Sealed Blood E-Book

Kirro Burrows

• Herausgeber: Next Chapter
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Beschreibung

All three books in 'Sealed Blood', a series of fantasy novels by Kirro Burrows, now available in one volume!

Catch A Raven: Raiven leads a complex life, balancing supernatural crime-solving and maintaining order in her city. When her friend is hurt due to her current case, things become even more complicated. Bound by duty, Raiven must be in constant proximity to Kisten, the forbidden man in her life. As she races to solve the case and catch the killer, the line between resolve and desire blurs. Will Raiven and Kisten resist temptation or succumb to their forbidden yearning?

Spot A Leopard: As Raiven takes the momentous step towards becoming Kisten's mate, uncertainties cloud her mind. Despite their excitement for the future, their differences still loom over their relationship. With the arrival of the Hunter Whistleblower, claiming to be Kisten's father, Raiven must tap into her latent necromancy to protect her mate. However, this unleashes unexpected revelations about her own power, raising new dangers. Racing against time, they must confront this threat, hoping their differences will ultimately unite them rather than drive them apart.

Kill A Dove: In the midst of wedding preparations, fear casts a shadow over Raiven's joy. With the relentless pursuit of Mater Vitae and her escalating powers, Raiven's life takes an unexpected twist when a potential new Hunter emerges, leading her and Kisten to Africa, her birthplace. In this vast and mysterious continent, Raiven seeks the truth about her past and the fate of all Supernaturals. Amid a web of fear, deception, and uncertainty, Raiven grapples with trust and questions the survival of her future with Kisten.

Leseprobe

Sealed Blood

THE COMPLETE SERIES

KIRRO BURROWS

Contents

Catch A Raven

Prologue

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Spot A Leopard

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Kill A Dove

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Epilogue

About the Author

Notes

Copyright (C) 2023 Kirro Burrows

Layout design and Copyright (C) 2023 by Next Chapter

Published 2023 by Next Chapter

Cover art by Lordan June Pinote

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without the author's permission.

Catch A Raven

SEALED BLOOD BOOK 1

“Don’t be,” he whispered, his breath hot and heavy as he breathed his words against my skin, allowing his breath to caress me. His hands gripped me tightly through my clothing and I was slightly surprised by his actions. Kisten always maintained an incredibly careful and calm demeanor, always distancing himself from me when he thought he was losing control. He growled softly, his voice sounding animalistic. “You’re all that I want now.”

To Maria Croft

Who never gave up on me.

To Sara Gardiner,

For helping me get here.

To my beautiful daughter,

Who taught me to do what makes me happy.

Prologue

'You need to go now.’

“I know,” I whispered back quietly, gently leaning on the door as I checked the hallway. No guards, no sign of any of the First. If I was going to make my escape, I knew I had to do it now. I grabbed the wooden trinket as it hung against my exposed bosom, taking a deep breath as I prepared myself for what I was about to do. There would be no turning back once I left the room, no chance to return.

‘Now!’ As my sister’s voice ran through my mind, I darted into darkness, quickly making my way down the Hallway. I ran straight to the crossing I had been escorted by so many times, doing my best to remember the directions my sister had given me. Left, Left, Straight, Right, Right, no wait, Left. I did my best to move as silently as I could, barely daring to breathe as I ran.The castle felt still, silent, as if everyone within was sleeping as Mother slept.

It wasn’t often that Mater Vitae slept: she only tended to sleep after expending great amounts of power, and I wasn’t sure what she had done to warrant this surprise slumber. All I knew was that it was probably my last chance to flee and if I didn’t take it now, I would never get another. Mother knew my secret and it was only a matter of time before she decided I was too dangerous to exist, just as she had done to Them.

“Who goes?!” My heart pounded to life as I heard a voice, and I quickly pressed myself into the shadows of the stone, thankful for my dark skin as I melted into the darkness. I watched slowly as a light approached the crossing, and one of the guards came into view. Their stern face wore an annoyed expression and it was obvious they didn’t want to be wandering the corridors of the castle at night. “Who dares slink about while Mother sleeps?”

I did my best to silence my breathing, gripping the wooden cross tightly as it grew warm beneath my hand. So close; we were so close to freedom. I could feel the fresh air pouring in from the door to my right, fresh air I had not breathed in centuries. Mother rarely let me out of my room and let me outside even less. She always knew that I would run if she did not keep a tight hold on my chain, but now it was fear that forced me to attempt my escape.

“Why cause such a noise at this hour?” I couldn’t help the relief that filled me as I heard one of the First approach the guard, drawing the man’s attention. I could feel the vampire’s aura as they drew closer to me, and I could only hope they would not sense me in the same way. I saw her shadow as she stopped near him, and I couldn’t help my slight feeling of sympathy as I heard him stumble over his words.

“M-m-my apologies, I-I thought I heard some–”

“No one would dare disturb Mother’s rest so callously,” the vampire interrupted, her voice stern and almost melodic as she spoke. I watched as her shadow passed that of the guard, and I saw her piercing blue eyes as she stepped into my view. She glanced around the hallways, and I could have sworn her eyes rested on me for a moment, but her gaze continued as she spoke. “As suspected, none are about. You would do best to keep your voice down, lest Mother take her anger out on you next.”

“Y-y-y-yes, Nisaba.” The man bowed, taking his light with him as he walked back down the corridor. The First seemed to linger in the growing darkness, her long white hair moving in an unknown wind as she shook her head. When she spoke next, my heart stopped beating.

“Be quick, she will awaken soon.” She kept her back to me as she spoke, following after the guard as she whispered her quiet words. I was frozen to the spot, surprised by what I had witnessed. Had… one of the First… just helped me?

