The Final Formula Collection: Volume Three

By Becca Andre

Find out what happens next in the Final Formula Series. This time, James and Elysia meet her twisted ancestor and Addie gets help from an old...friend.

The Final Formula Collection, Volume Three includes:

The Heir of Death (Book 3.5)

Elysia Mallory has never embraced her magic, not when doing so comes at the price of her sanity. Her family is cursed with bizarre necromantic gifts that have driven each recipient mad, and she doesn’t want to be another dead branch on the family tree.

But when Elysia learns that an ancestor is still in the mortal world and using his rare gift to possess the Deacon, the leader of the necromancer community, she decides it’s time to take control of the power she was given. Will her gift give her the ability to right a wrong centuries in the making? Or will she become another puppet for him to control?

***

The Catalyst of Corruption (Book 4)

Addie Daulton wants nothing to do with her dark past as an Alchemica alchemist. Content with her new life surrounded by the people she cares about, she has chosen to live with amnesia rather than face the person she was. She focuses on alchemy’s healing properties, helping others and hoping to find a way to save Rowan before his magic consumes him.

But Addie isn’t the only one with a dark history. Her lab partner, Ian Mallory has just had his past resurrected in the form of his brother. Alexander is a powerful necromancer who has been secretly leading the necromancer community for centuries. He’s not the type to share his power, and certainly not with the Flame Lord.

Addie must watch helplessly as Rowan struggles to maintain control of both his volatile magic and his influence in magical politics. Meanwhile, flashbacks tease her, suggesting that the solution to all their problems lies in her past. Unwilling to reclaim her memories, Addie must find another way to learn what she was studying at the Alchemica. Unfortunately, the only person who knows is her former colleague, Neil Dunstan. The question now becomes: how far is she willing to go to save the man she loves?

THE FINAL FORMULA SERIES READING ORDER

The Final Formula
The Element of Death
The Blood Alchemist
The Necromancer’s Betrayal
The Alchemist’s Flame
The Heir of Death
The Catalyst of Corruption
The Bonds of Blood
The Fifth Essence

Blood Gifts (A Prequel Story)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Becca Andre
• Release date: Jul 2, 2020
• ISBN: 9781005260316

Becca Andre

Becca Andre lives in southern Ohio with her husband, two children, and an elderly Jack Russell Terrier. A love of science and math (yes, she’s weird like that), led to a career as a chemist where she blows things up far more infrequently than you’d expect. Other interests include: chocolate, hard rock, and slaying things on the Xbox. She also finds writing about herself in third person a bit strange.

Book preview

The Heir of Death

Chapter 1

Elysia stepped out of the room and tried to pretend that the door closing behind her didn’t sound so final. This was the last of the job interviews—and the one she thought the most promising. Apparently, she was wrong. The woman interviewing her had done little more than glance at her sparse résumé before sending her on her way. Lifting her chin, she steeled herself to deliver the bad news and walked down the hall toward the small lobby.

James rose to his feet and picked up her wool coat from the plastic chair beside his. Circling the receptionist’s counter, he met her at the elevator. Not good? he asked, helping her with the coat. Had he read her expression, or had he come to expect failure?

No experience. It had become a theme at every job interview over the past few weeks. She jabbed the down button on the panel beside the elevator. How can I get experience if no one will hire me?

Someone will recognize your worth eventually. He took her hand.

His warm palm pressed against hers and her spirits lifted. She looked up, meeting his gaze, and saw his sincerity. He was the one sane thing in her insane life right now. Although a relationship with him was all kinds of crazy. Not that logic ever came into play where James was involved.

The elevator arrived. Elysia considered pulling James inside for a quick kiss. Unfortunately, the elevator was occupied by an older woman in a rumpled pantsuit.

Still hand-in-hand, Elysia paused long enough to hit the lobby button, then retreated to the corner of the car with James.

The woman turned to watch them. Her fair eyes settled on James, and she lifted her brows.

Elysia wasn’t surprised. With his dark hair, vivid green eyes, and easy smile, James frequently attracted the attention of the opposite sex—though he rarely seemed to notice.

The elevator door slid closed, but the woman’s gaze didn’t move away from James. Elysia was about to say something when James pulled in a breath. Suddenly, she felt the brush of another necromancer’s touch along the bond that linked her and James. The woman’s eyes had lightened a few shades.

Not bothering with subtlety, Elysia slammed her full power into James, getting a gasp from him and the woman. Elysia fed him her soul until she knew her own eyes were completely white. Then she released him.

The woman took a hasty step away from her, no doubt noticing the way Elysia’s eyes reverted from white to her natural brown in an instant—the hallmark of an exceptionally powerful necromancer. The woman’s own eyes by contrast were still faded.

Touch him again and I will Make you, Elysia whispered.

The woman turned to the control panel, punching several buttons until she got the one she wanted. The elevator stopped and the doors slid open. The woman backed through them, her eyes falling to Elysia and James’s clasped hands.

Necrophile. She hurried away.

Elysia frowned after her until the elevator closed. She got the necrophile comment a lot from other necromancers, even her own family—though they never used that word. Aware of the silence, she glanced up at James. I probably shouldn’t have done that.

I thought it was cool.

She lifted a brow.

A slow grin spread across his face, and he leaned against the elevator wall, his black leather jacket creaking faintly. You’re sexy when you go all badass like that.

Her cheeks heated. Yeah?

