Darkness Revenged

By Sarri Morin

Marcia Winters always thought she understood the man she hopes will one day be her husband. She has nearly lost him once and does not want it to happen again. Despite dropping everything to have a life with him, she is still waiting for him to commit. But that is not her only challenge. Now an old enemy has returned and is taking over her nights. Even worse yet, Marcia has a foreboding feeling that something very bad is about to happen.

Donovan OHara is a retired cop who moved to Ireland to protect his friends and his lover, Marcia. While he is embroiled in an internal struggle as to whether he can be the man Marcia desires, he is attacked by a giant beast. After Donovan realizes that someone from their past is hunting them again, he must rely on help to destroy their enemies. But as he is about to discover, one vampire with the strength of an ancient is prepared to stop at nothing to attain vengeance. Now only time will tell if Marcia can forgive the past and whether Donovon can live with his choices.

In this continuing supernatural tale, a young woman and her immortal lover must battle an evil presence seeking justice while attempting to move forward in their relationship.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Oct 6, 2016
• ISBN: 9781532006715

Sarri Morin

Sarri Morin is a happily married mother of two boys. She is an active volunteer in her community and is currently pursuing a career as a paralegal. In her spare time, Sarri enjoys playing hockey. She lives in the township of Uxbridge, Ontario, where she is hard at work on her next book. For more about Sarri and her vampire series, visit http://www.sarrimorin.com.

Book preview

Darkness

Revenged

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SARRI MORIN

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DARKNESS REVENGED

Copyright © 2016 Sarri Morin.

Cover background photo taken by Sarri Morin and designed by Chris Morin

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

iUniverse

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Bloomington, IN 47403

www.iuniverse.com

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Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Cover background photo taken by Sarri Morin and designed by Chris Morin

ISBN: 978-1-5320-0672-2 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5320-0671-5 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2016916162

iUniverse rev. date: 10/04/2016

Contents

chapter 1

chapter 2

chapter 3

chapter 4

chapter 5

chapter 6

chapter 7

chapter 8

chapter 9

chapter 10

chapter 11

chapter 12

chapter 13

chapter 14

chapter 15

chapter 16

chapter 17

chapter 18

chapter 19

chapter 20

chapter 21

chapter 22

chapter 23

chapter 24

chapter 25

chapter 1

chapter 2

chapter 3

This is dedicated to my husband Chris for all his love and support. Without his unending encouragement this dream would not be possible.

For my two awesome boys Sebastian and Connor; who are always full of suggestions thanks for all of your enthusiasm. I would also like to thank my sister Barb and my girlfriends Dina and Victoria, without their support and feedback my dream wouldn’t be a reality. A special thank you for my friend Denbeigh, who let me borrow her name.

For my parents; thank you for your continued backing

and unending motivation to keep going through all the good and difficult times I love you all.

For my fans, I hope you enjoy this book as much as you enjoyed Darkness Embraced. I couldn’t do this without all of you and your dedication. Without you, I would have no one to share my stories with.

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart

chapter 1

M arcia tossed and turned. The beads of sweat had continued to form until her nightgown clung to her body and her hair had flattened and pressed against her face. Her breaths were shallow and quick. Her hands were clenching into fists as they crumpled the sheets and she pulled them free from corner of her mattress. Marcia’s eyes flew open, her normally sparkling eyes were now fear stricken and her pupils were dilated, as tears started to form. Dark circles had formed as she wiped the water from her swollen, puffy eyes. She swung her legs over the side of her bed, wishing that Donovan was here with her. Her heart ached as loneliness crept in and she pulled her shaking body from her bed.

What started as a lovemaking dream between her and Donovan ended with a bloodstained, dying Donovan and evil living Jonah. Marcia grabbed her terry cloth bathrobe and put it on. Sliding into her slippers she pressed her trembling hand and her ear against the massive wooden door; listening attentively, ensuring no one was out of bed. She slowly opened the door, looking down the long, dark hallway. Making sure no one was around she tiptoed to Donovan’s room. She opened the door to his room and looked over at him longingly. She hesitated. Instinctively she wanted to go and lie down next to him, then she thought the better of it. She reluctantly pulled herself away from his room. Closing the door behind herself she leaned against the door. Marcia took several deep breaths before she reluctantly pulled away from the door and walked back to her room. Marcia climbed back into her bed she lay on her back and. tried to close her eyes to go back to sleep.

