Chrysalis Fire & Rain

By M.L. Lacy

As Esmeralda’s fleet of dragons grows stronger and deadlier, Madalyn devises a lethal plan that strikes at the very heart of not only Bree and her clan, but of the Halsing clan as well.
Bree’s powers continue to develop—but her physical strength is beginning to deteriorate, which puts her on a collision course in her battle against Esmeralda. The untimely death of her sixth, causes Bree’s men to act quickly to ensure Bree’s circle is complete and the prophecy remains true.
As the threat to the realm becomes dire, the Elders break their silence and try to aid the last Chosen One on her path. But will they be in time? Will it be enough to defeat Esmeralda? And will Bree even allow their interference?
Friendship, loyalty, and faith are tested to the brink in the fourth book of the Chrysalis Series – Fire and Rain.

• Language: English
• Publisher: M.L. Lacy
• Release date: Feb 24, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311587787

M.L. Lacy

M.L. Lacy is the author of the Chrysalis Series (The Awakening, Tribulations, and Trepidation) and the upcoming Starburst Series. M.L. Lacy was awarded the first place in the Rebecca's Read's 2010 Written Art Award for her book The Awakening in the Fiction: Science Fiction/Fantasy Category.

Book preview

Chapter 2

Bree’s story continues…

February 2008

Steven and I arrived on the parapet on the east side of the castle exactly where Celia told us to arrive. She said the walls of the castle would open for us and lead us directly to our new home. I stared out onto the expanse of land that stretched for as far as I could see and then some.

The predawn light allowed me to see the deep snow that covered the ground in a blanket of winter’s protection. Several deer were making their way into the canopy of pine as their nightly travels were ending. I could see smoke rising from chimneys of homes hidden in the forest of evergreen and pine. Mammoth snowcapped mountains stood as majestic sentinels protecting the entire area. The view of this valley, Elder’s Valley, was spectacular.

Breathtaking, isn’t it? Steven whispered, as he opened his cloak and wrapped his arms around my waist, pulling me to him. In the spring, there are two waterfalls that cascade down those slopes, he said, pointing toward the mountains that faced us, and then he pointed south toward the far end of the valley where the landscape was flat and treeless, and continued to paint the picture in my mind. That’s a large lake over there. It’s covered in snow and ice now, but during the spring thaw, the runoff from the mountains feeds the lake, and it streams out toward the opening of the valley and to another waterfall.

It’s beautiful. All of it is just beautiful. I inhaled the smell of pine and crisp mountain air, and looked back toward the homes as my curiosity grew. How did they get those homes built so quickly?

Ah seriously? You’re going to ask me that?

Well, yeah. I mean—yeah.

He shook his head and chuckled, and as he wrapped his arms tighter around me, he said, Magic, it’s all built by magic, my darling.

And the homes are sturdy?

Extremely, even more than human dwellings, and being in the valley gives them added protection. We’ll walk through the town later.

Town? I asked in disbelief as I turned to look at him. They’ve already built the town?

Most of it. Brad said the construction crew is finished with our offices, his and John’s, and almost all of the shops in town. Some storekeepers have already moved in. They were working on the school last night.

Steven, we’ve only been gone a few days.

Magic doesn’t adhere to time. Once the spell is started, it just takes off. They’ll begin Bill, Rick, and Brad’s homes tomorrow.

Who lives in those? I asked, pointing toward the rising chimney smoke from the forest in front of us.

Some of your sisters’ covens, those who wanted to come here and live with them. The homes for members of your coven will be built against the mountains on the west side.

I rested my head against his chest, as I fought to keep my eyes open. The hour was early, and I was still tired. I still felt the weakness in my body—my muscles begging for rest. Destroying the demon took more out of me than I wanted to admit, but I wasn’t going to mention it now. I was looking forward to Stanley’s promise of teaching me to fold space over long distances, and all the training my sisters had promised me. I wasn’t going to ruin it by complaining about how tired and weak I felt.

You’re still tired, aren’t you? I knew we shouldn’t have gotten up so early.

No, I’m not tired, just relaxed, I lied.

Well, let’s get you inside.

We walked up to the outer wall of the castle, and I lightly brushed my fingertips along the granite. A wavering in the stone formed a smile, and I couldn’t help but smile back as a grand archway opened to my new world.

