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

Pacing the rooftop, Azir placed a dome above their location, giving Axeon a rest fro utilizing his cloaking ability. Sensing enough magic was put in place, Azir joined Yzavela near the ledge of the building, overlooking the Great City. Aside from the shrieking shouts from the sky, and booming gunfire and explosions on the ground, his and her silence was deafening.

“What a lovely night for a midnight ride.” a voice muttered softly.

Cautiously, Azir and I turned, seeing Molock leaning against one of the buildings’ generators, with his arms folded.

Removing his sword, Azir stepped in front of her, protecting her.

“You.” the Jinn groaned, gripping the hilt of his sword tightly.

“Me.” Molock mocked smugly, stepping forward, “And despite what you think of me diapers, I too have duties to perform. For example, this Necromancer.” he glanced out toward the city, “He’s conjured far too many of Lucifer’s legions and he’s growing concerned as to how, and why.” he turned to the Jinn and half-breed, “Hello again, Demoness.” he grinned at Yzavela.

“What are you doing here?” I wondered.

“I just told you.” the Sumerian mumbled, “Lucifer is becoming very agitated for this Necromancer is resourceful, finding ways around the barriers and cages that have been put in place. I’ve given up trying to stop him, convincing Lucifer to do the same for Drakuul’s days are running out and he’ll be ours soon.” he announced truthfully, “With power hungry fools, there’s always a moment when it all comes back around and bites them hard in the a** and no one, no matter what magic they possess, can change their fate.”

“Why are you here?!” Azir questioned, not trusting the trickster.

“Weren’t you listening?!” Molock placed his right hand up to his right hear.

Chuckling softly, I couldn’t help but admire his sarcasm. Clearing my throat, looking at Azir, I glanced away shyly.

Molock grinned, then turned, admiring Axeon’s beauty.

“My-my, can’t say I have ever seen a dragon up close during my six thousand years. You are beautiful.” the Sumerian sensed the dragon’s ancient magic that was a millennia older than himself.

“And you are ancient.” Axeon replied, “I cannot say that I ever met your kin before.” his eyes scanned the DemonJinn’s statuesque and godly form.

“Kin?” Molock tilted his head.

“You are Sumerian, are you not?” the great dragon raised his head.

“I am, and you…” the DemonJinn pointed at the beast standing tall above him, “are from the stars.” he dramatically waved his hands up toward the sky.

Axeon groaned, releasing a low growl that vibrated deeply in the back of his throat.

Respecting the dragon’s boundaries, Molock backed away, turning to Azir and Yzavela.

“Molock, look…” I muttered softly, “we’re not in the mood for you and your tricks. We’re taking a bid chance enough as it is, so we can’t and won’t worry about what your intentions might be, all right?”

“Ouch.” the Sumerian DemonJinn held both of his hands against his chest, as if her words phased him, “No need to be snappy, but I do understand and I will go, but do me a favor?” he looked into her eyes.

“At what cost?” I folded my arms.

“Yzavela, don’t.” Azir looked at her.

“Ha-ha.” Molock smiled, “Smart girl, but no cost.”

“All right, then what?” I wondered.

“Be careful, please.” the Sumerian approached, “You don’t belong in this place, you left it behind you so please don’t linger any longer than you need to. This is no longer a place for someone like you.” he bowed his head toward her.

“Thank you for your words, truly.” I appreciated.

“You said what you needed, she heard what you wanted to say.” Azir declared, standing in front of her once more, “You are not needed, or wanted here any further.”

“Didn’t I tell you once more before that you cannot keep me away?” Molock leered at the Nubian, “If I were you, quit the go trip, it’s not suitable for a Jinn such as yourself.” he mocked the Jinn’s pride, “I’ll leave, but not because of you.” he backed away, then once more, the tall god bowed toward Yzavela. Offering her a grin, he then vanished.

“So…that happened.” I mumbled.

Cursing in his African tongue, Azir glanced down at her, then turned, approaching Axeon speaking to the great dragon about what he knew about the Sumerians, or more specifically, Molock.

Shaking my head, I turned, glancing back toward the city, watching as the Harpies and Shadowed Ones shrieked loudly. Rubbing, then folding my arms, I worried about Abraxas greatly because where was he? He was gone too long. Filling with fear that touched every core, I closed my eyes feeling a breeze dance through the air, when suddenly my eyes jerked open, feeling a hand place itself softly on my shoulder. Thinking it might have been Azir, I turned, then frowned, having my gaze crane upward.

“I thought you left?” I pondered as Molock removed his hand.

“I did, I’m just a duplicate.” he smiled.

“A duplicate?” I grew confused, “I don’t think I want to know.”

“There are some Demons and Jinn that can duplicate themselves in more than one self. It comes in handy at times such as this, and more importantly like times such as this. Or when I have to be in more than once place a time, which I don’t have much of.”

“Then why are you here?” I glanced back at Azir, noting that he had not caught onto Molock’s duplicate.

“I just wanted to make sure that you’re all right, considering all of the circumstances.” Molock mumbled softly, “Preparing for war isn’t an easy thing to accept, much less expect.”

“Mm.” I groaned, nodding slowly, then turned to Axeon, watching as he fluttered his wings nervously, “What’s wrong, Azir what’s wrong?” I worried, rushing toward the Jinn and dragon.

Molock grinned, then vanished.

“I don’t know.” Azir worried, watching as Axeon stood.

“Half-breed…” Axeon glanced down at the half-breed.

“Yes?” I wondered, then in that moment, I heard a loud roar entering my mind. Covering my ears, falling to my knees, I closed my eyes as the roars continued.

“Yzavela?” Azir worried, kneeling alongside her.

Keeping my eyes squinted closed tightly, I hunched knowing it was a Telepathic connection trying to make its way into my mind but it felt different, it was stronger and louder than anything that I had ever experienced before.

“What’s wrong?’ Azir grew concerned.

“It’s Abraxas, but…there’s something else out there, something older and it’s…” I exaggerated in a muffled huff, trying to sort it all out, “I can’t…” I shook my head in protest, “it’s too much, it’s too much.”

Reaching out his hands, placing them over her small hands, Azir had softly muttered a chant, creating a block from any or all telepathic connections. Gently placing his hands on her shoulders, he watched as she raised her gaze, looking at him.