Hell, yeah. He pulled her to him, then bent down and took her mouth with his.

She wrapped her arms around his shoulders and kissed him back. Other necromancers couldn’t understand her attraction to James because no necromancer ever saw the dead as anything besides an object to be controlled. James might be dead, but he wasn’t a walking corpse. He was a grim: a shapeshifter animated by hellhound blood. In most ways, his body was alive. He ate. He slept. He had even grown to adulthood. All he lacked was a heartbeat—and a soul. At least on the mortal plane.

The elevator slowed and Elysia stepped out of his arms.

James watched her like the predator he was, his green eyes glowing faintly where his magic had responded to hers, like to like. Their intense magical compatibility was the only thing that stood between them. Elysia didn’t know where the magic ended and her true feeling began. But after spending most of the last month around him, she was beginning to believe that the magic wasn’t as big a factor as it seemed. Not a deciding factor, anyway.

Hand-in-hand, they left the elevator, then the building. They walked the two blocks to the parking garage in silence. Had she been on her own, she would have found a parking spot on the street, but with James at her side, the dimly lit garage didn’t make her uneasy. A pair of men walking toward them crossed to the far side of the aisle, and she bit her lip. On some level, even the non-magical sensed the predator in James.

He pulled the keys from his pocket, and the headlights flashed on the black Charger two spaces away. The car wasn’t just painted black. The windows were tinted nearly as dark as the paint job, black lenses covered the headlights, and even the rims were black. The car was dark, dangerous, and sexy—like its owner.

James opened her door and waited until she slid inside before he circled around and got in behind the wheel. He was a study in contrasts. He dressed like a bad boy, but he was actually a gentleman. As a grim, he was the most lethal predator in the magical world, yet every day, he joined her at the hospital to visit the orphaned infant they had saved. The baby was the reason she’d had a job interview everyday this week.

She leaned her head against the seat. If I can’t find a decent job, this isn’t going to work.

James slid the key in the ignition, but he didn’t start the car. Don’t quit before you begin.

I’m not quitting. I’m reconciling myself to the likely outcome.

Cora’s working on the legal end of things. She’s good.

Good or not, no one is going to let a twenty-six-year-old, unemployed single woman who has never worked anywhere other than a bar, adopt a baby.

Cora was about your age when she adopted Era.

She was a lawyer, and apparently, well-off even then. I don’t even have a place of my own.

He started the car. It’ll work out.

She wished she had his faith.

James put the car in gear. Off to the cemetery?

Elysia groaned and slumped in her seat. Yes. Time for her daily necromancy lesson.

James gave her knee a squeeze before he moved his hand to the steering wheel and drove toward the exit.

Greenwood Cemetery was a small, rural graveyard just outside Cincinnati. Traffic had been heavy on the drive out of town, and the sun was dipping toward the western horizon when James pulled onto the single-lane gravel road that wove through the headstones. It was an older graveyard, but well kept. Though a bit out the way. It had taken the better part of an hour to get here.

James stopped the car along the grass verge, and shut off the engine. Wondering why her mentor had chosen this place, Elysia opened the door and climbed out. James joined her a moment later, quietly standing beside her as she surveyed the area. Were they early? She started to ask when movement drew her attention to the other side of the cemetery. Ian emerged from behind a large monument. He trailed his fingers along the dark stone as he passed, but didn’t glance up at the white marble angel kneeling on the pedestal.

The brisk March wind caught Ian’s shoulder-length golden hair—a color he and Elysia shared—and pushed it away from his strikingly handsome face. It was hard to believe that nine generations separated them. He didn’t look much older than her—his appearance was the result of the Final Formula, the Elixir of Life. Ian was a lich: an animated corpse with his consciousness still attached. Ian was also an alchemist, though he hadn’t designed the Final Formula, he had been fortunate to befriend the woman who had. Most liches his age would be little more than bones.

Elysia stuffed her hands in her pockets to keep herself from fidgeting. Even now, several weeks after discovering that he still walked the earth, Ian’s presence made her uneasy. She had come to terms with the curse he had placed on her family. The alchemical potion Ian had designed had been an act of vengeance against the man who had stolen his daughter. Ian had never intended for the potion to affect their offspring, but it had—even two hundred years later.

Elysia walked out to meet him, aware of James following behind. James didn’t trust Ian, but he understood the need for Elysia to learn her magic. It should embarrass her that she needed instruction, she was well past an age when most necromancers would be learning their craft, but the threat of insanity had always deterred her from using her gift. Was she tempting fate to learn it now?

I can see by your countenance that you weren’t given the job, Ian said when they met among the worn headstones.

It unsettled her that he could read her so well, but she tried to hide it with a shrug. There will be others.

Perhaps I should accompany you to serve as a reference.

She eyed his old-fashioned clothing, touched in spite of his cool tone. Thank you, but I don’t think it would impress them if I needed my grandfather to speak for me. He was actually her seven-times-over great grandfather, but referring to him as simply her grandfather was easier.

Yet the boy accompanies you. Ian gestured at James.

James drives me there. He doesn’t go into the interview with me.

Who would hire someone who couldn’t even speak for herself? James took a seat on a nearby headstone.

What will you be teaching me today? she asked Ian before the two men could start arguing. Like everyone else in her family, Ian didn’t approve of her relationship with James.

Ian stopped frowning at James and turned his attention to her. I want you to find every body in this graveyard and animate all of them at the same time.

