Larougo: The Uluru Legacy, #2

By Anna J Walner

The thrilling continuation of the Bestselling Uluru Legacy Series.

 

Larougo is the second Award-Winning book in this series.

 

Still reeling from the ending of Garkain? While some questions will be answered, more will be raised.

 

As new truths come to light, and new evils make themselves known, not everyone will survive.

The vision for a new Colony is at stake as Amelia and Roan discover they're part of something even larger than they thought.

A delicious and compelling continuation of the story that captured the attention of audiences earlier this year. A book with bite, that doesn't disappoint.

 

"Anna J Walner doesn't let her reader's down with the second installment. And still leaves them still craving more!" - Good Reads

"Even more surprising than the first." - Good Reads

• Language: English
• Publisher: Silver Dawn Publishing
• Release date: Nov 2, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201014278

Book preview

Larougo

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Book Two of The Uluru Legacy

Surprise!

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Amelia laid quietly in the hotel bed, concentrating on the frantic heartbeats inside her. Four months ago, she never thought that getting on a plane to Australia could change her life in so many strange and wonderful ways.

She’d found her family, after looking for decades. And by doing so, she found so much more than she ever thought possible. She’d found a life worth dying for. A life she never knew existed. A life she couldn’t imagine any differently.

She’d become a part of the Colony. A secret society formed hundreds of years ago by her ancestors, fleeing Europe to find safety in the heart of a new civilization. Both of their kinds, vampire and lycanthrope, existed now in a strained harmony in the Outback of Australia.

When she chose to Unbind from her mortality, she also made a pact with the Larougo leader Anatole. She agreed to an arranged marriage, a joining, as they called it.

Among the conditions of her accepting Anatole’s proposal were a house in the Outback, where she and Roan could live. As well as agreeing to see if it were possible for them to create a family.

That questions had been answered now, she thought, as she listened, smiling to herself.

As she thought back over the last month or so, she grabbed her phone and quickly checked her calendar. She was late. By at least three or four weeks, maybe more. She’d stopped keeping track shortly after they returned to the States.

The last month had been so hectic with packing and seeing the sights before they flew back to Australia, she couldn’t remember the last time she had her period.

She glanced at Roan, sleeping peacefully beside her, wondering if she should wake him.

They were scheduled to leave for Australia that morning, but now Amelia wondered if that was even a good idea. She did need Roan’s opinion, she realized. He always seemed to have the answers that she needed. Always seemed to know exactly what to say, always knew what she needed to hear.

She gently nudged him until she heard him start to move.

Hey, he said, turning to smile at her, still groggy with sleep. She still couldn’t get past the fact that Anatole had managed to have such a handsome son. Each time he smiled like that, with his hair falling into his dark blue eyes, her heart skipped a beat.

Hey, I’m sorry, she said, returning his sweet smile. But I need to tell you something. Well, actually I need to ask you something.

Okay, he said looking at her with confusion. She didn’t need her gift of empathy to tell her he was more than a little curious about the middle of the night wake up call.

Can you? Okay, just humor me. Can you listen to my stomach? she said.

Gas? he asked with a mischievous look draped over his face.

No! Amelia said, unable to keep herself from laughing. I’m being serious. Can you just . . . listen and tell me what you hear?

The confusion flared inside him again, but he did as she asked, pressing his ear to her stomach.

A little lower, she said, as he shifted his head.

What am I listening for? he whispered after a while.

Being of both Larougo and Garkain bloodlines, she knew that her senses were sharper than his. Her hearing more acute. He may not be able to hear what she did.

She sat up as Roan did the same, a look of concern now replaced the one of confusion.

What’s wrong? he asked, all traces of joking aside. He truly did care for her, she knew. Their relationship had done nothing but grow stronger during the time they’d been together here in the States.

Nothing, I mean, something. But nothing to be scared of. Well, I mean, I’m a little scared, if it’s true, which I’m not sure it is, she rambled.

Amelia, you’re starting to freak me out just a bit, he said.

You know how I’ve been having the hunger attacks lately? And all the sensory overload stuff that’s been coming and going? she asked, as he nodded and waited patiently.

When I was lying here, and the room was completely quiet, I could hear, or I thought I could hear something. Roan, I could hear a set of heartbeats that aren’t mine, she said, pausing to let it sink in.

His face couldn’t help but smile, as the gravity of her news hit him. Amelia, you’re pregnant! he said as he jumped out of bed.

