Awakened: Cursed Magic Series, #2

By Casey Odell

After escaping from the elves and the General, Claire is on the run again with the last person she'd thought she'd end up with— Farron. Shadowy forces are nipping at their heels, and soon they are attacked. But they have bigger worries. An old friend of Farron's shows up: a beautiful woman with a mark shockingly similar to her own.

As it turns out, she is not alone.

And the new woman isn't exactly on their side. Claire is kidnapped and lands in the middle of Farron's biggest secret of all. Once again she is a prisoner and the people that surround her want to use her and her powers, people that she doesn't have the option of refusing. The wolves are circling, but to pick a side means giving up everything she holds dear.

Book two of the Cursed Magic Series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Casey Odell
• Release date: Jul 3, 2013
• ISBN: 9781516364626

Casey Odell

Hello all! I may be young, but I have been making up stories all of my life, so I guess it's time I started to share them with the world. Born and raised in Florida since 1988. I may be southern, but I'm not a Cracker! 'Cursed' is my first real book, and definitely not the last!

Book preview

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Y ou have a mother? Claire feigned an amused shock, though a part of her really was. And slightly disappointed. Yet another tale had been debunked. Elves were the children of the forest, she’d always heard. One of and with the trees. The fact that they actually had families, who knew?

"Yes, Claire, even I have a mother." Farron crossed his arms as he walked. He didn’t seem as amused as she was.

She found it hard to believe; there was no way a mother would let him leave the house with those kinds of manners. She smirked as she trailed behind Farron who was in his usual black get-up, weapons strapped to his back and all.

The sun hung low in the sky, the result of her multiple stops to rest during the day. Her stamina still not up to par, the journey that should have only taken a day was now turning into a much longer ordeal. They’d set out early in the morning along the dirt road leading from the Haven to Dorini, a small town down in the valley. Apparently, they’d been on a mountain the whole time. She didn’t know where she was; she was just grateful that they were heading down it and not up. From there they would head north to Florin, the city of flowers and one said elf’s mother, where they would hide out for a while, at least until things settled down a little.

Maria, the Haven’s head healer, had been sad to see him go, though the same couldn’t have been said for herself. Claire could see the flash of relief on the older woman’s face when she’d learned of their departure. Although kind and willing to help, the woman sensed danger in Claire and seemed all too eager to see her leave, with or without the elf. Though no doubt she had tried to convince him to stay, Claire was glad that he hadn’t. If Maria was that paranoid, then Claire would need him now more than ever. Yet another thing to add to his growing list. But who else did she have? Though she was still confused as to why he wanted to help her, and the lengths he was willing to go in order to do so.

White cloth wrapped up her right arm, effectively hiding the mark and the nasty scar left behind by an even nastier man. Needless to say, it hadn’t taken much convincing for her to wear the bandage, given her current situation. And if what Farron had told her was true, about the people looking for her, then she’d wear it the rest of her life if it meant never having to face another giant feline. The beast still gave her nightmares.

Claire rubbed her eyes, slightly sore from yet another late night crying session, and started to braid her hair. Farron wisely never spoke a word about her puffy eyes. He was quiet for most of the day and would get lost in thought for long stretches of time. He seemed a little on edge. Perhaps he was trying to find a way to explain his two-year absence from his mother. She’d be nervous too if she had to explain that to her mother. A shudder ran through her just thinking about it. Although it was nice to finally find something Farron was afraid of, she wondered what kind of woman his mom was. If she was scary, Claire didn’t know if she wanted to risk the trip, even to see a city full of flowers.

Still not used to the whole situation with Farron, she felt awkward. Very awkward. The feeling hung in the air between them, so heavy it was like a weight dragging her down. But it was mostly her fault. She had been so embarrassed yesterday after their little tryst, she’d spent the rest of the night in her room again, going so far as to feign sick when he’d knocked and asked her to join him for dinner. Her cheeks had flushed so hot, she felt like she really was coming down with something. Even this morning, when she finally had to face him, wasn’t any better. His words were strained and she could tell he’d closed himself off again. She sighed, wanting to pull her hair out in frustration. How did he have this effect on her so suddenly?