Elysia lifted a brow. Are you serious?

You are more than capable.

Exactly. This is a child’s game. Literally. Young necromancers were encouraged to build up their strength through such exercises.

Then you should have no trouble with the task. He lifted his arms, gesturing at the cemetery around them.

Elysia fisted her hands within her jacket pockets and closed her eyes. She had learned quickly that it was pointless to argue with him. He never backed down.

She released her soul and it flew free, seeking the dead around them. The anxiety that had plagued her all afternoon left her body along with her power. She struggled to maintain a serene countenance as pleasure replaced the discomfort. A necromancer must use his or her magic, or the pressure built to the point of pain. For the powerful, it could be debilitating. But releasing the pent up power was the opposite. She was glad James had moved away from her. If she caught his scent now, she—

Is that all of them? Ian’s voice interrupted the fantasy growing in her mind.

She opened her eyes, aware of the heat suffusing her cheeks. Maybe he would think the rosy color was a product of the wind.

Yes, she answered.

Ian lifted a brow. You’re certain?

I’ve found all the dead in the cemetery—not counting you, of course.

Ian didn’t look amused, but James grinned at her. She had intentionally not lumped James in with the dead, even though to her senses he was as dead as Ian, as dead as the bodies in the ground around them.

You haven’t animated them all, Ian said.

What? Where? I don’t—

A black Mercedes pulled into the cemetery, gravel crunching beneath the tires. It rolled to a stop behind James’s Charger.

Elysia let the magic go, unable to completely muffle the grunt of discomfort at her soul’s return. What’s he doing here?

He called while you were out, Ian explained. I told him I was meeting you here.

James got to his feet and moved to her side. The driver’s door opened and Doug Nelson, the current Deacon’s son and her former fiancé, climbed out. He closed the door and walked across the cemetery toward them. His eyes skimmed over James and Ian before settling on her.

You’re going to give me a complex by always wanting to meet in these out of the way places. Doug smiled, the motion dimpling his cheeks. She couldn’t help but glance at Ian. He and Doug did look a lot alike, but then, Ian was Doug’s ancestor, too. Doug just didn’t know that.

We were coming out here, anyway, she said, wondering why Ian had him come here rather than meet her at the lab. Doug had been to the lab before.

Still training? Doug’s gaze shifted to Ian before returning to her. What’s the exercise?

An Easter egg hunt. She made an effort not to roll her eyes. How many dead can I find and animate at once.

Ah. Doug took in the old cemetery around them. Good location. There are quite a few unmarked graves.

She frowned. What?

Show me, Ian cut in.

To her surprise, Doug obeyed without comment. His vibrant blue eyes went white as his necromantic power flowed outward, animating the bodies in the ground around them. A moment later, he released them, his eyes immediately returning to blue. He gave no outward evidence of the painful return of his soul. He stood casually, not having twitched a muscle in the few seconds it had taken him to animate every corpse in the cemetery—even the ones she had missed.

Did I pass? Doug asked Ian, his expression somewhere between amusement and annoyance.

Yes. Ian’s gaze met hers.

Elysia crossed her arms.

You didn’t? Doug looked stunned. You have enough juice to animate every body in this cemetery twice over.

"Her juice is not the problem, Ian said. She lets the dead seduce her."

Clearly. Doug’s gaze flicked to James.

James growled, the sound soft and barely audible. The hairs on the back of her neck rose, but it wasn’t fear that tingled through her body. She resisted the urge to shiver.

Don’t start, she said to Doug. He didn’t approve of her relationship with James, either. She turned to Ian. "I’m not seduced. I got distracted by the ones I had already animated." Just because Ian no longer felt such sensations didn’t give him the right to criticize her.

You fed too much into each individual. The point of this exercise is to get in and out quickly.

So? It’s not like I need to know how to manage a horde of zombies. We’ve been at this for over two weeks. Isn’t it time you taught me to travel?

When you master the basics, we’ll delve into more advanced topics.

She glared at the clouds overhead, wanting to scream her frustration at the sky. It was a struggle to get her temper under control, but she managed. She straightened and faced Doug. What do you need?

I got you in.

James stilled beside her and even Ian stood straighter.

I’m in contention for Deacon? she asked. The Deacon was the leader of the necromantic community in the Midwest. Never in a million years would she have imagined putting herself up for Deacon—or wanting to. But she had no choice.

Yes. Doug looked as apprehensive as she felt.

How did you get your father to agree?

Doug glanced at Ian and James before answering. Father figures Alexander will never let you go.

Alexander had been the original Deacon, and though he was a lich now, he was still very much in control.

And your father will be rid of me? she asked.

Doug shifted his feet. Something like that.

Lovely. She wasn’t certain which bothered her more: that Doug’s father disliked her that much, or that he fully expected Alexander to remove the problem she represented. She had convinced herself that Alexander wouldn’t kill her, but this might be worse. Like Ian, he was her ancestor. He and Ian had a lot in common—they were twin brothers, for one.

You don’t need to do this, James spoke up. Let me taste his soul, he waved a hand at Doug, then I can soul track him to the lich’s tomb.

Back off, dead man. Doug’s eyes flickered white.

James’s snarl this time was much more vicious.

Boys, please. Elysia stepped between them and looked up to meet James’s faintly glowing eyes. I’m doing this. Don’t argue with me.

A muscle ticked in James’s jaw and he turned away.

