Surrender in the Darkness: A Fantasy Romance Anthology

By Wolf Paw Publications

Love can be found in the darkest places...

Wolf Paw Publications presents the 2015 Charity Anthology.

From the minds of 11 of today's up and coming indie authors come 10 tales of Fantasy Romance that are sure to please.

From simple boy meets girl to BDSM, there's a little something for everyone. Each story shows how the heart can make anything happen and that love can be found in the strangest of places.

Join us as we surrender in the darkness.

Proceeds from this anthology go to THE ANTI-VIOLENCE PROJECT (http://www.avp.org/)

The New York City Anti-Violence Project empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and HIV-affected communities and allies to end all forms of violence through organizing and education, and supports survivors through counseling and advocacy.

***WARNING: some of these stories are unsuitable for anyone under the age of 18. Reader discretion is advised***

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wolf Paw Publications
• Release date: Nov 24, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310674365

Wolf Paw Publications

We here at Wolf Paw Publications know that every Author, both new and old, has a story that needs to be told. That's why our staff strives to bring you the best services at competitor prices. Let us help you turn your dream into a reality!

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Copyright © 2015 by Wolf Paw Publications All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or transmitted by any electronic or mechanical means, including photocopying, information storage and retrieval systems, recording, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages in a review.

The characters and events portrayed in this book are fictitious. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead is coincidental and not intended by the author.

****SMASHWORDS EDITION****

Edited by: Author Services by Cu

Format and typesetting by C.L. Foster

Cover Art: Author Services by Cu/Wolf Paw Designs

Model: DeLonn Donovan

Note From The Publisher

Thank you for joining us for our second annual Charity Anthology. We are so very excited to bring you this year’s collection of stories.

With On Dreaded Wings, we brought you eight Urban Fae fear stories to delight and entice. This year, we bring to you ten Fantasy Romance stories.

These stories range between YA and Adult, so we don’t advise anyone under 18 years of age reading this collection.

Our charity this year is the Anti-Violence Project - http://www.avp.org/

Again, thank you for joining us for year two of our charity anthology series. We hope you enjoy the stories these talented authors has whipped up to whet your pallets.

-Sheryl D. Policar

Founder/CEO Wolf Paw Publications

September 04, 2015

Love Remembered by Angello Adrien

Atlantis, 12000 Years ago

The two lovers stand outside, looking down at the destructive chaos. One was a temple’s priest. The other was a soldier, a guard. Atlantis was falling, enveloped in flames.

Kimon...I can’t hold the shield for much longer, Pallus said softly.

Kimon looked at him. Pallus’ priestly robes were darkened from smoke, the raging flames, and falling debris. Pallus gasped as the sea rose around the city. The need to flee, rang loud in his ears; but the firm grip of kimon’s hands, gave him courage. They both looked at each other, smiling lovingly, as the dying cries of the people deafened by the roaring sounds of the sea, surrounded them. Kimon brought Pallus close to him as the shield dissolved.

We will see each other again, my love, Kimon said

Yes, we will, Pallus replied softly, his eyes shimmering with tears.

As they closed their eyes, the waters engulfed them; and Atlantis descended in the blue depths.

Alexandria, 47 B.C.

Pollyon woke up from that strange dream again; Glimpses of fire, death, and a man whose gaze was full of love. He looked around, trying to see his surroundings. Even now, he could not tolerate the light of the sun. His sight was fading; soon he would be completely blind. It’s not something he wanted, but it was the will of the gods. He got out bed, took his stick, and made way his toward the bath chamber. The water of the bath was calm, and the aroma of exotic spices filled the room.

He undressed himself and slowly got in the bath, sighing as the cool water relaxed his body. He closed his eyes, and was deep in his thoughts. A lot had been happening in the city lately. The Ptolemaic families were at war and now, Roman barbarians were in Alexandria. This Caesar! Who does think he is? A god! Wanting Egypt to pay its debts, Egypt does not own Rome anything!

Soft footsteps made him open his eyes, to find Moteb, one of the priests, walking toward the bath.

Ah! Pollyon, I thought I might find you here, he said.

Hello, Moteb.

Moteb gave him a quiet salute and quickly winced as he rubbed his hands.

Too much work last night? Pollyon asked.

Moteb nodded as he undressed himself, and step in.

They were coming by the dozen last night. So many were injured. This feud between the royals needs to end.

Don’t you mean the roman invasion needs to end?

