Dangerous Realms

By Clair McIntyre

Everything that glitters isn't golden...

Lydia Halsin is tired of being known for her looks and not the smarts she truly possesses. When the opportunity for her first solo mission for Paranormal Investigations arrives, Lydia jumps at it because it will fulfill her life long goal of being the best Paranormal Investigator she can be. Unfortunately the case turns out to be a murky quagmire of traps that an evil villain has set for her in order to see her dead.

Fate works in mysterious ways...

Frey Lindgren is a powerful Norse immortal with nothing but time on his hands and grudges to bear. Especially when he sees that the man who helped his bride jilt him at the alter, living a wonderfully peaceful life. In a strange twist of fate, as Frey looks into the news more he comes across Lydia Halsin, and immediately recognizes the danger that she’s in. Far from running from it, Frey runs towards the danger, ready to take on whatever may come.

Desperate times call for desperate measures...

As Frey and Lydia work together to overcome the traps before them, more twists and turns develop, eventually leading to a huge revelation, the Ragnarok, or the apocalypse, may not be that far off after all. In a bid to save life on Earth, Frey and Lydia journey in the unknown and face the very core power of the Seven Isles of Atlantis. Though time is not on their side and the window to save life is closing fast.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Clair McIntyre
• Release date: Oct 25, 2015
• ISBN: 9781311890825

Clair McIntyre

I live in Courtice, ON, a place google can't find on the map. I spend most of my time driving those nearest and dearest, absolutely crazy, and procrastinating on numerous schemes. I also like to learn so I can often be found playing video games, reading random pages on wikipedia and watching documentaries.On a more serious note, I'm really an open book. I like to seeing the lighter side in life, and though sometimes what I write might be on the darker side, I like to think that even at the darkest point in one's lives, there's always hope.

Book preview

Book Three

By Clair McIntyre

Copy Right

Shadowy Stillness

by Clair McIntyre

Copyright 2014 Clair McIntyre

Cover Art Garth Miller

Smashwords Edition

ISBN-13:

Dedication

First and foremost I'd like to thank MJ Moore my editor for without your hard work editing none of this could have happened. To my cover artist Garth Miller, who continues to created the coolest cover art in the world . To my mum, dad, and sister Aileen who support me and continue to be my number one fans. And lastly, to all those out there who were ever bullied, remember for every bully, there is also someone in your corner waiting to be there when you need it most and this story is for you.

Prologue

I always wondered what the future would hold for me. Would I become a historian? Or an astronaut? Or maybe even the president? They were all such interesting possibilities. Though I never for one moment thought I'd end up becoming what I am nor the trials that lay ahead of me , but I'm getting a little ahead of myself here and I think it's best to start from the beginning.

I'm Lydia Gertrude Halsin, semi-retired from the super model rat race to become a leading authority on Norse mythology and Scandinavian history. Well that was the plan, but my modeling success didn't help my academic dreams . In fact it down right hindered me because most people thought I was out my pretty little mind to give up a modeling career for academics.

Though , I hadn't really wanted to be a successful model in the first place. I only started modeling as a way to overcome being painfully shy as a child though it didn't help for I still felt like a socially awkward ducking in a prestige fowl-family, so to speak. Academics were my real passion and I dreamt my expertise would benefit another goal in my life: becoming a paranormal investigator.

Again, not a career most people aspire too but it was in my blood. The Halsin family ran one of the most respected supernatural investigation agencies which aptly named Paranormal Investigations. It actually served two purposes, the first being to protect the public at large from things that go bump in the night; the second being to shield the deep, dark secrets of the magical world.

Yet, for all my grand plans, life has a way of not always working in one’s favour. For years, every time I applied to be a guest lecturer, the committee politely informed me the role had already been filled. To make matters worse, at Paranormal Investigations I held the head receptionist and PR lady roles. It galled me to no end for no one was taking me seriously not even my own family.

Determined to prove everyone wrong, I finally got my chance when I was offered a job to work a real life honest to goodness case. Then life took another bizarre left turn and it turned out to be the journey of a life time leading me to meet my polar opposite .

Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself again. A great deal happened that took me from never being able to catch a break to someone who got the chance to save the world. Here, let me tell you how that happened...

*****

Valhalla, circa 987 AD

Frey felt happy because today marked one of the greatest days of his life for he was finally marrying the woman of his dreams.

