The Mage Rebellion Consequences: The Mage Rebellion, #5

By Brooke Gaspard

History has a funny way of coming back to bite me in the ass. But, not like little mosquito bites, oh no, this was more like a Rottweiler with a bone. New discoveries coming to light have left me in a state of disbelief as I try to piece together what the war has torn apart. The battles rage and the blood runs thick. The dark shadow in the back of my mind whispers suggestions that start to sound better and better as the people around me lose faith and crumble. They choose to sit by and let a crazy wanna be queen rule one of the most powerful realms in the universe, hoping that an opportunity would present itself to attack. Well. . . I'm tired of waiting. She murdered my beloved aunt and friend. She's tried to kill me and nearly succeeded. It's time to do things my way and this queen has some heads to collect.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Brooke Gaspard
• Release date: Nov 6, 2023
• ISBN: 9798223798873

Brooke Gaspard

Brooke Gaspard is a native of southwest Louisiana. She loves to connect with her readers to talk about the books or just connect with one another. You can contact her on Facebook page The Mage realm or on ticktock and instagram. You can find her when she is not lost in her own imaginary world gardening, tending to animals, at a good rock concert,  or homeschooling her two children. She is an avid reader, always up for some wild adventure, a watcher of hell's kitchen, and Joe Kendra. She can not wait to see everyone in the next book for another part of the adventure and would love to hear your thoughts. Until next time, keep causing Chaos and Mayhem.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Y ou have only been away from home for two weeks. Delhar, slow down.

Delhar ran his hands through his already messy blond hair for what seemed like the millionth time. It feels like a year. I know my people got out, but I want to put her in the ground for this.

I smirked, seeing the same thing I had gone through playing out on his face. Delhar, I am not trying to be rude, but this is sensitive and we have to approach this the proper way. When we go after her again, we can not have any room for errors.

Delhar’s head jerked around, his eyes narrowing on me for a moment before he spat out loudly. Are you finding this funny in some way?

I raised an eyebrow, pursing my lips tightly, refusing to answer him. That’s when his nostrils flared and he stomped toward the war room door. I believe it is late enough for me to catch some sleep. I will see you in the morning.

With the final slam of the door, he was gone, and I sighed loudly, slumping down into my high-back chair. Normally, this would be the moment my aunt would show up with a smoke in hand and a smirk painting her face. She would know that I did in fact find this situation ironic.

Rough night?

I frowned, looking toward the door where Sophia stood silently watching me. I gave her a tired nod as she took the seat Delhar had just removed himself from. We are standing still again, Sara.

I kept silent for a few seconds before shrugging. I can’t find her blind spot and trust me, everyone is looking, even the Fae realm. She raised a manicured eyebrow, smirking. So, you are still speaking to them?"

I pulled my jacket closer around me as I pulled out a smoke. Why are you really here, Sophia?

She watched me closely for a moment, bristling at my refusal to answer her question before she pushed forward. Sara, can we play the what if game?

Pouring myself another drink I gave her a slow smile. Sure, Sophia, you start.

Leaning back in her chair she laughed softly. What if we win this? What will happen with us? I mean, we are friends, but I’m now under Drake’s reign.

Snapping my gaze to the door I slammed it shut with my magic, smirking. Now that we know the door is closed and no one can listen in, I will answer. I plan on opening borders with Drake. Sure, his people may go home with him, but some can stay here if they want. I hope to do the same with the Middlanders peacefully, might I add.

Smirking Sophia chewed on her lip for a long moment. If you kill her, that puts you on the Underworld, Above realm, Mage realm, and Middlander realms thrones. You realize that is four, that’s right, count them Sara. Four thrones. What are you going to do?

Tearing my gaze from hers to look outside at the clear blue sky I shook my head as I thought it all over. "Delhar is and always will be the ruler of the Middlanders. So, technically that would be three.

I will have Lor ruling over the Underworld when I’m absent. Fiona will fill my seat here when I’m in one of the realms. I really don’t think this what if is going to happen though Sophia, but hey we shall see."

Nodding Sophia remained silent causing me to look at her sharply. What if we were to win? What is going to happen with you and Drake?

Laughing softly Sophia picked at her shirt for a moment. Slowly her striking blue eyes came up to lock with mine. If we keep going the way we are going, I may just be happy with him.

Raising both of my eyebrows I widened my eyes in shock. And you will become the Dragon Queen. Should I bow to you or what?

Snorting loudly Sophia pushed herself up from the chair. Yes, and I want your nose to touch the floor when you do it, dear friend.