Moteb scowled at him.

I know you don’t like them, but what can we do? It is rested on the royal family’s shoulders.

Well, Pollyon said, as he rose from the bath, let’s hope it resolves quickly.

By the time he walked back to his room, the rest priests were awake. He dressed himself in a traditional green tunic, then put on a hat; to avoid the harsh light of the sun. Grabbing his stick and lyre, he made his way outside, onto the busy streets.

Out there, nobody paid him a mind. They knew he was not a priest like the others; but he lived in the temple for a reason. Thru his music, he was able to bring some comfort to the unfortunates.

He walked by the market place, past the lighthouse of Alexandria, and the grand library, till he arrived to one of the house inn. Once inside, He asked for something to eat and drink, paid his share, even though sometimes they insisted that they wanted nothing back; he did pay them anyway, because he knew that they needed the money. He sat down and ate his fill. He liked coming there because it was quiet and away from the busy streets. Once he finished eating, he walked to center of the place, took out his lyre, and started to play.

The music that resonated, was calm like a lover’s caress, a gentle breeze that reawakened people from their depressions. Most were happy to hear music again. He merged his voice with the lyre’s sound; it was going good as more people were walking in.

Kaius was not in the best of mood that morning. Sleepless nights and disturbing dreams would be the cause of it. Could it be that all those constant battles were affecting his mind, and finding ways into his dreams? Or perhaps, it was the blasted heat in this place. He missed being away from Rome, and his family. As he stood there, his friend, Maximus, tapped him on the shoulder.

Are you feeling alright? Maximus asked him.

Yes, he lied.

You really don’t. Did you finally take my advice and have a bit of fun last night?

Kaius rolled his eyes at him. He was well aware of his friend frolicking at the local brothel, when they were off duty. Maximus teased him once about being scared of a woman’s sex. He laughed it off, for Maximus was well aware that Kaius was a Ganymede; one who was a lover of men. Even though no one seemed to have a use for male lovers at the brothel.

No, he said, pushing him away.

Then what is it that makes you looks like horse shit?

It’s this heat. By the gods, how can people here stand it?!

Easy, said Maximus. They were born here.

Kaius grunted.

Patience, my friend, we shall return to our homeland soon enough, Maximus said.

They walked by the market place, ignoring the people’s looks of contempt and hate. He didn’t blame them.

Let’s go through here, Maximus suggested.

He nodded to Maximus, and motioned for the rest of the crew to follow him. They passed by narrow street corners, where it was getting less and less crowded. They continued to walk, until they saw a line of people standing around, in such a thick mass, they couldn’t get through.

What in the name of Jupiter is going on around here? Kaius asked.

Let’s have a closer look, Maximus suggested.

As they moved closer, Kaius noticed a look of bliss and peace on their faces. He also noticed, the people were mostly the sick and the injured. Casualties of war, he thought to himself. Whatever was happening, the people were not aware of them walking by. Then, he heard it, the sound of a Lyre playing and a melodious voice. By the look of it, it was coming from inside.

Hey, you, Maximus said, gaining the attention of one of the people. Who is there? He asked one of the people standing around.

It’s him, the man answered slowly.

Maximus groaned with annoyance.

Who’s ‘him’?

The healer, the man simply replied.

Come let us go inside, Kaius suggested.

Maximus nodded his head as he motioned for the rest of the men to stand guard outside. While he and Kaius took three of them inside. As they went in, all in the occupants were by their tables or standing, gazing at the center of the stage. Kaius noticed that someone was sitting there.

Who is that? Maximus asked, as he walked toward the stranger.

Let us wait till he's done and question him. The last thing we want is to cause a scene, Kaius pointed out.

And so they waited, watching this stranger perform his song. There was something familiar about this to Kaius. As the music slowly died down, there was a round of applause and cheering. The stranger bowed down, thanking them. Kaius felt a chill flow through him. As he came into view, he didn’t know who he was, but somehow, Kaius felt a sense of recognition.

Let us go, Maximus said, as he tugged Kaius’ arm.

Kaius’ heart beat faster as he moved closer toward the stranger. Why did he feel this excitement?

Greetings, friend, Maximus said, as he gave the stranger one his charming smiles. Kaius rolled his eyes in annoyance.

The stranger looked at them, and for a quick second, Kaius could see a look of contempt; but it was gone quickly, as he gave a silent a salute and went on his way.