What do we do? What do you think? I mean this is great. It’s great. You think it’s great, right? he said excitedly, pacing back and forth.

Amelia nodded, letting a smile find its way across her face. I think it’s amazing. And scary. And I think we should put off the trip back to Australia, she said, causing his high-strung pacing to slow.

Okay . . .

Just for a little while. I want to see if it’s real. I mean, you didn’t hear anything. What if I’m imagining it? I want to see a doctor before we leave. Here in the States, she said with conviction.

You don’t want anyone knowing about this yet, do you? he said, sensing something in the way she was acting.

"No. At least not yet. I’m still not sure what’s going on with my mother. And what part Ambrose and Anatole play in all of it. If we wait until we go back, there are too many eyes and ears. Somehow, it will get back to one of them. I feel safer doing it here.

Besides, if I’m hearing things, then there’s no reason for them to know anything.

And if you’re right? Roan asked.

She took a deep breath, thinking. Then I’d like to keep this between us for now. It would be our family, and it should be our decision who we tell and when, Amelia said.

I agree. But, can I just say though, that I hope you’re not hallucinating? That I’m choosing to believe you’re right. And that I am beyond elated, he said as he crawled back on the bed, taking her face in his hands and giving her a gentle loving kiss.

You may, Amelia said, stealing a kiss back.

CHANGING THEIR FLIGHT was pretty easy when money wasn’t a factor. They pushed it back one week. Just a week.

Explaining that to her mother, however, was a bit tougher.

What do you mean a week? her mother asked, irritation flowing over the phone.

I have a few more things that I need to take care of. Some last minute things with the realtor that came up. Nothing too important, but I have to take care of them, she tried her best to explain as vaguely as possible.

Well darling, you can do that from here surely, her mother said.

I really can’t, and I’m sorry about the short notice, but a week is hardly forever.

It’s just that we had a coming home party planned, and now I’ll have to postpone it, her mother pouted.

She was trying to make Amelia feel guilty enough to change her mind. But Amelia wasn’t in the mood for her mother’s games of control. Especially not today.

Tell them all that I’ll be home in no time, and I’m sure they will understand. And you’ll have an extra week to coordinate it, Amelia cajoled her in the most convincing tone she could manage while hiding the irritation of her own.

Her grandfather, Ambrose, had been able to build a wall around his emotions, not allowing the empathic gifts of her mother to detect his true feelings. She’d been trying to do the same with her own, and she hoped it was working.

I’m just disappointed. I haven’t seen my girl for so long. I miss you, Amelia, her mother tried one last time.

I know and I miss you all too. I’ll make the next flight, I promise, she said as she pressed the button to end the call.

Pissed? Roan asked, already knowing the answer.

Yup, she kept trying to guilt-trip me. Make me change my mind. I know my experiences with moms aren’t exactly great, but that woman is seriously into the control thing. I’m going to call Ambrose really quick, Amelia said, choosing the next name down on her favorites list.

Amelia, how are you? he asked with a happy tone, although she still couldn’t quite get through that wall.

I’m good grandpa, but I had to push my flight back a bit. Just a week. Everything’s fine, I had a few last minute things come up that I have to take care of with the realtor, she explained, making sure to give him the same story she gave Phoebe, just to be safe.

That’s no problem at all. The house is nearly finished by the way. All we need is you and Roan. And some furniture, which should be arriving this week, he said happily, proud to give her the news.

That’s fantastic, and we can’t wait to see it. I’m sorry to spoil the party though, Amelia said, testing him to see what he might say.

What party? Ambrose asked, then quickly redirected. Oh the party, no worries, we can celebrate when you get back in a week.

Okay Grandpa, I’ll see you in a week. I can’t wait, Amelia said, shooting Roan a look.

Me either, he said and hung up the phone.

There was no party, Roan said exactly what Amelia was thinking.

Why would she lie? Amelia asked. She’s trying to manipulate me. The more and more I talk to her, the more and more I question what’s really going on.

I’ll admit, I was trying to give her a pass before, but I’m kind of with you on this one. Is it 8:00 yet? Roan asked, nervousness clouding his emotions.

Their morning influencing routine had already been done earlier. Amelia climbing into his subconscious and shifting his feelings around, preventing him from turning into his animal self during the day. Now, they were waiting for Doctor’s offices to officially open.

Amelia had already looked up an OBGYN near the airport. All they needed to do was drive to the office, and let Amelia influence the receptionist to get them in. The office officially opened at 8:30.

