Embrace the Darkness (32 page)

It was his means of assuring her that he would never take her blood against her will. That she would have the power to deny him at any time.

Her stomach clenched as she studied the sheer beauty of his face.

“If you bite me, I'll never last,” she said.

The dark eyes shimmered with pure male satisfaction. She couldn't help but chuckle. He might be a vampire, but there was plenty of testosterone flowing through his body.

She gave a slow nod and gasped as his fangs sank deep into her flesh. Her gasp wasn't from pain. It was pure joy.

Grasping the covers beneath her, Shay rasped in a deep breath as she felt him feed deeply from her body. With every suck, her body writhed in building pleasure. He was touching nothing but her leg but her breath was coming in small pants, and her lower body was clenching with a familiar pressure.

She knew better than to fight the rapidly building climax.

It was as inevitable as a wave crashing against the shore.

“Viper.”

Reaching down she tangled her fingers in his hair as the explosion rocked through her body.

Holy…freaking…cow. Stars shot before her eyes. The earth moved. Time halted.

It was as it always was. Perfect.

Even if she lived an eternity she would never become accustomed to the sheer power of their passions.

With a heartfelt groan she sank into the mattress and with a smooth motion Viper was lifting himself and sliding into her with a fierce thrust.

She clutched at his shoulders, wrapping her legs about his waist as he rode her with swift strokes, his steady motion quickly reigniting her own desire.

“I love you, pet,” he rasped as her nails raked down his back. “I love every beautiful inch of you.”

Shay smiled as his soft words brushed her cheek. Who would have thought that she would ever hold a vampire in her arms? Or give him the heart she had thought buried forever?

And who would have thought that she would ever come to accept that being half Shalott and half human was a rather wonderful thing to be?

Tightening her grasp on the man who had so profoundly changed her life, Shay allowed the sweeping pleasure to reach its climax just as Viper gave a rasping cry and buried himself deeply inside her.

He collapsed beside her and tugged her into his arms, his lips brushing her tangled curls.

“Sorry about your new nightgown, pet,” he murmured.

He didn't sound a bit sorry, she ruefully acknowledged, glancing toward the satin gown that had been ripped beyond repair. In fact he sounded positively pleased with himself.

“Don't worry about it.” She snuggled more comfortably against him. “I can always go shopping again tomorrow.”

“Tomorrow?” His arms tightened. “You do know that there's a most wonderful invention. It's called online shopping…”

 

Waiting until Shay tumbled into sleep Viper carefully untangled from her arms and slipped on his robe. A smile touched his face as he gazed down at the slender woman who had managed to become the most important thing in the world to him.

Even after weeks of having her in his bed he still found himself waking with a tiny jolt of delight to discover her in his arms.

He had never been so utterly at peace or content in his entire existence, and yet there was a nagging ache that he couldn't completely put out of his mind.

Moving toward the window Viper stared into the dark. Among the trees he could sense Santiago and the other young vampires who diligently patrolled the grounds. The threat to Shay was over, but his position as clan chief ensured that he never took his security for granted.

There would be no more nasty surprises if he could help it.

Lost in his thoughts Viper was caught off guard when a soft voice suddenly intruded into the silence.

“You should go to him, you know.”

Turning toward the woman on the bed he gave a lift of his brows. “I thought you were asleep.”

Shay smiled lazily, looking entirely too inviting lying naked on the golden cover with her hair spread like a curtain of satin around her.

“Viper, go to him.”

“Go to who?” he demanded as he began to walk toward the bed. His body was already responding to the sight of her. He might be technically dead, but he wasn't buried.

A naked woman in his bed was an opportunity not to be missed.

“Styx.”

He halted in astonishment. “How did you know?”

“I'm not just another pretty face.”

He allowed his gaze to slowly drift over her exposed curves. “Oh, I'm well aware of that,” he huffed. “Still, I didn't know you could read minds.”

A charming blush touched her cheeks as she tugged the cover over her body. Viper heaved a rueful sigh. Damn. It was a near sin to cover such beauty.

