The Mark of the Blood

The Mark of the Blood

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The Mark of the Blood By

Cynnara Tregarth

©2003 ADVANCED READER COPY: DISCLAIMER This Advance Reader Copy is the property of Cynnara Tregarth. The Advance Reader Copy may not be sold, rented, loaned, or copied. This is an uncorrected copy and may differ slightly from the final published novel, which will be available from Triskelion Publishing in July 2004. This work is copyrighted as of June 2004 by Cynnara Tregarth.

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Dedications To my kids, Tris, Drew, and Zack- I love you so much. Each book is my wish of imagination and accomplishing your dreams for each of you. Never forget to reach for them you will achieve them. I know you’ll always accomplish everything you dream of doing. Shar and Lisa, my heart sisters—I can’t thank you enough for your support, love, and everlasting understanding. I love you both and owe you so much that only the universe can begin to understand. My sisters, Jaime and Tracey—you’ve been there when I hadn’t wanted you in my life and you’ve been there when I thought all was lost. Thank you. Just remember, like Chaucer in A Knight’s Tale I can immortalize you both. Just beware it’s not after you’ve pulled a joke on me. Hehehehe My brother-in-law, Wendell— when you told me that you read my first book I was amazed and proud. You are truly a man not afraid of trying new things and someone I enjoy talking to about science and history. ☺ Now, how about we talk about your job…I have this idea…. Pete—Surprise, you’re mentioned here. I know you’re wondering why. You and I have talked about the pre-Roman times and post-Roman times, helping me to formulate and research information, not only for this book, but also for the entire series. I am honored by your help and graciousness. These Druids, though not completely historically accurate, are a lot more accurate as well as fascinating because of you. Diolch yn fawr, Pete. H and L—You know who you are. I’d be remiss if I didn’t thank you in this and every book. With your help and “gentle” coaxing, you’ve helped me reach my dream. Now if I can only convince you to get your ideas on paper, we could do an anthology together. Bwahahaha Diana Peterfreund—what do I say to the woman who made me a better writer and then up and left me to go halfway around the world for a trip of a lifetime? Thank you, my friend. Now get your arse home. I’m in need of your unique skills and can’t wait to hear about your adventures. Anthony, Gerd, Warwick, Stephen, and John—You are nuts make me look good. ☺ However, all joking aside, thank you. Thank you for your support, your eternal graciousness, your help, and for giving me not just the male perspective, but also your friendship. I’ve learned this past year just how much that means to me. I am humbled by it and give you my thanks and my friendship in return. Colette- See, you’re closer to your vampire book, I promise. Though you make your appearance here in this book, you’ve been in my life a long time. To further fun and adventures my dear friend and sister. To the real Kirstie---

I hope you love the story and enjoy the romance between Niam and Kirstie. May

your dreams and wishes come true. Who knows, I might even get a chance to see you sometime soon. Huggbies and pashes, friend.

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Prologue The lone Druid wrapped in black robes approached the sacred ground. Though cursed by the gods, he was determined to win some kind of concession from the goddess who cursed him and his brethren. Miach tossed the head of his enemy at the feet of The Morrigan. Her lavender eyes flashed in anger. “How dare you dishonour this sacred space?” “Here’s the reason for my brothers and I being cursed, The Morrigan.” The tall dark haired man stood unmoving as the goddess approached him. “These men slaughtered the nearby village of Caer Awyddion. This one,” he nodded at the head, “was the one who told us that you’d changed your mind in how to carry out your order.” The woman’s eyes looked at the head before her. She recognized the man as the one she had sent to inform the Maraigh brothers of her change in plans that fateful day. Waving her hand over the head, a mark showed up on the back of the man’s neck, visible only to those of the Pantheonic Realm. It was a lightning bolt encircled. Taranis! How dare you? I shall get even with you. You and I know what these men were to me. You made me curse them to an eternal life of unhappiness. “I see perhaps I was too hasty in cursing you and your brethren. However, I cannot remove it. Miach. However, I can give you a way out though,” The Morrigan said as she unconsciously smoothed back a black tress. “Though your family is cursed to walk the earth forever as preternatural creatures, I shall grant you freedom through your anamcharas. soulmates. If the woman you love bears my mark, then you’re free. However, she must love you for what you are now and you must respect her powers as equal to your own.” “Done. We never meant to disobey your commands. All of us were deceived.” The Morrigan removed something around her neck. Tossing it to the ground before Miach, she nodded to it. “This is how you’ll know. If the woman’s mark matches the marking on my torc, she’s possibly an anamchara to one of you. It will only glow if the person placing it on her is also her soulmate. Now leave this place, unclean one. Go and hunt the world’s evil.” Miach bowed his head as he retrieved the silver necklace. “Thank you, Morrigu. We will look for the women. Perhaps this way we can be what you wanted of us in the beginning.” “One can hope. I shall deal with the others who bear the mark of the storm and war god,” The Morrigan announced, her voice colder than ice. Miach’s blue eyes flashed in controlled anger. As he turned on his heel, he said, “If we catch the

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god in avatar form off of sacred ground, we will use our combined knowledge to destroy him. Be warned. Not even Arawn can prevent us from taking our revenge.” An agonal scream rented the air as the souls of past, present, and future warriors protested against something beyond comprehension to the spirit realm. The Morrigan sunk to her knees as she let out another cry. “No, I cannot believe he’d do this! How dare he cause war upon my servants?” Miach gathered up the goddess in his arms. Though he knew the punishment of holding her was death to those cursed, he couldn’t help following his training as a Druid and that as a man. “What’s wrong, my goddess?” “Gone, they’re all gone. The women of Caer Arian are gone. Those who were dedicated and marked by me are dead.” Miach’s heart clenched. So, it was over after all. There was no way that he or his brothers would ever be free. Once again, they were bound to the night with no salvation. No woman would ever be found with the mark of The Morrigan. They would roam the earth as Marauders, always preying on those who’d destroy the lives they protected. There would be no release. None.

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Chapter One Present Day

Niam gazed at the setting sun, his powers growing as the night called. His head rang with the voices around him. Feeding would become a priority, but for now, he could handle the hunger. He always did. His cell phone rang in his pocket. He flipped it open and spoke, “Niam here.” “So bold, so daring, mo dheartháir. So why haven’t you bagged a cailín?” “Toss off, Miach,” Niam uttered into the phone as his eyes watched a beautiful mark walk by him. “Sorry, that’s your field of expertise not mine. Have you heard from your twin? No one’s heard from him in two days,” the oldest brother, Miach, said with concern. Niam sat up straighter on the bench in the park. “Owain hasn’t checked in? Where was he last?” “After some kind of trail of a blood sucking vampire in Egypt, I do believe.” Niam snorted. “You’re sure it wasn’t a woman who was denying him pleasure? Give him twentyfour hours. If he doesn’t call any of us, I’ll go find him.” He and Miach bickered, finally settling on this time tomorrow for the time limit. Niam closed his phone and put it back in his jean pocket. Time to hunt. Had anyone watched him, they’d have noted his feline grace, his economy of movement. There was something inherently dangerous about Niam Maraigh. His long legs encased in denim carried him towards the lovely brunette he spotted earlier. He knew without a doubt that she was waiting for him. Why would he doubt when, with a look, he commanded her to wait under the oak tree in Bantam Park? “Come, my lovely. It’s feeding time,” he whispered as he crooked a finger towards her. Part of him felt guilt for what was about to happen, but he knew without sustenance he couldn’t hunt. He wouldn’t have the strength to take care of Taranis’ minions, particularly tonight’s prey. The brunette sauntered over to him. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling his head down towards hers. “Kiss me, I’ve missed you,” she whispered. He could tell that she was under the psychic compulsion that his kind could induce. As his lips touched hers, he began to feed. She would have no memory of the moment, yet would feel weak and sick for a day or so as Niam consumed part of her life force. Vampire he was, but not like the bloodsuckers that fiction proclaimed. Without the life force energy, he would wither and die. Or so the curse of the goddess proclaimed.

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Energy filled his body as he deepened the kiss between them. This woman was filled with energy, both mental and physical. He would only take what he needed and none more. He was sworn to protect mortals, not harm them. Not even when he wanted to indulge in the feel of power and life pulsating within him did he ever forget that charge. Slowly he removed his lips from hers. He smiled and brushed her cheek with his large callused hand. “Go, milady. Thank you for what you’ve given me. Faílte.” The brunette smiled at him and turned from him. “I’ll see you later. I’ve got to get back to work.” Niam watched the woman head back to the nearby office building. Glancing at his watch, he noticed it was almost time to go to work. Well, his real work. He still considered himself a Druid, even though for over fifteen hundred years, he lived his life as a vampire. Though by day he was known as psychotherapist for trauma victims, by night he was a Marauder, guardian of mankind, keeper of the Druidic ways. *

*

*

Kirstie Blake groaned as she finished one last repetition on the leg press machine. She hated working out. She despised torturing her body, but if she didn’t her generous curves would become convex and not hourglass. Sweat beaded on her forehead as she finished, lowering the weights slowly to the ground. “I hate this. Working out sucks the big one,” she muttered to no one in particular. Her friends had all left earlier, it being the start of the weekend. Though they’d all invited her to spend time with them, she turned them all down. It was hard enough being single much less a Pagan amongst her friends, especially with Beltane coming up. Pagan, right. As if that alone made you different. No, be honest with yourself, Kirs. You’re a Druid, not just Pagan. You’ve just finished your dedication ritual to The Morrigan and asked to receive her blessings during this time. Here’s hoping that The Morrigan accepts me as one of her own. She toweled herself off as she made her way to the changing rooms. A hot shower and some food would cure this strange restlessness she’d been feeling since her dedication. Plagued by dreams that she could barely recall, Kirstie hoped that tonight wouldn’t follow the same pattern. That dark shadow that swooped down always seemed to frighten her but also turned her to mush with just a hint of his amber eyes. After she finished dressing, Kirstie made her way out towards her car. Her life was one she hadn’t thought on much. She worked as a business consultant for financial institutions, helping them to streamline. It was a stressful job at times, but overall it gave her freedom to work when she wanted. Right

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now she was on a three-week vacation and already she was antsy to go back to work. You’re such a glutton for punishment. You’re supposed to be relaxing. Sheesh, I need to get laid or something. Night was slowly taking over as the stars began shimmering in the darkening sky. Kirstie looked up and thanked the night for its blessings. The parking lot seemed almost desolate though there were quite a few cars left. Carefully she made her way to her reward for her finishing her last contract, a Mazda Miata. She unlocked the door and tossed in her backpack. She looked around the parking lot and saw no one. The noise, a whispering voice, seemed to become louder in her ears. Unlocking her car door with a click of the remote on her key ring, Kirstie put her hand on the door handle when a large hand clamped down on her shoulder. Kirstie balled up her fist, hitting her attacker in the stomach as she turned. The man grunted as he twisted her arm behind her. “Don’t fight me and you might enjoy the experience,” he grunted. He shoved her against the car, knocking the air out of her. His hands were all over her then trying to rip off her clothes. She tried to fight him off and catch her breath. Her scream rent the air. In retaliation, her assailant punched her in the jaw to shut her up. Slumping to the ground, Kirstie blinked, as a shadow seemed to leap off the roof of the gym and head her way. What the hell? The shadow seemed to move with quickness that was almost inhuman. As it reached her, it seemed to define itself as a man dressed in blacks and greys. Feral eyes seem to glow as her savior lifted the attempted rapist off of his feet, throwing him against the utility pole. With lightning quick reflexes, the man followed with two quick jabs which rendered the man unconscious. Whipping out a pair of handcuffs, the shadowy man restrained the attacker. Kirstie inhaled a shaky breath as she got up off the ground. As her rescuer approached, she took in his lean yet strong body, his dark hair curling slightly at the base of his neck, full lips, strong chin and nose, and those mesmerizing dark amber eyes that seemed to hold some kind of power. She let out a gasp as her dream crashed around her. Could it be? No, don’t be making mountains out of molehills, Kirs. You’re just trying to find a connection for that repetitive dream. Thank the man for helping you. “Thank you. I try taking every precaution against things like this,” Kirstie said as she held out her hand. Niam Maraigh looked at the woman before him as he shook her hand. Though she had some abrasions, she didn’t seem to be truly hurt. Her loose ponytail had come undone when she’d been attacked allowing her chestnut hair to brush her shoulders. He smiled at seeing the intelligence behind the piercing

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blue gaze. This was no one’s victim. As their gazes locked, something primal seemed to grasp them both. Before either realized it, Niam held Kirstie against his chest, showing him exactly how tiny she was compared to his six-foot frame. Soft sobs escaped from Kirstie as she struggled with her adrenaline dissipating from her system. Niam spoke softly to her, his Gaelic accent comforting her as his talent of empathically easing pain helped her to regain control. Something felt right about her being in his embrace. A shudder ran through his body as foreign feelings surged through his body. When she regained her composure, Kirstie stepped back. “I don’t know what came over me. I guess-“ Niam smiled at her as he kissed her hand that he held onto. “It’s okay, I do understand. You go on home. I’ll call the police and have them take care of this guy.” Kirstie shook her head. “I can’t do that. They’ll need my statement.” Niam squeezed her hand and lowered his voice, allowing a bit of his vampiric ability to help convince her. “It’s okay. I’ll give them your name and address. I’ve done some work for them before and that way, you can be in a safe place when you give your statement.” Something in her felt compelled to obey this mystery man, but her sense of duty was great. But he was right, she would feel better if she weren’t here when the questioning began. Though she wasn’t afraid of answering the questions, Kirstie started to feel the aftereffects as the adrenaline left her system. The panic part of her mind was screaming it was time to go before that guy decided to try again. “Are you sure it’ll be okay?” Niam nodded as he took out a tiny notebook and pen. “I’m positive. The guys who are in charge of things like this would prefer you to feel safe as you give your statement. What’s your name?” “Kirstie Blake. I live at 502 W. Central Plaza, apartment 203. I’m in the phone book if they need to call me.” Looking at the utility pole, she shuddered as the attacker groaned and twitched. Kirstie took an unconscious step back. Niam stepped closer, blocking her view. She looked up at her shadowy rescuer. “What’s your name? You know mine. Let me guess, it’s probably not Batman.” A deep chuckle erupted from Niam. “No, I’m not the Caped Crusader. My name’s Niam.” Kirstie rolled the name around in her head as she tried to reproduce the Gaelic name without slaughtering it. “Niam, as if I was saying knee am, right?” “Yes and your pronunciation isn’t too bad.” Kirstie smiled shyly. “Thanks, I guess my friend’s lessons weren’t completely lost.” Seeing the quizzical expression on Niam’s face, she explained. “One of my friends is a trained linguist and speaks

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five languages. She recently came home from Ireland and went on about Gaelic and the wonderful accents to be found there.” Niam’s heart twisted at the mention of Eire. It’d been a while since he’d been home, not since the Samhain celebration with his brothers. That holiday gathering had been more than just a family gathering. Though he now made his home in Silver Springs, Florida, there were times when he wished he could live in the country of his birth. Yet because of what had happened on First Night, there was no way he could make it his home, not for a long while. “Yes, the dialects are quite varied among those who speak Gaelic. My brothers and I have different accents as each of us spent time with other relatives in different parts of Ireland, Scotland, Wales and Bretagne.” He withdrew his cell phone to call his friend on the police force. Before he dialed, Niam placed his hand on Kirstie’s shoulder. “You should go now. Take care of yourself, Kirstie Blake.” She nodded. “Thank you for helping me, Niam. I don’t know what I’ve had done without your assistance.” Her voice cracked slightly on that last part. Niam stepped closer causing Kirstie to look up into his eyes. Slowly, he lowered his lips to hers. It was like a liquid warm rain from the skies during the feast of Brighid. Her lips were soft, warm, with a slight tangy taste. Her mouth parted under his, allowing his tongue entrance into the warm, moist cavern. Their tongues slid against each other with a hint of promise, desire, comfort. A tingling sensation deep within his belly warned him that he was treading on thin ground with this lovely woman. She felt pliant and he knew he could erase this unpleasant experience from her by deepening the kiss and using his mental persuasion, but there was something else about her. The tingling changed into a slight ache of hunger, reminding of his true nature. As he reluctantly pulled back, Niam murmured, “I think you’d have been fine, Kirstie. You were holding your own until he managed to get you to the ground. Don’t beat yourself up over this. You were brave and composed.” Kirstie hugged Niam. “Thank you. I should be home in ten minutes or so. Tell the police if they want me, I’ll be home all weekend.” Niam watched the young woman climb into her car and drive off. Turning his attention to the rapist, his eyes glared with a feral intensity. Dialing the private number to his friend, he quickly related the events of the evening. When he was done, he shut his phone as he approached the now awake man. “You’re not going to get off easily. The garda won’t be here for at least twenty minutes. Think we’ll have enough time to make you regret your crimes against the women you’ve attacked?” The man screamed as Niam gave him a brief look at his cursed nature given to him by The

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Morrigan before closing the distance to show him a taste of the horror he dispensed on his victims in the past. *

*

*

When Detective Micheal Padraig O’Connor arrived at the parking lot, he had sworn fluently in English and Irish Gaelic. Knowing Niam and his brothers cost him many a sleepless night when they convened in Silver Springs. Granted he was one of the few people who knew the truth about the dheartháir or brothers Maraigh. Maraigh meant kill in Irish Gaelic and it wasn’t far from the truth in some of their actions. With a long resigned sigh, Micheal parked his car and opened the door. Using what his great grandmother would call “the sight” he noticed where Niam’s energy resonated. “Niam? I’m here,” he called out as he approached the cloak of darkness. Niam heard the Irish lilt and grinned. Micheal Padraig was not pleased. Then again, he couldn’t recall a time when Micheal was ever thrilled when he received a call from one of the brothers. People speak about the Scottish clans having true loyalty, but even that loyalty was based on an even more ancient culture, that of the Celts. Micheal Padraig might take a ribbing from his friends for being Irish American and that culture, but few realized that he was truly Celt, follower of the ancient ways. It was that loyalty and ability that had brought Micheal to the attention of the Marauders as much as it was his family’s bond to the Maraighs. They were good at creating and maintaining contacts, but they needed someone among mortal mankind in order to help facilitate certain changes of the guard when it was time to recreate themselves or get out of peccadilloes they might find themselves in. They were friends among those who followed the old ways, trusted friends, helpers, and more. Among the Marauders, Micheal Padraig and his family were called the cúntóir. “Anseo, Micheal Padraig,” Niam responded as he lowered the darkness. With one last glance, he acknowledged that the rapist would never again inflict the horror he had on women. Amazing how psychotherapy and a bit of hypnotic persuasion could affect that kind of change. Micheal looked at the cowering man and shook his head. “How badly did you break this one? It’s hard to convince a jury they’re dangerous when you remake their mind by playing on their fears like that, múinteoir.” “This will wear off until the first time he tries to attack another person. Then the conditioning will kick in,” Niam responded with a hint of arrogance. “I’ve been refining my technique. I wouldn’t have bothered you if I could’ve avoided it.” “Yeah, right. We both know that when you’re avenging your patients that you don’t really give a

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damn if I’m off duty or not. He’s the one who raped Vivian Terrence?” The Marauder grunted his assent as images of what the man had done to Vivian flooded his mind. Then the image of Kirstie Blake replaced those. “Yes. I caught him in the act with your almost victim, Kirstie Blake.” Micheal’s dark brow lifted at Niam’s tone. “Oh? What was different about this Miss Blake?” Niam shook his head. “I’m not sure, Micheal. She was fighting him off pretty well until he slammed her into the car. I believe she’s the type to do her civic duty and testify.” Micheal read the man his civil rights as he exchanged Niam’s specially made handcuffs for the regulation ones he carried. Once he was done, he looked out into the night. “He’s not the one, is he?” Niam didn’t ask for an explanation, he knew precisely what Micheal was referring too. “No, he’s not. He didn’t have the sign of Taranis nor did he use any kind of gifts against either Vivian or Kirstie. Needless tosay, I’m happy he’s going to be out of commission.” “Me too.” A wailing told him that the unit Micheal had called when he pulled into the parking lot was almost there. “Time for you to disappear, my friend. How can I contact Miss Blake?” Niam wordlessly handed him Kirstie’s address. What he hadn’t told his police friend was that he had made a copy for himself. If he had, Micheal would’ve chided him for being too close to another victim. Niam relied on Micheal’s acerbic nature to help break the emotional overload that occasionally ruled him when he took in not just energy, but emotions of others. “Do you need to feed later?” Micheal asked as Niam began walking towards the shadowy areas close to the building. “I can be available within a couple of hours or so.” Niam shook his head. “Go home to your girlfriend. I should be fine. I’m not feeling tuirseach, tired, like normal.” Micheal grinned. “Good, I don’t mind being your occasional feed boy, but having a night to make love to Jeanne without the fear of a phone call is gratefully appreciated.” Hauling up the slightly intimidated rapist, he gave another sigh, spotting a couple of darkening bruises. “What triggered your temper?” Niam whispered on the wind his answer. “He touched her.”

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Chapter Two Kirstie sat behind her desk the next morning. She hadn’t slept like she normally did, but it wasn’t bad considering. The detective that had called her last night had been nice and amenable to meeting her this morning at her office. She had reassured him that she’d willingly testify to put the creep behind bars. A few choice comments had slipped during their phone conversation giving the police officer a chuckle or two. A sturdy knock at the door startled her out of her reverie. “Come in,” she said as she rose from her seat. Officer O’Connor entered the office with his hand outstretched. She took in his long lanky form, his dark hair and blue eyes. Dark Pict is what her mother would’ve called him. “Thank you for doing this, Miss Blake.” “It’s the least I can do. What can I tell you about this?” Micheal gestured her to sit back in her chair as he took the one closest to him. “Just start at the beginning, I’ll make notes as you talk and afterwards, I might ask some questions in order to narrow down anything that might turn up.” Fiddling with her favorite click pen, Kirstie began relating the events that had happened. Thirty minutes later, they shook hands again, this time saying their goodbyes. “Thank you for your cooperation, Miss Blake.” “Kirstie, please.” A thought popped into her mind. “I do have a question for you, though it’s only peripherally related to the case.” “Yes?” Kirstie bit her lower lip, not sure how to ask about her shadowy rescuer, Niam Maraigh. “It’s about my rescuer. He said he knew you and seemed quite sure you wouldn’t mind me going home. How can I thank him for helping me?” As Micheal rested his hand on the doorknob leading from the office, he hesitated, not knowing what Niam had told Kirstie about himself. Knowing him as he did, he sincerely doubted that the Druid had told his life story or what his current occupation was. “Your thanks at the scene were enough. I’ve known Niam for most of my life and I can tell you, he’s most honourable and humble. He’d not want you to do anything to show appreciation. Occasionally, he’s been at the right place at the right time.” “A regular Batman, I take it?” Kirstie said, a slight smile crossing her face as she remembered Niam’s chuckle at the reference.

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“Oh, hell no,” Micheal retorted. He blushed at his off the cuff response. “Niam doesn’t do the vigilante thing. He’s a victim advocate and never once hesitated in doing the right thing, even though it means risking himself.Plus, he respects the work the police do.” Kirstie nodded. “He seemed able to take care of himself and handle my attacker in a quick fashion. I’m glad he’s on the right side of the law.” Micheal agreed as he opened the door. “If you need anything, don’t hesitate to contact me at anytime, Kirstie. Even if it’s just to talk. I realize sometimes delayed shock occurs. I’ll let you know what happens as the case progresses.” Kirstie escorted the detective out the door before closing up shop and heading home. Now that the debriefing was over, she could forget about the attack and begin the cleansing ritual for Beltane. Perhaps it’d help get rid of the dream about the shadowy man who had took on Niam’s characteristics last night. Enough, Kirstie. Granted the man was gorgeous, but that doesn’t mean you need to fixate on him. If only her mind would cooperate.

*

*

*

Micheal got into his car, dialing a number he knew by heart. “It’s me. She’s fine. You were right, she’ll testify for us. So, what more do you want to know?” The voice on the other end spoke quickly. Micheal chortled at one comment, his brogue thickening as he enjoyed this conversation. “Look, Niam, I only agreed to call you because you were wanting an update. Me thinks she got to you. And that alone gives me immense pleasure.” A brief tirade had Micheal slumping over the steering wheel in laughter. Composing himself, he started the engine. “I’ve got to file the report, but she’s fine. Hopefully now that you know she’s fine, you’ll be able to move onto your next conquest. I’ll see you at the gym tonight?” Chuckling, Micheal shut down his phone. Oh yeah, nothing beat having a Marauder on the prowl and unable to do anything about it. This was definitely one for the books. He wondered if he should tell Niam’s youngest brother, Donal about this turn of events. He’d get a kick out of it. Quickly he picked up the phone. Share the wealth, mom would say. Might as well have some fun with this while I can.

*

*

*

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Niam looked at his phone and grunted. Hanging up the receiver, he tried to gather his senses together before his next patient arrived. Granted he didn’t have to work unless he wanted, Niam found that helping victims of abuse to regain confidence and self esteem one of his more rewarding things. His twin, Owain, teased him about reverting to Ovate training instead of using his Brehon status, but as his twin, no one else understood the need to help more. My twin, where are you? Your time is almost up and you’ve not called any of us. Taking a slim chance, Niam picked up his phone and swiftly dialed a number. When a sleepy voice answered, Niam smiled. “Wake up, Cadrus. Have you heard from Owain? You’re the last one I know he visited.” Cadrus was another of his brothers, also vampiric in nature. He was also the extreme sports nut. “Niam? You do realize it’s like early morning here in New Zealand, right?” “Miach’s giving me until this afternoon to hear from Owain. Then gods know what’ll happen.” Niam

heard

rustling

as

Cadrus

moved.

“Fuck.

What’s

gotten

into

Miach?”

”Owain’s failed to check in. You know how he gets when we don’t keep to the rules.” They both knew it was for the protection of all that they followed them. Considering they were a lone force of nine brothers, if one failed to check in, the others would come to his aid. “Yeah, but we all know that Owain gets caught up in his research and often can’t be bothered to eat, much less call. What’s different this time?” Niam thought on that for a moment. Since Samhain, things had changed for him and his twin. There was restlessness, a need for something more. They spoke about between themselves but not to any of the others. Perhaps Miach picked up on that sensation. Damn Macha for her “generosity.” “I think something’s spooked Miach. He and Finn are the only two who’ll risk going to the gods and the Otherworld to get help and advice. Trust me, Finn’s been acting a bit unusual as well.” Cadrus made a slight noise and then sighed. “Okay, if Finn’s having issues, then it’s not just Miach being a pain in the ass oldest brother. I’ll call the others and see if Owain’s said anything to anyone else.” “Thanks, Cay. I’ll be in the office most of the day, then out and about tonight.” Niam hung up the phone, knowing that now that Cadrus was on the scent, he’d get some answers. The most exuberant among them, Cadrus had contacts in places that Niam and the others had learned to trust in. They never asked on how Cadrus met them, just that they were reliable in the extreme. A soft knock at the door caught his attention. “Come in.” Niam’s secretary peeked in. “Your next patient is here, Niam.” “Send her in. Kelly, if any of my brothers call, put them through.” Kelly nodded. “Sure. Had I known that, I’d have put Owain through when he called early this

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morning while you were in session.” Niam looked at his secretary in shock. Cause and effect was a great part of magick. He had hoped someone had heard from his twin to end Miach’s worry and prevent a mass search party. Trust Owain to call a mortal who wasn’t quite in on the true nature of the brothers in order to buy himself some time. What the hell is my brother up to? “Did he say where he was and what was going on?” Kelly looked at her boss and gave him a lopsided grin. ”I’m to tell you, and I quote, ‘Tell my psychotic twin, I’m fine and stop doing that ESPN thing before I deck him. I’m in Egypt doing some research and will only be able to call once a week.’ Unquote.” In a blink of an eye, Niam had Kelly in his arms and kissed his secretary on the cheek. “You’re a godsend, Kelly. Remind me you need a raise after this next session.” Looking dazed, Kelly nodded. “You already gave me one, but I take it this is something good?” Niam grinned. “More than you know. Can you call Miach and tell him what you told me? I guess he went to visit Owain and he was no where to be found.” Nodding sagely, Kelly responded, “You bet, boss. I’ll bring in your next client and I’ll call Miach. Anything else?” Niam checked his watch. “Lunch. I’m starved.” Within minutes, Niam was awash in the emotions and fears of his newest patient. Yet even in the swell of conflicting emotions, a part of his thoughts drifted towards Kirstie. She wouldn’t stop tempting him, and part of him enjoyed it.