Everyone thought him crazy, especially his twin, Freya. She told him that no woman was worth the ridiculous challenges he was set to win his fiance’s hand. But then again, she was no ordinary woman; no his intended was a Valkyrie. Valkyries weren't the type to be wooed by fancy words, no they required action and he had proven himself to his intended.

Frey stood at the altar looking at Odin who gave him a strained smile. Nearly an hour passed as they waited, but then it was normal for a bride to be the last one to arrive at her own wedding. Maybe she had just gotten delayed by something like a battle, maybe?

Yeah, that had to be it, Frey thought to himself.

Whatever the case, Frey had sent Skimir, his right hand man, to figure out what was going on. In the mean time, Frey continued with happy thoughts about finally settling down. After all, he’d never lacked for choice of a bride though he never found one truly to his liking until now.

Freya said he’d been smart to be picky, after all they were immortals and it could be a long eternity if you were bound to the wrong person. Freya, herself, regretted marrying in haste to an Aesir named Oor who wandered around aimlessly all the time. To make matters worse, he strayed in other ways too, spending time with any maiden who caught his eye.

Freya had finally had enough the year before last and had gotten a divorce. Frey supported his twin in her decision. Now Freya had done the same when Frey chose his bride Gerd.

That can't be good, Freya murmured drawing Frey's attention.

What is it? He asked.

Freya sighed before she replied, Well, Skimir is back and he looks worried.

Frey felt a knot of dread build in his stomach. What happened to Gerd? Was she hurt?

Skimir seemed to confirm his suspicions with the tone of his voice alone.

My liege can we speak in private?

What's wrong? Is Gerd hurt? Was there an accident?

No my liege... it's worse. She's eloped.

Frey felt horror at the words as the crowd started to murmur at the announcement .

Surely there’s some absurd mistake, Freya stated .

I'm sorry my lady but it's true. Gerd eloped with a man called Henry Halsin and they wed last eve.

How is this possible? We were to be married today, Frey burst out as he sat down hard onto the step below Odin.

She had help. The Vampyr prince, Will Moregan, was seen by the guards of Valhalla spiriting her away. He also took your horse and sword too. I'm truly sorry my lord, Skimir murmured.

Frey seethed at the words. As if the situation wasn’t torturous enough, the Vampyr prince had added to it by taking his prized possession .

Frey summoned up another horse and without word left to find Gerd, needing to see the truth with his own eyes.

After a solid day of riding he found her in the mortal realm.

Tired beyond belief . Frey burst into the house and fixed the new couple with his stare. The man, Henry Halsin stood up immediately, ready for a fight though Gerd stopped him by laying a hand on his chest .

Frey... Gerd started as her sad eyes looked apologetic.

Frey glared at her though he felt empty inside as an odd numbness overtook him and it was like the winds came out of his sails and he was now adrift .

It's true then. You are married, he whispered .

Gerd nodded once.

You never planned to marry me at all did you? Frey asked as the anger came back slowly.

Gerd shook her head slowly.

Why! He shouted, grappling with his emotions to regain control he continued, Why didn't you just tell me honestly that you didn't want to marry me?

I didn't think you'd take no for an answer.

Frey closed his eyes for a moment before taking a step back out the broken door.

I would’ve understood if you had been honest and not set those ridiculous challenges. Though it doesn't matter anymore because you’ve made your bed Gerd and I wish you all the best, Frey cynically declaration landed like a curse .

Frey was spitting mad but refused to be the fool any longer so he walked away.

Instead, Frey went looking for a mindless fight and it wasn't that hard to find one because the world was filled with war .

Three days later Freya found her brother resting against a tree after a battle.

So, what are you going to do now? Are you planning your revenge against Gerd and this Will Moregan?

No... you know I’ve never harmed a woman and I refuse to start now. As for Will Moregan who helped her deceive me, stole my property and acted as a conduit of humiliation... he should fear my wrath. I mean that and the day he decides to marry is the day I strike, mark my words.

Part One:

A Viking We Will Go...

Chapter One: Begin Anew

"A mission, an honest to goodness real mission, I feel like giving an academy speech here because it’s such an honour." - Lydia Halsin, Chicago, Illinois.

Lydia Halsin

I sat in front of my grandfather disbelieving the report lying in front of me. Not because of some obscure information but because the report held my first honest to goodness solo mission. A shock of real excitement rippled through me but I didn't let it show because it'd be unprofessional after all.