“Wh-what did you do?” I rasped, hearing nothing but my very own thoughts.

“Silenced your mind, while putting a block from the outside.” Azir muttered softly as he stood, helping her from the ground, “Are you all right?”

“I don’t know.” I groaned, feeling a horrible headache, “I have never felt anything like that in my life, and it hasn’t been a long one.” then I turned, hearing Harpies screech and shriek as they approached our location. Backing away behind Azir, he and I, as well as Axeon, had all observed as a single flying menace landed before us, scanning each of us with its red eyes. It stood tall, hanging its wings hanging limply down by its side. As it shifted in place, its large feet clanked its talons while it nudged its nose in our direction, catching our scents before it set its gaze upon me, “A-Abraxas?” I stuttered, gripping the hilt of my sword tightly, as did Azir.

“Mother?” the creatures answered verbally.

Sighing in relief, both Azir and Yzavela removed their hands from the hilts of their swords.

Veering around Azir, I approached the creature that lowered its head, and although unsettling, I knew my Abraxas was in there somewhere. I reached out trembling hands, stroking his head between his pointed ears, then pulled my hands away because the texture of his leathery skin was revolting. Worse than a snakes and I love snakes.

“Um, could you…return to your natural form, please?” I pestered.

“Apologies.” the Zyphyn bowed his head. Watching as his mother’s petite frame backed away, standing near the Jinn and great dragon, he slouched his shoulders, wrapping his wings around his body seeming to shrink smaller and smaller. His features morphed into those of his natural dragon characteristics and wings. However, during his shift, it was unfortunate that there was a momentary burst of red light as he finished his transformation from an 8 foot tall Harpy, to his smaller dragon form that hovered in place before landing into Yzavela’s arms. Snuggling against her chin, he purred and apologized for startling her.

“It’s all right, it just caught us off guard.” I looked into his large eyes, “That’s all.” I grinned, stroking his soft scales, “Now, was the chest delivered specifically to the Necromancer?”

“Yes, but that is not all I have done.” Abraxas answered verbally.

“While you are quite fascinating to say the least, what do you mean?” Azir questioned urgently, “What else have you seen, or done?”

“We return to the island, I will explain. But right now, Mother, there is something evil here, very dark and ancient with magic that I have never known.” Abraxas squawked quietly, twitching his wings, “And it stronger than Axeon.” he veered toward the great dragon that stood tall above them.

“The Zyphyn is correct, we must leave. Now.” Axeon urged, “Come, we must go quickly.” he laid down, allowing the Jinn and half-breed to climb upon his back once more, situating between his soft spikes. Feeling they were in place, he flapped his wings, pushing himself high into the air, having regained his strength, the flight was effortless. As he flew higher above the rooftops away from the swarming Harpies or Shadowed Ones, he couldn’t avoid their senses, “They have sensed us.” he glanced at the riders on his back, “If I cannot evade them, we will not escape unharmed.”

Abraxas, tucked in his mother’s jacket, peeked his head out, releasing a deafening screech that deterred the Harpies and Shadowed Ones long enough for them to escape the area; the swarming menaces lost their senses and flew erratically from the screech that was more as if it were a blast wave of energy that sent them flying in the opposite direction.

“Good boy.” I praised, feeling his move around inside my jacket. As I glanced around us, I sighed in relief for we were out of reach from their senses. Removing a pair of small binoculars from my pocket, I studied the streets below as Axeon slightly turned his body, catching glimpses of the Trolls, Zarooks, and half-breed creatures of man and Lycynian alike roaming through, overturning vehicles and catching a few scattering city folk that attempted fighting back, or didn’t make it inside for curfew, “God…” I gasped fearfully, “I can’t believe this, just when I thought I left this all behind, here I am.” I lowered the binoculars.

Azir said nothing, hearing her soft complaint, as his golden eyes had scanned the streets as well. The sounds of war and clashing weapons, vicious shouts and magic used, echoed through his mind as many of memories replayed in his mind; images of the first encounters with the creatures that had been conjured below.

Raising the binoculars once more, I took account of the creatures.

The Zarooks were massive lizard-like beasts walking on hind feet, a long tail with a rattlesnake-like tip, muscular shorter arms and thick necks that blended into their small shoulders. Green scales skin had covered their entire body looked darker than it should have been, but I remembered the first time I saw one, a moment I wished I could’ve forgotten, where it released its acidic saliva upon a victim and within seconds, it melted down to the bones leaving behind a heap of flesh and bloodied clothes. They thrashed their tails with rage when ready to strike, creating an unsettling rattle like, as I mentioned before, that of a rattlesnake. Having no need for weapons, their hands were their weapons in themselves with long sharp talons that were sharper than any mortal made blade. If their victim is scratched, their poison does infect ones mind, causing hallucinations before attacking arteries and nerves. What their weaknesses were, I didn’t know, I never got the chance to get close enough to find out, but they’re bullet proof that much I know.

The Trolls stomped and growled, moaning as they swung their large clubs and maces, crushing or overturning vehicles out of their way of passing. Their tough hides were dull and thick and covered in warts and bumps, making them, like the Zarooks, difficult to pierce. Like the Harpies, they had no organs to define their gender so clothing to hide it wasn’t necessary. They had powerful jaws that could tear a person in half, or devour them whole, chomping on the bones. Their hard, bulbous heads contoured their wide faces and small eyes, rounds noses and small ears. They stench they left behind was sour, like rotten garbage so if or when you came across one, or a group, you would know what you’re up against. And in place of some of their hands, were spiked clubs maces, balls that’re attached to long chains or hooks.

Among the Trolls and Zarooks, aside from the Shadowed Ones and Harpies, were mortals and Shayds driving their tanks with very bright searchlights bolted on their hoods, shining between allies, under cars or behind then, even into abandoned homes through their shattered windows. Even the Nightwalkers dressed in uniforms, masks and the helmets that prevented their skin from burning in the daylight, found victims that hadn’t made it inside for curfew. Even children became a victim for the bloodthirsty supernaturals. It was no wonder why their race, and that of Wraiths, had negative reputations.