I drank the rest of my drink, watching as she sauntered toward the door, stopping abruptly. I just want you to be happy, my friend. You deserve it. I don’t want to lose you. I know you are not the love of my life and I am not yours, but I don’t know if I could survive without my other half.

I looked down at my desk, feeling a pit of snakes wanting to consume me. Maybe you should think about how to live without me, Sophia. I may not survive this, and I don't want to be your downfall.

She laughed softly, shaking her long black hair, her ice-blue eyes reaching the depths of my soul as she whispered. You can not leave these realms, or any other, for that matter. You are the glue that holds us all together. Sara, you keep us fighting and finding joy in our cold and miserable lives.

Leaning back I put my feet on my desk as I sneered at her watching her slow nod as her nervous voice met my ears softly. You don’t believe me, do you? Sara, you will see. You are the reason I’m still alive.

Cocking my head to the side I watched as she rushed out of the room, leaving me alone for the first time that day and night.

Reaching into my desk I pulled out my aunt’s letter, looking it over slowly. I never would have thought I would ever feel the loss of a loved one like this again. When I thought about William, I was relieved more than anything else.

Yes, I thought I had mourned my daughter, but things were happening so fast then. Honestly I hadn’t had time to process it when it happened.

My step mother’s death had hit me hard too. I had loved her. She didn’t give me life, but she taught me how to live. She tried to teach me how to let go of the anger and hate so much that I think she took on some of my anger as her own.

My father had been a bittersweet death. I loved him, the man he had become, a kind and caring old man, but the man he had been when I had first met him was not a man I loved. The feelings I harbored for that man were dark.

Then there was J. He had hurt me by leaving, and that’s what I had focused on the most. Until this point, I had never really allowed others to get close enough to feel anything deep when they died, or maybe I just never allowed myself to feel the pain.

My aunt, she had done nothing to hurt me. She always did everything out of love and with love to me. She may have hurt others, but never me.

I shook my head, clearing it of all my thoughts as I folded the letter back up, tucking it back into its hiding place. That stupid little box I had been hiding those memories and emotions in was getting full. I was having trouble pushing it all away. That’s not something I was used to. I had been trained that emotions and attachments were wrong and would only get me killed, so what had changed? When did I change?

My Queen, is this a bad time?

Raising an eyebrow I slowly looked up at the intruder. Leo, right?

Giving me a bright smile he made his way into the room. His lean form and long legs ate the distance up quickly. It’s the new haircut, isn’t it?

Nodding I took in his almost six foot two height, and that was with slumped shoulders. I was just coming up to check in with you and make sure that it's not the Therians that are being suspected of helping her.

My eyes flashed black as I raised my chin, pointing to the seat across from me. And just who said someone has been helping her?

Leo cleared his throat nervously, his almost black eyes turning away from me in fear as his large muscular hands ran down his jeans.

I know I shouldn’t have been listening in on her conversation but I was just in the treeline, naked, after turning back from the full moon and couldn’t avoid it.

I kept my sharp eyes on him, remaining silent, watching as he squirmed under my gaze.

The King of the Middlanders, mother. She was out with a man cloaked in what seemed to be the darkness itself. They were in a heated argument about how no one must know that there was a betrayal. That he need not worry his pretty little head about all of that and to just let her deal with it.

That had me pulling in a deep, grounding breath as I stood up, making my way around my desk, watching his face for any sign that he might be lying. Did she say anything else?

Leo shook his head swiftly, his dark eyes looking fearful as he thought back to the moment. I just thought that would be the reason we were not being told about the betrayal. You know, because we were suspects.

Shaking my head I let a small smile paint my face. "The Therians are no suspects of mine. You are not on my list of people to watch. You need us to survive this just as much as we need you to survive this.

As the Queen of the mages, I’m sorry you haven’t been more a priority to me and my people. That will be remedied soon. You have my promise.

Thank you for the information Leo. Please do not repeat what you heard. I wish to handle this on my own."

Leo’s face brightened quickly as he clumsily stood. Yes, ma’am, I would never, Leo didn’t get to finish his sentence. All communication between his brain and mouth seemed to jam as Lor shadowed into the room.

I turned slowly to where his eyes had locked onto finding Lor smirking at him. Ah, and my midnight friend has stopped by with no gift. How rude of him.

Lor’s eyes almost glowed golden as they stayed fixed on Leo. Lor, is there a problem?

Clearing his throat Lor managed to tear his eyes from Leo as a deep frown formed on his face. No, my Queen. I was merely coming to check in and make sure everything is dull here, just like it is in the Underworld.