As you see from the report, strange occurrences are happening at the upscale store Harogates, in London. The store manager wants us to investigate. This will need to be done discreetly of course, so you'll be going in undercover. Now, I know you hate being a model but it will prove very useful for this case. Keep your eyes and ears open Lydia my dear and I know with your brains you'll get to the bottom of things real soon.

I looked up at my grandfather with a smile and said, I will grandfather. I swear I won't let you down.

I know Lydia, that's why you were my first choice for this case. Now I expect you to maintain regular contact and I've booked a flight for you this evening. You'll also be staying at Raven and Phoenix Galadin's London apartment on the Thames.

Not to complain here but won't I be staying at a hotel? I asked.

Grandfather shook his head, No because after the incident last year involving your sister Meri and her husband Felix, it was decided that all our field agents are to use more secure and secluded accommodations. Currently, the normal London accommodations are in use since the Winter Solstice is nearing and paranormal activity is at it's peak, especially near Stonehenge. However, Raven Galadin, Queen of the Vampyrs, has graciously offered us use of her family's London apartment for any of our family to stay at during this time, so I called her earlier and let her know you'd be staying there.

Oh, make sense now and I'll call Raven on the way to thank her, I said standing up, holding the folder tight.

Well, good luck Lydia, and take care of yourself, Grandfather replied as he bade me farewell.

Bye grandfather. I hugged him before leaving.

Closing the office door, I turned and nearly jumped for joy . Finally I had the chance to prove myself . Seriously, it was getting to the point of ridiculousness with all the rude comments and opinions on my career choices, though this last year things had started looking up.

After my younger sister Meri married her soul mate Felix Moregan, he’d helped me land a guest lecturer spot at Oxford University on Nordic History and Mythology. After my brief circuit there, I returned home and found that, all those schools who snubbed my PHD qualifications because of my modeling career, came knocking at my door.

At first, I hadn't wanted to lecture at those schools because of how they'd treated me, but it was Meri who pointed out that I should do it at least once to show up those snobbish jerks. I must admit the vindication satisfied me but I kind of felt disappointed. Felix's got me that first guest spot, and I was grateful, but I wanted to show people I could do it on my own.

The need to prove myself stemmed from when I was a kid. School kids have a habit of being horrible and being labeled as cold, snobbish and too good for everyone didn’t help. Of course that couldn't have been farther from the truth for I was really just painfully shy and it took me ages to speak up for myself.

Being so timid had led to another misconception with in my own family. They had assumed that I was a gentle lady-like girl who needed protection... from everything. Case in point, when my brothers Aidan and Memphis joined Paranormal Investigations they instantly became field agents. My sister Meri, who wanted nothing to do with the Paranormal Investigations, still did research for grandfather from time to time. I, on the other hand was placed in charge of the reception desk at the age of fourteen and then later worked as a customer relations consultant for the firm. I absolutely hated both positions because I couldn't prove myself and though unintentional, the slight hurt nonetheless.

Well I won't be passed over ever again, I'll show everyone what a top-notch investigator I am, I determined as I held the case tightly in my hands.

*****

Frey Lindgren

I sat down heavily in a chair on front of the breakfast table and sighed. Every day seemed to be exactly the same as the last. In nearly a millennia there hadn't been anyone who truly needed the Norse deities and next to no one truly believed in us, though luckily we figured prominently in pop culture.

That being said, I was thankful our stories were colourful enough that people still retold them for if those stories were ever truly forgotten I shudder to think what would become of us, something catastrophic I'm sure.

Shrugging off my morbid thoughts of the past, I picked up one of numerous papers in front of me and flipped through to the financial pages. Once I noticed that all my investments were still thriving and relatively unchanged, I sighed again. Was I now doomed to live the ho-hum life that was the norm for the modern mortal world?

Looking for any news of excitement I picked up a tabloid-like magazine left lying upside down on the table. In actuality, it served as a newspaper for the immortal kingdoms – those of us who were left of that bi-gone era. Flipping it over as I took a sip of coffee and choked.

"Skimir!" I shouted.

Yes my lord? My faithful attendant asked appearing at once.

What the hell is this? I demanded showing him the offending article.

It's a newspaper, my lord, he stated carefully.

No, no! That's not what I mean, my ire rose as I continued, Why the hell wasn't I informed that Will Moregan got married? To a Halsin wench, no less!

Will Moregan? The paper states that his name is Felix Moregan.