‘You heard her, let’s go! We have to leave before Mater Vitae wakes up.’ My sister’s voice once again roused me from my stupor, and I released the cross as it grew warm under my hand. A moment later I slipped out the door into the quiet night air, not bothering to close it behind me. I took a moment just to breathe in the fresh night air, my lungs swelling with the sweet sensation. I could feel my sister’s annoyance with my pause, but the soft taste of freedom was exhilarating. Releasing the breath, I opened my eyes, staring at the garden before me.

I carefully made my way across the courtyard, praying to the Gods I could outrun the Hunter Mother would send after me. My thoughts returned to the vampire and a soft sound escaped me as I pushed aside a low-hanging branch. She had to know Vitae would find out, and Mother’s wrath would know no end once she did. Not only had Nisaba known I was there, she purposefully allowed me to escape: there was no gain in it for her, was there? Maybe she planned to pin the blame on the naive guard?

‘Stop wondering why and just be happy she did. Who knows why vampires do anything they do.’ My sister snapped and I sighed as I carefully climbed the wall, looking down on the forest below. She was right as always, and I had a long night ahead of me if I wanted to see the dawn. As I dropped from the stone and sprinted through the trees, I couldn’t help the quiet words as they escaped me.

“Thank you, Nisaba.”

1

“Well, enjoy your weekend!”

“Huh? Oh, ‘bye.” I waved to my co-workers as I slammed the hood of my trunk, pulling myself from the fog my thoughts had slipped into. I slid into my green Lexus and pulled away from the airport, my hands gripping the wheel tightly. It would be a long drive back home, and a thoughtful one; I had arrived back from NeoKansa after investigating another murder in my current case and while I enjoyed the chance to travel the country freely, I enjoyed living in The Capital and being home more.

Besides, my current case was anything but enjoyable: always arriving too late to prevent the crime was frustrating for the whole team, but especially for me. Any crime can be horrifying and difficult to accept, but this was especially true of crimes committed by Supernaturals, since our abilities allowed us to be far more deadly. By the time my team was called in, the case was a mess and that was never a good situation to be in.

And this case was the definition of a bad situation. Bodies piled up in rooms with no signs of entry, and the perpetrator was able to bypass magical barriers. The list of Supernaturals that could do that was small, and every theory seemed to be killed by the next crime. We had no luck in narrowing it down to even that aspect of who our killer was, and I was beginning to get more and more frustrated with the case.

Before I could dwell on it further, my phone began to ring, the sound distracting me from my spiraling thoughts. I knew who it was before I even began to dig around for my earpiece, sighing heavily as I did so. It was only so long until my boss discovered the plans his daughter and I had made for his Sunday, and I doubted he was happy about it.

“What, Brandon?” I answered, not attempting to hide my annoyance. He scowled on the other end, clearly sharing my sentiment. I could hear he was also driving home, although I knew he lived closer to the airport than I did.

“When was I going to learn about this meeting you set up between me and that… that thing?”

“First of all, Arkrian is not a thing: he’s your daughter’s fiancé and Shannon is the one who set everything up. I merely told her when you would be free.” I sighed again, knowing this would be an unpleasant conversation. “There are far worse things to be in this world than a shapeshifter, Brandon.”

“How dare you say that, after what that animal did to my–”

“Stop right there! That has nothing to do with Shannon and Arkrian.” I hated having the same argument repeatedly, and I’m sure Shannon was too, which is why she asked for my help. “We both know that. Your hatred for what Kynagi did is justified, no one is arguing that. But you cannot keep blaming all shifters for what one did.”

“I don’t want him anywhere near my daughter, much less me. Why Shannon insists on this bullshi–”

“I wasn’t finished yet, Boss.” I growled through gritted teeth to keep certain words from spilling out as I adjusted my grip on the wheel. The fact that he was being unfair and extremely judgmental of Arkrian didn’t matter, there are certain things you don’t say to your boss. “Secondly, I know Arkrian personally, and he wouldn’t do anything he knows you don’t approve of. For crying out loud, you haven’t even met him! That’s why Shannon set up that damn dinner for you guys: so you could try to get to know him because, whether you like him or not, Shannon will marry him.”

Silence on the other end. Brandon might not have liked it, but he knew I was right. Shannon had strongly voiced that if her father refused to give her away, she would have her brother do it, who was already a part of the Supernatural community thanks to his vampire bride. It was largely Mark’s secret marriage to a vampire that had Brandon so upset about Shannon also marrying a Supernatural, and a shifter at that. Although he swore that it wouldn’t affect his judgment on the job, it was obvious that he still blamed all shifters and Supernaturals in general for his wife’s loss. It must’ve seemed like a betrayal for both of his children to fall in love with non-humans, but that didn’t justify his behavior.

“I’m hanging up on you now, Brandon. All Shannon and I ask is that you give him half a chance, because if you don’t, you’re going to lose both of your children. I’d rather not see that happen.” I hung up as I pulled into the driveway of my home, parking in my garage as the door opened automatically. I dragged myself out of the car, hoping to relax on my couch as I slammed the door, not bothering to retrieve my luggage from the trunk.

My hopes were instantly dashed as I stepped into my home, however, as a tugging began in the back of my mind. The Overseer was calling me toward him, but I did my best to ignore the command as I stepped into the kitchen. Lucius had to know I had just gotten back from my case, and the last thing I felt like doing was playing babysitter to the Coven.

Searching my fridge for anything to settle my thoughts and dumping out old food, I decided on a bottle of yogurt, not wanting to put in the effort to cook. Slamming the fridge with my foot and ignoring the bill from the pet sitter, I made my way back to my living room, where Lira and Xris sat waiting for me. I knew I didn’t have time for them but couldn’t resist the desire to rest for a few moments while I did my best to ignore the Overseer. My two pretties jumped into my lap as soon as I plopped on my couch, both begging for my undivided attention. Petting with one hand and eating with the other, I gave them both attention as best I could, but my mind was elsewhere and the constant tugging wasn’t helping, either. Soon, both cats were meowing their disappointment in my performance.