*

*

*

A week later

Micheal O’Connor knocked at the door of Kirstie Blake. He hated being the bearer of bad news, but there was no way around it. Seeing the small brunette, Micheal let out a small sigh of frustration. “Miss Blake? I’m not sure if you remember me-“ “Detective O’Connor, of course I do. Come in,” she said as she opened the door to him. “Why are you here?” As he entered her apartment, he felt at home among the various Celtic pictures as well as the soft music of Clannad playing in the background. “Nice home, Miss- “He saw her look and stopped. “Kirstie,

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I’m here because something happened and I need you to come to the hospital with me.” Kirstie halted her steps and turned towards the police officer. “What are you talking about? Why do I need to go to the hospital?” Micheal took one of Kirstie’s hands. “One of your friends, Miss Trista Caffrey was attacked tonight. She was badly hurt and is currently at Tampa General. When I asked her who to call on her behalf, she gave me your name and number.” “Oh gods,” Kirstie cried, pulling her hand back. She looked frantically around the room as she tried to find her things. “Trista. Oh gods. Who attacked her? How bad?” Micheal waited until Kirstie had gathered her thin jacket, keys, and wallet. As he ushered her out of her home, he locked the door and shut it. Wordlessly, she handed him her keys and he locked the deadbolt. “We don’t know who attacked her. As for how badly, I can’t say. The doctors were taking care of her when I came to get you.” On their way to the hospital, Kirstie asked Micheal questions regarding what she could do to help her friend. Finally there was something he could do to help both women. “Trista will need counseling, Kirstie. This was a very traumatic incident. There’s a psychotherapist who works specifically with trauma patients who might be able to help her. His name is Dr. Maraigh.” Kirstie took the proffered card and slipped it into her wallet. “I’ll make the appointment and take her to it. I’m on vacation for a while, so it won’t be a hardship for me. Thank you for being the one to tell me about this, Micheal. Had any other officer had shown up-“ “I’m sorry it happened, Kirstie. But hopefully with what Trista can tell us, we can catch the perpetrator.” The rest of the drive was in silence. Once at Tampa General Hospital, Micheal escorted Kirstie to the emergency room and introduced her to the doctor in charge of Trista’s case. As he took notes, his mind filled with horror at the brutality of the crime. Never before had such a violent attack been committed in Silver Springs. Kirstie cried as she heard about the injuries. Finally the doctor escorted the woman to see her friend. Kirstie looked at Micheal and he nodded. She went off and Micheal reached for his phone. Somehow, he knew he needed to talk to his mentor. He feared this case could be beyond his scope as a law officer. “Niam, if you get this message, call me back. It’s an emergency.” Micheal closed his phone and went to one of his partners to see what was discovered at the crime scene.

*

*

*

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Three days later

“Kirstie, I can’t do this,” Trista said as her friend parked the car in front of a small office building near downtown Silver Springs. “Yes you can, Trista. I promise to be there in the waiting room the whole time. If you need me during the session, the doctor can get me and I’ll sit with you.” Kirstie’s voice was firm with determination. The past three days had been a horror for them both as Trista had begged to leave the hospital after treatment and stayed with Kirstie. Neither of them slept much as Trista was plagued by nightmares and fears that her attacker was coming back to kill her. The second day, Kirstie remembered Detective O’Connor’s recommendation and made an emergency appointment for her friend. “I’m scared, Kirs. What if…” Trista’s voice trailed off as they entered the office. “I’m told that Dr. Maraigh is one of the best in the country, Tris. You need help that I can’t give. I wish I could, but I just can’t.” Frustration filled her voice at being unable to help her friend. A dark haired woman nodded to them as they approached her desk. “Hello, I’m Kelly Robard. May I help you?” “My name is Kirstie Blake, I made an appointment for my friend, Trista Caffrey. You asked us to come in for this time.” Kirstie answered, unconsciously tracing patterns on her skirt. She smiled softly at her friend and squeezed her hand in reassurance. “Oh yes, have a seat, Miss Blake. We have all of the necessary information so there won’t be any forms to fill out. Miss Caffrey, if you’d follow me, I’ll take you to meet the doctor.” Niam opened the door to the lobby area. “Kelly, do you know when my next…Oh, excuse me, I guess I have my answer.” His amber eyes met Kirstie’s and flashed awareness then covered over. Kelly looked from her boss to the young lady and back again in mild curiosity. “Trista Caffrey is your next patient. I was just getting ready to bring her back.” Niam smiled softly at the frightened woman. Though part of her face still had bruises, she was healing quite well. Using his abilities, he could see the workings of some light healing magick. His brow lifted slightly as his gaze shifted in question at Kirstie then back again. “I’m pleased to meet you, Trista. Why don’t you come with me?” “Can Kirstie come, too?” Trista’s voice trembled with fear. Niam took Trista’s hand and lowered his voice one octave, calling upon the skills of the Ovate

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healers. “If you’d like her to that’s fine, but normally, I have the friend wait out here until they’re really needed. That way your privacy is maintained as much as possible.” Trista’s eyes seemed to widen and a slight tension dissipated from her shoulders. “You’re right. I’m just a big fraidy cat since this happened.” “That’s understandable, Trista. Call me Niam. I don’t keep a lot of formality with my clients as it can impede the healing process. If during the session you still want Kirstie, my secretary will bring her in.” Niam escorted Trista back while his eyes bored into Kirstie’s. Her eyes held his gaze and she wondered why Detective O’Connor hadn’t told her about this. However, even though she wondered at the lack of honesty on his part, Kirstie knew that Niam would help her friend. That’s all that mattered while Kirstie got to the bottom of who attacked Trista. Smiling at Kelly, she got out her cellular phone and made a couple quick phone calls. Kirstie knew she’d need some information that the police might not be willing to give, but a couple of her friends would tell her, if only to ease her mind. Though she normally would never do anything like she was considering, Kirstie couldn’t handle that one of the strongest women she knew was now a basket case and deathly afraid that the man might come back and kill her. She had to do something to stop this horror for Trista. The sooner, the better in her estimation. While Trista was in session, Kirstie finished her phone calls and made notes in her computerized notebook. Later when Trista napped, she’d try to make some sense out of the information she received. Looking at her watch, Kirstie realized that the session was about half over. A movement grabbed her attention. “Miss Blake, you’re needed in the back,” Kelly said, opening the door to the back office area. Kirstie followed the secretary, wondering what had happened to her friend. The fact that she did this well would’ve been a good sign. Kelly stopped before a golden brown door and knocked lightly. They heard a murmured response, so Kelly opened the door. The sight was one Kirstie would never forget. Trista was swinging at Niam, trying to hurt him while he stood there, protecting only his face. Kirstie brushed past Kelly and grabbed Trista’s arm. “Tris! What are you doing?” Niam interrupted. “It’s okay, Kirstie. She’s in a trance and she’s showing what she wished she could’ve done that night. However, when she awakes, Trista’s going to be quite emotional.” Kirstie’s voice shook. “More than she is now? You don’t understand Trista never gets emotional. As in she’s the most controlled person I know.” Niam carefully dodged a blow towards his face and finally tapped Trista on the shoulder three

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times, causing her to step back and breathe heavily. His eyes watched for any untoward reaction, then shifted his gaze to the woman next to him. Her scent lingered in his nostrils making his body clench with contained desire. “Well, this will be more cleansing than emotional fear. Your friend was tortured, Kirstie, both emotionally and physically.” Kirstie nodded, her mind running rampant with the information Niam shared with her. It fit the other material she was given. “You know she’s not the only one who was attacked in this manner,” she whispered as she brushed back a stray lock of Trista’s hair. “Yes, I know. I’ve been treating all of the women by this serial rapist. He’s getting worse and he’s using methods that aren’t quite in the repertoire of a regular rapist.” “Magick, you mean. Yeah, I know.” Niam shot Kirstie a startled look. “How did you know?” Kirstie looked down. She hadn’t meant to say that, but now it was too late to take it back. Niam probably would dismiss her just like some of the others who were her friends did. “I’m a pagan, Niam. I also use magick. I can sense and feel it when it’s used. The night I brought Trista home, she reeked of it. It wasn’t clean magick either.” “That explains why you did healing spells. You were negating some of the magick he’d done to her.” Kirstie gasped as she lifted her eyes towards him. “How did-“ Niam gave her a dazzling grin. “You’re not the only pagan, Kirstie Blake. My family has many healers. Some think I just dabble at healing, but I don’t. Your friend is the worse scarred by the experience than the others. I’m going to bring her out of her trance now. I need you to sit next to her and just be her friend.” Suddenly, he tugged on her hand until they were facing each other, their bodies humming with the energy between them. Amber eyes locked with blue ones. His hand slid up her arm towards her chin. Her mouth parted slightly in anticipation. Their lips touched and the tingling of magick kindled within them both. Gently Niam increased the pressure of his lips as he slid his tongue across her teeth, enjoying her soft moan. His free hand caressed her back. It was just like the last time. She opened and responded to him willingly, without mental prodding. Her lips molded to his and he felt his cock swell in response to her nearness. The softness of her breast called to him as he gently held its weight in the palm of his hand. He hadn’t been with a woman in a while, but even then, he was always in control of his lust. With her, he wanted to take her, regardless of her friend being there. Her friend. Niam ended the kiss on a fervent note. Kirstie’s soft whimper brought a small grin of

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complete male satisfaction to his lips. “We need to get Trista out of the trance. Afterwards, we can discuss anything else.” “This was a momentary lapse. There’s nothing to talk about, Dr. Maraigh.” Kirstie went beside her friend and waited for him to bring her friend out of the hypnotic trance. Kirstie sat down as Niam guided her friend to sit next to her. Holding Trista’s hand, Niam guided her out of the trance. Opening her eyes, Trista burst into tears. Kirstie choked back a sob and wrapped her arms around her friend. “Shh, it’s okay, Tris. It’s okay. He’ll never hurt you again, I promise.” Trista cried against her friend while Kirstie and Niam exchanged looks. Kirstie mouthed, “I will find this guy and make him pay.” Niam shook his head. “No. This is a police matter.” Kirstie rolled her eyes. “Yeah, and you, right?” Niam said nothing. She didn’t know that he’d been on the trail of this guy for a while now and had no intention of telling her. She was a stubborn cailín and he knew that if she thought he was on the case, she’d not hesitate following along, something he couldn’t let her do. Kirstie looked away first, continuing her comfort of her friend. “I promise, Tris, this guy will be found and made to pay.” Trista hiccupped and wiped away the tears. “Are you sure? From what I overheard, I’m not the first of his victims. They say he’s getting worse.” Kirstie nodded. “Yes, I know. However, and I mean this, he will be found and dealt with. Mé mionnaigh, I promise. If need be, I’ll hunt him myself.” Niam gripped Kirstie’s shoulder while her scent wafted at his nostrils reminding him that he hadn’t fed today in order to ease the pain of his clients. Taking away their excess and painful emotions required him not to feed prior. Though their emotions could feed him, it wasn’t the same as the life force he normally consumed. Her sensual fragrance reminded him forcefully that he needed to feed and soon. His hand was warm upon her shoulder. When he squeezed it in warning, she knew that he understood her intent. Though it amazed her that he’d understand enough that her promises were vows, Kirstie was more impressed over the fact he wouldn’t engage her in an argument with Trista present. Trista gathered herself together and leaned away from Kirstie. “Thank you both. I know you’re both trying your best to help me. I just feel completely vandalized over this. There was so much he did and I can only remember parts of it. It was enough to frighten me.” Niam knelt at Trista’s side and placed a hand over hers. “Listen, in time, you’ll remember everything and be able to come to grips with what happened. You’ve taken the first steps. Just remember that you’re not to blame for this. The guy who did this had a purpose and he used you to accomplish it. If

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you blame yourself, you’re letting him win.” Trista smiled wanly at Niam. “Thank you, Niam. Can I come back for more sessions?” “Of course, I’d take offense if you didn’t. Kelly will make you an appointment for next Monday. If you need me between now and then, you’ll be given a card with my emergency number.” Both Trista and Kirstie thanked Niam for his time and his help as they walked out of the office. He watched them both leave to speak with his secretary. Deep inside he knew that Kirstie wasn’t going to let it be and in doing so, she might in fact be in the way.

*

*

*

Niam stood outside the house, hoping that Micheal Padraig was home. Drained from how the rest of his day went and that he didn’t trust Kirstie to leave well enough alone, Niam had to speak to his friend. Pressing the doorbell twice in his usual manner, he waited. The night air seemed cooler than normal as the crickets chirped their evening song. The door opened slowly, Micheal shaking his head at Niam. “Why am I not surprised to see you here? Kelly told me that Kirstie and her friend saw you today.” Seeing his friend’s solemn face, he opened the door to let him in. “Come in, you’re hear for more than to just tell me that, aren’t you?” Once inside the cozy home, Niam followed Micheal to the dark tan and white trimmed living room. Flopping down on the brown recliner, Niam looked at Micheal with discerning eyes. “This guy is getting to you, Micheal Padraig.” “You think? He’s smart enough to not leave DNA evidence, he’s using psychic abilities to shatter his victim’s resistance, and he leaves the mark of Taranis.” Micheal paused while he revealed that hidden piece of knowledge. “So, yeah, I think I’ve been gotten to, Niam.” “Taranis? Are you sure?” “No, I’m only guessing. Of course, I’m sure, dammit.” Micheal grunted sarcastically as he pulled out a folder and tossed it to his mentor. “Look for yourself.” Perusing the pictures and the preliminary evidence reports, Niam growled at the crime scene. Granted their rapist hadn’t killed, but he was escalating in the amount of violence used. One particular photograph captured his attention. Tracing the image, Niam swore in Gaelic. “That’s what I said.” Niam handed the folder back to Micheal. “This confirms a suspicion I had. Thanks for showing it to me. You realize that he’ll keep escalating for the power rush.”

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Neither man spoke for a few minutes as they contemplated the serial rapist. Niam could tell that Micheal wasn’t up to the task of feeding him and there was no way he’d ask or accept if he was offered. Micheal Padraig needed his energy to deal with this predator of women. “I need to get out and about, Micheal. I do appreciate this.” Niam stood up, readjusting his shirt as he went to shake Micheal’s hand. “You need to feed, Niam. I can see it in your eyes. I’m well enough for you to take what you need.” “No. You’re not up to it, Micheal. I’ll be fine. There’ll be someone to feed off of while I’m scouting the city.” Niam walked to the door, his friend and former student trailing behind. “I’ll call you if I find anything.” Micheal nodded. “You know-“ “Yeah, I do, my friend. Rest. I’ll need you another day, I fear.” With that, Niam walked out, letting his abilities guide him to the last known crime scene. As Micheal closed the door, his whisper hung in the air after his mentor. “I wish I could tell you what I’m doing to help. But it’s not yet time, my friend.”

*

*

*

Niam stood at the front of the building, his eyes scanning for trouble of any kind. When he was sure that there was no one that posed a risk, he carefully entered the building, using a trick that his brother, Elathan, one of the Wraith Walkers used when wanting to enter a place with solid walls. Concentrating, he willed his body to become like shadow, thus slowly breaking apart his molecular structure so he could phase through solid objects. Once he passed through the locked door, he paused, trying to catch his breath. The concentration of his powers, both Druidic and vampiric in order to pull that off cost him more than he thought. Guess I should’ve fed first. I’ll know better next time. He heard the light sounds of the guard making his rounds. Perhaps he could boost his reserves. Whispering into the air, Niam allowed his vampiric nature control for the moment. As the footsteps got louder, Niam smiled, his fangs growing in anticipation. Though he wasn’t a bloodsucker like his twin, the fangs were useful in drawing in energy. It was one of the marks of the curse that The Morrigan had given his brothers who were vampires. The Wraith Walkers had their own mark, as did the Were-creatures. Yet the bonds of their blood marked them as surely as their preternatural curse. Shaking his head, Niam discharged the weighty thoughts that had

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plagued him since Samhain. The guard wasn’t the stereotypical old, overweight guy. In fact, she was young and slender, aware of her surroundings but unable to resist Niam’s call. Though he did enjoy taking nourishment from such lovelies, there were times when the emotions seemed to overwhelm him with an intensity that belied their beauty. Her blue eyes were unfocused as she stepped towards the shadows where he hid. Niam brought the woman close to him. As he looked down at her, he thought of another blue eyed beauty, one that haunted his dreams for the past ten days. Closing his eyes, he bent forward and brushed his fangs across her lips and then her forehead, allowing the release of her energy. As the guard’s life essence swirled and entered his body, Niam could feel her emotions and memories. There was one memory that Niam picked up on and decided to delve further though he knew that it could be a dead end. Looking through the images hidden in the woman’s mind, he found exactly what he wanted. The guard had been there the night of Trista’s attack. Though she hadn’t seen the rape, the guard had been tampered with mentally. The slight aura of fear penetrated Niam’s mental barriers allowing him to see exactly how close the guard could’ve been the rapist’s next victim. As the guard’s memory of that night slowly opened up to him under his guidance and direction, he tried to focus on the appearance of the man. Yet, no matter how he tried, the view remained distorted. Dammit, why can’t my powers clear up what she saw? A slight scrape against the floor captured his attention, releasing the guard from his mental thrall. The guard blinked, trying to regain her balance. Niam reinforced his mental command for her to forget him, but that her memory of the attack would surface and to inform the police. Reinforcing it with one last kiss, he watched the guard blink as the mental empathic push took hold in her psyche. He left the guard and made his way towards the tell tale noise that let him know that he wasn’t the only one with intentions tonight. Part of his mind continued trying to figure out what was blocking him from knowing who the attacker was while the other had leaped into hunting mode. A lingering trace of perfume let him know that intruder was female. Quietly he hunted, letting his senses guide him down the hallway and to the left, to several financial offices. Quietly picking the lock, he let himself into the inner sanctum. According to the folder of notes, Trista’s office was the second one on the right. As he walked the carpeted hallway, the slight noise that captured his attention grew the closer he got to the source. The scratching sound grew louder as he stepped passed the yellow crime tape. Everything was still in a state of disarray since the cops finished cataloguing everything as well as letting the Crime Scene Investigation Unit to their job. From the report, Niam knew that Trista had been attacked right outside her

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office and the brutality occurred in it proper. Some of the officers thought she had stumbled into a robber who made a sexual faux pas, at least that was the thought until the sign of Taranis showed up. Stealthily he made his way to the Trista’s door. The office was in shambles and kneeling down near the desk was a shadowy figure. Niam stepped forward, his hand reaching for the person when a jolt of electricity shot out at him. Dodging it, he managed to knock the device out of the shadowy hands. A gasp of pain let him know that he connected and that the person was female. Niam flicked on his flashlight, aiming it directly into the face. Kirstie lifted her hands to try to block the bright slash of light that hit her face. “Put it down. I’ve got permission to be here.” “Kirstie? What are you doing here? Don’t you know the risk you’re taking?” Niam shone his light to the floor allowing them both to see each other in its illumination. Her eyes widened as she recognized Niam standing there, dressed in black from head to toe. “Niam? What are you doing here? This place is closed off. I only got in because Trista gave me the keys.” Niam scanned the room and felt the object he was looking for, its malevolence almost singeing the air. Once he realized that this attack too had the mark of Taranis, the storm god, there was little chance that he wouldn’t find the item tagging the site for future work. Throwing Kirstie a look, Niam bypassed her and reached underneath the oak desk. With his deft fingers, he snagged the round disk that helped mark the office for future endeavors. “You shouldn’t be here, Kirstie. Playing at stuff like this isn’t going to endear you to anyone. You might get hurt.” Kirstie snorted as she shone her flashlight towards where Niam was kneeling. She tried to see what it was he was looking for. “I’m not going to get hurt. I’m looking into who hurt Trista. Nothing more or less. Who would hurt me?” Niam growled, letting his anger reverberate through the room at her words. “You’re kidding, right? Look, Kirstie, you can’t just play at this. This isn’t a game. This guy has attacked other women and he’s getting worse. If he stumbled upon the fact that you’re involved, he’s going to stop you. You want to be another statistic?” Kirstie stood up, rising to her full height. “I’m not going to be another statistic, Niam Maraigh. I want to help Trista to get over this. I’ve got contacts.” “Contacts are one thing, Kirstie, but we’re not talking about that. We’re talking about you playing detective. You’ve got no clue of the risks.” “I’m being cautious and I’ve contacted my friends who deal with things like this. And we both know I’m not the one who has visions of playing vigilante crusader,” she retorted hotly.

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Niam grabbed at her arm and shoved the disk at her face. “Do you recognize this sign?” Kirstie took the disk and moved it in the light. The disk has a solar circle with a lightning bolt through it. The background color was black, and the solar wheel was a pale brass color. Yet the lightning bolt glowed with deep burnished gold color. It reminded her of something Celtic, but she struggled to remember what. When her fingernail slid over the lightning, it came to her. “Taranis. Thunder or storm god of the Celts.” Niam retrieved the disk and slid it into a pocket. “Yes, it is. This token has been found at every rape by this fellow. He serves Taranis. This isn’t a game, Kirstie. The gods meddle and more importantly if Taranis is allowing his servants to perpetuate such evil, no one is safe. Especially no woman.” Kirstie shuddered at the lack of warmth in his voice. It was as if he had personal experience in dealing with Taranis, which wasn’t possible. Though Kirstie believed in the gods of the pantheons, particularly The Morrigan, she didn’t think that they took active roles in the lives of their followers. In fact, she felt they wouldn’t or wouldn’t have The Morrigan done something when she had pledged herself. “The gods don’t interfere with mortal life, Niam.” Her voice was soft and comforting. “If they did, things would be a lot worse.” Niam snorted in disbelief. “You actually believe in what you’re saying? If you think that the gods don’t meddle then you have a lot more about life to learn. The evil that occurs isn’t just by man alone but by the hands of the gods of strife, war, and chaos.” Kirstie paused as she weighed her next words. She wasn’t here to fight but to find Trista’s attacker. Yet there was something in Niam’s words that hurt her, pulled at her. Flinging back responses wasn’t going to help. She needed to be alone to consider his words, his accusations. He didn’t understand her and that was that. “You sound as if you know this for a fact. How?” This wasn’t the real question she wanted to ask, but somehow it was more important to know how he could be so sure of his words. “I’ve lived a long time, Kirstie. Trust me, I’ve felt the hand of the gods upon me and have often been asked to do the will of the one I serve. In time, you’ll be asked to do it as well.” “Why should I believe this? What proof is there? You’re just saying this to scare me. So the rapist happens to be a follower of Taranis or at least uses his symbol to be a sign. It doesn’t mean Taranis is actively involved.” Kirstie glared at the man before her. “You’re just telling me this to scare me.” Niam said nothing as he flipped the disk over his fingers in his pocket. He stared into those blue eyes and wished there was a way to convince her, but he knew better. She was already determined to

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search for this man. He had to dissuade her or at least make sure she didn’t go after him alone. “No, my past would scare you. This is just reality, Kirstie. Promise me you won’t keep chasing after this guy.” “No.” “I mean it, Kirstie Blake. I don’t want you playing detective.” Kirstie stamped her foot. “I’m not playing, I’m doing. My friend was hurt.” Niam’s voice became low and soft. “I know and I’m sorry. No woman should be hurt, but do you really think you can handle a man guilty of over seven rapes, each one increasingly more vicious? Do you realize he’s on the verge of going over the edge? How do you plan on stopping him if you can’t even stop a regular attacker?” Kirstie’s eyes welled up with tears. “Get out of here before I call for the guard. Now, Niam.” “I doubt the guard would care I’m here.” “Get out now or I’ll call the detective.” Her voice was filled with pain. “I thought you were a good man, Niam.” His hand touched her should but she shrugged away. “There is no such thing in my family, Kirstie. But I do care about these things. There’s something about you that makes me want to protect you and it would hurt me if you were his next victim. Can you not understand that fact?” Kirstie glanced at the man dressed in black. His voice was poignant, his words ringing true in her heart. But she promised and she didn’t break her promises. “I don’t break my promises, Niam. I have to see this through.” A sigh filled the gap between them. They were at loggerheads and neither of them would move. There had to be some kind of compromise. Just the thought of her facing the serial rapist alone angered him like nothing else. She was a brave woman, but even so, he doubted she could fend off a man who had Taranis’ backing giving him extra power. “You can’t do this alone, Kirstie. Granted, you’re strong in many ways, but this guy doesn’t play fair,” he stated, the last words marked by his hand pointing to the room’s mess. As her eyes took in the marks of violence as if for the first time, Niam’s heart twisted as fear, anger, and pain flitted across Kirstie’s face. “Maybe not, Niam, but I’ve got to help Trista by finding this guy. She’s so afraid he’s going to come back and kill her.” Her voice was quiet, almost too timid as the reality of the situation began to reveal itself. “I promised.” Niam took her hand in his and held it against his heart. As their eyes met, something electric passed through them. His free hand caressed her cheek with a familiarity that she accepted easily.