She missed Aeron’s presence dearly in moments like this and wondered what had happened to the elf. No doubt he was searching for them, but for how long? The thought burned at the back of her mind. He may have been silly, but Aeron wouldn’t give up on them so easily. There was a reason he was such a high ranking official.

She looked up at Farron, taking her time as she braided her hair. It seemed like the past few days had never even happened­­—for him at least. He was the same cold, distant elf she’d grown so fond of, leading the way while barely speaking a word to her. Meanwhile, a battle still raged inside her head. Her mind still struggled to make sense of everything: his sudden compulsion to tell the truth, the fact that she had nearly died, her newfound powers, that she was wanted by several powerful forces, that elves have mothers and don’t just spawn from trees, that day at the spring. Though, she was pretty sure she understood all of those, except for the last one. Perhaps the past few days had been a figment of her imagination. She had lost a lot of blood, after all. Or, maybe there really had been something in the water.

Fare, she said breaking another extended period of silence.

He slowed his pace and glanced back at her, but he remained quiet, waiting for her to continue.

Did… She took a deep breath, wondering why she was even bothering. Did she really need to figure this one problem out? Some things were best left to be swept up under the rug. Did you really tell me the truth?

He just raised an eyebrow, giving her a skeptical look.

So the past few days really did happen? She could feel her cheeks grow hot.

Did you not want them to? he asked carefully.

Then all those things you said, they were all true? You didn’t just say it to trick me into going with you, did you? It wouldn’t have been the first time a man had lied and manipulated her feelings to get her to go with him. It hadn’t seemed like he did, but still…

No Claire, unless that’s what you hope happened.

I— She stopped to reconsider, but found she really didn’t know how to answer that one. Surely he must know what she was referring to. Did she have to say it out loud? Then why haven’t you tried to kiss me yet?

He stalked over to her and leaned in close as if he were about to do just that, but before his lips could touch hers, he stopped. Because you don’t want me to. He pulled back to look at her. None of that was a lie. I know the look of regret when I see it, Claire. I just hope I was able to take your mind off him for a little bit.

It’s… it’s not like that, she muttered, guilt settling in nice and heavy, twisting her stomach into a knot. Well, maybe it wasn’t entirely like that. Perhaps that was the reason why she gave in to him, why she kissed him back. But then why did it hurt to hear him say it? She felt terrible for using someone like that, even him—no, especially him—after all he’d done for her, but she couldn’t help feeling that that wasn’t entirely the case. I’m sorry, she muttered.

I’m not. He gave her a sad, almost longing smile before he straightened up again and continued down the road.

Claire stood motionless for a few moments, her breath catching in her chest, before following after the elf. Truth be told, kissing him scared her. But why was she scared? Because. Because he still had too many damn secrets, and because she might actually have feelings for somebody like him, bad manners and all.

She let her breath out slowly, feeling exhausted all over again. Her questions hadn’t solved anything in the end. They had only made her feel worse. He’d laid his feelings bare and she’d run and hid hers away. What incentive did he have to help her then? She wouldn’t blame him if he just left her in the village, never to see her again. A burden. That was what she felt like to him. Unless there were other reasons he was keeping her around. Her gut clenched at the thought. It didn’t seem that he was after her powers, but she couldn’t be absolutely sure about that either. There was still too much she didn’t know about him.

Her feet stopped on the path and she stood staring for a few moments, lost in thought.

Claire, we really can’t afford any more delays, Farron called from ahead. When she didn’t move, he sighed and started walking back towards her. It would be best not to spend too many nights outdoors. The village may be small, but even they would be foolish to attack it. They don’t like to attract too much attention to themselves…

"They, Claire snapped. You speak as if you know exactly who is coming for me."

He stopped in front of her and rubbed the back of his neck, hesitant to answer. That’s because they’ve been following us for a while now.

What? Claire gasped, shocked. She could feel the panic start to rise. Just when was he going to tell her this? Had Aeron known as well? H-how long? she asked and took a step back. "How long have they been following us? How long have you known?"