"I don't care what people damn well call him; they can call him Santa Claus for all I care. Though why the hell wasn't I informed about his wedding?"

Skimir sighed this time as he said, Lady Freya swore me to silence my lord. She thought it best you not be reminded of it all.

I looked at Skimir for a long moment, counting to ten though it didn’t help.

"Freya!" I shouted.

"What?" she launched back as she appeared.

I narrowed my eyes on my twin waving the newspaper around demanding, You knew about this?

Of course I did.

This is an outrage!

Freya rolled her eyes, Simmer down, it's not as bad as you think.

Not as bad as I think? I couldn’t believe the words coming from my twin's mouth.

"It is the great insult ever! The man who stole the woman I loved and saw her wed to another has married a woman who could have descended from that union! What would you call it? Ugh, I should beat Felix to a pulp then steal his wife and see how he likes it."

Oh no you won’t, Freya declared. First of all, that’s your anger talking and you know it. After all, if you were seeking revenge Frey, you would have sought it out long ago. Not to mention, it goes against everything you are to steal a woman like a common Aesir. Besides this is old news for they've been married and soul bonded for over a year now. Though it was probably brought up because Meri, Felix's wife, is almost at the end of her pregnancy and she's expecting twins...

I was completely shocked by Freya's words. I couldn't believe Felix’s good fortune while my own had been stolen from me years ago .

I won't plot against them or do anything that would endanger a pregnant woman you have my word Freya, now please leave me alone, I said as I got up and moved to the window.

I expected Freya to stay because she hated any attempt at being ordering about but I felt her vanished. I stared out the window watching the frigid snow fall as my anger escalated and rolled through me over and over again.

I don't know where the need came from but I felt the drive to know more about their marriage. Summoning a laptop and I pulled up an internet the search browser. In my rage, I misspelled the Halsin name and search bar offered the right spelling. Clicking on the correction, the first items that came up were not what I expected. I mean I expected sites about paranormal activity and what I got was Vogue and other high end fashion magazines.

Bewildered, I clicked on a link for one of the sites and the image that popped up stunned me again.

Gerd, I breathed.

It was like a ghost from the past staring back at me. Part of me knew it wasn't really Gerd for she had died in battle shortly after she'd married though this woman looked nearly identical, only more beautiful, if that was even possible. The picture had her dressed as a swan princess, so the caption declared, which seemed to fit. Her long waist length white blonde hair fell in gentle waves as bright sea-foam green eyes glowed in their uniqueness.

Reluctantly, I tore my eyes away from the image and scanned the brief article below listed her name as Lydia Halsin, not Gerd, but that didn't faze me. In fact, it intrigued me even more.

I can't really say why I spent the rest of my day surfing the internet reading articles about her modeling career or her academic career.

Honestly, I was actually blown away when I realized that the fair Lydia, held a dual PHD in early Scandinavian History and Norse Mythology.

Kismet, I whispered with a grin.

A plan formed in my mind and although I hadn't schemed in years it felt good to know that my skills weren't that rusty.

Skimir, I called again.

He appeared again looking apprehensive as he asked, Yes my lord?

Don't look so worried. I'm fine. In fact, I'm better than fine and I need your help, old friend.

Yes, what is your will?

I need you to find the location of a woman for me but you must swear not to tell anyone.

I so swear it, Skimir said, albeit a little bit hesitantly. Likely he wondered what I was up to.

Perfect, now the woman's name is Lydia Halsin.

Skimir bowed before he disappeared. I sat back in my chair and consumed myself with reading the articles Lydia had written on Norse mythology.

Not to disappoint, Skimir returned about a quarter of hour later with results.

I have her location Lord Frey and she is heading to London for a modeling job at Harogates. According to my sources, she is currently at Chicago O'Hare International airport awaiting her flight and it leaves in two hours time.

I sat quietly debating my first move though really, I was impatient and wanted to meet her right away. It seemed bizarre to me, even then for I’d never felt this way before... not even with Gerd though I knew that I had to meet Lydia soon.

I'm going Skimir. I’ll return in a week probably, ten days at the most. If anyone is looking for me find an excuse to give them, though above all tell no one where I am. If it’s an absolute emergency you and you alone can find me in London for if this all turns out to be a lark, I'm going on vacation.

Skimir nodded before disappearing. With my mind set, I got ready to put my plans into action.

I was just about to disappear as well, when I remembered Freya. I had to let her know personally that I'd be gone for a bit.