Wait, Kaius called out as he grabbed the lyre player’s arm. Just then, there was a flash of light, a fleeting vision. When he came back to himself, he could see that the stranger was looking at him. Did he too experience it too?

My lord, I’m sorry, Maximus said, suddenly I did not recognize your crest.

Kaius frowned at Maximus, until something gold caught his eyes. It was the golden emblem of the Priests at the temple of Alexandria. This stranger was a healer and a priest. And yet, he was so young. He cannot be much older than I am, he thinks. He let go of his arm and apologized in turn.

That’s quite alright, the priest answered, as he pick his lyre and hat Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be on my way.

Please, Kaius said softly, let us accompany you.

No, the stranger answered sharply. Kaius could not help but cringe at the coldness in his voice.

Please, Kaius insisted. No one of your status should be walking alone in these parts.

Been coming here by myself just fine so far, the young priest said, looking around There is nothing wrong. It was fine, until....

Let us go with you, Maximus said.

The young priest looked like he wanted to refuse again. But he sighed deeply, took his stick, lyre, and hat, as made his way outside. Why does he need those? Kaius asked himself.as they followed the young priest.

May I ask your name? Maximus asked.

The priest stopped in mid-step and turned around to face him. Kaius noticed that he moved his hands over his eyes to his to avoid the sunlight.

My name is Kaius, Kaius said to the priest And this is my friend, Maximus.

Whom, apparently, wanted to be a quite the charmer today. However, the young priest seemed unmoved by his charms.

My name is Pollyon, he answered bluntly.

Please to meet you, Priest Pollyon, Kaius said

Pollyon looked at him, his gazed seemed so familiar to him, but...

Maximus cleared his throat Shall we continue walking?

Yes, let’s, The priest said slowly.

As they passed the lighthouse, Kaius asked to know why the priest wanted to come into a place like this.

Because, he said, it is the right thing to do.

Do you think so? Maximus asked.

Yes, the priest answered coldly This, so called, war is ravaging the city. Innocent people are dying, resources are decreasing, peace is slowly turning into chaos, and something must be done.

Our lord, Julius Caesar, is trying to stop this, Maximus answered.

Is that so? The priest asked.

Yes, Maximus said quickly

Somehow, I doubt.

Kaius could see that Maximus was getting angry. They walked a moment longer, until they arrived at the front of the temple. As they walked up towards the steps, another priest went to them. There was a look of concern on his face. This new priest was older then Pollyon, but somehow, had retained his good, youthful look.

Pollyon, what has happened? Are you alright?

I’m quite fine, Koltech, Pollyon answered.

But those are... Koltech said.

We just wanted to give him safe passage, Kaius said suddenly; wanting to assure the other priest.

Oh…Of course thank you…For bringing him home safe...good day, centurions.

Good day, Maximus said, as he bowed.

Kaius looked at Pollyon. Their gazes met, and his heart started beating faster in his chest.

Good day, Kaius, Pollyon said to him softly.

Likewise, may the gods keep you safe.

He made his way toward the steps, with Maximus walking next to him. He could feel Pollyon’s gaze upon him.

Later on, as they stood at their assigned post, waiting for the two soldiers that would replace them for the night watch, Kaius’ thoughts were on Pollyon. How could someone infatuate him so? He was soldier, by the gods! He had to be practical and think logically; and yet, somehow, the very thought of the priest, created a pleasant sensation between his legs.

Maximus, who started chuckling, drew him out his thoughts. He looked at him with a look of annoyance.

And what, may I ask, do you found so amusing?

You, Maximus said.

What about me?

You are thinking about him.

Kaius quickly looked away.

I’m not, he answered stiffly.

Maximus busted out laughing. You are horrible liar, you know that.

I’m not!

I bet your cock is getting harder, as you think about how you want to lay with him over and over again.

Give it a rest, Maximus, Kaius groaned.

Fine. But my advice is to give in to those urges you've been having lately.

Kaius groaned. Maximus raised his hands in surrender. When the soldiers arrived, he and Maximus went to their quarters, took off their uniforms, took baths, and dressed in civilian’s clothes. They, of course, still carried their swords and daggers with them. A soldier, is still soldier, after all.

Later on, they went for something to eat. While they ate and talked with their companions, Kaius’ mind was on Pollyon. He wanted to see him again, and ask him if he too saw those visions. He wanted so much more than that, but that was as good a place as any to start.

Pollyon was standing outside on the balcony of his chambers, watching the clear midnight-blue sky, as the old and new moon merged together.

