Euphamia, a We Are the Devil's Daughters Story

By Mara Reitsma

It was said, that the enemy used fear to trap its victims. It was said, that they hid in the shadows, lurking in your deepest dreams; waiting, for your will to fail. Well, first of all, Euphamia had nothing to lose. She had fought hard, loved deep, and lost... everything. They had taken her mate, they had tried to take her sisters; and now, they were trying to take the whole Verse. But how could the enemy take hold of one, who had already lived through her greatest fear? She was the youngest of three, sired by the Lord of Darkness himself. They said she harbored the darkest of her Father's streaks, that she would one day, rule in his stead; but she preferred to hunt. She was, the Hunt Master, after all; and she loved her job. So who better, to bring the battle to the enemy's doorstep, than the Duchess of the Dark, herself? Who better, than one who feared nothing at all? Or did she? Was there something, she wasn't telling them? Or him?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu.com
• Release date: Dec 22, 2016
• ISBN: 9781365628597

Book preview

Euphamia, a We Are the Devil's Daughters Story

A We Are The Devil's Daughters Story

Euphamia

Mara Reitsma

© Mara Reitsma. 2016. All Rights Reserved.

ISBN: 978-1-365-62859-7

THANK YOU THANK YOU

You have no idea how excited I am to share this story with you!

To the Ladies, YOU GUYS ROCK, even though I may have driven you crazy!

Also Available from Mara Reitsma

A We Are The Devil's Daughters Story...

Zahara (Book One)

Madrina (Book Two)

A Devil's Daughters Crossover Series

By Mara Reitsma & Mark McQuillen...

Legends (Book One)

Coming Soon

Chronicles (Book Two)

Prologue

A black gown that hung down to the floor, amethysts that floated along the neckline, and a belt made especially for her, sewn together with leather straps and studded with even more of the purple colored gems. A mating gift, from her beloved, handcrafted in the midnight hours while she slept.

He had given it to her that morning, sneaking away into the chambers she kept in her Mother's Sanctuary, 'I just had to see you. There was no stopping my feet.' He had told her.

But as she stood before him now, before them all, she couldn't help but wonder how many other one hundred and thirteen year olds were out there, who had actually found...the one.

They had said their vows, proclaimed their love in front of all who had come to witness the mating of Lord Eroch and Lady Ellaria's, youngest daughter.

    'I give you all, T'ryx, son of  Tor'yn, and his beloved Euphamia! May the love they share, and the bond they cast, hold true to the words they have spoken!'

   The crowd let out their shouts of joy, clapping their hands as he took her hand and led her down the stone steps. She couldn't help but look up into his eyes, his long, black hair tied back in a braid, his strong jaw and that devilish grin...

   In a heart beat, they had said their goodbyes and made way for the adventure of a new life; together. They would return, eventually, but their moment had just begun, when her foot set down upon the grass, and she took in the sights before her. Nothing too fancy, a long dark path that led through gnarled trees and hidden dangers, all the way to the spooky looking manor house by the cliffs. Gardens and pathways, stone statues and fountains, all of them broken and crumbling; taken over with the vines that strangled them.

   It was dull and dingy, mist floating about their feet as he pulled her along with the wildest of grins upon his face. 'Just wait!' He chuckled, leaving her at the foot of what looked like the flimsiest set of stairs she had ever seen; would they even support his weight? But he took off towards them none the less, as fearless as he was, and her heart stopped, waiting for the crack as he....

   Was gone!

    From a full stop, to a racing train, her heart was about to beat right out of her chest as she stared at the place, her love had just stood.

   'T'ryx?' She called out. 'T'ryx, this isn't funny!'

    Her world felt as if it were closing in on her. Just mated, and her biggest fear had already come true. Where was he? Where had he gone?

    'T'RYX?' She shouted, stepping forward with her hand out...

    She felt the soft tingle as she drew closer, her finger tips going numb as she held her hand still against the odd energy surge; and then she was pulled inside.

    'What the fuck?' She gasped, palming the daggers she kept hidden in her sleeves.

    'You brought blades, to our mating ceremony?' He stood before her, and all that was around them, was...