Their numbers were too fast to count individually, but Azir took an estimate that there must have been at least 3,000 or more, and hoped Drakuul, hadn’t regained his full magical strengths to conjure others far more dangerous and ruthless. Neither he, nor Yzavela had words to say on the matter, for what else could be mentioned or muttered?

Making their way back to the Isle, Axeon circled once or twice above the city, avoiding the chance of being followed.

Passing above the park near our home, I glanced over his shoulder. I saw not traces of the militia or creatures, so biting my lip, knowing I was about to do the dumbest thing imaginable, I had to do it cause I would never have another chance.

“Down there, fly down there!” I instructed, “Land in the park.”

“We don’t have time for this!” Azir argued.

“Axeon, please…” I begged, “it’s important to me, please!”

Releasing a low moan, the great dragon listened to the Jinn’s huffs. Turning his massive bulk in a swift downward maneuver, he hovered before making a rough landing, casting a strong wing from his wings that scattered papers and debris that created a disturbance in the area that had been left as it was.

Quickly sliding down the soft scales of his neck, with Abraxas tucked in my jacket, my feet then landed awkwardly on the ground.

“Yzavela!” Azir barked telepathically as he too, slid off the dragon’s neck, chasing after her, “Yzavela, we cannot do this!” he pleaded, but she ignored him.

Cautiously making my through the rubble scattered streets, carefully I hid behind trucks and vans, or misplace dumpsters until I finally approached the building where my old house still stood in its grand entirety, but burned and trashed. A rush of sadness hit me as I felt a deep frown creep across my face. Continuing forward, passing by and crouching down behind over turned vehicles, I made sure I stayed off the streets then ascended the steps leading to the front door that still hung on its hinges. Biting my lip quietly pushing it open, it broke as I barely touched it, falling to the ground. Before I could reach out and grab hold of it, I used my Telekinesis, holding the door above the ground, before it landed on the rubble covered floor, preventing a loud echoing crash. Sighing, before I could move my hands guiding the door aside, over my shoulder along the wall behind me, was a tall shadow growing closer. Feeling Abraxas squirming around inside my jacket, I no longer cared about the door as I quickly reached for the hilt of my sword that hung across my back. Releasing my hold upon it, I watched as it hovered before slowly gliding across the room to lean against the wall. Moaning, I swiftly turned with sword in hand, ready to defend myself but sighed in relief as Azir’s elegant stature stood in the door way with the light outside cast behind him creating a striking entrance.

Extending his left hand in the sign-language letter for U outward, he watched as she lowered her sword, sighing in relief. Once the door was securely in place, he lowered his hand, adjusting the sleeves of his tunic.

“You scared me, but thank you.” I nodded, sheathing my sword.

“You are welcome, but we shouldn’t be here.” Azir argued, “You and I should get back to the island before we are detected.

“Azir…” I huffed, “I know this is a risk, and I’m sorry, but I have to.” I looked around, “I have to see this place, just one more time because I won’t be coming back here.” I backed away, carefully and slowly, placing my footing to avoid shattered glass, but that was impossible for it lay scattered everywhere I stepped. Frowning, kicking it aside to make a clear path through the first level, our family photos that had once hung on the walls, lay shattered on the ground in their old, and antique frames.

Azir remained by the door, but reached down, studying a photo that captured a pleasant moment between Yzavela and Lady D. removing the photo from its frame, he gathered others he thought she might want. Raising his gaze toward the kitchen, he listened as she shuffled around before making her way up the stairs.

Standing upon the landing, my knees bumped into the trunk that my mom had no choice but to leave behind, filled with all of her other books and magical trinkets or supplies. Carefully pushing it aside, I shuffled around our rooms, finding other rare items we didn’t have a chance to gather. Searching for a large bag, I found my leather satchel that my mom had purchased for me in the closest. Thankfully it had no suffered damage like other things in the wardrobe. Shoving some jewelry, clothing and a few of Zanzabarr’s favorite toys into the large satchel, I didn’t care if they bunched together in a messy heap. As I swung the strap across my chest, I stood in the hall glancing into the bedrooms, feeling tears stinging my eyes. Wiping them away, I then pushed the distractions aside, carefully venturing downstairs with the trunk and satchel.

Standing in the living room among their ruined, and burned but once lovely furniture, Azir knew the items she gathered weren’t pointless, but held deep sentimental value for her and her mother. Groaning, he stomped across the room, approaching one of the windows with its glass panels lying on the floor from a blast erupted from outside. His golden eyes scanned the streets, both left and right, when suddenly he glanced over his shoulder, sensing a figure approaching him. Swiftly removing his Scimitar sword, he twirled around, flowing his tunic like a woman’s skirt, placing the blade against the young woman’s throat and neck, penetrating through the barrier she attempted to create. The blade from his Scimitar shattered her magic from a single touch.

“By the Elders…never sneak up on a Jinn!” he warned, studying her as she stood with her hands held up in surrender, “Are you done?” he sheathed his sword.

“Yes, after you.” I gestured toward the door, “And how did you…or your sword shatter my barrier?” I wondered, carrying the trunk by its handle.

“Jinn metal absorbs magic of all variations, and levels.” Azir rasped, “The streets are clear, so let’s be swift while we have a chance.” he turned to her, then glanced down at her hand carrying the large trunk, “You are not bringing that back.”

“Yes I am!” I argued, shuffling its awkward weight.

Azir groaned, seeing her struggling to keep her balance.

“Give it to me.” he held out his hand, reaching for it quickly. As he led her out of the building and just as they stepped outside, they both heard voices shouting from adjacent buildings, “What is that?” he looked around.

“Psst, over here!” a man whistled, “You two…”

Looking around, both Azir and Yzavela could see faces carefully and cautiously peeking through the windows.

“We have shelter here, over here!” a woman hissed, beckoning the tall black man and young woman forward.

Sharing disgruntled frowns, Azir and I ignored their voices as we ran across the street, hiding behind the dumpsters when there it was, just what we didn’t need, TROUBLE with a capital T.

Axeon lay cloaked, growing nervous. Twitching his wings and slowly flicking his log tail, he raised his head toward the sky, watching as a large airship soared above with its sails breaking against the wind and searchlights searching the grounds. Lowering his gaze, he watched as tanks and trucks, scouted the streets and park, alleys, or inside all of the broken down vehicles. Groaning deeply, digging his talons in the grass, he turned toward the line of tall buildings, hoping to see signs of the Jinn and half-breed.