“It doesn't take much skill to realize that you have been troubled since we left the caves,” she said. “And that you must hold regrets for what happened there.”

Viper grimaced. This woman was beginning to know him far too well.

“It was by my hand that the leader of the vampires is now dead. Styx must take command if we are not to tumble into chaos.”

She frowned. “Do you think he will?”

He gave a slow shake of his head. Like all vampires Styx could be stubborn, arrogant, and inclined to retreat within himself when he was troubled.

If he concluded that he was to blame for the Anasso's death, or that he was somehow unsuitable to take command, he would disappear into the mist and no one would be able to find him.

That couldn't be allowed to happen.

Whatever his discomfort or misgivings, Styx was now their leader.

“I suppose that's the question,” he said softly.

She regarded him for a long moment, her expression somber.

“Go to him.”

 

In the end it was nearly a week before Viper found himself walking along the high bluffs that framed the Mississippi River. For all his concern for Styx he had his own clan to supervise, and he had neglected his business far too much over the past month.

At last it was Shay's insistent bullying that had sent him to the remote farmhouse. She had claimed that he was making her nuts with his nightly broodings. And that she would banish him to the cellars unless he confronted his old friend and eased his mind.

That was a fate he refused to even contemplate.

Leaving Chicago he had driven through the night and parked his car near the highway. He preferred to walk the narrow path that wound its way through the sparse woods. He still wasn't sure what he intended to say to Styx. Or if the proud vampire would even consent to speak with him.

He was still a distance from the farmhouse when a shadow shifted from behind a tree and he was face-to-face with the looming, raven-haired vampire.

There was nothing to read on the bronzed face, and Viper warily raised his hands in a gesture of peace.

He was technically trespassing on the land of another clan chief. Styx would be quite within his rights to have him executed.

“Is this a welcoming committee, or are you intending to kill me?” he demanded, his tone light but his body clenched to react to any attack.

Styx shrugged, his fingers absently toying with the medallion about his neck.

“I could ask you the same thing. There must be a powerful reason for a newly mated vampire to be so far away from his lair.”

“The power of simple friendship and concern for you, old companion,” Viper retorted.

“Concern?” The dark eyes narrowed. “Did you fear I might follow in my master's footsteps and develop an addiction to those pathetic humans?”

Viper stepped forward. Around them the night air swirled with an icy breeze, tugging at their cloaks and whispering through the bare trees.

Thankfully, vampires didn't feel the cold.

“My only fear is that you would remain here brooding and blaming yourself for the tragedy of the Anasso.” He reached out to lay his hand on a broad shoulder. “I love you like a brother, but you have an unfortunate tendency to believe that you should be infallible.”

“Far from infallible.” The dark eyes flashed with a guilt so deep that it made Viper flinch. “I nearly allowed your mate to be destroyed.”

“Shay is well, and gloriously pleased with her new mate. As am I,” he insisted. None of them could afford to have Styx crippled by his sense of failure. They needed him strong and prepared to take command. “The past is done with, Styx. Now it is time to look to the future. The future of us all.”

“And that's why you're here?” he demanded.

“You are now our leader. I wish you to know that you have my loyalty, and the loyalty of my clan.”

His expression hardened. “It's not a position I ever desired.”

Viper couldn't help but smile. “Fate rarely cares about our own desires. It unfolds as it will.”

Styx gave a snort of annoyance. “I have always detested philosophers.”

“Then let me speak plainly.” Viper's hand tightened on his friend's shoulder, his expression somber. “We need you, Styx. It is respect for you and your Ravens that has kept the vampires from open warfare, and, more importantly, it is fear of you that has kept the other demons at bay. If you do not take command then we both know that all we fought for will be lost.”

Styx clenched his hands at his side. “Why me? You are perfectly capable of taking command.”

Viper slowly shook his head. “If anyone else attempted to take control, then every petty vampire in hope of gaining power would rise up in challenge.” He pointed out with irrefutable logic. “No. You are the natural successor, and only you can keep the treaties intact.”