I felt so many emotions racing through me. My heart surged with its excitement, my body relaxed with its comfort, and my mind felt safe—truly safe. I knew I was protected by my family and my clan, but there was always an underlying tension. I was usually the reason of the tension because of the path I needed to follow, but as that archway opened, all of that pressure was gone and I knew we would be happy here. I could actually feel the castle welcoming me home. We stepped across the threshold and had only taken two steps inside when the wall behind us closed, protecting me from my enemies, and I didn’t look back.

We followed the passageway to the end where a door opened into our living room. The room was enormous and filled with some of the furnishings from our old house in Texas. I’d had mixed feelings about leaving Texas, even though I honestly couldn’t say that the house I’d been living in had been a home. We’d only lived in that house one month before it was decided we would move to the castle after all the events I stirred up last month, but I was still saddened to leave it. Harry, a longtime family friend of my clan, and a werewolf, promised me that he and his tribe would watch over all of our homes and ensure the homes gave the impression of someone living in them—and that I could come back and visit any time. But I knew that part of my life was gone forever, and that is what saddened me.

My furniture fit perfectly in this room, and there were a few extra pieces—a grand piano, but neither Steven nor I played, an extremely old looking writing desk, and three life-size suits of armor.

One suit of armor was stationed at a door, which I believed to be the main door to my living quarters. Another suit of armor stood at the entrance of an opening on the right side of the fireplace, and the third suit of armor stood at an opening on the left.

The fireplace was inset into the wall, which protected it from the small waterfall that cascaded down the front of the fireplace. I thought that an interesting mix of fire and water.

Our grandfather clock stood in one corner of the room, and one wall, lined with shelves, held all of our statues, trinkets, and of course, books. I quickly searched the shelves and was relieved to see the bronzed-hand that held my crystal ball placed next to the unmarked book that was so terribly valuable to me.

Well, Steven said as he wrapped his arm around my waist. You’re home and you’re safe. And the best part is, he pulled me around in front of him, and I raised my arms up and placed them around his neck. You can stay by yourself during the day. Stanley won’t have security inside with you anymore as long as you are in the castle.

I won’t know how to act, I said and playfully kissed him. A scent of food caught my attention. I pulled away from our kiss, which took him by surprise, and asked, Do you smell bacon?

He looked toward one of the dark hallways a suit of armor protected and inhaled. Yeah, and blueberry muffins.

Blueberry muffins? I don’t—

And French toast, he added as he looked at me. I didn’t smell what he smelled, and when he saw my puzzled look, he smiled and said, Trust me. He took my hand and headed toward the hallway off to the right of the fireplace.

As we passed the suit of armor that stood guard at the entrance of the hall, its arm moved from its side, motioning us to proceed. Steven acted as if that were an everyday occurrence, but I couldn’t help but stare at the armor. It tipped its helmeted-head as I passed, then stood straight and alert.

I wasn’t paying attention to Steven, so I didn’t realize he had stopped walking and I bumped into him.

Sorry, but that armor thing— I said, then stopped speaking as I gazed upon the long pine table. A long, raised, metal platform that held large platters piled high with French toast, bacon, and scrabble eggs were placed down the middle of the table. Tiny candles were directly under each platter to help keep the food warm. The blueberry muffins, which I was now able to smell, filled the room with their enticing aroma. Orange juice, coffee, and the distinctive beverage all vampires need to maintain their life—their drink as I had dubbed it—was in pitchers. The table was set for eleven with one highchair. My stomach’s growl told me I was hungry.

Steven let out a low whistle.

Goodness, I exclaimed. Who made all of this?

I did, said a small voice rising up from the floor. I looked down and saw a little castle gnome coming toward us. I recognized her as being a castle gnome after seeing Jim, my sister Tess’s castle gnome. She was a plump little woman—she couldn’t have been more than a foot tall. She wore a blue and white-checkered dress with a white apron that she was wiping her hands with, and red tennis shoes. Her hair was braided into one braid that rested over her shoulder.

After seeing her height, then looking back at the table and seeing all the large platters and plates, I found it hard to believe she could possibly be responsible for all of it, so I, of course, had to ask.

How did you manage all of this? I asked with wonder in my voice.

Steven chuckled and mumbled an Oh God.

Chosen One, she replied in a chastising, motherly tone. I’m a gnome, specifically, your resident gnome, handpicked by the castle to serve you.

The castle handpicked you? I questioned.

I looked at all the platters of food again, then down to her, trying to figure out how she, in all of her twelve inches, managed this. She seemed to know my thoughts as she smiled and gave a knowing nod.