Laughing softly I raised an eyebrow locking my eyes on Lor’s. As you can see, everything is perfectly quiet here-

Just as I went to finish my sentence, Leo seemed to have found his more confident voice. I will be taking my leave then, Queen Sara. If there is nothing else to discuss. I looked back at him, watching as he swiftly left the room.

I knew what that was. Lor did what he always did to others. He made them either curious, nervous, or, and this wasn’t a rare one outside of the underworld, attracted. That’s why I pretended to pout as I rolled my eyes at Lor petulantly. You scared him away.

Flashing me a bright smile Lor tore his eyes away from the open door. That’s my job as your best friend, is it not?

Rolling my eyes I made my way to the door, closing it softly as I sighed, letting Lor continue on swiftly. Besides, he’s too much man for you.

Sneering I leaned toward Lor giving him an ugly look.  Lor, he’s my ex stalker's son.

That had Lor’s head shaking as he took my drink from my desk, taking a long deep swig from it. Sara, age is just a number. When will you ever learn that?

Wrinkling my nose at him I plopped down in my chair like a teen. Sure, gramps age is just a number.

Leveling his dark gaze on me Lor nodded slowly. Just like you are acting like a teen and not a woman over five thousand years old. Age is just a number. If you let it, it will age your mind and make you old and feeble physically.

Crossing my arms over my chest I gave Lor a dark sarcastic smirk. And just what age do you think my mind is, Lor?

Leaning toward me, Lor narrowed his now black eyes on me. At times, I wonder if you are not two. Then there are times I find you older than myself.

Grabbing another clean glass, I poured myself another drink. Delhar is angry with me, again.

Shaking his head Lor looked to the heavens for a moment before speaking. It’s difficult for him to not be in his home. Just as it was for you. Please, Sara, school your face when you are speaking with him about all of this.

I put my hand to my chest, acting as if I were shocked for a second. Like he did with me? Why am I supposed to be the better person all the damn time? Why can’t I just let loose and my tongue fly? I hate being so fucking proper and correct all the time. I just want to let everyone hear what is on my mind and not give two flying shits about what they think.

Lor’s loud laugh filled the room as he set his drink down roughly. And you keep yourself all proper and correct when you are speaking with me?

Frowning at him I nodded adamantly. I am always analyzing my words with everyone, including you, Lor.

Suddenly his long deft fingers were tapping on the desk. His irritation with me was mounting, causing him to grate out roughly. Even with Sophia?

Heaving myself out of my chair, feeling restless again, I paced the length of the room. Ever since she became a person and not the voice in my head, I have found myself keeping my distance from her.

Just as Lor opened his mouth to ask the same question I had asked myself a million times before, I tossed my hands in the air, annoyed.

I don’t fucking know why for sure, but I suspect it is because she knows me too well. I don’t want to feel the sting of her betrayal when she decides to turn against me.

My confession had Lor’s dark eyebrow raising in disbelief for the second time that night. I could have sworn I saw his black eyes glow for just a moment before he smoothly responded. And you think she will betray you, Sara? You know, if you think she is, then I will take her out the second you tell me to. I don’t care who she thinks she is. She will not do harm to you. No one will again.

Twisting my fingers together I managed a single shake of my head before shrugging feeling defeated as I bowed my head. I don’t want her to, but something keeps telling me she will.

A knowing smile suddenly painted Lor’s face as he looked down into my nervous face. His hands came down gently to rest on my shoulders as he sighed. That is called fear. That is something your mother instilled in you very well.

Shoving his hands off my shoulders I pulled myself together for the second time that night. What of the Underworld?

Stepping away from me, Lor kept his black eyes locked on me, as he made his report of nothing changing and how everything was normal downstairs. So to speak. Lor knew I wouldn’t move forward with our previous conversation. There were too many emotions tied into it.

Well, if that is all, I believe I will head to bed for the night and try to get myself together for our next battle and finding her weakness. Lor watched as I made my way to the door before shadowing to my room. I don’t know why he had stood there for so long, but at this point, I didn’t really care. I just needed space.

The next morning, I stood in my room with a pen in one hand and a cup of coffee in the other. My mind was on a million other things and just one seemed to be the hangnail of them all. How would she know we suspected a traitor? She wasn’t in on the conversation, and I don’t think Delhar would be discussing things with her. With Demarcouse, yes, but not her.

You have been writing things down. That's never a good sign. I looked up from my paper, frowning at Morganna for a few moments, pulling my mind from my thoughts.