Elysia bit her lip. She didn’t like to give him commands, but she wasn’t going to argue about this again. And certainly not in front of Doug.

When? Ian asked Doug.

She turned to face them, apprehension kicking up her pulse.

Doug took a deep breath and his eyes locked with hers. Tonight.

Chapter 2

T onight? she asked.

James spun to face them. And you waited until now to tell her?

I called as soon as I found out. Doug gestured at Ian. I was told to meet her here. Now.

Elysia pressed a hand to James’s chest, hoping she wouldn’t need to give him another command.

She’s not ready, Ian said.

I am so. She gave him a glare.

Ian lifted a brow.

Maybe I don’t know all the finer points, like how to travel, but that’s more your fault than mine. Perhaps you shouldn’t have wasted so much time making me raise entire cemeteries. She lifted her arms to indicate their surroundings.

Ian didn’t look convinced.

Doug sighed. I’ll let the grim taste my blood.

No, she said. You’re not going to face Alexander alone.

Doug gave her a small smile. He’s not going to kill me, Ely.

He’s going to possess you. That seems almost worse.

Alexander Nelson was a ghoul master, a necromancer with a rare blood gift that enabled him to possess the living. Powerful necromancers could do more than use their souls to animate and control the dead; they could also command the magic in their own blood. And when another ingested their blood, they could use that magic on them.

But Alexander’s gift was different; it worked on the living—which defied the very definition of necromancy. Only one other gift was rumored to work on the living, but the details of that ability were too ridiculous to be believed. Elysia had always suspected that the so-called soul reaper gift was a fairy tale created by the untalented. Only the untalented would believe that a necromancer could take another’s soul.

Worse than death? Doug asked, pulling her attention back to him.

I said almost. She tried not to let her apprehension show as she continued. When and where?

The Family plot, at midnight.

She nodded. Okay.

Doug looked like he wanted to say more, but a glance at James silenced him. He gave Ian a nod, then walked to his car and climbed inside. A moment later, he drove out of the cemetery.

Elysia, James said.

The bond tightened between them and she pulled in a breath. It always did that when he said her name—which made no sense. She had soul bound him, not the other way around. They should only be aware of the bond when she said his name.

Don’t try to talk me out of this, she said. Both of you, please stop. I can do this. Telling me I can’t isn’t boosting my confidence.

Doug was willing, James said. I can track him to the lich.

You can’t take out Alexander until we know where Matilda is. Matilda was Ian’s daughter, and she had been held captive nearly as long as Ian. Finding her tomb and freeing her was the main reason Elysia had decided to do this. The goal isn’t just to kill Alexander, we need to free her.

Doug could learn her location. James’s dark brows descended over his glowing eyes. I’m sure he’ll do anything you ask.

Securing Doug’s cooperation isn’t the problem. The problem is that you’re not soul bound to him. He can’t summon you like I can. You would have no way of knowing when Doug had the information. And you must take Alexander the moment you jump through, or he will take you.

James frowned, but didn’t argue. Being dead left him susceptible to necromancer control, and if Alexander got control of him, she didn’t think she could take him back. Ian had once taken James to illustrate her ineptitude, and she had no doubt that Alexander could do the same.

Besides, Doug isn’t immune to Alexander’s magic. Once he gets control of him it would be over.

We don’t know that you’ll be immune, either.

Ian was—is. She gestured at the man in question. Why shouldn’t I be?

Then he can go.

She glanced at Ian, but he maintained his silence. So if Ian shows up in my place tonight, Doug’s father will take him to Alexander?

James turned away, raking a hand through his dark hair.

James—

I need to go. He turned to Ian. You’ll take her home?

Yes, Ian said.

James, wait. Guilt squirmed through her gut when the command stopped him in mid-stride, but she didn’t apologize. We’ve been over this. There’s no other way.

There’s always another way. He headed for his car, climbed in, and drove out of the cemetery.

Elysia sighed, aware of Ian watching her. I suppose that pleases you.

A relationship with the dead is not healthy, Ian said. But it does not please me to see you unhappy.

She knew how he felt about James, but she wasn’t sure what to make of the rest of his statement.

He regarded her a moment in silence. Your mind is no longer on this. We will return to the lab.

She wanted to argue to the contrary, even though she knew he was right. But he pulled open a portal before she could speak and stepped through. She followed him into the land of the dead. The portal winked closed behind them, and they stood on a dark, featureless plain beneath a black sky. Dim red light provided some illumination, but she had never been able to figure out where the light emanated from.

Lost in thought, it took Elysia a minute to realize that Ian should have opened a portal into the mortal world by now. She looked over and found him watching her.

What is it? she asked.

Can you find the mortal plane?

You’ll teach me to travel? Her heart beat faster in anticipation.

I will make you aware of how it is done, but you are to use it only in an emergency.

She opened her mouth to respond, but he raised a hand.

Do not argue with me. This place is called the land of the dead for a reason. You do not belong.

I’m aware of the danger. I’ve heard the hellhounds.

And for that reason, you must always carry an iron knife with you. He reached in his pocket and pulled out a worn folding knife. Iron is the only thing that can stop a hellhound.

Do you always have that on you?

I won’t hurt your grim. He returned the knife to his pocket. You must not lose your way in this place, he continued the lecture. You cannot feel it, but even now, it is wicking away your life force. Those without power, even weaker necromancers, cannot remain here long.