Nighttime was the only time he could see with no pain at all. The cool air caressed his naked chest. His hair loose, danced with the small breeze, as he thought about his day. That soldier, Kaius, when he touched him this morning at the inn, he saw something. Just a flash, but it felt so familiar.

Who is he? There was something familiar about him: those bright, hazel eyes, his rich, curly, dark hair, and the paleness of his skin.

With a silent curse, his grasped his lyre and headed toward the lower part of the temple. It was dark and quiet, and he liked it there. He would sit for hours playing his lyre and let his mind wander; he silently made his way downstairs and found a spot that was illuminated by the moon. He sat and began to play. Quiet footsteps interrupted him. Strange, he thought, no one usually comes at this hour.

Not wanting to be seen, he quietly moved into the shadows, waiting for the stranger to approach, one could not be too careful these days. Pollyon’s body tensed, it was the soldier, Kaius. He was out of his uniform and wearing civilian clothes. He looks so different.

Glorious Gods, from up above, he heard Kaius say, You who have guided my path for so long. Something is happening, and I pray it is something good. I felt a connection with someone.

Pollyon almost dropped his lyre on the floor. Was he talking of him?

It felt familiar, and I’m quite confident that he feels the same. Oh, Gods, answers my prayer. Let us meet again. I really wish...

Pollyon had enough.

A little late to be praying, centurion.

With lighting speed, Kaius turned around and draw his dagger

Who’s there? He said harshly, Come out now.

Pollyon slowly come out of the shadows, toward the moonlight.

Pollyon...I apologize. One can never be too sure at this time of night.

I can see that, Pollyon said. "What are you doing here?’

Kaius looked embarrassed.

I was restless and could not sleep, so...I thought of coming here to pray. What about you? What are you doing there?

I live there.

"Yes, but why here?" Kaius said, as he motioned around.

It’s quiet.

Come, walk with me, Kaius said to him.

Pollyon couldn't help feeling annoyed. Are you asking me, or ordering?

I’m merely asking.

Where is your friend?

Well, he had other matters to attend.

Very well, I shall walk with you.

"Where is your stick?’ Kaius asked

I don’t need it.

They walked for a while, both of them saying nothing, then stood for a moment, watching the moon travel across the sky.

Who are you? Kaius asked him.

Pollyon looked at him with confusion.

It seems ever since I saw you, I felt that I have met you somewhere before.

Pollyon said nothing, but his thoughts were rushing.

You probably think that I’m insane, Kaius murmured to himself.

No, you are not, Pollyon said softly

Kaius looked at him

..I, also, felt it...today, all my thoughts were of you. I don’t know why.

When I grabbed your arm earlier, Kaius said softly, ...Did you see anything?

Pollyon’s heart started beating fast. Kaius’ eyes glittered in the torch light, his face sharp, looking so strong. He wanted to rest his palm there.

"Yes, I did,’ he heard himself say softly, he watched Kaius let out a breath.

What did you see? Kaius asked him.

...Flash of light...

Images that make no sense at all, yet felt familiar? Kaius finished for him.

Yes. What does that mean? Pollyon asked.

I don’t know, Kaius admitted.

Then, Kaius slowly reach out his fingers slowly, caressing Pollyon’s hair. Pollyon, in turn, reached out and place his palm on the other side of Kaius’ face.

Pollyon, he heard Kaius said.

Yes? He answered softly.

May I kiss you?

Oh yes! Yes, Pollyon thought silently.

He felt the fire of Kaius’ lips. He brought himself closer to him, their bodies merging beneath the pale moonlight. Kaius’ scent was so intoxicating. He felt a deep longing like he had never felt before. As the kiss deepened, and their passions arose, thoughts began to surface in his mind; deeper longings, and long forgotten names.

By the gods! Pollyon cried out, breaking off the kiss, unable to tolerate the sensations any longer. Kimon! My Kimon!

Pallus, Kaius said, as an automatic response, his voice breathy and smooth.

They both looked at each other; as recognition appeared on both of their faces.

What was happening? Those names, they sounded so foreign, but also familiar.

"I remember, your name is... was Kimon," Pollyon answered softly, as he touched his face. He watched as Kaius trembled under his touch.

And yours was...Pallus. My love, Kaius said, through tears. Kaius started to laugh, it was so out of place, that Pollyon joined him.