    'Yeah, I did!' She blurted out, 'Where there fuck, are we?' She added, dazed and confused with the bright, sun shiny patio, she now found herself on.

    Everything had changed. No longer were the trees looking gnarled and broken, the stone pathways and statues, as clean and perfect as they day they were set. Water fell from the mouth of the fountain, the gardens full of mesmerizing colors...

   'T'ryx?' She let out, still gazing around.

   'Yeah, Babe?' He chuckled, wrapping his arms around her waist.

   'You better start talking!' She sighed, and pulled her eyes away from the patio itself, and turned towards the manor house.

    Red brick and mortar. Two stories, perhaps three, with tons of little windows, all trimmed in white. This was not the house she had seen when they'd started up the path.

   'This, is your manor!' He grinned so wide, and her eyes locked on his.

   'My what?' And for the first time in forever, she looked at him with, not confusion, but wonder.

   Her amethyst colored eyes, shone like the stones on the belt he had given her, her hair shimmering in locks of black and white as the sun beat down on them. She was a beauty, and she was all his. So, he built her a house?

   'Okay, it's our, manor!' He laughed, and kissed her forehead.

   'You've lost me!' She choked out.

   'Perfect! Cause this is a place, exactly for that, to get lost!'

   Okay, was he nuts? A little too much party wine?

   'Look...' He started, tilting her head up so he could kiss her. 'There are times, when I just can't stand... your sisters.' He sighed, and waited for her to protest.

    'And?' She replied instead, kissing him again.

    'And I come here!' He chuckled, feeling her lips upon his, tasting the sweet hint of wine on her lips. 'This is my, dungeon, if you will!' Her Demon smiled down at her, his eyes hiding behind loose strands of his hair, but she could still see their shine. 'And I was hoping, it would be, our dungeon!'

    Euphamia paused for a moment, staring into his eyes as the markings on his neck and chest, burned like the embers in the flames. 'You want to live here?'

   'More like, play, here!' He grinned, 'And as you can see, or couldn't see...'

   He had found this place and made it his own, and now that they were mated, he wanted her to share in it with him. A secret spot. A place, hidden from prying eyes. She was, speechless.

   'We could hide away here. No one knows of its location...'

   'No one?' She cocked a brow at him.

   'Not even Nyx!' He laughed, then buried his face in her neck. 'Not even your parents...'

   Oh, now that sounded nice. The idea that they could escape the pressures of not only family, but their jobs as well. Sure, they had crash pads all over the Verse, but a place that was off the radar? Completely, and utterly, theirs?

   'You no like?' His grin turned to a frown, and he nipped at her neck some more. 'Come on, Mia! Say something!' He whined, those big devilish eyes, turning to those of a sad looking pups.

    She couldn't say anything. She didn't want to spoil the moment. This place was amazing, and it was all theirs; all that was left, was for her to explore it. 'You're it!' She winked at him, and disappeared from sight, leaving her clothes and boots, in a pile at his feet...

Chapter One

Mia? She heard a voice call out to her, What are you doing out here? It grew louder, and the sound of the door shutting, meant she was no longer alone.

Gone was her moment of silence that she held so dear; for the here and now, waited for no one. Standing on the massive stone balcony that over looked the fire pits below, she had wished for nothing more, than a quick dip in a bath and a good stiff drink n a tavern far away.

I needed some air! She replied, taking another swig from her drink, that was far from stiff enough.

You needed to get some air? Out here? He laughed, You're underground, Mia!

What do you want, Markus? She sighed, and guzzled back what was left in her cup.

For you to come in and join the party! He gave her a look with one eyebrow cocked. Come on! Zahara is getting all worried that you're not having fun.

Of course she is! Little worry-wort! She laughed, trying to hide the annoyance that was building within her. You can tell her, I'm fine! She added, And I'll be coming in shortly!

Finished your drink? He inquired, with another cocked brow. Or did I twist your rubber arm?

Euphamia closed her eyes and sighed again. Se really, didn't want to go back inside. Her patience was dwindling, though she was trying so hard to be 'happy'. They don't make bottomless cups like they used to! She laughed again.

Well, I hear there is plenty of Scotch left, inside. Markus grinned. The good stuff, too!

