?” I muttered.

“No.” the Wraith reassured.

“Okay…” I nodded, “okay, good. I should go check on them,”

“Yza, no.” Wyatt affirmed, stepping forward, “You should get some rest, you’re tired and need to regain your strength. If we lose you, we lose everything.”

Looking at him, I frowned. Even though I appreciated their concern, I knew I was being stubborn, but at the same time, the Wraith and Demons weren’t taking into consideration that I wouldn’t be able to rest, not until I knew my friends were safe and well.

“As much as I appreciate your concern, I’m not going anywhere.” I stood my ground, “I’m not saying this as your friend, but as Keeper.”

Knowing the argument was over, and that she made up her mind, the Wraith and Demons nodded respectfully.

“We’re just worried about you, that’s all.” Wyatt muttered softly, “I think you know that.”

“I know, and I appreciate it, truly I do but I don’t want the constant hovering around me, I can’t stand it.” I huffed, “But fine, I will go to my room and rest, but only for a few hours and then I’m right back here.”

“Of course.” Justin nodded.

“Mm.” I moaned, offering the two Guardians form hugs, “Thanks.”

“No problem.” Wyatt grinned.

Backing away I turned, making my way down the path, moving some debris aside with my feet, then met Anthony along the way, knowing he overheard the conversation taking place between my and the two Guardians.

“Do you think I was, or am, being too stubborn?” I asked, looking at him, holding onto his right arm tightly, as if not wanting to let go.

“Stubborn? Si, maybe a little but it works both ways. Both Justin and Wyatt weren’t taking into consideration that you are a caring person, thinning about others above herself and that my darling…” Anthony paused, looking down at her, “is one of the many, many things that I love about you.” he leaned in, kissing her softly, “But they are right, I do think you need to rest before you run yourself down too much. I am not speaking to you as one of the resident, but as someone who is there for you, and loves you, so please…if you don’t want to do it for them, do it for me?” he pleaded softly, looking into her dark eyes.

“For you, anything. Always.” I smiled, then hugged him closely, “But I am still going to…”

“Shh.” Anthony placed a finger to her lips, “Rest first. No argument.” he took her hands in his, then led her back to her dwelling, and in an awkward, eerie silence, he couldn’t help but wonder and worry about her.

Once returning to my room, I remained silent watching as Abraxas and Zanzabarr scampered toward the fireplace, feeling the warmth of its flames. Rubbing my arms, feeling an unsettling chill, I turned to Anthony who quietly closed, and locked the door.

“Anthony…” my voice quivered, for everything was hitting me now.

Turning to her, watching as she began to cry, he stepped toward her. Pulling her into his arms, feeling her arms wrap around his waist, he leaned his head against hers.

“I’m scared, Anthony.” I whispered, looking up at him, “Out there…” I sniffled, “when I couldn’t find you, I thought I lost you.” my tears streamed down my face, “My heart stopped, and I couldn’t breathe.”

“Hey, look at me.” he placed his hands on her waist, “I’m right here, I am not going anywhere.” he then gently cupped her face, “I’m not.” he kissed her cheek, then leaned against her.

“Anthony?” I whimpered.

“Si, my darling.” he answered her softly.

“Marry me.” I spat the words.

“Wh-what?” Anthony pulled away, looking down at her curiously.

“Marry me.” I repeated.

Looking around, Anthony was confused.

“What’s the matter?” I wiped my tears away, “Y-you don’t want to?”

“I didn’t say that, of course I do.” he argued softly, “It’s just…”

“Marry me then.” I pleaded, “Right here and now, just you and me. I know it seems like I’m putting you on the spot but after tonight with those bastards invading our home, and thinking that I might’ve lost you?” I cried, “That’s not something I never want to feel again, and in case something else happens, I want to be yours, I want to be your wife.” I studied him, “Just you and me, under the eyes of God…” I placed my hands on his chest, knowing his beliefs, “and the goddess.” I refereed to my Wiccan beliefs, “And of course my Zanzabarr and Abraxas will be our witnesses.”

