Blood Beyond Darkness (23 page)

“Yet.” My mom snorted. Humor. The situation seemed better than I hoped.

“Dinner’s ready.” I stepped closer.

“Okay.” Mom came to me, taking my hand in hers. “I’ll see you both inside.” She gave my hand a squeeze before heading away from us, back to the house.

When she left, I rounded on Eli. “So?”

He walked to me, widening his stance, and his hands came to my hips. “Your mother will never like me. She will always want better for you. But I think we have come to a ceasefire.”

I nestled myself into him. “That’s all I can ask.” His lips came down on mine, sparking my body. When we broke apart, I asked: “How are you feeling? Has the curse started to affect you yet?”

“I don’t know. I feel restless, but I don’t know if it’s the spell or because I am anxious about the time here.”

“How do you feel being back in the Otherworld? You wanted it for so long. Is it strange to return?”

“Yeah, it is odd to be here again.” He pressed his lips together in thought. “Part of me feels like I can finally relax, that I am home. But it’s not exactly what I remember. My memories built it up to something no longer fitting with who I am.” He rubbed his brow. “I’m also realizing there are things on Earth’s realm I would miss.”

I nuzzled closer to him, kissing his lips gently. “Like peanut butter.”

“Yep, I would definitely miss that.” He nipped at my bottom lip.

“What else?”

“My bike,” he mumbled between kisses. “And you on it. Both my girls between my legs.”

“I’d miss your Harley, too. When we get back, we should give it a tribute.” With that sentence, ice filled my lungs. He would not be the one leaving Earth’s realm in the end. I would be sitting on a throne in the Light side without him.

Oh, hell, no.

“Your idea makes me want to start now. We can add the bike in later.” He shut down my thoughts as his kiss deepened, his mouth desperate against mine.

“We. Have. To. Get. Back.” I got out in air breaks.

“In a minute.” He nipped at my bottom lip. “I got you something.”

Leaning away, I sputtered. “You got me something? Like a birthday present?”

“Uhhh ... sure.” He kissed me again. Sarcasm thick in his tone.

“Okay, what is my non-birthday present?”

He pulled away from me and lifted his shirt.

“I do appreciate the sentiment, but I can have that package any day.” I winked at him.

“Damn, woman, have you already grown weary of my body?” He shook his head, grabbing at something stuffed in the waist of his pants. “As much as I think I’m a better gift, I got you this.” Unceremoniously, Eli plopped a sheathed blade in my hand.

I stared at the supple leather before sliding the six-inch knife from its cover. The blade curved slightly and was designed with delicate and beautifully woven patterns and motifs. My fingers couldn’t help reach out and touch the etchings. It hummed under my hand, coming to life. Pictures flashed too quickly through my mind, but power and pride filled my chest. Instantly, I felt the connection. It was made for me. It claimed me as I claimed it.

Air sucked through my lips. “It’s beautiful.”

“It’s goblin-made with the finest Fae metal.” Eli kept his eyes on the weapon. “It will fit perfectly in your boot.”

My head wrenched up to look into his face. Some girls might hate getting a dagger for a present, but I loved it. He had made it especially for me. I dove into him, my arms wrapping around his neck. “Thank you.”

“I knew you were the kind of girl who would prefer something able to gut a Fae rather than getting flowers.”

My grin widened. “You know it.” I pulled his mouth to mine, showing him my appreciation.

“I say, since I gave it to you, there should be some unwritten promise you can’t use it on me, no matter how much you want to.”

“Oh, I never make those types of promises.” My mouth returned to his; our kisses deepened.

“
Lasssss? Purtty waddy,” Cal’s voice slurred from the forest. “Mr. Marky saed no mourn mead till ewe comb my back.”

I leaned my forehead against Eli’s with a chuckle.

“I am gonna kill that little flying Barbie,” Eli growled.

“Come on. There’s alcohol and cake.” I tugged on his hand as I slipped my new present into my boot. It fit exactly like he said.

“Only way to deal with your family.”

“If you’re not going to be nice, I will demand we play pin the tail on the ass.”