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“I know you did and I’ll help you keep that promise. However, you can’t go out by yourself. You can accompany me or I can tell you what I find out, but you must promise not to do this alone. Trista wouldn’t want you hurt in order to keep your oath.” Kirstie’s heart pounded in her ears as the enormity of what happened to her friend truly hit her. This was the place where that monster raped Trista and beat her unconscious. She could’ve died at his hands but mercifully she hadn’t. If she was honest with herself, Kirstie knew that she was no physical match for this kind of brutality. If Niam was right and the rapist was in fact decompensating, there was very little time before he stepped over the line from violence to murder. Her body shuddered at the thought. “I can’t make that promise in regards to my working life. There are times when I’m out and about at night. But, as regards investigating this, I won’t do anything without you knowing about it or with me, okay?” Niam brought her hand to his lips, kissing her open palm. “I’ll take that as an oath, fully binding, Kirstie. There’s not much you’ll find here. Why don’t I take you somewhere and we’ll talk about the whole situation?” She nodded as images of Trista battered and broken flitted through her mind causing the room to shrink around her. Images of what Trista had described to her after reliving it in a nightmare began growing in Kirstie’s mind forced a gasp from her as she stepped backwards. Her body began shaking as nausea raced through her. “Please, I need to go, now.” Removing her hand, Kirstie dashed out of the room, leaving behind a scent of panic. Niam looked around at the room to see what caused it then followed her. “Kirstie, wait. What’s wrong? What did you see?” He followed the petite woman as she kept walking until she was across the hall in an alcove where a water cooler stood. Kirstie grabbed a disposable cup and poured herself some water. Greedily she guzzled it down while sneaking glances back at Trista’s office. Once she was done with her drink and her breathing returned to normal, Kirstie glanced up at the raven-haired man who watched her every move. “I can’t explain it. I’ve always been accused of having too vivid of an imagination. For a couple of minutes there, I almost felt like I could see everything that happened to Trista. The things she’s told me seemed to fill up the room. I didn’t want to think about it but then I had no choice.” She blushed and looked away. “See, overactive imagination.” She missed the look Niam gave her as she tried to regain her composure. When she turned back towards him, his look was less intense scrutiny while much more encouraging her to talk to him. “I don’t

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know about that. You mentioned before you’re a pagan. Have you ever been tested for any psychic talents?” She snorted. “Me, psychic? Only when it comes to numbers and efficiency. Otherwise, no.” One brow lifted at the self-depreciation. “Latent talents can go undetected or misdiagnosed.” The look on her face was enough for him to drop it, for now. He guided her carefully and quietly out of the building, allowing her to use her borrowed keys to unlock and relock their escape door. “Where did you park your car?” she asked as they walked towards her vehicle. “I actually walked here. That way I can’t be tied to being in this area by a car.” His answer was nonchalant as he walked by her side. The night made the building seem a little less prestigious, especially with the memory of her friend’s attack. Kirstie kept close to his side unknowingly. Their hands brushed as she got out her car keys from her pants pocket. The jolt of electricity was like a magnet of sensations as she took in his strong profile while unlocking the passenger door. There was something commanding and very sensual about Niam. Danger radiated around him, though Kirstie was’t sure if it was Niam himself. Her mind hadn’t forgotten their initial meeting and wouldn’t let her forget it or her reaction to him. Even after coming face to face with him at the therapist’s office, Kirstie tried to not think on how her heart rate had picked up or how she wanted to touch him to make sure he was real. Nor could she think on how badly she wanted to be kissed by him. She let him slide in and then went to the driver’s side. Once in her car, she realized how much of her personal space Niam seemed to invade, yet she wasn’t afraid. Nervous, yes. Afraid, no. Buckling her seatbelt, she started the engine. “Where to?” Niam saw and felt the strain she radiated. She needed to release the strain over what happened and they needed some ground rules. “Jade’s Coffee Shop on 5th Street. It’s open late and we can sit in a booth and talk quietly.” She nodded but didn’t say anything as she pulled out into the road. It wouldn’t be a long trip, so Niam took the time to consider how he could include her yet not hamper his investigation. Just when he thought he had things under control and might get a break, the serial rapist would make a slight change thus eluding capture. Keeping Kirstie safe but letting her work out her grief for her friend would be difficult. Niam tried to focus on that small problem but then a whiff of her essence assailed his nostrils. Her energy called to him and intensified the craving to feed. The ride could not end soon enough as each minute spent in the car would make it harder for him to concentrate on the case and not on feasting upon her energy. He shifted in the seat to distract him from her tempting fragrance. Yet even within her erotic

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scent, there was something calming to his base preternatural urges. Kirstie glanced cautiously to see why he moved and bit back a gasp at the feral look on Niam’s face. Though she should be frightened by such a look, the hidden secret part of her was turned on by the animalistic look. She tamped down an erotic shiver at the thought of him looking at her as his prey. Pulling into the parking lot next to the coffee shop, she tried to restrain her thoughts. She turned off the engine and opened up her door to get out when she found Niam there. Blinking, she looked at the passenger door then back to the man who stood almost too close against her. He didn’t move as she tried to slide passed him. A deep tingle shuddered through her body as her breasts rasped across Niam’s chest. His arm shot out trapping her between the car door and his tall, hard body. A feral grin still rode on his full lips, but there was something more there, something very sensual. His eyes glittered from the light of a nearby street lamp as his head lowered. His mouth caressed her ear as he whispered, “I can smell your desire, feel your heart pounding. You want me to kiss you again, Kirstie.”

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Chapter Three Dizzying warmth flooded her as his lips captured hers. Without realizing it, her hands clenched his shoulders, bracing herself against the assault of her senses. His tongue was warm as it rasped against hers then explored the roof of her mouth causing her to tremble. Kirstie leaned against him, his heat enveloping her body, lust filling her beyond what she’d ever experienced before. He hadn’t meant to kiss her, but when he felt her desire to kiss him slide beneath his tele-empathic shields, Niam couldn’t hold back his need to taste her. His hands wrapped around her, pulling her closer against him. Struggling, he tried to not let his need to feed interfere with the growing passion felt in Kirstie’s presence. As he felt her psychic energy start entering him, Niam pulled away letting his lips gently caress hers one last time. Kirstie shook with desire for this man whom she barely knew. Her eyes flitted open and she saw the look of dark hunger he was giving her. There was no way to hide her own lust filled look, so she didn’t even try. Drawing in a shaky breath, she pushed past him and rushed into the coffee shop. Niam let her go while he willed his ravenous hunger down. He hadn’t lost his control like this since that first night. Closing his eyes, he felt instantly transported back to the first night of that hated transformation.

*

*

*

The night seemed so dark and the hunger so strong that Niam struggled to find his way to the pier. The boat waited as it always did on Iona. It would take him to the mainland. Once there, he could feed. The Morrigan had appeared and spoken his curse as fire raced through his body. The ride across the water felt like it lasted forever. Niam shuddered as a soft breeze caressed his face. Wrapping his cloak around him, he tried to process the words that The Morrigan spoke to him when she stood over his naked body and traced the ancient runes on his body, forever changing him. “You, Niam Maraigh shall suffer for your arrogance and in your denial of my wishes. You and your deartháir failed me and my punishment is to curse you to the night of lingering undeath. Never shall you or yours be able to ever have love or fulfillment.” Niam struggled against invisible bonds that kept him pinned on the bedroll. The Morrigan smirked as her fingers caressed his hard cock as she leaned down and placed her blood red lips against it. It twitched as her cool mouth caressed it. Her lavender eyes wickedly gleamed in the moonlight. Niam bit back a moan knowing that any sign of weakness and lack of control would give her more leverage.

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Though he knew that they were to be punished for being deceived and not doing what the goddess of war wished, he hadn’t thought she’d come to him personally. Her long nails ran along his length, causing his hips to shift, unconsciously urging for more. The Morrigan bared her teeth in a wicked, knowing grin. “Oh, I know you’ve desired to be with a goddess, just as your older brother had done. Yet, I shall deny you the pleasure of having me, Niam. At one time, I had considered coming to you at Beltane, to allow us both the pleasure of sexual intimacy, but now, I must punish you for your disobedience.” “Morrigu, I have ever served you. My deartháir and I didn’t know that Caerwyn was no longer serving you,” Niam gasped as her fingers brought him to the brink of ecstasy. His defined muscles tensed against the bonds as his body betrayed his desire to fuck the goddess of War, Fey, and Death senseless. “Morrigu, please-“ A red tongue flicked out of The Morrigan’s mouth tasting the tip of the engorged cock. Her black hair split across Niam’s thighs. “Please? Please? Oh Niam Maraigh, you have no idea on how much it would’ve pleased me. But now, with this moment, comes your curse. As you will empty your seed, you shall be empty of energy, of life. You must feed upon others in order to survive. This is the price of disobedience, He-Who-Would-Have-Been-My-Lover.” With that statement, she caressed him and instantly Niam’s world spun as his body climaxed hard. He closed his eyes as he felt the falling sensation that accompanied such completion. As his body released his seed onto his body, he felt a deeper loss. Normally such a release would leave him slightly tired, but now there was this intense craving, this need for life energy. Niam opened his eyes and discovered he was all alone for The Morrigan had left now she had completed her curse upon him.

Now, now, he was going to the mainland, to feed. Revulsion filled him as the boat docked itself at the pier only others of his order used. Stepping lightly onto the shore, Niam stealthily made his way towards the nearby village. It was where the order often traded for goods they couldn’t find on Iona. However, he wasn’t here to trade he was here to feed. His body clenched as ravenous hunger coursed through his body once more. A deep, sensuous laughter rifled through his mind as he closed on his quarry, a gentle maid whose company he enjoyed. Though he didn’t know exactly how he was supposed to feed, Niam knew that his instincts would guide him. “Go ahead, she is a ripe and luscious one to quench your first thirst in,” The Morrigan urged with a slightly evil tinge in her voice. “Niam, you need to feed before you become so weak that others can

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harm you. Just kiss her, taste her, allow yourself to enjoy her.” Niam grabbed Siobhan against him and she smiled as she realized who had grabbed her in the night. “Niam, why didn’t you tell me- “Her words were cut off as Niam’s lips covered hers. His passion soared as he remembered The Morrigan’s touch on his body, burning him with lust, which increased his need to feed. Siobhan’s lips parted and greedily Niam began thrusting his tongue deep as he felt something coalesce inside her and begin traveling out of her and into his body. Niam shuddered as her life force began entering his body, nourishing him and causing a feeling akin to ecstasy. He knew he needed to pull back, but the hunger wouldn’t allow him to break his link to the brown haired beauty. Only when she collapsed in his arms, unconscious and barely breathing could he break his bond that allowed him to feed. “Damn you, Morrigu. She doesn’t deserve this,” Niam muttered as he carried the limp woman to her home. “If she dies, I will find somehow to end my life. She’s an innocent.” “She won’t die, Druid. However, you must learn control of your new talents,” Morrigu answered back. “You cannot lose your life by your own hand. I am your Patroness and the goddess of death. Don’t think you can easily die when I forbid it.”

*

*

*

Niam opened his eyes and pushed down the memory back to where it belonged, the past. He couldn’t let himself go with Kirstie, no matter how hard his body wanted her. Just the fact he wanted to taste her life force without forethought, was enough to make him hesitate. Kirstie made him nervous on various levels of being. Yet, she was in there waiting for him. Once inside the coffee shop, which was decorated in soothing greens and blues, Niam let out a sigh releasing the tension that had built up in his muscles. He waved to Jade, the dark haired beauty who was partially deaf and was someone he watched out for. She nodded and pointed to where Kirstie sat waiting for him. “I’m sorry, I made sure the car was okay.” Kirstie avoided looking at him and he felt her slowly cooling desire wash over him like a silken fabric arousing his nerve endings. He reached over the table and cupped her chin forcing her to look at him. “I’m not sorry for kissing you.” Kirstie gasped at his statement. “You mean you are sorry for kissing me, right?” “No, I’m not sorry. I wanted to kiss you and you wanted to kiss me. We both have thought about our last kiss and wanted it again. I won’t apologize for something we both wanted.” Niam ran his fingers through his dark hair giving him a ruffled appearance. “I’m sorry we were in a public place when that

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happened. Next time we’ll be alone so we can both enjoy ourselves more.” He knew the look of shock on her face was mirrored in his. Where the hell did that come from? The goal was to not touch her again, not to connect to her deeply on another level. Had he lost his mind completely over that kiss? Yet inside him, something about this felt so right he wouldn’t change his mind now. “I mean it, Kirstie. Every word of it.” Kirstie dry swallowed then sipped her cappuccino. “I don’t understand. Why did you stop?” She shook her head, her dark hair swirling around her face. Her body burned at the thought of him touching her more than just a mere kiss. Grounding, they needed to get back on track. “Never mind. You said something about the ground rules?” Niam took her change of topic with a nod. He wasn’t going to push, in fact, he was grateful of the change. “Yes, we were speaking about ground rules. There are some things we need to make sure of, if we’re going to work together. First of which is the times when you can work with me at night.” “Night work? What about daytime as well? I’m on vacation for the next two weeks and I can follow up daytime leads as well,” Kirstie interjected. Niam shook his head. “We can’t work it by day, Kirstie. Remember that during the day hours, we have the garda working the case. By night, we can get into areas that normally would be cut off to us by day.” Kirstie’s estimation of Niam’s abilities edged up a notch. “Plus, you have your connection with the police.” Niam inclined his head. “Yes, there is my connection to Micheal Padraig. Though I would never abuse it, I’m not going to push the limits of my friendship with him either. This is why it’s of major import that we work at night.” “What about sleep?” Niam grinned at her. “Are you suggesting we sleep together, Kirstie? Who knew you’d be so forward.” Kirstie’s hand quickly smacked his arm as she gasped. “That’s not what I meant, Niam Maraigh and you know it.” His fingers wrapped around hers and held them against his black shirt. “I know what you meant, Kirstie. But to see the expression on your face was priceless.” He leaned over and whispered, “But we both know there will come a time when you will sleep with me and there will be no sleep.” Kirstie ripped her hand back. “Why do you keep doing that?” “Doing what?”

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“Making this into a sexual conversation.” Niam sighed. “I’m not entirely sure, Kirstie, but I do know this, regardless of this case, I’m drawn to you like no other woman. I want you and I’m not the type of man not to acknowledge it. Your body tells me that you want me to, but granted this isn’t the time or place. I’ll try to restrain myself. Mé mionnaigh.” The fact that he promised in his mother tongue made Kirstie feel better. She nodded and let his hand hold hers. “Okay then. What are we looking at regarding night?” Niam smiled. “Nothing too late. We could keep my usual hours from eight until midnight. That’ll still allow us time to get to bed and sleep since I have work in the mornings. When you go back to work, we’ll adapt it for those nights you’ve got to work.” “Okay, I can handle that.” Kirstie drew out a business card and slid it to him. “This has my office and cell phone number. You can call me at any time. If I don’t answer, I do have voice mail and I’ll get back to you the moment I can speak freely.” Niam returned the gesture with a card from his wallet. “Here is mine. The cell phone number is usually the easiest way to reach me regardless.” Kirstie mentioned, “Neither of us can hide the information we find from the other. If we find some piece of evidence, we must notify the other if we’re not out together. And on the nights I can’t work, we’ll meet up for lunch the next day or we’ll talk on the phone.” Niam kissed the palm of her hand. ‘Agreed. Call me each day by seven and I’ll let you know if I’m ready to go. Sometimes my sessions run a bit late, so it’s easier if you call me.” “That’s fine.” Kirstie glanced at her watch. It was almost midnight. “I need to get back to Trista in case she wakes up from a nightmare.” Niam nodded. As they both stood up, he tossed some money down to pay for the drinks and tip Jade. He walked her to her car. “You sure I can’t drop you off somewhere?” she asked, her blue eyes searching his. “I’m parked not far from here. You need to get back to Trista.” Niam pulled her close against him and tilted up her chin. “Until tomorrow night, Kirstie.” His lips brushed hers and were softer than a whisper. She tasted of chocolate amaretto cappuccino and he knew that if he lingered, he’d want to explore her thoroughly. “Oichte mhaith, Kirstie.” “Sleep well, yourself, Niam.” She watched him walk towards the back of the parking lot and become one with the darkness. Kirstie slid into her car and headed for home. She hoped that Trista was still sleeping as peacefully as when she left.

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Once home, Kirstie quietly let herself into her apartment. There were no extra lights on, so she knew Trista hadn’t awoken. As Kirstie walked into her bedroom, however, her two candles erupted into flame, creating a flash of light towards the center of her blue bedroom. As her eyes adjusted to the sudden brightness, Kirstie realized there was someone there. “Who are you? What are you doing in my home?” The voice was low and melodious. “You are the one who invited me, Kirstie Blake. You are my daughter and servant, are you not?” Kirstie knew the voice. It was the one who spoke to her at her initiation rites. Dropping to her knees, she bowed her head. “The Morrigan. Forgive me, I didn’t realize-“ A warm hand cupped Kirstie’s chin and tilted her head back. “Tis okay, my child. When you finished your first year studies and requested me to be your Patroness, I couldn’t believe it was true, but you do have the look of your ancestress.” Kirstie looked upon the dark haired beauty, who was dressed in black robes in wonder. “I don’t understand, Goddess.” The Morrigan smiled, the gleam of her white teeth lending her more of a glow. “You don’t need to understand yet, my daughter. I’ve accepted your petition and you are now one of mine just as your ancestress so long ago was. I had given up hope.” The goddess paused a moment. “You do bear my mark?” Kirstie nodded and pulled up her shirt and shoved down part of her black pants. On her left inner hip was a purplish birthmark shaped like a raven, The Morrigan’s chosen animal. “I’ve had this since birth. When I first learned of you, I thought perhaps you had chosen me as a child. My mother said all of us women in the Doherty line possess this mark somewhere upon our body.” The Morrigan threw back her head and chuckled in delight. “This is the most wonderful news. Macha was correct then. There were survivors.” “I don’t-“ A hand caressed Kirstie’s cheek. “Shh, you need not understand all I’m about to say for now. But you need to remember this: I have accepted you; you are my daughter by choice, by mark, and by your ancestral line. If you ever have need of me, call me and I shall come to you. I know there is one whom scares you and another whom you desire. Trust in that desire and the feelings he brings you, my child. Fáilte my daughter.” Suddenly the lights went out and Kirstie was left alone, kneeling in the dark. She made her way to her light switch and flipped it on. Nothing seemed different in the room. There was no way she drank or

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eaten anything that could’ve cause hallucinations. She looked at her birthmark and noticed that it was now outlined with black and was more defined as a raven. The goddess had indeed come to her and confirmed her status. Thank you, The Morrigan, my life is yours now and always.

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Chapter Four Morning found Kirstie happy and singing as her friend Trista walked into the kitchen. “You do know that you singing off key like this, scares any sane human,” Trista joked as she hugged her friend. “There is that rumor,” Kirstie teased back. “How was your sleep last night?” “The best I’ve had in almost a week. Did you sleep well?” Kirstie smiled brightly. “I had the most marvelous night. My dreams were unbelievably happy and my goddess has accepted me. I’m thrilled.” “You want to explain that?” Trista sat down on the stool at the breakfast bar. “I’m all ears.” “Well, it’s like this-“

*

*

*

Niam growled at the video conferencing screen before him. Granted that this was their usual weekly meeting, but considering that he hadn’t slept well, Niam really wasn’t into dealing with his brothers. As he logged onto their network, he noticed that Owain’s video signal was still down. Miach wouldn’t be pleased, but considering he did check in, there’s not much he could say on the matter. As each brother logged in, their faces filled the small screens on his computer monitor. From the blonde haired, ever smiling Donal to the somber faced Miach, eight of the nine brothers had gathered together for their weekly meeting. “Did my secretary call you, Miach?” Niam asked before Miach could jump in about the missing twin. “Yes, I also managed a three minute conversation with the errant doctor. Seems he’s hunting down a couple of leads not only in the vampire resolution department but also in taking out some of the great enclaves,” Miach retorted with quiet authority. Many women had remarked that Miach reminded them of that guy who played Prince Edward I in A Knight’s Tale, but little did they realize that all the brothers had served him as well. Niam could see a faint resemblance but knew better than to bring it up. It had been a sticking point then as well as now. Finn nodded. As he stroked his dark beard, he commented, “Denizens of the Otherworld are stirred up. My last Shadow Walk informed me that Macha had seen truly. What this means for us, I’m not sure. That having been said, we need to be especially careful from now until Beltane.” Donal nodded, his blonde bangs falling into his green eyes. “I’m still not sure what all Macha

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accomplished that night, but even my online security company work has increased exponentially. Think Taranis is gearing up for something?” Cuin tilted his head. “When is our divine adversary not up to something? Since Samhain, all I know is that I’ve found that I’ve not had much downtime.” Elathan grimaced. “Tell me about it. I ran into two major ghosts and a few angry spirits while at a castle in Bavaria. It wasn’t easy defeating them. If I didn’t know better, I’d swear they were increasing in their abilities to defend against us.” Finn scowled, making him look more like the Greek god of war, Ares, than the dark Celt he was. “I wish I knew of this earlier. I’ve been finding it tougher as well in dealing with shifters gone bad. Then there are the stalkers among the rich and famous. They’re getting worse and most of them are not your normal humans.” Dylan murmured something that Niam just barely caught as Miach growled at both Finn and Elathan. “We are too few in this fight.” Niam tagged Dylan on their private instant messenger and typed, “What do you mean that there’s an increase in missing pagans in your area?” Dylan responded, “Yeah, in the past two months, five young women who are known pagans have gone missing here in Boston.” Niam sighed as he typed, “How is Siobhan?” There was a pause in the typing before Dylan answered, “Last time I heard from her, she was fine. She’s not working with me at the agency right now.” A dark brow lifted as Niam considered the emotion behind Dylan’s answer. His brother was an Ovate and a Were-eagle. Siobhan was Micheal Padraig’s sister and the one person in Boston that was Dylan’s human helper or cúntoir. “Where is she then?” “I thought she was headed for her parents’ home. I’ll check in on her.” “Good. The last thing we need is one of our cúntóir to be captured, Dylan.” He could almost hear Dylan’s sigh at the censure. “I know Siobhan is important. Moreover, her family is more than just the ‘help’ to us, Niam. Just that she and I got into an argument over the missing cases. She wanted to take part and I thought she might be at risk if she did.” “Possibly, but now you’ve no idea where she is. Just get her to check in.” He left his brother to think on the ramifications of Siobhan not checking in with the increased problems. Niam noticed that Miach had instant messaged him. He pulled it up and read it. “Tell me about how your case is going on the serial rapist.” Instead of answering Miach in the private, he started discussing it in the main conference while

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telling the details about Kirstie to his elder brother’s eyes alone. “She draws me like no other woman I’ve ever known, Miach. I want her. There’s this need to be with her, to touch her that I don’t remember experiencing before First Night or since.” Miach hesitated a moment. “Have you consulted The Morrigan on this?” Niam snorted and inserted an icon that did the same thing. “As if she would speak to me. We both know that at most, she will tolerate you and Finn.” “I’ll speak to Finn on it and see if we can use the ogham for some answers for you.” “Thanks, you know I’d do it myself, but-“ Niam could almost see Miach’s head incline slightly. “It never bodes well for us to draw for ourselves in a case like this. I may kill your twin however, if he doesn’t start getting out of his researcher mode.” “You could try, but we both know that Owain has saved us more times than any of us would like to admit.” “I’m giving him three weeks as long as he gives brief contact with any of us. Whoever hears from him, logs it on the network so we’ll know.” Cadrus made a comment on the video conference. “Question, Niam. Are you sure this guy is in league with Taranis? What are the chances that he’s just using the symbol?” Niam shook his head. “That was the first thing that Micheal Padraig and I considered. The rapist is decompensating. The acts are escalating in violence and the rage is coming in shorter time frames. Murder isn’t far away. He’s left the Taranis symbols since the first rape. Plus, each place looks like a storm of increasing intensity has hit it.” Cadrus looked thoughtful. “Take care then, Niam. If this guy is in league, then Taranis will grant him help with other minions. The leap from violence to murder is just one person losing control. Or pushed by the storm god and his minions.” “Agreed. Anyone else?” Niam asked, wanting to shower and get ready for work. “I do,” Cuin said, his sea green eyes locking on Niam’s. “Have you had anything unusual happen lately?” “Unusual how?” Cuin lifted his brow and smirked. “That’s what I thought, Niam. Be careful. Macha’s work is in the air. I’ve sensed her out and about. The past three days, I’ve seen ravens following me. We all need to be on guard.” “That’s a reminder for all of us. Just because we’re Marauders, we’re still Druids, first and

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foremost. Though we made an error once in our lives, that doesn’t mean we can afford another major one. If no one has anything else to add, we’ll adjourn for now. Everyone just make sure you either call or log into the network within the next forty-eight hours. Whoever hears from Owain, make sure you log in on his behalf as he won’t have access to the phone or a computer often while he’s out and about throughout Egypt.” Miach’s words closed the meeting as each brother spoke privately with the others. Niam excused himself to get ready for work. As it was, his thoughts strayed back to the young woman whom he could envision with only her name. Kirstie.

*

*

*

“So your chosen goddess is your Patroness as well?” Trista asked while finishing her breakfast of waffles that Kirstie had made for her. “Yes. But what is surprising that according to The Morrigan, my family has served her in the past, though I can’t remember who would have.” Kirstie took the last bite of her strawberry waffle. Trista shook her head. “You and your family are definitely different. Your mother was the first to ever take the last name of her husband’s wasn’t she?” A grin lit up Kirstie’s face. “Yeah. You should’ve heard all my aunts and my grandmother, according to my mom. It’s still an issue even after all of these years.” “They’ve not made you take the name have you?” Kirstie nodded. “Actually they tried when I turned eighteen. As I told them, I was born with the name Blake, so I’m staying a Blake. However, I did make the concession of taking my mom’s maiden name as my second middle name.” Trista sighed. After she took a sip of her orange juice, she gestured at Kirstie. “The women in your family are very strong in their own right. I think it’s a big reason you do as well as you have.” Kirstie thought on that for a moment. “You know, you might be right on that. I hadn’t really thought on it much, but yes, the women in my family are all very capable and taught me to be the same way. But they all adore my father, which is not surprising as he supports my mom in whatever she wants to attempt.” “I wish I was I could be that strong.” Trista didn’t look at Kirstie, but took their dishes and began to wash them. Kirstie laid her hand on her friend’s shoulder. “You can. It’s just a matter of making the choice to be strong and to take that first step. I’ll help you.”

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Turning off the water, she guided Trista to her workout room. Teaching her friend how to be strong and to make hard moves would be the easy part. Kirstie knew that with repetition and time, her friend would be able to be as strong as she thought Kirstie was, even though at times she doubted her own strength.