Azir and Yzavela remained hidden behind the dumpsters stuck right in the middle of the streets near a cluster of burnt cars that were also out of place. Leaning against its body avoiding the act of pressing our backs against it, I snapped telepathically, unintentionally leering at the Jinn next to me.

“The streets are clear, huh?” I waited for an answer, receiving only a string of African slurs in complaint, “Yeah, you too.” I frowned then leaned against the dumpster, taking steady breaths.

Peeking around the corner, Azir watched as a unit of mortals, Shayds and Nightwalkers, accompanied by Trolls and Zarooks lingered too long for comfort. Glaring at her, he knew she felt guilty.

“You don’t have to say it, I know.” her words entered his mind.

“Allow me, Mother.” Abraxas squirmed inside her jacket.

“No, you’ve done enough.” I instructed firmly, placing my hands up to the front of my jacket, feeling him moving around inside.

The unit approached closer, when the Nightwalkers released a set of deep, low hisses as they sensed something behind the obstruction. As they glanced at the Shayds, even they sensed powerful magic nearby.

“Halt, over there!” one of the Shayds shouted, pointing toward the dumpster, “I think we have something over there!” he jumped off the back of one of the trucks with several other Shayds, mortals and the Nightwalkers.

Holding my breath, I could shadows of figures growing closer on my right, and freezing in place, I stared at the street ahead of me before I closed my eyes.

“Don’t…move.” Azir instructed her telepathically. Watching her, he received a brief nod in reply, before he too, closed his eyes, muttering another cloaking chant, and just as he finished the last string of the words, he opened his eyes, watching as the figures jumped out from behind the dumpster, standing above them both.

One of the Nightwalkers removed their mask and helmet, leaning in. Squinting its red eyes, she sniffed the air sensing something was there. Kneeling in front of the blank space, she scanned the air then took in another deep breath, releasing low hisses and groans.

Holding my gloved hands over my mouth, trying to contain terrified shrieks, this was the first time I had ever seen a Nightwalker up close. Staring into her red eyes that were encircled with black veins that had disappeared up and around her balding head, when she frowned her bulged brows distorted her features. Instead of possessing the classic set of fangs like a normal Wraith with a single set of canine fangs, oh no, this creature had sharp fangs that ran straight across her bulging gum line. Her pale skin was almost gray in color, as if they were the walking dead, and in a sense, they were. Her gloved hands and turtle-necked uniform was proof of that. Trying not to press my back close against the metal panel behind me, I closed my eyes as the creature leaned in closer.

Sticking out her forked tongue, wanting to lick the air tasting what it was that attracted her attention, she suddenly turned glancing over her shoulder, hearing rustling around in the buildings behind her. As her red eyes focused along the ground, she turned, beginning to sniff close to the ground before scampering toward the building, hearing a chorus of voices arguing in blunt whispers. Hissing aggressively, she and other Nightwalkers sped through the doors, accompanied by the mortals and Shayds in their unit.

“What did they find?” one of the mortal soldiers shouted, shining a searchlight toward the building, highlighting the entire area.

“The Nightwalkers found somethin’ in the buildings!” a voice spoke over the radio, followed b y static and shrieking screams.

Flinching in place, hearing the agonizing and fearful screams, I slowly opened my eyes, looking at the building ahead of us, then glancing at Azir, I shook my head as if there was nothing we could for the men, women and possibly children that offered us sanctuary at the risk of their own lives.

“We need to leave…now.” Azir instructed, “But we need to find yet another way around this, if we move now, they’ll know something is here for sure.” he referred to the block of blanks and Trolls that were a few feet behind the dumpsters.

“You lead, I’ll follow.” I urged, “I’m done here…”

Nodding affirmatively, reaching out his left hand that tightly gripped hers, he kept their presence cloaked as they quietly maneuvered down and around the tanks nearby. Even though our feet were careful in their placement, they occasionally crushed glass and rocks, beginning to attract the attention of the Trolls, as did the sound of the trunk that Azir accidentally thumped against an overturned car. Freezing in place, both Azir and I turned toward the tanks, watching as the large Trolls began stomping toward our location, but then became just a bit distracted as cast, chasing rats, scampered across their feet or hid behind and under rubble. Crouching behind one of the massive trees that was ripped from its roots, I could feel its pain placing my hands upon its thick trunk. Glancing across the park that both Azir and I had veered off from, we could see Axeon standing nervous as his tail flicked and wings twitched.

“We’re going to do this quickly, but I might have to reveal myself.” Azir turned to Yzavela alongside him.

In that moment, making jokes was the last thing on my mind.

“Meaning what?” I questioned, watching the soldiers and Trolls.

“I can’t cloak my magic and teleport upon Axeon’s back, that is one thing that I cannot do.” he complained, crouching down out of sight from the high beam flashlights.

“Portals, how about a portal?” I wondered.

“I can, but it will still be noticed.” the Jinn protested, “Unfortunately, Jinn don’t create portals like Demons or Shayds, they’re bigger.”

“Great, so we’re f*cked either way if we don’t get out of here!” I spat the words telepathically.

“Do you trust me?” Azir looked into her wide, dark eyes.

“Yes.” I nodded.

“Good.” he took her hand once more, then gripping tightly onto the trunk handle, he reached out to Axeon’s mind, “We are coming but you must be ready for flight as soon as we appear upon your back.”

“Do it now, before we are detected.” the great dragon’s voice replied.

“Ready?” Azir looked at her once more.

“Yes.” I agreed.

Nodding, he closed his eyes, then as warned, his Jinn’s pillar of light attracted the soldiers, but appearing upon Axeon’s back, the dragon pushed himself high into the air.

The soldiers, both mortals and Shayds had bombarded the area; their voices could be heard shouting as they huddled around near the trees and as they turned, another pillar appeared in the nearby park, and as they pointed their flashlights and rifles in that direction, they began scampering across the streets through the maze of rubble and debris. Just as they stormed through the gate surrounding the park, the men watched as what looked like a whirlwind of something being pushed off the ground. Scanning the sky, seeing nothing visible, they glanced at one another the contacted the men operating the tanks and trucks, inquiring if their radars detected anything out of the ordinary. It was the Shayds however, that sensed the lingering residue of magic in the air, feeling it tickle their spines for it was older than anything they had ever sensed before.