Marcia was restless. Her brain and imagination were working overtime. Why can’t I let this go? This is going to be the death of me. This has to stop damn it. Marcia thought to herself as she turned on her side again. An hour had gone by and Marcia was still awake. Now she was not only angry that Jonah was invading her dreams, but he was also taking over her nights. This is ridiculous. This has been going for a couple of weeks now. Sooner or later she would need to get some serious help. This was supposed to be her new life, she was supposed to feel safe, she thought to herself as she threw off the covers and got up and walked over to the hearth to put another log into the fire. Maybe a nice cup of warm milk will help get me back to sleep, she thought to herself as she poked away at the fire. Once Marcia got the fire to where she wanted to be, she went to the door and looked down the dim lit hallway. It really was eerie looking— after all she had been through. Marcia shivered once and then hesitantly left the safety of her room. Quietly she walked through the corridor, as quietly as mouse. She walked down the winding stairs and into the kitchen. Marcia placed her hand on the wall feeling around for the light switch and flicked it on, then she walked over to the fridge, grabbed some milk and filled the glass that she spied on the counter. Marcia put the milk into the microwave and waited for it to stop. Marcia grabbed the milk and sat at the table. Marcia sat with her head in hand and leaned on her elbow, as she nursed her milk. Eventually she fell asleep that way.

Marcia? Marcia, wake up. What are you doing down here?" Donovan asked as he shook her gently, so he wouldn’t scare her. Marcia jolted awake and almost fell off of her chair. She looked around to get her bearings and realized where she was.

I must have fallen asleep, she said through a yawn.

What are you doing down here? Donovan asked again.

I had a bad dream, I couldn’t sleep so I came to get some warm milk, she answered.

Marcia, you have been having these bad dreams for a while, what are they about? Why won’t you talk to me about them? Maybe I can help, Donovan said a little harsher then he intended. Marcia pondered his words as she pulled herself away from the table. She walked to the sink and rinsed her glass. She was avoiding him deliberately, Donovan knew from her fidgeting and avoidance. Walking over to her, he grabbed her hands and looked into those beautiful blue eyes.

Tell me what is going on Marcia, I can help. I want to help, Donovan said with pleading in his voice.

It was Jonah, he was… Marcia broke off. Something very bad is going happen, I can feel all the way to my bones, she whispered. Donovan brought his hand to her chin, forcing her to look at him. Without saying a word, his eyes demanded that she tell him what was going on. Marcia couldn’t resist the concern and the demand in his eyes.

The dream started off nice, it was about me and you…then Jonah came and there was a huge fight, lots of stuff happening…everyone was there… she said coolly. Then he was coming after me, you stepped in his path. Her tears were streaming steadily now. He killed you, as I watched, frozen in place. There was so much blood, everywhere. It was everywhere. She tried to pull away but Donovan held firm.

Go on, it’s okay, Marcia. Let me help. Look, I’m here and I’m alive. We all knew that when we came out here that Jonah was still alive. The reality is he won’t stop and there is no telling when he will strike, but we can’t live in fear. You need to know that I will do everything in my power to keep you safe. This maybe Corin’s’ place but your mine to protect not his, Donovan said protectively. As he pulled her close and captured her mouth, his fingers caressing her face wiping away any reminisce of her tears.

Let’s go back upstairs and get some sleep, he grabbed her hand and started to lead her out of the kitchen and back to her room where he pulled her close and they drifted off to sleep.

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Vampires. When is that bastard Jonah going to strike? Marcia thought to herself while rubbing her hands up and down her arms to trying to warm her skin, the hint of a cool breeze was in the air. She hated that she had been so—so melancholy lately. Things that shouldn’t be eating at me are. Maybe that’s why my nights are plagued by Jonah, she thought to herself. Marcia lifted her face to the smell of the salt air and she inhaled, taking a deep breath. The calm and breath taking beauty of the sea where she was made her feel an inner quiet. She couldn’t quite explain why she felt like this but it was the most relaxed she felt in a while. She loved coming here, it was so tranquil here. One day I am going to have to bring Donovan here, she mused she hung her head and smiled inwardly.