“Well, you didn’t have me for long anyway. Lucius is being a dick, and I have to go pick up someone.” I scoffed, pushing them both out of my lap as I stood. I wearily walked down the hall to my bedroom, groaning as I pushed the door open. Tossing my clothing on an ever-growing pile of dirty clothes, I searched through my closet, changing into a simple blue shirt and shorts. My cats followed my every move, tangling themselves in my steps as they begged me to stay with their purrs and meows.

Forcing myself outside and climbing wearily back into the car, I pulled away from my empty shell of a home and began cruising back toward Decver. Out of all the cities in The Capital, it was by far the biggest that remained, but more importantly for me, it was the safest. Vitae’s Hunters were always searching for me, and it was only by moving whenever they got close that I had managed to avoid them for as long as I had. In a Governance as large as The Capital, I would have plenty of notice before a Hunter could reach me in Decver.

The sound of my phone ringing forced me out of my thoughts, and I huffed once I saw the name. I generally made it a rule not to talk while driving, but I had to make an exception for Lucius’ Coven and my boss. Although I had only taken on the role reluctantly, part of my job in the Coven was to be available to Lucius’ people in case he couldn’t be, which unfortunately included other Coven members.

“Raiven speaking.” I tapped my earpiece as I switched lanes, once again not trying to hide my annoyance.

“Hurry, Raiven, it’s already past eight.” It was Crispin, First in the Coven and a vampire I absolutely could not stand. He had texted me as soon as I landed to come pick him up from his outing, since apparently Lucius wanted him for something. I had absolutely no intention of picking him up, but now that I was also on my way to Lucius, I lacked a good excuse not to. “Where are you?”

“On the bridge.” I felt the familiar bump as I got on the bridge, switching lanes to pass the slow driver in front of me. “It does take a while to get there from my house.”

“Your house? I thought you were at the airport.”

“No.” I retorted. “I went home first.”

“Thought gas was too expensive for you to waste.” He teased, and I groaned as I did my best not to respond to the obvious bait. Technically, my whole make of car was illegal: gas engines had long been replaced with electric cars and being caught driving a guzzler would result in large fines and an impounded car. However, this car had seen me to hell and back: I would not give her up so easily.

“I hadn’t planned on wasting it,” I finally answered, glancing at the time as I noticed my exit. “I’ll be there soon.”

“Just hurry.” Turning off onto the state road, I began to move my stuff from the passenger seat as I sat at the light. I wasn’t used to having other people in my car, so any seat that I wasn’t in was fair game for papers, my gun, and a plethora of trash. I did my best to shove it all onto the backseat, pulling into the parking lot where I saw Crispin waiting. Despite the fact the sun had set hours ago, Crispin’s golden hair still seemed to glow as he walked up to me.

“Thanks Rai.” He collapsed against the seat as I pulled back into traffic. “I owe you.”

“Forget it.” I brushed him off as I headed toward our Overseer, annoyed by the ever-growing traffic and the tugging in my mind. I knew it was a holiday weekend, and many were eager to head downtown, but it annoyed me all the same. “Lucius was calling me anyway. Otherwise, I’d be home right now.”

“Good. I just hope that Eve isn’t there.” He sighed, closing his eyes as he slumped further in the seat. His simple shirt was unbuttoned at the top and his dark jeans hugged him tightly, but I tried not to notice as I glanced at him. Crispin was being unusually polite for once and besides that, he never shortened my name for any reason. My eyes continued drifting over him and I noticed something shiny around his wrist.

“That new?” I nodded to the watch, and then grew worried when he didn’t answer. Afraid to take my eyes off the road, I reached over to touch it, activating my power slightly. The moment my fingers brushed it, I knew it contained silver and couldn’t help my slight scowl. I yanked it off, tossing it out the window and angrily gripping my wheel as it bounced in the road. “For fuck’s sake, Mikael, maybe next time ask about the composition before you buy stupid jewelry.

“Sorry, I meant Crispin.” I quickly corrected myself, cursing internally as I realized my mistake. I felt it as his power reacted to me using his human name and I could tell he was staring at me even as I avoided meeting his gaze.

“No, what did you call me?” Crispin’s voice was suspicious, and he leaned over to touch my arm. I flinched ever so slightly at the touch, but with him so close, there was no way he missed it. His return to normal was unfortunately quick, and I was starting to wish I had left the watch on him. “Did you… just call me Mikael?”

“Sorry,” I muttered as we neared The Landing, grateful to be out of the seemingly endless traffic. I kept my eyes on the road and tried to pretend Crispin wasn’t there, even as his gaze burned into me. “Sometimes I slip up with the name changes. I’ll try not to dead name you again.”

“Unlike Lucius, I don’t tend to share my human name. How do you know that name?” As soon as I parked, he tried to pull me closer, but I pulled away, fighting the urge to slap him. He was right: under normal circumstances, I shouldn’t have known his dead name. However, the situation between me and Crispin wasn’t normal, and only I knew the reason why. Before I could say anything more, Kisten came into view, saving me from the vampire’s interrogation.

“There’s Kisten. Let’s go before he gets the wrong idea.” I quickly climbed out of my car, thankful for his perfect timing. Crispin was about to make it evident that he wasn’t done with me when Kisten stopped, staring at us. Kisten’s expression was blank as he looked at us, and he seemed a little distracted.

“Does Lucius know you were out, Cris?”

“No,” we answered simultaneously, then Crispin continued: “I went out on my own for a bit. Asked for a ride once Lucius called me back.”

“Oh,” he shrugged, his eyes lingering on me for only a moment before he looked away. A soft look flashed through his chartreuse eyes, but it passed just as quickly as it had appeared. “Well, Evalyn and Lucius are looking for both of you, so I’d hurry. Especially you, Cris.”

“Where are you going?” I asked as he continued down the sidewalk, evidently in a hurry to leave. I was surprised when he actually stopped to answer, glancing over his shoulder. His eyes softened again as they met mine and then returned to their sad and gloomy stare.