“Anything?” a voice spoke over the radios.

“No Sir, nothing.” one of the Shayds complained, “Probably some of the Demons managing to escape.” he turned with disappointment, “How ’bout there, anything?”

“Nothing, just squatters in the abandoned buildings.” the voice spat, “They’ve been dealt with, let’s get going. We need to turn in all of our reports by morning.”

Appearing in a darkened room, lit only with candles as a source for light, Molock stood invisible in the shadows, watching the Immortal Necromancer continuing his attempts to conjure more Demons and beasts, hoping to add them to his current legions. Waving his hands around the room, a faint shimmer lined the walls and floor, blocking the man’s summoning magic. Tilting his head, leaning against the wall, he watched and listened as the Necromancer slurred the words in various tones and languages but each time the spell craft failed.

“What is this?!” Drakuul mumbled, and no sooner did he ask, a presence made itself known; candles around the room died, before erupting into high flames that caused the Immortal to back away in shuffling steps, watching as the thick shadows creeping on the walls and behind the altar formed into a solid mass, “What are you?” he knelt on his knees, “Tell me, Demon…” he demanded.

Gazing upon the Necromancer kneeling and pleading for answers, the Sumerian DemonJinn appeared to the man, but not in his natural form. His 6’4 frame had grown tall to 12 feet, with elegant ram-like horns that twisted backwards, dark charred skin with veins of fire in a demonic pattern that highlights his tattoos. His black hair receded and parted between his horns, hanging against his back in a long, but ancient warrior braid. That was the ONLY time other than war, that the Sumerian wold braid his hair. His Jinn tattoos glowed among the veins, complimenting his demonic form with a powerful physique. As he stood tall above the Necromancer, leering down at him with his red demonic eyes that covered the entire eye, he listened to the man’s pleas and orders. Growing tired of the games, his deep voice loudly, but powerfully proclaimed in a guttural tone.

“You f*cking mortals, and your piddly magic.” he scoffed, eerily letting out a few low TSKS, “You think that you, Drakuul Lexus, can summon my Master’s legions without a price?” he walked around the man the kept his gaze on the ground, for he feared taking in his demonic form.

“Who are you, Demon?!” Drakuul demanded, “Tell me…”

“I will tell you nothing.” Molock leaned in, rasping the words in the man’s ear, “You are pathetic, a waste of existence and think that you are in control of the force at your disposal when you are wrong, you are not and your end is near Drakuul, and Death will be there when it is time to claim what you have sold.” he finished.

“I demand to know who you are, Demon!” Drakuul ignored the deep, threatening warning. Attempting to stand, looking upon the figure, he felt hands pushing him back onto his knees, but glancing at his shoulders, there were not physical hands upon him, only the sense and impression, “You are here, standing in my conjuring circle, does that not mean I have control over you?!” he grew arrogant, something the Demon fed off of.

“Am I now?” Molock mocked, “How do you not know that you are in my conjuring circle and not really in Hell?” he moaned, playing his riddles, “Hmm, Necromancer?”

“Th-that’s not possible, I-I’m not dead!” Drakuul argued.

“Are you not?” Molock laughed, walking around the Immortal. As he stood in front of him, looking down at the man, he stretched out his arms, “You are not playing by your rules, Necromancer…but by mine.”

“No…” Drakuul argued.

“Look for yourself, but do not say that I didn’t warn you.” Molock taunted, pointing toward the door behind the man; it swung open as he vanished.

Drakuul stood, glancing around the room, then turned with a sense of underlying fear as he approached the door, unsure of awaited him. Turning toward the altar, scampering for Lexa’s dagger, he focused his dark eyes upon the door once more. Cautiously peeking his head out into the hall, he felt as if her were sucked into another room that was more of a chamber to his eyes, but it didn’t dwell in the House of Parliament building. Looking around, there were monstrous and horrendous creatures emerging from the darkness around him, beasts of great deformity and ones that he recognized of souls that he had tortured and used to create his legions. Feeling their hands reaching out for him, grabbing hold of his clothes, he pulled away swiping the daggers through the air but his fight didn’t last long. When the ritual blade was thrown from his hand, he felt defenseless for his magic he had always relied on, failed and couldn’t be conjured. Suddenly, he moaned in complaint, being pulled to the ground, and torn apart and as he felt each strike and bite, tear or slash, he screamed loudly but he was aware of everything, only to feel it all over again. Just as the sense ended, he felt the creatures pulled off, and gasping to catch his breath, he awoke in his bedroom, sweating profusely. Jumping out of the bed, he turned wondering how and when he retreated to his room. As he glanced at his hands that shook violently, one held the dagger with a blade covered in a thick black goo. Dropping the weapon, glancing at himself, his clothes were torn and shredded.

“Wh-what is this?” he mumbled, then ran into the bathroom. Staring at his reflection, breathing heavily, he took an ornamental statue that stood nearby on the sink, shattering the mirror. Stumbling backwards, watching as the shards fell into the sink, he pressed his back against the wall. Knowing it wasn’t a dream, but a powerful premonition that fate had set for him, it wasn’t one he could escape from. Not matter the sacrifices and deals, or binding spells, he was f*cked. Combing his black stringy hair backwards, he retreated out of the bathroom and sat before the fireplace, staring into the flames, recalling most, if not all, of the horrific images and physical senses left behind.

Returning to the island in complete silence, sliding off Axeon’s back, both Azir and I shuffled our feet gaining our balance before the Jinn had turned to me, grabbing me by the shoulders, giving me a rough but affirmative shake.

“What were you thinking?! Your actions almost got us killed, do you realize that?!” he gave another shake.

“Azir, let go of me!” I warned bluntly.

“Not until you understand what your reckless almost cost us.”