Scanning her face, studying her features, Anthony ran his hands up and down her back, before settling them on her waist. Leaning in, he kissed her longingly, then pulled away, smiling gleefully.

“Is that a yes?” I hinted.

“Si, yes.” he answered her eagerly, “Yes.” he kissed her again, “And I think now is the perfect time to wear this then?” he reached into his pocket, removing another small ring box. Opening it, he revealed a man’s wedding ring that matched her own, “It came with yours.” and just as he was about to place it on his finger, he watched as Yzavela intercepted.

“No, let me do it.” I reached for the ring, placing it on his finger, “Is that okay?” I looked up at him.

“It’s perfect.” he grinned, fiddling with the feel of the ring, “I love it, and I love you.” he kissed her again, then lifted her into his arms. As he felt her arms wrap around her neck, and legs wrap tightly around his waist, he turned, carrying her toward her bed, gently laying upon the blankets. Leaning in above her, he continued kissing her, listening to her soft moans and squeaks from his lips and touch, “Wife.” he whispered, looking down at her, “I love the sound of that.” he gently nudged his nose against hers.

“Me too, husband.” I bit my lip through a smile, while my hands ran down his chest, “Kiss me…” I pleaded softly, yearning to feel him.

Slowly undressing one another, feeling their naked bodies pressing firmly against one another, this time aside from the other loving, and heatedly passionate moments, it felt different because it was as if just naming each other husband and wife, bonded them in a spiritual and natural way that couldn’t be explained.

Hours later, leaning my back against Anthony’s chest, we interlocked our fingers, staring at our rings.

“This is a good look.” I smiled, looking up at him.

“Yes, yes it is.” Anthony leaned in kissing her cheek and neck. As he received a faint squeal, he tightly wrapped his arms around her waist, “We will have to at least tell our families, don’t you think?” his soft voice whispered in her.

“Of course.” I smiled, turning to face him, straddling him, “Because I want to see you in that tux that Thomas mentioned days ago, making you look all sorts of sexy.” I kissed him.

“And I…” Anthony growled, combing her hair back, “want to see you in that dress that I will enjoy…” he leaned in, kissing her neck, “taking it off slowly.” he ran his hands down her back, watching as her petite frame steamed passionately.

“That should do it for now.” Jonathan looked around, seeing most of the rubble and debris had been piled up near the gates. Yawning, he looked at Sarah who huffed nearby, “Hey, are you all right?”

“Yeah, just…tired.” she panted, sitting on the grass.

“We should tell Yza that it’s been piled and ready for sorting.” Erik muttered, sitting nearby.

“Why, she needs to rest.” Jonathan argued.

“So do we Jonathan, but since Anthony isn’t here, I’m sure rest is the last thing on their minds.” he mocked arrogantly.

“Bloody hell Erik, would you just piss off the edge of a cliff already?” Sarah complained, “We’re so tired of hearing your whining, and your complaining about Yza and Anthony, deal with it! She’s not yours, she never was so what she does and who she’s with it, is none of your bloody business.” she looks at Jonathan, “I can’t deal with this, see you later.” she stood, shuffling away, looking for Nathan somewhere.

“She’s right you know.” Jonathan mumbled, shaking his head, “You are too obsessed over what Yza does, and who she’s with. Let it go.”

Erik frowned, then huffed, stood stomping off.

“Pfft.” Jonathan hissed, then glanced toward the gates, watching as Wyatt and Justin stood between Derek and Leonus that were loudly arguing, “Sh*t.” he groaned, disappearing quickly, reappearing in the mortal dwelling standing outside Yzavela’s room. Knocking softly, he listened as a dragon and wolf roared and howled, thumping hard against the door. Backing away, listening to a woman’s voice chase them away, the door opened slightly, “Yza?” he wondered.