Marcia knew her life and the lives of her friends would never be the same, at least not until Jonah could be found and destroyed memories of the events that happened several years ago were still fresh in her mind. Marcia closed her eyes and thought about her new life. Marcia had sorted through her feelings, she knew she had some anger issues to deal with, but she got through those. She had gotten over being left in the dark about everything until things pretty much exploded. It has been five years and she has had plenty of time to forgive and forget things, she has moved on with her life and so have her friends. Her life here in Ireland has been good, she has everything. Almost. Donovan still hasn’t clued in that she dropped her life for him. I would give up everything — living in Corin’s home, if that is what was needed, just as long as Donovan comes with me. Why can’t he see that I love him and I want to be his wife? I just don’t get it, she said out loud. Time to buck up Marcia, grudges be damned and get past my fear. It’s decided then girl, time to smarten up. Everything is in the past, what’s done is done. Today is the day that I turn over a new leaf. Marcia thought to herself and inhaled deeply. Marcia walked along, making sure to take every opportunity to enjoy the grounds, the lush scenery. She especially enjoyed the high cliffs, which overlooked the sea. Life is precious, that lesson she learned the hard way and it was one she would not forget. The world was far too beautiful and life was something to be cherished; she really couldn’t ask for anything more. Well…she could, and she was getting restless.

When is Donovan going to pop the question? she asked looking up into the heavens. Realizing what her problem was. Donovan. Did he even know how much she gave up for him, how much she wanted a family? The biggest question was did he know that Marcia was secretly dying inside because she had met the man of her dreams and she was ready to commit to him.

Marcia shook her head as she came back down to reality. She had worked for a while, you know so she could have a somewhat normal life. However, the effort was futile, especially since Corin never denied her access to money that she needed. Anyone else would consider this lifestyle a blessing, a never-ending supply of money, food on the table, a home—an exquisite home at that. She had a place to live in, and yes, even servants. Who could ask for anything more? Marcia. That’s who. Marcia desperately wanted her own family, a husband, some children, even her own home. She wanted Donovan. He hasn’t done a damn thing, just then a terrible thought entered her mind. Maybe Donovan isn’t interested in me, well, in a committing kind of way. The thought hit her like a ton of bricks bringing tears to her eyes and a sickening feeling to her stomach.

Forcing the ugly thought away, she took a deep relaxing breath, allowing the salt air seep into her lungs, while she let the mist from the sea envelope her. This was her thinking spot. Especially after last night she just wanted to relax, that dream really rattled her last night. Although she had to admit she did enjoy the part where she was in the comfort of Donovan’s strong arms; she felt…safe.

Marcia was so involved with her thoughts that she hadn’t realized how much time had passed. When she looked up into the sky, the sun was hanging dangerously low. Corin and Josephine will be up soon. I should be heading back, she thought to herself. Yet the stubborn side of her insisted that she sit and enjoy the sunset. Marcia plopped herself down on a flat rock that over looked the sea; pulling her knees to her chest she held them in place with her arms. Marcia turned her face upward toward the sky, and admired the multiple colors that filled the sky., The haze of orange and the light shades of purple, that blended with fading orange was so serene. As the big, orange ball in the sky, sank lower and lower the light that was glistening on the surface of the Irish Sea was starting to recess back farther and farther into the horizon. Finally, when the suns’ rays had completely vanished from the world, Marcia decided that she would head back home.

Marcia slowly stood up on the rock stretching her arms high above her head. A shiver ran down her spine and all the hairs on her neck stood up. There was a sickening feeling in the pit of her stomach. She rubbed her arms to try and alleviate the goose bumps that had erupted over her body. She felt as if someone or something was watching her. Squinting her eyes she searched the area around her, she saw nothing but dark shadows. Still that feeling coursed through every fiber of her being, even though she couldn’t define what she felt she knew better then to ignore her instincts. Grabbing her keys from her front pocket, while doing a quick jog back to her car Marcia clicked the key fob opened the door with her already available key and got in. Before she did anything else, she locked her doors and then started the engine.

