Alexis's Memories

By Melanie Jackson

The first seventeen years of Alexis’s life are gone, replaced by a black void and ache in her heart. Over the last year she has endeavored to bring stability to her life. However, after her uncle’s heart attack and greedy board members power gripping over her family’s company, her uncle’s strange and beautiful friend Jaden arrives bringing more questions than answers.

Meanwhile, a year has passed and war with an unknown enemy has left countless immortals dead or missing. Hundreds flock to the Seventh House in hopes of vengeance. Even with her new position as Seer, Jaden struggles to use her sight to save lives as the council’s apathy prevents her from amassing the numbers needed to combat the human and Sicariorim army. Forced to fight a war on the defensive and weighted by a dismal future, Jaden clings to her only hope of joy and happiness, the return of Alexis’s memories.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Melanie Jackson
• Release date: Jun 12, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370715930

Melanie Jackson

Melanie Jackson lives in Littleton, NH with her husband, Corey Jackson. She works full time as a licensed nursing assistant. Melanie was born with a rare medical condition called FFU (Femur, Fibula, Ulna Dyspepsia); and dyslexia. She is the second oldest of seven children, was raised by a single mom and was homeschooled. Reading and writing has never come easily to Melanie but she was inspired by her favorite authors to keep trying. With hard work and dedication she began writing and found worlds and stories existed within her she had never known. The journey to publication was filled with countless struggles but she learned every step of the way. Melanie hopes to give someone the same joy and inspiration she was given.

Book preview

Alexis’s Memories

Melanie Jackson

Warning: Contains Adult Content

Cover artwork by: Lin Hsiang

Edited by: Jennifer M. Rich

Copyright © 2017 Melanie Jackson

All rights reserved.

One

ALEXIS SHIVERED BENEATH her black fleece-lined trench coat. Piercing cold wind tossed her hair as it blew through London University of Law’s campus promenade. The bright sun offered her no respite from the cold but the birds didn’t seem to notice. They chirped happily from the few naked trees lining the sidewalk. Alexis walked swiftly, pulling her suitcase behind her. She now regretted wearing a skirt and heels. Yawning, she tucked a loose strand of blonde hair behind her ear. Her strange dream had awoken her at two in the morning.

Covered in sweat, Alexis had found scorch marks on her comforter. After disposing of the blanket she searched for the cause and found a half burned incense stick on her bedside table and dubbed it as the source. Moving it to her dresser Alexis returned to her bed but sleep lingered outside of her reach. She lay awake fighting restlessness as the night dragged into morning with little sleep. To worsen matters, Alexis knew her uncle Brian's sweet-mannered secretary, Jasmine, had her scheduled for meetings back to back today. She yawned again.

Alexis! a nearly breathless male voice called.

Coming to a stop, she turned, her emerald eyes shining. Richard, she called, her voice carrying across the campus promenade.

The blue-eyed, blond man ran towards her, briefcase in hand, and he came to a stop in front of her.

You okay? Alexis asked, patting his back as he tried to catch his breath.

I…wanted to say goodbye before you left, the young man gasped.

Alexis grinned. I’m just leaving school. You’ll still see me.

I know, he said, frowning. It just won’t be the same.

With Brian being in such poor health, I need to be home, taking care of him and helping with my family’s company.

Richard's brows came together. Is his health really that bad?

He puts on a brave face for me and the board, but I know it’s worse than what he says, Alexis said, her grip tightening on the suitcase handle. And those power-hungry vultures are just waiting for him to…

He took her into his arms and hugged her. She hugged him back, nestling her face into his chest.

I don't know what I’ll do if he dies, Richard. He’s all I have. She sniffed back tears.

It’ll be okay, you'll see, he replied, stroking her back. And I’m here if you need anything.

Alexis sniffed again and pulled back. I know, thank you.

Richard brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. Anytime. I love you. He kissed her lips.

Alexis returned the kiss then said, I know.

He took her luggage handle and helped her to the waiting taxi. Are you still coming by for our date?

Alexis grinned. Of course.

Then I will see you tomorrow morning, he said, and kissed her again.

Alexis turned in her seat to watch Richard disappear into the distance. Great, after a long day at work, back to the manor, she sulked, turning back.