“Damn you, Viper,” the older vampire breathed.

“I am only saying what you already know.”

“That doesn't mean I have to like it.”

Viper gave a sudden chuckle. “No, you don't have to like it.”

An air of weariness settled about the grim vampire. “Return to your mate, Viper. I will do my duty.”

“And you will call if you have need of me?” Viper pressed.

“I will call,” he grudgingly conceded.

Content that Styx would indeed do his duty, Viper stepped back and offered a wicked grin.

“You know there are bound to be a few perks to your new position.”

Styx frowned. “Perks?”

“There won't be a female vampire around who won't be eager to share the bed of our newest Anasso.”

Styx gave a lift of one brow. “I don't need to be the Anasso to have a female in my bed.”

Viper laughed as he tossed back his cloak to reveal the intricate tattoo that scrolled along his inner forearm. It was the mark of his mating with Shay.

“Just don't forget that females offer more risk than all the demons put together.”

The older vampire regarded Viper as if he feared he had lost his mind.

“That's a risk I need never fear, old companion. There are some of us who are wise enough to avoid such obvious traps,” he said with absolute conviction.

Viper merely smiled, remembering his own firm belief that he would never be foolish enough to become mated.

“You do know what they say, my friend. The best laid plans of mice and vampires…”

Please turn the page for an exciting sneak peak of the next Guardians of Eternity novel DARKNESS EVERLASTING, coming in May 2008!

As far as nightclubs went, the Viper Pit was by far the most expensive, the most elegant, and the most exclusive in the entire city of Chicago.

Oddly enough, it was also the most obscure.

There was no listing in the phonebook. No gaudy ads on billboards, or flashing neon lights to reveal its location. In fact, the entire building was hidden behind a subtle glamour.

Anyone who was
anyone
knew how to find the place. And those
anyones
didn't include humans.

Moving among the marble pillars and glittering fountains were various demons, all indulging in a variety of nefarious activities. Gambling, drinking, exotic dancing, discrete—and not so discrete—orgies.

All of which cost a small fortune.

Delicious pastimes no doubt, but on this cold December night the vampire known as Styx was not interested in the activities available below the private balcony. Or even in the various demons who paused to perform a deep bow in his direction.

Instead he regarded his companion with a measure of resignation.

At a glance the two of them couldn't have been more different.

Well, that wasn't precisely accurate.

After all, they were both tall and blessed with the muscular bodies of all vampires. And they both possessed dark eyes and the prerequisite fangs. But that's where the similarities ended.

The younger vampire, Viper, had come from the northern Slavic lands and possessed the pale silver hair and even paler skin of his ancestors. Styx, on the other hand, had come from the hot lands of Latin America, and even after his transformation maintained the bronzed skin and proud angular features of the Aztecs.

Tonight he had put aside his traditional robe and chose black leather pants, thigh high boots, and black silk shirt. He had assumed the garb would make him less noticeable as he traveled the streets of Chicago. Unfortunately, there was no way for a six-foot-five vampire with raven hair braided to his knees to go unnoticed. Especially from the mortal women who held no defense against the thrall of vampires.

He had gathered nearly a half dozen adoring females as he had walked through the dark streets. At last he had taken to the rooftops to avoid their persistent attentions.

By the gods, he wished he could have stayed hidden in his caves, he acknowledged with a sigh.

For centuries he had lived the life of a monk as he had protected the Anasso, the leader of all vampires. He had been an enforcer and guardian, rarely leaving the ancient vampire's side.

With the Anasso now dead he was being forced into the role of leader, and he was discovering that he could hide no longer. Not when there was one trouble after another plaguing him.

It was enough to annoy the most patient of demons.

“I am always delighted to have you as my guest, Styx, but, I must warn you that my clan is nervous enough having you among us,” Viper drawled. “If you don't stop scowling at me, they are bound to fear they will soon be without a clan chief.”

Realizing he had allowed his attention to wander, Styx abruptly straightened in the plush leather chair. By instinct his hand lifted to touch the bone medallion tied around his neck.