Marcia headed back to the castle at full speed. Ballyclare, it was once in ruins, however thanks to Corin, it was now fully restored. It was her home now. It was spacious and beautifully decorated. There were Persian rugs in the rooms and furniture that looked as if it were right out of the medieval times. High wooden back chairs, huge fireplaces in all the rooms, massive wooden doors, and huge windows, colorful tapestries hung from the walls. In a word— beautiful. There were some modern decorations as well, like the crystal chandelier that hung in the dining room, the soft, plush sofas that were pretty much in every room downstairs. Even the drapery was stunning. Then there were the gardens, they were breath-taking. No words could describe their beauty. Corin definitely has an eye for beauty. Marcia loved living in her new home, as a matter fact she really was very thankful, not once in her life did she ever envision herself living in such luxury.

Finally home, Marcia thought to herself as she parked her car. Walking up the driveway to the front door, she stopped. Instead of opening the door, she raised her face and looked up into the night sky. Noticing that the wind had picked up significantly and that the breeze was rather chilly she found herself rubbing her arms to try to warm herself. Marcia’s hair was blowing wildly yet it flowed gracefully behind her. Marcia wanted desperately to go inside, but she couldn’t. Something was drawing her attention, preventing her from opening the door. She wasn’t sure, but it felt as if something in the night was calling to her, it was on the wind. It was a compulsion.

Marcia, what are you doing? Get inside, you’re freezing. Donovan’s voice broke the pull. He stepped out to bring her into the shelter of his arms. It was the warmth of his voice that penetrated the compulsion on the howling wind and the heat of his touch to her cooling skin that brought her back into focus.

What? What did you say? Marcia repeated, as Donovan walked her inside to the warmth of the castle. He guided her over to what was loving named the Sitting Room. Marcia was tucked underneath Donovan’s shoulder as they walked to the front of the fireplace so she could warm her body.

I asked you, what you were doing outside, he stated.

I was planning on coming in. I guess… she trailed off. I’m not sure what happened. It’s no biggie. Besides, I’m inside now. I’m all for the warming me up part," Marcia said, as the curves of a seductive smile started to show on her face. Donovan pulled Marcia towards him and held her there so she could feel his body, all of him. He was just about to kiss her when he was distracted by the presence of people.

Hum hum, Josephine said with a smile on her face.

Donovan turned, trying to hide the color that rose to his cheeks, to face Corin and Josephine. They were standing in the doorway; the smile that curved Josephine’s lips took up her whole face. Corin stood there, trying to look serious, towering over her with his arms embraced around her waist. However, the small smirk on his face said it all.

You both look…um… nice and cozy, Josephine said. The laughter in her voice was evident. Marcia couldn’t help but blush.

Well, we certainly could’ve gotten a bit cozier, but we were interrupted, Donovan said huskily, with heartfelt laugh. Marcia nudged him, hard, in his side.

Shush! She muttered under her breath so only he could hear. Corin burst out laughing as he watched the whole scene transpire.

We just wanted to check in with you and make sure you were alright, Corin said.

We also wanted to know how the boys were today, Josephine quickly added.

The boys are good. They have already eaten and Mallory is with Alex, I left Charlie upstairs in his room, he was playing on the play station, Donovan said.

Well then we’ll leave you two love birds alone, Josephine said with a smile.

That could prove to be dangerous, little one, Corin said as he gathered her into his arms of steel, finding it difficult to resist those luscious lips of hers Corin brought his mouth to hers. Josephine obliged his kiss, but quickly, reluctantly pulled herself away. Turning to Marcia and Donovan, she excused Corin and herself. Hurrying off to see Mallory, she dragged Corin behind her.

Donovan grabbed Marcia and pulled her close to him. When she looked up into his eyes all she saw was pure hunger.

Now Corin had the right idea, he said as he lowered his head to meet Marcia and those voluptuous lips of hers. Teasingly, seductively, he traced her lips with his tongue, and then slowly he pushed his tongue into her accepting, warm mouth, exploring her, tasting her. When he deepened his kiss, she met his desire.