“Home.” He shifted as he took off down the walk, rushing to get away. I watched him disappear into the darkness of the night and turned to catch Crispin walking the way Kisten had come. Silently, I followed in his shadow and chastised myself for my earlier slip-up. Usually, I avoided Crispin like the plague, not only to avoid what had happened earlier, but because I just couldn’t stand who he had become.

“Raiven!” Somewhere in my thoughts, I heard Eve’s voice and I realized we had reached the back of The Dream. Lucius owned The Landing and many nightclubs in Decver, but The Dream was one of two clubs that allowed humans and Supernaturals to mingle. By default, that also made it one of the more popular night clubs, and considering it was a holiday weekend, tonight seemed to be no exception.

“Raiven, where have you and Crispin been?” She was in her security outfit and, judging by her attitude, was not happy about playing babysitter at the club. Lucius required all his Coven to help with the businesses, and Eve was no exception, as much as she liked to be. Besides that, we were technically coworkers outside of the Coven, and she never got over the fact I was on the Central team while she was stuck on the local. She failed to understand that I had been working with Division 11 since its inception, and merely saw me as a rival in her quest for power.

The ala was glaring at me as if she wanted to eat me alive and I decided I couldn’t pass up the chance to make her even more upset. Besides, Crispin had already managed to find his way on my bad side and I was upset that Lucius had even called me here. I grinned as I crossed my arms, ignoring the concerned look on Crispin's face.

“Well, he needed a ride back,” I started, and Crispin sighed, relieved that I was telling the truth. I couldn’t help my smirk as I continued. “So, I picked him up and brought him here. Then we got freaky in the car and it was great. As you can imagine, we didn't want to rush things.”

Crispin and Eve glared at me as I smiled and shrugged, but Crispin cut her off before she could say a word. “Leave it, Eve; it’s not true. I did need a ride back, but I accidentally called Raiven instead of you. If you don’t want me calling her, get your number changed.”

At least my lie was fun. I thought, turning away. I guess it helped to cool her down, because she turned from us, her fists curling and uncurling as she sought to control her anger. Eve’s cell number was terribly similar to mine, with only the last two numbers being different and she had been encouraged to change her number several times. However, as usual, she saw it as losing to me and refused to concede.

“Anyway, both of you need to hurry. Lucius is looking for you.” She stomped off into the club, her red hair waving as she left us in the dark parking lot. Crispin and I walked down further, entering a door that would take us beneath The Landing and into the Coven. Climbing down the dimly lit stairs into the earth, Crispin suddenly stopped, and I unerringly ran into him. He whipped around like lightning and pinned me to the wall with his body. Being so close, I knew he felt my heartbeat quicken and I did my best to hide my anger.

“Why is it every time I touch you, your heartbeat quickens? Do I scare you or…” He leaned in close, his breath dancing across my skin. I had to fight the involuntary shudder it caused and instead, I glared at him. He chuckled at my glare, clearly entertained. “Is it more?”

“Because I want your body. Now put me down,” I quipped, and Crispin chuckled again, moving as if to bite me. Instead, he lightly kissed my collarbone, and it only enraged me more. I moved my leg as if to kick him, but he quickly shifted his weight to stop me. His eyes swirled with power when he looked up at me, and I knew he was using his inhuman strength to keep me pinned.

“Stop with the bullshit, Raiven. You’ve turned me down every time I’ve offered it to you.” Crispin’s expression turned serious, and I couldn’t help the slight fear that crept into me. If it came down to a fight, I could likely win, but Lucius would be furious with both of us fighting in the Coven. “How do you know my human name?”

“Let me down and maybe I’ll consider being honest.” I stared into his eyes as he let me down, his blue eyes burning with mischief. I didn’t appreciate the whole ‘pinning me to the wall’ part, or the light teasing he had decided to indulge in. I rolled my shoulders a bit and cracked my neck, knowing I was only annoying him. “I’ll tell you later, if I feel like it.”

“In my room, then,” he agreed and continued down the stairs, leaving me enraged on the steps. I felt less like telling him the truth and more like helping him to stake himself. I knew it wouldn’t kill him, but it would at least get him out of my hair for the rest of the night.

“Coming?” I snapped from my thoughts and jogged down the stairs to meet him as he called back to me. We walked down the hallway together, our steps echoing as I matched his stride. I considered smacking him for being an arrogant prick but lost the chance when we reached the living room of the underground space, Crispin opening the heavy doors.

As soon as we stepped into the room, I knew something was off. Lucius usually kept the living room fairly well furnished: a couple of couches, a few armchairs, two TVs on each side and a coffee station so we could gather and talk. However, now most of the furniture had been taken out: only two couches and the coffee spot remained, making the space seem bigger than it ever had appeared before.

“Crispin, Raiven, please sit.” Lucius motioned for us to sit on the couch across from him and his guest as soon as he noticed us. Lounging beside him was a caramel-skinned vampire who was all smiles and his eyes followed us as we moved through the room. Justina stood against the far wall next to the coffee, staring off into the distance. I couldn’t see her face, but the air in the room was almost suffocating, which meant she was upset about something. Lucius seemed to be ignoring her and continued as we sat, perching on opposite ends of the couch. “I’d like to introduce our guest, LeAlexende, Overseer of the Southern Grove. He will be visiting with us for the Fest of Peace this weekend.”

“Welcome to our territory. We look forward to your graces as we bless you with ours.” Ignoring the angry sorcerer, I addressed our guest and he nodded, his already wide grin growing wider, emphasizing the oddity of his purple eyes. He tossed his blonde hair as he laughed, clearly pleased with my words.

“The pleasure is indeed mine.” LeAlexende’s eyes flashed with mirth as he turned to Lucius. “Rare to find someone who knows the traditional greeting. An interesting one indeed, just as you said.”