“Yeah?” I peeked my head through the gap of the door, dressed only in Anthony’s white shirt.

“Um…” Jonathan stood awkwardly, trying not to scan down at her legs that he had never seen bare, “I just uh…wanted to let you know that most of the debris has been piled up by the gates, and that both Derek and Leonus are arguing about something who knows what, and that Azir is looking for you.” he cleared his throat, then spotted Anthony moving around behind her, dressed only in his brief, “I’m going to go.” he looked away, then scampered down the hall.

“Jonathan!” I called out, stepping out into the hall. Glancing down at myself, I realized how awkward it must have been, “Oh.” I mumbled, then turned to Anthony who stood by the bed, looking oh so sexy as he began dressing quickly, “Oops.” I teased, closing the door, “But I guess our peace wouldn’t last forever.”

“Unfortunately.” Anthony grinned, “I’ll be needing my shirt back.”

“No.” I smiled.

“Yza?” Anthony growled softly.

“You want it?” I gestured at myself, “Come and get it.” I purred.

Flashing his yellow eyes, growing a sly sexy grin, Anthony took slow steps toward her. Pulling her close, he began unbuttoning the shirt, revealing her naked body underneath. Letting out a deep sexual growl, he slid it off her shoulders, tossing it aside as he swept her into his arms.

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“I don’t care!” Leonus boasted, “She should have alerted us of this!”

“She already told you, there wasn’t time for that!” Derek barked.

“I wasn’t talking to you!” the Scotsman leered at the Samoan, “And I don’t care to hear what you have to say, being her newest a** kisser.” he mocked.

“Nah, see I’m not an a** kisser like them…” Derek leered toward the Lycynians that gathered around their alpha, “I’m loyal, there’s a big difference.”

“Loyal?” Leonus mocked him, “That’s what you call it? Is she givin’ you some tail too, is that it?!”

Growling deeply, Derek swung a firm fist, punching the Scotsman. As he watched the Scotsman stumble backwards into the arms of his loyalists, the Samoan flashed his yellow eyes, then quickly glanced behind him, seeing his comrades gathering around him for support.

“Is this what you want, Leonus?” Derek barked, “Really?” he held his arms out.

“What’s going on here?!” Azir approached, shouting loudly in heated temperament.

Leering at the Jinn, Leonus wiped his bleeding lip.

“This doesn’t concern you.” he growled.

“I beg to differ.” Azir warned firmly in a deep, unsettling tone.

“Yeah, and what are you going to do?” Leonus mocked, “Hmm? I’m already bound!” he raised his wrists, revealing the gauntlets that were masking their true purpose of steel shackles, “What more can you do to me?!”

“Don’t tempt me.” Azir warned once more, then eerily glanced over his shoulder, hearing Yzavela’s voice approaching, arguing with one of the Lycynians, “Saved by the Keeper, luck is on your side.”

“Luck?” Leonus spat, “F*ck you and your luck!”

“I don’t care what he says!” I argued, leering at the Lycynian, “Now, unless you want a matching set of shackles like your alpha, move it!”

Glaring at her, the man bit his lip, then veered down at the ground, where her dragon and wolf growled and hissed, quickly followed by Anthony’s presence.

“Fine, but this isn’t over.” he growled.

“When it come to you and your alpha, it never is.” I complained, as I folded my arms. Watching as the man backed away, sprinting back toward his alpha, I huffed deeply glancing back at Anthony, “I can’t believe this, it hasn’t even been a matter of hours yet since all of this happened, and they’re already trying to rip each others throats out.” I shook my head.

“Not everyone, especially Lycynians, can live peacefully.” he spoke truthfully.

“True.” I nodded, then turned, hearing Azir’s voice approach, “Talk about perfect timing, I was just coming to look for you.” I greeted.

“And I found you instead.” the Jinn greeted, then looked at Anthony.

“Um, I think I’ll go find Thomas.” Anthony suggested softly, “I’ll be around if you need me.” he winked.