Since the accident, her family’s estate was her least favorite place. Every inch of Hawk Manor was a constant, stabbing reminder of what she couldn’t remember. No matter how many pictures, movies, or news clippings she saw, she remembered nothing from the first seventeen years of her life.

Her first memory was of Uncle Brian’s worried face and a team of doctors standing over her as she woke from her coma. Those first few weeks were hard, especially coming to terms with the fact that she may never get those seventeen years back. Richard and Brian were supportive as she struggled to learn to live with the unknown.

Alexis watched the snowy streets pass by her in a blur. Have an exciting weekend planned? the cab driver asked, peering back at her in his rear view mirror.

Oh yeah, lots of fun, she replied sarcastically.

The last thing she wanted to do this weekend was muddle over account balances, summaries, and stock share records. The week had been so gloomy, with a rain and snow mix, which left everything covered in mud and ice. Even one day without gloomy clouds and rain was a day to be outside having fun. However, she knew her uncle was relying on her, as were the thousands of people employed by Forever Trust and Holdings.

Hey, you’re Alexis Hawk from the news.

Alexis turned her attention to the cabby and smiled. Yes, sir.

It's a great thing what you did, stepping up, taking over for Mr. Whitmore. Lots of people owe their jobs to you, including my nephew, the driver said as the cab turned down a narrow street. See, Frank is a good kid, he just had a bad start in life. We never thought anyone would hire him, especially with his criminal record. When Mr. Whitmore did, it was the best thing that ever happened to him. He's engaged to his girlfriend now and they’re expecting a baby in July.

That's wonderful. Please tell him the Hawk family send their most heartfelt congratulations, Alexis replied.

I will, and please tell Mr. Whitmore that the Thompson family is keeping him in our prayers, he said as the cab came to a stop outside the towering financial institution.

She paid the fare, tipping the man generously. Of course, Mr. Thompson, she replied then retrieved her luggage.

Passing beneath the company’s name, Alexis entered the modern forty-six floored tower that housed the company her uncle founded over twelve years ago. Centrally located in downtown London, the company was a shining monument to the twenty-first century: concrete and steel strung together to support the building's enormous windows which reflected light as well as any mirror. The spacious main lobby was alive with activity as she crossed to the reception desk.

Morning, Jasmine, she greeted the busy, blonde, and blue-eyed receptionist.

Glancing up from her work, she smiled. Good morning, Lady Hawk.

Alexis returned the gesture, then asked, How is Brian?

Good, Lady. I have followed your instructions to the letter. He’s currently working on the spending reports and employee schedules. Nothing too stressful, she replied, waving her hand at a man in a sharp tuxedo.

He crossed the marble floor and took Alexis's suitcase. Thank you, she said, slipping out of her coat and handing it to the man.

We are happy to do anything we can do to help him recover, Jasmine said, holding out a stack of papers. Here are the reports the board asked for and today’s meeting schedule. Your first appointment is Mr. Lessinger. He wants a loan to expand his company into China. If he succeeds in expanding, the company will have a substantial return on its investment. It could double or even triple our return.

Alexis nodded her thanks then allowed herself one last moment to wallow in self-pity before she straightened and strode to the lobby’s waiting area. Mr. Lessinger was a short, plump man with neat brown hair and small brown eyes.

Mr. Lessinger. Welcome to Forever Trust and Holdings. I'm sorry to have kept you waiting, she said, stretching her hand out to the man.

He came to his feet and took her hand in a firm shake. Lady Hawk, a pleasure. I was saddened to hear about Mr. Whitmore taking ill, he replied, genuine concern in his voice.

Thank you. We’re all keeping him in our prayers, Alexis replied.

When I heard the grave news, I reconsidered my appointment. However when I called, the receptionist said things at Forever Trust and Holdings are still running normally. So I decided to keep my appointment and see for myself, he said skeptically.

Well let me assure you, Mr. Lessinger; Forever Trust and Holdings can and will continue even without Mr. Whitmore attending to every detail within the company. We pride ourselves on being available for our clients twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, Alexis said with confidence, despite her own insecurities.

I'm relieved to hear you say that.

If you follow me, we can get started on your paperwork, Alexis said, leading him to the elevator to her office on the top floor.

The day crawled. Every meeting started with her reassuring clients as she fought back against the mounting rumors regarding her family’s company. It was after five when she finally bid Mr. Thornton from marketing goodbye and went to collect Brian from his office. She found the gray-haired man at his desk, papers spread out in front of him.