It was a symbol of his people.

More than that, it was believed to be a means of passing spirits from one generation to another.

Of course, as a vampire Styx had no tangible memories of his life before rising as a demon. That didn't, however, keep him from holding on to at least a few of his more sacred traditions.

“I am not scowling.”

Viper smiled wryly. “You forget, Styx, I have a mate, which means that I am intimately acquainted with every variety of scowl. And you, my friend, are most certainly scowling.” The smile faded as the vampire regarded him with an expression of shrewd intelligence. “Why do you not tell me what is troubling you?”

Styx paused before heaving a faint sigh. He had to do this. Even if he would rather be flogged, flayed, and defanged as to admit he needed help.

As clan chief for the territory, Viper was more familiar with Chicago than any other demon of his acquaintance. It would be beyond foolish not to accept his assistance.

“It's the Weres,” he said abruptly.

“Weres?” Viper gave a low hiss. Like Cub and Cardinal fans, there was little love lost between vamps and the jackals. “What trouble are they brewing?”

“It has gone beyond mere trouble. They have left their recognized hunting grounds, and I have tracked at least a part of the pack to Chicago.” Styx clenched his fists in his lap. “They have already killed several humans, and left them to be discovered by the authorities.”

Viper didn't so much as flinch. Of course it would take more than a pack of Weres to rattle the powerful vampire.

“There have been rumors of wild dogs roaming the alleys of Chicago. I did wonder if it might be the Weres.”

“They have a new leader. A young Were named Salvatore Giuliani from Rome. A purebred who is far too ambitious for his own good.”

“Have you tried to reason with him?”

Styx narrowed his gaze. Whether he wanted the position or not, he was now leader of the vampires. Which meant that the world of demons bowed to his commands. Including the Weres.

So far, however, the newest pack-master had treated his duty to Styx with nothing more than disdain.

A mistake he would soon learn to regret.

“He refuses to meet with me.” Styx's tone was as cold as his expression. “He claims that the Weres will no longer be subservient to other demons, and that any treaties that were made in the past are now void.”

Viper lifted his brows, no doubt wondering why Styx hadn't already executed the beast.

“He's either very brave or very stupid.”

“Very stupid. I have called for a meeting of the Commission, but it could take days if not weeks before they can be gathered in one place.” Styx referred to the council that settled disputes between the various demon races. It was made up of ancient oracles that rarely left their hidden lairs. Unfortunately, they were the only legal means of passing judgment upon the king or leader of another race without retaliation. “In the meantime, the reckless actions of the Weres threaten us all.”

“My clan stands ready to offer assistance.” A smile of anticipation touched Viper's lips. “If you want this Salvatore dead I'm sure it can be arranged.”

Styx could think of few things that would please him more than to order the death of Salvatore Giuliani. Unless it was sinking his own fangs into the mangy dog's throat.

There were times when being a responsible leader was a bitch.

“A tempting offer, but unfortunately the Weres are uncommonly devoted to this man. If he were to suddenly die, I don't doubt that the vampires would be held to blame. I hope to avoid all out warfare for now.”

Viper gave a small bow of his head. Whatever his own desires, he would concede to Styx's authority.

“You have a plan?”

“Hardly a plan, but I do hope that I might have discovered a bit of leverage over Salvatore.” He pulled a small photo from his pocket and handed it to his companion.

For a moment Viper studied the small, delicate woman in the photo. With her short, spiky blond hair and green eyes far too large for her heart-shaped face she looked like a beautiful urchin.

“Not my type, but certainly eye-catching.” He glanced up. “Is she his lover?”

“No, but Salvatore has spent a considerable amount of money and energy in tracking this woman. I believe he has at last discovered her here in Chicago.”

“What does he want with her?”

Styx shrugged. The vampires he had commanded to keep track of the unpredictable Were had managed to get their hands on the photo, as well as to follow Salvatore to Chicago. They couldn't, however, get close enough to discover the reasoning behind the man's obsession with the woman.