“I know!” I shouted, igniting my Aura that burned his hands another time, “God damn it Azir, I know that!” I huffed, standing fiercely in a bright reddish hue that startled Axeon, who backed away, watching the scene taking place the Jinn and I, “What do you want me to say?! That I was stupid and reckless?! Yes and yes, I was but that was my home Azir, the home that my mother and I shared so, if there was a chance that I could save some of those memories, I took it and I am not sorry!” I clenched my fists, growing angry, “And I’m sure that if you were in the same position, you would have done the same if that was your home that you shard with Natash so don’t you dare, Jinn or not, stand there and judge me!” I frowned, then turned, releasing the built of rage and energy that crawled and burned beneath my skin. As it sizzled against one of the nearby boulders, I pushed past Azir and singed his left sleeve. Awkwardly pulling the trunk behind me along the rocky ground, I ventured toward the narrow stairs hidden.

“Where are you going?!” Azir turned, calling out after her.

“Somewhere I feel safe!” I shouted, adjusting the backpack that hung against my back.

Azir groaned, letting out a deep sigh, turning away.

“That girl.” he swore, then glanced down at his hands that were once more, blistered from her unnatural, supernatural Aura that couldn’t be explained.

“She is young, she will learn but has learned much more than you can realize.” Axeon approached, lowering his head before the Jinn, “Your hands, they are burned.” he studied the Jinn’s attempts to hide them away.

“They’re fine, nothing Natash can’t fix.” Azir groaned, slowly raising his gaze toward the great dragon, “It’s been a long night, you should rest.” he nodded, “We will speak more tomorrow.”

“Very well.” Axeon bowed then lifted his head, turning away.

After exiting Axeon’s cavern, making my way through the bookshelf, I quickly stormed out of the study and manor, with everything still replaying repeatedly in my mind. Huffing deeply, walking along the path toward my mortal dwelling, I paused.

“Mother, what is wrong?” Abraxas walked alongside her in a copy of Zanzabarr’s wolf form.

“Nothing and everything.” I knelt down, “It’s been a long night, I’d like for you to return to my room and make sure Zanzabarr is well.” I stroked the fur along his jaw and neck, “No arguments, please.” I kissed his morphed snout, “Go…” I stood, pointing toward the tall dwelling in the distance.

“And where will you be?”

“Like I told Azir, somewhere I feel safe. With Anthony, now go…”

Releasing a brief bark, Abraxas turned, running toward the dwelling. As he reached the front door, he teleported, disappearing out of sight.

Smiling, I turned, approaching the Lycynian dwelling that wasn’t, to my surprise, locked. Quietly climbing the stairs, avoiding clanking the trunk against the walls, arriving on the third floor, I made my way down the hall toward the end of the hall. Standing outside, my hands fluffed my hair and adjusted my jacket but before I could even knock, the door swung open.

“Hi.” I greeted quietly.

“Hi.” Anthony smiled, “I was getting worried.” he pulled her close.

“I know, I’m sorry.” I whispered, holding onto him tightly.

Glancing over her shoulder, seeing the trunk in the hall, Anthony wondered.

“Um, not that I’m complaining…” he gently pulled away, looking down at her, “but are you moving in?”

Knowing he referred to the trunk, I grinned, looking up at him.

“No, it’s just uh…” I sighed, shaking my head, “stuff from the city.”

“The city?” Anthony questioned, then realized, “Aye, tell me that you didn’t do what I think you did?!” he stepped aside, allowing her to pass, entering his room.

“Yes, I did exactly what you think I did.” I argued, turning to him.

Pulling the trunk into his room closing the door, Anthony grew a bit angry by her recklessness.

“You could have been killed, or worse. None of us would have ever known what happened, and all for what?” he gestured at the trunk, “A few trinkets that you couldn’t leave behind?”

“I already heard this from Azir, please I don’t need to hear it from the one person that I wanted nothing more than anything to come to.” I steamed aggressively, “If you don’t want me here, I’ll go.” and just as I stepped around him, I heard his soft voice pleading after me.

“Little Yza, please…don’t. I didn’t mean it like that.” he apologized, “It’s just…knowing that I wasn’t there to protect you, was killing me and if I knew that you had been captured, surely you know that I and I’m sure many of your friends would have stormed into the city for you.” he approached, wanting to hold her but felt the intense heat of the steam, “Please, promise me that you will never do anything like that again, not without me there.” he looked at her with a pleading expression that softened her heart.

Scanning his face, watching as the worried frown faded, and replaced with affection in his dark eyes, I smiled sighing softly, extinguishing the steam as easily as I controlled my breathing. Taking steps toward him, placing my hands on his chest, I leaned in close, holding him. I felt his hands wrap around me, and in that moment, the unsettling and horrific events of the night faded away. Listening to his steady heart and breathing, I closed my eyes.

“Now that you’re home, why don’t I run you a bath to help you relax, hmm?” Anthony offered.

“At this hour?” I wondered, gently pulling away to look up at him.

“Why not?” he grinned, placing his hands on her waist, “You need it, and there is no crime or set time as to when a person can bathe, no?”

“As long as you join me.” I suggested, eyeing him up and down for he looked so tantalizing dressed in his white shirt tucked in his fitted leather pants that hugged his physique, “Please say yes?” I bit my lip with an intense attraction.

“Of course.” he growled, then turned, leading her into the bathroom. After the tub was filled with hot water, and bubbles crawling along the surface, he and Yzavela shared the comfort of the bath’s waters. Leaning against the ledge, holding onto her, he questioned her about what she saw.

“It’s difficult to describe.” I moaned, closing my eyes, seeing it all so clearly as if they were in the room itself, “And horrifying.” I glanced over my shoulder, looking up at him, “I don’t think you’d believe it.”

“My darling little Yza…” he ran his hands along her shoulders in a slow, sensual caress, “you’re forgetting where we’re living, nothing I don’t think, would surprise me much anymore.” he grinned, then he wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Well…” I slowly turned to him, straddling him slowly, “if you saw these things, those monsters that we faced and dealt with, I think you would retract that statement.” I ran my hands down his chest, “And if it’s something you want to see, I can share the memories with you.” I sat closer to him, “Or do you have other things in mind?” I purred.

Grinning, he ran his hands down her bare, wet back, then settled on her hips. Closing his eyes, feeling her sensual touch as she caressed his chest and stomach, he growled then looked at her with his yellow eyes.