*

*

*

Later on that afternoon when Trista laid down for a nap, Kirstie paced the living room. Should she call Niam? Should she wait? Granted they hadn’t made firm plans, but she admitted to herself that she wanted to see him again. His dark handsome looks made her feel sexy and beautiful, especially when he turned that almost feral gaze her way. Her body shivered in remembrance of the look he gave her after their kiss. The ringing of the phone startled her out of her reverie. “Hello?” “Kirstie? This is Niam.” Smiling, she carried it to the couch and curled up on it, enjoying his voice. “Hey there. How are you doing today?” She heard his sigh and could almost see him running his fingers through his hair. Before he could respond, Kirstie answered her own question. “That bad, I take it.” Niam smiled at the sympathy in her voice. She couldn’t have known that all the victims except for Trista had called in a panic because they had all been plagued by nightmares of their deaths. It took all of his ability and skills to not only calm them down, but to fit them into his already packed schedule for the day. “It was hellacious. How is Trista?” Kirstie paused and a smile shone through her voice. “Much better today. I started some basic training in the Celtic ancient ways with her. I’m hoping in time that it’ll help strengthen her. She said she wanted to be strong like my family and me.” “Did she have any nightmares last night?” Niam listened carefully to Kirstie’s breathing for any hint of reluctance. “No, she slept well. I think her first session with you combined with the restorative sleep spell upon the dreamcatcher hanging in the guest room helps assure it.” “When did you use both?” “What’s going on, Niam. You’re asking these things for a reason, aren’t you?” Niam debated a moment then answered. “Yes, I am. Let me get this information from you first,

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then I’ll explain what’s happened.” Kirstie nodded. “Okay, I can work with that. The dreamcatcher has always hung above the bed. It was one of my things about people sleeping in my place. I like them sleeping well. As for the restorative spell, I’ve been trying it on her for the past two nights. Last night was the first time it actually worked well.” “Then she’s the only one who wasn’t affected last night by severe nightmares of the rapist coming back to kill her,” Niam stated softly. Kirstie paused a moment then when she spoke it was low and confiding. “Niam, she’s had those nightmares from the day he brutally raped her. Last night was the first night she felt safe, when you removed the Taranis symbol.” “That’s it. You’re brilliant, Kirstie. I bet there are symbols hidden at each of the other places still.” Niam scribbled something down. “Can I ask you not to join me tonight? Let me go back to the places and search for the symbol on my own. I can get through the sites quicker. Then I’ll stop over there, give Trista a once over and then we’ll talk.” “But-“ “But nothing, Kirstie. Listen, all I’m doing is researching the crime sites looking for another round disc with the Taranis symbol. I’ll bring them to you and we’ll discuss what to do next. Then once Trista’s in bed for the night, we’ll go out for a while once we establish where we want to look first.” Niam stopped a moment, covered his hand over the mouthpiece, said something to someone- his secretary perhaps, and then uncupped the phone. “I know I said we’d go together on things, but I can get permission for me to go do this quicker than try to drag you past as patrols go by.” Kirstie considered his words. He was right. Considering this new aspect, she had to trust him in this. There’s no way she’d be able to handle going site to site, not knowing the setup and hoping to know where to look for it. She didn’t even know where all the sites were. “You’re right, Niam. What time will you be here?” “It’s about five now, so I can be at your place by eight or so. Let Trista know I’m stopping by to see her and make sure she’s feeling better.” He stopped a moment then asked, “Kirstie, do you know how to get Trista into a meditative or trance state easily?” “Yes, in fact, I showed her how to do it for herself to help show her how to make herself stronger while meditating. Why?” “I owe you a kiss when I get there. That’s a necessary step for Trista. Of all the victims, she was the worse hurt. Have you thought about training her in the way of your nemeton?” Kirstie looked at the phone and then put it back to her ear. “You mean take Trista along the path?

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See if she’d want to become a Druid?” The thought caused her to think a moment and she realized the idea wasn’t as scary as she thought it might. “I had never considered it before.” “Perhaps you should. Are you part of the Oak, Elder, or Holly grove?” Kirstie smiled. “None of those actually. I’m part of the saille or willow nemeton.” “You’re a saille?” “Yes.” “I need to go, but we’ll discuss this too when I get there. Be careful, Kirstie. Keep Trista and yourself safe.” “Until later, Niam. Bendithion.” “Blessings to you too, dear.” He hung up the phone, leaving Kirstie to hang up her phone. She pressed the button to turn it off and set it on the table beside her. He would be here in a couple of hours. There was much to do, granted the house was clean, almost too immaculate according to her mom, Celta, however, there was supper to consider. Kirstie made her way to the kitchen and rifled through the freezer looking to find something for the three of them to eat. When Trista awoke from her nap, they’d do another workout in judo in order to help toughen Trista. Taking out some steaks, Kirstie quickly made some marinade and set the frozen steaks in the liquid mixture and put it in the refrigerator. The salad was already prepared as she always kept salad ready to eat. The only thing she would need to do was make some vegetables, something that could be done in a while. A scuff of movement caught her attention. Trista wandered into the kitchen as Kirstie finished washing the last couple of bowls that had went to making the marinade. “You okay?” “I’m okay. A bit tired, but fine. Just some unsettling dreams while I napped. How about you?” “Niam called. He’ll be here around eight or so.” Kirstie’s eyes took in Trista’s appearance and realized the dreams had made her seem a bit more fragile than she was when she went to nap. “Why don’t you change into something to workout in. We’ll go a couple of rounds of judo and I have something I want to put before you. Something that Niam mentioned and I think might be just what you need.” Trista’s blue-green eyes tried to discern Kirstie’s thoughts. Little did her friend know what might be in store. Though Kirstie, herself, wouldn’t be her mentor, she could begin the lessons that might lead Trista not only down the path of Druidism, but also one of inner strength and power. Kirstie grabbed her friend’s arm and dragged her towards the rooms to change so they could work out and practice deep meditation.

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Niam stood at the door of Kirstie’s apartment and sighed. It had been a long, yet somewhat successful night. He had found all but two symbols at the crime scenes. Of the two, they corresponded with the two women who suffered the worst nightmares. Those discs had to be around somewhere, but where, he couldn’t figure out. Perhaps Kirstie might have an idea. Having someone other than Micheal Padraig was a nice change. Usually he kept to himself, but in this kind of case, he often coordinated his efforts with his cúntóir. Having someone fresh and new gave a different perspective, which might be helpful, though Kirstie didn’t know the truth regarding Niam. He pressed the doorbell twice in rapid succession and waited. Niam had fed and changed his clothes before coming over. Luckily for him both before his reconnaissance and after, he was able to find someone to supply him with some life energy. Looking at either Kirstie or Trista as nourishment would be crude in the extreme, though he admitted to wanting Kirstie even if he was completely replenished. The door swung open and Kirstie stood before him, her hair pulled back in a ponytail and her body in crimson leotard with black Capri pants. Rivulets of perspiration made their way down her neck and shoulders. “Sorry, I hope you weren’t waiting long. Trista and I were working out while supper cooked. Come on in, Niam.” Her right hand casually brushed against him before shutting the door. Time seemed to stand still as they looked at each other, the chemistry between them arcing back and forth. Their bodies gravitated towards each other when Trista appeared, a smile on her face. “Hi Niam. Good to see you. Kirstie told me you were coming over.” Kirstie imperceptibly moved away from the tall and dark male. Giving her friend a smile, she waved them both towards the couches and chairs. “Take a seat. I’ll get us all something to drink. Lemonade? Water? Something stronger?” “Water for me,” Trista remarked as she and Niam sat almost opposite from each other. “Lemonade would be great. Maith agat, Kirstie.” Kirstie hurried to the kitchen. Once she was through saloon style doors that separated the kitchen from the dining area, she leaned against the refrigerator gathering her senses. Each time she was in his presence, the more she longed to touch and be touched by Niam. There was something about his presence that called to her soul, her heart. She couldn’t risk it though. Kirstie had been through good and bad relationships, but nothing like this. His brooding dark looks reminded her of the Highlander series by Karen Moning and other historical romance authors she enjoyed reading when no one was about. Given the chance, she’d have voted Niam Maraigh as a Dark Hunter from the Sherrilyn Kenyon series, the DarkHunters. The idea of seeing Niam in various stages of undress made her mouth water. Stop that Kirstie Allyn Doherty Blake. You do not need to be thinking of your partner as a sex object. How many times have you yelled at some of your male friends for looking at women for only their

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looks? Now stop it. Kirstie took a deep breath and released it slowly. As she did, she grabbed tall glasses from the cabinet next to the refrigerator and began getting the drinks. Granted he’s one of the sexiest men you’ve ever set eyes upon, but you can’t have double standards, even if you’d love to take the time to nibble on his naked flesh. “Sheesh, you’ve got to stop thinking like that,” she muttered aloud to herself. Grabbing some cheese and crackers, she placed them on the serving platter. Her shields were a bit ragged from working with Trista, but overall she knew it wasn’t that alone that had her thinking like this. It was the dream she had since she was a child. Every year more and more detail would be revealed like a past life memory. The hero in her dream was beginning to show his face and it was Niam’s she glimpsed last night. She wasn’t sure if it was truly him or if that’s what she secretly wanted. Either way, she was becoming fascinated with him. Taking out the steaks and placing them on the grill portion of her stove, Kirstie took the drinks out to the living room. “I’m sorry I took so long, but I also put the steaks on the grill.” She handed each their drink. “I’ve also brought out some cheese and crackers. The steaks should be done in about five minutes with one flip.” Trista rolled her eyes. “This would be the Kirstie way of having steak, right?” Kirstie’s blue eyes blinked at her friend in mock surprise. “But, of course. Did you really think otherwise?” Niam’s dark brow arched. “The Kirstie way?” Trista nodded. “This means if we had a defibrillator, we could give it about three hundred joules and give it one shock and the steak would moo.” Niam chuckled. “Sounds like the way my brothers and I prefer our steaks as well. I think you’ve been outvoted on this, Trista.” Trista gasped and sighed dramatically. “Not you, too. Am I the only one who prefers her steak not bloody?” “I believe the answer to that is, ‘Yes.’” Kirstie giggled, still standing. “I’ve got to go flip the bloody meat. I’ll give yours a couple of extra minutes, Trista. I wouldn’t dare have you gag on tonight’s meal.” As she turned to the kitchen, Niam called out. “You need any help, Kirstie?” “I’m fine. You and Trista finish talking. I’ll call when the food is ready.” Niam nodded and watched her walk back into the kitchen then turned his gaze to the young woman across him. “She’s a good friend to you.”

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“More than I realized,” Trista agreed. “We’ve always been fairly close growing up, but the last year or so, we’ve become closer. Now with this thing, we’ve gotten very close.” “Sounds like being around her is helping you get through this hard time.” His eyes scanned for any signs of discomfiture or hesitation. He found none. “Definitely. She and her family are some of the strongest people I know. Kirstie is helping me with my self-confidence and in getting stronger about self-defense. I don’t know what I’d have done without her.” “Tuigim, I understand. I’m like that with my brothers. We’re close and help each other as much as we can, considering we’re spread across the world.” Trista’s sea green eyes captured his. “How many brothers do you have?” “Ocht. Eight. I’m a twin as well.” Neither of them noticed Kirstie standing nearby listening. She had returned to tell them that supper was ready, but waited to hear more about Niam’s family. “Do they all have unusual names like you?” Niam chuckled. “Most of us, yes. My twin is Owain. Most Americans pronounce it as ‘oh-wayne’ though the closer pronunciation is ‘oh-ween.’ The oldest of us is Miach.” Shaking his head while grinning, he explained to Trista. “Miach is the oldest by two years. Our mother and father greatly loved each other. There is Finn, Cadrus, Donal, Dylan, Elathan, and Cuin. Donal is the baby among us.” Kirstie interrupted. “Sounds like you all drove your mother nuts. That many males and no girls?” Niam’s face sobered slightly. “There were two girls. Dana and Aoife. They died in their early teens.” “I’m sorry.” “It’s okay, the time we had with them I wouldn’t trade for the world. I guess supper is ready?” Kirstie nodded. “Correct. I have the table in the kitchen set. I’ve put on the Chieftains unless you’d like to listen to something else?” Trista grinned. “What no Clannad today?” Kirstie shook a finger at her friend. “Hey, that was yesterday’s music. Today you can choose between the Chieftains or the Celtic Choir. I can’t find my hard rock mix. You borrow it again?” Trista snorted and took Niam’s arm. “Come, let’s go eat. Kirstie’s having a mood.” Mock whispering, she continued. “This is known as Kirstie’s Celtic time. Around the major Celtic holidays, she plays more of her favorite Irish and Scottish tunes. All of us have gotten used to it. But it does help us to remember that her holidays are upcoming, so we remember to not plan anything special on those days.” Kirstie grabbed her friend’s shoulders and hugged her as they walked through the swinging saloon

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doors. “Well, you, Jase, Pyotr, and Illyana are the ones who seem to remember best on that. Colette follows them herself, so she doesn’t need the reminders.” Seeing the look of confusion on Niam’s face, she explained. “Trista and Jase are cousins. Pyotr and Illyana are siblings. They and Colette are the only ones who know that I’m not only pagan but also have just finished my first year training as a Druid.” “Comhghairdeas! You must be proud of yourself.” Trista looked at Niam. “We didn’t even ask whether you’d be offended by this. I’m sorry.” Niam patted Trista’s hand as they all sat down at the kitchen table. “I’m not in the least offended. My brothers and I were each born in sacred Celtic areas. My parents and extended family made sure we knew our ancient heritage as we grew up. I’m considered a pagan as well. Trust me, it’s nice to be able to chat casually about Beltane or Samhain without people rolling their eyes or sighing heavily.” Trista nodded. “Kirstie patiently explained her beliefs to us as a group one night when we were getting close. Though I know, sometimes she feels, like most of us don’t completely understand, we are trying.” Kirstie’s eyes opened wide. “I’ve never-“ Trista smiled as she got up to get more drinks. “No, you’ve never said anything, Kirstie, but we noticed how you’d get quiet sometimes. We also have been quietly supporting you when you got ready to make your dedication. None of us wanted to cause any problems so we were waiting to hear what happened. I told the others you passed.” Kirstie looked at her friend in disbelief. Had she really thought her friends wouldn’t understand? It seemed almost a lifetime ago, though it was only about a week or so. “You guys are truly the best.” Trista snorted. “Just remember that when you walk in on the surprise party next Friday.” “No. No parties. You know how I hate surprise parties.” Trista looked to Niam for help. “Explain to the woman that she knows of it, thus it’s no longer a surprise and that she best show up.” Niam roared with laughter. “She’s got you there, Kirstie.” Taking a glass of lemonade from Trista, he inclined his head in thanks. “Would you like me to make sure that she makes it to the party?” “Would you please? Otherwise, she’ll find a way to get out of it. We wanted to make sure we did it during her vacation.” Kirstie waved her fork in the air before stabbing a slice of steak. “Hey, don’t I get any say so here?” Trista and Niam chorused, “No!”

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“Damn. You both just sound too chipper on that,” Kirstie teased. The meal conversation was filled with laughter and gentle teasing. Niam liked seeing how Trista was recovering and growing stronger with Kirstie’s help and nudging. Every so often he’d feel a brush of psychic momentum and knew Kirstie had sent a subtle burst of healing to her friend. He would send some of his own at that time to reinforce what Kirstie was sending. She truly cared for her friends in more than one way. Hearing more on the antics of Kirstie and her friends helped him to get to know the woman and he liked what he was learning. Once supper was finished, they all helped clean up and put the dishes in the automatic dishwasher. Trista yawned and Kirstie’s eyes glanced to the clock. “I can’t believe it’s almost eleven. You gonna be up to a workout tomorrow, Tris?” “Yeah if I get some sleep.” She gave Niam a spontaneous hug which he returned. “Good night, Niam. Thank you for coming here tonight. Between you and Kirstie, I feel I’m starting to get over everything.” Trista hugged her friend then left them to go to retire to her room. Kirstie looked at the tall man. “Come to my study or sit in the living room?” “Wherever you’re most comfortable is fine with me.” Kirstie led him to her study. The pale grey walls and dark green trim and curtains made him instantly feel at ease. “Nice room. You’ve set it up well. I can feel myself instinctively relaxing to the color combinations.” “Thanks, I worked hard on learning colors and their powers. My study is probably the best example I have of how to use the power of colors.” Kirstie blushed at that comment as Niam sat down on the hunter green couch, she took her seat in her recliner. “So how did it go tonight?” Niam sighed. “Not a complete sweep, but we got all but two. There were discs there. I’m thinking the discs were placed in order to keep tabs on the women. To mark them for some future purpose. I just wish I knew how come I couldn’t find the other two discs.” Kirstie thought on it. “Where did you find the symbols?” “Usually under a desk or near where the woman was raped.” Kirstie bit her lower lip. Then she closed her eyes only to open them up. “This is going to sound very weird, but all of the women were treated with rape kits, right?” Niam nodded and said nothing. He continued to let her run with her train of thought. “Niam, were they actually looked at? To see what damage was done or if he left anything in them?” The silence in the room was almost overwhelming. Niam looked at the chestnut haired beauty and

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smiled softly. “I think I know where you’re going with this.” “Well that disc we found in Trista’s office felt weird. Plus, there’s the fact that Trista told me privately that it felt like he had something on him when he entered her and it wasn’t a condom.” “Dammit, I don’t know. But I can find out.” Whipping out his cell phone, he dialed a number and waited as the line rang. When it was picked up, Niam didn’t bother to announce himself. “Question about the victims, were they examined internally with a scope to make sure nothing was implanted within them?” Niam listened carefully and made motions. Kirstie leaned over and grabbed a pad of paper and a pencil, handing them both to him. He smiled gratefully and began taking notes. “I know I’m asking the weirdest question and it’s late, but the topic came up.” Kirstie mouthed at him, “I had the doctors scope Trista while she was unconscious and they found nothing.” “I know with Ms. Caffrey there was nothing, but the doctors had scoped her on the request of her friend.” He jotted down whatever he was being told. “Well, do me a favor and ask both Julianne and Deborah to go back and be scoped. They had tremendous nightmares and I’ve got a feeling that if they’re asked if they felt something weird with the rapist when he entered them, they’ll say yes.” The voice on the other end spoke a bit while Niam looked at Kirstie with a look of exasperation. “Detective O’Connor?” Niam nodded. Kirstie made “gimme” motions at the phone. Readily, he handed her the phone. Let her have at him for once. “Detective O’Connor? This is Kirstie Blake. Listen, I’m the one who mentioned this to Dr. Maraigh. Trista had commented about how the guy felt when he raped her. I know it sounds something medieval, but I have a gut feeling on this. They found nothing in Trista, however, there were scratches as if something did irritate her internal tissues.” “Miss Blake, you don’t understand-“ “I do understand that it’s possible that the rapist might’ve left a clue inside two women and you’re being difficult. Have I summed this up well enough?” Kirstie listened and blinked rapidly then handed the phone to Niam. “He’d like to speak with you. I think he’s pissed.” Grinning with Kirstie, Niam took back the phone. The triple death would be easier to handle than what he knew he was going to hear out of Micheal Padraig’s mouth. Yes, he was consorting with a victim’s friend and allowing her to help. Steeling himself, Niam brought the earpiece to his ear.

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Chapter Five “Dóthain, Micheal Padraig,” Niam stated firmly. “Enough? You have the nerve to tell me ‘enough’?” Micheal Padraig’s voice rose slightly. “Do you have any clue what danger you’re putting her in by letting her help?” “Tuigim, dar leat. However, you have to realize that Kirstie has been helping Trista to recover. More importantly, of all of the victims, Trista alone was unaffected last night by nightmares.” The pause on the other end made Niam gloat with satisfaction as he felt Micheal Padraig realize the import of his words. When Kirstie had broached the idea, he wanted to dismiss it until he realized that her touch was that of a first level druid. Though most of the druid training was based upon reconstruction, he recognized the training of hers from someone who had long studied the ancient ways and had family from that time. Moreover, it would explain why the two other women were still having trouble with their recoveries. By having something remain from the rapist, he’d be able to influence them and their recovery. Trista Caffrey was luckier than she realized by having Kirstie at her back. “Dammit, Niam. You’re putting Kirstie Blake at risk.” “Go deimhin, certainly, you might think that. In actuality, I’m keeping her out of harm’s way.” He ignored Kirstie’s pointed gaze. “By working with me, she’s not out on her own investigating. Or is that what you want, cúntóir?” The sigh on the other end of the phone was one of resignation. “Keep her and Trista Caffrey safe, mo mhúinteoir. There are things being hinted at on the streets.” Niam grunted. “I’ve heard some of the things, including the fact that those like my brother are congregating near here.” “Yes. Remind me why we do this?” Micheal Padraig’s voice was harsh and wearied. “Óir, if we did not cuir cogadh ar Taranis and his minions, we would be blood guilty of denying meá.” “You’re right. I’m sorry for my outburst. I’ll get the information and get back to you. I’ll bring both ladies in for a check. Thank gods we have some contacts in the hospitals in order to pull this off. Good night, Niam.” “Slán, Micheal Padraig.” Niam closed the cell phone. His eyes rose to meet Kirstie’s. “He’s not happy to know you’re working with me, but the other option is even worse. We just need to be careful on how we do this.” “You’re right. What does ‘meá’ mean? My mentor has used it, but I’ve not been able to learn exactly what it means.”

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Niam captured Kirstie’s hand and pulled her to sit next to him. As he cradled her in his arms, he explained. “Meá is like the ancient Egyptian word ma’at which means balance or scales. The concept is more than just a regular balance though. It’s the concept by which the ancient order of droi lived by. They were neither good nor evil, though many did choose to do good. The laws of balance were always in effect. We do not believe in the Rede that the Wiccans follow, you know this, right?” “Yes. It has to do with the fact that sometimes we have to punish or harm someone when they deliberately do a wrong in order to redress balance, right?” “Exactly. That’s what the concept of meá is composed of doing, balancing and redressing balance as needed.” Kirstie slid her hand on his cheek and gazed into his dark amber eyes. “You’re droi too, aren’t you? That’s how come you know this.” Niam nodded. “Yes, I am. Have been for many years.” “Wow. Things make more sense when I think of you in terms of being a druid.” Her words cut into him deeply. His eyes never left her face. “Like what?” “The emotions you bring out in me. How I feel reenergized in your presence. Protected and safe, yet able to handle myself at the same time.” His hand cupped the back of her head and pulled her close, their lips meeting. “I feel the attraction between us as well. The power we seem to both share. Kiss me, Kirstie.” She speared her fingers deep in his silky dark hair that looked almost totally black in the low light in the room. Her lips moved over his as her tongue darted out, tracing his lips. As his mouth open, she slid her tongue deep in his mouth, letting their tongues duel for supremacy. His hands slid down her back, urging her closer against him until she shifted so her femininity pressed against the bulge in his jeans. A low needy moan escaped from the back of her throat. Male hips grounded against hers increasing both the intensity of the moment and the building desire. She wanted this man badly and now she realized how much he wanted her. His hand slipped to the front, slid under her Capri pants, and followed the edge of her leotard down where her body emanated heat. “I want to touch you, Kirstie.” “Please, Niam,” she whimpered, arching back a bit giving him access. Deftly, his fingers slipped under the leotard feeling the damp curls that covered her mons. His body tightened in desire as one curl tried to wrap itself around one finger. Pushing into the cleft, he stroked the wet folds with a deliberate lightness, letting Kirstie’s whimpers roll over him. Her soft, wet folds beckoned him to go further and his fingers found her clitoris. It was round and seemed to reach for

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him. As he flicked the nub and then pressed on it, Kirstie bit back a moan as her hips arched upwards. “Niam, please,” she begged, her voice a husky moan. “Please what, Kirstie?” She shook her head, her hair swirling around her face as the elastic fell from her hair. “I don’t know, I just need you to touch me more.” “Like this?” Niam asked as his free hand cupped her rounded breast through the leotard’s fabric, his thumb caressing her puckered nipple. “Oh yes,” she hissed in pleasure. Her hands sneaked down to unbutton his jeans and undid his zipper, releasing the pressure. A moan escaped Niam as her hands slid beneath his briefs and caressed his erection. His fingers tugged at her clit again and then trailed down to where the entrance to her womb lay. Deftly they slid into her causing Kirstie to gasp and tighten her hands around him. “Kirstie,” he moaned. In synchronistic movement, they kept touching each other until Kirstie leaned forward, biting his shoulder as she moaned out her orgasm. His followed as he captured her lips. As his seed spilled out onto her hands, he felt himself being drained yet at the same time, being slightly refilled as part of Kirstie’s energy was absorbed into him by their kiss. Reluctantly, he pulled back, sliding his fingers out of her tight sheath. “Kirstie, I didn’t mean-“ Her blue eyes glared at him. “Don’t you dare apologize.” He smiled at her ferocity. “I’m not apologizing for what happened, only that I wish it wasn’t so late and I didn’t have to work. Otherwise, I’d stay the night and pleasure you longer.” She blinked at him in shock as her mouth opened into a perfect “O”. “Oh my.” “I meant what I said last night. There’s something between us and fighting it would take more strength than it’s worth,” he murmured as she traced his lips with a finger. Nipping it, he then slid it into his mouth and suckled it. “I can resist anything except temptation. The best way to defeat temptation is to yield to it,” Kirstie whispered back. Seeing the question in his eyes, she smiled. “It’s something that my mentor says when she’s sexually frustrated.” “You know when your teacher is sexually frustrated?” Kirstie chuckled. “If you knew my teacher, you’d know that she makes no secret except those that must be kept. Her sexual frustration isn’t one of them.” “This teacher sounds like she might be a match against Finn or Miach.” “Oh?” Kirstie looked interested. “What makes you think that?” Niam’s eyes lit with unholy glee. “Finn and Miach both try their damnedest to not give into their

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carnal needs much less anything beyond the bare minimum to survive.” She nodded. “You sure you don’t know my teacher? That sounds like her. She says that ever since Samhain, she’s been plagued by dreams that make casual sex intolerable. I was almost afraid she’d not be here for my ceremony. She had been in Ireland and in Britain when they made the discovery of those rare Iceni tribe burial remains.” Niam blinked at Kirstie. Miach had been there as well. “Really? What’s her name?” “Among the nemeton, she goes by Ael Morganna. Her given name is Riana Ael Sinclair. Those of the grove adore her, including myself and Colette.” “Is that Dr. Riana Sinclair from the University of South Florida as well as a link to Sheffield University in Britain?” Kirstie’s eyes opened wide. “Yes, how did you know?” Niam snickered happily. “Dr. Sinclair is known to most of us in the family. Miach, Finn, and Elathan refuse to acknowledge her existence. She knows too much but at the same time, she’s not a classic looking Celt.” Kirstie laughed as she slid next to Niam on the couch. She reached down and grabbed her towel and wiped her hands then handed it to him. As he wiped himself, he looked at Kirstie in askance. “How do I explain Riana? You know she is an American, right? Well, she also has a mixed heritage, though she does specialize in Celtic history. She’s Lithuanian, Dutch and Welsh. I think that they resent the fact that she pushes the theory that the Celts were originally from the Baltic area based upon comparison of the ancient pagan religion in Lithuania to what’s known about the Celts.” Niam looked thoughtful. “Could be. It’s either that or the fact that she’s uncannily accurate in some of the things she says are just guesses.” “Huh?” Niam shook his head and smiled at Kirstie. “Nothing, just a rambling thought. I’m getting tired. I should get on home. I had a long day today and if I know Micheal Padraig, he won’t hesitate to call me in a few hours.” He pulled Kirstie close against him. “I know we’ve not talked on intimate things, but I’d like to spend time with you.” She smiled shyly back at him. “I’d like that too. When I first saw you, you reminded me of my dream I’ve had over the years. The only thing I could remember for the longest time was the deep amber eyes that are so like yours.” Niam kissed her deeply and thoroughly before releasing her from his embrace. “Well, hopefully

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tonight you’ll dream of me making love to you.” “Niam!” “Perfect.” He smiled impishly at her. “That’s how I want to hear you saying my name, but with a bit more passion and less scolding.” Kissing her nose, he stood up. “Come walk me to the door and lock up for the night, mo milis.” Once she had locked the door after he kissed her once more and left, Kirstie leaned there and touched her lips. Had he really called her “my sweet”? Smiling, Kirstie made the way to her bedroom to change for bed. As she fell asleep, her thoughts were of a man who made sure both she and her friend were adequately protected under his watchful gaze before going to his own home.