“You better be.” I smiled, then watched him walk away. Letting out a soft sigh, I cleared my throat, looking at Azir, “Sorry.” I grinned.

“No need to apologize.” the Jinn returned the grin, “If one cannot find the joys of every moment with the ones they love and hold dear, then life is not worth living.” he turned, glancing toward Natash who stood with their kin, instructing them to continue moving the larger pieces of debris, “I know that all too well.”

“I would love to hear how the two of you met.” I rasped softly, “The love between you is like electricity.”

“Perhaps one day.” Azir nodded, looking down at her, “Now…” he respectfully dismissed the subject, “I was looking for you as well.”

“About that, what’s up?” I wondered curiously.

“Excuse me?” he glanced upward humorously.

“No, I didn’t…” I chuckled, “mean up UP but what would you like to talk to me about, that’s what I meant.”

“Ah, right…” Azir grinned, shaking his head, “well, I was wondering what you were planning to do after this?” he looked around.

“You’re asking me this now?” I complained.

“Why wouldn’t I?”

“Because we just…you know, got finished defending the island, and now the cleanup efforts are still taking place, plus I’m still processing everything.” I argued, gesturing at the scene around us, “I mean, look at it…” I watched as figures passed by, carrying debris, piling them into larger mounds near the gates, “how can I even think about I am going to do next?”

“Because this can happen again.” Azir answered her bluntly, “And if you are distracted by what you think you have to do, you will lose it all before you have the chance to even act on it.” he paused, studying her.

“What’s that look for?” I frowned, folding my arms, “There’s more to say, isn’t there? So go on, spit it out.” I urged.

“I will do no such th…” Azir attempted to argue, realizing that the phrase was part of her American ways, “I am curious yes, to know the actions that you will take after this, that is all.”

Studying his intense features, and clenching jaw, I broke my gaze. As I continued glancing around, thinking about what actions to take, my hands ran through my hair, combing it back. Letting out a deep huff, I nodded looking at the Jinn standing tall before me.

“First thing to do is to finish gathering all of the rubble, pile all of it outside the wall and burn it, I want it off these grounds.” I quickly gazed around the estate, “And in that process, I’ll ask Guardians that are tech savvy to search for anything that we can use to find out what it was they were looking for, maybe gadgets or plans that could give us intel on Lord Drakuul and General Matrx.”

“And the bodies?” Azir questioned, tucking his hands in the sleeves of his tunic.

“Well, since the Boar-wolves are gone, we can’t feed them to them.” I attempted a joke but realized how morbid that must have sounded, “Sorry, that was gross.” I grimaced.

“Gross, it was.” Azir raised a curious eyebrow.

“The bodies…the bodies….” I repeated to myself in different tones, “pile them up near the rubble and burn them as well.” I straightened my posture, “But first, I think we should somehow send Drakuul and Matrx a message that their attempts failed.”

“How so?” Azir studied her closely, learning about her and her way of thinking, and planning.

“What’s with all the questions?” I complained, “I’m tired and I just want to go back to my room and just sleep, I’m sure everyone else can agree on that.” I arched, stretching quickly, then yawned, “Sorry.”

“Everyone is tired yes, that is true, no one can deny that but I’m sure that during your training and lessons, wherever they might have come, that a warrior must always be prepared for anything, from anyone and anywhere, at any moment. And yes, that includes making swift decisions in a single moment, even if they might be bold or even spur of the moment. Go with your gut, it never fails or lies, then just take it from there. I have seen, and done a lot Yzavela, believe me, so trust me when I say that there is nothing you can say that will shock me.” the Jinn proclaimed, “Not in the slightest, so with that said, I would like to hear what it is you have in mind for the bodies, really. And no judgement.” he raised his hands.

Studying him, squinting my dark yes, he wanted my answer? Okay.