Hello Freya? I said when I heard the phone pick up.

Frey? She asked seemingly confused that I would call her, instead of teleport to see her, though it was also likely that she hadn't expected to talk to me for the rest of the day.

Yes it's me. This whole mess is driving me crazy and I need to clear my head. I'll be alright though, I swear. I feel like a change in scenery may be the cure.

Do you want me to come with you? I’ll always be here for you , you do know that.

I inwardly winced regretting lying to Freya. Still, I didn't want her to know what I was going to do. I could already hear her in my mind, you’re acting like a lovelorn fool. You should be with someone who chases after you, not the other way around.

No, no, I’ll be back for the yuletide, I promise. Now take care of yourself and say hi to Lou for me.

Will do. Take care brother.

With that I hung up the phone. It was time to put my scheme in motion.

Chapter Two: Meeting Place

"I'm really not trying to be conceited. However, I know I'm a hot guy just by how you’re seemingly afraid to look at me. Come on... oh now look what happened. That's it! Revenge shall be mine." - Frey, Chicago, Illinois

Lydia Halsin

I sat in a crowded terminal sipping a hot latte and watching the planes take off and land. I secretly loved watching planes and it all started when I was young. Auntie Valentine, who loved to watch planes too, used to take me and my siblings and to a nearby parking garage so we could watch them. I stopped for a brief time after she died, but after a particularly horrible day as a junior in high school, I resumed my hobby.

To this day, I visited our favourite place near O'Hare International Airport at least once a week. On particularly bad days, I’d wander in and look at the flight board imagining all the different flights I could take. I know it sounds crazy but one day I planned on flying to a lot of those places. I had the money to do it now, but it was going to be my way of celebrating achieving my life’s goals.

After this first mission, I planned to fly to Cheyenne, Wyoming. Not a destination most people would have picked but I didn't care. I’d heard of a lot of cool places in Wyoming, one of the biggest being Yellowstone National Park. There was also the Devil's Tower, a large rock outcrop that took my breath away even on the computer screen . After I wanted to go to: Buffalo, Atlanta, New Orleans, Albuquerque and Portland... to start.

Ultimately the plan was to go to places I wanted to visit and not because they were cosmopolitan or trendy. I was sick of being trendy because it got me nowhere in life. In fact, it led to more headaches than anything else.

I sighed inwardly because I hated looking on the negative side of life. Despite all the bad that had come from being a top model, I had to admit to myself that a lot of good came from it too. Number one of course being that I had seen and experienced a lot more of the world than most of people my age. I had also learned to prioritize and appreciate the little things in life... like the latte I was drinking for it was nice to enjoy a hot beverage without counting how many calories it contained.

I smiled as I took another a sip just as a large jumbo took off rattling the window panes even at that distance. Someone sat down beside me and I glanced to the floor make sure my stuff hadn't fallen in the person's way.

Oh sorry, I said sheepishly when I realized my carry-on was kind of in the way.

It's okay, came the deep male murmured reply.

I looked up finally taking notice of the man beside me. He was completely smoking hot. Thick golden-blond hair brushed the edges of his broad shoulders accentuating a devil may care look about him. I'm not going to lie, he made my pulse race... but then another emotion came over me; nervousness. There was something about the way he was looking at me. It was probably due to the fact that I had yet to meet a hot guy and have the meeting go well.

I literally itched to get away from him. I subtly glance about for a way to leave without being overly impolite. I finished my drink, waited a few moments and then stood up to use the bathroom.

I stayed in bathroom longer than normal hoping that someone would take my empty seat. Walking back out into main waiting area I instantly spotted an elderly woman chatting the man's ear off. Strangely I felt like I had won some small battle between us. So I bought another hot drink and I found another spot a few seats down from the hot guy and old woman. I continued to watch the planes land as I inwardly laughed at the woman's outrageous topics of conversation. When the woman near propositioned the man, I couldn't help but text my sister Meri. After all, some stories were not meant to be kept to yourself.

*****

Frey Lindgren

Things were going downhill fast. When I sat down next to Lydia Halsin I expected her to hit on me. Okay, I realize that it's conceited to say that but I honestly don't care. I mean one of my titles is Norse God of Fertility; Fertility Gods and Goddesses were seldom not gorgeous people.