I suspected they’d come for you since you’d entered the forest and I found out what you are, he said quietly. It wasn’t until the thieves attacked us that I knew for sure. I’m sorry, Claire. I didn’t tell you before because I didn’t want you to worry.

Her breath came faster. She would have been angrier with him, but she knew he was right. If she would have known all along that people were coming after her, she would have been much less willing to go on this little adventure from the beginning.

"These people, are they the ones you told me of? The ones who would kill you to get to me?"

Yes, he replied, somber.

Claire took a long steadying breath. Even though he had told her, she hadn’t thought it would actually happen, that those sort of people would actually find them. It was a grim, sobering dose of reality, one that was not entirely welcome, but was nevertheless needed.

He touched her chin. That’s why I am here. I won’t let them get their hands on you.

Why? she asked. Why are you helping me like this?

He dropped his hand back down to his side and shrugged. Because I want to.

I’m not your responsibility, you know. I wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to leave. She looked up at him and tried to hide the terror in her eyes. I-I’m sure I can handle them myself. She knew that was a lie, but she felt guilty that he was putting his life on the line for her.

A smile grew on his lips.

Why are you smiling? I could if I wanted to! His smile only grew wider, though. Her hands formed fists at her sides. I’m being serious!

No doubt that you are, but good intentions never win fights, Claire. And I hardly think your intimidating demeanor will be scaring away anyone anytime soon.

Steam rose in front of her eyes. Even now he teased her. I’m only trying to—

I know, he said, his expression falling a little. But my lady is sorely mistaken if she thinks I’m going to give up that easily. He leaned down and placed a light kiss on her forehead, then turned and continued back down the road. Now we really must be going, he said, his arrogance in full swing. I don’t want to sleep on the ground any more than you do.

Quickly, Claire glanced around and hurried after him. Paranoia was sure to keep her on her toes from now on—and from sleeping. At least she would have Farron there, and she was grateful once again he hadn’t taken her up on her offer. Whatever his true reasons were for protecting her, she was glad that he was, no matter how maddening he could be.

They walked in silence for a while longer, the sun growing ever lower on the horizon. Claire thought back on her journey so far, back to the days of blissful ignorance. Were there any clues that she had missed along the way? Just who were these men Farron was talking about? She’d be sure to ask him later. He would give her the answer then; she’d make sure of it.

He caught her by the wrist, suddenly pulling her to a stop. Lost in her thoughts, she hadn’t noticed that he was the one that’d stopped walking this time. She looked at him as he tugged her backward, his eyes searching the road in front of them, his body growing tense. The knot in her stomach twisted further. What was it now?

This way, my lady, he said in a low voice as he turned to the forest on the left and took her hand. It looks like we won’t be sleeping indoors after all.

Claire’s pulse quickened. What is it? Or should that be who? Those men hadn’t found them already, had they? Perhaps it was just some thieves waiting for an unlucky passerby. She shook her head at the startling revelation: she knew she’d hit a new low when she had actually hoped for thieves. And here she thought her day was looking up.

Farron remained quiet as they plunged into the trees. He pulled her along at such a quick pace her legs could barely keep up. The foliage was light, making it a little easier as they wound their way through the forest. And for that, Claire was grateful. Fatigue started to set in on already sore muscles.

Fare, wait! she shouted, but he didn’t seem to hear her. It was becoming harder to breathe. She wouldn’t be able to keep up such a furious pace for much longer.

Movement caught her eye to their left, and she glanced over to find a dark figure running parallel to them. A snapping noise drew her attention to the right to find a similar figure running at the same pace. Farron stopped suddenly and Claire slammed into the back of him. His right hand shot up to the dagger handle over his shoulder while the other kept its tight grip on her hand. Claire spun around to face a rustling noise behind them and her eyes grew wide as a man stepped out from behind a tree. And then another. And another. All dressed head-to-toe in black, with half their faces covered by scarves. They were surrounded.

Her free hand found the handle of the new dagger at her waist as she looked back and forth between the men, her chest heaving. None of them looked happy and neither was she. Were these the men Farron spoke of? In any case, she was sure she wasn’t going to like what they wanted.