Gnomes are the opposite of giants. Giants shrink to accommodate their surroundings, and gnomes can grow to accommodate theirs. Normally, if you were living anywhere but inside this castle, I could use my magic to aid me in my cooking, but I can’t do that in here. The castle allows me access to the outside, where I can grow taller, if you will, then I come back in to complete my task. When my job is done, I step outside and revert to my normal size.

Seems like an awful lot of trouble.

Oh, it would be if the castle didn’t accommodate. It allows me quick access outside my kitchen walls. As I said, the castle selected me. I think there were hundreds of gnomes that wanted to serve you, but, she paused and beamed a bright smile, the walls wouldn’t allow any of them passage, except me! I’m sorry I didn’t meet you when you arrived, but the timer on the oven was about to go off and I didn’t want the muffins to burn. I’m aware of how much you like blueberry muffins and I wanted them perfect. Everyone should be here soon.

Everyone?

Yes. Mr. Bradley said he would like all of your clan present for breakfast upon your return.

I was actually glad they were coming, as I did miss them even though we’d only been gone for a few days. I think Steven was right, the more I lived this life the more I would want my family near. It wasn’t the same feeling I’d felt growing up as a human. As humans, you missed family after not seeing them over time, but to a magical, time is irrelevant.

Your sisters would like to meet with you at eleven. Let’s see, Maggie, she held her finger up as she thought. Yes, it was Maggie; anyway, she said you are to go to Discussion Room #1 on the first floor. Now, I have to get busy and clean the kitchen. Your bedroom suite is just down that hall, she said as she began walking back to her kitchen.

Wait a minute, wait a minute, I called after her. Do you have a name?

Oh that’s the best part, she exclaimed as she spun around to face me, clasping her hands in front of her and standing attentively. What would you like to call me? Hortense said you named her Aunt Beth. What would you like to name me?

A bit taken aback by her question, I asked, Well, don’t you have a name?

Yes…I do, but Hortense truly does like that you named her Aunt Beth. So, I thought—

Steven nudged me and said, How about Aunt Margaret? I looked at him and then at her. Come on, he said, she really wants you to give her a name, and she looks like a Margaret.

She looks more like a munchkin from The Wizard of Oz, I said.

Oh, I do love that movie, she said as she clapped her hands together.

Her clothes did resemble the main character of that movie, so with my why not? What could it hurt? thought, I said, Very well, I’ll call you Dorothy.

Oh, she said, just a little hesitantly.

You don’t like the name?

Oh…it’s not that…it’s just, well, that’s my real name.

I smiled. Well, it fits you…and I like it.

She beamed.

Chapter 3

As Steven and I walked back into the living room, there was a knock on the door, and I sat in my chair before Steven could tell me that he’d answer the door.

What’s the matter? he asked with a confused look on his face. I looked at him with just as much confusion. Aren’t you going to answer the door? he grinningly asked.

I perked up. You mean, I paused as the knock sounded again. I can— I paused again as he nodded.

Excitedly, I got out of my chair, kissed him on the cheek, and ran to the door. You would think the simple act of answering a door wouldn’t bring a smile to your face, but you’d be wrong, because I had the biggest smile on my lips as I opened that door without a caring thought as to who was on the other side.

Growing up, when I’d known nothing about a magical realm, or the fact that I had a death price on my head from Esmeralda, I was never allowed to open the door for anyone, not even family. I’d blown it off to over-protective parents, and played along to keep the peace. But even after I’d learned about the magical realm and all the dangers that faced me, opening a door to a visitor had still been off limits to me. Oh, I tried—believe me I tried, but my clan and Stanley had always been one step ahead of me. Most of the time my clan, my family, or Stanley and his men would appear in my home. The spells they had in place gave them entry while it kept all my enemies out, but inside the walls of the castle and the Council buildings, they couldn’t use their magic to appear in my residence. They couldn’t do any magic whatsoever in this building or the Council building—no one could, not even my sisters—just me. After I cross, then my sisters will be able to do magic inside the two buildings, but for now, I had the advantage, and as I opened that door, I felt all my freedoms returning.

Bradley stood on the other side, smiling that crooked grin of his. I couldn’t contain the happiness I felt at seeing him. He picked me up in his arms and swung me around, and I gave him his morning kiss.

Looks like someone got her rest, he teased as he entered, closing the door with his foot.

It just dawned on her that we won’t be hovering while she’s inside these walls, Steven said.

Ah, Bradley said, then gave me another kiss as he set me down.

A knock sounded again, and I quickly said, I’ll get it.

I heard Steven say, Eventually, she’ll get tired of it.

***

With all my clan seated around the table, everything was perfect. There was not one chair left for Madalyn and from all the gaiety everyone was showing, she wasn’t missed either.