Halfway through dinner, the door opened and Torin came through. He grabbed the empty chair and sat down. “Happy birthday, Ember.” He nodded at me.

“Thank you,” I replied, a little stunned at Torin’s greeting. Thara beamed at him as she filled his plate. I wanted to tell him I was glad he returned, and it wasn’t the same without him here, but I kept silent. His being here was a big step for him. Eli sat far on the other side, but they were at the same table together, sharing a meal. It meant so much. Happiness ballooned in my heart as I looked around the table at all the faces so dear to me. Laughter and stories overflowed the room. Every one of these people belonged to my family. With every new person who became part of my world, my fortified heart opened wider to receive them.

Later when the cake was brought out, Cal plunked down on my head, pretending to be a birthday hat. The more I tried to get him off, the more he threatened to poop on my head, so I gave in. But I drew the line at people singing. Those not born on Earth were familiar with the annoying tune, but the Fae world did not have the same birthday song as humans. For which I was grateful.

Restless energy bobbed Eli’s knee relentlessly against mine, and he stirred in his seat. He wasn’t usually fidgety.

I glanced over at him questioningly.
The curse?

He answered me with a shift nod. The spell was causing him to be uncomfortable. It was time to go. We had already been away longer than we should have, but I found it hard to leave. Today was the first time I had a birthday with all the people I loved, and sadly I knew it would probably be the last. The night was amazing, but a war sat on the other side of it—coiled and waiting, like a snake.

“We have to return,” Eli whispered in my ear. I nodded, the smile falling from my face. “You have another gift waiting for you in your room later, if it makes you feel better.” He nuzzled my neck, placing my hand high on his thigh.

“Eh.” I shrugged, playing indifference.

“You know that is only going to cause me to be more determined.”

My eyes widened. “Really? I would never have thought you could so easily be manipulated.”

“So full of crap.”

I winked.

Cal poked his finger into my head. “Sorry, everyone. They do this a lot. Please continue on as if they are not here because they certainly aren’t aware of us and how awkward they can make a room.” My response was to flick him off. He tumbled into the air. “You are so going to get pooped on later.”

“Try it pixie, and I will tell
Sinnie you were the one who unmade every bed and hid all the sheets in the house so you could see her.”

His eyes turned the size of saucers. “You wouldn’t.”

“Oh, I would. And she was pissed. I remember her threatening to disembowel the culprit if she ever found out who it was.”

Cal glowered at me. “You win this one, girlie, but only because I am more scared of her
than you.”

“Smart man.” I chuckled. “I hate to bring it up, but we have to go. I’m sure it’s way past the time we should have started back.” I pushed my chair from the table.

“Mom, walk me out.” I took her hand in mine. I hugged everyone, with a double for Mark. Kennedy’s eyes filled with tears having to leave Ryan. She was much more aware than he this might be our last moments together.

“My lady?” Simmons came level with my gaze.

“You need to stay here,” I said. “Protect my family. Lars will call for you soon.”

“Yes, my lady.” Simmons bowed.

“Why do you call me that? Why have you always treated me like your queen? Did you know about the prophecy?”

“No, my lady, but I always knew you were meant for great things.” Simmons tilted his head. “I knew the moment we met you in the woods you were someone special. There was no question I would follow you.”

A lump knotted my throat. “Thank you, Simmons. It has been an honor having you as my friend. And soldier.” He stood taller, brushing his fighter pilot’s jacket. “You are a fierce and faithful warrior.”

From the tips of his ears to his bare toes, Simmons blushed.

“Oh, crap on a beetle butter biscuit, is the syrup poured thick enough, girlie?” Cal flew next to Simmons, his wings carving a spark in the dense Fae air, which twinkled every time his wings flapped.

I swiped Cal out of the air and gave him a sloppy smooch. He turned lobster red and sputtered, tongue-tied at my action.

“That will shut him up.” Simmons grinned from ear to ear and flew to me giving me a high-five. His little hand hit the middle of my palm. “Always a good thing.”

Smiling, I headed out of the house. Cal flew quietly toward the cave. Kennedy and Eli started to follow him, while I drifted back with my mom. “Lars and I both agree we want you to stay here during the battle.”