You mean Nyx hasn't finished it all? Shit, maybe she would go inside, and see if the Demon had drank himself stupid yet. Always a blast when the Demon gets sloshed at a party.

He's, um... Wait for it! She was bracing herself. ...well you see... Markus was taking his sweet ass time explaining what exactly it was, that Nyx was up to. ...said he had an itch! You know!

Yes, she did know, but it was so much fun watching her almost, new brother, squirming about as he tried to explain; it was so very entertaining.

So, he took off?

Yup! Markus replied, scratching his head. Said something about the itch, and then he was gone!

Figures! She laughed, and made her way towards the doors.

Inside, was like a whole other ball game. The main dining room had been turned into a three ring circus. No joke! Zahara had made some jest about wanting lions, tigers, and bears; and well, guess what? Markus went and got them for her. Anything for his female's party!

Yo, Nissa! You're gonna clean that up after, right? She gagged, watching the furry little wabbits shit, all over the place. What did you expect though, they were here with a bunch of freaking meat eaters.

I don't clean, at my own parties. He grinned back, Oh, come on. He added, when Madrina informed him, that he so would be cleaning it up. It was his idea to bring the bunnies after all, though Euphamia had no idea what the hell, or why.

She stuck her tongue out at him from across the room, and then focused on the drink she was making. Wasn't much focusing to it really, just a really tall glass with a shit load of Scotch. If it was a toss up over being shit-faced drunk, and reliving one of the best moments in her...

   Bring on the hangover, please! She wasn't interested in a trip down memory lane.

But this was for Zahara and Madrina. Both of them, FINALLY getting mated, and she was happy for them; she just didn't expect the shit storm of flashbacks that accompanied, and complicated the moments. Yeah, she had been mated once, but she had lost that mate; and those memories were sacred. Like, we only bring them out once a year, kind of sacred.

You look so moody, Euphamia!

Yes, and she really needed a pep-talk from her Mother right about now. Queue the lecture in three... two...

Hello, Mother!

You should be happy for them! The female who had birthed her sighed. With long white hair and blood red tips, she and Madrina looked so much alike...

Oh, I am. She laughed, before taking a long, stiff haul off her drink. ...but I can't help feeling like I ...

You shouldn't! Her Mother smiled back at her.

She shouldn't? The female didn't even know what she was going to say!

Well, I do! Mia replied, and turned to scan the room for anyone else, she could talk to. She knew, where this particular conversation was heading.

You know? It has been so many years, Euphamia...

Whoa! Slow down please! Mia had to stop her, there was no point in wasting her breath. I did the whole mating thing once already. So excuse me, if I'm not so into doing it again.

Do you not want to be happy, like your sisters? She asked, Look at them...

I see them! And I wish them both, many happy centuries together! But I did my bit. I'm good!

And what does Nyx think of this?

What does he even have to do with this? Mia shot back, He was my mate's brother. Not, my mate!

He took a vow, Euphamia. Her Mother reminded her, as if she needed any reminding.

Yeah, he did! To protect me, and give me everything Tyr'x would.... But she couldn't continue. There is nothing else to it!

But that look on her Mother's face, she wasn't gonna let this go. The male, loves you!

Yes he does! And I love him! We care about each other! It's how we roll! But that doesn't mean for one second, that I would ever mate again. Not even with Nyx! And with that, she finished her drink and decided it was time to take off.

She had come to the party, she had said her bit, fought with her Mother and... now she was gonna hightail it out of here; and then she was gone.

   She reappeared in her room, though it wasn't much of a room. Dark red walls that she wished were purple, walls that were ten sizes, too big, for her needs. She could house a whole orphanage in here, and yet, the thought of bringing children into this place, and she shuddered.

A big bed lay in one corner, a dresser in another... Not too shabby for her liking. Nothing at all like what she had had in The Null, but then, that had been her room since she was so little. This place, was just a spot to rest herself.

Off came the gown of violet that faded to black, careful not to snag the intricate web of lace that hung down the back like a cape. Madrina had made it for her, and it was one of the only gowns she owned, and that made it all the more special. Except tonight, she wasn't worried about her sisters, they were both in good hands. They had found their mates, and she was, truly happy for them.