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Chapter Six Niam looked at askance at the light that glinted from his home. Though there were times when he’d leave a light on if he were going to be out late, it was never the one in his study. It meant that either one of his brothers came for a visit or it was someone searching for something of value. They wouldn’t know that there was nothing in the study. Everything of great value was kept in a safe area that wasn’t obvious. Cautiously and stealthily, he entered his home from the back door. Easing his way towards the study, he could hear quiet muttering by the would-be intruder. He recognized the cadence as the uttered curses became quite inventive. Niam lounged against the doorframe looking at his brother who was rifling through his personal files. “Finding anything interesting?” Miach hesitated, then turned without a hint of guilt. “Nothing substantial about the case you’re working on. Where are your notes?” Niam shook his head at his oldest brother as he shooed him out of his favorite leather chair. “You could’ve emailed me or something. Why are you here?” “Finn and Cuin sent me. They think that something is happening around you. Dylan told me to inform you that Siobhan sends her love and she hates him.” Miach’s blue eyes looked mildly amused. “Do I dare ask why Siobhan hates Dylan?” Niam chortled as he explained. Both brothers laughed at Dylan’s situation. Then Miach sobered. “Cuin thinks that Macha has centered upon you as the first recipient.” “Recipient?” Miach sighed as he pulled out a dark green large crane bag from around his neck. Removing it, he handed it to Niam. The weight was not negligible, but the quizzical look didn’t abate until Niam opened it. “Oh shit. Is that what I think it is?” “It is.” It was a silver torc with sculpted animal heads. One was a raven, the other a dragon. In the light of the room, the two animals seemed to possess a life of their own. The silver tube had carving of Celtic knots along the length. “Morrigu’s sacred torc. I never thought I’d see it again once you told us what had happened that day on hallow ground. Does this mean what I think it might?” “Finn thinks you’ll be the first to receive the chance at being released from the curse. As The Morrigan’s choice so long ago, the divination says you will be the first to be offered the chance of love.”

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Niam shook his head. “I don’t see how that’s possible. Not with Taranis’ minions on such active status here.” Miach nodded. “I know it seems that way, but when have you ever known The Morrigan to ever do something because it was easy, when it was just as likely for her to help get it out in the open, the fighting?” “Aye, that’s true. I hadn’t thought about it in those terms.” Miach looked a bit peaked. Niam’s eyes looked over his elder brother and saw the tiredness and the slight look that came from trying to remain substantial. “You know you don’t have to hold your firm grip on being in solid form with me.” “Go raibh maith agat, Niam.” With that, Miach whispered a word and his form seemed to suddenly to thin out until it was almost ghostly in form. The eldest brother’s body seemed to relax more now that he was back into his “phase” state as the other Wraith Walkers called it. “Does it hurt still to force your body to be corporeal at night?” “Not as much as it did in the past. It gets easier, but the cost remains about the same.” Miach’s voice was still a bit tight with the price of forcing his body from its natural, nocturnal state. “You want something to drink or eat while I pull my notes out for you to read?” “Some water would be great. I’ll tag along if you don’t mind.” Niam chuckled. “I don’t mind. Come along, Casper.” A hand smacked the back of his head at the comment. “Ouch! That hurt, Miach.” “I’m not Casper the friendly ghost,” his brother retorted without heat. “Sorry, it was something Cadrus said once and sometimes-“ “Yeah, yeah, yeah. Be glad I don’t call you Vlad.” “Ooooh, a testy ghost at that,” Niam chuckled as they reached the kitchen. After he poured his brother and himself two glasses of water, he retrieved his files from above the refrigerator. They sat in silence while Miach scanned through the documents and photographs. When he was finished the two brothers looked at each other. They both knew the score on what was going on. “He’s got a link in the police force somewhere, Niam. Micheal Padraig could be at risk. I need to speak to your cúntóir. Twice now he’s put off speaking to me.” Niam blinked and looked at Miach for confirmation. “Micheal Padraig refused to speak to you in person or on the phone?” “Aye. It makes me very suspicious, Niam.” Niam ran his fingers through his hair and let out a troubled sigh. “That’s not like Micheal Padraig. If anything, he complains he’s going to tell on me to you. What the fuck is going on, Miach?”

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Miach shrugged, his countenance darkening with a sobering thought. “Is it possible that he’s been turned towards Taranis?” Niam violently shook his head as his hand slammed down on the kitchen table. “No. I’d have known. He’s still one of my main food supplies. There is only so much he’s able to hide from me considering the energy he’s shared with me.” “Dammit, Niam. It’s the only thing that makes sense. He’s either become a turncoat or he’s doing something he knows we’d rip him a new asshole over.” “I’d vote for the latter, not the former.” “Let us hope that, mo deartháir. I best get going. Granted being a ghost has some benefits, including travel, but if I’m not home by daylight, I’m stuck by normal transport wherever I am at sunrise.” The brothers hugged each other and clasped forearms. Niam watched Miach pass through the door without any problems as he sat down. Could it be possible that my cúntóir was indeed trying to help the rapist? Or was Micheal Padraig trying to do something that could get himself killed? I need to find out and soon before the rapist strikes again. With those troubling thoughts, Niam himself went to bed. He only hoped that in the land of dreams he’d be able to find some answers. In his hand was Morrigu’s torc. It was not leaving his side until he had the time to test it the way they’d all been taught. Could she be my release?

*

*

*

Morning came bright and shining in Silver Springs as Kirstie stretched as the sunlight filtered into her room. Music filtered in from the living room. “Listen to your heart…” Kirstie smiled at the Roxette song. She sang along with the lyrics as she did her morning stretches. As she changed, Kirstie heard Trista singing along. A smile creased her face at the happy sound from her friend. This is what she had wanted to hear again- Trista happy. Though she knew it wasn’t going to stay like this always, it was a step in the right direction. Trista was seeing it was possible to find happiness and contentment again. A yawn curled Kirstie’s toes as it exited her body. Even with the sleep she had, she was still feeling a bit tired. Must have been the release I had. Gods, I’ve never had an orgasm that strong that didn’t include physical intercourse before. “Knock, knock,” a voice called out. “I’ve brought you some breakfast. Take a seat on your bed,

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madam.” Kirstie turned and saw Trista enter with a bed tray filled with breakfast goodies. She dove for her bed and pulled up the covers happily. “Ooooh, breakfast in bed. I’m so not refusing.” Trista laughed as she sat on the edge of the bed, placing the tray over Kirstie’s lap. “I don’t think any of us would. How did you sleep last night once Niam left?” “Good. It was almost as if he was nearby though I know he wasn’t.” “He’s a druid like you, isn’t he?” Kirstie nodded as she took a bite of a cheese Danish. “Yes, but definitely further along the path than I am.” Trista hit the stereo remote she had in her hand as David Bowie’s “Fame” came on. Both girls happily sang along as they ate their breakfast. This was a good day for them both and they just knew it. They even got up and danced around the room to the mix of songs on Trista’s CD.

*

*

*

Meanwhile, Niam groaned. His dreams had been plagued by various memories and other unknown quantities as he held the sacred torc. One in particular made no sense to him unless it was in conjunction with one of his brothers. It was during the time of Prince Edward, also known as the Black Prince of Wales due to his black armor. Watching A Knight’s Tale too many times might’ve been the reason for the unusual soundtrack. But the timeframe allowed him to know that it had been Miach or Finn who had lived this particular memory. It was after the final night of the tourney in Avignon. Prince Edward and his loyal knights had entered the pavilion where the feasting and music played. In the pouch was the sacred torc; Niam’s hand patted it reassuringly. Surely, the Lady Phillipa was a worthy woman to wear the torc as his intended. He loved her though she knew not the truth about his skills. As he stepped forward, Lady Phillipa’s maidservant caught his attention and he glanced to where she pointed. The lady waited for him at the side. As he excused himself from Prince Edward’s presence, he sought out the woman he hoped to wed and end the years of loneliness. “You are here, milord. I wish to speak to you before the feasting commences full swing,” her voice was low and melodious, pure sin. “Yes, milady. I have something I wish to share with you as well.” His hand gripped the hunter green crane bag and felt the reassuring shape in it. Her hand slid over the fabric of Niam’s shirt. The look in her eyes was something unexpected. It

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was a mixture of longing, sadness, and something he couldn’t quite identify. “Speak your mind, Lady Phillipa. I am ever here to listen to your words.” “Sir Micah, I must tell you that my father has already made marriage arrangement between myself and Sir Michael of Avignon. I was informed of his decision. He had tried to wait for you, but as you did not approach him after your win in the sword competition, he felt you were not going to ask for my hand.” Her blue eyes had unshed tears. “I told him to wait a bit longer, but he could not as Sir Michael had been pushing for a while now.” Nodding, Niam felt his brother’s heartache. This explained why Miach had given up hope on ever finding even a touch of happiness. He spoke and could hear his brother’s voice. “Phillipa, I want you happy. I had to ask leave of Prince Edward and make known my intent. He has just given me permission to ask your father. But now, now it’s to be announced here, isn’t it?” “Yes.” He took her hand and kissed her palm, then caressed her cheek. “I would’ve happily loved you for as long as we had been able. I wish you happiness, Lady Phillipa.” With that, Niam strode out of the pavilion as Sir Michael made the announcement. Prince Edward turned to see his knight leave the tent while others applauded. With a quiet word, Edward left to go to his dear friend and confidant. “Micah, hold.” Niam stopped in his tracks. “Yes, your highness.” “Come off it, you know me better than many. The formality between us does not suit.” Niam gazed into the deep brown eyes of the man he pledged fealty. At that moment, he finally understood why Miach had always defended Edward. Within the Prince, the feudal king of Gascony was a soul similar to theirs. Edward, though not a Celt by birth, was sovereign and more. Fighter and wise man was the man before him. The Black Prince of Wales was a man to be trusted. “You’re right, Edward. I’m sorry. My head is not my own.” “And your heart has been returned to you. I share your sorrow.” “But you have your wife, Joan.” Edward smiled softly. “Yes and I do adore her. However, she wasn’t my first love. I lost her, my true love, when my family wouldn’t see fit for me to marry a Cymry woman. She possesses my heart always. One day, I will go for her, she lives at Anglesey I’m told.” Internally, Niam made the connection of the issues in Wales and this prince who loved a Cymry. The woman of Wales had to been the daughter of a chieftain. He knew that Anglesey would one day

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become part of Gwynedd County. Such is the circle of life as it occurs, from the time of Edward I onward. “What is her name, milord?” “Rhiannon. Her name is Rhiannon ap Gruffydd . Of any, she could make me believe in the ancient gods of our land, Micah. She was a wild creature and able to defend herself and those with her the day we met. For months I courted her, yet in the end, I lost her because of her father’s refusal to ally himself to Britain.” “Perhaps one day, you’ll be able to find her and win her to your side.” “One could hope, Micah. However, in the scheme of things, I shall make my rule known throughout Cymry as well. Your heart though dented by this will recover. One day, you’ll find the woman meant for you and I shall assist you in any way you need in order to make sure you get her.” “Thank you, Edward. I don’t know if that day shall ever come, but if it does, I would be honoured.” Niam laid there on his bed, tasting the remnants of that last dream. So, my dear brother had once sought to see if there was any chance of happiness outside of the bounds set by Morrigu. Interesting. Yet, in his heart, he knew now why his brother oft spoke how it would be impossible to seek for some kind of love outside the bonds that Morrigu had provided. He had tried to find love and lost even the remote chance of limited happiness. Knowing Miach, he had never attempted it again. Stretching and opening his eyes, they caught sight of the torc as it was raised over his head. He had slept with it in his hand the entire night. “Are you responsible for the dreams and memories, Torc de Morrigu?” The heads at the end of the torc seemed to smile at him, giving him pause. If the torc was gifted as they were told, then it was possible. Closing his eyes, he called to mind Kirstie. As he did, the torc warmed in his hand. His eyes opened and he noticed the raven glowing. He recalled what Miach had shared with his brothers when he received the torc.

“If the woman is the daughter of The Morrigan, then the torc will react to it. She must bear the mark of the goddess. The mark will glow in concert with the torc. If they don’t, then she’s not your release.” The brothers all looked at one another. Donal was the only one to voice what they were thinking. “Why tell us this, now? They were all destroyed, the daughters of Morrigu.” Miach’s blue gaze was filled with many emotions, none of them voiced. “Because we don’t know if The Morrigan might in fact bring back the daughters, her servants. Though none of them would in fact be her literal daughter as was the case with Morrigana, she might one day renew her priestesshood. In that

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event, we might have salvation from the fate we live now.”

Niam placed the torc back in its sacred pouch. Putting it in his safe, he sighed. When it was time, he would present it to Kirstie. First things first though. He had a rapist to catch and a cúntóir to question. He didn’t notice the torc glow as his thoughts lingered on Kirstie as he made his way to the shower. Time was of the essence; the torc would have its turn when other issues were dealt with first.

*

*

*

Kirstie finished her workout and headed for the shower when the phone rang. Grabbing it while Trista continued her own workout, she answered breathlessly, “Hello?” “Did I catch you at a bad time?” Kirstie smiled at Niam’s voice. “No, I just finished my daily workout. I ran to the phone before Trista decided to get it. What’s going on?” “Nothing much, I just wanted to check in before I start my late day. I’m on my way to work and I wanted to know what you were doing tonight?” Kirstie grinned as she leaned against the wall. “Nothing major. Jase is coming to take his cousin out for dinner and a movie. What do you have planned?” “I’ve got office until about seven. Then once I’m done there, I need to see Detective O’Connor. That’ll take only an hour. Want to meet me at Pad Thai for nine? We’ll have a late supper and talk?” “Sure. Trista might end up spending the night at her cousin’s. Jase is good about watching her.” “Good. Then make plans to have an overnight bag. You’re coming home with me.” He made his goodbyes and she hung up the phone. Overnight bag, here I come. Hallelujah! Who knew that orgasms could be so addictive, much less the man? Especially him? “Trista, I’m going to go shower.” “Who was it on the phone?” “Niam. He’s going to take me out for supper tonight.” Trista’s whoop filled the room. “You’ve got a date! It’s about time. He’s good for you, Kirstie. I trust him.” “I do too. Strange, but true.” Trista came towards her friend. Their matching blue eyes met. “Do you think it’s because he’s like you?”

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Kirstie tilted her head. “It’s more than just him being a Druid, Trista. There’s something about him that inspires trust. Ever since he rescued me, I’ve felt drawn to him.” Trista nodded and hugged her friend. “I think he likes you too. For what it’s worth, I hope you both go for this and see what happens. I like how you smile when you talk about him. You’ve not looked this happy for a long time, my friend.” Hugging her friend, Kirstie did a slight dance step. “I agree. I’m happier now than I have in a long time. He makes me feel peace that I suspect my father does for my mother. I could fall for Niam if I’m not careful.” Trista nodded. “Then fall cautiously, Kirstie, but give yourself that chance.”

*

*

*

The rest of the day sped by. By the time Jase showed up at seven to take his cousin to dinner and a movie, Kirstie and Trista had managed to primp themselves for a night out and make them both feel so much better than they had in days. Kirstie hugged Jase. “Thanks for this, Jase. She needs to know you’re still here for her no matter what.” “Indeed. She looks so much better than she did the night it happened. You’ve been using your gifts, haven’t you?” Kirstie’s eyes opened wide as she nodded. Jase smiled and punched her lightly in the shoulder. “Thanks, Kirstie. Trista has a true friend in you. As for your talents, it’s part of who you are. We might not broadcast we know about them, but we do notice that we heal faster when you know about things. Her bruises are just about gone completely and you’re the reason. Thanks, my friend.” Jase took Trista by the arm and escorted her out. “You look great, Trista. Maybe we can pretend-“ “Jase!” “It was just a thought,” he joked as he led Trista towards the elevators. Kirstie watched them leave and smiled at the easy camaraderie the cousins shared. She was glad that Trista agreed to go out with Jase. It would start her feeling comfortable interacting with other people. Humming, she closed the door and went to change before her date with Niam at the Pad Thai restaurant. “What will I wear?” Kirstie flung through her wardrobe and wondered what a person wears to a dinner that’ll lead back to a hot, sensual rendezvous later on. She tossed a shirt and jeans into the bag on her bed while she struggled over the idea of wearing pants or the new dress she had bought a couple weeks before all this had happened. Smiling, she decided to take the risk and wear the dress. The halter dress was a beautiful dark blue that matched her eyes. Kirstie had been wary because

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the dress barely hit below mid-thigh, but the jersey material clung to her curves and emphasized her womanly attributes quite nicely. Tying the ties, Kirstie looked at herself in the full-length mirror in her room. The slightly shiny material caressed her skin and gave her slight tan a boost. Leaving her hair down, she brushed it to allow the natural waviness in her hair to be free. She put on the barest amount of makeup, then put on her silver jewelry that had a slightly Celtic feel to it. After slipping into the sandals that matched the dress, she felt ready for her date with Niam. Setting the timer on her lights, she left, with her bag in her hand. Though nervous, Kirstie was determined to enjoy herself, regardless of what might happen in the long run. She learned her lesson about expecting too much. For now, she’d go with the flow of whatever came her way.

*

*

*

Niam slammed Micheal Padraig against the wall in the detective’s home. “What are you up to, Micheal Padraig?” Micheal shook his head and wouldn’t answer the Druid. Niam’s eyes flashed in the light of the room. “I’ve nothing to tell you, Niam. Why are you being like this?” Niam lifted his student off his feet. “Listen to me, Micheal Padraig and listen well. Miach was here last night.” Seeing the look of fear in Micheal Padraig’s eyes was enough to keep him going. “He informed me that you had refused twice to speak to him, the head Brehon of our grove. Why?” Micheal licked his lips and tried to keep control of the escalating fear that was creeping into his eyes. Niam waited. “I’ve nothing of importance to say to Miach.” “Lies. You dare lie to me, but you know you dare not lie to Miach. He came here last night while you slept, Micheal Padraig. Can’t you feel his essence that he left behind? Or did you leave the house so quickly this morning because you dare not face what you would be forced to recognize?” Niam’s face changed from anger to disappointment as he lowered the man to the ground. Micheal Padraig readjusted his shirt. “You don’t understand, Niam. Of all of you, you understand the least for all your abilities.” Niam sighed heavily. “Then explain it to me so I do understand. Tell me why you hid information from me. Show me why you decided to do things on your own without my help.” That’s what irked him the most. In his study that morning, he found two notes from Miach. The first was the result of him visiting Micheal Padraig as the mortal slept. The second note was in regards the torc. Right now, the first item was of great importance.

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“You Maraighs always put yourselves at risk, regardless on how we feel. We, as in the cúntóir. Of all the brothers, you are the worst, Niam. You feel, you sense, yet through it all, in all the lessons you imparted to me, you never once allowed me to do more fully what I’m capable of. I turned down a chance with the FBI because of you and your needs,” Micheal Padraig paced the floor before Niam. His eyes bored into Niam’s. “When I tried asking for more, in order to prove myself to you and to the grove, you always denied me the risks. Then you’d turn around and put yourself at risk. That hurt, Niam Maraigh. My own mentor didn’t trust in me enough to do the job completely.” “That’s not true.” “Then why did you not let me do more in other investigations, Niam? Explain to me why it was rational for you to put yourself and your brothers at risk and not myself, an expendable cúntóir?” Niam lowered his eyes and sighed resignedly. “You’re right, Micheal Padraig. I oft placed myself in danger’s way. Yet, you forget, I’m almost immortal and you are not. Risking your life would not win anything.” Micheal poked Niam in the shoulder, forcing the man to look at him. “You are not immortal, Niam. Didn’t Samhain and Macha’s appearance prove that to you? Dammit, you’re not the only one who can take risks and go into places that others cannot. I might not be blessed with the full skills of what you and your brothers are, but I am a full-fledged Druid. Have I not walked my path? Have I not shown my merit?” “Yes you have, time and again, Micheal Padraig. Yet, in this, you’d risk not only your life, but also that of your girlfriend and those whom you serve as an officer of the law. Did you not realize that the damn rapist was placing symbols of Taranis within his victims in order to keep marginal control of them in order to feed the storm god’s need for power and war?” Dropping Niam’s gaze, Micheal Padraig turned slightly. “I didn’t. When you asked me, it was so far fetched, yet I asked the two women to see one of our doctors. She found the discs almost embedded completely along the vaginal wall of each woman. I was sicker than sick when I realized that I’d been deceived in this way, Niam. What more do you want from me?” Niam clasped the man’s shoulder and squeezed slightly. “The truth, Micheal Padraig. That’s all Miach or I ever wanted from you. You could’ve appealed to Miach regarding my behavior. I was protecting you as well. I remember your uncle who helped me prior to his death. When he died risking his neck to find me some information, I vowed never to let any more of your family be hurt because of my actions. You are more skilled as well as better prepared than your uncle ever was, but I feared losing you like I lost him.” Micheal Padraig’s voice dropped low. “I’m not Donovan. It hurt that you wouldn’t let me do what

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he did for you. I heard the stories from my parents and from his sisters. How that Donovan was as much as a risk taker and co-partner for you and that I’m not.” Niam looked into the man’s eyes and the emotional barriers he and Micheal Padraig fell as the despair, pain, anger and more flowed through his body and psyche. Their eyes locked together, Niam’s rarely used power came to the fore with an alacrity that startled them both. Niam had always called this power of his “the Vulcan mindmeld” because of how similar it was to the Star Trek ability that Mr. Spock had possessed. Melding into the emotions and thoughts of Micheal Padraig, he began to see the extent of his involvement with the cult of Taranis, including that there was no backup of any kind for him. When it was done, Niam pulled back and stared hard into the eyes of his student and friend. “Dammit, Micheal Padraig, no backup? What were you thinking? Wait, you weren’t thinking.” “How many times did you get into things only to call me midway through or after the fact to come help clean up the mess, when I could better have served at your side?” Micheal responded dully, rubbing his temples where the pressure had been most fierce. Niam shoved Micheal back again and took a deep breath to calm himself. Inside, he knew Micheal Padraig was right. He took just as many risks without backup, but he also had extra abilities that his friend just didn’t possess. Rubbing his face, he sighed heavily. “Micheal Padraig, listen to me. You’re right, I do take risks and no, I’m not immortal, but pretty damn close.” His eyes locked on his friend’s. “You’re right, I’ve overprotected you. Honestly though, after losing Donovan, I didn’t want to lose you similarly. But this, you don’t even have police backup. If you do this, you have me or one of your family in on it. You’re going to face initiation soon and then your true loyalties will be made known.” His gaze followed Micheal Padraig’s hands, which constantly worked themselves into the various signs taught to him by the brothers Maraigh. Watching him form the signs for oak, lightning, and war, Niam knew that the reality was sitting in and it wasn’t particularly comfortable. Glancing at his watch, he realized he had to leave soon to make his date with Kirstie. His eyes caught the last signs for balance and love. “Do you realize you do our finger signs when you’re nervous or upset, Micheal Padraig?” Dark eyes met amber ones. A crooked grin followed. “Ah hell, that’s how you always knew when something had gone on.” The man inhaled deeply and exhaled. “They help me to refocus when I get worked up. Or to deal with something I know I’ve created. You will be near if and when they ask me to take the pledge?” “Definitely. Whoever it is that does your initiation has to be fairly high level and skilled. For every one within Taranis’ priesthood that we can knock out, it becomes a bit harder for Taranis to manifest in this realm. Just let me know when. If needed, I’ll bring one of the Wraith boys along.”

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Micheal Padraig snickered. “Wraith boys? I thought they were Caspers?” Niam chortled along. “Miach was not fond of the appellation and started calling Cadrus, Count Chocula. Needless to say, we shall avenge the new nickname.” Micheal stretched out his left hand towards him and Niam clasped the forearm. “Thanks, Niam.” “I gcónai, Micheal Padraig. I won’t be reachable tonight, but call me in the am, or beep me if it’s necessary.” Micheal’s dark brow lifted in query. “Oh? Are you actually going out with a cailín? Do I know her?” Niam smiled ferally. “Indeed you do. Time for me to go bed that cailín and figure out why she gets to me.” Micheal Padraig escorted him out, treating him like a young man on his first date. “You have protection, right?” “I’m not a child, Micheal.” The grin on Micheal’s face lit up the night. “Oh, no you’re not a child, but I’ve waited a long time to turn the tables on you. Póg her for me.” “I’ll tell Kirstie you asked about her. I won’t kiss her for you,” Niam retorted as he got into his Dodge Stealth and zoomed away, Micheal Padraig’s laughter carried upon the wind after him.

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Chapter Seven She saw him as he entered Pad Thai. His presence seemed to envelop her mind and senses. Kirstie looked over her right shoulder and saw him approach the table. He was jaw-dropping handsome and how he’d dressed tonight only emphasized the dark good looks. The snug slightly faded black jeans clung to muscular thighs and his sex causing her mouth to feel like cotton. His well-developed chest was hid under a forest green button down camp shirt that showed just a hint of skin where he hadn’t fastened the top two buttons. On his face played a delicious smile just for her. Her heart flipped at how he looked and how his gaze seemed to eat her up as well. “Gods, Kirstie, I want to skip this and just drag you home with me now. You look gorgeous.” His mouth swooped down upon hers for a fierce, sensual kiss. His tongue slid along hers as he pulled her against his chest, his hand sliding down her bare back. Reluctantly he pulled away and Kirstie reached out to caress his cheek. “You look fantastic yourself, Niam.” The young woman came over and asked them if they were ready to order. Niam turned to Kirstie as he slid next to her. “Let me order for us both?” “Sure.” In rapid, accent less Thai, Niam placed the order as the young woman grinned and jotted down everything. When he was done, he said a couple of other things to the dark haired lady, who giggled and scurried off. Cupping his cheek, Kirstie turned his head so they faced each other. “What did you say to her to make her run off like that?” Niam kissed her palm before answering. “I warned Mei that if she didn’t want me to toss you on the table as my dinner, then she best tell her brothers and fiancé to hurry up as I want to be alone with my lady soon.” Kirstie blushed at his words. “Are you often this forward?” She traced his cheekbones with her fingertips, just barely touching his skin. Unbelievable that she was actually stroking this man in public and soon they’d be lovers. Something in her heart seemed to come forth, but she didn’t look deep at it, but accepted it for whatever it was. Later she would see what the feeling was, but right now, it was more important to be aware of this man next to her. “Forward? On occasion when there’s something or someone I want badly enough. You’re like a duais that I’ve longed for and finally can have after waiting for so long.” Niam watched her eyes dilate as

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his words, her breath shorten as her desire became more evident. With his thumb, he stroked her cheek and pushed back her hair. “I know we’ve only known each other a short amount of time, but I want you, Kirstie.” His voice lowered as his mouth brushed her ear. “You don’t know how tempting a morsel you look tonight, your soft skin exposed and begging to be licked. How I want to lay you back and open up your legs and slide my tongue deep inside your pussy to taste your essence. I want to thrust my cock deep inside and here you scream.” Kirstie’s breath caught in her chest and a soft moan emerged at his words. Her fingers curled in her lap as a wave of desire slammed through her. Her body felt on fire. Breathlessly, she moaned, “Niam-“ His hand caught hers and with a flick of his wrist, he threw a bill on the table. “We’re leaving now.” As he rushed her to the door of the restaurant, he called out in Thai to the young man behind the cash register, who nodded and waved to them both. Niam’s hand held hers firm and escorted her to the dark green car that sat next to hers. Unlocking it, he sat her in the passenger seat. “Keys to your car, please,” he murmured against her ear. Kirstie fumbled but handed her keys to him. Niam retrieved her overnight bag and stowed it behind her. He helped her to fasten her seat belt, and then nimbly fastened his. The engine was a quiet roar and within moments, they were headed towards his home. Kirstie gazed at his profile, seeing the dark wanton desire echoed in her own body. Her hand touched his chest, causing him to suck in a deep breath. Feeling brave, she slid her hand downwards until her hand rested over the bulge in his jeans. Niam’s moan at her touch was all the encouragement she needed. Licking her lips, Kirstie leaned over and began unfastening his jeans. “Kirstie, what are you doing?” he groaned as she freed his hard erection. Her womanly smiled said it all. Then her rosy lips kissed the tip and Niam struggled for control of his senses. He quickly shifted the steering wheel, allowing Kirstie more room to do as she wished to him. Thank gods that they weren’t far from his home, otherwise, he doubted they’d get there in one piece. She flicked her tongue over the tip of his cock and inhaled his male fragrance. Her body shivered in anticipation. Slowly, Kirstie lowered her mouth, taking him as far as she could with his jeans bunched at the base, her hand squeezing him rhythmically. His ragged moan of pleasure caused her to begin to greedily taste all of him. Her mouth and hand slid up and down him, causing them both to moan in building desire. Quickly, the car turned left and the engine was killed. Niam jammed his fingers into her hair, guiding her as she sucked on him. Finally, after a few more moments, he gently pulled at her hair.