“It will be too much to carry, and too many of them, but send their heads back to the Great City.” I announced firmly, “Consider it one of those warrior-to-warrior codes, and even though I had never seen Drakuul lift a weapon to save his life, I’m sure Matrx will clearly, and without a doubt, understanding the message.” I nodded.

“Yes, Matrx is a very knowledgeable warrior indeed.” Azir nodded.

“However, if I am going to do that, I sure as Hell don’t have the god damn stomach to perform such actions, and I won’t ask any of my friends or Guardians to do such things, so…there goes that. Killing, and defending myself is one thing, but just slicing it off is something else entirely.”

“As I have said, I have seen and done many things so if you ask me to do this, I will.” Azir approved with an agreeable nod.

“Really? Just like that?” I pondered, snapping my fingers.

“Not just like that, no but it will be done.” Azir nodded.

“Um okay.” I looked around nervously, “Just uh, let me know when it’s done and we will take it from there, then decide how we’re going to deliver said heads to sender.”

“What the bloody hell?!” Erik’s voice muttered behind her.

As I turned, there he stood with a deep frown.

Azir glanced past Yzavela, studying the young man curiously.

“Hello to you too.” I greeted.

“Are you seriously going to do what I just heard you say you’re going to do?” Erik argued, looking down at her, then glanced at Azir who stood close behind her.

“I will leave that two of you alone to discuss things among yourselves, and search for Natash to inform her of the decisions made.” the Jinn affirmed.

“Go ahead and say it, Azir…you’re going to go talk about cutting off the heads of these men!” Erik barked, but the Jinn ignored his tone.

“Azir, I’ll be fine.” I turned to the Jinn, “Thank you.” I nodded. As I waited for him to walk away, once he was out of reach to hear harsh words, I turned back to Erik, “What the f*ck is your problem?!”

“Since when do you agree with cutting off heads?” the young man let out a deep grunt, “What’s happened to you, Keeps?!”

“First of all, my name is Yzavela.” I huffed, beginning to steam, “I’d like you to start calling me that, it’s not Keeps to you anymore. Now, as far as what I’ve said, it’s the only logical thing to do, in order to let our enemy know that we know, he knows about us.”

Tilting his head, Erik was confused.

“You’re not stupid Erik, don’t look at me like that.” I argued firmly.

“Yeah, I got it but it just…” Erik complained, placing his hands on his hips, “doesn’t sound like you, you’re becoming one of the men, so it seems in the way you think.”

“Excuse me?!” I taunted, “Becoming one of the men?! Please tell me, in what f*cking universe is that in any way true?!” I swore.

“Nevermind, that came out wrong. Sorry.” he cowered, giving up the conversation.

“Right, sure…you’re always sorry, but of all people that I’ve shared so much with, I can’t believe I’d ever see the day when you became a hypocrite.” I pushed past him, then paused muttering my last words over my shoulder, “We’re warriors Erik, you should know that once we pick up a sword, there’s no turning back and that there are times when you have to think like one. Surely Hiromi would understand.” I shook my head, then turned away, making my way toward a group of Guardians that stood around.

“Sh*t…” Erik cursed, “What the f*ck is wrong with you, Erik?” he taunted himself, “Why can’t you just keep your bloody mouth shut?” he shook his head, then shuffled toward Jonathan and Sarah that still continued moving debris.

“Get it done, thank you.” I nodded toward the Guardians, then got a call. Answering my phone, there was Caleb’s face on the screen, “Hey, I was just going to call you.” I greeted, “How’s Nick?”

“He’s fine.” the Wraith turned the phone around, showing the scene of his friend laying sleeping in the hospital bed.

“Caleb, how’s he doing…really doing?” I worried, taking a seat on the cold grass near the wall, leaning back against the smooth slate.