“Yes, indeed,” The Overseer agreed, giving LeAlexende a soft smile before addressing us. I glared at him in return, and he shrugged, still smiling. Sometimes Lucius’ arrogance to brag about me was as annoying as Crispin thinking he owned every woman in the world. It was no wonder they got along so well. “While Alexende is in our territory, I will allow excursions, but all members of the Coven must remain here, save those who are out of Decver.”

I groaned internally at the order but was careful not to show my disappointment on my face as I spoke. “For how long?”

“Until Monday.” Three days stuck at the Coven, except for Kisten. According to Eve, he caused too much commotion when he had to stay and was a ‘disturbance’. Considering no one had ever seen it and the fact that Kisten was the most mild-mannered person I had ever met, I think she made it up as an excuse to not have him around to influence Lucius. Kisten never wanted to be around anyway, so I guess it was a decision that worked for both of them.

“I’ll be here. I have Monday off from the office.” I shrugged, doing my best to hide my annoyance. I wasn’t close to most of the Coven, and it was always awkward when I was forced to spend time with everyone else. “But I’m on call for an important case, so if it comes, I’m gone.”

“You may leave.”

I wasn’t sure which way he meant it, but I took it for both: I stood up to escape the room. As I walked by, Crispin grabbed my arm, forcing me to pause in my movement. At that moment, Justina glanced up with her green eyes, her deep blue hair rippling. My own power surged through me, and I knew my eyes had grown brighter.

“Strike two, Crispin. Try me for three.” I growled, narrowing my eyes at the vampire. I knew it was rude to fight in front of a guest, but Crispin had been working on my nerves ever since I picked him up, making my already bad mood worse. Lucius didn’t say a word but the charge in the surrounding air increased, making the already dense air even harder to breathe in. Crispin glanced at Lucius, who maintained his soft smile and polite expression. He slowly released the grip on my arm and turned away from me.

“Crispin, I’d like to speak with you.” Lucius’ words were still polite as he looked at LeAlexende and Justina. Justina left without so much as a word and LeAlexende nodded as he stood.

“I can take a hint. We can finish catching up later,” the tan Overseer walked up to me, opening the door that led to the rest of the Coven. “After you.”

“Gratias1.” I passed him and carefully held the door open as he walked through, making sure to close it behind us. It was about time someone talked to Crispin about his manners, or lack thereof.

“By the way, you have an interesting accent, one I have not heard in a long time. I look forward to getting to know you better… Raiven.” He flashed another bright smile before walking away, disappearing in the darkness. Steamed by Crispin’s actions and Lucius’ bragging, I continued to Crispin’s room and slammed the door as I entered. On the other side, I heard someone mutter about me being inconsiderate, but I didn’t care in the least. I leaned against the door, the weight of my evening trying to drown me. I hated days like this, when it seemed like the Gods were determined to make me as miserable as possible.

Sighing heavily, I forced myself up from the heavy wood and collapsed into his armchair, closing my eyes as I waited.

2

“Raiven, is that you?” I opened my eyes as Crispin’s door opened, and Justina walked in. A glance at the clock told me I had only fallen asleep for a short while and I rubbed my eyes as she closed the door. If it had been anyone else, I would’ve helped them see their way out. However, Justina was higher ranked than me and on top of that, I liked her. “Why are you in Cris’ room?”

“He wanted to talk in his room.” I sighed, relaxing back into his armchair, still annoyed and upset from earlier. Justina sat on the bed across from me, her expression showing how much she didn’t believe me. I shrugged, sinking lower into the chair. “I’m finally going to tell him the truth so he’ll leave me the hell alone.”

“Which one?” she joked lightly, until she registered the annoyed look in my eye. Her face turned serious, and her voice dropped in volume. “Oh, that one… Are you sure you’re ready? That he’s ready?”

“Should’ve done it forever ago. I’m so tired of him and besides… I need to do this for myself,” I closed my eyes, unable to help the weight that started to settle on my chest. The sorcerer said nothing, waiting patiently for me to continue. “He’ll be fine. He’s turned into such a womanizer that I doubt it’ll bother him that much. I’m the one who’s been carrying this.”

“You’ve carried your guilt long enough. Time for you to let go,” Justina assured me, studying me. Then: “I’ll never stop being amazed by you. It’s not common to see someone with dark skin and bright green eyes and your hair is so beautiful and unique. It’s a shame you cut it so short.”

“Oh, don’t you start it too: everyone has been complaining about that. We both know I was sick of all that hair and besides, your eyes are brighter than mine. My eyes are far more hazel most of the time.” I pointed out, rubbing my hand over my short afro and Justina laughed, the sound filling the room. I couldn’t help my slight smile at the sound, standing from the chair as she stood. I allowed her to take my hands in her own, looking up to meet her gaze as her laughter faded.

“Oй бай1. I’m Russian, Rai. Green eyes are a part of who I am,” I closed my eyes as she kissed my forehead before kissing me gingerly on the lips. I enjoyed kissing Justina, but for her, it was a gesture of closeness and trust. I had learned long ago to accept them as merely that and to quell any thoughts of it being more. “But you are not and that makes you unique. I know you don’t like being stuck here with the rest of us, but if you can swallow that pride, you can stay in my room tonight.”

“We’ll see,” I answered softly, reluctantly letting her hand slip from mine, and I fell back into Crispin’s chair as she left. I closed my eyes again as she gently closed the door, my thoughts turning to the years I had with Crispin before he was turned. Then, way back then, he was kind, sweet, and thoughtful, just like…

“Raiven.” I barely moved as he walked in and closed the door silently behind him. I ran my hand over my hair again, keeping my gaze on Crispin as he sat on his bed, studying him, reading him. Hating what being turned had done to him as I fought not to glare at the vampire. It wasn’t his fault, but despite what people love to say, being turned does change a person.

“What did Lucius want?” I asked softly.

Crispin scoffed in response as he leaned back on his bed.