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“Dóthain!” Unfastening their restraints, he pulled her across into his lap and kissed her hungrily. When he pulled back, he knew his eyes had darkend with hunger, a hunger that he had never felt before. It wasn’t the feeding hunger or just lust. Niam wanted to possess Kirstie and mark her as his. The ferocity of his emotions caused him to take a couple of quick, shallow breaths. “We’re home. I have a bed waiting.” With a feline grace, Niam slid out of the car, still holding Kirstie. Cupping her bottom, he shifted her so her mound was against his naked erection. He groaned as he felt her dampness through her panties. Kirstie’s head fell back, she moaned as he ground himself against her, her legs wrapping around his waist. Niam moved and slammed the door as they headed for the front door of his home. Not pausing, he carried her to his master bedroom and laid her on his bed. The skirt of her dress was hitched up almost up around her waist, her dark lace panties teasing him with what lay underneath. Her hair lay around her shoulders and her breath was short, uneven causing her breasts to lift with each breath. Her puckered nipples were visible beneath the fabric. Niam unzipped his jeans the rest of the way and shucked them off along with his shoes. He then tugged the shirt off, revealing a muscular chest and a Celtic tribal tattoo along his left bicep. Kirstie’s eyes feasted upon his nakedness, until she reached Niam’s manhood. The sight of it jutting out proudly made her moan and wiggle. “Niam, please.” Niam chuckled. “Le do thoil? No, Kirstie, this is pléisiúr. Let me touch you and please you.” Kneeling down next to her, his hands quickly undid the tie to the halter, bringing the fabric down her skin slowly. Kirstie tried to reach up, but he stopped her with one of his hands. “Just wait. I want to be the one to expose your lovely broinns to my gaze.” The tips of the material glided over her nipples and she arched at the sensation. Niam bent over one globe, his hand cradling it and caressing the tender skin underneath. He slowly blew a breath of air across the nipple watching it respond. Then his tongue flicked out against the tight bud. “Niam!” “Yes, my dear?” “Please” Her breath was ragged with need. Dipping his head forward, his mouth captured her nipple deep and pulled on it. “Yes,” she hissed as her fingers slid through his hair, moving him closer. His tongue laved her as his teeth nipped at it, tugging and pulling the nipple erect. Niam suckled on it hard and Kirstie cried out. Switching his attention to the other breast, he continued to tease the wet breast with his fingers. He loved her scent, the softness of her rounded breasts. Just the feel of her skin

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aroused him to the point of pleasure and pain. He wanted to take her right then, but before that happened, he planned on tasting her honey sweetness. Shifting his position, Niam slid down her body lightly, letting his cock tease her mons as his tongue trailed down the exposed skin as he tugged down her dress. When the dress was bunched at her waist, he slowly circled her belly button with his tongue, darting it in and out. His hands slid the dress and her panties off and then slid her legs further apart as he settled in comfortably. Her skin glowed in the pale light of the room. As he licked over her right hip and then over her left, he noticed a small mark. “What’s this?” Kirstie opened her eyes. She looked down at his smiling face and grinned back. She noticed what he was asking about. “It’s a birthmark. My mom always called it a raven.” Niam stilled and looked again at it. Tracing it with a fingertip, it did indeed look like a stylized version of Morrigu’s familiar. Pushing away the thoughts of the torc and the implications, he kissed the mark then moved lower towards the thatch of curls that called to him. Her fragrance was haunting, a mix of woman and something that reminded him of the night air. His fingers parted her curls, exposing her wet, pink sex. Groaning, he licked down one side avoiding her clitoris. Then he licked down the other side. Small mewing sounds emerged from Kirstie’s throat as her hands played with his hair. With one finger, he traced around her clit and then the lips of her labia. “Niam. I. Can’t. Take. Much. More.” He chuckled, his mouth capturing her erect nub while two fingers slid into her wetness. Kirstie bowed up as her body shuddered in pleasure. As he suckled her, he thrust in his fingers deeper and then out, only to slide them in again. Her climax was hard and Kirstie cried out. Niam gave her no time to recover as his long fingers delved deep and hard in her pussy and his tongue did wicked things to her clitoris. The sensations kept hitting her wave after wave. Niam’s teeth rasped lightly over her clit then his tongue joined his fingers deep inside her. She screamed his name as she came a second time, her body arching upwards. Niam reached over and pulled out a small packet from his nightstand. Donning the condom swiftly, he set himself between her thighs. Her passion filled blue eyes looked into his. He grasped her hands and with one hard thrust entered her soft, wet sheath. They both moaned when he filled her. Niam braced himself above her and started to withdraw until only the tip remained inside her then flexed his hips, sending his cock deep within her. Wrapping her legs around his waist, Kirstie kissed along Niam’s jaw, as her fingers found his nipples and pulled at them, teasing them into hardened nubs. His groan filled her ears as his mouth

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captured hers, his tongue conquering her. The tip ran along the roof of her mouth then caressed her tongue. Their tongues dueled for supremacy as his hand captured a breast. His thumb brushed over her tightened nipple as he kept up a hard, deep rhythm. Kirstie’s hands roamed down his back to his hips, urging him to take her. The sound of their bodies coming together filled the room as Niam began whispering in Gaelic to her, his mouth laving her breasts and then up to her lips, claiming a small kiss. His hands released her breasts and slid down her sides until they were next to her thighs. Skimming over them, he slid her thighs up onto his forearms as his cock kept sliding hard and deep. As he tilted her hips, Niam lifted himself so only the head of the cock remained in her. Kirstie whimpered. His eyes glittered in the night. “Tell me, Kirstie. What do you want?” Her gaze was unwavering. Licking her kiss swollen lips, she answered, “You. I want you to take me hard and deep.” Growling, Niam slammed his cock deeply in her. She cried at the pain and the pleasure of his thrust. Whimpering, she clung onto him as she felt her body begin to tremble. “Niam, I’m going-“ His fierce growl was all she heard as he stroked deeper and harder into her wet sheath. His pace picked up as Kirstie bit his shoulder. As she tumbled over the edge of ecstasy, she yelled, “Niam!” Her cry sent him careening after her. His testicles tightened and with one last powerful thrust, he let himself release. As his body began slowing down the rhythm, Niam felt the familiar sensation of his energy leaving him, but at the same time, there was a return as well. He bent his head and suckled lovingly on Kirstie’s neck as this energy began filling him. As their heartbeats finally reached their normal speeds, he lifted his head to gaze into her eyes. The look of content had him grinning. He stroked her hair away from her face. “That was wonderful, Kirstie.” She nodded. “Amazing. I’ve never felt like that before.” Her fingers moved over his face. He wrapped his arms around her waist and rolled over so she rested against his body. Smiling, she laid her head on his chest and sighed. “I think I’m hungry. Or tired. Something.” Chuckling, Niam kissed her hair. “Why don’t I dispose of this, then we can wander into my kitchen and find something to munch on.” Niam slid from under her and walked towards the bathroom, which was connected and took care of things. Kirstie heard running water and then Niam came back with a soft washcloth and a towel. “Let me help you a bit,” he whispered. Spreading apart her legs from behind, he gently swiped the warm, wet cloth against her wet nether lips. Sighing, Kirstie lifted her hips, letting him touch her. When he was done

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wiping away their lovemaking, Niam gently patted her dry. She looked over her shoulder at him. “You didn’t have to do that.” “I wanted to. Thank you for letting me.” He took her hand and pulled her towards him until she was almost across his lap. Niam cupped the back of her head and kissed her softly. “Let’s go raid the refrigerator. We missed out on some great Thai food, you know.” He winked at her as he pulled her to a sitting position. She chuckled. “I know but someone couldn’t wait.” He mock glared at her as he pulled her to her feet. “Yeah, yeah. Blame me why don’t you.” “I do,” she countered as she followed him down to the kitchen at the back of the house. Her eyes took in the various Irish and other Celtic relics as well as hangings. The kitchen was done in a soft peach with green and blue trimmings. The room was cheery. Kirstie watched Niam open the refrigerator door, unconscious of his nakedness and hers. She glanced down and shook her head. Very rarely did she remain naked while wandering around the house. He glanced at her and his grin lit up his face. “Well, I can make us an omelet with steak or I can make you into a sundae and eat you again.” Kirstie burst out laughing. “As much I would enjoy the idea of being a sundae, I’m starving. The omelet and steak sound great. Can I help?” She stood next to him. He leaned over and nipped her lips quickly. “Nope. You sit at the table like a good little cailín, and supper will be done shortly,” Niam gestured. Kirstie sat down on the cushioned chairs while Niam quickly assembled the ingredients for their meal. His economy of movement as well as his speed was simply amazing. In twenty minutes, they were dining upon a feast. Kirstie ate heartily, her appetite stimulated by the lovemaking and something else. They fed each other bites of their eggs and steak. “This is delicious, Niam.” “Thanks, I enjoy cooking when I can. Don’t take much time for it.” When they were done, Niam rinsed off the dishes and placed them in the sink. He lifted a brow and chuckled. “I think we need a shower.” Kirstie playfully swatted at him. “Only if I don’t get it to myself first!” She bolted out of the kitchen and back towards the master bedroom. Niam grinned and headed after her. He liked this playful side. His only hope was that she would understand when he explained how great the dangers were and that she couldn’t go out alone after dark anymore. Pushing that dark thought away, he caught her as she was trying to close the bathroom door. He

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slid his way inside and began showing her the proper way to shower. Much later, they went to bed, neither of them suspecting that the rapist’s needs were outweighing the time structure set up. The screams filled the night air and the only one who heard it was Taranis and his minions. Power corrupted absolutely was something to behold. Now blood ran free as did the power.

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Chapter Eight Sunshine filtered through the blinds in Niam’s room. He rolled over slightly and encountered Kirstie’s warm, soft body next to his. They hadn’t gotten to sleep until early morning. They had been insatiable for a while, until neither of them could move another muscle. The sex between them was spectacular. Actually, it was more than sex, if he admitted it to himself. He cared for this petite woman. Kirstie had a feistiness and energy to match his. As the word energy entered his mind, he knew he would need to feed soon, but he felt sated. Niam had resisted the urge to feed on Kirstie while they made love through the night. Yet, each time they shuddered their release, he felt empty and curiously filled. Could Finn be right? Could I be on the verge of having my curse lifted? Niam glanced to where the bag sat on his dresser. Did he dare give it to her? What if Finn or Miach were wrong? Closing his eyes, he concentrated and the bag floated towards him. When the bag landed in his hand, he opened his eyes. A Maraigh never shirked destiny much less the chance to be free of the age-old god’s curse. Suddenly he felt like the scene in Labyrinth where David Bowie wanted nothing more than Sarah to give into the dream and forget about her duty. Niam wanted a chance of having a choice, a chance to love freely. More importantly, the woman that slept beside him was the one who made him feel that way. Sliding out the torc, it shimmered in the sunlight. It was at home in both the day and the night, as was the raven and dragon. Niam’s fingers traced the patterns and wondered on how to explain everything to her. He knew that it wasn’t enough for her to be a Daughter of The Morrigan, she had to accept him completely for who he was. That’s the part Niam knew would be hard, even with her being a first level Druid. “That’s beautiful, Niam. Is that a family heirloom? It looks old,” Kirstie’s voice caressed him. He turned to see her looking at him and the torc. “Yes. There’s a family legend that goes with the torc.” Kirstie sat up, her blue eyes locking with his. “Tell me?” He nodded and pulled her in close, handing her the torc. Her hands slid and caressed each part of the torc as he recalled what was known. “We were told that when we were in love or thought we might be, the torc would reveal if the woman was indeed our anamchara or soulmate. There were some other conditions, but the major one was that she would bear the mark of the raven.” Kirstie glanced at the birthmark on her inner hip. “You mean like mine?” Niam said nothing, then nodded. “That’s all we were told.” He watched her as she pulled from

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him. Their eyes met. “Who is Her?” Niam slid from the bed. He hadn’t wanted to do this, but still, he knew it had to be done. In for a pence, in for a pound. “Her is the Celtic goddess, Morrigu.“ “You serve my goddess?” “My family has served Morrigu for many millennia. We are her servants and we are cursed by her.” Kirstie shook her head. “No, that’s not possible. She can be vengeful, but she wouldn’t curse those who serve her.” Niam knelt by her. His hand gripped hers, but not before she noticed, it was shaking slightly. Whatever this was, he was badly nervous. Kirstie knew her goddess wouldn’t curse any man, much less a family. She didn’t understand. “I am Niam Maraigh, druid and cursed by The Morrigan a long time ago. For she will not give my brothers nor I respite until the conditions she set out are fulfilled.” Kirstie whispered, “What are they?” Niam’s eyes burned into hers. “We would need to find a woman who serves Morrigu and bear her mark. That she loves me unconditionally and that she accept me for what I am.” A cold shiver ran up her back. Memories of The Morrigan’s words came back to her. “What are you, Niam?” Niam tilted her head up. “I’ll show you.” He opened his mouth and released the control he had. His incisors began to lengthen and his eyes turned darker feral amber. He looked almost haunting, yet there was a strength and warmth about him. “I am a vampire. I don’t drink blood, that joy was given my twin. I drink the life force of a person.” Kirstie shook her head in disbelief. “You’re a vampire? An old vampire, I take it? Niam, why would The Morrigan curse you and your brothers in such a fashion?” Niam regained his normal form before speaking. “The short form is that we betrayed her confidence and were deceived. We failed in a sacred task appointed to us. Neither she nor we knew that the force behind it was Taranis until after we were first cursed. Miach spent a month tracing down the man who told us falsely.” Kirstie shook her head in shock. She wanted to believe it, but there was something that just didn’t sit well with her. “How badly could you have messed up?” “The death of her mortal child.”

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Kirstie stood up and pulled back. The absolute dead sound in his voice scared her. “But-“ “It’s possible, it does happen, it did happen, she died.” “Niam.” “I brought in your clothes earlier while you slept. They’re on the chair. I’ll let you get dressed and I’ll take you to your car.” His voice was dull, almost dead sounding. “Niam, wait. Please.” Niam walked out of the room, grabbing the clothes on the chair, softly closing the door behind him. Kirstie sat on the chair, trying to gather her thoughts. Dear Goddess did you really punish Niam and his brothers for something that wasn’t truly their fault? How can he be what he says he is? She scrubbed her face while grabbing her clothes. This was not the way she had planned to spend the day after the most moving, emotional sex she had in her life. Once she was dressed, she made a quick call to her friend, Dr. Wylde. “Can you see me in a bit, Colette?” Kirstie listened for a moment. “Great, I appreciate this, more than you know.” Sliding on her shoes, she gathered her dress and shoved it in the bag. Part of her was confused. She needed to talk to someone who could help her with this. The only one she knew that might be able to make sense of this all would be Colette. The empty look in Niam’s eyes hurt her. Kirstie wasn’t sure what to do. Until she could come to him honestly and accept him, there was no way the curse could be broken. Seeing his true self with her eyes showed her that he was a vampire. Though there was something sexy and dangerous, Niam was also a man with a mission. There was now a reason why he fought the darkest creatures of evil. Seeing the torc upon the bed, Kirstie picked it up. It was warm to the touch. When she looked at the ends, it looked as they were both glowing in the sunlight. Her hand cupped the raven and it opened its mouth and bit her, drawing a small amount of blood. Kirstie screamed and grabbed her hand. “Dammit!” Niam rushed in, his jeans on and his shirt unbuttoned. “What’s wrong?” She pointed at the torc on the floor. “The damn thing bit me.” Niam looked from the torc to Kirstie’s bleeding hand. It was a small bite, one that would fit the torc’s mouth. He placed his mouth over the cut and kissed it. They both felt the tingling. When he lifted his lips, the cut was entirely healed. “How-“ “The torc de Morrigu,” Niam said solemnly. He looked at Kirstie, his eyes glowing slightly. “Can I place it on you?” Kirstie nodded. Carefully, Niam twisted the torc and placed the torc around her slender neck.

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Once it was on, Niam stepped back. Both the dragon and raven began glowing. “It feels warm again, Niam,” she whispered. He reached to touch the necklet and it hissed. Stepping back, Niam waited. Kirstie’s hands when to her mark and rubbed it. “I’m itching on my birthmark. Why the hell?” She undid her pants and peeled them down to see that the mark was glowing in time with the raven’s head. “It’s true. The legends are true.” His words were like a whisper. Then he pulled back. “Except it’s not in full. The rest you don’t follow.” Cursing he slammed out of the bedroom as Kirstie sat down on the bed. A sudden thought entered her mind and she rushed into the bathroom. Finding what she was looking for, she placed it in her purse then made her way out to where Niam waited. Without a word, he opened the car door for her. Once she was inside, he closed it and got into the driver’s seat. He didn’t look at her as he took the route back towards Pad Thai. Kirstie looked at him and tried to find the words to explain, but failed. She clenched her fists against her lap. “Niam, please talk to me.” “What’s there to say, Kirstie? You fit it all, except you don’t accept me or love me.” The silence stretched awkwardly between them. When he pulled up next to her car, she turned to face him. “I care for you, Niam. Love is a big step. You mean a lot to me in a short time. Something is between us, but love? I don’t know.” His eyes locked on her. “What about my being a vampire and being an ancient Druid?” Kirstie looked away. “I’m not sure. I want to believe it, yet, it would mean that you’re almost two thousand years old.” Niam smiled depreciatingly. “Actually, older. I was alive and well before Julius Caesar.” Kirstie’s mouth gaped open, then she shut it. “Niam, I-“ He shook his head, his amber eyes almost brown. “Just go, Kirstie. I’ll keep hunting and will let you know what’s going on. Just keep yourself and Trista safe.” She knew he dismissed her with those words. Getting out of his car, she made her way to hers. Looking up, she watched him pull away, his car almost hitting another as he roared off into traffic. Tears welled up in her eyes. What was wrong with her? Why did she feel like she was losing something infinitely more precious than she could describe? Kirstie took a shaky breath then got in her car. Quickly, she went towards the outskirts of town. When she saw the gray building with the children’s mural on the side, she pulled her Miata into the parking lot. Dr. Colette Wylde worked with two other obstetrics and gynecologists. She was also a grove member and friend.

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Kirstie grabbed her purse and entered the building. Greeting the secretary, she gave her name. “Come on back, Miss Blake. Doc Wylde has been expecting you.” As the secretary walked her back, she whispered, “Doc’s been in a crazy mood. Restless and antsy all day. You make sure she laughs and gets these antsy pants out of her system so it doesn’t affect the rest of us, okay?” Kirstie smiled at the older Columbian woman. “You betcha, Sonja. Perhaps once she hears my tale, she’ll be less worried about whatever is biting her ass.” Her words carried into the office where the brunette doctor looked up from her paperwork. “Oh sure, you beg to visit, then you turn around and tease me. Out you damn spot! Out I say.” Colette got up and hugged Kirstie. Once they closed the door, Kirstie smiled weakly at her friend. Colette lifted a dark brow. “Wanna tell what’s going on?” “What do you know about vampires being created from druids?” Colette blinked and waited for something more. Kirstie looked at her friend and then sighed. “There’s this guy. He’s a druid. Powerful. He claims he’s a vampire.” The doctor tossed back her head and roared with laughter. “Let me guess, he wanted to bite you and drink your sweet iron based blood before it coagulated?” Kirstie stamped her foot as she sat down in one of the cushy red plush chairs. “He doesn’t drink blood.” Colette took her seat behind her desk. Her eyes swept over Kirstie. “You’re serious, aren’t you?” Kirstie nodded her head. “Okay, explain this from the beginning.” Fifteen minutes later, Colette sat back as Kirstie opened her purse and removed something and set it down on the desk. “Can you test this?” Colette closed her eyes and rubbed her finger over the bridge of her nose. “Please tell me that’s not what I think it is.” One blue eye peeked out under the dark lashes at the tied condom on her desk, then glared at Kirstie. “You want me to test this, really?” She nodded. “I need to know for sure that he is a vampire.” Both blue eyes opened and stared into the younger blue eyes. Colette couldn’t help it, she started to laugh. “You want me to check for fangs on the sperm? Or do you expect them to have Celtic torcs like the one you’ve got on? What do you want me to find in this lovely sample, you’ve brought me?” Kirstie shrugged and tried to explain, pushing the sample closer to Colette. “Do that thing you do. Run DNA tests and make sure he’s Celtic or something. Wouldn’t his sperm be dead if he’s a vampire?”

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Colette put her head in her hands and tried to stifle the giggles. “Kirstie, the DNA tests would only prove he’s from that genetic population. If his family was born there, especially back many generations, then they’d be more genetic markers. But as for the dead sperm thing, dear, you’ve failed to consider a basic fact.” “What?” Colette grinned at her friend. “Okay, two basic facts. First, condoms have spermicide. Second, dead men don’t cum.” Kirstie buried her head in her hands. “Colette!” Colette moved over and hugged her friend. “I’ll run some tests for you. We’ll get the information for you as soon as I can, but there’s got to be another method-“ A strong rap at the door caught both women’s attention as Sonja opened the door. “Doctor Wylde, there’s a police officer here to see you.” Kirstie stood up. “I’ll let you deal with this, Colette.” The door opened and Detective Micheal O’Connor walked in. Spotting Kirstie, he raised a brow, but addressed his comments to Colette. “Doctor, I need to speak to you for a moment. Perhaps you’d like Miss Blake with you.” Colette looked at the detective, her eyes narrowing in suspicion as Kirstie held her hand. “That sounds a tad bit ominous, Detective-“ “O’Connor. Micheal Padraig O’Connor,” Kirstie answered. “He’s the one who dealt with my and Trista’s cases, Colette.” She turned towards the knowing eyes of the detective. “You’re here because something happened, aren’t you?” He nodded. “Dr. Wylde, do you know Serena Wylde and Geoffrey Wylde?” “Yes, my sister and her son. Why are you asking me these questions?” Kirstie squeezed Colette’s hand tightly. She felt a wave of controlled emotion from Micheal Padraig. She started shaking her head. “Micheal Padraig, no. Please-“ “I’m sorry. I wish I could say this better, but something happened and they’re gone, Dr. Wylde.” Colette stood up. “Something? What is this something, Detective O’Connor? Explain now!” Kirstie held her friend’s hand as she stopped and her face fell and sobs escaped her throat. Blue eyes met brown ones. Micheal Padraig inclined his head slightly. Kirstie closed her eyes. Releasing her pent up breath, she released it slowly. “I’m so sorry, Col. I’m so sorry. Detective, can you explain?” “Their home was broken into late last night. From what we can piece together, Serena tried to

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prevent the intruders from hurting her son. However, something went wrong and they were both killed.” ”Murdered? My sister, my nephew. They’re gone?” Colette’s eyes were filled with tears. Kirstie gathered her friend into a hug. “Shh, Col. It’s okay. I’ll call Riana and we’ll help take care of everything.” “But who would do this? They never hurt anyone!” “Sit here, Col. I’ll walk the officer out and get some answers.” Colette nodded and continued to cry. Micheal Padraig motioned towards the door and Kirstie followed him just outside the door. When she closed it most of the way, letting her friend grieve, she glanced at the police officer. “What’s going on? It’s not the rapist is it?” “I’m sorry, Kirstie. I didn’t realize you knew Dr. Wylde.” Micheal Padraig hesitated and nodded. “Yes, it’s the same guy, but he wasn’t alone this time.” “More worshippers of Taranis?” Seeing the look on the detective’s face, Kirstie explained. “Niam’s told me everything, including what he is.” The detective fingered the torc. “Is that what I think it is?” She nodded. “So he says. It lit up a bit when he placed it on me.” Micheal ran his fingers through his hair. “I know Niam trusts you, so I guess I can tell you this. Both bodies were found drained of blood. They were bitten several times and then slashed.” Kirstie closed her eyes and grasped the doorframe. “Oh gods, poor Serena and Geoffrey.” A sudden noise startled them both. “You mean vampires are real?” Colette looked from Kirstie to Micheal Padraig. Her blue eyes were glazed over and tears streaked her face. “In my office, now.” They both trailed the doctor into the office. When she shut the door, Colette pointed at the detective. “Detective O’Connor, I felt your energy when you came in here, so I know you’re like Kirstie and myself. Now, explain this. I need the truth and I’ll get it one way or another. My family is dead!” Micheal Padraig looked to Kirstie, but she sat next to her friend and gave him a look that said that his explanation better be fast. Sighing, he sat down and faced the two women. “How do I say this? The legends of vampires, werewolves, and etcetera are true. They exist and they can procreate. Most are very nice people. Others, for some reason, don’t take to it well and go insane or need to increase their powers.” Both women nodded, though they both looked ashen to his trained eyes. Licking his lips, he continued. “Most of the problems occur when the vamps, shifters, and ghosties try to interfere with mortals. There are people who are called to fight against them. They’re called the Van Helsinger after the character in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Others who have fought against the evil creatures have trained many. Then there are some who are chosen in this fight.” Kirstie responded softly, “Like Niam and his brothers.”