You know me. I can never keep it straight in my head. I have to write it down so that it is out of my mind and organized on something tangible.

Laughing softly Morganna sauntered her way toward me. Or you are making arguments for and against something and are trying to understand which way you are heading with the argument.

Raising an eyebrow slowly, I set my pen down on the paper as shock crept across my face as Morganna kept speaking. We have been friends for far too long. Sophia being out of your head will not change a thing about your normal habits, Sara.

Taking a deep drink from my coffee I let my eyes close, feeling the liquid drain all the way down into my empty stomach before I spoke intently to Morganna. I don’t want to go making accusations that could be false.

A knowing smile crept across Morganna’s perfect bow lips as she leaned toward me. "I do not envy you, even a little Sara. Every move you make is calculated from what you wear to what you say and do. When will you be able to drop the facade you are wearing daily?

I mean, do you even remember who you really are anymore?"

Her question had my eyes lowering to the floor as I sank back down on the couch speaking monotone. "I am Sara. My mother was a demon queen and my father was a mage king. I am an unwanted child that has fought her way through the darkness and always won. I don't know if that is fate or luck, but I know I’m a survivor.

I am Sara and I have forgotten how to have fun and find joy in the small things because the small things are far and few between. I have lost too many friends and family to count, but yet they all impacted my life and I am tired. That is who I am at this point in my life."

Morganna pulled out a pack of smokes, speaking kindly. Thought you might be running low on these.

I reached for them, causing her to pull them away from me swiftly. Whatever it is you are over there writing about, you are overthinking it and should just act on it. Trust me, friend.

I watched as she fixed her clothes, sassing all the way to the door about how she knew best, and that was that. She closed the door firmly behind her.

When eleven rolled around I forced myself to get dressed and actually managed to get out of my musty rooms. I would drive myself crazy with questions if I didn’t.

The castle was its normally busy self as I made my way down the stairs, hesitating on the second landing.

There he was, standing at the bottom, just like so many years ago. The only change was that Rei was next to him with Anya and, honestly, it looked perfect.

William,

Giving me his brightest smile William turned looking me up and down, taking in my corset and jeans. You know what Sara, I changed my mind. I like you more now than I did before we were married.

His teasing confession had my eyes rolling as I jerked my hand out of his, avoiding his incoming lips. William, I’m afraid to ask why.

Shrugging he followed closely behind me, obviously enjoying my frustration and disgust. The clothes are a good start. Let’s not even mention your confidence and attitude. Darling, they are quite endearing.

I wanted to ignore him but continued with the witty conversation out of the need for entertainment and distraction. If I remember correctly, you didn’t like my spitfire attitude and disobedience when we were younger. As far as the clothes, well, these were frowned upon for an unmarried girl.

Laughing softly William easily fell into step next to me. Yes, well, I have changed and now I find it endearing.

Sighing out my annoyance I turned to face the man that once was my husband. Don’t even try to charm your way into my pants or heart again, William. It won’t happen. I remember who you were and what you used to do when no one was looking. You can hide them well, but you can not change them.

Giving me his famous lopsided grin, that normally melted anyone’s heart but mine, William leaned toward me. Yes well, you believe what you wish, Sara, but I know I’m a different person. I don’t want to prove it to you. I just want you to remember I loved you back then, too. You were the one that didn’t love me.

Raising an eyebrow I swiftly stepped away from him. My nerves hitting an all time high. I refused to be pulled into self searching because of him. The best thing I could do was get away from him, but how? William seemed to be everywhere all the damn time, like a rat scurrying away from the light.

Chapter 2

S ara, what happened between my mother and I.. Throwing my hand up I halted all of Delhar’s words as I pulled my hair back in preparation for a few rounds of sparring.

We hadn’t spoken on the subject since that night and I really didn’t want to talk about it now. Delhar, that is between your mother and you. That is the only way this is going to work between you and me. You deal with your shit and if you need advice or a shoulder, I am here for you.

A frown coated Delhar’s normally stoic face as he nodded dumbly. Are you preparing for battle?

I shook my head as a thought crept into my mind, almost as if someone else were whispering it to me softly. Delhar, what if we took Darrian and I’s old home back? I mean, think with me for a moment. Their plans, they have to be somewhere in that house. That was their primary base for too long, something was bound to be left behind.

Suddenly Delhar was standing straighter, his clear blue eyes became unfocused as a slow smirk crossed his lips. That could work. I mean, what’s the worst that can happen? We just take back something she wants?