Fuck, she was happy with herself. She had managed to survive the last attack, rescue not only Nissa, but bring back Madrina as well. And what do you know, there had still been time left to hit up a few of those dark and devious taverns, she loved so much. You know, the ones where no one really knew who you were, or they did and said sweet fuck all about it? Those were her favorite, and she had had, a blast; until she heard the news that both of them...

    Dammit! This whole mating thing, shouldn't have been bugging her as much as it was. Where was a tavern when you needed one? Those were the places she could relax in, sit back and let loose, and fuck did she need it tonight.

Trading in her pretty dress, for a pair of black leathers and a long sleeved pullover with a hood, she laced up the combat boots in place of the dainty slippers, and slid on her leather jacket; zipped up to her chin. Nothing but black, except for the white streaks in her hair and the purple of her eyes. Perfect! Just the way she liked it, as she examined herself in the mirror.

This, she could move in! This, she giggled to herself, this she could hide things in, and she slid one of three blades into the hidden sleeves of the jacket. Euphamia without her blades, was like breathing without air, it just didn't happen.

When she was satisfied with the way her 'babies' had been concealed, she lifted the hood over her hair and went to turn towards the door, when it opened before her and she stood frozen as her Sire, loomed before her.

Going, somewhere? The male's voice echoed, and the large figure with long black and white hair stepped forward.

Father! She nodded her head, I need some fresh air, and a stronger drink!

I take it then, that your Mother spoke with you?

She did! And my views have not changed on the matter! She glared at him, In fact, I would appreciate it, if you would all just fuck off about it!

She just wants you to be happy, Euphamia! The male lumbered across the room and sat on her bed.

I am happy! She rolled her eyes, You guys just don't see it, cause it doesn't look, like your happy does!

See, I'm not the one who needs convincing! Mated or not...I couldn't care less... Her Father chuckled, but she knew he was lying.

But? Mia waited for it.

But, what?

There is always a but! She pointed out, and she was right.

But... We would feel better knowing that you were taken care of. He winced, like he knew she was gonna lose it; just like Markus had, earlier.

But again, she just stood there and shook her head. Can I go now?

Where are you going?

I don't know. Wherever I end up! She sighed, when all she wanted was to yell at him, scream in his face, that this was her life...

Be careful then!

Or what? You'll send Nyx after me? She laughed, knowing that was exactly what he would do.

Or worse! The Vampire! He chuckled, and rose from where he had just landed.

Right! Because Markus would go anywhere near that shit! The male knew better. Sometimes.

I'll be back in the morning. I just need to clear my head. She told him, grabbing an extra pair of blades that she slipped into her boots.

Don't let me stop you, but we will have to go over a few things in the morning! Too much has happened in the last few months, to wait any longer.

Roger that! She laughed, In the morning!

Try not to let Nyx, maul anybody this time. Her Father added as he brushed past her on the way to the door, planting a kiss on her forehead.

They'll have to keep their hands, to themselves then! She grinned, No promises!

No sooner had the door closed, but Mia closed her eyes and thought of the one place with the best Scotch in the verse, and she was gone.

                                        ***

Now this, was more like it!

Dark and sinister looking! Black walls. Black tables. Black bar and dance floor. Fuck, even the toilets were a sparkled black marble. Perfect for her mood!

It was crowded, but she wasn't interested in the show case of sexual excitement they had going on on center stage. When you've seen one broad dry hump the guitarists leg, you've seen them all. No, she was more interested in what went on behind closed doors, specifically the doors that were hidden behind a curtain at the end of the hallway.

Sure, Mia had been to some pretty wild places before, but this was on the top of her list. Her number one hideout away from home. And what do you know, who does she find the minute she walked through those doors, playing Hida'chi with the best of them? Nyx, who else?

But then, she knew she would find him here.

How much have you lost so far? She asked as she came up behind him and took a sneak peek at his cards.

Fuckers up, twenty G's!

Not bad, my friend. Not bad! She laughed, and patted him on the back.

Yup! Her home away from home! Right down to the jacked-up badass attitude, that doubled as her 'bodyguard'; or so he liked to call himself. He was really so much more than that, but to these people... He was just another Demon you didn't want to fuck with.