Anyway, moot point because for some bizarre reason, instead of hitting on me Lydia had up and fled. Surprised I ended up being completely waylaid by an outlandish granny. I couldn’t help but listen in horrid fascination about the comings and goings of her neighbours, the antics of her apparently well-loved but no-good son and the everyday life of her seven cats. That's right, seven cats.

To add insult to injury Lydia, now sat just a few seats down from me, though it might as well have been a chasm as I was not about escape granny's clutches any time soon. She laughed inwardly at me and I could see it from here! Then when the granny propositioned me I saw Lydia pick up her phone and send a text.

Using my supernatural powers, I caught sight of the text before she sent it. I couldn't believe that message.

Not one to be bested, I modified my original scheme. Originally, I had come only to meet and talk with Lydia. Then in a day or so I would meet up with her again in London, after I got her number here. For some strange reason she was wary of my presence and as far as I was aware she didn't know who I really was.

Well that was soon going to change because Lydia was now going to be stuck sitting beside me all the way to London. Using my magic, I added myself to all the necessary data systems.

Smiling at the granny and nodding when I apparently need to nod as I secretly watched Lydia Halsin sip another coffee and stare outside with avid interest. I looked out the same window wondering what was so fascinating, though it didn't take long for me to get it. After all, seeing planes filled with passengers defying the laws of gravity was pretty awesome, I must admit.

I distracted the granny briefly, then placed a magical compulsion on a man and his wife to sit between the granny and Lydia to continue on with the conversation without me. I winked at Lydia, who I caught looking at me. She blushed then gazed back out the window. I also stared out the same window, waiting for the inevitable boarding call and the next battle of wills.

*****

Lydia Halsin

I sat down at a window seat in first class section of the a jumbo jet . Doing up my seat belt, I pushed up my window covering to watch the comings and goings of the ground crew. Completely enthralled by what was happening outside, I didn't notice anything else until I heard the mandatory safety speech.

Sitting back, I glanced at the man beside me. It was him! My almost immediate reaction was to panic though luckily, I curbed that impulse as I just gave him a quick nod before turning to back to the window trying to: A) rationalize the situation and B) come up with a survival plan for the next eight hours or so.

Afraid of flying? He asked with a soft lilting accent.

Due to all my years studying the region, I immediately recognized his Swedish accent.

I looked my shoulder and gave him a quick smile before shaking my head no.

Have you flown to London Heathrow before? I hear it's quite a hectic airport.

I was about to nod as the stewardess came up and ask him to buckle his seat belt. Knowing that it was rude, but happy for the temporary escape, I pulled out my MP3 player and stuffed the buds in my ear. Pressing play to listen to some a record stories of my favourite Norse myths . Closing my eyes, I leaned back feeling the plane being towed out backwards as the turbines powered up.

The words soothed me as I opened my eyes just in time to watch liftoff and I continued to stare outside until we were fully in the air and bound for Heathrow.

Then I leaned back and closed my eyes again allowing the stories to become dreams.

*****

Frey Lindgren

Okay I was a mildly annoyed again that Lydia Halsin had thwarted my attempts at small talk. I had yet to hear her speak apart from 'sorry', and I really just wanted one more word. Was that so much to ask?

However, my annoyance soon disappeared when something better happened; Lydia’s head fell onto my shoulder. At first I couldn't believe it but then when I looked over and saw her blond hair, I smiled at this fortuitous turn of events.

Now, I realize it was probably just an unintentional reaction on her part but I didn't care. I had a pretty horrid day as far as I was concerned and this partly made up for it. For a moment, if I closed my eyes I could pretend this was a completely different situation. I know it was wrong, but Lydia looked a lot like Gerd and that kind of cosmic alignment just couldn’t be ignored.

A huge part of me instantly rejected that thought though, not because of the lie that I was telling myself but, more for the fact that I was doing Lydia a grave injustice. I don’t know where that thought came from either because I hardly knew Lydia... though it still made me feel uncomfortable.

A stewardess came by with a pillow and blanket for both of us, I declined both for myself but accepted them for Lydia. I gently tucking the blanket around her before placing the pillow behind her.

Looking around I noticed that everyone around me was asleep or otherwise occupied. So I stopped time for a moment as I summoned my laptop from thin air then I sent out another a small magical compulsion to everyone around me to believe that I always had it.

After opening it, I pulled up recent business reports and read them as I enjoyed the peace and quiet with Lydia quietly breathing in my ear .