Mom shook her head. “No. No, way.”

“Mom, listen to me. We both know this fight is going to be bad. People are going to die. And we’re wise enough to know one of them will probably be me.”

Lily grabbed for my other hand. “Don’t say that.”

“Admit it or not, it’s the truth. Mark lost you once, and he barely made it without falling apart. I don’t have a choice in fighting, but you do. He will not be able handle losing us both. He has already been through too much.”

Liquid filled Mom’s eyes, her voice choking. “I will not lose you again, either. I can’t sit back and do nothing.”

“I have some of the best warriors beside me. I love you, but you are not a fighter. And I can’t handle if anything happens to you. And what about Mark? Please, Mom, stay for me. For him.” I gulped past the tightening in my throat. She looked at the ground, hesitation in her determined armor. “Plus, the layer between the worlds will be thin at best, and what if Aneira starts breaking holes into it? You might have to defend your place. Torin and Thara are going to be with us, leaving only Castien to protect Mark and Ryan.”

Mom’s head drew up, her orange-brown eyes reflecting the moonlight. Deep in them I saw the struggle raging inside her heart to either remain with Mark or go with me.

“Do stay for me, please?” I begged.

“Ember, do you know what you are asking of me?” A tear slid down her face. “You are my daughter. You will always be my first instinct to protect.”

“I know, but there is nothing you can do to help me once we are on the battlefield. You being there will only distract me. Do you think I could continue on if anything happened to you?” I dropped her hands, reaching for her shoulders. “Stay here and defend the man we both love. Being here is how you can help me. I want to believe you two will have your happily-ever-after. Let me have this hope.”

A small cry twisted out of my mother’s chest.

“Promise me.” I tightened my grip.

She stared at me, and her eyes appeared tormented. Then, slowly a resolve flowed from them. “Yes, I promise.”

I yanked her to me, my arms crushing her. “Thank you,” I whispered.

We held tightly to each other; words were no longer needed. She pulled back, went up on her toes, and kissed my forehead. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

“You kick the bitch’s ass for me, all right?”

I laughed. “I will.”

Mom’s eyes watered again. “Aisling would be so proud of the woman you’ve become. You are the best thing to have happened to me. I am so thankful for you and every second you blessed my life. Live. Live for all those who love you.” She stepped away, taking my cheek in her hand. Her eyes quickly darted to where Eli stood. “All I could ask is for someone to love you wholeheartedly. And he does.”

We hugged again. With a heart-wrenching sob, she turned from me and headed to Mark on the porch. He took her into his arms as she wept into his chest. He kissed the top of her head, his eyes full of love and sadness.

Turning back, I headed for the tunnel. I had to leave now or I never would. When I reached Eli’s side, his thumb came and brushed away the salty water pooling under my eyes. “You will see them again.”

“We will all be with each other again.” Kennedy reached for my hand, pulling me into the passageway.

“What the hell took you so long?” Lorcan demanded the moment we walked out of the cavern. “I actually thought about coming in and getting you guys.”

“Your presence would have gone over well.” I brushed at my back, feeling the whisper-thin tickle of cobwebs covering me.

Cal zoomed from the hood of my jacket, wiping frantically at his head and wings.

“Like I give a shit,” Lorcan grumbled. His body twitched and jerked, reminding me of Eli’s knee at dinner. “You guys were there much longer than you were supposed to be.”

“Getting lonely and scared here by yourself, Lorcan?” Eli quipped.

“Yeah, that’s it.” Lorcan looked at the sky.

“Sorry, we had a lot to catch up on.” Kennedy touched his arm lightly. “Thank you for waiting.”

He scoffed. “Not like I had a choice.”

“You didn’t have to come at all,” I stated as I walked past. I had only taken a few steps when I heard a humming sound. “What’s the noise?”

“Not sure, but in this forest probably nothing good.” Lorcan started to trek through the foliage. “Let’s get out of here.”

For once I agreed with him.

The longer we walked, the louder the buzzing became. As I broke through some bushes, I heard Cal stammer, “Um ... Ember?” He hovered midair with his attention ahead. My step faltered, and I came to a complete stop.