And I'm gonna take your bitch ass, for another twenty! Nyx grinned like a mad man.

The male was built like a brick house. Six foot six and weighing in at damn near three hundred pounds, but he carried that weight so gracefully. The way he moved, the way he cradled a blade and let it slice and dice for him...

Fuck it was hot! But then, anyone playing with daggers was right up there in her good books.

You here for the night, Boss? He asked, dealing another hand.

Right down to the nightcap! She grinned, Figured if you could run away...

Nyx howled in laughter, the drink in him and the heat around him leaving a thin film of sweat, his body all but glistening in the fire light. Wanna bring me another drink?

Like you need another drink? She rolled her eyes and made her way to the bar.

She ordered the asshole his drink, and one for herself, and returned to the table, with every set of eyes following her ass as she walked. She wasn't going to lie, she got a kick out of knowing they could look, but fuck, if any of them ever tried to touch; even a finger...

Here is your drink, my Lord! She teased, setting the glass down in font of him. You can pay me later! She added, and slapped him on the cheek.

You're an animal, Mia! One of the males at the table called out.

Careful now, you'll likely to lose a finger, to that one. Nyx grinned at her, Better stay back...

Oh Please! That pussy cat! She laughed, and took her drink to one of the unoccupied booths.

This place had it all, as she sank down into the cushioned booth. Sipping at her drink, she took in the sound of the music, deep and dark, the rhythm getting in to her bones. Her urge to dance, was only hindered by the entertainment before her.

Good tunes, good drinks, and a hell of a good show...if you knew where to look. Like right here, in the back room, along the far wall as she was, watching the booth across from hers.

She was blonde, her body tight and ready for what was to come. He, was a Kalvashian, probably her date for the night. His blue skin shimmered under the light from their table. The way it melded with hers as he slid between her legs,  and the moans that escaped her lips...

Damn! Who needed the porn channels, when you had this right in front of you. And fuck, was it hot! He was now sitting in the booth with her legs on either side of him. Her hips rocked back and forth as he buried his face in her chest. It didn't last very long though, the pleasure ending too quickly, but leaving the both of them breathless.

   Enjoying the show? Came a voice, and she looked up to see a male she had never seen before.

It's a pity it ended, before it really had a chance to begin! Mia replied, taking a drink from her glass.

I am sure, there will be another. He grinned, taking a seat next to her. My name, is Dom!

That's nice! She let out.

And you are? He asked, I've never seen you here before.

It's been awhile! She sighed, and took a sip of her drink.

Oh, now see? He chuckled, Always changing! He added, nodding to another booth, where a redhead had her legs wrapped around some male's face. Classy! He giggled.

Fuck! Bullet. Head. Squish. I'm sorry. Dom, is it?

Sure is, Baby! He grinned, edging in closer.

With one side of the booth facing the wall, and the other being blocked by a total noob...

Well, well, well! What, do we have here? Nyx smiled wildly as he slid himself over the back of the booth, and pulled Mia out of trouble. Did you miss me, Baby? He asked in a smooth,, erotic as fuck voice, leaning in to land a big fat kiss on her lips. You owe me one! He whispered as he pulled away.

You were all caught up in your game over there. I was getting lonely. She sighed, and sat back in the booth.

You should keep your eyes on her, Buddy. Someone may steal that hot piece of ass, away from you.

Oh, I don't think I have to worry about that! Nyx grinned.

You sure about that? The male named Dom laughed, and finished his drink.

Dude had balls, she'd give him that.

You wanna test that theory, Homeslice?

And at that, it was time for her to leave. No sense sticking around once those markings of his started to glow.     Maybe, I do! Dom snapped back.

Oh brother! There was no telling where this was gonna go, and since her drink was almost done...

Hey, Babe! She tried to call to Nyx, without busting out into a fit of laughter.

Yo! He called back.

I'm going to bed!

And miss all the excitement? The Demon was grinning from ear to ear.

Have at 'er! She laughed and offered him a salute, and she was off on her way towards the back stairs.

Best part about this place was the crash pad she and Nyx shared when they were totally bagged on a run. A sort of safe house, and she was heading, for a nice long nap.