*****

Lydia Halsin

I felt someone gently shake me awake. Frowning sleepily I looked up and spotted the golden man from before. I must have fallen asleep against his shoulder and I sat up immediately.

Taking out the ear buds I murmured, I'm so sorry.

It's alright, are you hungry? The stewardess is coming around with meal choices.

Still mostly asleep I managed, Yes I am.

The golden man didn't say anything for a long moment. Then he gave me a slow smile and nodded.

I looked up past him and saw the flight attendant arrive with a simple menu that offered three choices that all made my mouth water. I know it sounds bizarre to think plane food as delicious, but first class was top-notch especially on this particular airline. I picked the beef option and asked for a coke because I really wasn't up for any alcohol.

The flight attendant turned to the golden man who made his selection.

Once she left he turned back and introduced himself, I'm Frey by the way. Frey Lindgren.

Frey, like the Norse God? I asked before remembering my manners and continuing, Oh sorry, I'm Lydia, Lydia Halsin.

I held out my hand to shake his, he grasped my fingers and instead of a shake he tilted it and kissed the back of my hand.

Well met Lydia and yes, my name is like the Norse God. Though in true ancient Norse sagas Frey is actually Freyr but it didn't translate well into pop culture, I'm afraid.

True, though in those same tales Freyr is actually referred to as Yngvi-Freyr or Lord Freyr, especially since he is often associated with the Swedish royal house, I added the lesser known name to this mixed.

Inwardly, I felt myself firmly plant my foot in my mouth. After all, experience had taught me that no one ever liked to have random conversations about Norse deities and myths with a complete stranger. I expected him to change the topic or politely turn away to talk to someone else. Though instead Frey warmed to this discussion and wasn't the least bit put off by it.

You have studied Nordic mythology? Frey asked, seemingly intrigued.

Yes, I obtained my PHD in Scandinavian history and Nordic mythology about a year and a half ago, I said quietly.

Frey cocked his eyebrow. Forgive me, but you’re so young to be a doctor and that’s a rare feat, congratulations.

Thank you. I smiled.

Our meal arrived but we continued to talk about Norse mythology for a while. Frey proved to be quite knowledgeable about the subject, and for the first time I didn't become flustered when I talked with him. Over the remainder of the flight, we touched on different topics, one being planes and the other natural wonders of the world.

When the plane landed and we disembarked, I felt glad that I had a chance to get to know him. We even walked through Heathrow together, and he even went so far as to help me load my suitcases into the trunk of the taxi.

Just before I hopped into the cab, he asked for my phone number. My nerves went on high-alert again. Part of me wondered if this was a once in a lifetime experience, and another part wondered if I was messing it all up by being myself.

This is stupid, I thought.

I'll admit my self confidence wavered and it led me to a cowardly decision. In fact, I still cringe about it to this day. I gave Frey a fake phone number.

Saying a quick good bye I hopped into the taxi and gave the cabbie the address I’d been given by my grandfather. By the time we were out on the highway, I felt lower than low. I tried to rationalize it by saying it wasn't safe to give a random stranger my phone number, but it still didn't help.

I knew I had made a mistake, a big one.

Chapter Three: Game Changer

"So this how the game will be played? Well fair warning, I always play to win," -Frey Lindgren, London, England.

Frey Lindgren

I watched Lydia jump into the taxi with haste and I knew immediately that she had given me a fake number. Though in saying that, I still couldn't believe she had done it. I mean, I’d been brushed off once before but even Gerd would never have tried to give me a fake number.

At that exact moment, I wanted to call her back with my magic and demand to know the reason why. I realize that it was a bit heavy-handed but I would not be rejected this way. After all, was it really too much to ask to be rejected face to face? Why must one play games?

The action completely baffled me. I mean, Lydia acted completely fine until I asked for her number. What spooked her?

Mulling over it, I summoned a taxi and gave the driver the address to my London town home.

Still having no answers to my questions by the time I arrived ten minutes later , my anger continued to blister my subconscious. I had decided mentally write the situation off and I turned on the TV for some mindless TV watching, hoping it would distract me. Though I swear the universe mocked me because all that was on were stories about relationships. I continued to channel surf for a few more hours before my annoyance grew to where I couldn't find anything to match my mood.

Finally, I turned the damn thing off and rested my head listening to the eerie silence around me and I hated it because it reminded me of something someone had said to me a long time ago.

"You are a shadow of your former self Freyr. You're not even worth killing because no one will mourn you."