I could feel the energy surrounding my clan; it was alive with all their excitement. Madalyn, in all her hate, had taken her toll on my family. She had successfully infiltrated our clan from the beginning, and the evil that was in her soul had been a heavy presence within our group. The evil that surrounded her was what had brought our moods down a notch. My clan never knew it was her dark energy that made them tense; we always attributed it to the dangers that surrounded me. No one could see the energy-streams of hate that surrounded her words, and for that matter neither could I, until Tess taught me how to see those specific streams of energy that surround words. Now, going forward, I will know my enemies.

I sat between Steven and Bradley. Sandy was next to Steven, with Rick at the end of the table. Gina sat next to Bradley with the highchair that held baby Todd between her and Billy, who sat at the other end of the table, and Gary, my fifth special man sat directly across from me. The rest of my clan, Andrew and his mate Kristen, Dirk, and Billy’s two sons, little Timmy and Frankie, were sitting on that side as well.

Bradley tapped his fork against the crystal goblet that held his drink, drawing our attention to him. He set his fork down, raised his goblet in the air, as did Sandy, Steven, Billy, Andrew, Kristen, and Dirk. Gina, Gary, and the kids and I, raised our goblets filled with orange juice as he made his toast.

We have waited a long time for this day. Our clan is growing and will grow even more next month after the gathering. Our Chosen One is safe and well. We must stay vigilant as our enemies never tire and we must not forget our pledge to seek vengeance on the ones who did serious damage to our clan, and to the Halsing clan. Their sentence must be swift.

With toasts over and cheers given, we got down to the business of getting back to normal.

Bill, Steven, and I are meeting with the Halsings later this morning, Rick said. Now that Sylvia and Madalyn have joined with a demon, it’s going to make this a little more sporting.

Not to mention more dangerous, I said as I took a drink of coffee and looked at him over the rim of my cup. He smiled and winked at me. I crept into his thoughts for a private moment as I still listened to the others discussing the dangers. I have missed your smile, Richard.

He took a bite of his biscuit. Just my smile Aubrey? his thoughts teased.

I took another sip of my coffee. Well that, among other things, my thoughts teased back. Suffice it to say, I have missed you. I let my mind’s energy stroke his, and as I saw him place his elbow on the table and slyly cover his mouth with his hand to hide his smile at my tickle, I crept out of his mind and rejoined the conversation.

It’s more dangerous to allow them to live, Steven said as he helped himself to the French toast.

I know, but until I cross and have all the powers needed, I don’t know what you can do to them. It took everything I had to throw that fireball at Esmeralda, and it didn’t even faze that blasted dragon that flew in its path. There are no spells my sisters or I can give you to destroy them, and I’m afraid more will be harmed if you try.

If we don’t try something, more will be harmed either way, Half Pint. But we can do our part to protect as many as possible until you have crossed, Billy said.

I hear congratulations are in order, Bradley said, changing our topic of discussion. He looked across the table at Kristen, then looked down the table at Sandy.

I followed his gaze. Really, what’s happened?

He took a drink of coffee, then set the cup back onto its saucer as he said, Kristen has left Stanley’s employment and has taken the post as the first grade teacher of our new school, and Sandy is going to star in a cooking show on TV.

That’s fantastic! I exclaimed.

I love to cook, Sandy said. When we were talking about all the different things needed to keep our community growing, your mother suggested we have our own TV station. One thing led to another, and the cooking show was born. I can’t wait!

So this isn’t a human show? I asked.

Nope, all magical recipes. Gina and I have started working on a cookbook we intend to publish. With you safely inside the castle we have more time on our hands, and idle hands are the Devil’s workshop, my mother always said. So, we are going to be a contributing factor to our community.

I never thought about magicals needing recipes, I said.

All recipes need the basics. Just because we can perform magic, doesn’t mean you pull things out of thin air. You still have to know the right amount of ingredients to use and the right time to add them. There is just as much skill needed to make the perfect roast as a magical as there is as a human, Gina replied.

I have sooo much to learn. I looked at Kristen. When did you know you wanted to be a teacher?

I was a teacher when I was human. But after I turned, being a teacher seemed so mundane. Then I met Andrew, and after Stanley recruited him I thought that’s what I wanted to do, too. I was never actually very good at sitting still and watching people—that bored me; I was better at teaching techniques. Stan saw that, and after he placed me in a trainer’s position, I was much happier. But after being with the boys while Gina stayed with Bill as he recuperated, I knew I honestly wanted to get back into teaching kids.