“To ‘remind’ me that I’m not supposed to make a scene in front of guests,” he repeated sarcastically, making air quotes as he spoke. “Honestly, I think you made more of a scene than me.”

“You started it and you damn well know it.” I could feel the anger boiling in my chest again, but I forced myself to swallow it down. “Do you want to know why I know your name, or not?”

“Well, I’m going to guess someone told you.” He looked at me coyly, crossing his legs as he leaned back on his bed. Crispin was still handsome, his golden hair always somehow falling exactly right around his shoulders. I found myself tracing the stark line of his collarbone with my eyes, following the line that ran down the center of his chest. His top buttons were still open, showing the muscle he had never had before being turned. His dark pants did little to hide his physique but despite the changes, I couldn’t help but trace with my eyes what I had once touched with my hands.

Crispin cleared his throat to get my attention, causing me to jump slightly and raise my eyes to his. His face held a devilish grin, and he lifted his hand to his chest, enticingly tracing the exposed skin there. He knew I had been staring at him and I snorted, turning away from his display.

“Yeah, someone did. You,” I said plainly, and Crispin laughed, throwing his head back for gravitas. I waited until he decided to stop being dramatic and to see that I wasn’t kidding. He let out a loud breath, leaning forward on his elbows as he spoke.

“One would think I’d remember if I did,” Crispin scoffed, his blue eyes looking into mine deeply as he tried to read me. I met his gaze evenly, wishing I could run away to Justina’s room already as he continued. “Like I said, a precious few have been trusted with that information and I don’t recall telling you.”

“That’s because it was before you turned.” I closed my eyes, sighing heavily as I tried to decide how honest I wanted to be. “You and I were once close friends, maybe more than that. We had met at a party and I guess we hit it off well. I know your memories of before are spotty at best, but…”

“I can’t say my recollection is the best, but I think I’d remember you. You are quite unusual after all, and an exquisite beauty, even now.” Crispin smiled, his fangs appearing as he gazed at me. He undressed me with his eyes as I had done him, and I didn’t appreciate the look. “You are much, much older than me, so you would’ve already changed by the time you met me.”

“I was, and the memories might start to surface someday, if I stay here.” I sighed internally as I mused. “We spent a lot of time together back then, in the comfort of each other’s embrace. But…”

“Oh?” The dark hint that entered his expression as he interrupted me was enough to make me stand and move for the door. However, he was faster and managed to pin me to it, preventing me from leaving. Crispin pressed himself into me, placing his hand over mine on the handle as he kept me pinned to his door. He slid his free hand down my back, gingerly lifting the edge of my top and tracing the skin above my shorts, teasingly playing with the small of my back. I had to fight the desire to arch my back towards him and tried to ignore his playful touch as he whispered into my ear, his voice deep and sultry.

“Well, maybe you should use your embrace to remind me. Perhaps I might remember if I had a taste,” I closed my eyes, focusing on my anger before whipping around sharply. He must not have expected me to react so violently, because he was easily tossed back by my movement. His eyes showed shock for a moment, before returning to their devilish intent. “It’s an honest suggestion, Raiven.”

“Back then, my embrace meant something to you. I meant something to you,” I spat, taken aback by my tone as I spoke. I was angry, but I was also… hurt. Hurt in a way I thought I had long overcome. “Enough that you wanted–”

I stopped myself, covering my face as I kept the words from spilling out. I owed Crispin the truth, I knew that, but I hadn’t expected how much I still cared about him. How much I still hated myself for being the reason he was turned. I took a deep breath before dropping my hands, unable to help the anger in my eyes as I looked at him again.

“But now that you’ve turned, you’re no longer that person. You’re selfish, arrogant and nothing like the person I knew, a man who would never have used another person for his own lustful gains.” I turned away from his unreadable expression, my chest aching. “I hate seeing what you’ve become, knowing that it’s my fault. That I didn’t protect you when you needed me the most. That’s why I avoid you, why I hate being near you, and why I hate interacting with you.

“Mikeal is dead, and now we all have Crispin, with no one to blame but me.” With that, I left the room, slamming the door again as I stood in the hallway. I thought I heard him softly call my name, but I ignored it, quickly heading for Justina’s room. My gait slowed as I realized I was approaching my door and I paused as I reached it. I slowly fingered the raven carved into the wood, my anger beginning to fade now that I was no longer near the vampire.

Slowly, I went inside, pausing in the doorway of my dark room. My eyes drifted through the darkness before resting on my vanity against the far wall, just visible with the light from the hallway. Turning on the light near the door, I slowly made my way to my small makeup desk and sat down, looking at the rings scattered on its top. I reached for an ornate jewelry box, opening it to reveal the various jewels and gems that had been gifted to me over the years. My eyes rested on a single ring, the reason I had entered my room and been drawn to the desk. It was nothing more than a simple gold band, but I lifted it up, unable to help the turmoil it caused in my chest.

‘Are you finally going to move on?’ My sister’s consciousness suddenly spoke, making me jump in my seat. I grabbed the wooden locket that housed my sister’s soul as it grew warm under my shirt, her voice annoyed. ‘You can’t keep holding onto the past forever.’

“I know.” I gazed into the shining metal and this time, I could see his face, hear his laugh as if no time had passed at all. I looked up into the mirror, seeing the dark-skinned beauty that stared back at me. I was abnormal, never to be accepted as a human or a Supernatural. A prize to some, a threat to others, but he had treated me like a treasure, even once he knew what I was. And I repaid that by allowing him to be killed, allowing him to be turned. “I know, I just…”

‘Miss him? You can miss him until you’re dead, but it’ll never bring him back the way you remember him.’ I could hear my sister’s disdain as she lectured me, and I closed my eyes as she continued. ‘Accept what happened, accept that he’s changed and stop torturing yourself.’