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“Yeah. Just like the brothers Maraigh. They fight against Taranis’ minions in particular, but evil in general.” Colette eyed the man warily. “Where do you stand in all of this, Detective O’Connor?” “Sloppily.” Both women couldn’t help but chuckle. He smiled at them and placed his hands on theirs. “As someone who has grown up fighting evil and crime, this hurts me just as much. However, Doctor, you might become a target.” “Me? Why?” Colette’s voice sounded high to Kirstie. She knew her friend was teetering on the edge. “The house was ransacked, Dr. Wylde. There were pictures of you and your sister together. The man who did this has been under investigation for a bunch of serial rapes within the city as well. Now, he’s gone to murder with his buddies. There seem to be some evidence trails, but we won’t know until the crime lab runs its tests.” Colette’s mouth hardened. “You said something about the Van Helsingers. I want to join them.” “Colette!” Kirstie tugged on her friend’s arm. “You don’t want to do this.” Blazing blue eyes stopped her dead. “Serena and Geoff are gone, Kirs. Gone. I want those people who killed them dead. They don’t deserve to live for this. And if they’re a vampire or one of these weird creatures, then I want whatever it’s going to take in order to make sure I can make them pay.” “Are you sure on this?” Micheal’s voice was tight with some emotion that Kirstie couldn’t discern easily. A knock at the door made them all jump. It opened and Niam stood there. “If she’s sure, then I might as well take over at least in this.” Colette glared at Niam. “Who the fuck are you?” “Well, I’m not Batman,” Niam quipped. Kirstie smiled at the response, their eyes meeting briefly. “I’m the one that Kirstie came to talk to you about. I’m Detective O’Connor’s former mentor. Name’s Niam Maraigh.” Colette waved her hands at him. “This means what to me in my wanting to make those people pay for killing my sister and nephew?” Niam took her hand and gazed in her eyes. “It means, ban droi, I will start your training as a Van Helsinger and will have someone special come in and train you once you’ve begun your lessons.” Colette looked to Kirstie. “This is what saved you from being raped?” Kirstie nodded. “Dammit and it took you this long to sleep with him?” Turning to Niam, Colette gave a tear streaked grin. “Forgive

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me, it’s this or cry again. I don’t wanna cry, so this will have to do.” “Tuigim. If you care to get your things, Dr. Wylde, I’ll bring you to the training facility near here where you can start your lessons.” Colette nodded and went to her desk. As she bent over to get her purse from the bottom drawer, her shirt rode up and revealed a bird shaped tattoo on the base of her lower spine. Niam’s eyes were riveted. When she stood up, Colette noticed the intent expression on his face. “What’s wrong?” Niam shook his head. “Nothing wrong, but curious. What is that tattoo you have on your lower back?” Kirstie spoke first. “It’s a raven. Colette is in my nemeton. She too serves The Morrigan.” Her voice was curiously flat as if she didn’t recognize it herself. Before she recognized what she was doing, Kirstie removed the torc and placed it gently in Niam’s hands. “You need to know,” she whispered. Before he or Micheal Padraig could say anything, Kirstie walked out the door. Without stopping, she practically ran to her car. Starting it, she saw Micheal Padraig coming after her. Shoving her car in gear, Kirstie sped off, tears running down her face.

*

*

*

Niam saw the torc in his hands and turned to look at Kirstie. He moved towards her retreating figure when Micheal shook his head. “I’ll go after her, you deal with the torc.” Colette stood there, her hand on her hip. “Why do I have a feeling I’m not going to like this, much less the fact that I’m about an inch from beating the hell out of you for not going after Kirstie?” “The torc doesn’t hurt. As for the other, you don’t understand what is at stake and honestly, I’m not willing to discuss it.” He never saw the punch as it connected to his jaw. Staggering, he turned as Colette swore furiously under her breath as she shook her right fist. “Fuck, fuck, fuck that hurt! “ She glared at him. “Whether you like it or not, you best discuss it or I’m not touching that damn torc.” Growling, Niam gestured for Colette to sit opposite him. Relating the history of the torc as well as part of the history of his family. There was something comforting in Colette’s gaze. Neither of them seemed to notice when Micheal Padraig returned and sat in the spare chair. “So, that’s the story,” Niam commented quietly to a slightly subdued Colette. “Now do you understand why I must ask you to try the torc?” Colette pointed at the slack-jawed Micheal. “What’s your role in this whole debacle beyond being

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the cop looking for the murderers of my sister and nephew?” Closing his mouth and shaking his head, he replied, “He’s my mentor. I’m a Druid as well. I serve The Morrigan and Arianrhod.” She nodded, then turned her attention back upon the ancient Druid before her. “By rights, I should be furious that you’re putting me into this, but you’re also helping me to redress the balance. Thing is, I don’t love you, Niam. Hell, I barely know you from Taliesin, you know?” His voice came out harsh. “I know, but if it glowed and got warm for Kirstie and does so for you, at least we’d know-“ Colette sighed and took the torc from his hands. “That I’m meant for you or one of your brothers, right? Don’t I get a say in this at all?” Micheal Padraig barked his laughter and stopped as Niam glared. “With the Uber PITA and his brethren? You’re joking.” “Uber PITA? Who’s that?” Colette chuckled. “That’s not Niam, is it?” Niam answered for Micheal. “He’s referring to my oldest brother, Miach. My brother has a tendency to be a bit pushy at times.” Micheal’s snort emphasized that point. Niam grinned, then turned serious. “Colette, please, if I may?” Nodding, she lifted her hair away from her neck. Niam’s fingers were shaking as he placed the torc on her neck. Colette was beautiful, but more his twin’s type than his though. The thought of his brother dealing with the doctor’s smart mouth caused him to chuckle inwardly. As Niam pulled away his fingers, the torc began to glow. They all stared at the ends of the torc as both the dragon and the raven heads opened and closed their mouths. “Fuck me,” Colette whispered with anger and fear. Both men’s gazed turned to the woman wearing the torc. With an unbeknownst grace, Colette took off the torc, cutting the glow and the movement of the animal heads. Tossing it at Niam, she said, “You’re not my soulmate, Niam. I don’t know what this means, but you’re not.” The druid said nothing, but looked down at the torc. Part of him had hoped it wouldn’t have reacted to Colette’s presence, yet it did. What this meant, only the goddess knew. Colette was an attractive woman, but she didn’t make his heart aflame like Kirstie did. What does this mean? “We barely know each other, Colette. I’m not quite sure why Morrigu would do this.” His voice was low, almost too low for a human voice. “Davyd will be here in a few minutes to take you to the Van Helsinger training area nearby.” Micheal’s eyes rose. “So my brother is going to train Dr. Wylde? Interesting. I figured you’d do

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hands on training yourself, Niam.” “I’ll help somewhat, but considering that Davyd is one of the foremost Van Helsingers and mortal, he can help Colette with some of the more practical aspects. But, I’ll be testing her since I am a vampire.” Niam’s gaze never left Colette’s face, but his mind was on the woman that had run off just a while before. Colette looked at the door. “You’ll test me, but lose the person you feel the most for. How I pity you, Niam Maraigh.” A knock at the door saved Niam from answering. Micheal Padraig opened it and allowed Davyd to enter the room. His presence was one of danger, coiled tightly and yet untapped. His blonde hair was pulled back into a tight queue while his dark brown eyes looked at Niam then to Colette. “This is the new Van Helsinger we’ll be training?” He stuck his hand out. “I’m Davyd O’Connor.” “Dr. Colette Wylde. Pleasure is mine,” she purred, her hand lingering in his a moment longer than normal. “Shall we go?” Davyd asked with a predatory gleam as Colette gathered her things. As she sashayed past Niam, she whispered, “Niam, he’s hotter. I’d do him without a thought to you. You. Are. Not. My. Soulmate.” Then she walked out, whistling tunelessly. Davyd looked at Niam then to his brother. Micheal Padraig grinned and chuckled. “She’s got a sweet ass.” “Indeed. Catch you later. I’ll take good care of her,” Davyd said as he strolled out after the good doctor. Niam watched them leave. Turning his gaze onto Micheal Padraig, he asked, “Remind me why I don’t kill you or your brother?” “Well, I could lie and say you love us, but the truth is, you need us, Teach,” Micheal responded with a shit-eating grin. Niam could tell he loved this too much. “The good doctor is quite a treat. She reminds me a bit of your twin.” “Shut up, Micheal.” Niam walked passed the detective as he slid the torc into its pouch. Micheal Padraig shook his head and followed. “So now what, Niam? Colette is meant for one of you, but Kirstie has gone who knows where. So what are you going to do?” Once they were outside, Niam stopped beside his car. “What I’m going to do is easy. I’m going to her home and waiting for her. You’re going to call Miach and tell him what happened. Then you’re going to call me and tell me what he says about it.” Micheal gaped and Niam smirked. “You can go now, Micheal Padraig. Go on.” He shooed the detective away while he slid behind the wheel of his car, engaged the engine and drove off.

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Niam could hear Dr. Wylde’s comments over and again in his head. She said she knew she wasn’t his anamchara. Then why did the torc glow? What the fuck did it all mean? Hopefully Miach would have an answer as Niam felt like it was slipping him by. Getting to Kirstie’s apartment didn’t take long. He noticed her car wasn’t there, but he really didn’t care. She had to come home some time and when she did, he’d be there. He wasn’t sure what this all meant, but he’d be damned that he’d let Kirstie walk out of his life while he tried to deal with both this chance of release as well as a rapist-turned-murderer was out to kill vulnerable women.

*

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Kirstie slammed her car into gear and began driving. The tears she held back were now flowing freely down her face. She wasn’t sure where she was headed, but there was no way she was going home. Not yet. The pain hurt too much. “Why am I so upset? He needed to know. I have no claim on him,” she mumbled to herself. “I just wish I had a claim on him.” Before she realized it, Kirstie found herself at St. Petersburg Beach. Parking her car and paying for parking, she went to walk along the surf. The air was warm, the sun shining, and neither thing made her heart any lighter as it normally did. Stopping to toe off her shoes, Kirstie rolled up the ends of her jeans and carried her shoes. Inhaling deeply, she let the salt air fill her up and slowly released it. The tense muscles in her neck and shoulders began to release as she continued to take deep inhalations and release them slowly, focusing on where the three elements met. Here at the beach was where she felt most connected to the universe. This was where she always ran when she couldn’t handle her problems. “O sea, earth and air, where you meet is a sacred place. Give me help in this, “she whispered into the air. “Why do you worry so, dear one?” Morrigu walked beside her child, her eyes scanning Kirstie from head to toe. The goddess looked like everyone else, casually dressed, yet there was an aura of power around her. Kirstie wouldn’t look her Patroness in the eyes. Instead, she kept walking over the hot sand and letting the waves lap over her bare feet. “Is it true?” “About the brothers Maraigh? Yes.” “Why?”

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“They failed me.” Kirstie stopped and looked at the dark haired beauty. She noticed that her goddess had not gone unnoticed by the amount of male stares they were receiving. “Did they? Or was it the fault of Taranis?” The Morrigan stared at the young woman. “Are you questioning me?” Kirstie nodded. “He’s a good man, and you know it. They made a mistake, I understand back then it cost everyone. But what about this now?” Morrigu looked out at the water and her purple eyes darkened. “There’s much going on, Kirstie. Too much that you don’t comprehend. Yet, I suppose there’s no one else I can trust with this.” Kirstie’s eyes followed Morrigu’s line of sight and gasped. Beyond the horizon line was a gaping black mass with lightning striking from it. “I’m just seeing this, aren’t I? This isn’t visible to everyone.” “That is the result of the work being done here in this land, Kirstie. Taranis is hoping by upping the power flow by his minions that he’ll be able to walk this world as the others and I do. Tomorrow night there will be another ritual, thus opening briefly a portal for him to enter into one of his minions’ bodies. None of the gods can stop this. Though Taranis can only use the body until it’s spent, in that short time, he shall wreak havoc,” The Morrigan intoned. “What can I do to stop him?” The goddess laughed harshly, the ringing filling Kirstie’s ears. “What can you do? Don’t get killed by them. If one of my servants falls to Taranis or his minions, then he will gain a leap of power to allow him to enter as often as he wishes at every dark moon, Kirstie.” “What about Niam and his brothers? Can they stop him?” The goddess’ face looked thoughtful. “The Marauders? They have fought against Taranis and his ilk for many a lifetime. Yet, Niam and the deartháir O’Connor just might be able to help.” “Colette Wylde has pledged herself as a Van Helsinger, The Morrigan.” “Yes, I heard her vow and have accepted her need for retribution and war against Taranis. This shall help many who would otherwise suffer.” Kirstie bit her lip then softly asked, “She’s one of your daughters, isn’t she?” Morrigu smiled and brushed Kirstie’s hair from her face. “Just as you are, yes. She’s been a long time in my service and for that I will allow her need for violence against those who killed not in war.” “What about the torc you gave them?” The goddess smiled and tilted up Kirstie’s face so their eyes met. “Darling daughter, I gave them the torc for hope. Thus it should be. I can sense that you’ve worn it, so why do you fret. You do love Niam, don’t you?” They walked along the beach while Kirstie nodded. “Yes, I do. I don’t know how it happened, but

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I can’t stop thinking of him. Of what he is.” “Do you hate him for what he is?” “No, why would I?” Kirstie shook her head, her hair whipping across her face. “It was a bit hard to believe at first, but seeing things, seeing him show up at Colette’s office and knowing that he also tried the torc on her-“ “He did what?! Is he an imbecile? The torc is be presented to one Daugher by one Marauder.” The Morrigan’s voice lifted and the wind picked up her anger. “He was to present it to one not to many. Didn’t Miach warn him?” Kirstie shrugged. “I’m not sure. The raven responded and bit me. Niam closed the wound with his vampiric ability. When I left, he was going to try the torc with Colette.” Morrigu threw up her hands. “I knew they waited a long time, but to place the torc upon another woman without the other brothers being there, of course, it’d still react.” “Why ‘of course’?” Morrigu grinned mysteriously while shaking her head. “No Kirstie, that I shall not tell you. But know this and let it ease your heart. The man you love is one of two. Thus, you are one and she is two.” Suddenly the sunshine brightened where Kirstie turned her head. When it had gone back to the regular brightness, The Morrigan was gone. “How, what? Morrigu?” Standing by herself, Kirstie looked for signs of the goddess, yet there were only her footsteps. Turning her gaze out towards the bay, she saw the growing blackness and knew for sure that The Morrigan had granted her this sight. Rubbing one shoulder, she began heading back to her car. The sun would soon be setting and to be honest, Kirstie took her goddess’ warning seriously. She didn’t need to be out if Taranis and his minions were going to be out hunting.

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Chapter Nine As she approached her home, Kirstie felt a tingle on the back of the neck. Rubbing it, she directed her car away from her apartment building. Was she becoming sensitive to feeling beyond the norm like Colette and Riana? Though she couldn’t tell if what was there waiting was good or bad, she wasn’t going to risk it. As she pulled off about two blocks from her home, she pulled out her cell phone and called the one person she had to let know what the goddess had said. “This is Niam.” “Niam? This is Kirstie,” she said, her voice soft and a bit sad. “Where are you? We need to talk.” His voice was tight with emotions, but she couldn’t quite say what they were. “Where I am doesn’t matter. What does is that The Morrigan came to me.” The swearing on the other end of the line made her smile slightly. This man swooped down and saved her only two weeks before. This was the man that in the short time she’d known him, had touched her heart and soul. The Morrigan was right; she was in love with him. Kirstie’s body shivered with the acknowledgement. “What did she say?” “Taranis is amassing power. Out beyond the horizon of the bay, I could see it gathering. She said something about a ritual and Taranis possessing one of his minions in a day or so.” “Come home now, Kirstie. You’re not safe out there.” “There was something there, Niam. I felt a sensation on the back of my neck.” There was a pause. “That’s me, Kirs. I was here waiting to talk to you.” “Oh.” “Come home, Kirs. We need to talk. Please.” His voice held a note of longing and some other emotion. “Fine. You need to know what the goddess said. Be there in less than five minutes,” Kirstie said as she hung up her cell phone. She sat there, he hands gripping the steering wheel for a moment. Was she willing to really see him and listen to what he had to say? Closing her eyes, she sighed deeply. Of course, I am. If I love him, I’ve got to start trusting in him too. Making that decision, Kirstie opened her eyes, started the car’s engine and pulled out into traffic, heading for home. Locking the door, Kirstie carried her bag upstairs. As she turned the corner, there was Niam in his dark clothes, his eyes looking haggard and worn. Her heart melted at the sight. “Hi there,” she whispered.

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“Hi there, yourself.” She unlocked her door and looked at him. “Why didn’t you just slide in through the door?” Niam chuckled lightly. “That’s a myth, my dear. Only Elathan, Donal and Miach are the ones who can phase through walls like ghosts. We vampire types have got to be like everyone else.” Kirstie let them both in and shook her head. “Trista is staying with her cousin for another day. I got the call as I headed here. We’re going to be alone.” She walked towards the kitchen. “Do you want something to drink?” Niam grabbed her arms and turned her around, gathering her close. His mouth crushed hers and she opened up under the firm pressure of his lips. A moan escaped, causing him to growl as his tongue curled around hers. Slowly he pulled back, a glimmer of a smile on his lips. “I would love a drink.” Wordlessly, she retrieved two glasses, filled them with ice and poured lemonade into them both. Handing Niam his, she asked, “Why did you kiss me?” “The torc glowed for Colette.” Kirstie looked down. “I see.” “No you don’t. She says I’m not her soulmate and I believe her.” Rounded eyes looked deep into his amber ones. “Do you swear?” “I do, Kirstie. Dr. Wylde said in no uncertain terms that I’m not hers. I’m not sure what it means, but I do believe her.” Neither spoke while they sipped on their drinks. Their minds reeled with the implications and questions this presented. Finally, Kirstie spoke. “I need to tell you what The Morrigan said regarding all of this.” Quickly she related everything that happened on the beach, including the parting words. Niam listened intently, not once disrupting her retelling. When she was done, he looked at her with a curious look. “What is it?” “She said, ‘The man you love is one of two. Thus, you are one and she is two,’ right?” Kirstie nodded slowly. “Yes, that’s exactly what she said.” Niam grabbed her palm and kissed it. “I am one of two, Kirstie. Remember?” She shook her head. “One of two what? I’ve wracked my brain on that and I still don’t get it.” He licked up her palm, letting his tongue to swirl on her skin. Whispering against the sensitive inner wrist, “I won’t tell you then. I think that you need to figure this out. Now I know why the goddess got so upset by what I did. I was foolish.” “Foolish? You?” she whimpered as Niam’s tongue licked up her arm.

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His mouth continued its path up her arm and at her neck, he suckled hard, causing Kirstie to gasp as she felt her body fall under his spell. “Niam,” she moaned. “Yes, my dear?” His words were a whisper against her ear as his fingers deftly undid the buttons on her shirt. When her bare breasts were exposed, Niam began caressing the nipples into hardened peaks. “What do you want?” Her eyes were dark with passion. Without hesitation, she gave into the love and desire she felt. “You, Niam. I want you.” Growling with need, he swept her into his arms and carried her out of the kitchen, heading towards the hallway to the bedrooms. “Which one?” “Second door on the left,” she answered, her body clinging to him. Things weren’t completely settled and there was something she didn’t understand, but at the same time, right now, she didn’t care. He wanted her and she wanted him. Everything else could wait. Entering her bedroom, Niam stopped and felt a sense of peace slide through his body. Grinning at the woman in his arms, he kissed her nose. “I think I like your bedroom better than mine.” “Oh really?” she chuckled and licked his neck. Niam shuddered and lowered her on the bed, his body covering hers. “Really, grá geal.” His eyes lingered over her body and then on her face. “Let’s get off these excess clothes.” Within minutes, they were both fully undressed. Her hands explored his broad chest and she placed a kiss upon his chest. Kirstie pushed at him, so Niam laid flat on his back. “I want to touch first this time.” Her hands and mouth played with his flat, dark nipples. As she suckled on one, he gasped at the contact. “Grá geal that feels so good.” Grinning, she continued trailing her mouth downwards. His salty taste heightened her need for him. When her mouth touched the tip of his erection, her right hand slid under his testicles and gently cupped him. Kirstie’s tongue flicked over the swollen head and she grinned as she felt him jump in her hand. “You seem to like my touching you like this,” she moaned as she slowly took him in. His fingers slid through her hair and his hips arched up, urging her to take him more. As Kirstie’s mouth suckled his length, Niam groaned deeply and tried pulling her up towards him. “No,” she murmured against his length. “I want to do this. Please.” Niam nodded as their eyes met. “Kirstie, I want-“ “Shh, my dear Niam, let me.” Her mouth delved back down, showing him exactly how much she

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enjoyed the power she had over him as he groaned and writhed at her sensual onslaught. Her body undulated as her mouth slid up and down him. His hand slid to where her legs parted as her mouth gently began suckling just the head of his cock. Feeling her wetness, he slid in one of his fingers, causing her to gasp with pleasure. “Ride me, Kirstie,” he uttered quietly as his finger began sliding in and out of her hard and fast. Her body arched as he slipped in another finger and her mouth took the pace he set. Finally, Niam couldn’t stand it anymore and grasped her waist, lifting her above him. “Now, Kirstie.” With that, he impaled her on his cock. Kirstie’s head fell back as a long moan pealed out of her lips. Rocking her hips against his, their rhythm picked up pace. Niam guided her hips down on him, taking himself deeper in her and for himself, taking her deeper in the emotions she spawned in him. Seeing her wantonness as she leaned forward and slid herself hard upon him, Niam caressed her cheek then her breast. This woman made him want to lose control. To take everything she’d give and give his all back to her. Her moans became louder as her breathing became shallower. Her blue eyes gazed into his. “Niam, I’m-“ “Come for me, grá geal.” Her body shook as her climax rocked through her body. His name poured from her throat as she bowed her body. Niam grasped her face and pulled her into a deep kiss as his climax hit as well. As their mouths mated, he began taking in her life essence. Her fingers gripped his shoulders as her body shifted, milking him within her. Blue eyes flickered open as amber ones stared at her. Feeling something happening, Kirstie closed her eyes again, giving into the feeling. She allowed her essence to flow within Niam and in return, she felt his soul brushing against hers. Reaching out, Kirstie embraced his soul and whispered, “I accept you completely, Niam Maraigh.” Niam tried to pull back, but his need to feed out stripped his control. Finally, he slid his lips from hers. “Kirstie?” Unfocused blue eyes locked on his. “Niam. Always.” Then she collapsed upon him. Letting out a ferocious growl, Niam gathered the naked woman in his arms and covered them both with the comforter. His hands brushed her hair from her face. It was so pale now, almost too pale, but the glimmer of a smile held him enthralled. He hadn’t been able to make out her words, but whatever they were, she was content by telling him.

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Niam’s cell phone rang, waking him up. Scrambling, he finally retrieved it from his jeans’ pocket. “Niam.” “I need you,” the voice whispered. “I’m at the address I gave you. They want to – No, dear, I won’t be home until late tonight. You go ahead and get some sleep. See you in the morning.” The line went dead. “Fuck!” Niam grabbed his clothes and started pulling them on. “Dammit, this is not good.” “What’s not good?” Kirstie’s whisper carried to him. Her eyes were almost too large for her face and her skin was still a milky pale. He reached over and kissed her cheek. “You need to rest. Micheal Padraig’s in trouble. I’m going to bail him out.” Kirstie placed her hand on his arm. “Niam, please, let me help.” Sitting up, she gazed into his eyes. “He’s gone to try to deal with Taranis’ minions on his own. Granted, he’s called me, but he’s left it a bit late.” She tossed back the covers and climbed out of bed. Stretching, Kirstie yawned as Niam watched her naked form glint in the moonlight that came in through the blinds. “So, we’re going after him.” “No, you need to stay here and rest. I’m going after him.” “No, Niam, you can’t do this alone. If you need to feed, you’re going to need a ready source.” Kirstie refused to look at him as she strode to her highboy dresser and pulled out black stretch jeans and a dark pullover shirt. Sliding into both, she then sat on the bed pulling on dark socks. Niam grabbed her hand. “I canna let you help, grá geal.” His accent became more pronounced as he spoke. “You’re right, I might need to feed, but I can do it off of those miscreants.” “They’ll be impure and could taint you.” Niam shook his head. “It’s not like it is for my twin, Kirs. The blood can taint a vampire into absorbing their nature briefly, but the energy essence I take in is purified itself.” Kirstie said nothing as she went to her closet and removed her high top black cross trainers. Tying her shoes, Kirstie pointed to the vanity set. “Can you grab me a hair scrunchy, please?” Niam tossed her hair scrunchy. “You’re not coming, Kirstie. The danger is more than I can protect you from.” “You either take me or I’ll go by myself. Choice is yours.” She moved in front of Niam. “Listen to me, Niam Maraigh. The Morrigan said I’m one of the two. You’re part of a twin. Now, this is how I figure it- you’re a vampire and a druid, thus doubly blessed. You can fight the darkness caused by Taranis. Micheal Padraig is a trained detective and druid. He’s in trouble. I’m a druid and I do know how

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to protect myself. I can help distract so you can get to the root of this and grab Micheal. I won’t put myself into unnecessary trouble unless you force me.” Niam watched her pull out her two stones from a pouch and also her dagger and a gun. Kirstie slid the gun into a holster under her shirt so the gun rested at the small of her back. The dagger was small enough to fit on her belt that she threaded through her jeans. He waited. “I’m ready. Let’s go. What do you need to go get?” Her voice was slightly rough and a bit lower than normal. Her eyes were hard. “It’s all in my car.” His eyes raked her body. “You’re really going to force me to take you along.” “Yes.” Niam flipped open his phone and dialed a number. “Listen, Micheal Padraig’s in trouble. Meet me and Kirstie at 527 Triangle Park Ave.” He listened at the voice on the other end. “Yes, bring your trainee along. She might as well learn hands on. See you there in thirty minutes.” He walked out of the bedroom, heading towards the front door. “Nothing I say will change your mind, will it?” “That’s about it.” “Does it bother you that I’m a vampire?” Kirstie smiled and grabbed him, forcing him to face her. She grabbed his face and lowered it towards her. “I’m counting on your vampire skills to keep me safe, my dear.” Her lips whisked softly across his, making him open to her questing tongue. She pulled back and smiled softly. “See, I trust you completely. I have since the first time we met.” Niam’s mouth dropped. He gripped her wrist and kissed her fiercely then released her. “There’s something I need to tell you, but there’s no time. Kirstie, when this is done, I need to explain-“ Her finger covered his lips, stopping his words. “Later. Let’s go save Micheal Padraig first.” He gave her a brief nod and waited for her. She grabbed her keys and handed them over to him. Niam waited until they were outside her apartment and made sure it was locked solid. Kirstie then followed him down to where his Dodge Stealth was parked. She said nothing until she was buckled inside. “We’re going towards the wharf, aren’t we?” “Yes. The minions have been using a warehouse that’s been closed down for a while. When we get there, stick close behind me. If the layout is still the same layout as the others, then I can get us in without being seen. They’ll conduct the ritual in the central area. Do you know anything regards the rituals of Taranis?” Kirstie shook her head. “No, can you tell me what to expect?”