Marcia’s body went limp from his kiss, her knees threatened to buckle. She wanted more, so much more. She matched his passion, his aggressiveness and she went a step further. Letting her hands fall from around his neck, she guided her hands to the waist of his pants. She pulled out his shirt, letting her hands find their way up his muscular torso. Her hands memorized the shape of his hardened abs and his pectoral muscles and as her hands caressed his hardened nipples, she heard his breath catch. Then moving her hands to his back, she started the whole process again, from the small of his back, feeling and picturing the hard formed muscles. Donovan’s body reacted to her touch, his loin being ever responsive.

Donovan we can’t do this here, not in this room, Marcia breathed the words into his mouth as she continued kissing him.

Without stopping, Donovan scooped her up into his arms and carried her through the sitting room and up the winding staircase. He held her close to his chest so that he could feel her breasts pressing against him. He walked down the hall and to her room; he opened the door and quickly closed it behind him. Once in the room he let her slide to floor. She stood in front of him and while he caught his breath. Marcia took advantage of the situation and indulged herself.

She was undoing the buttons on his shirt and it fell open allowing her to stare at his chest. She admired the way his body looked. He had the most beautiful body she had ever laid eyes on. Not that she had seen many, since she was still a virgin, diligently waiting for the right man. Well I certainly found Mr. Right, she thought to herself, placing her hands flat on his chest she began to caress him, her hand found him, hard and ready to take her. Things were definitely going to be different.

Donovan walked with her, gently urging her backwards until her legs were against her bed. Donovan ushered her to sit down, when she was on the bed looking up at him with those magnificent eyes of hers, Donovan laid her back. He was undoing the string that was holding her shirt together. The shirt although sexy enough, closed under her breasts and the rest of the shirt-stayed open exposing her flat, smooth, stomach. It was too much clothing for his liking. When he finally attained his goal, her sexy lace bra and perfectly sculpted breasts were exposed for him to view. Donovan positioned himself so that he was he was between her legs as he kissed and nipped at her taut nipple through her bra. His mouth moved from one breast to the other while her fingers ran through his hair. Donovan groaned. In one quick movement Donovan moved her legs on to her bed and nestled himself between them. Cupping one of her breasts his mouth found hers. He grabbed her bottom lip with his teeth, he sucked on it for a moment, and then his tongue found hers. Then he started all over again, only this time his hand was moving over her, desperately exploring her, feeling the silky softness of her skin. His hand found its way up to her breasts; he tore away the useless material and he cupped the lightweight of her breast. Marcia let out a soft groan, wanting more; she arched her back forcing her exposed breast into his ravenous mouth. Unable to stop, and wanting to be inside her hot, moist secret place, Donovan placed himself on top of her, rubbing his groin against her. Marcia opened her legs, an invitation to take her. A low moan escaped him.

As Donovan continued to push against her, he looked down at her, amazed that he could actually be part of her life. He took a moment to admire her, worship her body. He could see her erected pink nipples as they beckoned to be licked. Donovan couldn’t help but lick his lips. In that moment Donovan realized how much he, wanted Marcia, how he wanted to be inside her, how he needed to be inside her. He wanted to feel her wonderful, tight, slick, body contracting around his, milking him as he came. He was imagining how sweet she would taste. He wanted her and his body was screaming at him to take her. His mind on the other hand was fighting a battle. He was trying to subdue his hunger. Trying to be the man that he thought she needed him to be.

They had discussed this. Marcia was not experienced and she wanted to wait for the right man. In Donovan’s mind there was no question, he was that man. Out of respect for Marcia, he had agreed to wait for her and until they were married but every time they got into each other, things just went way out of control.

Marcia, I don’t know how much longer I can hold out, he said. His voice was husky, sexy. He wanted her and he could barely hold on.

Donovan, I’ve been thinking. If you don’t want to wait, we don’t have to. It’s silly. I want you and I want to be with you, I don’t think things are going to change between us, there was a subtle hint of sadness in her tone. Donovan had heard it.