Really? Billy asked. And my little men didn’t dissuade you at all, huh? He laughed as he ruffled Frankie’s hair.

Not in the least. I can’t wait to get started.

I can, little Timmy grumbled. I’m not ready for school yet.

Oh Timmy, you are going to learn so much in my classes. ‘Beginners Magic 101’ is top on my list.

Timmy’s eyes widened with delight, and we all laughed.

Maybe Bree should attend your class, Billy joked.

Funny, real funny, I jabbed.

She’ll be getting her own training, Gary said. I feel sorry for you too, Squirt. With Stan’s classroom manners, I’m afraid you’re in for some rough lessons. He’s a hard one.

Stanley is Billy’s younger brother, and he is also in charge of my security. He is CEO and president of one of the largest international security companies on the planet. His teams are in the human and magical realms, so it only made sense that he be in charge of my security.

Gary’s comment sent our conversation in another direction as Andrew, Gary, Dirk, and Kristen amused us all with stories of assignments Stanley had sent them on in their careers with the agency. Our morning time flew by, figuratively not literally, and before I knew it, we were all making our plans for the day.

So Bree, what’s on the table for you today? Bradley asked. Ready to get back into the swing of things?

Yes. I can’t wait to see the look on Esmeralda’s face when she sees me. Does anyone know where she’s moved to? Even though I was thrilled the castle had removed her from living under the same roof as me, I didn’t want to admit I was concerned about not knowing where she was living. Tess had said she threw a royal fit after the castle locked her out of her room and had deposited all of her belongings in her Council office. I knew the castle did that for me so I’d move here, but I couldn’t help but worry about all the extra work we’d have to do now to know her whereabouts.

Not a clue, Gary said. But we’re working on the problem, so don’t worry. We’ll know where she’s staying soon enough. What time do you want to go to the office?

Maybe around ten. I want to explore my new home a little. You know, get comfortable.

Okay, I’ll be back at ten, Gary said. I have a meeting with Stan to go over your security when you go outside.

I tried to tell him that I would be just as protected outside these walls as I was inside as long as I stayed within the valley, but none of them could see how that could be, so evidently, I would still have a bodyguard when I was outside.

Sandy and Gina said they would be spending their day deciding on the clothes Sandy would wear for her appearance on TV and what recipes she would start with, plus they needed to decide on all the utensils they would need to have on hand, as several suppliers were bidding on having their brands used on the show.

Kristen wanted to spend time gathering all the supplies she wanted in her classroom. Dirk and Andrew had to go back to their duties at the Council Building. Billy, Rick, and Steven wanted to go look at their new offices, and Bradley needed to order more medical equipment, so that left me to do what I wanted—as long as I stayed inside the castle—Steven mentioned again with his kiss goodbye.

Chapter 4

After everyone left, the room felt so empty and quiet, I actually didn’t know what to do with myself. Even though I’d only known about this realm for a couple of months, I hadn’t actually spent much time by myself.

As the dangers to me had progressed, Stanley’s security teams had always been around, and after Gary had become my permanent bodyguard and the fifth member of my special seven, he had generally always been with me. When he couldn’t be, Sam, another member of Stanley’s team, would be with me, so my days had always been full of people. But now that I was finally able to act like a normal person and be left alone, I honestly didn’t know what I wanted to do. But I did know one thing—I wasn’t going to take a nap—even if my body was leaning in that direction.

I was just about to go on the hunt for Dorothy when she ran out of the dining room carrying a coffee mug and a little brown bag.

Where are you going? I asked with just a little don’t leave plea in my tone.

Break time, she said. And as she neared the door of my residence, it opened.

Really?

Oh my, yes. All the castle gnomes meet for our breaks. I’ll be back, she said. She raced into the hall and was out of sight before the door even closed.

Great, I mumbled as I plopped down in a chair and began looking around the room. Even though it was warm and comfortable, something was missing. Then it dawned on me—that something that was missing was sound. I couldn’t hear the birds as I had back in Texas. I couldn’t see the trees move with the wind as I sat in my family room and looked outside. There were no windows at all to allow the outside in.

Too quiet. I got up and went toward the kitchen. The suit of armor spread its arm as I passed and dipped its helmet-head again, and this time I gave a small bow of my head in reply.

The walls in the kitchen were just the same as the living room—all stone. Dorothy had left a plate of cookies on the side table, so I took one and poured myself a cup of coffee, then stood at the sink and faced the stone wall.

I wish there was a window there. I’d like to look outside to see what’s going on.