Almost, Amelia said, as she checked her phone. But we can go ahead and head that way. I’m sure someone is in the office by now.

The driver took a few minutes to get to the hotel, which was fine. They needed to book the room for an additional week anyhow. Not that living in a hotel was an ideal solution, but it’s the only option they had at the moment.

The OBGYN was five minutes from the hotel. Amelia made sure to pick the highest rated one from the page, but also the closest. As they walked into the empty lobby, the receptionist greeted them and Amelia went to work.

Right this way, Miss Smith, she said as she stood from behind the desk and opened the door to the back room. Catching the first Doctor she saw, Amelia did the same influencing trick, telling the nice younger woman that she wanted to see Amelia now, that she felt she needed an ultrasound.

Man, that is a handy trick, Roan said teasingly as the Doctor led them down the hall and into a small and dimly lit room.

Miss Smith, if you’ll lie on the table and pull your pants below your belly button and your shirt up to your bra, we can take a look.

Amelia did as the Doctor instructed, trying to contain her nerves. Excited about what might show up on the screen and terrified of what might not.

The cold and slimy gel was applied to her belly as the Doctor grabbed something connected to a long cord, placing it on her lower abdomen.

She waited, holding her breath, and Roan’s hand for support. 

No heartbeats, nothing, as the Doctor continued to slide the flat paddle over her belly again and again.

We may have to try something different. How far along did you say you were? The doctor asked.

A few weeks maybe, Amelia said, throwing out a random guess.

Just a minute, The Doctor told them, giving Amelia a towel to wipe the gel from her stomach.

A different technique and a different machine immediately picked up the sounds.

Well, there they are, The Doctor said, turning the screen so both she and Roan could see.

Tiny pulses close together showed up on the screen in green and white. You’re going to be a busy mom, The Doctor said with a wide smile.

Why do you say that? Amelia asked, realizing immediately what she was seeing, but still needing to hear it.

Triplets. Congratulations Mom and Dad, she said, withdrawing the ultrasound wand.

Okay, I am officially freaking out now, Amelia said as Roan looked like he was about to vomit.

They thanked the Doctor and made their hasty exit, neither of them daring to speak. Back at the hotel, Amelia was the first to break the silence.

Roan, you’ve got to say something! I’m the one who’s freaking out here, and you’re not helping! Amelia said as she felt panic beginning to set in.

We did it, he said in a far-off tone.

That’s it? We did it? Amelia demanded. Roan, I have three . . . three humans growing inside me. And you’re only comment is, ‘We did it?’ Amelia snapped at him.

I’m in a bit of shock right now, love. I’m excited and ecstatic, but I’m also thinking.

Can you think a little faster please? Amelia said in a tone that even she didn’t like using.

It’s not uncommon for Larougo to have multiples. In fact, it’s quite normal, he said, musing.

That’s really informative, but I need something else. A little support maybe, Amelia’s temper flared without her approval.

Roan stood and stalked straight toward her, kissing her deeply, holding her until he felt her begin to relax. I love you, he whispered.

I love you too, Amelia said as she started to cry.

I am so lucky to have you. And they are so lucky to have you for a mom. This is without a doubt the happiest day of my life so far, he said as he let her go and stared into her teary eyes.

That was perfect, she said, leaning into him again as they stood that way for a while.

Are you hungry? he asked as she nodded. Then let’s go grab some breakfast. Because I am starved.

You’re always starved, Amelia shot back, smiling.  

Killing Time

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They chose a diner that looked less crowded than the other ones around the airport. Fewer people meant an easier chance to feed without anyone noticing. Roan didn’t care where they ate as long as there was plenty of food.

While he ordered, Amelia walked to the counter, staring at the waitress behind the glass, then following her into the restroom. Her usual routine for mealtimes, while Roan sat at the table awaiting his breakfast.

How do you feel? he asked once she sat back down at the table.

Fine, Amelia said simply.

No, I mean, I guess, don’t pregnant women usually have morning sickness or cravings? I was thinking about that while we were at the Doctor’s office. I’m sure you’ll experience some effects from the pregnancy, he reasoned over waffles with bacon.

I have no idea, but I can tell you that the sugar bomb you have on your plate doesn’t interest me at all, Amelia said with a smile.

Have you been hungrier for blood lately? More thirsty? I know there were a few episodes when we first got back to the States. I know you weren’t pregnant then. But in the last month, you’ve had a few spells like the first one. We don’t really know what to expect because Garkain can’t have children. Until now, that is. I’m just trying to guess what we should expect.