“Honestly?” Caleb answered her, glancing back at the bed, “I have no bloody clue, I mean…Matthews had no choice but to let him feed on some of the mortal nurses under supervision of course, but Yza…” he huffed worriedly, “what happened out there, was unlike anything I had ever seen. Nick and I, Justin too, the three of us have been in a lot of situations you know, but never like this.” he walked over, then slowly and quietly sat in the chair that was situated in the corner of the room.

“I can’t imagine what that was like, I can’t.” I worried, “But it’s Nick, he’s strong and he’ll make it through this.” I nodded comfortably, “I know he will, just have faith.”

“Yeah, I know but…doesn’t mean I don’t worry nonetheless. He’s my best friend, my brother you know.” he grinned affectionately, “I wouldn’t have been if it weren’t for him and Justin.” he looked down at his lap, then glanced toward the door, hearing one of the nurses, “I have to go, they’re going to chase my bum out of here, I will call you if anything happens.”

“Please do, and if he wakes, tell him that I’ll be there as soon as I can.”

“Will do love.” he smiled, then ended the call.

Once my screen turned black, I sighed heavily then closed my eyes.

“Is that spot taken?” a voice spoke softly.

Growing a faint smile, I opened my eyes.

“Nope, it’s just waiting for you.” I looked up at Anthony.

Grinning quickly, he crouched down, then sat beside her, holding her close. Leaning his head against her, he listened as she told him about what she had planned with Azir, and Nick’s condition.

“So you’re really going to do that?” he questioned, looking down at her as she gently pulled away.

“Unfortunately, I think it’s the best option we’ve got.” I pondered, “I can’t send a messenger, you know this Necromancer would never, in a million years, give up until he finds this place, so sending anyone in there would be insane.” I glanced at my hands that trembled slightly in my lap.

“Mm, well…” Anthony raised his eyebrows, “putting it that way, it makes sense.” he looked around, “What about Leonus, what do you think he’ll say when he finds out about this?”

“I honestly don’t care at this point.” I groaned, searching for the man, “Speaking of, where is he?”

“He’s outside the wall, stacking the debris you wanted burned.”

“Ah, okay…at least he’s doing that without argument.” I whispered.

“Oh, he’s arguing but Derek has put him in his place.” Anthony let a soft chuckle.

“What’s so funny?” I wondered, looking at him.

“Nothing, I was just…thinking that maybe Derek would make the second best Keeper for this island, don’t you think?” he looked down at her, gently running his hand along her neck and shoulder.

“You…are not wrong.” I grinned, “I’ve noticed that, which is why I am glad he’s on our side in our fight against Leonus and Drakuul. It makes things easier knowing I could trust someone else with things I need done, things that might be a surprise to others, like sending the heads back to the Great City.” I bit my lip, “Do you think I made a wise decision in doing that? I mean, do you think it makes me sound like a monster or…”

“A monster? You?” he gently stroked her cheek, “Never, my darling. If anything, it goes to show everyone here, and this Lord of the Great City that you’re not just some girl that’s running around like a small little squab without a head.”

“Squab?” I laughed.

“Well, you’re petite like one, so…” he shrugged, then laughed as she nudged him with her elbow, “hey careful, I’m still a little bruised.” he held a hand to his ribs.

“That’s not what you said hours ago.” I purred.

“Mm, true.” he flicked his eyes sensually.

“Mm.” I smiled, then glanced at his hand wearing his ring, but as my eyes stared at it glistening from certain angles, it was then I sensed an uneasiness lingering in the back of my mind, “Axeon.” I muttered.

“What?” Anthony wondered curiously.

“Oh my god, Axeon.” the words escaped my lips quickly, “I should go see him, I know he must have felt and sensed the events that have happened here.”

“Go…” Anthony urged softly, “it’s all right, I think everything here is handled well enough.” he stood, helping her to her feet, “Go, I will make sure things are finished here, with Azir’s supervision.”