I don't care. Just because his father sat on the board doesn't automatically grant him a seat and I don't give a damn how much money he has, her uncle barked into his phone.

Alexis crossed the room quickly, took it from him, and gave him a frustrated glare as the voice on the other end continued its tirade. He is set to inherit a quarter of a billion dollars. Your company could greatly benefit from this—

Our company cannot be bought, Mr. Wesner, Alexis interrupted. We are privately owned and the only reason we have a board is so that like-minded people can come together to make a positive impact in the world. If the board members continue to press this issue we will dismantle it, Alexis threatened.

You wouldn't dare, was the man’s harsh reply.

Keep pressing the issue, Mr. Wesner, and find out, Alexis replied coldly. Now, if you are done power gripping, I have other matters to attend too.

This conversation isn't over!

Good day Mr. Wesner. Alexis hung up the phone.

She turned to her uncle who was rubbing his temples. You’re supposed to be resting and staying stress free, she scolded.

He grinned up at her and the worry lines on his face relaxed away. Always looking out for me.

Alexis gave him a bright smile. Always.

Let's go home, he said, standing.

Brian gathered up his papers and placed them into his briefcase while Alexis got his coat from beside the door.

All moved out of your dorm room? he asked as they left the office and made their way to the elevator.

Alexis nodded. Yes.

The elevator opened. I still wish you wouldn’t have left school, Brian said as they stepped inside.

The doors closed and he pushed the button for the ground floor. Someone needs to look after you. Besides, I can always go back next year, she replied.

Your education is important and should come first.

Family comes first, Brian, she corrected as the elevator started moving. Besides, school will still be there next year.

I know, thank you, Brian said, pulling her into a crushing hug.

Alexis returned the hug, saying, Besides, the company really needs me around, especially with Mr. Wesner poking his nose into our affairs.

Oh that reminds me, we are receiving a very special guest tomorrow, he said, releasing her. She's going to be staying with us for a few weeks or possibly longer depending on how things go.

The elevator dinged and the doors opened. Who is she? Alexis asked as they entered the empty main lobby.

Her name is Jaden. She’s a good friend and has placed a great deal of time and money into our company.

Brian! A special friend? Alexis teased.

Her uncle froze, his eyes wide and mouth open. What?

Alexis nudged his arm. You know, a girlfriend.

Oh God! No, never! His loud voice echoed in the empty lobby while his cheeks and ears turned a deep red.

If you say so… She winked at him.

God, Alexis! Jaden is gay. She likes girls, Brian replied, his face still flaming.

Alexis eyed him for a moment. So why is she coming here?

Jaden is coming because I asked her to help take over some of my responsibilities, lighten the load. At least for a little while, he replied.

Wait, you're going to let a stranger run the company? Does she even know what she’s doing?

Jaden knows more about the financial world than most seasoned businessmen, he replied, switching his briefcase to his other hand. Besides, it will be a nice break from what she’s been doing these days.

Alexis sighed, too tired to argue despite her skepticism.

Lady Hawk, Mr. Whitmore? I thought you left already, A sandy-haired teen operating a bulky floor scrubber said.

Alexis’s uncle smiled at the young man. We’re just heading out, Frank.

We heard you’re to be a father soon, Alexis quipped.

Frank grinned. Yes, a boy!

Brian shook the young man’s hand. Congratulations, you’re going to be a great dad.

I hope so, Sir, Frank replied, beaming.

And to thank you for your hard work, dedication to our company, and as a gift from us to you, I'm giving you a raise and your maternity leave will start a week early, Alexis added sweetly.

Frank's mouth dropped open. I don't know what to say, besides thank you.

You don't need to thank us. It’s people like you that keep this company going, Brian stated.

Besides, you’re going to need it to pay for that Oxford education, Alexis added.

Thank you! Thank you! He beamed.

Brian patted him on the back then they left him to his work. Two doormen in dark blue suits opened an umbrella as they stepped outside into the rain and slid into the back of the waiting limo.

So what’s your friend like?

He smiled warmly. She’s smart, beautiful, and resourceful. Although she can be slightly mysterious at times.

She nudged him with her elbow. Are you sure you’re not crushing on her?

Brian laughed. She is more your type than mine.

I have a boyfriend. Besides, she’s a girl.