“Maybe later.” he pulled her close, the groaned deeply, feeling her.

Moaning passionately, feeling his arms wrap around my waist to hold me close, I steamed faintly, but not enough to burn his skin that was not just warm from the hot temperatures of the water, but from his paranormal nature.

Azir returned to his suite, where Natash lay sleeping in their bed. As he sat on the ledge, trying not to disturb her, he felt her hands caress up his back before her head peeked over his shoulder.

“Azir, my love…what happened?” she wondered softly.

“Apologies my love, I didn’t mean to wake you.” Azir glanced at her.

“What happened?” Natash urged, and as she reached for his hands, he pulled them away quickly, “Azir, what’s wrong?” she worried as she once more, reached for his hands, examining his blistered palms.

“A lot my love, a lot.” the Jinn husband, and King, fretted. Watching as Natash climbed out of bed, kneeling in front him, tending to his hands, he frowned then gazed toward the window, staring at the panels intensely, paying no attention to Natash’s healing methods.

It was a little after 10:00am when my phone rang loudly, hidden in my pocket of my jacket. Groaning in complaint, I turned over and leaned a little too far off the bed, falling out and onto the hard floor.

“Hijo de puta…” I grunted deeply, pulling the sheets with me. As I rolled over, reaching my hands toward my jacket, I skimmed through the pocket for the gadget and grabbing hold of it, I answered, rasping my words in a muffled tone, “Y-yeah, what?!”

“Yzavela?! Oh my god…” Lady D answered, “where are you?! I have been calling you all morning!” her voice sounded frantic with worry.

Putting the call on video, I scanned through my messages.

“I can see that.” I scrolled through all the missed calls, “but I’m fine, I just spent the night at…” I turned over on my back, keeping myself covered with the sheets, “nevermind. I’ll see you in a bit, there’s a lot I have to tell you.” I ended the call quickly, then shuffled to my feet, almost tripping over the gathered sheet around my ankles, “Oh boy.” I complained, sitting back on the bed. Leaning forward, resting my head in my hands, I felt a tickle down my spine, “I can feel your eyes watching me, you know?” I straightened my posture. Glancing over my shoulder, I observed Anthony standing in the doorway leading to his bathroom, “And your thoughts are pretty loud, and vivid.” I gave a faint grin.

“Mm.” he growled, brushing his teeth. As he turned, spitting into the sink, he rinsed his mouth then washed his hands. Emerging from the washroom, he approached dressed in a crisp black shirt that hadn’t yet been tucked into his fitted black jeans. Crawling into the bed, he leaned in behind her, kissing her neck while his hands followed the shape of her figure, even through the thick, bulky fabric of the sheets, “Good morning.” he rasped sensually in her ear, “Sleep well?”

“Too well.” I purred, closing my eyes, feeling his tender, passionate touch, “But now…” I turned to him, “I have to go.” I nudged my nose against his then leaned in, kissing him longingly.

“Not if you kiss me like that again, you won’t.” he teased her softly, “And looking like this…” hie dark eyes scanned her figure that was hidden beneath the sheet, “doesn’t help.”

“Well then, perhaps I should shower and dress.” I giggled, feeling his hands beginning to tickle me lightly before falling backwards against his pillows, feeling him crawl atop, “I really should…” I squeaked in between our long, heated kisses, “get going before my mom sends a rescue party.” I finished.

Groaning in complaint, leaning his head against her neck, he placed a few more kissed along her throat then rolled over, laying alongside her.

“Bad timing, as always.” he looked at her, watching as she rolled over, kneeling on her elbow looking at him.

“Always, I know.” I rested my head against his chest then climbed out of the bed, rushing toward the bathroom. Showering quickly, I emerged, dressing in fresh but older clothes from the satchel that I had stuffed with clothes from the Great City, “All right, let’s do this.” I muttered to myself, then turning toward the trunk, reaching for the handle, Anthony’s hand covered mine.

“Allow me.” he grinned, pulling it behind him.

“Always a gentleman.” I admired his charm. Following him out of his room, and down the hall, we ignored the curious residents that all stood outside their doors, watching us pass, “Good morning.” I gave a mocking wave, “And what you’re all thinking is none of your damn business.” I continued forward after Anthony.

“What was that?” Anthony questioned once they stepped outside.

“Mongrels thinking what mongrels think about. Humping.” I swiftly frowned, then chuckled, hearing Anthony’s soft laugh, “Oh baby, I’m sorry. That came out wrong, I’m sorry.”

“My darling, it’s all right.” he gently cupped her face, “It is what they think about, but I…” he winked, “am not a mongrel, I’m a pedigree.” he kissed her.

“Mm, yes…yes you are.” I giggled, then turned, hearing my mother’s voice shouting out my name across the estate.

“Saved by Ma-ma.” Anthony teased.

“Again, bad timing.” I whispered.

“Oh my god…” Lady D ran as fast as she could, struggling to place her cane on the gravel path for a steady balance, “Yzavela, oh my god…” she dropped her cane, pulling her daughter close, panting in her ear unintentionally.

Anthony glanced at his feet, then added softly.

“You are in Ma-ma’s hands now, so I will see you later.” he nodded.

“All right, I love you.” I smiled.

“And I you.” he winked, then turned, walking toward the gates where he received a message from Thomas, needing his assistance up at the shop once more.

“What was that about?” Lady D wondered, “That’s where you were?”

“Not the whole night, no.” I muttered, “I went to the Great City for most of it, remember?” I turned to the trunk, pulling it behind me.

“Right, about that.” Lady D groaned in complaint, “Start talking.”

“Can we get to your room to talk?” I urged, receiving a nod in reply, “Cool, but first I need to walk and feed Zanzabarr, I’m sure his pads are flooded and bowls are empty.”

“Of course.” Lady D agreed, “I think the whole dwelling can hear his whines and howls, I’m surprised he didn’t just break his way through the door.” she hinted, “Some of the residents on the floor did state that they heard loud thumps against the door.”

“Yeah.” I chuckled, “Come on…”

“And what’s that?” Lady D glanced at the trunk, “Oh my god, is that what I think it is?”

“Mommy?!” I argued.