Rolling my shoulders back I absently nodded.  It was my home, so if she really wants to take everything from me, we start small and take it all back. Then we move onto the vampires. We need to find out what she has over them to have them helping her the way they are.

Stepping toward me Delhar’s voice lowered to a conspiratorial whisper. We can go tonight, take just a few, fifty at the most. It can be last minute that we gather them.

I felt Delhar’s lips kiss my forehead as he finished speaking. His strong hands gripped my hips gently. You are the smartest queen I have ever known, Sara.

Guilt and worry twisted my gut tightly as I rolled my eyes, speaking softly I refused to look up at him. Did you tell your mother of our plan before she took over the Middlander realm?

Shock and worry took Delhar a step away from me as his blue eyes struck deep with confusion. She was in the room when I was talking it over with Demarcouse.

His revelation had me pulling away, needing distance from him as I made my way to the door desperately. I didn’t want to say it. Damn it, I didn’t want to be the one to do this. I just wanted to keep this one single thing to myself and for once not be right.

Just as my fingers brushed the door knob Delhar snatched my arm up, spinning me around quickly before shoving the door closed behind me, effectively trapping me. Why Sara?

Pursing my lips, I cast my gaze to the ceiling above him, trying to avoid his intense scrutiny. I don’t know why, but I don’t like it. Your mother should not know of anything we are doing. She needs to stay out of it.

Stepping away from me quickly Delhar shook his head as he fumbled with his words. You think she went and told her our plan and weaknesses?

Delhar’s tone told me it wasn’t a question, it was an accusation, and I hated it. I hated it because it was putting distance between us.

Pulling in a deep breath I gave him a slight reluctant nod as I licked my lips nervously. I don’t want to, but she has so many motives.

Delhar’s disbelieving laugh fell from his lips effortlessly. That is the same thing Demarcouse said this morning.

Shit, this wasn’t going the way I wanted. That’s why I was frozen in my spot. I didn’t know they had been talking about it. Hell, I didn’t know Demarcouse of all beings in all the damn realms would think the same thing I was. Delhar, I didn’t speak with anyone about my thoughts. Not even Lor.

Leaning down slowly Delhar kissed my cheek lovingly.  As a Middlander, I have to have proof just like I told my brother. Otherwise, it will be unjustifiable to mete out justice on her.

Swiftly stepping away from him I shook my head wanting to be clear on my next demand. Delhar, don’t even attempt to do that.

My snapping voice had Delhar watching me through narrowed eyes. His face was suddenly set in stone, emotionless. Are you planning on getting proof, Sara? And if so, how?

Refusing to meet his gaze I rolled my head around on my shoulders, forcing out roughly.  I have my ways Delhar, trust me.

With that, I effectively ended the conversation by leaving the room. I didn’t want him to know my ways, and I sure as hell didn’t want him to have a way to argue with the evidence.

Hours later, as the sun slowly sank in the sky. I stood looking myself over again in the new full body armor. I hated wearing it. It was loud and bulky. The only good thing it would do was signal my return to every living creature in a million miles.

Growling darkly, I peeled the top breast plate off, tossing it to the side.  You always did hate not being able to feel the air around you.

William’s voice had me turning slowly to lock eyes with him. He wasn’t wrong but there was a perfectly logical reason of why. The elements are my friends. I can’t think when they are not around me.

Giving me his famous melting, lopsided smile William watched me sharply. Well, at least you have shoes on for today.

Giving him an uncaring shrug I glanced down at my black bellpin boot shrugging. A missing toe might make a man lose interest in me.

William’s laugh sounded around me like a warm blanket bringing some strange sense of comfort in the chaos. Why are you being my friend, William? We hated each other so much in the end.

Keeping his casual pose against the door frame William watched as I turned back to the mirror. I have had years of thinking and learning on how to be a good man without you. During that time, I wondered what would have been if I could have been a better man to you and for our daughter.

Letting my gaze fall to the floor I remained still as a stone as William kept whispering to me softly. "Who would our daughter have looked like most? Would she be like you or me? Would we have stayed together for her?

Sara, I can’t apologize enough for what I did to you all those years ago. I can’t express my sorrow and regret enough to you for not protecting her or even you enough from myself and them.

I will forever blame myself for her death and everything that has happened to you. Our time may have been missed and I may not have been the man you needed me to be then, but I am hellbent on being the friend you need now. I don’t care what it takes. I will protect you this time around."

Clenching my jaw I tried to blink the tears away as I gave William a nervous smile. He had said things I needed to hear. I would never love William. He and I were not compatible, but maybe we could be friends.