We’ll see, he replied, grinning.

What do you mean, we’ll see? Alexis asked, making finger quotations in the air.

Nothing, he replied and chuckled when Alexis scowled at him.

Two

FLAMES DANCED AS THEY devoured the Fourth House. Thick, choking smoke reached for the sky, an eerie sight in the soft glow of Italy’s predawn light. Ash flakes fell around me as I charged through the double oak doors into the inner courtyard, spreading the fire further through the castle. I dropped, spun, and lashed out with Ivy's silver blades. They were her gift to me, the last remnant of a great teacher and friend. Colliding with the exposed flesh of a massive leg, they severed it from the human-like creature’s body and he collapsed to the ground screaming and cursing.

The creature was sicariorim, better known amongst my younger col-leagues as a sicarius. They were more monsters than men—seven feet tall with thick, muscular bodies bred for killing. Another appeared before me, knocking the wind from my chest with his powerful arm. I took flight and my already bruised body landed on the hard-blackened soil.

Seer! A deep male voice called.

Strong hands appeared from the smoke, grabbed me, and pulled me to the safety of a scorched piece of fallen wall.

The sicarius screamed as he went up in an orange blaze of fire. Our position is being overrun. We have to fall back, my broad-shouldered rescuer said as he shot two flame-wielding humans trying to flank us.

I met Jeremiah’s brown eyes and replied, Not yet, we have to give Nathaniel and the others a little more time to draw the rest into the courtyard.

An explosion above sent us leaping from cover as chunks of burning wood, stones, and shattered glass crashed down on us.

He shot a human in the head. We’re outnumbered.

We just need to give them a few more minutes, I urged, cutting another attacker down before we ducked behind another slab of wall as waves of angry flames spiraled towards us.

Face it, Seer, we are out of time, Jeremiah insisted, dropping his spent clips to the ground, fire crashing against the stone. And ammunition. If the sicarii keep coming after us—

I grinned at him and shook my head. He was a loyal and steadfast soldier, practical, and not shy about voicing his skepticism regarding my gift. Grabbing his shoulder, I squeezed it reassuringly, saying, Have faith, Jeremiah.

Faith? he repeated, as the fire dissipated.

We are right on time.

He opened his mouth to reply but I gave him a hard shove as two sicarii dropped from the burning second story. They lashed out at me with bloody claws, saliva running from their gaping mouths. I rolled from the safety of the rock and saw Jeremiah throw himself at the wall of armored humans, killing them with fists and speed.

Die, betrayer! a sicarius snarled, his simple mind programed for only one goal—death.

Setting my jaw, my hold tightening on the black hilts of the swords, I swung them in alternating crescents. The uglier of the two abominations let out an agonized scream, collapsing, blood squirting from what remained of his clawed hand.

My own inner monster started to snarl and drool in excitement as I cut a deep gash in the assassin’s lower chest, ending him. Suddenly, I was lifted from the ground, slammed into a broken slab of castle wall then tossed to the ground.

"Let me out, human!" The demon within me screamed as the sicarius raised a powerful leg. I will tear his limbs from his body.

I rolled to the left as he stomped down hard, denting the earth as he tried to crush me. Let me out!

"Gods, shut up!" I demanded rolling to the right, once again avoiding being crushed.

Gunfire sent the sicarius crashing to the ground, spraying yet another coating of blood across my already stained clothes. A short woman appeared over me, her hand extended. Seer?

I took it and she helped me to my feet. Thank you, Taylor. Where were you?

Trapped in the second floor store rooms. We managed to make our own door, she replied as the Immortals assigned to her helped Jeremiah kill what remained of the enemy humans.

Glancing up at the hole, I grinned. Creative.

A bang echoed through the yard as the west wing’s double doors fell open and we spun to face the next attack. Covered in dirt, blood, and half-burned clothing, Timothy, my young-looking second-in-command, entered the yard at a human run followed by Justine and the four soldiers I had assigned to them. Directly behind them, a tornado of fire made its way down the hall, scorching the stone walls and igniting everything in its path.

I shoved Taylor to the ground and leaped back at the same time. A second later a sicarius dropped from the second story.

His crimson eyes met mine and saliva dripped as he spoke, Die, betrayers of the high king.

An enraged scream left him and he spun. Behind him, Taylor’s small hands clutched a bloody European arming sword. Next to the assassin’s enormous size she appeared dwarfed, but nonetheless she braced herself, her ebony eyes determined.