Marcia, are you really ready for me? Ready to commit yourself to me? You know after Vancouver I thought you were never going to forgive me. I thought I was going to lose you, Donovan admitted his voice was low and full of regret.

Donovan, you’re such big jerk, how can you say that? When I saw you lying there motionless, blood oozing from you, I believed you to be dead, my heart broke, her words were choked. With the heat of the moment lost she wanted to squirm from under him. I was angry with you for the deception, hell I was mad at everyone. Mallory knew the truth about Corin and said nothing and neither did Josephine for that matter. I needed time to cool off, everything happened so damn fast. The next thing I knew we are all moving here…to Ireland. ! Everything, everyone I ever knew was gone, forever. It was a lot to digest. I needed time. Marcia said admittedly.

Are you not happy here? I’m sure Corin and Josephine will understand if you want to move out and get a place of your own, hell he’ll probably have a guest house built somewhere on his many acres of land. If that is what you want we can ask him. Donovan said with a hint of concern in his voice.

No, we don’t have to move. I’m fine here. I’ve adjusted. As for your question, yes I can commit to you. What do you think I’ve been waiting for? When you didn’t ask I naturally assumed you weren’t going to or you just didn’t feel the same way about me. I figured you were happy being unmarried. So I came to terms with it. Marcia said with a hurt voice. I know we had discussed waiting until I/we were married, it just seemed like forever, so I just assumed you weren’t going to ask, and then I just chalked up our conversations to you being a gentleman and agreeing with me, Marcia said as she turned her face, when she realized how silly her assumption was.

I think we have to work on our communication skills, Donovan said, trying to lighten the mood. Donovan bent down to kiss her and helped clothe her scantily clad body. When he finished dressing her, he pulled himself up, walked over to the fireplace, and started a fire. I’m sorry I ruined the moment. Want to try again? He had a boyish grin on his face, the one she usually couldn’t resist.

No, you really blew the mood. How about you just come and snuggle with me. I really just want to be in your arms right now. Just you, holding me close, not drive me completely insane. Think you can do that? Marcia said with a sultry voice that would drive any man crazy with lustful thoughts. Once Donovan was sure the fire was set he walked over to the bed with his shirt still undone, taking his rightful place beside his vixen Marcia, he pulled her close; she nuzzled his neck with her head and placed her hand on his very masculine chest. They remained in that position and fell asleep.

About an hour or so later there was a knock on the door. Marcia jumped at the sound and then lazily walked herself over to the door and opened it. Josephine was there and looked as pale as ever. Both of you have to come downstairs. It’s finally started.

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chapter 2

W hat? What’s started? Marcia asked. There was a knot already forming in her stomach, she already knew the answer. I’ll get Donovan." Marcia said as she watched her friend turn away. Josephine nodded her head and turned away walking quickly downstairs to where Mallory and Corin were waiting.

Donovan, get up, Marcia said as she shook him from his slumber.

What? What’s the problem? Donovan said lazily as he stretched out and yawned.

Josephine just came and got me, told me to get you and come downstairs. Josephine said it’s started, Marcia was muttering a slew of silent curse words

What’s started? Donovan said as he walked over to Marcia and grabbed her by her slender shoulders. What are you talking about? He said again, although he was patient his frustration was showing.

I think Jonah is back, she blurted out.

Why would you say that? Donovan asked.

When I was out earlier, I felt something. I couldn’t place and I certainly couldn’t name it. It started when I was at the cliffs. When I started to feel uneasy, I got in the car and came home. Then when I was coming up to the house, something stopped me. It was as if the wind was calling to me. Then you came and brought me in, she said. Marcia struggled to pull free from his massive hands.

You didn’t say anything to me and I know you didn’t say anything to Josephine so how can that be. Why are you so sure? Donovan asked.

I don’t know. It’s a gut feeling. That’s all I can say. Maybe what Josephine has to say is not about that. Maybe something else happened. Maybe it’s Charlie or Alex. Marcia’s voice went up an octave as fear and panic started to sweep over her.