Clearing my throat from the clog of emotions I locked eyes with him. You know, I like to think she would have been like you before I rejected you and tore you down. The you that deserved a better woman than I could have ever given you.

William cautiously made his way into my room, shoving the door closed behind him. I like to think she would have been just, fair, and strong willed like you.

Wrinkling my nose I tore my eyes from his quickly. We will never know, so we shouldn’t be playing the what if game Will. It’s dangerous for both of us.

William’s loud snort sounded in the silent room as his finger tips grazed my cheek. I know our time has passed and I want nothing other than to be your friend. Showing your emotions won’t be dangerous, not with me, Sara.

His words had me pushing his hand away so that I could tug at my arm plates. Apparently, William would have to be taught who I was once again. I didn’t let my friends know my emotions, hell, not even my hopes or dreams. I couldn’t trust them.

I have a war to win. I don’t have time to play these mind games with myself or anyone else right now. With that, I slammed my sword into her place, giving him a dark smirk. It's time to go, my friend. Get your head right.

The night air was crisp and cool, the feeling of winter trying to linger and cling to whatever it could for the last few days. The only sounds were from that of my men.

Sudden movement and light from the front door being opened sent us all into a crouching stance. I sat watching the man smoke his cigarette and nodded for the commencement of battle.

Our normal chaotic battle had my vampire guise surging forward as I went straight for the door, taking only the beings that got in my way down. Something was driving me into that house. The need to get there was thick and unrelenting in my mind and heart. I didn’t know why, but I had to follow my instincts.

Shoving the heavy wooden door open I sent people flying to the floor with my magic. I was like a madman attacking as I rushed my way through the house. My men behind me were killing beings I left alive as they followed behind me. Then I reached it.

The door to my original room was shut tight. The size of it was still simple but in my mind it was foreboding.

Hesitantly I made my way up to the oak door and attempted to push it open roughly. Unfortunately it wouldn’t budge.

Damn.

Spinning on my heel I let a slow smirk cross my lips as my eyes found a former ally standing lazily against the door frame across the hall watching me curiously. Why that door Sara?

Putting my back to the smooth wooden door I raised my chin, hearing the clang of steel as I raised an eyebrow. What’s your next move, Warren?

Keeping his dark eyes locked on mine he opened his hand, dropping his sword quickly to his feet before disappearing. The sound of the clanging metal bounced off the walls loudly.

There were still allies in the Above realm. That meant we still had a chance.

With that understanding, I finally allowed myself to feel a tiny ray of hope as I dragged in my first full deep breath in months. Releasing it noisily through clenched teeth I spun back around to where he had been before going to the door that used to be my old room.

Searing burning pain shot through my hand, causing my skin to sizzle the moment my hand grasped the doorknob. They had magically rigged the door. That could only mean one thing, there was something behind it that we shouldn’t have. Now I didn’t want it. I needed it.

The sound downstairs was dying down quickly and here I was standing at this particular door, just looking at it like a dumbass. The door had an anti-magic charm on it, which meant I couldn’t force my way in with my magic or my vampire strength. She was thinking way ahead of me.

My eyes ran over the door Warren had been standing in front of for just a second before I was rushing into that room, turning it upside down. The key to that room had to be in here somewhere.

What are you doing, Sara?

Turning slowly I found Demarcouse watching me as if I had lost my mind. I’m looking for the key to that locked room. I want to know whats in it.

A frown painted Demarcouse’s face, but he didn’t argue. Instead he started rummaging around in the things I had turned over, smirking as he looked on the back side of a drawer. Would this key be big and bronze looking? Kind of clunky and. . .

Snatching the key out of his hand I shoved my way past him hurriedly. Don’t worry, I will do the honors.

Snorting loudly Demarcouse followed close behind me. And just what the absolute fuck is in that room, Sara?

Turning the key in the lock, I held my breath as the loud click sounded around us. The thick heavy door swung open slowly, letting me come face to face with a young girl that had ghost white skin. Her silver eyes glowing in the dim light.

My eyebrows shot up into my hairline as she shook her head adamantly sending her purple bobbed hair flying around her wildly. Suddenly she was trying to pull away from me screeching at the top of her lungs. The darkness, it has come just like they said it would. Please, I am innocent. I am human.

Shock rippled through me causing me to tentatively step toward her. Unfortunately that only caused her to begin yanking harder on her chains causing blood to flow thickly from her wrists.