Pride rose within me; every one of the Seventh's members were loyal, courageous, and willing to sacrifice themselves for me.

Before the creature could lunge for her I deepened the cuts Taylor had made in his backside. He screamed, wavered, and she sliced his head from his body after three silver bullets from Justine’s pistol sent him to his knees.

Timothy and the others arrived next to me. They’re coming and they brought new toys.

Bruised and bloody, Jeremiah accepted ammo from Timothy. We noticed. Tell us you saw this? he said, reloading his handguns.

Justine ran her fingers through her short silver hair. You shouldn’t doubt the Seer’s gift. It's disrespectful, she scolded as we moved into a tight semi-circle formation.

The humans in body armor, wielding flamethrowers and handguns, formed a line near the west wing’s doors. I have great respect and trust in Lady Hawk. It's magic and other supernatural things I don’t understand or trust, he explained.

The Seer has proved her prescience. How can you still be skeptical? Timothy scoffed, his blue eyes focused on our enemy.

This is my life, my future, and I don't like it being decided by anyone other than me, he shot back. Besides, those things clearly were not in the plan. He waved his hand at the line of armored humans.

Enough; find cover, I ordered.

They scattered. Timothy and I ducked behind a blackened piece of castle wall as the humans released another steady stream of fire. The intense heat burned the fine hairs on my arms and although I knew it meant certain death, I relaxed against the stone.

Alexis is like this. An intense all-encompassing heat warming my veins and thawing my frozen soul. My pleasant thought was short lived as blood-curdling screams filled the air along with the stench of burning flesh.

The beast within clawed at his cage and hissed at me, It’s like before. When we killed them in their homes. They screamed for us to save them, the women and children.

I grimaced, a cold feeling forming in the pit of my stomach. We watched them burn.

Where is Nathaniel? I demanded through gritted teeth as I tried to ignore the monster.

They’re held up in the east wing of the castle, Timothy replied, pointing up.

Through the smoke, I could just make out gunfire through the east wing windows. Great! I whispered under my breath.

Was this in your vision, Seer? he asked and I met his worried eyes.

The monster within laughed as he said, They trust you…think you will save them; fools.

Is the monster right? Is their trust misplaced? Even as my mind wrestled with self-doubt, I reassured him with a strong smile. It’ll be okay, Tim.

He nodded as human screams tore through the courtyard followed by the thick, sweet coppery scent of human blood mixed with smoke and burning flesh. The heat dissipated and Timothy and I cautiously emerged from the safety of the stone.

The tall, thin, blond haired Eli and burly Zachary, along with three other Immortals, stood amidst the dead humans.

Good to see you decided to join the fun! Jeremiah said, crossing in a flash to clasp arms with Zachary.

Couldn’t let you out do me, the man replied gruffly.

I guess we don’t need Nathaniel after all, Jeremiah boasted, taking in the charred, body-littered courtyard.

The south gate’s massive oak doors fell from its hinges with a groan, drawing our attention as three sicarii forced it open, followed by another wave of flame throwing men.

Seer! Timothy shouted as I shoved him back into our hiding place.

Stay, I ordered then crossed the yard in a flash of speed. Find cover!

They were moving but the enemy was already upon them forming a line of death, pinning my men between them and the caved in, burning northern wing of the Fourth House.

Seer! Justine shouted.

With nowhere to go, they held their ground, unloading their ammo at the humans. Fire hurtled towards them. It was a giant wave, rolling in on itself, undulating like some grotesque creature hell-bent on death and destruction.

Using my body like a battering ram, I slammed into one of the sicariorim assassins as hard as I could, sending him colliding into the line of humans. The fire dispersed.

Move! I screamed.

The members of the Seventh scattered, leaping behind the rubble littering the courtyard.

Dammit, Nathaniel! I thought as the sicarius approached and the humans turned their weapons on me. Where the fuck are you?

I leaped from the flame’s path and rolled behind a dislodged section of scorched wall. Crouching, my back against the warm stone, the sound of steady gunfire erupted around me. Finally, I thought, closing my eyes drowning in the memory of my lover.

Slender body, small breasts and hips. Flawless sun kissed skin. Her golden blonde hair haloed her naked body, the tips tangling with her blonde eyelashes that framed deep emerald love-filled jewels. Succulent, light rose-colored lips, which tasted of fire and the sweetest nectar, became a captivating smile.