“Thank you.” I leaned in, kissing him quickly. Backing away, I let out a faint squeal, feeling him gently slap a hand against my butt. As I glanced back, shaking my head, I watched as he bit his lip before I turned, focusing on the manor. Making my up the stairs, pushing the fatigue aside, I unlocked and opened the study door, then closed and locked it behind me quickly. Leaning against it, shaking my head, I took some deep breaths then pushed forward, approaching the large bookshelf. Pulling down on the secret book, the shelf slid open, and still managed to receive an awestruck reaction. Quickly shuffling into the passageway toward the iron door, I placed the pendant in its lock, then once it disappeared, revealing the black void leading below, my hands created small fiery orbs that illuminated the narrow staircase leading downward, “Here we go again…” I complained softly under my breathing, carefully shuffling down the rocky steps, then once I entered the massive cavern, I glanced ahead watching as Axeon stood, pacing nervously with his wings folded close along his body, “Axeon?” I greeted the great dragon.

Turning his head quickly, the blue dragon watched as the half-breed approached. As he moved his body, facing her, the thumping of his feet echoed throughout the cavern.

“What happened, and why was I not summoned?” he objected in a verbal voice, “What was I not called upon to protect the island?” he looked down at her.

“Axeon, please…calm down.” I urged, reaching out my hands.

Lowering his head, gently nudging his large snout against her small hands, Axeon allowed her soft touch. Closing his eyes, sharing all of the images of the events that took place, he groaned deeply, sensing it as if experiencing it all for himself. Squinting, he slowly pulled away, looking at her closely, tilting his head.

“Why was I not summoned?” he pestered her bluntly.

“Because I didn’t want you involved.” I argued, “Believe me Axeon, I would have called on you…Azir wanted to, but I’ve sensed that there is a weakness in you, more like the energy that you possess is more or less, diminishing.” I worried greatly, “And for that, I wasn’t going to put your life at risk for something that we managed on our own.” I paced, “Besides, you haven’t told me as to why you’re weak, so I ask you please…tell me now.”

“It is true.” Axeon moaned telepathically, laying before her, “I have felt fatigued of late, perhaps it was wise that you did not summon me this night, however, I would have appreciated the sincerity of being informed of the events. I am still the true magic that holds this Isle together and if I am not alerted of what takes place upon its shores, I cannot promise that will be able to aid you in its defenses against the outside threats.” he slowly blinked.

“I know, and I’m sorry. Truly, I am but, it happened way too fast.” I recalled, “Not even Azir knew what to do. Besides, not that I’ll ever replace you, because I would never do such a thing, but Abraxas had handled things perfectly. And even though he might have gotten just a little carried away, he was amazing. After all, someday when you’re no longer here, he will be the island’s new magic and protector, even you can’t and haven’t denied that.”

“No, I cannot. You are fortunate to have such company, but I must ask you to never leave me unaware of what takes place further. It was my sworn duty to protect it and I will until I am needed more. “

“I understand, and again Axeon, I’m sorry.” I apologized, “You have to know that I’m not replacing you with Abraxas, because that would, and could, ever happen. After all, you’re one of the biggest treasures here that I’m fortunate enough to protect, not that I can do much.” I shrugged.

“You are more capable than you realized, young one.” Axeon seemed content with her words, knowing she meant every sincere word and apology, “And I sense your sincerity.” he bowed his head, “And I am pleased to see that you are unharmed, but now that I am aware of the events, I ask that you leave.” he craned his neck upward, continuing to look down upon her petite form, “I must thin about the actions I have seen that will not only shape my future, but that of the islands’ as well.” he blinked, “Go now child, be with your comrades and your mate.” he lowered his head, gently nudging her backwards, then as he turned, his heavy footsteps seemed to take much effort before laying down, wrapping his wings and tail around his body, hiding himself among the cluster of boulders, blending perfectly.

Respecting the great dragon, I nodded then backed away but just as I approached the bottom step of the rocky stairs leading upward, I had to glance back once more, hoping Axeon’s weakness didn’t mean he was deciding to leave everything behind unprotected.