Out of the blue, there was a loud bang, which made the very air tremble. Then, they smelled it. The scent of smoke. Something was burning. Pollyon felt a sudden fright. He looked over and he could see that Kaius was afraid also.

Come, he said to Kaius."

They moved toward a nearby street. People were running and screaming. Kaius grabbed a random person off the street and asked what was happening.

It’s in flames, the man said in despair

What’s in flames?

The great library of Alexandria is in flames!

By the gods! Pollyon said, and started running.

"Where are you going?’ Kaius asked as he followed.

I have to do something, Pollyon said with distress

What do you mean?

There are people in there. Not to mention the precious scrolls, if we don't do something, it will all be loss.

As Kaius ran beside Pollyon, his thoughts were a turbulent flood. Something powerful had happened; but, now there was a crisis, the library was on fire and Pollyon-or was it Pallus- was in distress about it.

Whatever was happening, it was bad. If the library happened to be on fire, well, there can be only one reason for this. A battle was around. He hoped Maximus was alright.

As they arrived, he heard Pollyon let out a curse. The burning scent was suffocating. The smell of burnt flesh, of burning cloths, and of smoldering paper, mixed with the scent of fear. All around them, people were running and screaming.

Come, let us go in, Pollyon urged, as he ran toward the entrance room.

Wait, Kaius called out, even as he followed him through the front gates. Suddenly, someone called his name, and when he turned around, he saw Maximus. As he stood there, he knew whatever decision he made, would change his life forever. And he knew what decision he had to make.

He said a silent goodbye to Maximus, and ran inside.

Pollyon! He called out, as he ran in the flaming hallway, dodging the falling debris.

Here! He heard Pollyon answer.

He turned to his left, and saw that Pollyon was trying to get an elderly man out from under the debris

Help me! It is heavy.

Kaius ran to him and helped push over the falling stone. The man got out almost unscathed.

Can you walk? Kaius asked him

Yes, the man managed to say.

Pollyon urged him to go. As they were running, Kaius felt something push him down, and felt such pain that it made him cried out. One of the columns had crushed his legs; he felt that his body was being torn apart by the pain. Pollyon was struggling to move it.

Go! He said to him.

I’m not leaving you! Pollyon said sharply.

There is no use, my legs are broken! He cried out.

Then, I’ll drag you out!

Kaius looked around him. The flames were getting closer, and soon it would be all over.

Go, he said again, as he pushed him away

No, Pollyon refused, as he brought himself closer to him.

Go… Kaius said miserably At least one of will survive and remember.

Pollyon shook his head.

I can’t leave you, Kimon.

Kaius said nothing, knowing that the decision had been made. He lay in Pollyon’s arms. Pollyon was looking serenely at him. His body felt cold. There was a roaring sound. The fire got brighter and brighter, as the walls of flame were coming toward them.

To the next life, Kaius said.

To the next, repeated Pollyon.

They both closed their eyes as the raging fire consumed them in a painless death.

When Maximus finally went inside the badly burnt temple, he found some survivors. But none were his dear friend. He looked around between the fallen. But none were recognizable...all the bodies were burnt to ashes.

Philadelphia, present day

Professor Simon Kale was walking leisurely in the university’s courtyard. The morning was quiet; the students were out for the day. The school was open only for the staff. His cane made a loud clicking noise on the stone. He laughed slowly to himself due to the fact that at thirty two, he needed a cane to walk.

Once he came inside, he took the elevator and made his way to the fifth floor. The history department. As a professor of ancient Hellenistic history, his office was, well, a complete mess. Books were laying around, documents were scattered, and nothing was in any kind of order. Thank god, his office was a large one.

Good morning, Martha, he called out to his secretary, who was typing furiously on her computer. He looked ahead, and noticed his office door was open. Surely, he locked it; only he has access to the keys.

Martha? He called out.

Yes, Mr. Kale, she said raising her head slowly.

He pointed toward the door.

She rolled her eyes at him.

"What?’ Simon said.

Did you forget again? You left it unlocked, remember.

I would remember if I did that.

Well, you did, she said. "So that he could find his way in."

Now, he was confused. I don’t let anyone in my office, unless I’m here. Do you know what the students could do in there?

You do know you have appointment, right?

Simon looked at her like she sprouted two heads.

Dear God, Martha said with annoyance Just go in; he is waiting for you.

Why do I let you speak to me that way? He murmured.

Because I watch out for you; now go. She pointed to the door.

He smiled as he headed inside. The smell of clean cologne