Alexis, I breathed.

The beast dragged me from my pleasant thoughts and I could feel him pulling on his chains, beating on the iron cage of my will. The salty, burning scent of copper in the air excited him and he demanded release.

The vision of his naked form filled my mind. I watched him lick his massive colorless lips, snap his sharp teeth at me, and he scraped his claws along the floor.

"Silence, monster," I ordered.

"The death, destruction…fun. We could have so much fun," the beast whined with desire.

"You are repulsive; monstrous."

"It was not always so, human," he mocked.

"Be silent," I shot back, feeling drained.

I fought to tune him out, yet the images his words brought to my mind made my stomach flutter and adrenaline course through my iced-over veins.

Wiping my bloody, trembling hands on my stained jeans I once again clutched Ivy’s swords in tight fists. The steady roar of ocean waves hitting the side of the cliffs replaced the consistent gunfire.

A second later a callused hand touched my bare arm. Seer?

I jumped, my eyes flew open, and I raised my sword. The hand grabbed my wrist and deep copper eyes stared into mine.

Sorry, Lady, I didn't mean to startle you, Nathaniel apologized, releasing me.

All clear? I asked, my heart still racing.

Yes, I believe this battle is won.

No one wins in war, I replied, as the beast’s disappointment swirled within me.

Right, sorry, he said offering me his hand.

Taking it, he pulled me roughly to my feet. Now standing I collected myself, wiping the blood from my swords before sheathing them.

I could feel the young soldier watching me with worried eyes and his question held his fear. Is everything okay?

Looking at him, I forced a smile. Don’t worry everything is fine. Thank you for the save.

He returned the smile and I could see the muscles in his arms and legs relax. Anytime. Would you care for a drink? He offered me his thermos.

Thank you, I replied, emptying it of the nourishing blood in one long drought.

It was cold and old, yet it did help in soothing the beast’s desire for more bloodshed. I handed it back to him.

He capped the thermos and said, Timothy already has the clean up under way and everyone is preparing to leave. We should be on the road in just under two hours.

Thanks. Why don’t you go help the others?

Lady. He bowed and left.

Letting out a long, heavy sigh, I straightened and went to survey the damage. The inner courtyard was a smoking graveyard; corpses littered the still-burning ground. Around me, the Fourth House lay in ruin, fire still consuming what remained of the once majestic castle.

Again, we were too late, so many dead, I thought, grinding my teeth.

Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, the restored thirteenth century castle once had six expansive floors, totaling thirty-eight rooms and five grand reception halls.

Joy and laughter once echoed off these walls. Now only sorrow will echo through this place, I thought, watching the survivors of the attack.

They sat about the courtyard, defeat upon their downcast faces, council member Lady Elizabeth among them. With a heavy heart, I walked amidst the wreckage as they thanked me for their rescue. I offered a solemn nod or an encouraging handshake.

Lady Elizabeth and the Fourth are lucky you’re around, Timothy said, coming to stand beside me. Without you, this would have been a massacre.

I watched as the violet-eyed Alayna tried to console Lady Elizabeth, who slumped on a burned bench, her face in her hands. We should have been here sooner, I snapped.

No one could have moved this many troops across the UK and remained undetected any quicker, Justine replied as she wiped her hands on her black pants. She was helping Zachary and Jeremiah pile the bodies onto a massive funeral pyre.

Ivy could have, I shot back.

Timothy shook his head. No! I don't believe even Ivy could have done this much in only fifteen hours.

I frowned, unbelieving. These people owe you their lives, Eli added as he dropped a scorched corpse onto a cart then ran his hand through his blond hair. Nathaniel nodded his agreement as the smoke from the pyre finally reached me.

I covered my mouth and nose. Too many died, I replied.

Yet, many live because of you and the Seventh. I turned to face the speaker and found myself staring up into the sad, light blue eyes of Lady Elizabeth's man-at-arms and husband; Sir Marcus.

The gods have shown us favor this day, Lady Jaden. We are most grateful to you and your House, he continued.

Anytime, Sir Marcus. We clasped hands in a firm shake then he left to help with the wounded. We should hurry. Liam and Gretchen will only be able to redirect the humans for so long, I said, looking up at the rising smoke.