I know.

Close your eyes.

She gave him another frown, but did as told.

It should be easier for you to open a portal into the mortal realm rather than the other way around. Your soul knows where you belong, and your living body craves survival.

Okay. She kept her eyes closed and tried to sense the mortal world. She imagined the grass and trees, with a bright blue sky overhead. A world so very different from this one.

Keep in mind that the two realms are not distinct from each other. Death is a part of life.

Alternate realities. James said that you are actually standing in the same place, just in another dimension.

He is better at translating the concept into your modern terms, but bear in mind that he is a creature of both worlds and can cross between them as easily as breathing. I’ve seen him walk the veil where death meets life.

Elysia opened her eyes. Is that what he’s doing? I know he’s still in the mortal world, but he vanishes from sight, like a ghost.

In many ways, he is a ghost.

If this is the start of another lecture on—

Your eyes aren’t closed.

She huffed out a breath and closed her eyes once more. How do I actually open the portal once I sense the mortal world?

You send your soul into the veil, just as you would send your soul into a corpse.

Seriously?

That’s why only the most powerful necromancers can travel. We have the ability to send nearly all of our soul beyond the flesh that confines it. When a soul encounters the veil, it opens. You will learn to sense this and stop there, holding the veil open so your body can pass through.

She tried to envision that and failed. How can you send out your soul when death doesn’t call it?

Ian sighed.

She opened her eyes to witness his frown. What?

No offense to your esteemed grandmother, but you were taught by lesser necromancers and think as they do. You are not like them.

A howl rose in the distance, and Elysia turned toward the sound. It was eerie how much it sounded like James, though she knew instinctively that it wasn’t. Hellhound, she whispered.

Come. A portal opened into the lab, and Ian stepped through.

She hurried after him.

Welcome back, Addie said from her place at one of the counters. She didn’t look up from the flask she was swirling. Technically, this lab and the apartment upstairs were hers. Addie was the alchemist who had found the Final Formula and traded it with Ian for the use of his lab equipment. That had been months ago. The pair were business partners now. Did you have a good training session?

No, Ian answered before Elysia could. We have a lot of inaccurate information and ineffective techniques to overcome.

Elysia crossed her arms.

Addie’s gaze shifted to her, an amused glint in her dark eyes. What did Doug want?

I’m in. I go before Alexander tonight.

Addie set down the flask she’d been swirling. Tonight? Her attention shifted to Ian. Will our preparations be enough?

They will have to be, he answered.

Elysia began to ask what it was that the two of them were working on, but he spoke before she could.

Have you been at the bench the whole time we were gone? Ian was frowning at Addie now.

Don’t start. Addie turned to her flask. The doctor released me from all restrictions.

I doubt he anticipated that you’d work yourself into a relapse.

Hardly.

Elysia bit her lip as they argued. It was clear that the pair cared for each other. What had been a business arrangement had grown into friendship. Or more accurately, something like a father-daughter relationship.

Your color isn’t good, Ian continued. And you’re practically doubled-over.

Whatever. Addie stood straighter.

I’ll finish that. Ian joined her at the workbench. Go upstairs with Elysia. She’ll fix you something to eat.

Addie propped her hands on her hips. And now you’re ordering us both around?

I was going to make myself something, Elysia said. It’s no trouble.

Addie shifted her frown from Ian to her. You’re not helping.

If he’s nagging you, he’s not nagging me. And if we go upstairs, he won’t be nagging either of us.

Ian was studying Addie’s notes, but Elysia caught the small smile.

Well, the no nagging part sounds good, and I am a little hungry, Addie admitted.

Ian shrugged off his coat and began rolling up his sleeves. Go. I’ll take care of this.

Addie remained long enough to give him some instructions, then followed Elysia up the stairs.

Sit. Elysia waved a hand at the kitchen table. I’ll bring some sandwich fixings over.

I’m not an invalid, Addie said.

You’re not completely well, either—despite what the doctor says. Elysia walked to the refrigerator to gather the lunchmeat, cheese, and a few other items. It had been a long day; a simple meal sounded best. Chair legs scraped across the floor behind her, and she made an effort not to smile.

This is so frustrating, Addie complained.

You’re getting stronger every day. Elysia set the items on the table and returned to the refrigerator for more. Few people recover from an attempted soul ripping. Addie had nearly been killed by a rogue grim. No, she had been killed. It was only through the efforts of her friends—both Old Magic and New—that she had been brought back.

Yeah, yeah.

Elysia rested a hand atop the refrigerator door and leaned down, eyeing the shelves. Where had the brown mustard gone? It wasn’t in the door, but she knew they had some.

Don’t trouble yourself with the mustard, Addie said. I prefer mayo on cold cuts.

Elysia straightened and frowned over the top of the door at her.

Addie finished opening the honeyed ham and looked up. Understanding dawned on her face an instant later. I did it again.

Or I did. Elysia closed the refrigerator.

Addie frowned. Neither of them knew how it worked, but ever since Elysia had used her necromancy to help save Addie’s life, Addie would occasionally pick up on her thoughts. Ian had suggested that Elysia was projecting them, and since Elysia had come so close to binding Addie’s soul, the two of them shared a connection. Ian could project his thoughts into someone’s mind without speaking, so it wasn’t a surprising ability for Elysia to have, but she feared it was something more. Alexander was a ghoul master with an ability to bind the living—and she was his descendant, too.