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On their drive, Niam explained about the various rituals they might see. “First thing to remember that Taranis is a storm and war god. He enjoys bloody death. Unlike The Morrigan who likes war for war’s sake, whether it’s large or small, Taranis is out for major bloodshed.” “Are you saying that basically, he’s out for the blood and power rush? I know from study that his rituals often include things like bloodletting, ecstasy cutting, and the use of lightning.” “There’s also ritual sacrifice of humans. Whereas most of the Celt gods don’t demand the deaths of their followers, Taranis still on occasion indulges.” The look on Kirstie’s face was one of horror. “Why would he want that?” “Power. His rituals are also corruptions of the original rituals the Druids and the Celts did for the gods. Each of his rituals are intended to help boost his power. He wants on this realm so he can gain his powers and control it.” His voice was taut with controlled emotions. Kirstie nodded and asked questions, as she needed things clarified. Though the basic rituals, such as invoking the Elements were the same, the call of power was different and more malevolent. Yet, without his help, she’d be lost. Well maybe not completely. Who knew that her training as a druid would actually come in handy? She took some deep, calming breaths. The sea breeze helped reassure her that she was still in Florida and not from the time where Niam had grown up, seeing the atrocities of Taranis and his followers at the height of power. The street they turned onto seemed a bit busy for that Friday evening, especially in the warehouse district. Kirstie looked out the car window. “Well, I this isn’t the club district of Ybor, so I believe that we can expect a decent amount of company.” “Indeed. Are you going to be ready for this?” “As Denis Leary says, ‘Lock and load, baby’,” Kirstie said with a dry chuckle. “Let’s get this over with already.” Niam lifted one dark brow. “You think you’re Wonder Woman or something? Remember, no playing hero.” “I know I’m not her. For one, I don’t have the bracelets or the lasso. No heroism, I promise.” His hand snacked around to the back of her neck and drew her in for a deep, soul-searing kiss. Their lips met with a ferocity and more. Tongues danced around each other until they both pulled back, gasping for air. Niam caressed her hair. “We go in, get Micheal Padraig and get out. Nothing more from either of us.” They got out of the car and casually strolled in the direction of the warehouse. It was like most Floridian ones, lots of windows and made of cement blocks. Though painted a pale gray color to reflect

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the sun’s rays, it looked like hundreds of other warehouses. Yet, there seemed to be an aura of evil clinging to its shadows at this time of night. Perhaps it was her imagination, but Kirstie thought she could sense that darkness that wasn’t of the night itself. “Stay close, Kirs,” Niam stated as he slid her hand within his. “I’d rather us not become separated. But if we do, go straight to my car. Here’s the key.” She looked at the key he offered and knew that he was giving her the chance to back out if things got bad and to be the one to be ready to get the hell out once they got Micheal Padraig. “Thank you.” “Okay, they’re still gathering with newbies around. We need to find him now.” They entered without nary a second glance as they inclined their head at some of the ones who stood watch over the people entering the building. Niam walked unerringly among Taranis’ minions. Kirstie could tell he was silently grading their status and deadliness. Once they arrived within the main area, she bit back a gasp. There were women who were prostrating before a couple of men. Her brows lifted as they began fondling the men, as they gave thanks to the storm god. A voice whispered against her ear. “Just smile and nod, Kirs. I know it’s repugnant, but Taranis does use whatever way he can to gather power, including sex.” Obeying Niam, Kirstie smiled but she knew it didn’t quite reach her eyes. Her fingers doodled over the hilt of her dagger, which gave her comfort in this evil place. Now she could understand why Niam hadn’t wanted her to come. If she hadn’t been prepared for anything, Kirstie knew she’d have scampered out of there faster than fast. Well you’re here to help Micheal Padraig. Once he’s free, you can scamper all you want. A hush swept over the room as two men with lightning tattoos on their necks stood up on the makeshift stage. The bald, heavyset man spoke first. “Tonight is special for us who serve Taranis. We have a new initiate with abilities that will serve the storm god in his glory. Plus, tonight we shall all give of ourselves and Lugh here will become the god’s avatar for a short time.” The man called Lugh was a tall, well-built man with short blonde hair and ice blue eyes. Kirstie shivered as she took in the almost emptiness in his eyes. He had been well prepped to become the god’s earthly avatar. She remembered The Morrigan’s warning regarding this happening. They had to stop it as well as find Micheal Padraig. Niam’s hand reassuringly squeezed her shoulder. They would do this. There was no option to fail. Ancient Celtic music poured out of hidden speakers. Feeling the power in the music, her eyes met Niam’s. He nodded as he felt the call to dance, the music used to cause ecstasy dancing. “It’s the music of Taranis. Can you conjure another song in your head to counteract it?”

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Kirstie’s lips curved. “You remind me of the babe-“ She winked at Niam with a courage she wasn’t sure she had. “Magic Dance from the Labyrinth soundtrack.” His chuckle warmed her as did his droll response. “Oh, that’s priceless. Now, I’m going to be singing that tune. Thanks, Kirstie.” “What kind of magic spell to use…” she murmured to herself, as they made their way closer to the stage. A curtain pulled back and Micheal Padraig was led out, the detective wearing only his jeans and shoes. His arms were bound behind him in the traditional bound captive position. Kirstie’s heart lurched for the man. No one deserves the ignoble treatment that he would endure for this. “Tonight, Micheal O’Connor stands before us. He wishes to serve Taranis as one of his priests. What say you?” The crowd roared their approval. Both Niam and Kirstie separated with her going towards one of the exits near the stage. Her eyes never left site of the ancient druidic vampire. With a fluid grace, Niam made his way closer to his cúntóir. There was a resigned air about Micheal Padraig and it worried Kirstie. However, there was no time in which to worry about that as it was more important to get him and themselves to safety. Everything else could be dealt with later. Kirstie knew she’d never remember how it happened, but the aftermath of that moment would live in her dreams. As the leader sliced across Micheal’s chest, raising droplets of blood, a female voice rang out. “Die you sonofabitches!” She knew that voice. Chaos ensued as Colette Wylde, dressed in all black, with Sais flashing headed towards the stage. Behind her was the blonde haired Davyd, a gun in one hand and a sword in another. If Kirstie thought on it, it reminded her of a scene from some show, but she knew she had to move or face being attacked. Hot, heavy breathing behind her caused her to turn, with her dagger unsheathed. “You’re not one of Taranis’ servants!” The vampire opened his mouth to attack her. With a swipe of her dagger, she slashed across his neck, causing blood to splatter everywhere. The gagging and gurgling sound that came from the vampire’s throat made Kirstie gag. “Nope, I’m not one of his sycophants, I’m a daughter of The Morrigan,” she growled as she reached for her gun under her loose shirt. This was going to turn into a huge fight and there was no way to make sure that everyone got out alive. “Micheal Padraig!” “Over here, Kirstie!” She rushed onto the stage and with her dagger, neatly cut the ropes that bound him. “You okay?” “Yeah. They saw the raven tattoo and decided to make it sound as if I was going to be-“

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Kirstie hushed him and handed him her gun. “Not now. Later. We need to get the fuck out of here!” Micheal tugged her wrist, leading her to the right down some stairs when Lugh appeared before them, his eyes blazing. Kirstie heard Micheal’s “Fuck!” Standing tall, she stepped forward. “Halt child of Morrigu or I won’t hesitate to destroy you. I need the blood of this traitor in order to complete the ritual.” Kirstie smiled malevolently at the creature partially possessed by Taranis. Calling silently upon the power of The Morrigan, she shoved her dagger deep between the ribs where it would pierce the heart. “Fuck off!” Lugh backhanded her as his eyes glowed with an unholy light. “You cannot easily kill me, raven child. Now feel the power of Taranis!” Kirstie sprawled five feet away from Micheal Padraig as her head rung with pain. “Never piss off a deity, sister-friend,” Colette stated as she strode forward. “They have a tendency to possess more powers than either of us.” Reaching down, the doctor yanked Kirstie to her feet. The look on Colette’s face was pure determination with a small hint of compassion only in her eyes. Recovering her breath, she nodded. “Thanks Colette. I take it you’re the one who yelled?” A grin caressed the woman’s face. “Davyd tried to warn me, but oh well, I lost my temper. Let’s go kick some deity ass.” Colette handed Kirstie a blood stained sai and they both approached Lugh. As they stepped forward, the man’s voice rumbled through the warehouse. “Halt or he dies!” Both women stopped in their tracks. Kirstie’s blade was causing droplets of blood to trickle from Micheal Padraig’s throat. Colette spread her hands forward while Kirstie began moving forward. “I said stop,” the partial avatar growled. “He’s useless to you. Though he might be consecrated to another god, you know that because of this act, he won’t create the power surge you need. Let him go and use me,” Kirstie retorted, her voice oddly calm. Colette tugged on her arm but Kirstie shot a look at her. The doctor let go as Kirstie moved closer to the avatar. Lugh’s face smiled as his eyes raked her body. Suppressing a shudder of revulsion, his touch on her face was one of immense evil and nastiness. “True, that a daughter of my enemy would indeed be a more powerful sacrifice.” The voice trembled with memories. “Just like that day long ago when I destroyed her village of priestesses. How sweet was the power that I was given.” “You bastard! You let your people kill my sister and my nephew!” Colette cursed at him.

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A chuckle rang the room as vampire and mortal raged in anger as the overwhelming numbers began to press upon Niam and Davyd. “Why, yes, I believe I allowed my vampires to help this person whom I inhabit now to cross the line so the power would be there. Once I own his body, their deaths won’t be the only ones, doctor.” As Kirstie took her place beside Lugh, she shoved Micheal Padraig out of the way. Her hands passed him a small knife she carried with her that had been blessed by her grove during her initiation rite. Her deep blue eyes looked into his with earnest. Please get Niam here, Micheal Padraig. Please, I’m afraid to let this monster win. She knew he couldn’t hear her, but he moved back, sliding his body off the stage. She watched him punch out a couple of the mortals left after the major commotions, then he disappeared. Goddess let him find Niam. Her own dagger was placed at the base of her neck, the tip biting into her flesh. She refused to flinch. By taking this step, she knew she risked her own chance at happiness as well as the possibility of release if she were Niam’s soulmate. Looking at Colette, she tried to picture him and her together as a couple, but instead saw a man with longer hair beside her. Though he looked similar to Niam, it wasn’t quiteThat was what Niam and The Morrigan meant! Niam had a twin, and he was number one. Just as she was one and Colette was two, so her friend was meant for the second born twin, Owain. Suddenly, she didn’t want to die. Kirstie badly wanted to tell Niam she understood the point now. Telling him that she loved him was of the utmost importance. “Among you is one who is not mortal but does not serve you,” she whispered to Taranis. Her only hope is if he took the bait. “Speak plainly, woman!” “One of the Marauders is here to kill you, milord Taranis.” “You say this to save your own hide.” “I speak it because it’s true and we both know the power within him.” Taranis’ voice grew to booming. “Marauder! Show yourself or the Daughter of Morrigu dies by her own blade.” Niam stopped as he finished killing one vampire. Kirstie- captured? Micheal Padraig grabbed his arm, their eyes meeting in silence. “I am here, Taranis. Let her go.” “So you can be a sacrifice in her place? I don’t think so, Niam of the droi.” “Póg mo thóin! Kiss my ass!” Niam shouted at the god. His legs carried him towards the stage, his ability to affect the mortals in the crowd, forced them back while the other vampires hissed. Niam leaped upon the stage, his body raked with cuts and bruises

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from fighting Taranis’ people. The amber eyes burned with barely contained rage. “I am one, you are one, Niam,” Kirstie said with a soft smile as a tear rolled down her cheek. “Finally, I understand.” Niam’s gaze left Taranis’ face and took in the pale woman who stood unmoving against the dagger tip. His heart swelled in love for her. “T’a gr’a agham dhuit, gra geal.” Kirstie knew the words he said as her heart swelled in love. He told her he loved her. Tears fell unchecked down her cheeks, stinging where the dagger bit into her skin. Taranis barked with laughter, the ice blue eyes beginning to cloud over. “How sweet, the druid has fallen for a mortal daughter of Morrigu. Too bad that you can’t be freed.” Outside, the sound of a large thunderstorm began to make itself known. Colette slid next to Niam as Davyd and Micheal began their ascent on the stairs behind the god. A flash of lightning lit up the room in an unholy light as Taranis whirled to face both O’Connor brothers. “Die.” The words were uttered with power behind it as the dagger left from under Kirstie’s chin. The tip was aimed towards them and a bolt of lightning erupted from it. Kirstie jammed herself backwards against the storm god, causing the aim to fire wide of its mark. As she and Taranis fell to the floor, Niam jumped forward, his foot catching the god’s chin. The god grabbed her and at that moment, she knew she’d die. As a ball of lightning passed from him into her, her body arched in agony. “Niam!” Colette grabbed Kirstie’s flailing arm and dragged her away from the writhing god. Niam grabbed the fallen dagger and rammed it into the throat of the avatar. Blood rushed from the avatar as the storm broke above the warehouse. Niam called out in Gaelic, “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. May he rest in peace.” Then he leaned down and closed the young man’s eyes. Though the serial rapist was no more, Taranis was sent back to the Pantheonic realm where he would wait for yet another chance to walk in the mortal realm. Turning from the corpse, Niam bent on his knees as he cradled Kirstie’s head. He looked at Colette as she examined her friend. “How is she?” “Unconscious, but her heart rate’s stable. We need to get her out of here and somewhere where we can watch over her.” Davyd and Micheal approached cautiously. “I canna believe that she risked her life for us,” Micheal said quietly. When Taranis had fallen, the remaining sycophants of the god fled into the night. They had collared one and got out the information that the newest Van Helsinger would need.

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Niam looked up at both men. “She would’ve done anything to make sure we weren’t hurt. I knew this would happen. Why didn’t she listen to me?” Colette patted his arm. “Probably for the same reason you didn’t listen to her. She loves you, Niam and wanted you safe.” Gathering the woman in his arms, Niam headed for the exit. His boots fell heavily upon the concrete floor. As he reached the door he looked back at the three mortals. “I’m not safe unless she’s mine. She is my anamchara.” His steps continued to echo as he left the warehouse. Colette turned to the two brothers. “What is that word?” “Anamchara. He’s found his soulmate. But-“ Colette grabbed their hands. “Let’s go. He’s going to need us until she awakens.” The three rushed after the ancient druid. Placing her gently in his car, Niam glanced over his shoulder. “What?” “I’ve got my doctor’s bag. Whose place is nearest?” “Mine.” Niam’s voice was hollow. “Let’s go. We’ll get her stabilized and she’ll be fine. I promise.” Colette guided Micheal Padraig towards Davyd’s racy sports car. “Drive to Niam’s. He’s in shock over this as she is. He needs to feed, dammit.” They followed the Dodge Stealth as it raced the roads heading for the place that Niam had once called home.

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Chapter Ten Carrying her into the house, Niam brushed his lips against her cool skin. This was his love, his beloved anamchara. Without her the years would continue to go by and he would be empty without her. Laying Kirstie down on his bed, he clasped her hand in his. “I love you, Kirstie Blake. Now and forever. You are the daughter of Morrigu, but you are the conqueror of my heart. I need you.” Slowly, Kirstie’s eyes flickered open. A wan smile played upon her lips. “I love you, Niam Maraigh. For what you were, what you are, and what you shall always be. You are my light, you are my dark. Without you, I cannot live.” Suddenly a flash of blue light appeared on the opposite side of the bed. There stood The Morrigan, a smile of joy upon her face. “Thus two souls are once again put together. For he is one-“ “And I am one. Thank you, my goddess for your wisdom,” Kirstie croaked. Niam stared at the goddess. “Why are you here?” A mischievous smile crossed Morrigu’s lips. “Place the torc upon my daughter’s neck, Niam Maraigh.” Niam withdrew the torc from its pouch and gently tugged it into place. It began glowing. As three sets of footsteps came to a complete halt, all watched the torc glow brightly. A blue light encompassed Kirstie and Niam’s bodies. When it died, both let out the breaths they held back. “What was that?” Kirstie asked as she tried to sit up. “Healing and the release of the curse.” Niam glared at the goddess. “But I don’t feel different. I still have a need for energy.” Morrigu smirked. “But it’s only the energy of your anamchara, Niam Maraigh. No one else will ever sate your needs except her. You will now begin to age and be like all other mortals. However, you retain your vampiric skills and abilities. They are needed in the fight against Taranis.” He bowed his head at her words. “Forgive me, Morrigu.” “Easily, my friend. Be happy with my daughter. If you fail her-“ “I shall not.” Morrigu kissed Kirstie’s cheek. “This man I once prized above all others. Take care of him, my ban droi.” “I shall, my Goddess.” Morrigu looked at the woman and the two men standing in the doorway. Pointing to Micheal Padraig, her countenance darkened. “You will be punished for the risks and disobedience. Did you not

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learn the lessons of the deartháir Maraigh?” Micheal Padraig bowed his head and knelt upon one knee. “As you will, my Patroness.” “Not now. I shall speak with Arianrhod and we will decide what to do with you. When it’s time, you shall come to the sacred place and accept your punishment.” Morrigu turned from them. “I must go now. My brother is upset and I wish to place the skills of my children in his face once more.” Another flash of light announced her departure. Niam held Kirstie’s hand, his lips sliding over her palm. “Gráim thú, mo chroí. I love you, my heart.” “And I love you.” “Will you make it go síorai, forever?” “Promise to storm my heart and soul every so often?” “Definitely.” “Then I say yes.” Niam scooped her into his arms and kissed her deeply. When they were done, Davyd cleared his throat, reminding them that there was company. Kirstie nodded at the look in her beloved’s eyes and removed the torc, handing it to him. He walked towards Colette. “This needs to go to my brother, Owain Maraigh.” Colette looked at the torc and sighed. “Do I have to touch it?” He handed her the special pouch. “It can sit in here. That way you need not touch it.” Davyd spoke. “We found out where some of the members that slaughtered her family were heading. The leader is said to be Egyptian.” Nodding, Niam took Colette’s hand and closed it upon the torc. “My brother is in Cairo. You’ll be able to find him there. Give this to him and let him know I’ve been released from my curse. Since I think you’re going to hunt your family’s killers, you can do this duty for me as well.” “I will. Shall I tell him anything?” Niam smiled and looked back at the woman he would soon make his wife. “Yes, tell him that the cost of release was worth it. I have no regrets.” Colette hugged Niam and beamed at Kirstie. “Be happy, you two. I’ve got vampires to hunt.” She left with Davyd close behind. Niam looked at Micheal Padraig. “Well?” “Go home and rest, Micheal. You deserve it. We shall talk tomorrow.” Micheal Padraig turned and left, leaving Niam alone with Kirstie. Sliding under the covers, he slid her into his arms, so that her head rested on his chest.

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“Alone at last.” “Yes, we are,” she said kissing his jaw. “Niam, I love you and I want to be yours now and always.” His amber eyes lit with happiness. “You are, anamchara. You are.” Kirstie grinned at him. “Well, since I am, I need to tell you something very important.” “Yes?” “I’m hungry.” Niam growled and kissed Kirstie until they were both breathless. “You want food?” “I never said that-“ Then she proceeded to show him exactly what she was hungry for.

Publishers Note: Read on for a bonus story The Maruaders’ Samhain by Cynnara Tregarth.

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The Marauders’ Samhain Story Miach took in his brothers' dark countenances. This time of year was one of the hardest to deal with. The earth had gone into winter, the womb of life gestating to make preparations for the spring of eternal rebirth. Tonight of all nights meant that the barrier between the Otherworld and the mortal realm was at its thinnest. Tonight was Samhain. There were powers at work tonight. Many of them, not all of them pleasant. As the leader among them, Miach gazed at each brother and noted their strengths, their weaknesses and the one thing missing in this gathering: humor. There wasn't much to be laughing about this year. The anniversary of their cursed lives began shortly after this night. Between the vampires, Niam, his twin Owain, and Cadrus, it looked as if there were no blood or psychic energy to make them lifelike. For the Weres - Cuin, Finn, and Dylan, they looked as if they hadn't hunted in at least a week, so disheartened were their expressions. As for the two other Wraith Walkers, Elathan and Donal they were the most somber ghosts he'd ever known. It wasn't like Miach had much to speak on, considering he was just turning substantial for once on this most unusual of nights. "Why are we here, deartháir?” Cuin asked, his gravelly voice flowing over the night air. "Why did you make us come back home of all places?" The others grunted at Cuin's question each noting the validity of it. Here is where their curse had been invoked in this dark, yet sacred nemeton. The crisp air seemed to caress each of their souls as the memory of The Morrigan had once blessed them in their lives. The lonely hoot of an owl reminded them of why they were there. "We were due to come back. Tonight is the night of Cerridwen, the Crone. For too long we've been separated from the old ways. There are many out there who claim to walk the path we have walked for many centuries. Tonight, we celebrate Samhain." Dylan, one of the youngest brothers, spoke up, his voice clear and with a lightness that spoke of riding the breezes as a Were-Eagle. "You know Miach, I miss our old ways, but we're still cursed. What good can it do to give obeisance to the gods when we're not considered truly Druids anymore?" "But we are, regardless of what's happened," Owain replied. His tone was of longing and regret. His eyes were a dark hazel in the firelight. He hadn't fed, honoring the sacredness of the night, the beginning of a new year, a new legacy. He gestured to the trees surrounding the meadow. "We are Dire Nemeton. Our heritage is that of being the intermediaries between gods and men.

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We judge, we heal, we tell the tales of long ago. When has that ever stopped?" All nodded as the point was driven home. Even though The Morrigan blighted them, all nine continued to serve as they were trained since a young age. None had strayed from their path as a Druid to their people and to each other. Now they were home for the first time since the destruction of two nearby villages and in each of their minds, they heard the unending screams of the past. Tonight was a night to lay the past to rest and look towards a future, one that might contain resolution. A snap of the log in the fire drew their attention to the center area. It was time to begin their ritual. It was time to open the barrier between this realm and the Otherworld and see what may come. Without saying a word, each brother took the hand of the one on either side of them. Once they formed the circle, Miach led the chant that would allow them to begin the opening. What they wanted was something that'd show that they were allowed to walk not only as Marauders against evil, but also as the Druids, they were in their heart of hearts, regardless of their current forms. The wind settled as the chanting grew louder and seemed to amplify in the deepest forest once known as Caer Arianrhod, home of the Willow Grove. "Gwyn ei fyd y dyn sin bydios. Blessed is the man that lives. Ymholiad arweiniad. We ask for guidance. Mewn cynnau dadolwch cynhorthwy. Within the light we beg forgiveness and relief." The small blaze before them burned brightly as a cawing of a raven sounded nearby. The sound startled none of them. They expected to hear from at least one goddess this evening. Though it sang of Morrigu, they knew she was unlikely to heed their call. As the wind howled, swirling the smoke between each of them a voice rang out in answer. Macha replied, her words bringing both solace and more. "You've asked for forgiveness that has been given. We cannot issue it again. For relief, you know what you must seek. In your hearts, you fear for the worst, but know, the Daughters of Morrigu live." "How can that be?” Donal demanded, standing as his gaze took in the dark haired woman that approached their camp. "They were all destroyed. We saw the village burned to nothing!" "Seek within the flickers of the fire, Donal Maraigh. I do not seek to lie for you or to you. See what's within the fflamlu a gwir, flame of truth.” Her voice sang out with the power of those dead in battle. The raven landed on her shoulder, its wings blending into her hair. A battle goddess she was indeed. A gasp was heard as Owain reached out to the fire. "She's alive. I can feel her. Why?” He pointed at the swirling face within the flickering flames. "Tonight is the night of many chances, many choices. Both life and death meet tonight and the old things put aside."

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Eight brothers gazed into the bonfire, each saw the woman whom they fantasized about for many centuries but had given up for lost. The ninth brother stood apart, his feet planted squarely on the ground, his gaze never wavering from Macha's. Her dark eyes held a touch of sadness in them and this one Druid thought he knew intuitively why. Niam glimpsed at the woman dancing within the flames, wielding a dagger as one a born warrior. He watched her fight unseen enemies only to fall before his feet as he unleashed the full fury upon them. Even with her, he was who he was, that hadn't changed. Cadrus watched as he drank of her energy and her laughter growing as he did so. Tapping his nose then dashing off, he watched the flame woman make her way through the labyrinth. Donal stared fascinated at the two women who moved towards him then join into one. His mind twirled over the meaning, and tried to comprehend it as they both kissed him telling him his nature was separate from him. Finn stroked his beard while watching a lady walk from him. When he held out his hand, she nodded and waited. She never gave nor took, very unusual. Yet it was her eyes that bewitched him. Even in the flame, they were a bright blue of the heavens. In her hand was a rope to deal with issues. Elathan watched for a second then glanced away. Slowly he turned back to the smoky blaze as she waved to him. There was understanding in her eyes. He had never known such compassion before. The blaze grew as Macha directed the growth of each ember and of each spark. Her eyes were lit by the light of the ancients and the knowledge of what would be. The lone Druid watched only her, never letting his sight go to the roaring blaze. Dylan shook his head as his vision unfolded. Never before had anyone risked so much for so little. Could he handle this? Cuin grabbed a flame and balanced it carefully on his hand. As it danced, he swayed to its siren call. Finally, after noting the vision given to him, he cupped his hands and blew out the flame. In his eyes were questions always to be unanswered. The abstaining Druid again noted the look of passing sadness and acceptance in Macha's eyes. Only then did he realize that perhaps his worst fears would be his downfall.

Though promised

redemption, it was never tallied in full. Too many loopholes and no room to bargain. He had to know. They needed to be sure. "We don't know if we'll ever find them, do we? Or even when?” His voice was rough, harsh, and curt, even to a goddess. "Truly, you never expected it to be easy did you?" she responded, a small laugh escaping her pouty mouth. "But you did not look to see your chosen Daughter. Look, for I grant that in measure."

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Miach shook his head. "No, I shall not. We know the price paid, you and I. Tell Morrigu we thank her for this blessing, but I know the price. It's ever been what she set on the blessed plain long ago. Remind her it'll be paid." Macha strolled to his side and gently cradled his right hand in hers. As her pale white fingers caressed his palm, Miach refused to respond or react. For too many years, he'd bore the burdens of being the leader to give in so easily. Though he wanted to see the possibility, he admitted that his mind could easily conjure her. Only thing was that he refused to give into the need, seeking reassurance in evidence, not just faith that Macha was asking him to give. As Brehon, he was trained to be not only judge, but also in the ways of divination, law, and diplomacy. Those skills were never taken from them. None had done so, knowing that seeking selfanswers would result in error. He withheld himself so there would be no temptation. That was the last thing he needed to give into the one thing he wasn't allowed to have, yet. "She'll be strong. Will say she needs no help from any man. Yet, she's never known happiness or love like you've experienced," Macha continued, her voice becoming singsong and pitched higher than normal. He knew she was beginning the wail of power. He had to prevent them from hearing that cry. That cry could spell doom for them all. "Speak no more lest you pull the call of the bansidhe to us, Macha. You've come and done your job," Miach acknowledged reluctantly. He knew how Macha could go from helpful to bloodthirsty with no reason needed. "I doubt that Morrigu means for you to harm us this night." "You know your mistress well, but remember I also command thee. Eldest of the Night Druids, you'd do well to recall that.” Smiling mysteriously, Macha kissed Miach's cheek, giving him her personal marked blessing. "She awaits you know. She always awaits for she knows not what is expected. How little she knows." The brothers watched Macha disappear into the darkness before facing to their eldest brother. Finn placed a hand over Miach's palm. "Don't think on it. She knows nothing. Not even she can know it all." "Just tricks of the flame," Elathan sighed, closing his eyes. "Macha provided us the tricks of flame, just as Brighid once did. There was nothing there but what we wanted to see, was there?" Each brother remembered their vision, placing it in their memories for the lonely times, the sad times. They each experienced part of the pain that would befall the night as they find their release from the curse. And at the end, they realized the limits. Only now could they begin comprehending the price for release and the trap they could never be free from.

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For who can love someone who can never be restored to humanity but will always remain as they are? They closed with song, their voices united as one as they sang praises to the gods and to the Mother, Maiden, and Crone. For as Cerridwen controls the winter, in the approaching months would come Arianrhod, the Silver Wheel that springs eternal rebirth and hope. The fire died on their last word and the wind ceased its chilly blowing. For now only the darkness of the Celtic New Year remained. The brothers walked back to their tents, and each looked back over their shoulders. Only one remained behind. Miach stood there, staring into the darkness and accepting the price of absolution for all and for himself. With this price, their debt of failure would be paid in full. There would be some kind of release so they wouldn’t have to continue as they were. With this night, they had been reborn in some small way. They had hope where once there was none. But in it all,...the reality was now clear. For though they were hundreds of years old, they weren't immortal, they were never made immortal. They could die.