Calm down, babe. Maybe it’s nothing. Maybe they want to tell us to get the hell out. Maybe they are going to catch a movie. Don’t stress yourself. Donovan said trying to lighten the mood. Donovan knew better. Something was going down; he felt it in his gut.,. Donovan did up his shirt, he didn’t bother tucking it in he just grabbed Marcia by the hand and left the room. When they reached the bottom of the staircase, he saw Josephine and Corin, Mallory and the boys.

We’re here, he announced casually.

Corin took the lead and headed towards the sitting room. When everyone was settled and the boys tucked over in the play area and out of hearing range. Corin was the one to start the conversation.

While Josephine and I slept I felt a disturbance. Nothing should be able to disturb our sleep yet somehow I was awakened by this strange phenomena, when I went seeking the disturbance out I felt a surge of power. The only person that could cause this is Jonah. He is back. When Josephine rose, I explained what had been going on, we then made rounds checking in on everyone and ensuring all was well. I went out alone after that and tried to trace the disturbance back to its origins. There was a pause. "I couldn’t find it. Silence. That could only mean one thing; Jonah has gained in strength.

How can you be sure it’s him? Donovan asked.

When I scanned the surrounding area, I found a trail of power. Although very faint, I was able to pursue it. The source was Jonah; he has now managed the art of shielding himself from me. Corin stated. Everyone stayed quiet while the reality of the situation took hold of everyone.

I knew it, I just knew Marcia exclaimed. She certainly got everyone’s attention. Everyone turned and stared in silence.

You know what? Josephine inquired gently.

I knew something was off. I was out earlier, over by the cliffs; I felt strange, like someone or something was there, I didn’t know at the time, but now everything seems to fit. At the time, all I knew was that I was scared, scared enough to make me run for the car. When I got home I was at the door, but I didn’t come straight in, I stopped. There was no reason for it, at the same time I felt… Marcia she stooped as she searched for the right word. It felt like a compulsion to go out and away from the door; it was on the wind. The only reason I didn’t go was because Donovan called to me, he snapped me out of whatever it was. I didn’t think anything of it until you came to my room and said ‘it’s started’ that’s when it hit me, she explained anxiously.

What do we do now Corin? Mallory asked, in a calm even tone.

I am not sure. I do not know what he is up to, and I have not found him yet, Corin stated truthfully.

What do mean, you don’t know? Aren’t you supposed to be hunting him; I mean you did when you were in Vancouver, what has changed? We came here because you said you could protect us. It’s not only Josephine at stake, all of us are. Mallory stated without reprimand in her voice.

Mallory! Josephine snapped.

"Don’t worry little one, Mallory is right. I stopped hunting when I knew you were here with your family and safe in my keeping.

Where’s my mother? She asked suddenly distracted by her absence. Everyone just looked around the room and shrugged.

I didn’t find her, I assumed you guys did, Mallory stated.

We didn’t find her; we went and got Marcia, Donovan and the boys, Josephine said worriedly.

I don’t think she has been taken, she is probably still in the castle somewhere. Don’t forget this is a big place she could be anywhere, Donovan said calmly. Hoping to aleve the anxiety that he knew Josephine was feeling.

He is right little one, I have not felt any power in our home and Jonah would not be able to enter unless he was invited in. I am sure your mother did no such thing. Let us gather the boys, and each of us will take a wing. Once we have completed a thorough search we will venture outside and search the grounds. Josephine nodded in agreement.

It took roughly and hour or so to search the entire castle and no one found Rachel.

Although Josephine was trying to keep a cool and calm exterior, everyone knew different. Corin and Donovan designed a search pattern for the grounds. The first thing they did was to ensure all vehicles were accounted for. When that was done they each took separate ways and searched the grounds. Mallory found Rachel. She was on the northern side of the castle, and Rachel was just sitting, relaxing in the beautiful garden, admiring all the plants and flowers. Mallory walked up to her slowly and called to her softly so she didn’t want to frighten her.

Rachel? She called out gently. Rachel turned and saw Mallory approaching, she got up and started to walk towards her. They met half way.

Hi Mallory, what are you doing out here alone? Rachel asked sweetly, although Mallory knew it was a subtle reprimand.

"I should ask you the same thing. You have everybody worried about you. Josephine looks like she is going to pass