Screw that! I thought as I jumped up from the couch.

I was not one to take anything lying down and what had happened with Lydia wasn't going to stop me from living my life. So what, Lydia apparently didn't want me, there were plenty of people out there that did and I was going to party with them tonight.

Liking that idea more and more, I mentally planned to visit the best club in town and party until dawn.

*****

Lydia Halsin

I got out of the taxi and looked at the stunning building in front of me. It was a tall old-world brick building with beautiful glass windows, and a view of the Thames River.

I double checked the address to make sure I was at the right place before I walked up and rang the doorbell.

Hello, how can I help you? A familiar voice asked through the intercom.

Hi, I'm Lydia Halsin. Raven Galadin said...

The door swung open and woman with jet black hair and sparkling grey eyes came bounding out to greet me and it took me a moment to realize that it was Lulu Moregan, half sister to Felix, my sister's husband.

Ah Lydia, it's so nice to see you again! Lulu cried as she hugged me.

I wasn't surprised at her enthusiastic greeting because Lulu was nothing like the other Moregans. Whereas the vast majority of her other siblings, (Felix being the only exception,) were guarded and standoffish, Lulu was not.

Hey Lulu, how are you?

Great thanks and you?

Good.

Come on in. You'll be staying in my apartment if that's okay and I live on the fourth floor, Lulu said as she grabbed my bag and inclined her head for me to follow her.

I stepped in the house and closed the door. Turning back to the main foyer I took my first good look at the interior and gawked. It looked like an elegant hotel. The main entry was painted a pale powder blue colour with white trim. A huge skylight gave the lush plants scattered around an airy, outdoors feel.

Oh wow, I murmured, You have a gorgeous home, Lulu.

Thanks, she beamed and continued, My family owns the building but mainly I'm the only who lives here. The floors are still divided up though; Wulf and his family have the ground level; Raven and Phoenix have the second floor; Conalai and Felix split the third floor, as Lenox and I share the fourth. I know it sounds strange, but I begged my siblings to have the four floor because it has the most light and it’s the best place to paint.

I nodded as I followed Lulu into an old open elevator that took us to the fourth floor. We got out . Lulu opened the door to a huge apartment, which I really wasn't expecting as she ushered me inside.

Lulu notice my astonishment.

I know it doesn't look very wide from the outside, but I'll let you in on a little secret. The four buildings that are part of this row are actually one large building. We created the facade to keep up appearance of normalcy. I know we could have one of those big fancy mansions in the heart of the city but having a huge house draws a lot of attention and we don't really need that kind of exposure. Though in saying that, we do need a big house because the space keeps my other siblings from killing each other. Now then, this your room.

Lulu opened the door to an elegantly decorate room with a four poster bed and lacy window curtains. I fell in love with it instantly because it reminded me of my room at home. I won't lie, I'm a huge fan of lace, frills and old-world charm. My brother Memphis had also jokingly said many times, that stepping foot into my room is like journeying back to Jane Austen's time.

Oh, it’s perfect, Lulu and thanks for letting me stay with you.

You're welcome Lydia. I'm so glad you're here. Oh, before I forget, the store manager of Harogates called and requested a meeting with you tonight at seven o'clock so that he could go over everything with you. Oh and if you need any help at all with this investigation don't hesitate to ask because I'm more than willing to help. Now, I'll see you tomorrow unless you need me because I'm going out tonight, sorry. Though help yourself to anything in the apartment and take care of yourself, Lydia.

Thanks once again, Lulu.

She left in a sweep of skirts that would break Scarlet O’Hara’s heart and it made me smile. Then I looked at the clock on the wall, it was only three in the afternoon. Lying down on the bed, I set my phone to go off in two hours before placed it on the delicate end table and took a nap.

At seven o'clock on the dot, I arrived at Harogates and was immediately ushered in to the general manger's office.

Ms. Halsin good evening to you. I'm Arthur Jones, the man greeted offering his hand.

I shook it but as I did a shiver raced up my spine. Something wasn't right with this man and every cell in my being screamed at me to run now and run fast.

Shaking the feeling away, I greeted the man, Hello Mr. Jones. My grandfather gave me a briefing of the anomalies but I'd like to hear more about it in your own words.

The man looked momentarily outraged that I dare question him, but it passed fairly quickly as if he reminded himself of something.

"For a few months now a number of shop girls have been disappearing. At first, we thought they couldn't handle the prestige