That's when I began my retreat from her causing Demarcouse to make his way deftly over to the tiny petite thing of a girl frowning. He had caught sight of her dragon scales peeking out from her skin on her strong right cheek and jawline. Those scales were the same purple as the streaks in her hair, which was something I now found odd.

The moment Demarcouse was next to her, the girl screamed louder. Her thrashing seemed to only redouble as she attempted to get away from him. True to Demarcouse though he swiftly knelt down next to her pouring on his thick, calming voice. I am Demarcouse and I am here to help you. First, I need to know who you are.

The girl looked up into his eyes, shock written on beautiful face thickly as she stuttered out softly. Dragona.

Dropping my vampire guise, I watched her curiously, wondering if my old age was catching up with me or if I had heard her name correctly.  If I heard her correctly, I knew I was cursed. I had to be. The lady fates were cruel, but this cruelty was hard to believe.

Reaching into the nearest closet I pulled out clothes for her. Shockingly they were some of my old clothes. Sending the black tee shirt and jeans sailing in the air to her I forced myself to speak kindly. Dragona, you may want to get dressed. There are plenty of men downstairs and you are quite an eyeful for them.

Demarcouse shot me a dark look as I smirked. Trust me, it's for her own good.

With that, I was turning slowly away from her, making my way out of the room and toward the stairs, when her voice stopped me abruptly. You are the one they want, aren’t you?

Her question had me suddenly pivoting to face her as a smirk painted my face. She was now pulling on my shirt. Her wrists were finally free but still bleeding and I couldn’t stop my eyes from following the slow drips down her arm.

Nodding silently for just a moment I finally tore my eyes from the blood to look her in the eye. I’m always the one they want.

Those beautiful silver eyes shot wide as I gave her an uncaring shrug before heading back to the stairs as I spoke over my shoulder. You will come back to the mage realm.

Dragona’s soft gasp filled the tension filled air behind me thickly. The what?

Turning quickly I watched her through angry eyes, feeling as if she were going to try and fight me on the statement. You will come with us to the Mage realm. My realm. You will be safe there. I can not keep you safe here and they obviously want you seeing as they locked you up in this room.

Dragona rubbed at her wrist nervously. I don’t know what you are talking about. I was out on a date one moment and the next I was here with some freaks teeth in my neck daily. They were like an occult or something. I have to get out of here or he will be back. He said he couldn't kill me, but he would turn me.

My eyes flickered orange as I cocked my head to the side, my eyes going to Demarcouse as I whispered.Occult or something. You don’t know what these people are?

Pulling away from Demarcouse she shook her head swiftly. They are crazy. They think they are freaking vampires. All of them need mental help.

Swallowing thickly I took a slow step away from her. This girl had no clue what she had walked into. Maybe the damn scales were makeup. Maybe I wasn’t as cursed as I thought I was. Either way, she had to come with us.

That’s when Demarcouse’s voice caught up in my brain. Don’t worry, we will help you. We are an elite force of the police. We have been dealing with these types of people on a daily basis and you need to come with us unless you would like to be caught again.

Shit, this was going to be a full on problem. Raising an eyebrow I shook my head watching the two numbly. Now I knew what drew Fiona to him. Demarcouse was kind and gentle. He was always trying to keep fear at bay for others.

Pushing those thoughts away I locked my eyes on Dragona sharply. Did they ever say anything in front of you?

Swiftly shaking her head she put an enormous distance between us as she let her harsh gaze land on me once more. Her mesmerizing eyes looking me up and down distastefully bringing me back to my childhood in one swift moment. Why do you have a blackness covering you?

Damn, wasn’t that the question of my life? A question I didn’t want answered. Clearing my throat loudly I walked away from her, refusing to entertain the subject any further as I pushed my way through the dead bodies to Delhar’s side once I made it down the stairs.

Leaning toward him I managed to murmur softly. There is a girl upstairs. She thinks we are the human police. I need to get her into the castle so that we can find out what she knows without her seeing the dragons. Got any bright ideas?

Laughing loudly Delhar shook his head in disbelief, his blue eyes finally came down to meet mine, finding me seriously watching him. Holy shit, are you serious, Sara?

Tossing my hands in the air I nodded quickly as I growled under my breath. For the love of the underworld, this time I’m serious. In any other situation I would be like fuck it, let’s burst her bubble and worry about it another time. Problem is she has scales.

Rolling his beautiful blue eyes Delhar shook his head as he cast a swift glance around us.And what, you think she’s a mermaid or something and doesn’t know it?

Pulling out my smoke I sneered up at him. My nerves were now on edge as I fidgeted. Her name is Dragona.