After I spoke, a large bay window appeared and sunlight flooded the kitchen, so much so that I had to cover my eyes.

Yikes! I yelled as I shielded my eyes, and the light slowly dimmed to a manageable level. Wow! I marveled at what the castle had done. That was entirely too cool.

As I looked out the window, I found myself straining to see in the distance. Once again, the castle came to my aid and adjusted the view, and I was able to see everything as if I were watching a television. I could clearly see the smoke rising from homes that I’d seen when Steven and I had arrived on the parapet this morning. My view was perfect and I was satisfied, but then my view began scanning to the right, and I was able to see other things. Ooh! I giggled, I can’t believe it! This is way too cool!

When my viewing window stopped moving, I saw several men standing in a clearing. I watched a man place a brick where another man had pointed. Then they stood back, and to my amazement, another brick magically appeared next to that one, then another, and another. After the magic had laid the first row, all the men gathered around one man who was holding up a large sheet of paper in front of him.

Those must be the building plans, I said as I absentmindedly raised the coffee cup to my lips.

I watched another man walk down the long row of bricks. He turned around and yelled something to those who were standing around looking over the papers. Then the man that had yelled picked up a bucket and trowel appeared in his free hand. He dipped the trowel into the bucket, and when he brought the trowel out, he slapped some mortar on a brick, and the magic began. Other bricks started moving upward with metal rods placed through them, and before I knew it an entire building, complete with windows and doors, had appeared.

Wow! That was fast.

My viewing window began to move again and stopped when the town came into view. Cobblestone streets with old-fashioned lamp poles and buildings that melded into the forested landscape drew the picture of an old town. It truly looked as if the town had always been there. The buildings looked old, and the cobblestones looked worn. Then a thought hit me.

Time for a little redecorating of my own.

I went from the kitchen to our bedroom, and just like all the other rooms, the walls were stone with no windows or doors to the outside. I stood in the sitting area of the bedroom, faced the wall and said, I’d like a window here please—with a view of the mountains. A large window with tinted glass appeared. Satisfied with my window placement, I asked, Could I hear some soft music? A light melody began to play through unseen speakers.

Content with my small changes, I walked back into the living room to wait for Gary when I heard my cell phone ring. Not knowing exactly where my cell phone was, I followed the sound to the old writer’s desk, where I found it under a pile of papers. On the display screen was Rick’s picture. I grabbed the phone, pressed the answer-call button, and as I consciously calmed my excitement at hearing his voice, I lifted the phone to my ear and said, Hello, handsome. My Richard was my Hercules, he was my soldier, my protector, and he was one of my special men.

Aubrey. His low, seductive tone warmed my entire being. What are you up to, beautiful?

Nothing much, I’m just getting familiar with my surroundings. What are you up to?

Missing you.

Oh Richard, I miss you too.

Don’t go getting formal on me, missy. I don’t want formal from you, I want you the way you are—innocent.

I laughed. Oh, I am far from innocent now, Richard.

Ah, so are you telling me that I’m going to be with an experienced woman this weekend? he asked in a low, flirtatious voice.

I began twisting a strand of my hair as my smiled broadened with my flirt. Experienced enough, I’m sure, to keep you satisfied, sir.

I cannot wait for Friday so I can taste your kisses again.

We’ll see each other Tuesday for lunch, I reminded him.

Ah, no, I’m afraid not darling.

Why? I pouted.

It will make Friday that much more special.

Richard, stop worrying. I am ready, you’ll see.

One more thing before I hang up.

What’s that? I softly asked.

Make sure you leave your cell phone at home when we go Friday. I laughed and so did he, and then I heard the dial tone.

I stuffed my cell phone in my pocket, went to the sofa, sat down, and was just about to give in to my need for rest when the wall by the piano opened.

I didn’t do that, I said a little nervously, and the wall began to close. No, wait! I hollered. The opening widened again. I remained seated on the sofa, and stared at the wall. I did say I wanted to explore. The wall started to close again. Okay, okay! I’m up! I said as I scrambled to a standing position. I’m just not all that used to walls opening, if you know what I mean, I said as I walked toward it. I peered into the darkness as goosebumps rose on my arms, and I felt a chill of excitement with the knowledge that my magical castle was going to show me its secrets. I whispered into the void, Well, I may not be used to walls opening…but I’ll get used to it. I stepped, with caution, through the opening. Okay, I’m here. Now show me. As the wall closed behind me, my anticipation grew.