Elysia gathered the plates, bread, and utensils, and carried them to the table.

As long as you don’t share any of your fantasies about James with me, we’re good. Addie gave her a wink.

That shouldn’t be a problem. I pissed him off earlier.

Addie lifted a brow, but didn’t ask.

He doesn’t want me to go before Alexander, and when he brought it up in front of Doug, I more or less commanded him to shut up.

Ouch.

I shouldn’t have done that. She shook her head. But I’m just so tired of everyone doubting me. I can do this.

We’re just worried about you. Addie pulled out a couple of slices of bread and began building a sandwich.

Which is why you’re wearing yourself out in the lab.

If it wasn’t you, I’d find another reason. I’d go crazy if I had to be cooped up in this apartment much longer.

It has provided ample snuggle time with Rowan. Elysia winked, then grabbed a couple slices of bread.

He’s as bad as Ian. The doctor’s word is law as long as he’s prescribing rest. The moment the guy clears me, his advice doesn’t mean squat. She rolled her eyes.

Elysia smiled. Have you considered using lingerie to get your way?

Addie snorted, though a little color showed in her cheeks. It was an improvement. Ian was right; she was too pale.

I don’t own any, Addie admitted.

Oh, we’ve got to remedy that.

The blush darkened. You’re not taking me underwear shopping.

I could tell Era. I bet she’d have you a drawer of the stuff before the day is out.

Don’t you dare. She looked so horrified that Elysia couldn’t help but laugh. Addie was a curious mix of brazen confidence and shy insecurity. She would go toe-to-toe with anyone, unintimidated by social status or magical power, but if the conversation turned personal, especially anything to do with Rowan, she blushed. It made her all kinds of fun to tease.

Addie? Ian’s voice echoed up the stairs. Liquid or powder?

Liquid, she called, then turned to Elysia. I’d better get down there.

Addie.

I’ll take the sandwich. Don’t worry. He won’t let me do much.

If I stop teasing you?

Addie frowned. That’s not why I’m leaving. I forgot to explain the next step to him. She picked up her sandwich and headed for the stairs.

Uh-huh. Sure, Elysia said to the empty room.

She eyed the sandwich she had been building, then began to return the components to their original packages. Tonight, she would face Alexander. She didn’t want to puke on his feet.

Elysia stood before the mirror on the back of her closet door and eyed her reflection. The brown necromancer’s robe fit her well, but then, she hadn’t changed much since it had been given to her on her eighteenth birthday. She didn’t think she had worn it since.

That’s a bit disturbing, James said from the doorway.

She turned to face him, surprised that he had snuck up on her. She usually sensed his death—or the portal opening. He still wore the same clothes from earlier, so he must have driven over.

What do you mean disturbing? she asked.

He waved a hand at her robe. You look like a necromancer.

"I am a necromancer."

He frowned. You know what I mean. The only time I’ve seen those brown robes, the situation wasn’t a good one. Much like tonight.

She turned away from him, walking to the dresser to retrieve her hairbrush. As soon as I have Mattie’s location, I will summon you.

Good, he said from directly behind her. He didn’t startle her this time. She had been paying attention. She gathered her hair and secured it in a low ponytail, then tied a bronze ribbon around it.

But I’ll wait until I’m in his presence to call you, so be ready. Ready to rip out Alexander’s soul.

I’ll be ready.

She sighed, returning the hairbrush to the dresser.

What? he asked.

I don’t like using you as…an assassin.

We all agreed that Alexander must be destroyed, and I am best suited for the task.

Elysia knew he was right. Alexander had been controlling Doug’s father, Xander, from the moment Xander had become Deacon, decades ago. Actually, Alexander had controlled every necromancer who had held that position since his own death nearly 150 years ago. It was time for someone else to lead the Old Magic community. Someone who wasn’t insane.

I’m sorry about earlier, James said, interrupting her thoughts.

Me, too. She faced him. I shouldn’t have commanded you.

I deserved it. He shrugged. I was being pig-headed.

She smiled. Maybe a little.

I just want to throttle the guy.

Doug might be the typical arrogant necromancer, but he’s not a bad man.

He let Neil stunt you.

He didn’t know what Neil intended.

I was present when he discussed taking me from you.

So he could use you against Alexander and free his father.

James crossed his arms. Free his father or protect himself?

He doesn’t deserve to spend the rest of his life possessed by an undead sociopath.

James frowned. "I’m sure he would have released me once the task was complete."

Maybe. Maybe not. We’ll never know. She reached up and rubbed away the wrinkles between his brows. Because you’re mine.

His gaze locked with hers, the predator rising to the surface. It’s not only me he wants to possess.

She slid her hands beneath his open jacket and gripped his shoulders. There’s my green-eyed monster.

Ha ha. His hands settled on her hips. He held her gaze with those green eyes, then bent down and took her mouth with his. The kiss was intense, claiming. She felt the nip of his claws through her clothes and shivered.

You’re mine. He snarled the words against her mouth. If he touches you, I will Hunt him—through the mortal world and the next.

James—

Another savage kiss followed, cutting off her response. She dug her nails into his shoulders and he growled, the sound raising goosebumps along her arms. When he finally let her up for air, her head was spinning. He held her gaze with his glowing eyes, and she suddenly realized how much of her soul she had poured into him.

She pulled back her magic, trying to establish some semblance of control. What he wants means nothing. You should be more concerned about what I want.