Amelia shrugged. To be honest, your guess is probably better than mine. What about my Larougo side, anything you know to expect there?

"My degree is in genetics, not obstetrics, so the best thing we could do would be to ask one of the other mothers in the pack. The best person to talk to would be Gwen.

But I will say that increased appetite is one thing. Denning, or nesting as American’s call it, is another important one, especially for us. Elevated hormone levels may make you a little . . . moody, he said sheepishly.

When we get back, we can ask. We have the communal den as you know, and also rooms specifically for expecting mothers. Once they deliver, they move back to the communal den after a few months, he explained.

What about all the things you’re supposed to do before, like Doctor’s visits and things like that? How do they get to the hospital? What if it’s daytime when they go into labor? Amelia rattled off a series of questions as Roan listened, his eyes growing wider as he stayed silent and trance-like.

Roan!

Amelia, I don’t know anything about any of this. The women are the ones who support each other during pregnancies. It’s not that the men don’t want to be involved, and they are. After. But the women of the Den are pretty serious about the role they all play. It’s a pack society so the older women act as the support systems for others, staying with the moms through the whole process.

"That actually sounds sweet. But I demand that you be involved!" Amelia said giving him a deadly serious stare.

Roan put his hands up in surrender, Easy, I will be, I promise. I’m thrilled to be a part of it all, he said with a smile.

So, what about the rest of it? Amelia pushed for answers to her other questions.

Oh, well, no hospitals, and no Doctor’s visits. As I mentioned, we have midwives, and the closest OBGYN is in Perth, which is ten hours away. Everything is done there at the den.

Now Amelia’s eyes shot wide. Wait, no hospital? No Doctors? What if something goes wrong?

And what if the patient goes full dingo once the sun comes up? Roan said with mock seriousness. "Sometimes things do go wrong, but rarely. I know it’s scary, but you’ll be in Perth. We’re not going to take any chances, okay? he said as he reached across the table and grabbed her hands. We’re in this together, I promise."

And promise me that this is our thing. No Phoebe or Anatole or Ambrose in the waiting room, she tried to laugh, but for some reason, she expected having to deal with something like that.

I promise.

Oh shit! Amelia said, putting her hands over her face.

What? What! Roan said, nearly jumping out of his seat.

Do you realize how fat I’m going to be in December! Amelia groaned.

Oh my God, don’t do that. You scared me half to death.

We’re already dead, remember? Amelia said, shooting him a smirk.

I just wanted to wear a pretty dress and do the girly thing. I mean, I don’t know how you do the joining exactly, but I’m assuming it’s a ceremony of some kind. And we already brought one part of my tradition into it, I thought maybe we could include a few other things as well, she said pouting.

We still can, I guess. I’m not sure what all you have in mind, he answered her.

Well, a dress for me, and I bet you look fantastic in a suit. Maybe a ceremony and reception at night. Like a party. That’s what we do here with a wedding, or something similar to that, she said.

"When we do the joining ritual, it’s pretty simple. Anatole presides with a few words and small gifts are given to the couple.

I don’t see why your idea should be a problem at all. And apparently, you’ve already got a party scheduled in your honor for when you get home, he said with a snarky wink.

How about we do it then? Is that crazy? Amelia asked.

Yes.

Roan . . . she teased.

Yes, it’s crazy, but I love it. It’s your choice. I’m just along for the ride. But I don’t know how your mother will feel about you highjacking her imaginary party, he said.

Amelia though for a minute. I think it’s perfect. And I think it’ll force her to step back a bit. And I’m not going to tell her. I’m going to tell Ambrose. Amelia sat back in her chair with her arms crossed.

You are brave, Roan said, watching her pull out her phone.

And it’ll tell us exactly who’s in on what. Something this big, he wouldn’t keep Phoebe out of the loop if they were in on this together, Amelia said.

Good point. he agreed.

Ambrose answered on the second ring. Hi Grandpa, Amelia said in an excited tone.

Amelia, is everything okay? she couldn’t ignore the sound of concern in his tone this time.

Yes, I’m fine, I’m just having breakfast with Roan before we meet the realtor this morning. But I wanted to run something by you. I just thought about it after we hung up this morning, she said, thinking quickly.

Okay . . . he said as she caught a feeling of worry slip through.

Roan and I have been talking and we’d like to go ahead and do the joining ceremony when we get back. I know we had said December, but we talked about it and there’s really no reason to wait, she said.

It’s whatever you’d like, sweetheart, he said. But she