An orb appeared in front of me, giving off enough light for me to see my way, and it started moving down the hall. The passage was quiet, and looked as if it hadn’t been disturbed for quite some time. Sentinels made of clay stood along the walls. Hardwood chairs, piled with dust, were spaced evenly along the sides of the walls. Torches along the walls lit as I neared them, and I sensed I was going down as I followed the hallway, until I came to a door.

It was a large, wide oak door with heavy, rusted locks. Thick cobwebs coated the door, making it hard to see the grain of the wood. I had no key to unlock the multitude of locks, and from the looks of them, I wasn’t sure a key would even work. Then I remembered the way I had opened the cell doors that held Richard and Thomas captive, and in a whispered tone, said, Open, please.

The sound of moans, creaks, and groans filled the quiet as the rusted locks’ tumblers turned inside their iron homes, then fell open. I touched the wrought iron handle’s latch, and with effortless energy, opened the door to the room it protected.

The orb floated in ahead of me and I watched as it circled the room. Torches sparked to life as the orb passed them, and as the light filled the room, I saw baskets filled with gold, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds stacked against the back wall. Several baskets piled high with gold coins were along another wall. A desk, with stacks of books, papers, and cabinets that held more papers and books, was along another wall. An iron fence surrounding an enormous pile of rocks was in the center of the room.

I didn’t pay any attention to the mountainous treasures the room held; I was curious about the rocks. I walked along the fence staring at them. As far as I could tell there wasn’t anything noteworthy about them, and yet, the fence protected them.

I wonder what these are for? I started to reach for one, but paused as the chair at the old writing desk began to pull away from the desk. Ookkaayy, you want me over there.

I walked over to the desk and saw a leather-book sitting on top of the writing surface. The book opened, and the pages turned until it came to what it wanted to show me.

I eased myself onto the seat of the chair, being cautious of the age of the wood, but the chair felt sturdy beneath me. I placed my elbows on the desk and began studying the page. Instead of words I recognized, I saw symbols and drawings. I started to sit back in my seat when the symbols and drawings began to change into something I could read. Doing my best to contain my giddy enthusiasm, I sat forward again and began reading aloud.

These you see protected, are the cornerstones of creation, a secret now known to one, Aubrey Marie Campbell, and shall always be.

My head jerked toward the stones. You know me? I asked surprisingly. Well okay, that makes sense. The castle knows me. I turned back to the book and continued reading.

Where they lie, the magic is mute except for the one as it shall always be."

My eyes narrowed on the words as a thought came to me. Then if the magic will always be mute except for me, how will my sisters aid me?

I watched the words form again. All will be known upon your crossing.

I frowned. And if I don’t cross—then all is lost as it was written so very long ago.

The words formed again. That is correct. And then the book closed.

I slumped back in my seat. So this really is all on me. How am I going to do all of this—be on the Council, and find the demons, and destroy the dragons, and learn my magic? Okay, I can’t do everything all at once. Something’s going to have to give, but what? Everything I have to do is important— I paused as the door to the room opened, and I heard a small clock chime. I looked at my watch, and when I saw I’d spent an hour in this room I was more amazed than surprised. I sighed heavily as I knew Gary would be arriving at my door any minute and I couldn’t spend any more time here. I’ll just have to figure it out.

When I got up from the desk, the torches began to dim, and the orb was waiting for me at the doorway. After I had stepped outside the room, it fell into darkness. I closed the door, the locks immediately re-locked themselves, and the cobwebs once again covered the wood.

As I walked up the passageway, I began to prioritize my tasks. I knew I wasn’t in any position to destroy the dragons, but I was capable of destroying the demons. I’d be even more capable if my sisters’ powers were strengthened, but since that wasn’t going to happen until I crossed, there was no sense dwelling on it. We were just going to have to do our best with what we had. I’ll study my book, and crystal gaze, and hope that gives me some insight. I’ve got my dream visions—they’ve always aided me before, no reason why that shouldn’t continue—and I’ll learn my magic as best I can. And we’ll try to stay one step ahead of Esmeralda.

Before I stepped into my living room, I turned and looked back down the dark passageway. I drew a deep breath and felt the weight of my new secret press in on me with its need for my protection as well. And just as the castle protects me, I must protect it—and I will.

Chapter 5

The wall closed behind me as I entered the living room. When I turned and looked back at the wall, all was as it had appeared before my journey through it; there was no indication of there ever having been an opening. I sat in the chair while I waited for Gary to arrive and began to organize my thoughts, but before I had time to give them any serious consideration, a knock sounded at the door, and a moment later, the grandfather clock chimed the hour—ten o’clock. My planning would have to wait, as Gary had arrived.