“I don't have the least idea, but she's obviously very important to him. Important enough that he might be willing to negotiate for her return…if I am able to capture her first.”

A hint of surprise touched the pale face. “You intend to kidnap her?”

“I intend to keep her as my guest until the Weres can be made to see reason,” he corrected, his entire body stiffening as Viper tilted back his head to laugh with rich enjoyment. “What is so amusing?”

Viper pointed at the picture in his hand. “Have you taken a good look at this woman?”

“Of course.” Styx frowned. “It was necessary to memorize her features in the event the picture was lost or destroyed.”

“And yet you will willingly take her beneath your roof?”

“Is there some reason I should not?” he demanded.

“The obvious reasons.”

Styx battled a flare of impatience. If Viper had information about the woman, why did he not just speak it instead of behaving in such a mysterious manner?

“You speak in riddles, old friend. Do you believe the woman might pose some sort of danger?”

Viper held up his hands. “Only in the manner any beautiful woman poses a danger.”

Styx narrowed his gaze. By the gods. Did Viper believe he was susceptible to the lures of a mere female? A mortal one at that?

If he wished a woman, he had only to glance over the balcony. The nightclub was filled with females, and more than a few males, who had made their interest flamboyantly clear since he had walked through the door.

“The woman will be my hostage, nothing more,” he said coldly.

“Of course.”

Sensing Viper's lingering amusement Styx impatiently pointed toward the picture. It was, after all, the reason he had come here in the first place.

“Do you know the location of the establishment she is standing in front of?”

“It's familiar.” Pausing a moment Viper gave a nod of his head. “Yes. It's a Goth bar. I'd say four, no wait…five, blocks south of here.”

“I thank you, old friend.” Styx was swiftly on his feet. He reached out to take the picture and returned it to his pocket.

Viper pressed himself to his feet and placed a restraining hand on Styx's arm.

“Wait, Styx.”

He swallowed back his surge of impatience. He didn't have time to linger. The sooner he captured the woman, the sooner he would know if she were indeed of importance to the Weres.

“What is it?”

“What are you going to do?”

“I told you. I intend to take the woman.”

“Just like that?” Viper demanded.

Styx frowned in confusion. “Yes.”

“You cannot go alone. If the Weres are keeping watch they are sure to try and stop you.”

“I do not fear a pack of dogs,” Styx retorted in scornful tones.

Viper refused to relent. “Styx.”

Styx heaved a sigh. “I will have my Ravens near,” he promised, referring to the five vampires who had been his constant companions for centuries. They were as much a part of him as his own shadow.

The silver-haired vampire was still not satisfied. “And where will you take her?”

“To my lair.”

“Good God.” Viper gave a sharp laugh. “You can't take that poor woman to those damp, disgusting caves.”

Styx frowned. In truth he hadn't really considered the less than welcoming atmosphere of the caves he inhabited.

To him they were simply a place to remain safely out of the sun.

“Most of the caves are quite comfortable.”

“It's bad enough that you're taking the woman hostage. At least take her someplace that has a decent bed and a few amenities.”

“What does it matter? She is nothing more than a human.”

“It matters because she is a
human
. Christ, they are more fragile than dew fairies.” With swift, gliding steps Viper moved toward the desk that consumed a large part of his office behind the balcony. He reached into a drawer and pulled out a sheet of paper. After scribbling a few lines he dug his hand into his pocket and pulled out a small key. Returning to Styx he placed both in his hands. “Here.”

“What is this?” Styx demanded.

“A key to my estate north of the city. It's quiet and isolated enough for your purpose, but far more pleasant than your lair.” He pointed to the paper. “Those are the directions. I'll alert Santiago and the rest of my staff to expect you.”

Styx opened his mouth to protest. Perhaps his lair was not the most elegant or luxurious of places, but it was well protected and more importantly he was familiar with the surrounding landscape.

Still, he supposed there was something to be said for providing a bit of comfort for the woman. As Viper had pointed out, humans were tediously fragile and prone to a puzzling array of illnesses and injury. He needed her alive if she were to be of any worth.