Chapter Two

You know that shit will make you fat? Nyx blurted out, as they sat at her Father's war room table; he with his drink, and she with the biggest sundae, one could imagine.

    Good! Maybe the losers will leave me alone then. She laughed, and took another bite.

    What losers? Her Father asked as he entered the room.

    Oh, you know? Like the one that Nyx, beat the crap out of last night. She laughed again.

    I didn't beat him bad! Nyx cut in in his defense. Come on. He deserved it!

     Right! She rolled her eyes.

    He was trying to kiss her, my Lord. Nyx tried to explain.

    So, he kissed me instead! She grinned, moving the bowl before he could dip his spoon in.

    He what? Her Father let out, glaring at Nyx, who sat there in his chair with a huff on his face.

    I... But she... Fuck me, Homie! The Demon sighed, sitting forward with his head in his hands.

    I think not! Lord Erock laughed, And here I thought you were gonna stay out of trouble.

    The laughter continued on as the room began to fill with people. First to arrive were Madrina and Nissa. So happy they were. Next was Zahara and Markus, and she was pestering him about something as they took their seats. Eleven, of her Father's generals were present, as well as her...

    Shit!

   Hello, Euphamia! Her Mother smiled at her, It is good to see you here.

    And where else would she be?

    Now that most of us are here, it has come to my attention that we will need another prison! We're going to need to rebuild both Sanctuary and The Null.

    Rebuild them? Zahara let out. It that safe?

    Their locations are well known now. Anyone can come and go, as they please. Madrina added.

    Which is why they will be heavily guarded... and the portals encoded with security protocols. Mia put her two cents in. We haven't used them for awhile now, but with protocols active and you raise the shields, only those with access will be allowed entry.

     And that, is exactly why you're all here! Lady Ellaria spoke to them. I will raise the shields on all protected worlds, once I am certain the portals are secure.

     And those worlds that have yet to join sides? Of course the Angel would question it, his heart beat for love, the love of all people, not just those who had pledge to fight against the enemy.

     Those who have chosen to remain neutral, will remain just that. The Lady of Light hung her head. I am sorry, Nissa! But by not choosing, they have in fact, chosen!

    Bloody Hell! He muttered, but he knew she spoke the truth.

    So, homework then? For real? And I thought high school was over! Nyx grumbled. How hard is this encoding supposed to be?

     Not bad, but not good! Mia laughed, Remember the outpost?

    Seriously? He grumbled, shaking his head.

    Would you rather find yourself, on the wrong side of the doorway? Lord Eroch grinned, I mean, it would be entertaining, yes. But think of the time you just spent grooming that lovely mane of yours.

    You will all be given a password! Her Mother started, but then paused and waited until they all stopped grumbling, Yes, technology! I know! She rolled her eyes. But it is the only way to defend ourselves, against what is still out there. Lady Ellaria added.

    Passwords! Check! Nyx mumbled again, Anything else, I should add to my list?

    Once The Null has been restored, we will need to hunt down those who belong there, and return them to their cells. Lady Ellaria told him, and they all watched him light up.

    This is going to be epic! Nyx all but sang out, and the whole room waited for him to finish.

    Well I am glad you think so. We'll need that enthusiasm when it comes time to go after the Hosts. Nissa rolled his eyes. So down, boy.

    I'm not a dog...

    Really? Cause I swear I saw a tail wagging!

    Enough! Lord Eroch bellowed, Nyx? You and Euphamia will round up all the those who have made it off world, Zahara and Markus? You both, will help them.

    Road trip! Markus hollered out, and he and Nyx pumped fists in the air as the females rolled their eyes. Hey, Nissa? You jelly?

    Of you two? Hardly! The Angel replied.

    He's jelly! Nyx grinned.

    And moving on... Mia announced. Mother, I assume you and Madrina will make up the scrolls?

    They are already in the works and will be delivered when they are finished. Her Mother replied.

    And what is Nissa doing? Markus inquired.

   Yeah! Nissa's gotta have a job! Nyx added in.

    There are matters of rank and posting to attend to. He replied for her. Paperwork!Things children would know nothing about. Well it seemed that he was back to his cheery self.

    After a huge discussion, on who the children really were, and a heated battle of wits between two of the generals, the meeting came to