He didn’t release her. What you want.

Suddenly, his eyes flicked toward the hall, and he stepped away from her. Footsteps moved their way, and a moment later, Rowan appeared in the doorway. His presence didn’t surprise her, but his attire did. He was wearing his gray robes.

Are you ready? Rowan asked her.

What’s going on? She looked up at James.

Rowan will take you to the cemetery.

You mean the Flame Lord is going to take me. She waved a hand at those gray robes. Are you sure that’s a good idea?

She directed the question at James, though she had come to know Rowan fairly well over the last few weeks. He was James’s boss and Addie’s boyfriend, but he was still the leader of the magical community—well, New Magic, anyway—and frankly, she found him a bit intimidating.

Xander will understand that I expect you to return as you depart. Rowan’s cool gray eyes met hers.

She turned to James. You put him up to this.

I suggested it, James said. Rowan agreed.

I’ll wait for you downstairs, Rowan said. To arrive by midnight, we need to leave soon. He walked away.

I really don’t think this is a good idea, she said now that they were alone.

James shrugged. It’s Rowan’s choice. He’s not very happy with Xander right now. James glanced toward the doorway and continued in a softer tone. I think he’s looking for a reason. If he knew for certain that Xander’s actions were his own and not Alexander’s, he would have taken care of him already.

Elysia lifted her brows. I know Rowan will do what he must, but he doesn’t strike me as the sort to just execute someone.

He’s not—unless they hurt Addie. A coolness entered his tone, and she knew he felt the same. James and Addie were extremely close. At first, that had concerned her, but gradually, she came to realize that there was something about Addie that attracted loyal friends. Maybe it was her biting wit and infectious determination. Whatever it was, Elysia frequently found herself willing to stand up for her.

I guess I better get downstairs. She turned toward the door.

James slipped an arm around her waist, stopping her. "If anyone hurts you, my rage will put Rowan’s to shame."

She looked up, holding his gaze. You feel that strongly? she whispered.

Yes, and it’s not because our magic is compatible.

Her heart thumped a quick beat in her ears. Yeah?

What about you? You threatened to Make a woman in my defense today. Was that an idle boast to scare her off?

Elysia didn’t even have to think about it. No. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep you free—and that has nothing to do with our magic being compatible.

He trailed the back of one finger down her cheek, the smooth surface of his claw cool against her skin. She shivered and the glow intensified in his eyes.

I’m starting to wonder if it was ever the magic, he said. I’ve had other necromancers feed me their soul; none of them ever made me feel as you do.

I’ve sent my soul into the dead my entire life, and I’ve never felt anything remotely like this.

What does it mean?

She sucked up her courage and plunged on. I think we’re moving beyond our compatibility issues. She bit her lip, waiting for his response.

The corner of his mouth curled upward. About damn time.

She laughed, the relief leaving her a bit lightheaded. Though this isn’t the best of times to come to this realization. Rowan’s waiting for me.

James bent down and gave her a quick kiss. Anyone but Rowan, and I’d say let him wait. He took her hand and led her toward the door.

Chapter 3

Elysia and James arrived in the lab to find Addie, Ian, and Rowan deep in conversation—at least, until they stepped into the room.

Should I be concerned that they stopped talking when I walked in the room? she asked James.

Maybe we were talking about James, Addie said.

James made a face, but didn’t comment.

Addie stopped in front of them and offered Elysia a vial. This is my necromancy solvent. It’s handy for freeing people from ghoul masters. It would probably de-animate zombies, too.

How do you get them to drink it? Elysia smiled.

It works on absorption. Addie held out a pair of stir straws with a paraffin plug on each end. Knockout Powder. Just remember, it’ll knock you out, too. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work on the dead.

"But I work on the dead."

Providing Neil doesn’t stunt you again. Addie held out a second vial. The mint-green solution looked familiar. This is the antidote to that.

Elysia released a breath. She didn’t even want to contemplate being stunted again. Thank you.

Tuck the vials in your bra and the straws in your socks.

Elysia grinned. You’re the pro. She turned away from the others and did as Addie instructed. Finished, she faced the room once more, her gaze settling on Ian. Any inside information on how to deal with your brother?

Ian sighed. Lex is insane. Even as a child, he was never quite right. But his biggest faults were always his pride and his vanity. You can play to that, but be careful. He’s crazy, but he isn’t stupid.

Got it.

And watch your back around his sons. One good thing about your curse, it should deter Lex from using you the way he used Mattie.

She frowned. Are you suggesting Doug…

If Lex takes him.

James growled and she reached over to grip his arm. That was an angle she hadn’t considered.

There’s also Neil, Ian said.

Left to his own devices, I don’t think you have to worry about him, Addie said. Neil’s not interested in immortality through his offspring. He wants that for himself. They’re calling for rain tomorrow. He’ll be able to brew the Final Formula.

The only ingredient he, or Addie, lacked was spring rain. Today was the first day of spring.

We need to go, Rowan said.

Elysia nodded.

Addie gave her a fierce hug. Be careful.

Elysia agreed, then looked up, meeting Ian’s uncertain expression.

It is wrong to sacrifice one daughter to free the other, he said.

She lifted her chin. I’m not a sacrifice; I’m your brother’s worst nightmare.

Ian’s cheeks dimpled. You’ve definitely been spending too much time with Addie.