Delhar looked at me as if I had lost my mind before making his way to the kitchen. Ok, her parents were eccentric, Sara. I mean, if I have read about them, I am sure you have to.

Snatching his arm up roughly I leaned toward him annoyed. Would you stop being so fucking sarcastic? That's my job, damn it. She has scales and silver hair. There is purple in her hair and she looks like my aunt. Damn it Delhar, I think she's my aunt's daughter and doesn't know it.

That had him peeking around the corner so that he could watch her coming down the hall as he frowned, whispering to me. I think you are reaching Sara. Now I will go back and get the dragons to be prepared for a human to come into your world. We can get the mages to hide the dragons while we get info from her, but that's all I will entertain at the moment.

Raising my chin in defiance, I couldn’t help but put more distance between us. Delhar’s sudden attitude change was annoying causing me to snap. You go do what you need to do, Delhar. Just remember not a fucking word to your lovely little mother. Got it?

Delhar gave me a sharp look before rolling his eyes at me making his way into the living room. I saw the second his eyes caught sight of a picture of me and Darrian together. His body tensed as those blue eyes shot to me for just a single second before he was shaking his head. I will let you go through this place without someone over your shoulder. Demacrouse can stay for your protection.

I didn’t want Demacrouse staying but still I found myself pushing past Delhar, not in the mood for his bullshit as I headed toward the dark hallway. That’s fine Delhar. You do you, and  I will do what needs to be done.

Five hours later, I was standing in Darrian and I’s old room. Every memory that cropped up was ruined by the thought of her controlling him. Aarron had started this long ago. She had loved Darrian, and he had loved me. Or had he? Aarron had tried to show me that she was just as good, if not better, than me to everyone.

My mind kept turning the same pointless things over and over. Would Darrian have loved me differently if she wouldn’t have poisoned his mind? Would this have happened if I wouldn’t have pushed him away? If I would have tried harder then maybe he would have never turned to her and turned against me.

Pulling the bright yellow bedspread off the bed roughly, I sighed softly. We had picked that out together. We had been trying to repair our relationship. I still hadn’t been remembering what all he was doing as my master and I had so much hope that I could fix me and us. I was stupid, just like all the other times.

Tossing the spread on the floor I turned to look around the room nervously. Darrian had kept all of our pictures. I shouldn’t keep torturing myself with these questions, yet they kept popping up.

Sara, talk to me. If we are going to stay married, if we are going to continue loving one another, talk to me.

I had locked myself in the bathroom. The memories that I thought were only nightmares and pain had started taking a toll on me mentally. I was curled up on the floor, sobbing and angry at everything and everyone. I could still hear him outside the door, his face next to it as he whispered softly. Please Sara, let me help you. I can’t help if you don’t talk to me.

I had scurried away from the door, trying to clear my mind of the dreams I still didn’t understand. My heart broke as he whispered softly. I love you. Do you understand that, Sara? I wanted you as mine from the moment we locked eyes. Don’t do this to me. Don’t make me do this.

I should have known something was wrong. That he was being controlled like he was controlling me right then, but I didn’t. I stupidly thought he meant he didn’t want me to make him hate me. If I would have just pretended that I loved him and ignored all the memories cropping up, would things have been different? I didn’t think so. I would probably be the one doing the killing now.

Pulling myself from the memory quickly I glanced around the room through narrowed eyes until I found a spot under the desk. Raising an eyebrow I quickly rushed my way over to it snatching a hold of the desk and tossed it aside. Running my fingers over the boards underneath it.

What are you doing?

Demarcouse’s curious voice reached my ears softly causing me to jerk my head up. A small smile crossed my lips as I finally braved locking eyes with him. "Why would he refuse to move this damn desk from this spot?

Just listen to me for a single second. When Darrian and I were together, he would never let me move this stupid desk. I hated the damn thing and was always stubbing my toe on it.

Hell I even remember arguing about it frequently, but no, Darrian wouldn’t budge.Then we started fighting. Darrian used it as a place to hold me down and,"

Suddenly my mind went flying to when Fiona was conceived causing me to hesitate. Clamping my mouth shut my eyes slammed shut for a second.

A small dark laugh fell from Demarcouse’s lips easily. You just want to tear shit up, don’t you?

Sneering I turned away from him just as the board came up the rest of the way.Inside was a wooden box that was locked. See, I told you so. With that, I was pulling the box out, shrugging. I guess I am smarter than I look, huh?

Reaching down Demarcouse offered