For the short time I had known him we had become close, but it wasn’t until after my rescue last month that I knew he was one of my seven. I should have known sooner—I should have known when I saved his life after he’d saved mine when the dagger that was meant for me struck him during Thomas and Richard’s rescue. A blue haze had formed over the two of us as I had frantically worked my magic to pull the demon from his body. No haze had formed over Dirk when I’d saved him after he’d been injured during the battle at my clan’s cabin. My prophecy stated I would know my men by their hue, but I hadn’t put two and two together until recently.

Steven had been, and would always be my soul mate, my ultimate; I could never imagine my life without him, nor would I ever try. Bradley was like an old romantic love—protective and strong, yet not afraid to show his tender side. Richard was my bold, adventurous, passionate love, and Billy was my heart, my rock-solid love. Even though I felt that way about my four now, in the beginning, when I was learning about the magical realm and all I was to become, that was not the case.

When Steven had first explained to me how magicals lived, I was stunned. To give your love freely to others within your clan, or coven, or tribe—without thoughts of jealousy—was unbelievable…unthinkable, in my mind. When he told me that I would not be as fortunate as the magicals of our realm, I remembered my wide-eyed, jaw-dropping stare at him. Not because I wanted more than seven loves, but because I couldn’t grasp the thought at all. I only wanted him. He told me my prophecy allowed me only seven. I protested, I cried, I told him that he was all that I wanted and needed, but he kept telling me everything would work out.

When Billy had tried explaining things to me, it made sense for a magical, but I was human. I remembered him saying that magicals live for an eternity; their family bonds are strong, stronger than human families, and their need to love and be loved was enormously powerful, almost to the point of being painful. I remembered him telling me that my wish to have only one love for all my human life was indeed a noble ideal. But when he’d said, "Let’s face it, it doesn’t always happen that way in the human realm. But

Reviews for Chrysalis Fire & Rain

[isisunit · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I would like to thank author ML Lacey for the opportunity to read this story. Although I received the ebook for free, that in no way impacts my review.WARNING: If you haven't read the first three books in this series do not read any further, as this review inherently contains spoilers for the first three books.As Esmeralda’s fleet of dragons grows stronger and deadlier, Madalyn devises a lethal plan that strikes at the very heart of not only Bree and her clan, but of the Halsing clan as well.Bree’s powers continue to develop-but her physical strength is beginning to deteriorate, which puts her on a collision course in her battle against Esmeralda. The untimely death of her sixth, causes Bree’s men to act quickly to ensure Bree’s circle is complete and the prophecy remains true.As the threat to the realm becomes dire, the Elders break their silence and try to aid the last Chosen One on her Path. But will they be in time? Will it be enough to defeat Esmeralda? And will Bree even allow their interference?Friendship. Loyalty, and faith are tested to the brink in the fourth book of the Chrysalis Series – Fire & Rain.Picking up almost exactly where book three left off, Aubrey is still struggling to reconcile her human part with her magical part, though her struggle has finally lessened considerably. A fact which I, for one, am grateful, as I was getting tired of the repeating personal dilemmas and crises over essentially the same things. Aubrey is finally growing into the Chosen One and taking hold of her power.That's not to say that she still doesn't have the occasional relapse, but no where near as often as in the other books. This book was particularly fun because of all the new things happening, in Aubrey's life, her clan, the Castle, and even with her arch-nemesis, Esmerelda. As with the other books there are gains and losses in this installation of the tale, yet this time it seems that the gains outweigh the losses. And just when you think things are heading toward the ultimate resolution in cones a new, and very unexpected, twist. And what a twist it is. But the great thing was that Aubrey was up to the challenge and handled much more of the resolution herself. It has been such a blessing to have a vastly more mature Aubrey in this book, as I was getting tired of the fragile (and sometimes whiny) Aubrey of old.True to course, this book ended with some potentially explosive news being shared. And it looks to be promising, given that it was seemingly dismissed out of hand by all Aubrey's protectors in her clan. So much so that I fully expect to see that come back and bite them in the 'hindsight is 20/20' ass! As much as I've enjoyed this series, I find myself hoping that Aubrey finally crosses in the next book, as I feel as though that particular piece has been drawn out as long as it could be, and any longer could be detrimental to the story. But then, who knows, maybe something mind blowing will happen that allows the transition to be put off yet again and it will all work perfectly. Either way, I know that I am looking forward to reading the next installment in this series as soon as it is released!