“Holy shit,” Lorcan said from behind me.

A few feet beyond where we stood were thousands of lamprog. Light flickered off them in pulsing beats and ignited the night around us, making everything glow and twinkle in the dark forest. The drone of their wings rattled at my chest and limbs, consuming the air.

Simmons’ warning of their breeding habits and timeframe steamrolled back into my mind. It was several nights before Samhain. A full moon.

Crap
.

“I remember these things from when I was a kid.” Eli spoke next to me. “We avoided the forest on nights they were procreating. Mean little shits.”

Kennedy, too busy staring at them, lost her balance as she took a step. She tumbled down the mound we were standing on and crashed into the wall of lamprog, disrupting the courting bugs.

“Kennedy!” Lorcan yelled and leaped below to reach her. The firebugs sensed the threat; their already passionate mood turned furious. A wave of bugs crashed onto Lorcan and Kennedy, while more headed for me and Eli.

Kennedy let out a cry as the bugs bit into her.

“Cal!” I yelled for him to retreat, but instead, he pulled out his sword, slicing at the angry insects. There were too many to fight. Eli jumped down next to Lorcan, trying to get Kennedy out of the swarm. The bugs quickly surrounded us. I plunged next to my friends. I pressed my lips together, shielding my face with my arm. They flew at us from every direction, climbing into our clothes. Welts from their bites bubbled over my skin. Strands of my hair got tangled as bugs caught in its tendrils struggled to free themselves. Numbness zipped through my limbs.

“Run!” Eli pushed me forward. Lorcan picked Kennedy up, her arms swollen with bites, her body limp in his arms. Lorcan tucked his face into her and barreled through, insects bouncing off his head and shoulders as he ran ahead.

My gaze darted around. “Where is Cal?” I could barely speak; my lips were going numb as more fangs delved into my skin. A small body lying on the ground a distance away caught my attention. “Cal!” I propelled my way through the storm to get to him. My anesthetized legs struggled to move, like I was pushing through mud.

“I’ll get him.” Eli grabbed me. “You get out of here. Now!” He didn’t wait for my response before he turned deeper into the throng. It was hard to do, but I forced myself to do what he said. My shoes skidded across the dirt; my legs wanted to buckle under my weight. Stumbling and tripping the whole way, I finally cleared the horde of bugs. I fell on the other side of a small stream next to Lorcan and Kennedy. The water seemed to be a barricade, keeping the bugs on one side of the brook.

“Where’s Eli?” Lorcan demanded the moment I collided onto the damp embankment.

“He went to get Cal,” I muttered through lifeless lips. Forcing myself to sit, I looked back across the water. “He should be right behind me.”

It was only a few beats, but it felt like forever as we waited for Eli to break through the barrage of bugs. Nothing.
It shouldn’t take him so long.
My legs were shaking as I tried to pull myself up, ready to go back after him.

Before I could move, Lorcan stood up and was already crossing the stream. “Eli?” he bellowed, his arm covering his face as he dove back in, the mass engulfing him.

“Are you all right?” I faced Kennedy, trying to distract myself from running after Lorcan.
He will get him. He will.

Kennedy’s head flopped on the ground as she tried to look at me. It lolled around in a form of a nod. The poison affected her more than it did us. We were from this world. She was still human, and her body reacted differently.

“That was a yes, right?” I brushed back the hair off her forehead. My attention again fell to where Lorcan disappeared. Panic crept into my heart. Normally, lamprog poison was nothing more than a bee-sting, if you weren’t allergic; but if a swarm as big as this attacked you at once? How many small doses of poison could a body take before it couldn’t process anymore? With wobbly legs I stood and trudged into the middle of the stream. The panic turned into full blown terror.

“Eli?” I screamed. “Lorcan?”

No one answered. My feet plunged onward, taking me to the barrier of the buzzing swarm. I took another unsteady step, ready to plunge in when a massive force slammed into me, knocking me on my butt. Lorcan twisted to the side, the limp body he carried slipped off his shoulder and crashed into the stream. Lorcan fell face first next to Eli. Water and pebbles soared into the air as the two big frames hit. Lorcan groaned and rolled over. Both he and Eli sprawled on their backs, the trickle of water finding its way around the new dams their bodies created.