There was no doubt the nearby village had seen the fire and smoke. The local fire department and police, even with the Russian twins’ interference, would arrive all too soon. However, with a little luck, we would be long gone before then.

It will be okay. We saved nearly everyone, Alayna said, a comforting arm around the Lady of the Fourth House, as I approached.

Alayna, go and help with the injured, I ordered. Her brows came together and she frowned. Go on, I need a moment with the councilor.

Standing, she retreated to where the wounded were being gathered.

Lady Elizabeth’s nearly invisible blonde brows came together and she snapped. I don’t want to hear it, Jaden.

Regardless, the council needs to start taking greater steps to combat this enemy before there is nothing left of us worth saving, I said, waving my hand at the courtyard. We have been very lucky so far but it won’t last. Our enemy clearly has access to an advanced arsenal of military grade weaponry, resources, troops, and ways to move them. We are extremely outmatched.

We will never agree to a treaty with the Rogues; it is out of the question. And the creation of a formal army would endanger us even more than we already are, she replied firmly.

Endanger us? My voice carried across the courtyard, drawing the attention of others who stopped to listen. Look around you. I pointed to a blackened corpse mere feet from us and continued, Look at him! Whether you want to believe it or not, we are losing this war.

Jaden—

No! Don’t you see? Whoever is creating and leading this sicariorim and human army is managing to stay out of my visions, which means I cannot see him or her. They are more than likely using old magic to shield themselves from me. Which means this enemy is not only crazy and power-hungry but also skilled with magic or has people skilled in it. It makes little difference either way. If something is not done to unite our people and create an army—a real army, one to surpass our enemy—the last thing you will have to worry about is mortals discovering our existence.

We cannot risk the possibility of creating a mass panic among them. They are a simple people; their leaders could start hunting us down, and rounding up anyone they think is a vampire, she defended, her thin hands adjusting her dark blue skirt. With humans running around pretending to be us, and cults worshiping us, thousands could die. More so, if they start using biological or nuclear weapons on each other.

I locked eyes with her. How can you continue to sit on your hands while our people are murdered? We need resources, men, and weapons. The leaders from the Immortal Civil War—Ivy—would’ve gotten us what we needed by now, not tomorrow or someday.

Lady Elizabeth stood, her face red with anger. You don’t know! You were not there, she screamed, fists tight. You did not see families tearing each other apart. We became the very monster within us and our streets ran red with blood. And I mean literally. All you can see is the glory and the victories, but I…I still see the shredded corpses littering the streets I played upon as a child, and hear the screams of my friends and family as they were torn apart.

Councilor—

No! she turned from me. I was only a hundred and fifteen when people started disappearing. High King Ammon did nothing and I, like so many other young Immortals, did not know what to do. So we waited in fear. She moved to peer down at the corpse as a few Immortals moved closer to listen in on our conversation.

When we formed the council and started plotting the assassination of the high king, we were young, hungry for power and change. However, what did I know about war? Nothing. I lived in a luxurious house, with many slaves to tend my needs and desires. Yet, I felt it was my duty to take part in the future of our people. Lady Elizabeth turned back, met my eyes, and whispered, I have done and witnessed terrible things to hold onto this power. Things I cannot unsee or undo and the repercussions of those choices are heavy chains upon my soul. I will never forget the cost of my decisions.

If we continue our apathetic approach to this war our people will think us no better than the high king, I accused.

That's not fair! she snapped, then exhaled. Please understand. We do what we do to protect peace, not out of indifference or ignorance, but desperation. We cannot live through another Immortal Civil War.

Tell that to them, I replied, waving my hand at our audience. "How long do you think it's going to take? How many dead before people start forgetting what the heroes of the civil war did and start focusing on what they're not doing?"

Lady Elizabeth shifted uncomfortably as I leaned in to whisper in her ear, You say you don’t want to start another civil war. Then do something before they decide to dispose of the council, just like you did the high king.

Are you threatening me, Seer? she asked through gritted teeth.

My face was inches from hers as I spoke, I’ve seen it, Lady Elizabeth. Our people’s death is caused by your inaction.

Her eyes became distant as she whispered, Eventually, even we must atone for our choices and sometimes…death is preferable.

She turned from me and as I watched her cross the courtyard, I wondered what she meant.

Three

"I WILL SEND a driver to get you