Addie arched a dark brow, a wry twist to her lips, but she said nothing.

Elysia turned to James.

Get the information you need quickly, he told her. I won’t wait too long.

Do I need to give you a command? I won’t have you put yourself in danger because you can’t be patient.

Fine. He bent down and kissed her.

She savored his taste, his smell, trying to imprint them on her memory. She would accomplish her goal: end the horror that plagued her family and free Ian’s daughter. Then she was going to defy every warning she’d ever been given and take a dead man as her lover.

James released her. His eyes met hers and the corner of his mouth ticked upward. Had he picked up on her thoughts? Before anything could be said, he lifted his eyes to Rowan.

Make sure Xander knows the consequences. He held Rowan with his predator’s gaze.

He will. Rowan didn’t look away.

A little faith, please. Elysia gestured toward the door. Shall we?

Rowan nodded and led her from the room.

Elysia shifted on the white leather seat, trying to get comfortable. But the seat wasn’t the problem, and no amount of squirming would ease her anxiety. She wished they would get there already. Waiting was always the hardest part.

Are you all right? Rowan asked. He sat across from her, his posture relaxed. Well, maybe not relaxed, but he wasn’t fidgeting around like she was.

This is the single craziest thing I’ve ever done.

Keep hanging out with us and that’s bound to change.

She smiled. That’s not reassuring.

It wasn’t meant to be. He tapped a finger on his armrest. I have enough troubles in my city. I wish we didn’t need to dig up new ones.

Nice pun, but I don’t think Alexander is a new problem. He’s been a problem for decades.

Centuries.

True. She watched the dark landscape slide past her window. I wish I had more time to prepare for this.

I wish we all had. I’m not comfortable sending James into a nest of necromancers. It’s a shame you can’t summon me instead.

That might be within my skill set—I just don’t know how to use it.

The ghoul master ability.

She met his gaze once more. Yes. She made herself continue. Addie picked up on my thoughts again today.

He frowned. Are you certain? There might have been a contextual clue. She’s very observant.

I can’t be certain, but the way she looked at me…

It was his turn to watch the night outside the windows.

I didn’t mean for this to happen, she said.

I know. His attention returned to her. You saved her life; I’ll deal with any side effects, but you will allow that it’s…

Freaky?

I was leaning toward disconcerting. First James, now Addie—yes, disconcerting is the word I want.

It took an effort not to squirm. I didn’t ask for this crazy-ass ability.

I didn’t ask for mine, either, but the universe doesn’t do take backs.

She smiled in spite of her unease. No, it doesn’t.

The limo slowed and she realized they had arrived at their destination. She gripped her robe where it lay over her knees, then forced herself to relax. Dear God, she was really going to go through with it.

Can I ask a favor? She pulled her gaze from the shadowed cemetery outside her window to address Rowan.

What do you need?

If this doesn’t work out, will you keep my grandmother and cousin safe? She gripped her hands. Xander would definitely retaliate if she failed.

I will. He made no effort to reassure her that her fears were ungrounded, and that left her uneasy. After all, he knew Xander well.

Thank you, she whispered.

The limo rounded a bend, and beneath a streetlight on the corner, she saw cars parked beside a familiar group of graves: the Nelson Family plot. She had been here twice, though in daytime. Cemeteries didn’t frighten her, but she felt decidedly uneasy tonight.

They came to a stop beside a black, windowless van. The placard on the side read Nelson Funeral Homes. No doubt, Xander was already here.

Rowan pulled up his hood, and she hurried to do the same. He scooted forward, and to her surprise, reached out and gripped her knee.

If things go wrong, call James and get out of there. Once James knows the location, I can take care of the problem.

She swallowed. Okay.

If we didn’t need to find Matilda, I would tell you to do just that.

She wished she could take him up on it.

The chauffeur opened the door, and Rowan climbed out, leaving her to follow.

There were far more people present than Elysia had expected. Perhaps two dozen, all in brown robes with their hoods concealing their faces. One figure walked toward them. Judging by his height and wide shoulders, Elysia suspected it was Xander.

He stopped a few feet away and crossed his arms. You seem to involve yourself in Old Magic’s affairs more and more, Your Grace.

It does seem that way, doesn’t it? Rowan agreed. Though I do have a strong interest in who follows you as Deacon.

You will be informed.

Then I shall expect it. Rowan ignored his curt tone. When should I retrieve Elysia?

What?

I gave her a ride. I’ll pick her up when your selection process is complete.

You needn’t trouble yourself.

It’s no trouble. Rowan sounded almost cheerful. Elysia realized he was enjoying this. Do I return here? When?

I don’t know. Exasperation colored Xander’s tone. There haven’t been multiple candidates since my grandfather’s day. I have no idea how long this might take.

Then call me. Rowan turned to her. Take care.

Thank you, Your Grace.

A nod, and Rowan returned to his limo. Elysia watched him pull away and her stomach knotted. She was surrounded by over two dozen people, but very much alone.

So you think you can influence me by arriving with him, Xander said.

No, he offered me a ride and I took it. Seemed like a bad idea to leave my car here. It would probably get towed.

Father? A second brown-robed man joined them. Doug.

I don’t know how you talked me into this, Xander said to him. He turned and walked toward the others. Let us begin.

Doug stopped beside her. Why did you let Rowan bring you?

He insisted. You don’t tell the Flame Lord no. That wasn’t exactly true. From what she had seen,