We can end this peacefully if you want. The voice was low and authoritative as it suddenly filled the small clearing they’d stopped in.

Claire peered around Farron to the owner of the voice. A middle-aged man stood before them, his head shaved and brown eyes glaring. He was dressed all in black to match his comrades and, for some reason, looked somewhat familiar, but she couldn’t quite put her finger on why.

How long have you dogs been sniffing on our heels? Farron growled.

We caught your scent all the way back in Lendon, the man sneered. But I suppose ya already knew that, didn’t ya?

Claire’s eyes widened, the shock hitting her like a wall of bricks. That’s it! He looked different, with a shaved head and more meat on his bones, but there was no mistaking it. She had met this man before in a back alley in Lendon, only now he didn’t look as crazy or ragged. A slight shiver ran through her. To think that she’d been so close to such a man and not even know it, even threatened him if she recalled right. She glanced up at Farron and her stomach sank as a slight grin spread across his face. She could feel the water on her neck, that’s how deep she was in.

I shoulda’ known back then, who ya were, but the mind gets rusty, ya know? But who could forget a fey bastard like you, eh? The Silver Dog, isn’t that what they used to call ya? It was the man’s turn to grin. I heard rumors that you disappeared.

The smile faded from Farron’s face.

Are ya finally crawling back to your king? the man asked. His eyes found Claire. Or are ya bringing him a present?

Her stomach dropped even further. A present? Was she wrong to trust Farron after all?

He is not my king, Farron growled.

Your actions speak different than your words, lad.

Something your kind is quite familiar with, I hear.

The man shot him a glare.

I’m surprised you scum didn’t break the code, Farron sneered.

Not even we would attack a Haven, the man said. You’d have been better off stayin’ there, if ya ask me.

You’re the least of my problems.

Don’t get cocky just because you beat us once!

Farron shrugged. That’s what happens when you hire cheap labor.

What were they talking about? Claire froze. Wait… the thieves! Were these the men that had hired them? Remembering what Farron had said after that encounter, she glanced at the men’s’ wrists to see if the two dots were there, but they were covered by long dark sleeves and gloves.

It seems you’re outnumbered now. So just give us the girl. The man took a step forward.

In one quick motion, Farron drew his dagger and pointed it at the man, stopping him in his tracks. I don’t think so. His hand tightened around hers. Anger buzzed along his body, muscles tense, ready for battle.

The man’s eyes grew wide and the sound of metal weapons being drawn sounded through the clearing. Fear flashed through Claire in a cold sweat as she watched, one by one, as the men drew their swords to point at them.

Fare, she whispered, eyeing the men nervously. He wasn’t thinking of fighting all of them, was he?

Now, now, the man said calmly. Let’s be reasonable. All we want is the girl. No one has to get hurt here.

It’s so kind of you to worry about your men.

Claire rolled her eyes. Even now he was still so arrogant.

Ya can’t think to win against all my men, boy, baldy said, his voice holding more anger than before.

Movement at her feet drew Claire’s eyes down. Thick fog crawled along the ground, slowly slithering its way toward her feet. She stepped closer to Farron in a vain attempt to avoid it. Something about it didn’t seem right, though. Fog didn’t just appear like that in the middle of the day. And it moved almost as if it were alive.

Farron’s ice cold gaze rested steadily on the man in front of him, ignoring the others, as his dagger pointed unwaveringly at his chest in a stand-off.

Drop your weapon, the man demanded through clenched teeth.

Drop yours, Farron countered, his voice sending chills down her spine.

Oh, Fare-Fare, you disappoint me. An accented female voice drifted on the air around them, echoing off the trees in an almost otherworldly manner.

Farron’s arm faltered as a twinge of surprise flicked across his face. He swiftly recovered, returning his full attention back to the head honcho. A few of the surrounding men spun around to search for the owner of the voice. Claire eyed the growing fog as it crept higher and higher until they were all standing knee deep in the stuff. It seemed like everybody was joining their happy party today.