“Yeah… I know, I know.” I carefully put the ring back where it belonged and, choosing a different one, slowly stood up from my desk. “Go back to sleep, you shouldn’t waste energy right now. He knows now, so I’ll… I’ll be fine.”

‘Fine. Be well, Raiven.’ I quietly left my room as her consciousness faded and I continued to Justina’s room. The room was already dark when I stepped inside, and I could hear Justina’s soft breathing as she slept. Once inside the dark room, the weight of my day pressed on me, and I felt exhausted as I walked to her bed. Collapsing on top of the sheets next to her, I fell asleep quickly, wishing for the day to end.

3

I awoke late the next day with Justina’s strong arms around me and her cool breath on my neck. The scent of vanilla wafted up my nostrils and I quickly realized the being beside me wasn’t Justina. I quickly sat up and Aurel laughed as he released me, his grin bright on his face.

“Well, good afternoon. I thought you were going to sleep all day.” He sat up as well, revealing that he was shirtless from the waist up. I merely grunted as I rubbed the sleep from my eyes, realizing I was still on top of the sheets. I felt Aurel gently touch my hand, and I allowed him to take it as he spoke. “By the way, I like the ring. It’s gorgeous on your petite hands. Whoever got it for you picked it exactly right.”

Aurel was studying the band intently, and I couldn’t help my slight smile at his fascination. One of Aurel’s many hobbies was to collect jewelry from the past and he had quite the collection. After all, he had been collecting for the past hundred years and was jealous of every piece I owned. After a while, he spoke again, the awe obvious in his tone. “This is a classic, the setting and cut of the stone is iconic. Renaissance?”

“Yeah, a good friend got it for me for one of my birthdays.” I smiled, loving Aurel’s expression as he studied the ring. I glanced around the room for its owner but saw no sign of her. “Where’s Justina?”

“Dunno.” He shrugged, looking up and releasing my hand. “She left and told me to watch you. Made me promise like I’m a fucking gack.”

“So, you decided to climb in bed with me?” I joked as he laughed, unable to help the slight smile that came to my face. I considered Aurel another of the few friends I had in the Coven, but lately, things had become strained between us. Any moment when we could enjoy being friends was a nice reminder of what I wanted to preserve. However, as soon as his laughter began to fade, a soft look entered his eyes and my smile immediately faded.

“Raiven.” He reached to stroke my cheek and I pulled back, not wanting him to touch me. Aurel’s feelings toward me had begun to shift and while he had yet to ask me to join his harem, he made no small secret of how he felt. I didn’t feel anything more than friendship for him and I drew in a deep breath, steeling myself for what I knew I needed to say.

“Aurel, you need to stop.” I stated plainly, watching as confusion flitted across his face. I was sure if he had been alive, his face would have changed color, but being undead left his face the same pale color. Those gentle sea-green eyes were starting to show hints of Aurel’s annoyance, and I swallowed as I waited for him to respond.

“Stop what, A ghrá1?”

“That, right there. You need to stop,” I insisted, finally standing from the bed as he looked after me curiously. My heart pounded as I met his gaze, but I forced myself to meet it evenly. Aurel was playing stupid, but I knew he understood what I meant. Dragging this out wouldn’t help either of us, and I couldn’t keep my silence. “We’re friends, Aurel. I don’t want–”

“Want what, Raiven?” Aurel stood, his eyes glowing dangerously as he let his emotions get the better of him. His curly orange hair almost seemed to expand in his annoyance, but I refused to be intimidated, crossing my arms as he stood across from me. I knew Aurel did not take rejection well, but I would not be coerced. “You only spend time with me when you’re forced to be here, so why do you put up with me at all? Is there something you’re hiding from me?”

“Maybe because I don’t want to hurt you, you idiot!” I snorted, moving away from the bed to Justina’s armchair. I gripped the back tightly as I scowled at the lich, my own annoyance growing. “Does forcing yourself on me make you any better? Maybe the reason I don’t spend time with you is because you always guilt trip me about it. Sometimes you act no better than Mother, wanting to add me to another of your collections.”

Surprised flitted across Aurel’s face and I immediately regretted my words as I realized what I said. Comparing anyone to Mater Vitae was a great insult, and the words had flown out of my mouth without thought. Upon recognizing the hurt and anger in his eyes, I tried to apologize, releasing the chair as I spoke.

“Aurel, I’m sorry, I didn’t–”

“Of course not. You never do.” He walked by me without looking up and pushed his way past Crispin and Justina as they walked in the door. I collapsed down into the chair, cradling my face between my hands as I mentally chastised myself for my hasty words. Justina looked after Aurel as he left, turning a quizzical expression to me.

“What did you do?”

“We had a fight, what does it look like?” I replied sarcastically, sighing heavily as I tried to calm myself down. Getting upset with Justina would get me nowhere and I knew it. I looked up from my hands, glancing at the pair as they watched me with concern. “Why did you leave me with him, anyway?”

“I needed to get Crispin up and I was trying to be nice for once. Plus, I thought you… well, obviously I was wrong.” Justina shook her head disapprovingly as I tried to change the subject.

“What did you need to get Crispin up for?”

“That’s private.” She glanced at him and I didn’t like the look they shared, frowning as I dropped my hands from my face. It not only confused me, but it was as if they had a whole conversation with that one look. I knew Justina was Second in the Coven, but it wasn’t like either of them to keep secrets. Both were honest to a fault, and it caused them both issues with other members of the Coven in their own ways.

“Is there something I should know about?” I didn’t do much to hide the suspicion in my voice as I spoke, pulling my legs into the chair. “I’m going to guess it isn’t a Coven matter.”

“No, nothing like that,” Crispin answered, a little too quickly. I decided not to push it as he continued, still giving him an annoyed look. “I know we have permissions for excursions, but we have to be back before LeAlexende and Lucius wake up.”

“And? I care because?” I glanced at the clock above her bathroom, which read a little after one. Justina must’ve used her magic to wake Crispin early and I glanced at her, trying to judge her intention. She was looking away from me, her expression unreadable as she refused to meet my gaze.