“Right, right…sorry, no questions.” she held her hands in surrender. Once returning to her room, she waited anxiously, beginning to shift through the trunk, gasping in shock that all of her items and books had managed to escape the damage.

Running upstairs, quickly unlocking the door, I could heard Abraxas and Zanzabarr roaring and whining. Swinging it open, kneeling down in front of them, I greeted and kissed them quickly then urged them away from the door, closing it behind me. Rushing toward the large bathroom, turning on the light, I observed the piddle pads that were soaked and soiled but managed to absorb the messes. Turning to the large wolf that stood in the doorway, he held his head low and tail between his legs as if ashamed.

“It’s all right, I’m not mad. Come here…” I held our my arms. As he cuddled close, trying to lick my face, I giggled then pushed him back for he almost stepped his messed, “Whoa, okay easy big boy…let me change them, go on…fetch, go fetch!” I snapped toward the door. I watched as the wolf ran out of the bathroom, then listened to loud squeaks as he aggressively attacked one of his favorite toys. Growing an affectionate grin, I shook my head then cleaned up the messes. As I threw the pads away, replacing them with fresh, I stood then turned to the sink, immediately washing my hands, “All right…” I loudly announced, peeking my head into the suite, “ready?” I dried off my hands, tossing the towel into the laundry hamper near the sink, “All right, come on…” I clapped, then fetching Zanzabarr’s harness and leash, with Abraxas perched upon my shoulder, I swiftly descended the stairs, making my way across the lounge and outside where both Zanzabarr and Abraxas expressed their freedom, running and flying around the estate freely, releasing their built up energy, “Abraxas?” I reached out telepathically, watching as the dragon soared and flipped through the air playfully above the wolf, “keep an eye on him, please?”

“Yes, Mother.” the Zyphyn answered.

“Thank you.” I appreciated. Turning toward the dwelling, leaving the front door open for their access, I ventured back across the large lounge toward my mom’s room; her door yet again, was left unlocked, “What did I tell you about leaving this unlocked?” I worried.

“Habit.” Lady D shrugged as she skimmed through the trunk, “I just can’t believe you found all of this, I thought it was lost.” she placed her hands inside, continuing to remove all of her books, herbs, jars and bottles of oils that she mixed together herself, “Now…tell me.” she focused on her daughter who walked over, sitting in one of the chairs near the patio, “And no sugar coating things.”

Sighing regrettably, I relayed everything that took place, in just about every detail that I could remember, even down to how things smelled. When telling her about the Shayds and Nightwalkers, I listened to her faint gasps of shock while she gripped onto one of her pillows in anticipation of the next tale. Gesturing at the leather satchel, I relayed that I also packed several photos, rare jewelry pieces and more books, one of a kind candles, blouses, cloaks and leather pieces.

“Azir helped gather the photos and albums.” I gestured at them lying on her bed alongside many other things that she removed from inside the trunk, “I couldn’t believe what was left, or wasn’t left. Everything was destroyed…” I fretted, “you wouldn’t have believed that at one time, that was our home. It was…” I felt tears stinging my eyes.

Lady D pushed herself off the bed, shuffling toward her daughter. As she pulled the other chair closer, she leaned in, hugging her quickly.

“It’s all right, sweetheart…” Lady D comforted, “it’s all right, you’re home now, truly home where you belong, and even thought they are material things, they matter but just don’t ever do that again.”

“That’s what Anthony said when I told him.” I mumbled.

“Smart man.” Lady D pulled away.

“Well, believe me…I’m not doing that again, not after seeing one of the Nightwalkers up closer, ugh…” I shivered from the memory, “if you could see them with your own eyes.”

“That ugly?” Lady D wondered.

“F*cking ugly.” I moaned, then reaching out, placing my hands upon her ears, I shared the memory and sights of all of the creatures, beasts and other members of the Necromancer’s legions and militia. Just as I lowered my hands, once the exchange was shared, I watched as she gasped with tears, “Yeah, I know right?” I handed her a tissue so she could wipe her tears away, “Now you know.”

“Oh my god…” Lady D grew shocked, “I’ve only heard stories.”

“Well, they’re not fictional.” I complained, “Anthony had the same reaction too, when I shared the images with him last night. Poor man, he’s trying to understand he is, but this is hard for him, I know it is.” I stood worried, “He doesn’t have to tell me, I can sense it as easily as I can sense it from you.”

“He’s a strong man, and he cares about you more than you realize.” Lady D too, stood, “I don’t think he is going anywhere, so just be a little understanding of his concerns. After all, you are engaged now.”

“Yeah, about that.” I turned to her, biting my lip.

“What, what’s wrong?” Lady D studied her daughter’s face, “You uh, haven’t ended things have you?”

“What?!” I spat loudly, “No, god no! That’s not what I meant.” my hands combed my hair back. Looking at her, I finished, “He and I are already married, I mean…we didn’t have the big ceremony but we married each other. In case you haven’t noticed, he’s been wearing his ring.”

“Wh-what?! No I haven’t noticed, when did this happen?” Lady D wondered curiously, folding her arms.

“After the ships were destroyed.” I rubbed my neck, “It was a spur of the moment kind of thing, but it couldn’t have been any better to be honest. I suggested it, and I didn’t think he would agree, but he did and we are…” I sighed affectionately, “married.” I nodded as a wide smile crept across my face, “And something feels different between us now, not in a bad way but…”

“I get it.” Lady D approached her, “I felt that way after your father and I got married, can’t describe it but you just know it’s something.” she smiled, “So, husband and wife…congratulations.” she held her close, hugging her quickly, “My baby girl, married.”

“I know.” I squeaked gleefully, then pulled away, “Now, getting off the subject of Anthony before I go looking for him to ravage him…” I chuckled softly, keeping the rest of that sentence to myself, “I think there are photos that need to be added to our current albums, hmm?” I veered around her, walking toward the bed then sat, beginning to flip through the old, adding their picture to the new books of all of the memories that had been captured since we arrived on the island.

“Mm-hmm.” Lady D shook her head, “If you say so.” she too, sat on the bed, then watched as Zanzabarr and Abraxas entered the room, “I think Freya missed you.” she greeted the wolf and dragon, then heard the felines’ faint meows as she emerged from under the bed.