Do not tell me you forgot how to use that thing. A woman stepped out from the trees in light brown leather armor, hugging curves that could knock a man dead. Her arms and shoulders were bare, and the front plunged down into a deep V between breasts any woman would envy. Tall and slender with dark blonde hair, green eyes, and sun-kissed skin, she was beautiful, exotic, and had one other feature that caught the eye like no other: a glowing purple mark.

The surrounding men turned their full attention to the approaching woman, and she couldn’t really blame them. Claire stared at the glowing mark on the woman’s arm, so similar to the one that graced her own skin. The intricate design blazed a deep purple color as the tendrils, adorned with flowers and thorns, crawled up her forearm.

Do you know this woman? Claire asked, even though she already knew the answer. Who didn’t the elf know these days?

A strained look crossed over Farron’s face. You’re looking well, Lianna. He lowered his dagger finally and turned towards the woman.

The men started to back away slowly, perhaps deciding that their new friend was more of a danger. Farron stepped in front of Claire, apparently agreeing with their assessment.

You always did try to avoid my questions, Lianna said in a deep, sultry voice, with a smile to match.

It must be one of my gifts.

Lianna peered around Farron at Claire. And what do we have here? She raised an eyebrow as she looked Claire up and down.

None of your concern.

The woman’s smile widened as her attention rested on the bracelet dangling around Claire’s left wrist. Oh, Fare, you shouldn’t have. Her exotic eyes drifted up to his face. The Ophiuchus Syndicate must be furious. But I suppose that’s why they sent these fine gentlemen.

So it seems. Farron glanced around quickly.

Tired of feeling like an object, Claire pried her hand from Farron’s grasp and took a step back. She wanted both her hands free in case things started to get even more ugly, which looked like an ever increasing possibility. Lianna’s face grew steadily angrier the more she talked to Farron, which definitely wasn’t a good thing, but it was nice to know she wasn’t the only one he had that effect on.

"Why don’t you hand the girl over to me then?" Lianna took a step in Claire’s direction.

Why, so she can turn out like you? Farron glared at the woman and his left hand went to the other dagger handle over his shoulder.

But before he could draw, Lianna lunged forward and slammed into him, tackling him to the ground.

Far—! Claire gasped, jumping away.

Lianna gripped Farron’s throat with her right hand, the mark blazing to life as she pinned him down to the ground. Tiny sparks of energy crackled in the air above her as she glared at the elf.

Claire stood frozen with her hand on the dagger at her waist. Should she help him? Everything was happening so fast, she wasn’t sure what to do, though there was no way she stood a chance against their new attacker.

"I’ll be taking the girl, Lianna growled, leaning over the struggling elf, who seemed strangely helpless underneath her. She fished the gold necklace out from his shirt and grasped the large sapphire in her hand. But I’ll leave you with a parting gift. This should make it easier to take care of them. The stone burst to life, blinding them with a bright white-blue glow. Thanks, my love." She bent close and pressed her lips against his in a not-so-chaste-kiss before rising up off Farron.

Then her green eyes set their sight on Claire, like a hunter eyeing their prey. Claire took an unsteady step back, her heart jumping in her chest.

Farron had forgotten to mention the little fact that there were others like her—and much more powerful, it seemed. And that the necklace he wore was more than it had appeared.

Claire took a glance around. The men stood unmoving along the edge of the clearing, holding their weapons up in front of them as they watched Lianna. Her choices were limited once again. Either go with the scary men or the scary woman.

Farron slowly stood up behind the woman as if in pain, his breathing ragged, as he picked his dagger up off the ground. You shouldn’t have done that, he said in a strained voice. The jewel pulsed with a dim light and he closed his eyes for a brief second, taking a deep breath.

Lianna looked over her shoulder at Farron as he raised the dagger in front of him. He ran a hand down the back of the blade and sparks of energy, like lightning, shot over the length of metal. He drew the other dagger from over his shoulder and slammed it into the other and the energy spread onto it. With a quick flourish, he held his blades at the ready, knees bent, muscles taut.

Claire’s eyes grew wide and she took another step back. Since when could he do that?

Lianna laughed and rushed at Farron again, the movement a blur.

Claire shrieked as hands suddenly grabbed her from behind and pulled her back into the trees. Both her arms were seized as another man came