Kennedy grunted. I could tell she was trying to sit up, but doing a poor job of it. I rolled over and crawled to them, my hands and knees plodding through the water as I placed myself between the two men.

“Eli?” My hands went to his face. A low sound came from his chest. I let out a relieved sigh. “Oh, thank God you’re okay.”

“Yeah, I am fine, too. No, really it’s sweet of you for asking. Thanks.” Lorcan blinked deliberately, his gaze on the sky above.

“I hoped you were in there long enough they would at least numb your mouth for a while,” I snorted.

“No such luck,” Eli mumbled. When I looked back at him, his eyes were open but unfocused.

“Nice, brother, see if I save your ass again.”

“Where is Cal? Did you get him?” If Eli and Lorcan were this affected, then how would a six-inch pixie handle it?

Eli’s lips smacked together, as he tried to move his arm. Neither worked. He grabbed his shirt and tried to lift the fabric. My fingers went to his to help, and he showed me my answer. Tucked in the sheath where Eli had hidden my knife, between his pants and hip, was Cal. He was unconscious, but I could see the tiny flutter of his chest. He was breathing. I dipped my head on Eli’s chest in respite. Cal was all right.

“If you
...” Eli stopped. I sat back. “Ever tell him. He was this close. To my dick. I will chain you up.”

“
Hmmmm ... foreplay.” I leaned to him and kissed his forehead.

Movement on the bank caught my attention. Kennedy had gotten herself into a sitting position and sluggishly crawled into the creek, stopping on the other side of Lorcan before falling next to him. Her body facing his, her head even with his shoulder. It didn’t look like any of us were ready to move for a bit. I placed my head on Eli’s chest, curling in next to him. The water actually felt soothing against the bites. Gazing at the stars, I found the silence peaceful. Even the humming of the
lamprog was a hypnotic sound lulling me deeper. Sandwiched between two warm bodies, the soft trickling of water, and Eli’s heartbeat steady in my ear, it didn’t take long before my lids became heavy. The poison pulled all of us into deep lassitude.

“Grimmel?” I called the moment my lashes raised.

“Baby fire,” Grimmel said from the shoulder of the dwarf. The little man’s back was to me as he pitched old straw out of a cell, grunting with the effort.

“Did you find it?” I asked.

Grimmel’s sleek black wings ruffled. “Flame doubt?”

“No. If anyone could find it, you could.”

Grimmel fluttered, his feathers puffing out. The dwarf continued to work not aware or simply uncaring his raven talked to nothing.

“Can you show me?”

Dizziness came over me as I plunged from this room to another. The space was dark except for the glowing sword hanging midair in the middle of the space. The area had only one window with thick, wooden shutters barring any light from getting in. Doors leading in and out were in the far corner.

“What is this place?”

Grimmel’s clawed feet, curled around my shoulder as he landed. “I know not.”

“Then how will I find it?”

“Follow hidden paths. Down below world. False night will light way.”

“What? What the hell does that mean?”

“No time. Go, Fire. Before squall unearths you.”

“Oh, no!” Kennedy’s voice pierced the gentle morning air. “Guys, we fell asleep. Get up. We have to go!”

My eyes flew open at the disturbance in my sleep.
Morning
? I sprang up, my soaking hair hitting my back in a clump. Kennedy and I dueled in our wide eyed, “Oh, shit” expressions.

“Eli, wake up.” I shoved at his chest. He didn’t stir. “Crap on ash bark. We are in so much trouble.” If it were morning here, who knows how many hours had passed on Earth? I hoped Samhain had not come yet. Surely, Grimmel would never let me sleep so long.

Eli groggily turned over on his side, a side that held a pixie. “No, you don’t.” I grabbed the sheath from his waist. Cal was curled in it snoring. I strapped the cover to my belt loop. “Wake up.” I splashed water on Eli’s face. His eyes sprung open. He looked around in confusion before sitting up.

“I thought it was all a dream.” He rubbed at his face, water dripping off and slipping down his wrist.