“And, I want to show you something.” Crispin smiled mysteriously, and Justina looked up to shoot him an angry glance. I didn't even hesitate with my answer.

“No.”

“Raiven, please.” Crispin looked ready to argue when Justina stopped him and looked at me, a pleading look in her eyes as she spoke first. I turned to face the sorcerer fully, trying to understand her motives. Justina usually tried to stay on an even footing with everyone in the Coven, especially since her anger and her honest mouth often got her in trouble. I couldn’t understand why she was supporting whatever Crispin wanted, but since it was her, I decided I was curious enough to find out why.

“Fine. Just leave while I change.”

“Sure.” Justina cut Crispin off and pushed him out the door, not giving the vampire a chance to annoy me. I grabbed some clothing that I knew I had left in Justina’s room, but I decided to dress near the door so I could hear their conversation. Justina’s door never closed all the way, due to a fight she got into with a suitor, and Lucius didn’t consider it important to repair anymore. She was constantly breaking it for some reason or another, and I couldn’t blame him for not wanting to waste the time.

“Don’t play with her, Cris. I mean it,” Justina warned, her voice low and heavy, almost as if she were preparing to cast. “You’ll pay for it. She’ll make sure you do and so will I. You just need to tell her the truth.”

“I won’t play with her.” The vampire promised lightly, and it took all I had not to scoff, lest they hear me. Justina sighed heavily and I heard the door groan as she leaned against it slightly.

“You will, I know it,” she sounded defeated, and I leaned forward to hear her next words better. “You will never change.”

“And you’ll never trust me. You know I don’t mess around when it’s serious… well, not too much.” Crispin laughed softly and it sounded like he moved closer to her. “Let me have at least a little fun, Raiven makes it too easy.”

Justina never got to reply because I opened the door at that moment and Crispin quickly stepped back. I frowned, still not trying to hide my displeasure and annoyance with having to spend time with the vampire. “I’m as ready as I’ll ever be.”

“Good.” He quickly linked my arm in his and we walked down the dark Coven hallway into the way-too-bright sunshine. At first I thought he might be annoyed by being forced to deal with the sun, but the vampire seemed just fine as he strolled through the parking lot. He was in no danger from it considering his age, but he still preferred to avoid direct sunlight after being out of it for so long. I watched as he produced keys from his pocket, and I looked at the vampire as if he had grown a new head.

“Since when do you drive?”

“Since Justina said I could drive her car and we don’t have the time to walk there,” Crispin shrugged, unlocking the vehicle to locate where it was in the parking lot. He glanced back to my smug expression, not trying to hide his own annoyance for once. “I know how to drive, Raiven. I just don’t see the point in owning a car.”

“Yeah, why own a car when you can be undead and responsible and walk?” I muttered sarcastically as I climbed in the car, waiting impatiently as he joined me. Crispin was far from the only undead who preferred to walk most places, but it was easier to be of that opinion when all the trappings of being alive weren’t a problem. “Where are we going, anyway?”

“What fun would that be?” He leaned over and kissed my forehead before I could react. After it occurred to me that this was strike three for him, I slapped him, growling slightly. He actually had the audacity to grin at my retaliation, and I realized he’d kissed me to see if he could get a reaction.

“You must have enjoyed it to slap me that hard.”

Seething and resisting the desire to slap him again, I turned away from him as we left The Landing. As my anger passed, my mind floated to Aurel and guilt gripped my mind and chest as I remembered my words. It was the worst thing I could’ve said, considering all the horrible things Mother had done when she controlled Supernaturals and those in her court. Regardless of my lack of romantic feelings and his bad attitude, he hadn’t done anything to warrant that kind of comparison.

“Where are we?” I leaned forward as we pulled into what appeared to be a public garden and my confusion continued to grow. Such gardens were common, making it easier for people to plant and care for their own plot of flowers or vegetables, but I couldn't understand why Crispin would take me to one. The vampire merely smiled, getting out and leaning on the car as he waited for me to join him.

“Just set your watch for two-fifteen so we don’t end up being late.” He still refused to answer my question as he started for the garden’s entrance. I set my watch and, leaning against the car, watched him walk away. He managed to get pretty far before he realized I wasn’t following, and I couldn’t help my smirk as he sighed. “C’mon, Raiven.”

“Why?”

“You’ll see.” He stood there facing me, arms crossed as he turned around. Stubborn, I equally crossed mine and stared at him, refusing to budge. We remained that way for a while and I took a moment to glance at my watch. If I could hold him for a few more minutes, I wouldn’t have to worry about whatever it was he wanted to show me. Then suddenly, he tossed his hair, flashing a stream of gold in the sunlight. “Oh well, let’s go. I’ll just tell Justina that we drove here for nothing.”

I was intrigued by his mention of Justina but refused to move for a moment, just to pay him back for earlier. Crispin waited to see if his words had affected me before he started walking towards the car, shaking his head. I waited until he was within arm’s length before I walked past him, twisting so he couldn’t touch me.

“I knew you’d give in.” He grinned behind me as he followed and I shrugged, pretending not to care.

“It’s not always about you,” I warned, opening the garden’s gate. “I only gave in because if I didn’t, it would’ve been a waste for Justina and unlike how I feel about you, I like her.”

“True, true.” He nodded, only pretending to agree. I turned around and slapped him again – half for the sarcasm I didn’t appreciate, half because he was so cocky. He reached to grab my hand but I was quick to snatch it back, hissing as he walked past me. I growled as I began following him, wanting this outing to be over with.

‘Raiven.’ My sister’s voice rose in my mind again as she responded to my annoyance. ‘Who are you with?’

‘Say hello to the new improved Mikael, now known as Crispin.’ The locket grew warm under my shirt and out of habit, I reached up to grab it. Once I realized Crispin was watching me, however, I stopped. ‘